Do you love the tasty foods prepared over briquets? And are ready for the work needed to get it? Then you’re better off choosing a charcoal grill over other grills. If you’re a weekend guy with lots of time, you’ll reap a lot from the flavour payback.
At ER BBQ, we’ve taken our gracious time to review some of the best charcoal BBQ grills on the market. As renowned grill masters, we aim to share our experience and knowledge to help you enjoy your weekends.
Why Should You Trust Our Review?
Over the years, ER BBQ has tested a large number of high-quality grills, including electric indoor grills, gas grills, pellet grills, smokers, and now, charcoal grills. We’ve invested our resources to bring you charcoal grills that won’t rust, are sturdy, and durable.
ER BBQ is not affiliated with any particular brand. We just do what we are good at to help you pick a charcoal grill that best matches your needs and requirements.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Charcoal Grill Smoker?
Even before checking out our recommended charcoal grill smokers, it’s always good to have a checklist of features to consider. Here are the things to look out for to choose a grill that can best serve your needs.
Size of the grill
The size of charcoal grills varies, ranging from compact, portable appliances to bigger, tabletop ones that can serve a crowd. While larger grills are ideal for cooking larger quantities of food at once, smaller ones are simpler to use. However, 22-inch kettle grills are best for families that grill frequently. Most smaller grills are suitable for one to four people and are perfect for the occasional griller.
Usage and versatility
If you use a charcoal grill to cook occasionally, you don’t have to put a lot of money into a fancy unit. Even the most basic unit can serve you, especially if you already have enough space to host a sizeable party. When looking for versatility, such as smoking, you can opt for insulated models that can maintain a consistent temperature for longer.
The shape of the grill
The traditional charcoal grills assume a circular shape. The shape of a grill allows coal to be bottom-centred to allow indirect cooking on the outer edges. A rectangular grill creates more diverse cooking areas, making them operate the same way as gas grills.
Extra features available
Also, you might want to look into the features that a charcoal grill UK unit can offer. For instance, you may want to go for a unit with storage shelves, oversized handles, and tool holders, among others. We were impressed with grills that provided adjustable charcoal trays for easier grates temperature control.
Extra features like these usually come at an additional cost. But if it brings you more convenience, then we think it’s worth investing in them.
How Did We Make Our List of Charcoal Grill Smokers?
To compile its list of the top charcoal smokers, ER BBQ does not only rely on user reviews. We have our in-depth research and testing processes to verify the claims made by the producers of these grills.
We browse a wide range of well-known and unknown brands and read countless site reviews. Then, we discuss features and the advantages they can provide users. We choose the top brands, put them through physical testing, and then write our comprehensive assessment. This is something we frequently do to keep our list of the top charcoal grills as accurate and updated as possible.
Editor’s Best Pick: Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill
Amazon Product Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000AY5R5O/
Are you limited in space in your backyard but can’t get rid of the idea of grilling? The Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill is the perfect solution. It’s packed with powerful grilling features for any meal you desire.
We loved its cast iron grates that quickly heat up to provide an even cooking temperature. After cooking, it becomes much easier to remove ash, thanks to its Easy Dump ash pan. With a 250 sq. inch cooking area, you can conveniently achieve exceptional food taste for a small party.
Why Do We Call It Our Top Pick?
We loved every bit of the Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill, especially the 250 sq. inch cooking space featuring cast iron grates. Even though it looks relatively small in size, you’ll be surprised by the cooking area it provides.
Apart from that, it offers side drawers for storage convenience. The wood handles with the Stay Cool feature, side shelf, side air vent, and double steel bottom make this charcoal grill our top pick. We also loved its portability, thanks to the wheels.
While testing, we were impressed by the ease of assembly, and the resulting food flavour was top-notch compared to the other grills.
Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill Review
The E1515 Patio Pro by Char-Griller is one of the most prominent outdoor grills preferred by most people. We took our time to research, test, and come up with this review.
Design & Build
Weighing only 50 pounds, this charcoal grill measures 31” by 21” by 44”, making it the perfect choice for outdoor grilling enthusiasts. It’s built from heavy-duty steel and powder-coated for enhanced durability. The Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill has two stands and two wheels for portability.
The exterior and the lid are made from stainless steel, while cooking grates feature cast iron, ideal for cooking and easy cleaning.
