Best Charcoal Grills of 2025

Bryan Hicks Avatar
Bryan Hicks
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Charcoal grills are a classic and popular option for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. They offer a smoky and authentic flavor that cannot be replicated by gas grills. Charcoal grills come in a variety of sizes and styles, from portable models perfect for camping or tailgating to larger models for backyard barbecues. They are easy to use and require only a bag of charcoal and some lighter fluid to get started. Charcoal grills also give users the ability to control the temperature by adjusting the amount of charcoal used and the placement of the grill grates.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker Cover #TOP 1
Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill Cover #TOP 2
Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch Cover #TOP 3
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Charcoal Grills

Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker

CC1830S
Black
Grill
Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker Cover
Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker | 811 Square Inch cooking surface, Outdoor for Camping | Black

The Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker is perfect for outdoor camping. It offers an 811 square inch cooking surface, which includes 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 184 sq. in. chrome-plated warming rack and 184 sq. in. offset smoker. The offset smoker is securely attached to the grill, ensuring good circulation of heat and smoke. The adjustable pan offers 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan for better heat control, while the lid-mounted thermometer gauge helps check and monitor the cooking temperature. With front and side tables, and a bottom shelf for extra storage space, this grill offers ample workspace for seasonings and grilling tools.

What We Like
Great price for the quality
Easy to assemble
Versatile for grilling and smoking
Good for beginners
Attractive design for backyard
What We Don't Like
Thin material may not last
Assembly can be time-consuming
#TOP 2

Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill

CC1830
Black
Grill
Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill Cover
Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side Table, Outdoor BBQ Grill with 627 Sq. In. Cooking Space for Backyard, Patio and Parties, Black

The Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill is a great option for outdoor cooking. With 627 square inches of smoking space, you can cook a lot of food at once. The height-adjustable fire pan can hold up to 6 lbs of coal, giving you more control over the heat. The side air vent can be closed to help extinguish coals and the smoke stack can be adjusted for extra heat control. The lid-mounted thermometer gauge helps you check heat fluctuations for confident grilling. Cleaning up is also a breeze thanks to the removable charcoal pan. Overall, the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill is a versatile and practical choice for your backyard, patio, and parties.

What We Like
Large cooking space
Sturdy construction
Easy to clean
Sleek appearance
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Assembly can be tricky
Durability over time uncertain
#TOP 3

Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch

14401001
Black
22 inch
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch Cover
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black

The Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill is designed to cook up to 13 burgers at a time, and comes with a built-in lid thermometer and rust-resistant aluminum dampers. The One-Touch cleaning system with high-capacity ash catcher provides hassle-free ash cleanup, while the porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat and won't rust or peel. Additionally, this grill features a hinged cooking grate for easily adding charcoal while grilling, and a lid hook to avoid placing the lid on the ground.

What We Like
Easy assembly
Excellent heat control
Great for smoking
Durable construction
Affordable entry cost
What We Don't Like
Wheels may require adjustment
Third-party shelf design issues
#TOP 4

Weber Jumbo Joe 22" Grill

1321001
Black
Weber Jumbo Joe 22" Grill Cover
Weber Jumbo Joe Premium 22" Charcoal Grill

The Weber Jumbo Joe Grill offers a large cooking area that can accommodate up to 13 burgers at once, making it perfect for gatherings. Its durable porcelain-enameled lid and bowl help retain heat, ensuring your food cooks evenly while resisting rust and peeling. You’ll appreciate the convenient lid hook, which keeps the lid off the ground while you grill, preventing messes. Plus, the adjustable dampers allow you to easily manage the internal temperature for optimal cooking results. With these features, grilling becomes a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.

What We Like
Excellent flavor enhancement
Easy assembly process
Spacious cooking area
Sturdy construction
Long-lasting quality
What We Don't Like
Potential wobbliness noted
Legs may not endure harsh winters

Royal Gourmet CD1824G

CD1824G
Black
Royal Gourmet CD1824G Cover
Royal Gourmet CD1824G 24 Inch Charcoal Grill with Foldable Side Table, Outdoor BBQ Grill with 490 Sq. In. Cooking Area for Picnic and Camping Grilling, Black

The Royal Gourmet CD1824G Charcoal Grill is a heavy-duty BBQ grill that is perfect for outdoor picnics, patio gardens, and backyard grilling. With a spacious cooking area of 490 square inches, it provides plenty of room for all your grilling needs. The porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates and stainless steel warming rack are not only durable but also easy to clean. The height-adjustable charcoal pan allows you to regulate the temperature from high to low, ensuring better heat control. The convenient charcoal door with a spring handle makes it easy to add charcoal during cooking without losing heat. The adjustable air damper and stack provide excellent air circulation, resulting in sufficient burning of charcoal. Additionally, the foldable side table offers extra workspace for seasonings and grilling tools, while the bottom shelf provides additional storage space. The Royal Gourmet CD1824G Charcoal Grill is a versatile and convenient option for all your grilling needs.

