15 Best Portable Charcoal Grills (2024 Reviews & Buying Guide)

The first version of this household grill is a portable charcoal grill, which is easy to use and set up. Despite the advent of newer models, these grills still maintain their popularity for domestic use. Their mobility makes them perfect for camping, road trips, travel, tailgating, beach parties, picnics, and various other outdoor activities. Compact enough to fit in the RV or car trunk, are an excellent means of carrying the delightful smokey flavor with you on your journeys.

With decent care and upkeep, a portable charcoal grill may endure for several decades. Because they normally don’t have any electrical parts, you simply require fire and charcoal and you are all set. Because of such, they are perfect for different sorts of settings, such as camping, tailgating, and much more.

We also contained the best portable charcoal grills with exceptional attributes that stood apart from the bunch. Our suggested picks are hardy with unsung security attributes, like locking brakes and oversize handles, made from solid substance to better manage temperature, and simple to clean up when done.

List Of 15 Best Portable Charcoal Grill Reviews

1. Weber 40020 Smokey Joe Premium 14-Inch Portable Grill

• Being a Weber, strength is anticipated; one proprietor ‘lamented’ that they ‘just’ had theirs for 18 decades, haha. Anyhow, for reassurance, it includes a 10-year limited guarantee.
• The carrying handle folds down to sleep on a side clip, giving a handy spot to maintain the lid. The lid includes a glass-reinforced nylon handle and one big 4-hole aluminum port. Even the 141/2-inch diameter triple nickel-plated grate can cook three beers or six hamburgers at the same time.
• Also called Weber Smokey Joe Gold, the 40020 weighs 9.8 lbs and measures 9 x 15.5 x 15.5 inches. Unlike its own near-twin Smokey Joe Silver, it lacks a base damper that doubles as an ash catcher. However, on the flip side, acquiring the dampers on the sides eliminates the difficulty found at the Silver of ash flushing the dampers.
• Inside and outside, the portable charcoal grill and lid are coated with porcelain enamel to prevent rust and promote heat supply. Weber provides cooking tips and recipes in a 31-page owner’s manual.

2. Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill

• Weber is famous for its grills, both gas and charcoal. This version is a small update from their Original Kettle, which we also advocate. The principal difference is in the ash collector: This superior variant comes with an enclosed container, while the first has a plate that is exposed. Both, however, have a one-touch cleaning system that sweeps out the ash from within the base of the kettle.
• The cooking grate on the top grill includes two hinged edges which enable more irrigation to be inserted without raising the whole piece. Its lid also includes added heat protection under the grip, and its own side grips attribute tool holders.
• Along with its own original and superior lines, which come in many sizes, Weber also supplies cart-style grills with much more shelving, premium models using a propane ignition, and small, portable charcoal grills you can choose on the move.

3. Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill 18 Inch

• Having a title such as “Jumbo Joe” at first glance, this does not exactly scream grill. Due to a clever design signature from Weber, the Jumbo Joe manages to pack a good deal of the high quality and features you expect from a full-size Weber Kettle to a portable package.
• You get exactly the exact same amount of cooking area as the 18″ Kettle classic, but this grill just weighs 22 lbs and can easily be performed by a single person. It is simple to wash and you can fit lots of food on its own 18″ grill rack. The charcoal grate is made of heavy gauge steel, which can be powerful enough to withstand the substantial weight and depart tasty-looking sear marks in your meat.
• Carrying this out the grill to different cookout websites is easier than ever due to this Tuck-N-Carry lid lock. This permits you to take the portable charcoal grill out of the lid handle and stops you from needing to set the lid onto the floor or onto a different table if you will need to get into the cooking place.

4. Kamado Joe KJ23RHC Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill

• We enjoy Kamado Joe’s Classic II since it leaves few, if any, concessions at grade, but is priced nicely. Shockingly, you might end up paying more for a barbecue of comparable if not equivalent structure.
• Unlike some of its rivals, Kamado Joe’s Classic II includes a solid framework, sturdy (if somewhat small) locking brakes, an abysmal, also can be virtually weatherproof (nevertheless, purchase a pay ).
• Unlike easier, less-sealed portable charcoal grills (such as the remainder of our recommendations), this one is going to make it possible for you to cook between 225 and 750 degrees Fahrenheit, and keep up a consistent warmth whilst doing this by virtue of the inner ceramic coating, which comes with an oven impact.
• This grill is excellent for just about anything you may use a skillet for, save for smoking an entire hog or ingesting massive parties (but that is apparent of an 18-inch grill), and it excels in either low-and-slow and hot-and-fast cooking.
• The sole downside to the portable charcoal grill is that there is no ash-catching tray and you need to wash it out with your hands or even a vacuum cleaner. Nonetheless, if you’re trying to find the best-performing grill without having to spend a few thousand bucks, you won’t discover much rivalry for your Kamado Joe Classic II.

5. Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill

• Among those complaints with the portable units is they can’t normally cook a lot of food due to their limited capability. But that isn’t true with what Weber is supplying for this one. Unlike the majority of the compact and portable components which are out there, it includes a considerably larger cooking space.
• The cooking area is 160 square inches. With that, you’ll have the ability to cook up to six hamburger patties in precisely the exact same moment. Meaning cooking for numerous folks won’t be a hassle.
• Besides supplying a large cooking space, in addition, it maintained the portability depended in. The lid from which the device comes features locks set up and will allow you to carry it readily. Alongside this, the rectangular figure it features will enable you to cram it from the auto trucks.
• Apart from that, it includes side handles and a high handle which are comfortable to hold. The compact and lightweight body will create carrying it out camping and outdoor experiences feel like taking a stroll to the park.
• Both the foundation and the lid are porcelain-enameled. Meaning it will have the ability to keep heat exceptionally well, which will diminish the usage of coals. In addition, this enameling may even withstand rust and protect against peeling.

6. BEAU JARDIN Portable Charcoal Grill

• The Beau Jardin BBQ comes from the conventional kettle design to market efficacy, even cooking with charcoal. When this qualifies as a portable bbq, you won’t get shortchanged with cooking capability. Measuring 18 inches round and supplying 255 square inches of space, you can feed the entire family or a few guests.
• Produced of porcelain-enameled steel, you receive something that’s designed to last without having to spend a lot of money. The grate is thickened to withstand high temperatures and the overall build quality seems quite robust. We’d draw attention to the bottoms of the BBQ. Described by the manufacturer as”sturdy”, we have to disagree.
• Much like almost any portable charcoal grill, you want to choose if you are ready to take this lack of equilibrium to attain a little barbecue. This pot is tailor-made for if you are camping, The brakes mean you will not have to strain yourself changing it about.

7. Char-Griller 2137 Outlaw 1063 Square Inch Charcoal Grill

• Having a major cooking area that measures 580 square inches and a 270-square inch warming rack, the complete 850 square inches delivered via this unit is sufficient to deal with any type of celebration or get-together.
• In reality, the portable charcoal grill can be utilized as both a stove and a defroster at precisely the exact same time, as a result of its incredibly large complete cooking surface.
• Moving on, the device also includes cast-iron grates in four lift-able segments for simple access to the coals, thus giving the user with optimal comfort. And considering the merchandise has a powder-coated conclusion on it, users don’t have any reason to bother at all.
• In addition, this item has a flexible charcoal grate and an easy-dump ash pan. The grill’s cart can also be made with tubular steel, although its own body is constructed with heavy-duty steel, which makes it a remarkably durable unit.
• Besides its durability, it’s also portable – it comprises big eight-inch wheels, and that explains the reason why it’s quite simple to transport. The device also includes other helpful features such as a condiment basket, a wooden side shelf using utensil hooks, a massive base cable shelf, and a temperature indicator.
• The grill’s structure is intended to maintain smoke and warmth indoors, thereby providing the food an exceptional smoke taste. There are air vents on the side of the grill to permit simple temperature control.

8. Royal Gourmet ZH3002-S 3-Burner Gas Charcoal Grill Combo

• This dual grill includes one facet that uses charcoal and also another side that is fueled by liquid propane, letting you cook meals just to your liking working with an assortment of methods.
• The stainless steel machine includes three dishwashers, several ceramic toaster grates, two side tables, plus a convenient warming rack. Additionally, it’s wheels so that you can move it where you want.
• Fixed side tables give you plenty of additional working space. Detailed designs such as integrated tool hanging extensions (S hooks not included), bottle opener are friendly features making your barbecue enjoyable and leisurely.
• The portable charcoal grill is free to move around: the combination of 2 casters and 2 wheels realizes convenient movement and meanwhile provides a sturdy foundation for grilling.