Cooking area
With its small size, you’ll have about 250 sq. inches of cooking space, ideal for grilling full-size chicken and some kebabs. The cooking area isn’t that small with some proper arrangement. You’ll also benefit from the side shelf, which you can use for placing your supplies.
The meshed storage shelf at the bottom can also serve for placing grilling and charcoal equipment.
Power, temperature, and Control System
We’ve mentioned that the cast iron cooking grates are great for even distribution of heat. But also, there is an air vent on the side for controlling oxygen circulation when grilling. This charcoal grill also allows you to adjust the airflow.
Unlike other grills, the Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro doesn’t have a thermometer for measuring temperature. However, it compensates for that by providing consistent heat when grilling. It also has a Dual Dumper control to allow you to regulate the temperature.
Performance
The Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro does great when grilling, smoking, or searing. It offers a wide range of cooking options to help you cook a variety of foods. One thing to note is that you’re going to need a slightly longer pre-heating time to achieve the desired cooking temperature.
We had to try it out severally, each time pre-heating it for about 40 minutes. Once pre-heated, maintaining the temperature wasn’t very difficult, although we had to refill the coal severally when smoking and grilling.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning this charcoal grill is easy, thanks to the easy-to-remove dump ash pan that collects debris during grilling. You simply need to pull it out and dispose of the content. Since the grill grates are cast iron made, they’re also much easier to clean.
Pros
- Sturdy heavy-duty steel construction.
- Ideal for small backyard spaces.
- Ease of portability due to two wheels.
- Maintains a steady and consistent temperature for long hours.
- Easier to clean.
- Easy assembling.
Cons
- Small cooking area.
- Controlling temperature can sometimes be difficult due to a single air vent.
What People Say About Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro
From the reviews we have seen online and received, this unit is the best charcoal grill for steaks. Most people rated it positively, apart from the common complaint of difficulty setting it up for first use. Also, the lack of a grease pan was not welcomed, otherwise, it received an average 4-star rating out of 5.
Our Final Verdict
In our opinion, the Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro is great for anyone trying to learn the grilling basics. Although we had a tough time assembling it, the usage phase was very simple. We loved the fact that it can use coal and pellets. Despite having difficulty attaining the desired temperature, once attained, the grill did a perfect job to maintain it.
The Runner Up: Tepro Toronto Click Barbecue
Amazon Product Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07HGGT9DR/
Do you usually have difficulties choosing the things to cook on charcoal grills? You’ll find our runner-up choice, the Tepro Toronto Click Barbecue the best as it accommodates all types of cooking. Whether you want to grill, smoke, sear, or roast, it will serve the purpose well.
We chose this charcoal grill to feature on our list as a runner-up because Tepro is a renowned manufacturer of barbecue grills. Out of all the models produced by the manufacturer, the Toronto Click stands as the most authentic, portraying the original features of the manufacturer.
Why Do We Call This Pick As Our Runner Up?
We ranked the Tepro Toronto Click Barbecue as our runner-up not only because of the manufacturer’s credibility but for its features. Although it doesn’t perform as great as our top pick in terms of maintaining a consistent temperature, it compensates for this with several other features. Such include a built-in temperature gauge. This makes it easier for a new user to maintain the temperature, but with a little more input.
Tepro Toronto Click Barbecue Review
If you’re looking for a good charcoal grill that does the job perfectly but, on a budget, you cannot go wrong with the Tepro Toronto Click Barbecue. We tested it with different foods and every time it met our expectations.
Design & Build
The grill is mid-sized, measuring 40.1” by 39.4” by 26.4”, able to accommodate up to 1.35kg charcoal or 2.7kg charcoal briquettes.
This portable charcoal grill features a sleek-looking design built from stainless steel with an anthracite finish for durability. The dual grill style offers two heights you can use to cook more food in one go. It comes with a screwless design for easy assembly in less than 30 minutes.
The design resembles the American trolley style and offers an infinite height adjustment option.
Cooking area
This charcoal grill offers a cooking area of 360 sq. inches, weighing an average of 26.55kg. the grill has a cooking grate and a warming rack that you can use to keep the cooked food warm until you’re ready to eat.
Power and Control System
The cooking temperature will change depending on how high the cooking grill is from the embers. Since the grill is two-part, you can tightly close it to prevent the upward escape of heat. This allows the lid to distribute the heat to the food on the grill grate. With the four vents available, you’ll be able to regulate the heat in the smoke vent as needed.
