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 Big Joe Series III is a large and sturdy ceramic charcoal grill offering a generous 450 square inches of cooking area, suitable for anyone who wants to cook for a crowd or experiment with multiple foods at once. Its ceramic build ensures excellent heat retention and durability, though the grill is quite heavy at 445 pounds, which limits portability despite the included rolling cart with locking wheels. One standout feature is the SlōRoller insert, which uses advanced airflow science to distribute smoke and heat evenly, enhancing flavor while reducing hot spots—a big plus for smoking enthusiasts.

The 3-tier Divide & Conquer system adds versatility by allowing you to cook different foods at various temperatures simultaneously. Temperature control is very precise thanks to the Kontrol Tower top vent, which manages airflow well and supports a wide temperature range from low smoking (225°F) to high searing (750°F). The air lift hinge also makes opening the heavy dome easier, improving user comfort. Cleaning might be a bit involved given the ceramic material and multiple components, but this is typical for kamado-style grills.

This grill is ideal for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who value quality craftsmanship, flavor precision, and flexibility over easy transport or simple cleanup.

The Char-Griller AKORN Kamado Charcoal Grill and Smoker offers a versatile cooking experience, perfect for both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking. With a generous cooking area of 445 square inches, it’s capable of handling up to 27 burgers at once, making it ideal for large gatherings. Its triple-walled steel insulated design and cast iron grates ensure excellent heat retention and durability, though they also contribute to the grill’s considerable weight of 97 pounds, which might pose challenges for portability despite its 8-inch locking caster wheels.

Temperature control is straightforward with indexed adjustable dual dampers and a built-in thermometer, allowing for precise heat management. Cleaning is simplified with a removable Easy Dump Ash Pan, though the grill does require some assembly. Additional features like the removable warming rack, bottom storage shelf, and foldable side shelf workstations with tool hooks add to its convenience and functionality.

While the grill is built solidly with a powder-coated finish for outdoor use, its large dimensions may require significant space in your backyard or patio. This grill is best suited for those who enjoy versatile cooking options and don’t mind the extra effort in assembly and moving it around. It offers robust features and a spacious cooking area for effective outdoor grilling and smoking.