Why Charcoal Still Reigns
In a world of smart gas grills and pellet cookers, charcoal retains a passionate following — and for good reason. The flavor, the ritual, the responsiveness to the cook's skill — charcoal grilling is alive in a way that gas simply isn't. But choosing the right charcoal grill can feel overwhelming given the options. This guide cuts through the noise.
The Main Types of Charcoal Grills
1. Kettle Grills
The classic round kettle — perfected by Weber in the 1950s — remains one of the most versatile grills ever made. Its dome lid creates a convection oven effect, making it equally capable of direct grilling and indirect low-and-slow cooking.
- Best for: Beginners, everyday grilling, small to medium households
- Pros: Affordable, widely available, proven design, excellent two-zone cooking
- Cons: Limited cooking space compared to larger options, shallow fuel bed
2. Ceramic Kamado Grills
Inspired by the ancient Japanese kamado (clay cooking vessel), modern ceramic kamados are thick-walled, egg-shaped grills that retain heat with extraordinary efficiency. The Big Green Egg is the most famous, but numerous brands now offer comparable quality.
- Best for: Serious cooks who want one grill to do everything — high-heat searing, low-and-slow BBQ, baking, smoking
- Pros: Unmatched heat retention, fuel efficiency, incredible versatility, long lifespan
- Cons: Heavy and expensive, takes practice to master temperature control
3. Barrel / Offset Smoker Grills
These horizontal barrel-shaped cookers often include a side firebox for indirect smoking. They're the workhorses of traditional American BBQ.
- Best for: Long, slow BBQ cooks — brisket, ribs, pork shoulder
- Pros: Large cooking capacity, authentic smoke flavor, great for parties
- Cons: Large footprint, require more fuel management, not ideal for quick grilling
4. Portable Charcoal Grills
Compact, lightweight options like the Weber Smokey Joe or various tabletop grills. Perfect for camping, tailgating, or balcony cooking.
Key Features to Evaluate
| Feature | Why It Matters | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Vent system | Controls airflow and temperature | Both top and bottom vents, easy to adjust |
| Cooking grate material | Affects heat retention and cleaning | Cast iron or porcelain-coated steel |
| Ash management | Ease of cleanup | Built-in ash catcher or removable ash pan |
| Lid fit | Smoke retention and convection | Tight seal, secure closure |
| Build quality | Longevity | Heavy-gauge steel, quality welds, rust-resistant finish |
| Cooking area | How much you can cook at once | 57cm (22") kettle = adequate for 4–6 people |
Questions to Ask Before You Buy
- How many people do I typically cook for? A 57cm kettle feeds 4–6 comfortably. For larger groups, look at larger kettles or barrel cookers.
- Do I want to smoke as well as grill? If yes, a kamado or a kettle with a good lid setup is essential.
- Where will it live? Consider weight, dimensions, and weather resistance if it'll stay outdoors.
- What's my realistic budget? A quality entry-level kettle can be found for under £100/USD. Kamados typically start around £500/USD and climb steeply.
- How important is convenience? Gas starts faster but charcoal rewards those who enjoy the process.
Our Honest Recommendation
For most home cooks new to charcoal, a 57cm kettle grill from a reputable brand is the right starting point. It's affordable, capable, well-documented, and has a huge community of users for tips and support. As your skills and ambitions grow, a kamado is the natural upgrade — it will outlast almost any other grill you can buy and genuinely does everything well.
Avoid cheap, thin-gauge barrel grills. They rust quickly, warp under high heat, and frustrate more than they satisfy.