Best charcoal grills

Cook up some seriously tasty treats with these quality charcoal grills.

Best charcoal grills
(Image credit: Unsplash)

There's nothing quite like charcoal grills. Whether you're cooking meats, veggies, or vegetarian treats, a charcoal grill adds that extra bit of flavor you don't get with a gas grill. Providing you with high heat, the charcoal grill has no max temperature, unlike other options. Plus, because you, as the chef, are in total control of the coal placement, you can use smart fire configurations, like the two-zone grilling method. Often cheaper than using gas- or electric-powered grills, charcoal grills are often lightweight, and best of all, they yield some irresistibly succulent and smoky delights.

Now, we know there are a lot of options out there, and this can make finding the best a little difficult. But to take the heat off you, we've done the honors and carefully selected the top options. Comprising a whole spectrum of styles, from portable, mini grills to big-boy barbecues, our roster has something for everyone. And yes, we do have a personal favorite: the UCO Flatpack Grill, a hardy choice that can be collapsed for easy portability. To learn more about this, plus some other great products, read on.

Staff pick

UCO Flatpack Grill

(Image credit: UCO)

UCO Flatpack Grill

Durable + versatile = add to basket

This sturdy design can fit into a backpack.

Pros:

  • Stable
  • Foldable
  • Case included
  • Multi-functional
  • Portable

Cons:

  • Not the best looking

Constructed from stainless steel, the UCO Flatpack Grill is a small but mighty design, ideal for weekend getaways to the country. Offering reasonable grilling space, it's perfect for small groups and can serve two to three people. Plus, it doubles up as a firepit, so you can while away the hours watching the flames after you've eaten. With a 30-second set-up time, it's pretty much ready to go on arrival. Dishwasher safe, it is hardwearing and easy to maintain, not to mention portable. Oh, and the canvas storage bag comes included with purchase – perfect, right? 

Sleek and discrete

KENLUCK Buddy Grill

(Image credit: KENLUCK)

KENLUCK Buddy Grill

Keep mess to a minimum

Just the right size for groups of three to four.

Pros:

  • Simple assembly
  • Easy cleaning
  • Convenient
  • Hardwearing
  • Thick

Cons:

  • Less affordable

No, this isn't a suitcase, although it folds up like one. The KENLUCK Buddy Grill, which is designed for convenient carriage, comes complete with a wooden, heat-free handlebar and is made from heat-resistant painted steel. Resistant to abrasion, thanks to its stainless-steel construction, it is durable and long-lasting, and won't produce toxic smoke. With easy-to-follow instructions, it has a stress-free assembly, and because of the smooth steel, it is a breeze to clean up. Whether it's a spontaneous picnic in the countryside or glamping on a beach, this is sure to please. 

Garden soirée

Aiglam Charcoal Grill

(Image credit: Aiglam)

Aiglam Charcoal Grill

Kids and adults will adore this

Family cookouts just got even better.

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • Easy assembly
  • Hardwearing
  • Includes a few handy extras
  • Easy to clean

Cons:

  • Not portable by hand

Picture the scene: the sun's out and everyone really fancies a barbecue dinner. Perfect. With this Aiglam Charcoal Grill, you've got the whole family catered for. Made from stainless steel, this is a solid model indeed, both resistant to rust and easy to clean. With air vents on both ends of the grill, it allows for hassle-free temperature control, ensuring even heat distribution. Oh, and we can't not mention some of the extras that come with it. You'll receive one food tong, one cleaning brush, and one non-stick frying pan, as well as a whole host of other goodies to accompany your cooking setup.

Premium pick

Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill

(Image credit: Royal Gourmet)

Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill

With an offset smoker

For the juiciest, tastiest meats and veggies yet.

Pros:

  • Easy assembly
  • Heavy duty
  • Large capacity
  • Easy cleaning
  • Professional

Cons:

  • A little more expensive

Won't settle for anything less than the best? Well, in which case, you'll love the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill, complete with porcelain-wire cooking grates, an offset smoker, and a two-level adjustable charcoal pan. Plus, with an easy-read temperature gauge built-in, it helps you to stay on top of the cooking process. Oh, and thanks to the adjustable vent, it has excellent airflow, ensuring quality heat control. Should you wish to move it around, it has two durable wheels for easy transport. And, if there's anything that needs storing nearby, there are two handy shelves. 

On a budget

REDCAMP Folding Grill

(Image credit: REDCAMP)

REDCAMP Folding Grill

Cheap and cheerful

Good things come in small packages. 

Pros:

  • Portable
  • Stable
  • Appropriate for various fuels
  • Lightweight
  • Very affordable

Cons:

  • Not suitable for larger cookouts

Can't part with too much but won't compromise on quality? This REDCAMP Folding Grill is a no-brainer then. Suitable for use with coal, as well as other fuels, such as wood, this is a great addition to any hiking, fishing, or mountaineering trip. Plus, because it is lightweight and collapsible, it can be put away in its own carry bag. With a well-ventilated design, it features an ash pan, a rotatable switch for easy control, and an ever-so cute packing bag. When you set up camp and start to cook, you'll see why we love it so much for yourself. 

Chart-topping charcoal grills

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As we're sure you are aware, a charcoal grill makes quite the addition to your home or trip away. So, have you found your favorite yet? If not, don't fret. To refresh your memory, we've neatly summarised our go-to picks.

Our all-time winner, the UCO Flatpack Grill, is both collapsible and sturdy, making it ideal for road trips. What about something understated but chic? Well, it has to be the KENLUCK Buddy Grill. Planning a family barbecue? You simply have to buy this Aiglam Charcoal Grill. If you're willing to part with a little more, this Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill really is the creme of the crop. Alternatively, if you're after something a little more wallet-friendly, this REDCAMP Folding Grill is an affordable but trusty pick.

Joseph Bobowicz
Freelance Contributor

Working across digital and print publications, Joseph Bobowicz is a London-born writer obsessed with books, culture, and all things new. When he's not writing about fashion for i-D and the Independent, he's out sourcing the best homewares to incorporate into any humble abode, fixer-upper, or first-time buy alike.

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