Best Charcoal Grills for Cookouts

Charcoal grills are the patriarch of the cookout experience, and while gas grills and smokers now abound, traditionalists still love this classic.

Whether your cravings are for grilled steaks or a brisket cooked low and slow, charcoal grills offer consistent high heat and can withstand the test of time. The right charcoal grill can be with your family for decades and be the center of dozens of memorable family cookouts.

4 Things to Consider When Buying a Charcoal Grill: 

1. Size: While a larger grill will have more surface area—and that means being able to grill a larger amount of foods at once—it also has to fit in the space you have. While some people will be putting the grill in the yard and have some room to play with, if you are dealing with a smaller deck or patio, make sure the dimensions fit your space.
2. Thermometer: While charcoal grills often have fewer bells and whistles than gas grills, some have a built-in thermometer. This thermometer is often a dial located under the lid that helps keep track of the cooking progress without having to cut into your meat and interrupt the process.
3. Smart Features: Some grills offer smart features that allow you to adjust grill temperature via an app on your smartphone. This helps you entertain your guests and not be tied to the grill at all times.
4. Ash Collector: Ash often piles up under charcoal after a few times at the grill, and once it begins to build, it can get in the way of making a strong fire. A removable ash collector works as a type of filter and makes it easy to gather ash as it builds and dispose of it with ease.

Charcoal grills may have a reputation for being less of a luxury than gas grills, but when it comes a good ol’ fashion cookout, smoky flavors, and convenience, you may just see it at the top of the heap. After reviewing features and customer reviews, our top pick for the best charcoal grill is the Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch Charcoal Grill, which is loaded with coveted features, from a porcelain-enameled bowl and lid to a stainless steel hinged cooking grate with an ash filtering feature, making sure you get the most out of your grilling experience.

If you find this helpful, you might also want to check out the Best Meat Thermometers and Best Gas Grills.