The charcoal tray has a crank handle, allowing you to adjust the height between the embers and the cooked food. Unlike most other grills, this charcoal grill comes with a temperature gauge on its lid for easier reading. This helps to determine the heat level in preparation for putting your meat on the grill.
Portability
We loved how portable the unit is, thanks to the two wheels that make movement a breeze. The wheels allow you to move it and position it anywhere you like.
Value for the Money
One of the biggest advantages of the charcoal grill is its extra side storage and the removable grill grid insert. With this convenience, you can grill different foods and control the heat as you like. We found these features a real deal since not many other charcoal grills offer the same.
Cleaning & Maintenance
The ash drawer is separate, allowing you to collect the ash with ease. Also, the cooking grate is made of cast iron, which is simpler to clean compared to stainless steel grates. However, we found the lack of a grease pan a downside to this grill as we had to devise our own to prevent the grease from dripping all over.
Pros
- Easy to assemble.
- Large charcoal capacity to support about 3 hours of use.
- Cooking height is adjustable through dual grill style.
- Built-in temperature gauge.
- Easily portable.
- A separate ash drawer.
Cons
- Requires more work to maintain a consistent temperature.
- The adjustable charcoal tray eventually warps when heated.
- Requires a cover to keep off elements when not in use.
What People Say About Tepro Toronto Click Barbecue
You only need to view a couple of reviews from buyers to understand that this grill does a great job. The height adjustment feature, the temperature gauge on the lid, and the sleek design are just a few great features that most purchasers expressed satisfaction with.
Apart from a few poor ratings due to specific experiences such as assembling difficulty, most people have rated this charcoal grill as 4 out of 5 stars.
Our Final Verdict
The Tepro Toronto Click Barbeque is an upgrade of the 2018 model, which had a problem with the crank. We admit that assembling it was quite a task, but overall, the grill performed as we expected. The versatility of using either wood pellets, charcoal, or the firewood was also welcomed by our team. Overall, this charcoal barbecue is great for its price.
The Best Budget Charcoal Grill Smoker: ER Go Anywhere Charcoal Grill
Amazon Product Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00GYUN5ZM/
Just as the name says, the ER Go Anywhere is a simple, highly effective charcoal grill smoker you can take anywhere to enjoy grilled meat. It’s the perfect grill for camping and fishing events on a weekend.
ER BBQ tested the ER Go Anywhere Charcoal Grill after we received several requests from our followers to give our honest opinion of it. After in-depth testing, we found it to offer a couple of budget-friendly features worth considering.
Why Do We Call It Our Best Budget Pick?
This charcoal grill is simple, durable, and effective, offering a quick pit-cooking solution on the go. With consideration of its price, we decided to rate it the best budget pick for its scaled-down features. It offers a sizeable charcoal bed, allowing the user to make use of the different heat zones to cook various foods.
Its body is made of cast iron and the enamelled grills put the quality way above the standards offered by equally priced brands. With some preparedness and work on the assembly process, you can achieve tasty grilled, roasted, smoked, or seared food.
ER Go Anywhere Charcoal Grill Review
ER Go Anywhere grill brings plenty of excellent features, including durability, quality, and performance as most other ER charcoal grill models. We had a look at some of its features after testing and this is what we concluded.
Design & Build
Measuring 15” by 19.5” 11.5”, this charcoal grill has a lightweight design with a cuboid shape for increased portability. With double handles, this tabletop grill has a compact design that’s easy to carry around.
The ER Go Anywhere has a solid design, constructed from heavy-duty steel. We were impressed that it could sustain accidental drops we encountered during transportation. Plus, the lid is porcelain enamelled to allow heat retention and reduce heat swings often experienced with charcoal grills.
The cooking grates are made of stainless steel, which can attest weren’t easy to clean compared to the cast iron grates. That’s especially true if slow cooking for longer hours.
Power and Control System
Grilling over charcoal and fire is a culinary form of art that can’t be compared to gas flame grilling. The Go Anywhere model offers consistent power output and cooking time that can compete against gas-guzzling models.