9. Kamado Joe Jr. KJ13RH Charcoal Grill

• The special thing that you will discover concerning the Kamado Joe is your modular and compact design. This makes it ideal for using in a little bit of space rather easily.
• The grill’s 14-inch ceramic grill is perfectly perched on a cast-iron rack means it is exceedingly stable. You may put it on any counter or surface easily. In addition, it is made up of 304 stainless steel. The benefit of stainless steel cooking grate is the fact that it may handle tear and wear and higher temperature.
• A few of the qualities of this portable charcoal grill that set it apart incorporate the ceramic heating deflector. It raises heat retention capability. Consequently, the quantity of charcoal necessary to cook your favorite delicacies gets considerably reduced.
• It is made up of a grill gripper too, which adds to the convenience. With the support of this ash instrument, it’s not hard for you to remove the sediment and ash at your convenience.
• Additionally, with the assistance of a built-in thermometer on the lid, it’s not hard to gauge the temperature. Additionally, the temperature range is generally involving 225F to 750F. It usually means you could cook at a high temperature easily.

10. Cuisinart CCG190RB Portable Charcoal Grill

• Should you require a portable charcoal grill for travel, Cuisinart CCG190RB includes a strong steel construction you will enjoy. It may resist physical abuse. The top and its own steel grates have chrome plating that provides power.
• You may use it to cook tasty meals for a little household on 150 square feet. This is impressive since the gadget is small and mobile. Charcoal and warmth management is also simple via a ventilation system. Open and shut the port to increase or reduce its temperature to match the kind of food that you’re cooking.
• Don’t let the compact layout of the portable charcoal grill frighten you. It’s a multi-functional and feature-rich layout that is useful whenever you’re cooking outside. The plated grates (chrome) for example, disperse heat evenly for cooking.
• You can transport it easily and control the warmth on demand by means of a double venting system. It is also possible to open and close its lid and lock it to get safer transport through three protected locks.

11. Old Smokey Charcoal Grill

• Old Smokey was created in the USA from Burkhead Manufacturing and has been mostly sold in the South before the Coming of Amazon and other online marketplaces.
• So far as appearances go, it kind of resembles two washtubs clasped with alloy strips for your legs. But looks are not everything, and some might find its shinier look attractive.
• The barrel layout keeps heat and smoke about food, boosting the taste. The tall design also signifies the grate sits high over the flame, reducing burn danger, and which makes this one of those sole grills on the list where it is likely to roast beer-can grill and chicken turkeys.

12. Dyna-Glo DGN576SNC-D Dual Zone Premium Charcoal Grill

• This portable charcoal grill out of Dyna-Glo means company. It is large and in charge, but also offers a detachable divider that may cut the cooking place at half if desired. Two flexible charcoal trays permit the temperature of these gloss, porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates to be controlled individually.
• The trays can every be obtained through both front doors so that you may add more coals as required or transfer them around throughout cooking. Its ashtray is situated under the charcoal trays at a drawer which could be pulled out for cleaning. The smokestack may also be corrected to get additional smoke and temperature management.
• This Dyna-Glo gets interesting bonus points for using a built-in jar opener on the front of the unit, along with two side shelves and a base rack for storage.

13. The Original Po’ Man Charcoal Grill

• Among all of the choices which are available, those which contain a drip plate will have the ability to boost the taste significantly. And, a fantastic illustration of such a device could be this one which is from Po’ Man.
• Let’s access the emphasized feature of the unit. Unlike the majority of the portable charcoal grills, it includes a drip plate that can lock in the flavor inside while cooking. Your meals will have each of the odor from all of the herbs and spices you marinated it together and won’t shed any tastes.
• Alongside this, it uses a round canister body that’s rather simple to maneuver around. It’s shaped just like a trashcan, and several may feel as it’s just one at first glance. However, they will find the entire story after opening the lid. Due to the shape, you’ll have the ability to take the elements and roll them out from place to place.
• In addition, the lid includes a suitable handle. The handle is fastened with the lid, and you’ll have the ability to open and shut it within minutes. Apart from that, as the total structure is steel, it’ll have the ability to keep heat exceptionally well. You’ll have the ability to save charcoals from the cooking sessions.

