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You just can’t beat the taste that comes from cooking a meal on a charcoal grill. The smoke-infused flavors and delicious aromas make cooking on a charcoal grill a popular American pastime. There’s no need to confine your enjoyment to the backyard since purchasing a portable charcoal grill allows you to enjoy a delicious BBQ meal wherever you go.
We love the ability to pick up a portable grill at a moment’s notice, traveling to a tailgating party or a campsite to cook up burgers and sausages whenever the opportunity arises. Read on for our pick for the best Portable Charcoal Grill on the market.
In A Rush? Check Out Our Top Choice!
- Unique ash management system for an easy cleanup
- Efficient convection cooking effect
- Hinged cooking grate for adding charcoal
This incredible portable charcoal grill more than justifies its price tag with a range of stunning features. The convection grilling system provides consistent results so you can enjoy tasty meats every time, while the removable Durabilium shelves create a spacious weatherproof workspace. The rustproof materials help keep your grill in great condition even when grilling in inclement weather.
While there are many terrific models available, our pick for the best portable charcoal grill on the market is the Portable Kitchen PK360 Cast Aluminum Charcoal Grill.
Top 11 Best Portable Charcoal Grill Reviews
This excellent model uses ALUMINUM CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL combined with a 316 stainless steel hinged cooking grid to ensure this is one of the most robust portable charcoal grills available.
You can easily adjust the grate to add charcoal to the firepit without removing the entire main cooking grill, making it simple to add fuel when you need more heat.
We like the intelligent 4 point venting system that allows precise temperature control. You can adjust the 2 upper and 2 lower vents to cook hot and fast or take your time to slow cook on a pleasant sunny day.
After grilling, there is no need to dread tidying the BBQ since this model has a detachable lid and efficient ash catching clean up system to help keep your grill in pristine condition.
Who Should Get This?
This is the best portable charcoal barbecue and ticks just about every portable grilling box. Buy this model to invest in quality materials that produce outstanding grilling results.
Pros
- Uses premium quality materials
- 360in² cooking surface area
- Integrated side handle hooks
Cons
- Comes with a high-end price tag
There is no need to sacrifice quality when investing in a portable charcoal grill. This affordable model has a black enamel finish inside and out, fused to the steel to reduce rust and peeling risk.
Although the grilling surface area is smaller than many rival models, you can prepare up to 6 burgers at one time, allowing you to prepare tasty meats and vegetables for small to medium-sized parties.
There are integrated steel legs that allow you to place the grill on the ground when cooking, which is handy when you’re BBQing.
We found it easy to move this grill to different locations using the 3 glass-reinforced nylon handles that prevent users from burning their hands during transportation.
Who Should Get This?
You can prepare great-tasting meats and vegetables on this affordable portable charcoal cooking grill. This is the ideal choice if you’re shopping on a budget.
Pros
- Lightweight design for transportation
- Rust-resistant material for increased lifespan
- Heavy-duty steel legs for extra stability
Cons
- Relatively small 160in² cooking surface area
Choose between the graphite and classic silver color schemes to make your grill stand out, and use the cart for grilling while standing. If you prefer, there is also the option to lift the grid off the frame for cooking at lower levels.
We found this useful during transportation as our car trunk wasn’t large enough to accommodate the cart. We were able to take the grill section to the beach and use one of the tables provided rather than abandoning the BBQ idea altogether.
There is a cavernous lid with air venting, improving circulation for improved temperature control, and grilling results. Because you can use direct or indirect cooking methods, this model is ideal for slow and fast grilling.
Who Should Get This?
The more time you spend cooking on the same portable charcoal grill, the better the results. This model can provide delicious meals for many years.
Pros
- Venting system for precise temperature control
- Detachable hood for ease of cleaning
- Grills lifts off the cart for increased portability
Cons
- Not the most stylish portable charcoal grill
This portable charcoal grill is sure to draw attention at any campsite or tailgating party. While there are other colors available, we loved the bright orange design, and it was certainly different from every other grill in the area.