What We Like
Easy to assemble
Great value for price
Good performance
Perfect size for decks
High quality materials
What We Don't Like
Assembly instructions unclear
Adjustable grill may not function well

Char-Griller E16620 Kamado Charcoal Grill

E16620
Graphite
Standard
Char-Griller E16620 Kamado Charcoal Grill Cover
Char-Griller® AKORN® Kamado Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cast Iron Grates, Warming Rack and Locking Lid with 445 Cooking Square Inches in Graphite, Model E16620

The Char-Griller E16620 Kamado Charcoal Grill is perfect for those who love high heat grilling and low and slow cooking. It has a large cooking area of 447 square inches and a 20-inch diameter that can cook up to 27 burgers at once. It has triple-walled steel insulated design, cast iron grates, and foldable side shelf workstations with BBQ tool storage hooks. The indexed adjustable dual dampers and thermometer make it easy to control the heat levels, while the removable Easy Dump Ash Pan makes cleaning up after grilling a breeze.

What We Like
Durable construction
Great temperature control
Easy assembly
Affordable price
Versatile cooking options
What We Don't Like
Inaccurate thermometer
Potential rust issues
#TOP 7

Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill

741001BLK
Black
Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill Cover
Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill

The Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill is built to last with its ultra-durable, porcelain-enameled lid and bowl that retain heat and won't rust or peel. The dampers allow for precise temperature control, and the One-Touch cleaning system makes ash cleanup hassle-free. With a capacity to hold up to 13 burgers, you can grill for the whole family. Plus, the lid hook provides convenience by avoiding placing the lid on the ground while grilling. Assembly is made easy with the 3D interactive instructions available through the free BILT app.

What We Like
Excellent heat control
Versatile cooking methods
Durable construction
Great taste from charcoal
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Setup may require some effort
Height might be inconvenient for some
#TOP 8

Royal Gourmet 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill

CC1830V
Black
Grill
Royal Gourmet 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill Cover
Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Wood-Painted Side Front Table, 627 Square Inches Cooking Space, for Outdoor Backyard, Patio and Parties, Black

The Royal Gourmet 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill offers 627 square inches of cooking space with porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates and chrome-plated steel wire warming rack. The side air vent can be closed to cut off oxygen flow and adjust the smoke stack for extra heat control. The adjustable fire grates offer two different heights to control the distance between charcoal and food, while the lid-mounted gauge helps to monitor the inner temperature. The fire grate is easy to dump, allowing for quick and mess-free cleanup after cooking.

What We Like
Easy assembly
Great size for families
Sturdy construction
Good craftsmanship
Excellent value for price
What We Don't Like
Wood shelves may rot
Built-in thermometer inaccuracies
#TOP 9

Royal Gourmet CC1830W Charcoal Grill

CC1830W
Black
Grill
Royal Gourmet CC1830W Charcoal Grill Cover
Royal Gourmet CC1830W 30-Inch Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker and Wood-Painted Side Table, Outdoor Smoker Grill with 811 Sq. In. Cooking Area for Outdoor Barbecue Event, Black

The Royal Gourmet Grill offers an impressive cooking area with porcelain-enameled grates and a warming rack, making it easy for you to prepare meals for family and friends. The offset smoker adds a unique smoky flavor to your dishes, perfect for outdoor gatherings. You can also adjust the height of the charcoal pan, allowing for better heat control and efficient cooking. Plus, the wood-painted tables provide ample prep space, so you can keep your grilling essentials within reach while you cook.

What We Like
Easy assembly
Large cooking space
Sturdy construction
Good price-to-quality ratio
Effective heat retention
What We Don't Like
Some parts may warp
Occasional quality issues
#TOP 10

Royal Gourmet CD2030AN 30-Inch Charcoal Grill

CD2030AN
Black
Grill
Royal Gourmet CD2030AN 30-Inch Charcoal Grill Cover
Royal Gourmet CD2030AN 30-Inch Charcoal Grill, Deluxe BBQ Smoker Picnic Camping Patio Backyard Cooking, Black, Large

The Royal Gourmet CD2030AN 30-Inch Charcoal Grill is perfect for big parties or events with its 764 square inches cooking area. The height-adjustable charcoal pan with an easy-to-handle crank handle fine-tunes the temperature control and cooks food efficiently. The front charcoal door access allows you to tend charcoal without opening the upper lid to ensure minimum heat loss. You can slide the side damper open and raise or lower the temperature with the use of lid-mounted stack which delivers increased heat control. The lid-mounted temperature gauge indicates temperature change instantly.

What We Like
Large cooking space
Easy food cooking
Good price for value
Adjustable coal tray
Versatile grilling options
What We Don't Like
Assembly can be tricky
Quality control issues noted
Buying Guide Image

The Complete Guide to Buying Charcoal Grills

Introduction

Are you in the market for a new charcoal grill? There are many factors to consider when choosing the right grill for your outdoor cooking needs. In this article, we will discuss some of the key points to keep in mind when selecting a charcoal grill.

