Charcoal grilling has long been celebrated for the deep flavors and smoky aromas it imparts to food. For those who appreciate a classic grilling experience, small charcoal grills are a practical choice, offering the same rich taste in a more compact form. These grills are ideal for urban living, camping trips, or simply for anyone with limited outdoor space. They allow us to enjoy a barbecue without the need for a full-sized grill, making them both versatile and convenient.
Best Small Charcoal Grills
1. Weber Smokey Joe 14-Inch Portable Grill
This compact grill is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want quality grilling on the go.
We recently took the Weber Smokey Joe on a camping adventure. Its lightweight frame made it effortless to carry, and we appreciated the compact design that didn’t take up much space in our gear. We were able to grill several burgers simultaneously, making it a real convenience for our outdoor meal.
The construction quality stands out. The porcelain-enameled lid and bowl effectively retain heat, ensuring our food cooked evenly. The dampers provided reliable temperature control, making it easy to adjust heat levels during grilling.
Cleaning was straightforward as well, thanks to the plated steel cooking grate. It’s a grill made for those who enjoy casual outings without sacrificing performance. While the cooking surface might not be ideal for larger groups, it's perfect for intimate gatherings or family meals.
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2. Cuisinart 14" Portable Charcoal Grill
We feel confident recommending the Cuisinart 14" Portable Charcoal Grill for anyone looking for a compact grilling solution that doesn’t compromise on performance.
Using the Cuisinart 14" Portable Charcoal Grill was a revelation for our outdoor gatherings. Setting it up was straightforward, though we encountered some hiccups with the assembly—taking the time to properly follow the steps made a big difference. Once assembled, this grill easily found a spot on our patio and proved to be a reliable option when tailgating or camping.
The performance truly impressed us. The dual venting system made a noticeable difference in controlling the heat, enabling us to achieve everything from slow-cooked ribs to quick searing hot dogs for a crowd. The 196 square inches of grilling space comfortably accommodated burgers, veggies, and more, allowing us to grill for family or friends without feeling cramped.
Cleaning was a breeze, thanks to the accessible ash catcher. After our grilling sessions, a simple removal of the ash box was all it took for cleanup. While the grill is lightweight and easy to transport or store, we found the metal to be a tad flimsy at times, but it held up through our uses without major issues. Overall, this grill has become a staple for our outdoor cooking adventures.
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3. Oklahoma Joe's Rambler Tabletop Charcoal Grill
This compact grill combines functionality and portability, making it a solid choice for small gatherings.
Using the Oklahoma Joe's Rambler has enhanced our outdoor cooking experience. We appreciate its solid construction and compact size, which makes it easy to move for tailgating or camping trips. Setting it up was straightforward, although it took some care to ensure everything fit well.
The cooking area, though modest, accommodates a decent amount of food. We often grill six burgers or four steaks at a time, which is sufficient for our small gatherings. The cast-iron grates are particularly impressive; they leave attractive grill marks and retain heat exceptionally well.
Temperature management is another feature we enjoy. With the adjustable charcoal tray, we can easily control the heat, allowing for both high-heat searing and lower, indirect cooking. Cleanup is quite simple, thanks to the removable ash pan. Overall, the Oklahoma Joe's Rambler proves to be a reliable and effective choice for anyone looking for a small charcoal grill.
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4. Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill
This grill delivers excellent performance and flavor, making it a solid choice for those with limited outdoor space.
Using the Char-Griller Patio Pro has been a game-changer for our small outdoor cooking setup. It manages to combine compactness with functionality, allowing us to grill and smoke without feeling cramped. Despite its size, the 250 square inches of cooking area has handled more than we expected, easily accommodating burgers, veggies, and even a small chicken.
The heavy-duty steel construction instills confidence in its durability, and the cast iron grates have been outstanding for achieving that perfect sear. Cleanup is straightforward with the easy dump ash pan, making it less of a chore to maintain after an enjoyable grilling session.
There are some drawbacks worth noting. A few users have mentioned peeling paint after their first use, suggesting that proper seasoning could mitigate this. Additionally, while assembly isn’t overly complicated, having the right tools handy can smooth the process. For larger gatherings or if cooking for a crowd, this grill might feel limiting, so we recommend keeping that in mind.
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5. Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill
For those in need of a portable grill without sacrificing quality, this compact Weber model fits the bill perfectly.
Using the Weber Go-Anywhere charcoal grill has truly transformed our grilling experiences on the go. Its lightweight and compact design make it simple to transport, whether we're headed to a picnic or setting up at a campsite. We appreciate how its rectangular shape fits easily in the trunk, allowing us to take our BBQ skills anywhere.