Although the cooking surface area is relatively small, it’s possible to grill 4 burgers simultaneously. The firebox has a durable porcelain-enamel coating, which also provides heat quickly, so you can cook burgers for one group and then prepare another batch shortly afterward.
There is a handy bamboo food preparation area, so you can butter buns and slice vegetables without leaving the grill unattended, and the included trays are useful when serving. We like the heat protection shield that reduces the risk of accidentally burning the surface you are using to hold the BBQ when grilling. We recommend this model as the best small tabletop charcoal grill.
Who Should Get This?
While thoroughly preparing delicious meals is the main task of any portable charcoal grill, this doesn’t mean it can’t look fantastic. This model is a stunning combination of substance and style.
Pros
- Comes with food-grade storage trays
- High-quality porcelain-enameled firebox
- Chrome handles for maneuverability
Cons
- No cart or supporting legs with this grill
This model isn’t just a grill; you can also use it as a cooler on a hot day. The charcoal grill section comes with a lid, and it sits underneath the cooler for easy mobility.
There is an included shoulder strap on the carry bag, allowing you to carry this grill even when on a hike. We found the water-resistant and insulated PVC liner to be effective for keeping drinks and meats cold, which is excellent if you need to travel to reach your grilling location.
There is plenty of additional storage space for carrying accessories, although this grill comes with a 3 piece BBQ set included. The zippered pockets are ideal for holding watches and phones out of the way so you can enjoy a day in nature while using your portable charcoal grill.
Who Should Get This?
This portable charcoal grill is ideal for those who value convenience. The ability to carry many BBQ accessories in the carry bag is a superb option when outdoor grilling.
Pros
- Comes with 3 piece BBQ toolset
- Included bag for easy carrying
- The charcoal grill has a useful lid
Cons
- Not everyone needs all the available options
Bring a taste of Asia to your outdoor charcoal grilling experience with this Yakatori tabletop charcoal grill. This model uses a unique ceramic clay construction for improved heat transference and grilling some of the most tender and juicy meats imaginable.
The internal charcoal grates ensure the heat is consistent throughout the cooking chamber, eliminating the presence of hot and cold spots that could affect the taste and texture of your meal. If you prefer to be hands-on when grilling, there is adjustable ventilation, allowing you to control the cooking area’s heat level.
We were amazed at how compact this unit is, despite it still accommodating up to 6 burgers simultaneously. This model also weighs a mere 20 lbs., making it easy to transport to the grilling area.
Who Should Get This?
Using different construction materials, this portable charcoal grill brings a new cooking style to the market. Buy this to experiment with your outdoor grilling style.
Pros
- Maintains a consistent cooking temperature
- Holds up to 6 burgers simultaneously
- Compact space-saving design
Cons
- Color may not be the same as on the website
Weber is a legendary name in the portable charcoal grilling world, and this model lives up to its lofty standards. We were skeptical that such a compact model would hold up to nine burgers at a time, but we could easily fit that many on to the spacious cooking surface area.
The corrosion-resistant porcelain-enameled bowl and lid have a sturdy feel, and the aluminum dampers and ash catcher are also rust-resistant for an extended lifespan. The Jumbo Joe Tuck-N-Carry lid lock was secure during a reasonably lengthy car journey, and we found it easy to use the large carrying handle on arrival at our destination.
Weber grills are easy to clean, and a wipe with a damp cloth quickly returned this model to its shiny and sleek appearance. This is our pick for the best large portable charcoal grill.
Who Should Get This?
One of the great joys of outdoor charcoal grilling is the ability to venture into nature and cook in new locations. This model is easy to transport to any grilling area.
Pros
- Plated steel cooking grate material
- Stylish black and silver color scheme
- Generous 240in² cooking surface area
Cons
- Some assembly required on delivery
It’s essential to have a durable grill that can provide consistent performance over time. This Weber heavy-duty grate is built to last, and the superior plated steel material is easy to clean after use. The bowl uses premium-grade US steel, and the black porcelain enamel finish protects the unit from early deterioration.