14. Raptor Grilling – Optimized Portable Charcoal Grill Smoker

• This BBQ from Raptor is among the best portable charcoal grills in a crowded sector. How can it distinguish itself from the competition?
• The plan of the Raptor is impeccable. This also serves a practical purpose, however. The fierce-looking handles create a striking statement, but also permit you to cook without even coming to any contact with the gas. This is perfect if you are tailgating with friends.
• The very last thing you need is ash and soot throughout your clothes when you are trying to unwind. Made from rocky 20-gauge steel, the overall dimensions are 23 x 14 x 6 inches.
• Despite such a tiny footprint, the cooking stand spans 18 x 13 inches giving you a whole cooking area of 230 square inches. The manufacturer claims that contrasts to 16 hamburgers, however, we believe this is somewhat ambitious.

15. Weber 15501001 Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill

• Weber is a remarkably reputable grill company, and it has released a lot of high-quality grills before, it’s just impressive instead of surprising their Weber 15507001 Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill performs incredibly well.
• To get a portable charcoal grill, the 363-square-inch cooking place with this particular one is superb outstanding. It is big enough to accommodate all your home cooking requirements and allow you to grill conveniently for each member of your loved ones.
• The device includes an inbuilt lid that reveals the grill’s inner temperature to enable you to understand when to control the heat. Other than that, the device also comes with a one-touch cleaning system which provides easy cleanup by swiping charcoal and debris ash into a detachable ash catcher.
• In regards to controls, keeping your eye on the temperature of the grill is super easy too – you just have to adjust the dampers as fully closing them will halt the circulation of oxygen to help douse coals. The charcoal container comprised provides convenient storage to your own charcoal, letting you easily take it if you require it.

How To Light a Grill the Right Way

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Charcoal Grill

Below are our tips for picking the best portable charcoal grill. We took several unique variables into consideration that ultimately shape our review section below.

Cost

We all know every client has a budget in mind if they shop, so that is why we chose the products which harmonize between function and value.

Many portable charcoal grills often run somewhere between $40 and $180, based on their manufacturer and capacity. They’re definitely the most popular and frequent alternative as a portable grill.

Size

Planning about which to cook and how a lot of people you are cooking for is essential in deciding exactly what grill size best fits you. For hamburgers and hotdogs on a Sunday picnic or until the match starts, a small to moderate grill ought to suffice. If a complete chicken is on the menu, then a larger grill is to be able.

If you are a lone traveler or a couple enjoying the weekend escape out of a metropolitan area to the outside, a small grill is much more than sufficient. Otherwise, if your entire family is happening a fishing excursion, look at obtaining a moderate to big grill.

Construction

The cooking surface may be of various distinct substances, the most typical of which can be coated steel, stainless steel, and cast iron. In case you’ve got a certain taste, then pay careful attention to this manufacturer’s description.

If you are choosing a portable charcoal grill, then you would need one with an easy-access coal bed and easy-control dampers, as you are going to be controlling the grill temperature by adjusting the quantity of airflow as well as coal.

Weight

A portable charcoal grill must be one that’s lightweight, compact, and that may be carried without a lot of hassle. Usually, such grills are much better matched a celebration of no longer than four diners. For a larger set, grills outfitted with casters or wheels are much favored.

Cleaning

Portable charcoal grills are exhausting and troublesome to clean, and it is a tradeoff due to their exceptional heating capacity. Apart from scrubbing the grate, you would need to manage to drain the dirt bed, however, this could be less problematic if the grill comes with an ash catcher or a dustpan. There is no dirt tray on gas grills, therefore juices and fats burn the coals, so that is one thing you do not need to fret about.

Concerning the fabric of the grate, stainless steel coated cast iron, and coated steel is comparatively simple to clean and durable, however the exact same cannot be stated for uncoated cast iron, which requires gentle cleaning and meticulous upkeep. If you would rather not deal with the cleaning hassle, it is ideal to steer clear of cast iron.

Safety

Cooking with open flame means flare-ups – an abrupt and savage burst of fires when dirt and fat are vulnerable to fire. This can grab the grillers off guard and can result in injuries. As a general guideline, to help stop flare-ups, it is possible to trim off excess fat before cooking.

Conclusion

Portable charcoal grills can be as basic as you need them, so yes, it’s possible to certainly construct a charcoal grill when you have a little time and patience. Pitmasters have cut barbecues from 55-gallon steel drums for generations, and while that is a bit more involved, it is not unfeasible.

Purchasing the very best portable charcoal grill can allow you to grill meat, prepare hamburgers, and cook food in any certain place. And, we expect that we could narrow the overall alternatives to a particular point it is currently easier for you to select one.