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 Weber Master-Touch Charcoal Grill is a versatile 22-inch grill that can cook up to 13 burgers, making it ideal for medium to large gatherings. With a total cooking area of 443 square inches, it offers ample space for grilling. The grill is constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and superior heat retention, which is crucial for consistent cooking results.

The built-in lid thermometer helps you monitor the internal temperature without lifting the lid, adding to its convenience. The Tuck-Away lid holder is a thoughtful feature that keeps the lid off the ground and out of the way, which is especially handy during busy grill sessions. The hinged cooking grate allows for easy addition of charcoal, and its compatibility with GBS inserts offers versatility in cooking different types of food. Tool hooks provide a convenient spot for hanging grilling tools, keeping everything within reach.

The grill's size and weight may affect portability, making it less ideal for those needing a highly portable option. The One-Touch Cleaning System simplifies the ash cleanup process, but it still requires some effort, which might be a downside for users looking for minimal maintenance. The Weber Master-Touch Charcoal Grill excels in build quality, cooking area, and additional features, though its portability and cleaning might be less appealing for some users.

The Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series II is a high-quality ceramic charcoal grill that offers a good cooking area of 250 square inches, ideal for family or small group grilling. Its thick ceramic build traps heat efficiently, allowing for consistent temperatures whether you're smoking low or searing high—thanks in part to the smart Kontrol Tower top vent for easy airflow control. The grill also features an innovative 2-tier cooking system, which lets you cook different foods at once with separate temperature zones.

Portability is decent considering its weight of 232 pounds; it comes with a sturdy aluminum and cast iron cart with locking wheels, making it easier to move around the patio. The air lift hinge is a standout feature, reducing the dome’s weight so opening the grill is smooth and effortless. When it comes to cleaning, the advanced firebox design helps prevent cracking and improves grilling efficiency, but ceramic grills generally require more careful maintenance compared to metal models.

Additional touches like side shelves and tool holders add convenience. This grill suits serious home cooks who want versatility and durability, though its weight and ceramic material mean it’s less suited for those needing a super portable option or looking for a budget-friendly grill.