The glass-reinforced nylon handle is heat resistant when grilling at high temperatures, and the Weber venting system gives you precise control over the grilling heat.
The three supporting legs use a tripod configuration to provide increased stability, even when cooking on uneven surfaces. This feature is superb when grilling on the grass at a campsite as the legs also hold the grill’s base away from the ground.
Who Should Get This?
Some portable grills can be relatively large and challenging to transport. However, this model has a compact design and produces great tasting meats and vegetables.
Pros
- Durable aluminum ash catcher for quick clean up
- Increased airflow for better BBQ results
- Cook up to 7 burgers at once
Cons
- May not be large enough for some BBQ enthusiasts
We like that this portable charcoal grill also has a 203.5in² cooking surface area, which is more than enough to grill for a large gathering. You can use the included carrying case to transport this grill to the campsite or tailgate party and unfold it on arrival.
Because the unit only weighs 11 lbs., it is possible to carry this unit over long distances, which is useful if you’re away on a camping weekend in the outdoors. Despite the compact size, this grill holds up to eight burgers at a time.
The sturdy support structure reduces the risk of the unit falling over, and the slimline design provides a striking, eye-catching appearance. We found the painted steel exterior to be an effective protective coating, and you can expect this grill to provide many years of excellent service.
Who Should Get This?
It can be challenging to find the right spot to set up your portable charcoal grill, but this model has a stable base that makes it ideal for use in any campsite.
Pros
- Robust painted steel exterior
- Economy design is more affordable
- Carrying case included
Cons
- Does not have side shelves
We managed to assemble this high-quality grill in less than 10 minutes using only a screwdriver. As we’re not DIY-minded, we can assure you this is an easy-to-assemble grill. There is an intelligent dual venting system that provides superior temperature control, and it is possible to grill quickly or slowly on this one unit.
three secure latches keep the lid fastened during transportation, and the ASH COLLECTION TRAY is easy to access. You can quickly clean up any excess mess after use, so there is no need to spend hours cleaning your grill.
Although this is a practical grill with a robust design, it also comes with a stylish, attractive red lid that is pleasing to the eye.
Who Should Get This?
If you’re grilling in an area far from your vehicle, you don’t want to carry a heavy portable charcoal grill. This lightweight model is the ideal choice for easy transportation.
Pros
- Attention-grabbing stylish red lift-off lid
- Cook for up to 4 people at one time
- Easy to operate ventilation system
Cons
- Not as easy to transport as some rival grills
11. Texas Original Pits Ranger 16x26 Camper Grill: Best for Versatility
The supportive round base design provides extra stability wherever you place your grill. At 125 lbs., it’s considerably heavier than many other grills, but this feature also reduces the risk of accidentally knocking over the grill. When tailgating, you can also use the Reese style Hitch Tailgator attachment to connect to a truck for greater stability.
Because this model has SUPERIOR HEAT RETENTION, you can quickly grill burgers and steaks to keep the party going. The stay-cool spring lid handle allows you to check on the grilling progress, while the integrated grease drain pipe reduces the risk of a flare-up that could char your food.
This feature is also invaluable for making the after-party clean up as easy as possible, as there is less excess grease that can cling to the inside of the firebox. This grill is incredibly versatile and is undoubtedly the best portable charcoal grill for rv use.
Who Should Get This?
Part of the enjoyment of cooking using a charcoal grill is the ability to enjoy the company of friends and family. You can take this grill with you wherever you go.
Pros
- Suitable for the backyard and tailgating
- Stay cool lid handle
- Comes with built-in grease drain pipe
Cons
- Relatively heavy portable charcoal grill
Final Verdict: Best Portable Charcoal Grill For Your Money
There are numerous excellent portable charcoal grills available. We had a lot of fun testing these models, and we’re glad to say some grills can meet every cooking need and budget. While every grill comes with superb features, we couldn’t overlook one model that stands head and shoulders above its rivals.
With a generously-sized grilling surface area, extra workspace capacity, a high-quality ventilation system, and easy maneuverability, look no further than the Portable Kitchen PK360 Cast Aluminum Charcoal Grill.