Size and Capacity

One of the first things to consider when choosing a charcoal grill is its size and capacity. If you are planning on cooking for a large group of people, you will need a larger grill with more cooking space. On the other hand, if you are only planning on cooking for a small group or just yourself, a smaller grill may be sufficient.

Type of Grill

Another important factor to consider is the type of grill you want. There are two main types of charcoal grills: kettle grills and barrel grills. Kettle grills are round and have a dome-shaped lid, whereas barrel grills are rectangular and have a flat lid. Both types of grills have their own unique features and benefits, so it's important to consider which type will best suit your needs.

Material and Construction

The material and construction of a charcoal grill are also important factors to consider. Grills are typically made of either steel or cast iron. Steel grills are lightweight and easy to move, but they may not be as durable as cast iron grills. Cast iron grills are heavier and more durable, but they may be more difficult to move and require more maintenance.

Features and Accessories

When choosing a charcoal grill, it's also important to consider the features and accessories it comes with. Some grills come with features such as built-in thermometers, ash catchers, and side tables, which can make grilling more convenient and efficient. It's also worth looking for grills that come with accessories such as grilling tools and covers, which can help protect your grill and make it last longer.

Price and Brand

Lastly, consider the price and brand of the grill you are considering. There are many different brands and price points to choose from, so it's important to find a grill that fits your budget and meets your needs. It's also worth researching the reputation and customer satisfaction of the brand you are considering, to ensure that you are buying a high-quality product that will last.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right charcoal grill requires careful consideration of several factors, including size and capacity, type, material and construction, features and accessories, price and brand. By taking the time to carefully research and compare your options, you can find the perfect grill for your outdoor cooking needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is charcoal BBQ better than propane?

Charcoal BBQs have the advantage of getting much hotter, much faster, which is ideal for achieving a perfect sear on steaks or grilled veggies. Unless you have a gas grill with infrared burners, charcoal BBQs are generally preferred for their ability to provide a more direct and intense heat to the food.

2. Are wood chips or chunks better for charcoal grilling?

Both wood chips and chunks work well for charcoal grilling. The main difference is that chips burn faster, making them suitable for adding a light smoke over a shorter period. If you plan to smoke your food for an hour or more, using chunks might be more convenient as they burn slower.

3. What burns better charcoal or briquettes?

Charcoal burns hotter and adds more flavor to your food, making it a popular choice for grilling. Briquettes, on the other hand, are great for producing long-lasting heat. While they can be used for searing, they may not infuse as much flavor into your dish compared to charcoal.

4. What are the pros and cons of a charcoal grill?

Some pros of a charcoal grill include infusing lots of flavor into food, grilling at higher temperatures, lower cost, and smaller size. However, charcoal grills have some cons as well, such as messier clean up, higher risk of fire, and longer heating time.

5. Why do people prefer propane over charcoal?

Propane grills are preferred by some due to their ease of starting up and heating up within minutes. They offer direct, high heat, which is desirable for achieving a darker, all-over sear on food, particularly steaks.

6. Is black or stainless steel better for a grill?

Stainless steel is generally considered better for a grill, as it has a higher chance of withstanding corrosion and rust caused by the fat, moisture, and other elements present during grilling. Stainless steel is more resistant to air-born corrosive attacks from salt and chemicals, making it a durable option for outdoor grills.

Editor's Notes

During our charcoal grill research, we found 24 charcoal grill products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 114,256 customer reviews through our big data system to write the charcoal grills list. We found that most customers choose charcoal grills with an average price of $206.58.

The charcoal grills are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of charcoal grills, including Royal Gourmet, Weber, Char-Griller. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bryan Hicks Avatar

Bryan Hicks is a professional gardener and a writer who lives in North Texas with his family and his dog. Bryan has spent more than half of his life surrounded by garden products. He has extensive experience in garden makeovers and maintenance and lawn care. His areas of expertise include outdoor decoration, gardening and garden design.

Charcoal Grills Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Royal Gourmet Royal Gourmet Weber Weber Royal Gourmet Char-Griller Weber Royal Gourmet Royal Gourmet Royal Gourmet
Color Black Black Black Black Black Graphite Black Black Black Black
Fuel Type Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal Charcoal
Special Feature - One Side Table, Adjustable Fire Grates, Built-In Thermometer, Tool Holder, Warming Rack Superior Heat Retention, One-Touch Cleaning System, Lid Thermometer, Hinged Cooking Grate, Heat Shield Superior Heat Retention Built-In Thermometer, Folding Side Table, Removable Grease Tray, Warming Rack Warming Rack Precise Heat Control, Superior Heat Retention, One-Touch Cleaning System, Heat Shield, Durable Cooking Grate Adjustable Fire Grates, Tool Holder, Equipped with Front Table, Equipped with Side Table, Warming Rack Built-In Thermometer, Tool Holder, Wood-Painted Side Table, Warming Rack, Wood-Painted Front Table -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
Where to Buy