If you’re looking for the best charcoal grill, you may want to take into consideration a few factors before making your purchase. First and foremost, you’ll want to determine the size and features that will best suit your needs. Charcoal grills come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small tabletop models to large outdoor units. Additionally, you’ll want to consider the type of cooking surface, the quality of materials used, and the ease of cleaning and maintenance.
When shopping for a new charcoal grill, it’s important to read consumer reports to get a sense of the features, pros, and cons of various models. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to make a decision. Consumer reports offer unbiased information that can help you compare and select the best grill for your particular needs.
Some questions you may have when considering a charcoal grill might include: What are the most popular brands? What features should I look for? What is the best size for my needs? How do I clean and maintain a charcoal grill? Is it worth the investment? By researching and understanding the features and benefits of different models, you can find the best charcoal grill for your outdoor cooking needs.
10 Best Charcoal Grill Consumer Reports
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The product is ideal for outdoor grilling, cooking with charcoal, and portable use.
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The product is ideal for outdoor cooking and grilling with a large cooking surface area and a protective cover.
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Ideal for outdoor grilling and smoking, with a large cooking area and included cover for camping or backyard use.
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Ideal for outdoor cooking and charcoal grilling with a barrel style design.
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Ideal for outdoor grilling and cooking with charcoal, perfect for small spaces or on-the-go cooking.
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Ideal for outdoor cooking, camping, backyard grilling, tailgating, and producing smoky flavors with charcoal.
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This product is ideal for outdoor cooking and grilling with its large cooking area and charcoal fuel source.
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Ideal for outdoor cooking at events such as tailgating, beach trips, camping, and on patios with its compact, portable design.
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Ideal for grilling and smoking food with charcoal, creating rich flavors and even cooking temperatures.
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Ideal for outdoor cooking and camping with a 811 square inch cooking surface, charcoal grill, and offset smoker.
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1. Oklahoma Joe's 19402088 Rambler Portable Charcoal Grill, Black
The product being reviewed is a high-quality grill that is built to last. It is constructed from heavy-duty steel, making it a durable and reliable option for any grilling enthusiast. The thick cast-iron grates produce a perfect sear on your meats and vegetables, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection every time.
One of the standout features of this grill is its height-adjustable charcoal tray. This allows you to grill with high heat when you need to get a quick sear on your food, or you can cook low and slow for those dishes that require a longer cooking time. The large air dampers on the grill allow for accurate airflow control, giving you the perfect amount of heat for your cooking needs.
When it comes to cleaning up after your grilling session, this grill makes it easy. It comes equipped with a full-size, removable ash pan that makes it simple to dispose of any ash or debris. This means that you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up afterwards.
2. Royal Gourmet Cd1824ec 24-Inch Charcoal Bbq Grill With Cover, Black
This grill offers a generous total cooking area of 474 square inches, making it perfect for hosting large gatherings and family barbecues. The cooking area includes 368 square inches of porcelain-enameled cooking grates and an additional 106 square inches of stainless-steel warming rack, providing ample space to cook and keep food warm.
One of the standout features of this grill is its height-adjustable charcoal pan. This innovative design allows for precise temperature control during grilling, ensuring that food is cooked to perfection every time. Whether you're grilling hamburgers or slow-roasting a brisket, this grill can handle it all with ease.
Another great feature of this grill is its easy-to-use design. The charcoal access door at the front of the grill allows for quick and easy coal replenishment during cooking, while the galvanized draw-out ash tray makes cleaning up a breeze. Plus, with two folding side tables and a bottom shelf for storage, there's plenty of space for preparation and organization.
When it comes to portability, this grill is a real winner. Its two large wheels make it easy to move around, and its durable construction ensures that it can withstand the elements. Plus, with a free cover included in the delivery, you can protect your grill from rain, wind, and other environmental factors when it's not in use.
3. Royal Gourmet Ultimate Outdoor Smoker Grill
The 811 Square Inches grill is a must-have for any grill enthusiast. With a total of 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 184 sq. in. chrome-plated warming rack, and 184 sq. in. offset smoker, this grill provides ample space to cook your favorite dishes for any event.
The offset smoker is firmly attached to the grill to ensure good circulation of heat and smoke, allowing you to achieve those tasty smoke flavors that you crave. The easy-to-open side door makes it convenient to add charcoal and remove ashes, while the air vent stokes the fire instantly, making it easy to maintain the perfect temperature for your cooking needs.