Its classic shape did an excellent job at limiting the coal bed through concentration in a smaller section. This simultaneously increased heat output and a prolonged burning time. There are adjustable vents or dampers both at the sides and top to bring in the aspect of control. This combined with the surface area factor allows better heat control. but this also needs some bit of experience to control the heat better.
Performance
During our test, at peak power, the grill grates quickly heated up to attain 330oF in about 30 minutes. Within another 10 minutes, the temperature rose to 455oF. after cooking for an extra 20 minutes, we noted that the heat dropped to 355oF and continued to fluctuate at ranges of 10oF.
With this temperature range, we were able to grill most foods, sear red meats, and attain a crispy chicken skin roast. Generally, the performance was great for slow cooking at low temperatures.
Cooking area
The ER Go Anywhere offers a sizeable cooking area of 160 sq. inches that can hold 6 burgers. Compared to other similarly priced units, the cooking space is ideal for about 2-3 people.
Portability
Its simple design combined with the pivoting legs makes it portable. These legs are controlled by an effective lock that’s easy to manipulate.
Value for money
For the performance, size, and price, we are sure it’s going to be difficult to find a highly valuable charcoal grill with great portability. We loved the fact that we could take it anywhere with us, including when tailgating and picnicking. If you’re enthusiastic about grilling, smoking, or roasting over charcoal, this ER charcoal grill is worth your money.
Cleaning & Maintenance
The maintenance of this grill isn’t any different from other charcoal grills. Simply use a grill brush to scrape the food debris off the grate. You can also clean the grate using dish soap and water. For tough stains, you can use grill cleaners. Ensure any partially burnt charcoal and ash are removed before the next use.
Pros
- Sturdy and high-quality stainless-steel construction
- Compact portable design with legs and lid lock.
- Twin dampers allow easy temperature control.
Cons
- The cooking space is small to hold a full-size chicken.
- Stainless steel grates are not as effective as cats iron
What People Say About ER Go Anywhere
From most reviews we’ve received, many users loved the grill’s simplicity and its portability. Those who found it useful did so when using it away from home during weekends, otherwise, it wasn’t welcomed for cooking food for a large number of people.
Our Final Verdict
Barbecuing outdoors while camping or tailgating comes with a compromise if you choose this charcoal grill. You won’t get the features of a full-size charcoal grill but you’re sure to enjoy plenty of conveniences. It offers a real grilling experience on a charcoal grill.
We also loved its durability, sturdy construction, and dampers for controlling the temperature. Even though it can’t handle food for a large group of people, it surely does well for its price.
Best Portable Charcoal Grill Smoker: CosmoGrill Outdoor XL
Amazon Product Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0749Q79YL/
Are you looking for a portable charcoal grill that’s large enough to serve you and your family during weekend getaways? The CosmoGrill Outdoor XL offers a generously sized cooking area to hold more than 10 sausages and 10 burger patties at a go. in addition, its performance is also great for smoking, and grilling, among other forms of cooking.
Why Do We Call It Our Best Portable Pick?
While testing this grill, we noted that it offers lots of portability options and convenience. These include two castor wheels and two sturdy stands to give it a firm grip once positioned. Also, we were impressed by the two foldable tables on each side, offering extra space for holding grilling accessories.
These foldable tables make it easier to reduce the required space for storage or transportation. At the bottom, there’s also a storage rack where you can keep other things you’ll need during the grilling process.
CosmoGrill Outdoor XL Charcoal Grill Review
We’ve tested the CosmoGrill Outdoor XL charcoal grill to prepare this simple review to help you make an informed buying decision.
Design & Build
This portable charcoal grill is built from heavy-duty steel and comes with a size measuring 48.8” by 26” by 44.7” (LxWxH). This size can carry a charcoal capacity of 2.7kg. the cuboid shape also features a porcelain-coated finish with two foldable tables on each side.
There’s also a bottle opener to let you enjoy your beer as you grill. The four hooks attached also come in handy for hanging utensils, but you can also use the storage rack at the bottom for keeping other grilling essentials.
Portability
Portability is at its best with this charcoal grill, weighing about 24 kgs. Featuring two castor wheels and two stands, we were able to set it as we wanted. The stainless-steel handles on the coal tray also added some portability. During transportation and storage, the tables on the sides also were able to fold with ease, therefore improving portability.
