10 Best Charcoal Grills 2025 in the United States

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 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 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.