10 Best Charcoal Grills 2025 in the United States

The Weber The Ranch Charcoal Kettle Grill is a solid choice for outdoor cooking thanks to its sturdy steel body coated with porcelain enamel, which helps keep heat in and protects the grill from rust. Its size offers a decent cooking area with one hinged stainless steel grate that makes adding charcoal mid-grill easy without removing the whole grate. The built-in lid thermometer lets you monitor the internal temperature, aiding precise heat control for better cooking results. Ventilation is managed through the standard adjustable vents, allowing you to regulate airflow and temperature effectively.

Portability is somewhat limited due to its weight (over 130 pounds), so it’s better suited for a fixed spot in your backyard rather than frequent moving. Cleaning is simplified by a removable ash catcher that collects debris for easy disposal. Practical features like the tuck-away lid holder keep the lid off the ground when you need both hands free, and tool hooks help keep utensils organized and close by.

Assembly is required and might take some time. While the single cooking grate and rack are functional, there’s limited space if you want to grill large meals or multiple items at once. This grill is best suited for casual to intermediate grillers who value durable build and good heat control but don’t need high portability or extra cooking racks.

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.

The Weber Master-Touch Charcoal Grill in Deep Ocean Blue is a solid choice for anyone who enjoys outdoor grilling with charcoal. It offers a decent cooking area that can hold up to 13 burgers at once, making it suitable for small to medium gatherings. The grill is built with durable porcelain-coated steel, which helps it resist rust and retain heat well, ensuring even cooking. One of its stand-out features is the hinged cooking grate compatible with Weber's Gourmet BBQ System, allowing you to easily add charcoal mid-cook without removing the grate. It also includes a built-in lid thermometer, which helps you monitor temperature without lifting the lid and losing heat.

Ventilation and temperature control are handled through the design but might take some practice to master since it has a single-barrel configuration. Portability is moderate; while it's not ultra-lightweight, it has a tuck-away lid holder to keep the lid off the ground while grilling and tool hooks for convenience. The one-touch cleaning system simplifies ash removal, making post-cook cleanup less of a hassle. However, assembly is required, which may need some patience if you’re not used to putting grills together. The grill’s size is good but might feel a bit bulky for very small outdoor spaces or for frequent transport.

This grill balances quality, useful features, and ease of use, making it a great pick if you want reliable performance and some thoughtful extras without complicated tech.