Power and Control System
Charcoal grills often have the challenge of adjusting the temperature. However, the CosmoGrill Outdoor XL charcoal grill takes care of this wittily. There’s a temperature gauge on the lid to help you monitor the heat. It comes with air vents and a coal tray that’s height adjustable for easy control of the heat reaching the food.
The grill also distributes heat variably to allow the cooking of different foods at one go. With the warming rack, you can keep the food warm once ready until you’re ready to feast. With the air regulation door, you can control the level of oxygen reaching the coal and therefore also regulate the heat produced.
Performance
The performance of this charcoal BBQ grill UK unit was as we had anticipated. With various ways of controlling the heat, we could perfectly grill some hotdogs and sausages. To our surprise, we also smoked some chicken, seared steaks brisket, and fish.
This however requires some skills in balancing the air vents, the door, and grilling height to attain and maintain the desired temperature. The air vents, chimney, and door helped us a lot in controlling the heat for different types of cooking.
Cleaning & Maintenance
The cleaning process is made easier by the removable ashtray, allowing you to dispose of the ash after each use. Also, the cooking grates are washable with soap and water, but you’ll need a grill brush to scrub them clean.
Pros
- Can achieve high cooking temperature.
- Has a warming rack to keep food warm
- Built-in thermometer for monitoring the heat.
- Great portability.
- Two foldable side shelves.
- Easily removable ashtray.
Cons
- Assembling is challenging for first-time use.
- It’s challenging to keep consistent temperatures for long.
What People Say About CosmoGrill Outdoor XL Charcoal Grill
The CosmoGrill Outdoor XL Charcoal Grill enjoys a good rating on most online review sites. We checked out some reviews on Amazon and we were able to count more than seven hundred 5 star ratings, a clear indication that most users are impressed.
Most buyers liked the adjustable coal tray height, foldable side shelves, and the idea that it can serve the same purpose as an oven.
Our Final Verdict
Our final take on this charcoal barbecue is that it serves the purpose perfectly, despite giving us difficulties with the assembling. It attained the desired temperature a little faster, thanks to the air vents and the door for regulating air reaching the coal tray.
The idea of an adjustable coal tray height was also great. We grilled, smoked, and even seared red meat with this charcoal grill, although the 2.7kg charcoal capacity wasn’t sufficient. The two wheels and stands also made it easier to position it and transport it easily
Overall, we think that the CosmoGrill Outdoor XL Charcoal Grill is worth every penny if you want a larger portable grill.
The Advanced Charcoal Smoker: CosmoGrill Outdoor XXL Grill
Amazon Product Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07VWLC26F/
The CosmoGrill Outdoor XXL Grill is a bigger version of the XL model, offering a larger cooking space to cook food for many people. The larger cooking space allows you to grill 15 sausages and 15 burgers at one go.
ER BBQ had an opportunity to review this portable charcoal grill to help you make a decision when shopping around.
Why Do We Call It Our Most Advanced Pick?
We chose the CosmoGrill Outdoor XXL Grill as our most advanced pick for presenting several features that make cooking a breeze. These include the larger cooking area, more control over the cooking temperature courtesy of the air vents, and the 600D cover to protect it from elements.
It also offers more control over grilling through the variable distribution of heat, making it possible to cook various types of vegetables and meat at a go.
CosmoGrill Outdoor XXL Charcoal Grill Smoker Review
We have tested the different features of the CosmoGrill Outdoor XXL Charcoal Grill Smoker to help you decide when shopping for a charcoal grill.
Design & Build
With a heavy-duty steel construction measuring 55” by 18” by 44” (LWH), this charcoal grill weighs about 30kg. that’s quite a weight but it compensates for this with the two castor wheels and stands to increase portability.
The finish consists of a powder coating to offer resistance against heat and elements. Overall, the CosmoGrill Outdoor XXL Grill offers a sturdy build that’s more durable than many other charcoal grills within its price range.
Power and Control System
Regulating and maintaining the temperature on charcoal grills is usually not that easy. The CosmoGrill Outdoor XXL charcoal grill, however, cleverly handles this. You can keep track of the heat with the help of the temperature indicator on the lid.
For easy control over the amount of heat reaching the food, this charcoal barbecue comes with air vents and a height-adjustable coal tray. The grill’s variable heat distribution also enables the simultaneous cooking of different dishes. The amount of oxygen that enters the coal can be controlled with the air regulation door, which also controls the amount of heat produced.
