10 Best Charcoal Grills 2025 in the United States

The Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill is a well-rounded choice for those who enjoy outdoor grilling. Its 22-inch cooking area can hold up to 13 burgers, making it suitable for family gatherings or small parties. One of its standout features is the built-in lid thermometer, which enables easy temperature monitoring while cooking. The rust-resistant aluminum dampers allow for good ventilation and temperature control, ensuring your food cooks evenly.

The build quality is impressive, with a porcelain-enameled lid and bowl that retain heat effectively and resist rust and peeling. The grill is also designed for easy maintenance, thanks to the One-Touch cleaning system that includes a high-capacity ash catcher, simplifying the cleanup process after grilling.

Portability is decent, weighing in at 32.3 pounds; it's manageable to move around for outdoor use. The hinged cooking grate adds convenience by allowing you to add charcoal without lifting the entire grate, a thoughtful feature for uninterrupted grilling. There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the grill is sturdy, it requires some assembly, which might be a bit challenging for those unfamiliar with putting together products. Additionally, while it excels in many areas, it may not offer as many advanced features as some high-end models, which could limit options for serious grilling enthusiasts. The absence of extras like a side table or storage space might also be a concern for those who value additional cooking accessories.

The Royal Gourmet CC1830W is a large charcoal grill that offers a generous 811 square inches of cooking space, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings and barbecues. It features a combination of porcelain-enameled steel cooking grates and chrome-plated warming racks, which are durable and help with even heat distribution. The offset smoker box is a useful addition for those who want to add authentic smoky flavors without needing a separate smoker. You can adjust the charcoal pan to two levels, allowing better control over cooking temperature, which is great for different types of grilling.

The grill has solid steel construction with a powder-coated finish, giving it decent durability, though it does require assembly out of the box. It has a built-in thermometer to monitor heat, plus practical wood-painted side and front tables that provide extra space for food prep and tools. Three hooks and a bottom mesh shelf offer convenient storage for utensils and grilling accessories. However, the grill weighs nearly 50 pounds and is not designed for easy portability, so it’s better suited for a fixed spot in your backyard or patio.

Cleaning might take some effort due to the multiple cooking surfaces and smoker box, though the enamel coating helps reduce sticking. The wooden tables add to the aesthetic but may need protection from weather over time. This grill represents a solid choice for those seeking a spacious, versatile charcoal grill with smoker capability and ample prep space, while users needing a lightweight or easily movable grill may want to consider other options.

The Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill is a classic choice for those who enjoy grilling with charcoal. It has a 22-inch diameter cooking area, which translates to 363 square inches of grilling space, enough to hold up to 13 burgers at once. This makes it suitable for small to medium gatherings. The grill's material and build quality are impressive, with a porcelain-enameled lid and bowl that retain heat well and resist rusting and peeling. The durable cooking grate also adds to its longevity.

One of its standout features is the One-Touch cleaning system, which makes ash cleanup quick and hassle-free, complemented by a removable aluminum ash catcher. Ventilation and temperature control are handled by adjustable dampers, allowing precise control over the grilling temperature, which is crucial for achieving the perfect cook. It also features a handy lid hook to keep the lid off the ground while grilling.

In terms of portability, the grill is relatively lightweight at 3.3 pounds, making it easy to move around your backyard or transport to another location. However, its size might make it a bit cumbersome for frequent transportation. Assembly is required, but the 3D interactive instructions available through the BILT app can help simplify the process. Additional features include a heat shield and a durable cooking grate, which enhance safety and extend the grill's lifespan. On the downside, this grill may not be ideal for those who need a very large cooking area or who prefer the convenience of gas or electric grills. Additionally, while it is easy to clean, the assembly might be intimidating for some users. Nevertheless, for traditional charcoal grill enthusiasts, the Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch offers a reliable and enjoyable grilling experience.