The 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan creates better heat control and holds up to 4.4 lbs. of coal, making it perfect for long cooking sessions. The lid-mounted thermometer gauge helps check and monitor the cooking temperature, ensuring that you can cook with great confidence.
The grill features front and side tables that offer workspace for seasonings and grilling tools, allowing you to have everything you need within reach while cooking. Additionally, the bottom shelf provides extra storage space and can hold up to 20 lb. of accessories when they are evenly distributed.
4. King-Griller Gambler Barrel Style Charcoal Grill
Introducing the Charcoal BBQ Grill, the perfect grilling solution for those with small decks, backyards, and patios. With its heavy-duty steel construction and powder coating finish, this outdoor grill is built to last and can withstand the elements, making it a long-lasting investment for any grilling enthusiast.
This grill boasts a large grilling area of 315 square inches, providing ample space to cook up your favorite meals and achieve that signature charcoal flavor that is hard to replicate with other types of grills. The thick cast iron grill grates ensure even heat distribution and provide perfect sear marks on your food.
In addition to its impressive grilling capabilities, this barbecue grill comes equipped with a range of features to make your grilling experience even more enjoyable. The bottom storage rack provides a convenient place to store charcoal, while the heavy-duty steel construction ensures durability and stability during use. The side air vents allow for precise temperature control, while the heat gauge helps you monitor the grill's internal temperature. The wheels on this grill make it easy to move around your outdoor space, and the side shelf workstation with BBQ tool storage hooks provides ample space for food prep and grilling accessories.
Not only is this grill functional and efficient, but it is also easy to assemble and clean. With its simple assembly process, you can have your new grill up and running in no time, while the easy-to-clean design ensures that you can quickly clean up after grilling and get back to enjoying your outdoor space.
Measuring at 24”L x 35”W x 41”H and weighing 45 lbs, this charcoal BBQ grill is the perfect size for small outdoor spaces and pairs perfectly with the Char-Griller Charcoal Chimney Starter. Invest in the Charcoal BBQ Grill and enjoy delicious, perfectly grilled meals all summer long.
5. Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill, Black
The portable Weber burger grill is perfect for those who love to grill on-the-go without sacrificing taste or quality. With the ability to hold up to six burgers made with a Weber burger press, you can easily satisfy you and your friends' cravings. The compact and lightweight design allows for easy transportation to your desired location.
The porcelain-enameled lid and base of the grill retain heat, ensuring that your food cooks evenly, while being resistant to rust and peeling. The lid locks securely, making it easy to transport the grill wherever you go. The dampers located on the lid allow for easy control of the temperature inside the grill, giving you the ability to cook your food to perfection.
The durable plated steel cooking grate not only retains heat, but it is also easy to clean, making maintenance a breeze. With a primary cooking area of 160 square inches, you can easily cook for a small group of people.
6. Ultimate Outdoor Grill: Megamaster 18" Charcoal Kettle
The Porcelain Enamel Firebox is a fantastic addition to any outdoor cooking setup. With a total cooking space of 245 square inches, this firebox is perfect for grilling up tasty meals for a small gathering of friends or family. The safe and durable steel wire cooking grid ensures that your food is cooked to perfection, while the strong steel frame provides a sturdy foundation for the firebox.
The heat-resistant and rust-resistant coating finish on the steel frame ensures that this firebox will withstand the test of time and the elements, making it a reliable and long-lasting investment for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
The removable ash catcher makes cleaning up after a cookout a breeze, while the storage rack provides additional space for storing cooking utensils and other accessories. With the Porcelain Enamel Firebox, you can grill up delicious meals with ease and enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest.
7. Char-Griller 2137 Outlaw Charcoal Grill, 950 Square Inch, Black
Introducing the Premium Charcoal Grill, a barrel-style BBQ grill and smoker designed for high heat grilling and low and slow smoking. With its heavy-duty steel construction and powder coating finish, this grill is built to last and withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking.
The XXL cooking area of the Premium Charcoal Grill boasts a massive 950 square inches of total cooking space, capable of fitting up to 38 burgers at once. The primary cooking area spans 725 square inches, with an additional 225 square inch warming rack for added convenience.
This barbecue grill is packed with features to enhance your grilling experience, including cast iron cooking grates, an adjustable fire grate, a bottom storage shelf, a warming rack, stay cool wooden handles, wheels for easy mobility, and front and side shelves with barbecue grill tool storage hooks.
Controlling the heat levels of the Premium Charcoal Grill is a breeze thanks to the dual dampers and thermometer, allowing you to cook your food to perfection every time. Cleaning up after a delicious meal is just as easy with the Easy Dump Ash Pan.