The grilling area is surprisingly spacious, providing ample space for cooking up to six burgers simultaneously. The coated steel grate is easy to clean, making post-cooking clean-up hassle-free. We especially enjoy the lid lock feature which keeps everything securely in place, even while we navigate bumpy roads.
While it excels in many aspects, we’ve noted that it does require charcoal, which can be a bit inconvenient for spontaneous outings. Additionally, compared to larger models, the cooking surface is more limited, so large gatherings might require multiple grilling sessions. Overall, the Weber Go-Anywhere is a solid choice for those who prioritize portability and quality in a compact grill.
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6. Weber Smokey Joe Premium Grill
This compact grill is perfect for on-the-go cooking, and we can confidently say it’s worth considering for anyone who needs portability without sacrificing grilling quality.
Using the Weber Smokey Joe Premium for our recent picnic was a great decision. It heats up quickly, allowing us to grill burgers with ease, and the lid locks make it simple to manage while cooking outside. The compact size fits perfectly in our car, and we appreciated not having to lug around a bulky grill.
Setting it up was straightforward. The assembly instructions bundled with the BILT app are a nice touch, guiding us step-by-step. Once set up, the grill felt sturdy, providing us with a solid cooking surface.
Temperature control was impressive, thanks to the dampers, though the vent mechanism could require a bit of practice. Overall, this grill is an ideal pick for quick trips or casual backyard events. Its efficient design and thoughtful features enhance our outdoor cooking experience.
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7. Weber Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill
This grill is a solid choice for anyone seeking a small charcoal grill with robust features and user-friendly operation.
Using the Weber Performer Deluxe has truly enhanced our grilling experience. The gas ignition system is a game-changer—just a push of the button and the charcoal ignites effortlessly. This feature is a lot less messy and time-consuming than traditional methods.
We've found the cooking area to be spacious enough for everything from burgers to veggies, and the additional workspace really comes in handy. The gourmet cooking grates allow us to explore different cooking techniques with ease.
Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the One-Touch cleaning system. When we're finished grilling, we simply remove the high-capacity ash catcher and dispose of the ashes without hassle. Overall, the Performer Deluxe combines functionality and quality in a compact package.
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8. Char-Griller® AKORN® Jr. Grill
This compact charcoal grill serves up great flavor without taking up too much space, making it ideal for smaller gatherings.
The Char-Griller AKORN Jr. Kamado has become our go-to for grilling, thanks to its robust design and superior heat retention. We appreciate the dual dampers that allow for excellent airflow control while cooking. This feature really helps to maintain consistent temperatures, whether we're grilling burgers or smoking ribs.
Set up was straightforward, which is always a plus in our busy lives. The lightweight structure and built-in handles make it easy to transport to picnics or camping trips. It's not just about mobility; the quality of the construction gives us confidence that it will hold up during use.
Cleanup is a breeze with its easy dump ash pan, letting us spend more time enjoying our meals instead of scrubbing. We noticed that the cast iron grates provide a nice sear while minimizing flare-ups. That said, we've had some issues with rust appearing on the grates, so considering stainless options could be worthwhile if you're planning to use it frequently.
In all, the Char-Griller AKORN Jr. Kamado is a solid investment for anyone seeking a small, efficient charcoal grill. It balances portability with performance well, making it a reliable choice for our outdoor cooking needs.
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Buying Guide
When choosing a small charcoal grill, we should consider several important features to ensure we make the right choice.
Size and Portability
- Weight: Look for a grill that is lightweight for easy transportation.
- Grilling Area: Ensure the cooking surface meets our needs for the number of people we typically serve.
Construction Material
- Durability: Materials like stainless steel or cast iron offer better longevity.
- Heat Retention: Good materials enhance heat distribution and can improve cooking efficiency.
Ease of Use
- Assembly: Check if the grill is easy to assemble with minimal tools.
- Ventilation: Adjustable vents help control the temperature, making grilling more manageable.
Cleaning and Maintenance
- Removable Grates: Grills with removable and dishwasher-safe grates simplify cleaning.
- Ash Management: A collection system for ash allows for easy disposal and makes cleanup quicker.
Additional Features
- Temperature Gauge: Built-in thermometers help monitor cooking temperatures more accurately.
- Storage Options: Side shelves and hooks add convenience for tools and food preparation.
Budget
- Price Range: Determine our budget and explore options within that range to find the best value.
- Warranty: A solid warranty can indicate manufacturer confidence in their product quality.
Conclusion
There are rather many benefits of working with a charcoal grill when compared with your gas grill. A charcoal grill may hold continuous temperatures for a prolonged interval provided that the flame is tended equally and airflow managed nicely. Together with the above details about the best small charcoal grills on the current market, you don’t have any reason for not possessing a grill.