Cooking space
This grill offers a cooking area of 28.3” by 16.5”, which we found ideal for cooking 15 sausages, 15 burger patties, and a full chicken. Once the food is prepared, you can keep it warm on the warming rack until you’re ready to eat.
Performance
We had expected this charcoal BBQ grill UK unit to work without much trouble and sure it did. We were able to grill some hotdogs and sausages to perfection using different heat management techniques. Unexpectedly, we also smoked some chicken, seared some steaks, and cooked some fish.
To achieve and maintain the desired temperature, you must balance the air vents, the door, and the grilling height. We were able to manage the heat for various sorts of cooking thanks to the air vents, chimney, and door.
Cleaning & Maintenance
The removable ashtray, which enables you to get rid of the ash after each usage, makes cleaning easier. Additionally, the grilling grates can be cleaned with soap and water, although a grill brush is required.
Pros
- A larger cooking area for more food.
- The warming rack keeps food warm until eating time.
- Two foldable side tables.
- Easy to remove ash tray for easy cleaning.
- Temperature control is made easy with the in-built thermometer, chimney, door, and air vents.
- Easy portability due to two wheels.
Cons
- Assembling is a bit difficult and needs at least two people.
- A little difficult to maintain a consistent temperature.
What People Say About
Those who liked the XL model but needed more cooking space for a larger group of people found the CosmoGrill Outdoor XXL charcoal grill a better option. also, Most internet review sites give this charcoal grill a positive review. We found more than 600 5-star ratings when we looked at some Amazon reviews, which is a definite sign that the majority of customers are satisfied.
The adjustable height of the coal tray, the folding side shelves, oven functionality, and big size were some of the features that most purchasers valued.
Our Final Verdict
We found the CosmoGrill Outdoor XXL charcoal grill rather similar in functionality and performance to the XL model. The only exception we noted was in the cooking area, which was a great plus for bigger families.
We found the concept of a height-adjustable coal tray excellent. With this charcoal grill, we were able to grill, smoke, and even sear red meat. But the 1.35kg coal and briquette capacity wasn’t enough. It was also simpler to position and move due to the two wheels and stands. Overall, this charcoal grill’s performance was according to our expectations and we think it can give you a good run for the money.
ER 40020 Smokey Joe Premium 14-Inch Charcoal Grill Review
Amazon Product Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00004RALP/
The ER charcoal grill is a popular BBQ grill in the UK known for its small and compact but portable, size. The ER 40020 Smokey Joe Premium shares the features as the Smoker Joe Original model, but it has a Tuck-Away Lid Holder that locks the grill firmly in position. This enhances safety during transportation.
Feature of ER 40020 Smokey Joe Premium
The ER 40020 Smokey Joe Premium brings on board lots of features that we found very ideal for a small family or buddies on a weekend. These include:
Design and build
The grill has a lightweight design, featuring a circular bowl shape with a porcelain-enamelled finish for both the bowl and the lid. It’s available in different colour finishes, including Smoke, Ivory, Slate Blue, and Spring Green.
Cooking space
The cooking area is about 147 sq. inches consisting of steel plated cooking grates. We tried to grill some food on it and it could hold 5 burgers. We liked the measuring cup included which came in handy for measuring the charcoal.
Temperature control
We didn’t expect some advanced temperature control mechanisms on this unit, since it’s only a charcoal grill. However, the porcelain-enamelled bowl and lid came in handy in reducing heat loss. There’s also a damper that allows controlling the temperature without lifting the lid.
Portability
The Tuck-Away Lid Holder also plays a great role in locking the barbecue tightly for easier and safer transportation. The charcoal grill has a tripod stand that holds it at a favourable height for grilling. Since the grill isn’t heavy, one person can carry it with ease using the lid holder
Pros
- Nylon handles with glass reinforcement for easy transportation.
- 147 sq. inches cooking area.
- Available in 6 different colour finishes.
- Damper on the lid for temperature control.
- Has a tripod stand for easy portability.
Cons
- The assembling instruction is a little confusing.
Final Verdict
If looking for a small charcoal grill that won’t rust, the ER 40020 Smokey Joe Premium is an excellent choice. We liked its small compact design with a porcelain-enamelled finish to prevent heat loss and resist elements. The Tuck-Away Lid Holder came in handy for portability. Generally, it’s the simplest grill you can ever go for grilling in your backyard on weekends. It’s worth the price tag.