Measuring 29”L x 49”W x 50”H and weighing 114 lbs, the Premium Charcoal Grill pairs perfectly with the Char-Griller 3737 Charcoal Grill Cover and Char-Griller E82424 Smoker Side Fire Box, both sold separately.
Invest in the Premium Charcoal Grill for a top-notch grilling and smoking experience that will impress your family and friends.
8. Portable Matte Black Bbq Grill With Prep Tray
The Portable and Compact Cube Charcoal BBQ Grill is a versatile and easy-to-use camp stove that is perfect for outdoor grilling. Made with lightweight steel and cool to touch handles, this grill is highly transportable, making it ideal for use with family and friends as a tailgate grill or for taking to the beach as your portable BBQ.
The Cube BBQ Grill can be used on any heat-resistant surface, making it perfect for tailgating, RVing, or traveling. It has an integrated base that protects your grilling surface and acts as a heat guard, making it the perfect tabletop charcoal grill.
The all-in-one design of this charcoal BBQ grill includes an integrated storage tray for accessories or food, as well as a bamboo cutting board to prepare meat, fish, veggies, and more. Two safety latches fasten all of these items into one small portable grill.
Cleaning the Cube Charcoal BBQ Grill is a breeze, thanks to the charcoal tray, firebox, and removable grill rack. There is no need for gas or propane with this portable camping charcoal grill, as it is designed with high-quality construction intended for lifetime use.
Despite its compact size, this mini grill has 115 sq. inches of grilling surface, providing ample space for cooking. You can easily grill up to 6 small burgers or 3 medium steaks on the Cube portable stove. This charcoal BBQ grill measures 9.05 H x 13.67 D x 16.73 W, making it the perfect size for any outdoor adventure.
9. Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill, Graphite
The Kamado Charcoal Grill is a versatile BBQ grill and smoker that provides an exceptional cooking experience for both high heat grilling and low and slow cooking. It features a large cooking area with a 20-inch diameter and a total cooking area of 447 square inches, which can cook up to 27 burgers at once.
This grill is designed with best-in-class features, including a triple-walled steel insulated design that ensures consistent cooking temperatures, even in extreme weather conditions. It also features cast iron grates that provide excellent heat retention and create beautiful sear marks on your food.
The Kamado Charcoal Grill is equipped with a locking lid that helps to retain heat and moisture, ensuring that your food stays tender and juicy. Additionally, it has 8" locking caster wheels that make it easy to move around your backyard or patio, as well as a removable warming rack, bottom storage shelf, and foldable side shelf workstations with BBQ tool storage hooks.
Controlling the heat levels with the Kamado Charcoal Grill is easy, thanks to the indexed adjustable dual dampers and thermometer. This feature enables you to maintain precise temperature control for perfect results every time. Cleaning up after grilling is also a breeze, thanks to the removable easy dump ash pan.
The Kamado Charcoal Grill is 31”L x 45”W x 47”H, and it weighs 97 lbs. To protect your grill from the elements, we recommend pairing it with the Char-Griller 6755 AKORN Grill Cover and 6201 AKORN Smokin' Stone, both sold separately.
10. Royal Gourmet Bbq Smoker: Ultimate Outdoor Cooking Station
The 811 Square Inches grill is a versatile cooking machine that offers ample space to cook delicious meals for your family and friends. With a total cooking area of 811 square inches, it includes 443 square inches of porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 184 square inches of chrome-plated warming rack, and 184 square inches of offset smoker.
The offset smoker is firmly attached to the grill to ensure good circulation of heat and smoke, allowing you to create tasty smoke flavors. It also features an easy to open side door to add charcoal and remove ashes while the air vent stokes fire instantly. This makes it easy to control the temperature and maintain the perfect heat for your cooking needs.
The 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan creates better heat control and can hold up to 4.4 lbs. of coal. This feature is perfect for those who want to cook their food at a specific temperature, and it also makes it easy to adjust the heat for different cooking styles.
The lid-mounted thermometer gauge is a great addition to this grill, which helps to check and monitor the cooking temperature. It allows you to cook with great confidence, knowing that your food is being cooked at the right temperature.
This grill also has ample space for prepping and storing your grilling tools and seasonings. The front and side tables offer workspace for seasonings and grilling tools, while the bottom shelf provides extra storage space. It can hold up to 20 lb. accessories when they are evenly distributed.
Best Charcoal Grill Consumer Reports FAQs
Are there any charcoal grills that are easy to clean and maintain?
Yes, there are plenty of charcoal grills that are easy to clean and maintain. One popular option is the Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill. It features a one-touch cleaning system that makes it easy to remove ash and debris from the grill. Additionally, the cooking grate is made of plated steel, which resists rust and is easy to clean. Another option is the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill. It has a porcelain-coated steel interior, which makes cleaning up grease and other residue a breeze. Additionally, the ash pan is removable, making it easy to dispose of ash and debris. Finally, the Dyna-Glo Charcoal Grill is also easy to clean and maintain. It features a removable ash pan that makes cleaning up ash and debris a breeze, while the porcelain-enameled cooking grates are rust-resistant and easy to clean. Overall, there are plenty of options when it comes to charcoal grills that are easy to clean and maintain.
Are there any safety concerns I should consider when using a charcoal grill?
Yes, there are several safety concerns to consider when using a charcoal grill. Firstly, it is important to keep the grill away from any flammable materials, such as trees, dry grass, or buildings. Secondly, never leave the grill unattended while it is burning, as this can lead to fires or other accidents. Additionally, it is important to use the correct amount of lighter fluid when starting the grill, as using too much can cause flare-ups and potentially dangerous situations. It is also recommended to wear protective gloves and use long-handled grilling tools to avoid burns. Finally, make sure to properly extinguish the coals when done grilling, as they can remain hot for several hours and pose a fire hazard. By following these safety precautions, you can enjoy grilling with your charcoal grill while minimizing any potential risks.
Can I use a charcoal grill for smoking meats and vegetables?
Yes, you can definitely use a charcoal grill for smoking meats and vegetables. In fact, many grill enthusiasts prefer using a charcoal grill for smoking due to the smoky flavor it imparts to the food. To smoke on a charcoal grill, you will need to set up a two-zone fire by placing the charcoal on one side of the grill and leaving the other side empty. This will create a direct heat zone and an indirect heat zone, which is where you will place your food for smoking.
To get started, soak some wood chips in water for at least an hour, and then drain them. Add the wood chips to the charcoal, and wait until the grill reaches a temperature between 225°F to 250°F. Once the grill is ready, place your meat or vegetables on the indirect heat side of the grill and close the lid. You can also use a smoker box to add more smoke to the grill.
It's important to monitor the temperature of the grill and the food throughout the smoking process to ensure that everything is cooking properly. With a little practice, you can achieve delicious smoky flavors on your charcoal grill.
How does a charcoal grill compare to a gas grill in terms of flavor and performance?
When it comes to grilling, the choice between a charcoal grill and a gas grill is a matter of personal preference. Charcoal grills are known for their smoky flavor that comes from the burning charcoal and wood chips. The flavor is much stronger and authentic than what you get from gas grills. Charcoal grills are also good for searing meat and vegetables, as they get hotter than gas grills, making them perfect for creating a nice crust on steaks and burgers.
On the other hand, gas grills are more convenient and easier to use than charcoal grills. They heat up quickly and are ready to cook in just a few minutes. Gas grills are also easier to control the temperature, which makes them ideal for cooking delicate foods like fish and vegetables. They are also easier to clean and maintain than charcoal grills.
In terms of performance, both types of grills have their advantages and disadvantages. Charcoal grills are great for cooking large cuts of meat and can reach high temperatures quickly. Gas grills, on the other hand, are more versatile and can be used for a wider range of cooking styles, from grilling to baking and roasting.
Ultimately, the decision between a charcoal grill and a gas grill comes down to personal preference. If you value flavor and authenticity, a charcoal grill is the way to go. If you value convenience and ease of use, a gas grill may be the better option.
How long does it take to heat up a charcoal grill and start cooking?
The time it takes to heat up a charcoal grill and start cooking depends on various factors such as the amount of charcoal used, the size of the grill, and weather conditions. Typically, it takes around 20-30 minutes for the charcoal to reach the ideal cooking temperature after lighting it up. However, it's important to note that the charcoal needs to be properly lit and spread out evenly before placing the food on the grill.
To speed up the process, you can use a chimney starter to light the charcoal, which can cut down the time by a few minutes. Additionally, if you're cooking in colder weather or in a windy environment, it may take longer for the grill to heat up.
It's important to be patient and wait for the charcoal to reach the desired temperature before cooking, as this will ensure that your food is cooked evenly and thoroughly. Once the grill is heated, you can start cooking and enjoy the delicious flavors that only a charcoal grill can provide.