Char-Broil 140756 Charcoal Barbecue Grill Review
Amazon Product Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01C2P3DZO/
The Char-Broil 140756 is yet another popular charcoal grill UK brand, known to many for its kettle-like design. Unlike most other grills in the UK market, this one didn’t disappoint as much when it comes to temperature control. That’s because it’s embedded with a thermometer within the lid. It’s a great choice for your chilly weekend mornings in the backyard when craving charcoal-flavoured food.
Feature Details of Char-Broil 140756
Despite Char-Broil Kettleman being an entry-level company when it comes to charcoal grills, this particular model brings lots of features. These include:
Design and build
We were impressed by the Kettleman quality when we unveiled the box. It features a robust and sturdy body with a porcelain coating to retain heat and evenly radiate it all over the body. Weighing about 17kg with a kettle shape, this grill is made from alloy steel to make it more durable.
Temperature control
This charcoal barbecue is the first infrared BBQ in the UK, featuring a zigzag grill for controlling grease drippings while preventing flame flare-ups to burn the food. The porcelain coating body and lid comes in handy to keep the temperature regulated. Plus, the lid has a thermometer for reading the temperature. And the damper allows you to control airflow and heat.
Cooking area
The cooking area is 56cm wide, offering plenty of space to grill two steaks and four sausage rolls. Since the flame doesn’t reach the food, it gives you more control over the heat while also allowing the smokiness and charcoal aroma to reach the food.
Portability
The Char-Broil 140756 Charcoal Barbecue Grill has a tripod stand consisting of two wheels and one fixed leg. Also, the kettle body consists of a plastic coated handle to allow easy movement. With its size of 25.98 x 25.98 x 39.02 inches, we also found it easier to load it on a pickup car.
Pros
- Rust and heat-resistant porcelain coated finish.
- Small compact size with wheels for easy portability.
- Infrared cooking grates to prevent flare-ups and contact with food.
- Has a thermometer on the lid for monitoring temperature.
Cons
- Cleaning the grill after heavy use is quite challenging.
- Maintaining a consistent temperature for a long time is demanding.
Final Verdict
As the only charcoal kettle grill by Char-Broil, we found it much easier to use and can suit anyone getting started with charcoal grilling. Every feature on this grill, such as the infrared cooking grill makes it easier to grill food evenly. Cleaning the grill is also easy after light cooking, otherwise, you have to do lots of work if cooking heavily. We think this charcoal grill is worth the price.
Deuba Foldable Charcoal Grill for Camping Review
Amazon Product Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00J27P84K/
This super flexible and lightweight BBQ grill offers a large cooking area and consistent temperature for cooking a variety of foods. The Deuba Foldable Charcoal Grill is ideal for enjoying charcoal-flavoured foods in your backyard, picnic, camps, or while travelling. This is the best charcoal grill for kebabs on a chilly weekend morning.
Features of Deuba Foldable Charcoal Grill
The Deuba Foldable Charcoal Grill comes with plenty of amazing features to make it easier to grill just anything.
Design and build
This charcoal grill has a sleek stainless steel finish, featuring a cylindrical-shaped design lying horizontally on two stands. It has a folding double grill design with a simple opening and closing style. The Deuba Foldable Charcoal Grill is constructed from heavy-duty stainless steel to make it durable.
Temperature control
The charcoal BBQ grill has air vents for controlling the airflow to the cooking grate without opening the lid. This allows the already attained temperature to be maintained for long while cooking.
Cooking area
You’ll get one portable folding grill measuring 15×10.2×17.7 in and two cooking grill surfaces measuring 14.2×9 in. This is large enough to hold four full chickens and four burgers or sausage rolls.
Portability
The charcoal grill weighs about 7.32 pounds with two stands on each side. One disadvantage of this grill is that it doesn’t have a plastic-coated handle to aid in transportation. We had difficulty moving it and had to wait until it cooled down completely to grab it by the stands.
Pros
- Elegant stainless-steel finish.
- Has air vents for easy temperature control.
- Compact design that saves storage space.
- Offers open and closed grilling.
- Double barbecue griddle.
- Easy to assemble.
Cons
- Although branded as portable, it’s difficult moving it before it cools down completely.