How much should I expect to spend on a high-quality charcoal grill?
The cost of a high-quality charcoal grill will depend on various factors such as the size, material, and brand. On average, a good quality charcoal grill can cost anywhere between $100 to $500. However, there are some high-end models that can go up to $1000 or more.
When choosing a charcoal grill, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. For example, if you plan on using your grill frequently and for large gatherings, you may want to invest in a larger size and higher-end model that can accommodate all your grilling needs.
Additionally, the material of the grill can also impact the cost. Stainless steel grills tend to be more expensive than those made of cast iron or aluminum, but they are also more durable and long-lasting.
Ultimately, it's important to do your research, read reviews, and compare prices to find the best charcoal grill that fits both your budget and your grilling needs.
What are the benefits of using a charcoal grill over other types of grills?
Charcoal grilling has been a popular method of cooking for many years. There are several benefits to using a charcoal grill over other types of grills. Firstly, charcoal grilling gives your food a distinct smoky flavor that cannot be replicated by other grilling methods. This is because the charcoal burns hotter and produces more smoke than gas or electric grills, which enhances the flavor of the food.
Secondly, charcoal grills are portable and can be used almost anywhere. They don't require an electrical outlet or gas line, making them perfect for camping or outdoor events.
Thirdly, charcoal grills are generally less expensive than gas or electric grills. They also require minimal maintenance and are easy to clean.
Lastly, charcoal grilling allows for more cooking versatility. You can easily adjust the temperature by adding or removing charcoal, allowing you to cook a variety of foods at different temperatures.
Overall, the benefits of using a charcoal grill include a unique smoky flavor, portability, affordability, easy maintenance, and cooking versatility.
What are the top-rated charcoal grills according to Consumer Reports?
Consumer Reports recently reviewed and rated several charcoal grills based on their cooking performance, ease of use, and durability. The top-rated charcoal grill on their list is the Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill. It received high marks for its even heating, excellent searing capability, and easy-to-use ash removal system. It also has a built-in thermometer and an adjustable damper for temperature control.
The second on the list is the Nexgrill Cart-Style Charcoal Grill. It is known for its large cooking space, sturdy construction, and excellent heat retention. It also has a hinged lid with a built-in thermometer, an adjustable charcoal tray, and a removable ash pan for easy cleaning.
The third on the list is the Kingsford Barrel Charcoal Grill. It is a budget-friendly option that still delivers impressive cooking performance. It has a large cooking surface, easy-to-use vents for temperature control, and a removable ash pan. It also features a built-in thermometer and a side shelf for added convenience.
Overall, these three charcoal grills are rated highly by Consumer Reports for their excellent cooking performance, durability, and user-friendliness.
What features should I look for when choosing a charcoal grill?
When choosing a charcoal grill, there are several features to consider to ensure that you get the most out of your investment. Here are some key features to look for:
1. Size: Consider the size of the grill you need based on the amount of food you typically cook. If you regularly cook for a large group, a larger grill may be necessary.
2. Material: Choose a grill made of durable materials such as cast iron or stainless steel that can withstand high temperatures and exposure to the elements.
3. Air vents: Look for a grill with adjustable air vents to regulate the temperature and airflow inside the grill.
4. Grates: Choose grates made of heavy-gauge steel or cast iron for durability and even heat distribution.
5. Ash management: Look for a grill with an ash management system to make cleaning up after grilling easier.
6. Mobility: If you plan on moving your grill around, look for one with wheels or a lightweight design.
Overall, consider your grilling needs and preferences when choosing a charcoal grill, and look for features that will help you achieve your desired grilling results.
What is the best charcoal grill for a beginner cook?
When it comes to choosing the best charcoal grill for a beginner cook, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, it's important to look for a grill that is easy to use and clean. Additionally, a beginner may want to look for a grill that has features such as a built-in thermometer or adjustable vents to help with temperature control.
One popular option for beginners is the Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill. This classic grill is affordable and easy to use, with a simple design that allows for easy temperature control. The grill also has a durable construction and is easy to clean.
Another great option is the Char-Griller Akorn Jr. Kamado Kooker. This grill has a unique design that allows for precise temperature control, making it a great option for beginners who want to experiment with different cooking techniques. The grill is also portable and easy to clean, making it a great option for those who want to take their grilling on the go.
Ultimately, the best charcoal grill for a beginner cook will depend on individual preferences and needs. However, the Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill and Char-Griller Akorn Jr. Kamado Kooker are both great options to consider.