- The stainless-steel finish can be hard to clean after heavy usage.
Final Verdict
The Deuba Foldable Charcoal Grill is one compact and flexible charcoal grill that supports cooking while camping, picnicking, or in the backyard. We loved the simplicity of its assembling process, and the stainless-steel finish looked elegant. The foldable double grill comes in handy, allowing you to cook for large groups. You’ll enjoy light cooking such as grilling and smoking, but searing makes it a little challenging to clean the grill after use. Overall, we think the grill is worth investing in.
George Foreman (GFKTBBQ) 47cm Charcoal Grill Review
Amazon Product Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07D76T6RS/
If you’re looking for a kettle grill that’s ideal for small groups and offers storage convenience, then the George Foreman (GFKTBBQ) charcoal grill is an ideal choice. It not only brings good looks but offers excellent temperature control features at an affordable price.
Features of George Foreman GFKTBBQ
If thinking about going for this charcoal BBQ grill UK brand, here are a few things to take note of when shopping.
Design and build
George Foreman (GFKTBBQ) has a sleek black finish that looks neat. Its looks alone might make you think it costs more than its price tag. The charcoal grill is constructed from steel, featuring a bowl and lid, which makes the kettle design.
Cooking area
This portable charcoal grill offers a cooking area with a 45cm diameter which can hold one full chicken and 4 hotdogs or sausages. In our opinion, this is enough for a small group, but if you need to cook more, you’re better off finding a larger grill.
Temperature control
George Foreman (GFKTBBQ) charcoal grill is also another kettle grill with a thermometer on its lid for monitoring the heat level. Its powder-coated body also plays a great role in maintaining the heat. But if you need to reduce the temperature a bit, you can tighten the damper to restrict airflow into the grill.
Portability
This charcoal has a sturdy feel since it’s supported by four legs with two hind legs consisting of wheels for portability. However, the wheels are made of plastic and are a bit bog-standard hence wobbly after screwing into place.
Cleaning
At the bottom of the bowl, there’s an ash pit that collects the ash when cooking. We liked the idea of a filer inside the kettle to keep off larger charcoal bits from going into the ash collector. After cooling, the collector is removable to dispose of the ash. The cooking grate is also made of steel for easy cleaning after use.
Pros
- Powder-coated finish reduces heat loss.
- Small compact size for small gatherings.
- Regulates heat perfectly for long cooking sessions.
- Has two wheels for easy portability.
- The cooking area is ideal for preparing food for 2-3 people.
Cons
- The lid is a little fiddly and can make it difficult to cook properly.
- The handle can get very hot.
Final Verdict
We found its height a little low and it gave us some difficulty cooking. This, however, will generally depend on the height of the cook. It performed wonderfully when grilling and smoking, although searing was quite a challenge due to the problem of maintaining a high temperature for a long time. For a budget kettle grill, we think George Foreman (GFKTBBQ) charcoal grill is worth the price tag.
Concluding Our Best Charcoal Grills Review
Charcoal grills are great for allowing the cook more control over how the food is cooked. All the above charcoal grills we have reviewed performed excellently. We recommend picking your preferred option depending on the convenience level and the number of people you intend to cook for.
All our recommended charcoal grills offer excellent portability and safety options, with more control over the cooking process. And ensure the coal is completely off and the grill is cleaned for storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Clean My Charcoal Grill?
It’s best to clean a charcoal grill every time you’re done with cooking. Clean the grates with a wire brush while it is still warm.
How Far from My Home Should I Place My Charcoal Grill?
The recommended distance for placing the grill from any structure is 10 feet away. Always avoid flammable overhangs like awnings.
Can I Use a Charcoal Grill in My Fireplace?
Yes, it’s completely safe to use your charcoal grill in the fireplace. But take caution to ensure no flammable objects are nearby.
How Do You Do Indirect Cooking with a Charcoal Grill?
Use red hot coal piled at both ends of the grill while leaving a space at the centre. Place the cooking grate on the grill and your food at the centre to achieve indirect cooking.
What Do I Need to Know About Charcoal Grills?
Charcoal grills with intake air vent and exhaust at the top and bottom are ideal for promoting even cooking. That’s because these features allow sufficient airflow into the grill, creating a balanced heat. Always consider this when shopping for a charcoal grill.
