Top Rated 9 Best Small Charcoal Grills [May 2021]

There are lots of people who look for a small and portable charcoal grill due to lots of reasons. The prime reason is the lack of space, which makes owning big size charcoal grill hassle filled. 

However charcoal grills come in different sizes, features and types. So you can also own a charcoal grill, even if you don’t have enough space. There are lots of options introduced in the market. You can simply buy the best small charcoal grill, which is both affordable and efficient.

Well, selecting the best one might be time consuming process for you. So to make it simple and easier, we have done the research and listed the best options you want to try or to consider for the purchase.

Best Small Charcoal Grills Reviewed

1. Char-Griller 6714 Akorn Jr Kamado Kooker Charcoal Grill

With Char Griller 6714, you can get the experience of cooking in kamado style. Not just you get much better options in cooking different dishes, but also you can make an ideal food for various suitable events. This option also suits those who have budget to follow.

However, this unit is not big; it’s just around half of the size. You can cook for a handful of people, family and friends for particular get together parties. With this charcoal grill, you get the high-end materials used and assurance of durability. 

Choosing this one might be a great deal if you are not able to buy the original Akron kamado. 

The weight of this grill is 37 pounds, which makes it extremely light in weight. Due to the weight and portability, the grill is ideal for those who love to make camping or road trips. You can easily carry this one without any trouble.

Also, you get the cooking area of 153 square inches. However, this is not enough for large families. But for three or four people, the charcoal grill can do the work. Also, the grates are pure cast iron, so there are chances of getting rust. But if you maintain it, they will work for the long run.

To make it easy, there are switches for temperature control. One is available on top, and the next is on the bottom. It makes sure that the airflow distribution is even. Also, you get the temperature range, which falls between 200- and 700-degrees Fahrenheit.

The unit is sturdy and strong built. You also get features like dump ash pan so you can do the easy cleaning.

Features Of This Charcoal Grill

2. Cuisinart CCG-100 GrateLifter Portable Charcoal Grill

There are so many reasons why Cuisinart CCG 100 is the perfect for small size charcoal grill. This unit is ideal if you are looking for a charcoal grill for a beach trip, tailgating, camping, family picnic etc.

The unit comes with a unique briefcase style that has colour, which is eye-catching and stands out from other charcoal grills in the market. The charcoal grill is affordable but also features a grate that allows you to place vegetables, bacon and meat. 

The lift system whereas allows the access of the charcoal, so you don’t have to touch the grate while cooking. The space for cooking is porcelain enamel coated and covered with the green in colour on the heavy lid. Space is enough to adjust four burger sizes.  

To control the heat and distribution, you get the temperature gauge inbuilt on the top of the unit for monitoring. The assembling process is simple, and instructions are easy to follow. Apart from that, the airflow system is convenient and hassle-free.

However, the distribution of weight is not well, which causes the tilt and stumble. Also, the legs are for standing most of the time, which kills the portability. Apart from that, there are few fixing you might have to do on your own.

Features Of This Charcoal Grill

3. Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill

Weber is one of the highly recommended charcoal grill brands in the market. The cooking area is 363 square inches and easily fit more than 13 burgers.

You get the bowl and lid with porcelain enamelled, which do the excellent work in keeping the rust away. Also, it prevents peeling off. The circular shape keeps the heat circulation better and offers excellent results. The grates are easy to clean and durable.

Apart from that, you get the hinges for making the charcoal grate accessible. For adjusting the temperature and control, the dampers are attached. It also helps in cooking the meats perfectly. The dampers are rustproof and aluminium construction.

For the best cleaning and maintenance every time, the unit has the one-touch cleaning system. By this, the dust and ashes get store in one place. So when you are done with cooking, you can easily throw them away. Also, the grill can quickly move as there are durable wheels attached.

The unit also has a heat shield. It’s advisable to use gloves when you are dealing with this grill to prevent any kind of burn. The hook with the grill allows you to put the lid comfortably there.

Features Of This Charcoal Grill

4. Lodge Cast Iron Sportsman’s Grill

The iron sportsman grill is compact in design. Also, due to the small size, the unit is ideal for a portable barbecue. So if you don’t have space, this charcoal grill is the right choice for you. Along with that, the grill is reasonably priced and on the go model. The unit is still manufactured in the US.

Most of the part used for construction is cast iron which keeps the heat retention better. In simpler words, the grill can produce much better heat without needing too much charcoal.

Cleaning is vital in order to prevent rust and for long run results. That’s why store your grill in a dry place.

The grill can cook faster with high temperatures in heat. The sportsman works impressively if you are looking for grilling steaks and burgers. Apart from that, the cooking grid leaves a beautiful sear mark, which makes the meat look really amazing.

A grill is a good option for 2 or 4 people cooking capacity. You can directly use the grill without spending time on assembling. The adjusting temperatures are also easy, and It performs very well. You can cook meat and fish on this grill. Here you get the smoky flavour with the beautiful sear.

Features Of This Charcoal Grill

5. Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill 18 Inch Black

One of the most sold charcoal grills, weber kettle, is portable and compact. Also, its a reintroduction of its older version in the grill. However, they changed the bottom vent and added better features with jumbo joe.

Even the size is small, but the grill gives the larger and fuller version for cooking space. However, if you are planning to cook a whole chicken, then it might be not possible due to the height of the grill. But the grill can adjust large roasts and poultry.

Apart from the size, the model is somewhat similar to the previous smoke joes. The unit has nylon handle and sturdy glasses. Also, you get the porcelain enamel lid and bowl too. It has lid-mounted vents and the design of three legs. For easy transport, you get the tuck and carry lid holder.

The lid and base carry a superb quality. The coating and the construction keep the grill in the long run. You also get excellent control over the heat and temperatures.

Features Of This Charcoal Grill

6. Char-Griller Box Charcoal Grill

The perfect combination of sturdy grill, heavy-duty but with compact and portability. Char griller E22424 is known as ‘ man’s kitchen’ grill. The unit gives a macho look along with a steel barrel.

Here you get the space of 240 square inches for cooking. The grill is pretty big if you are considering the tabletop grills. Also, you get the sliding drawer, which allows the charcoal access.

However, the grill is considered as light in weight, but the weight you get is 40 pounds. Well, it’s not that light, but it’s not heavy either. For the cleaning easy, the removable ash pan is added to the model. Just use warm water and cloth for getting the new as ever look.

Features Of This Charcoal Grill

7. Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill

If you are looking for the best value charcoal grill on the market, this one is for you. The grill delivers satisfying results; even the price is really affordable. The weber go anywhere has lots of features that they added. 

The design and style are incredibly portable, which makes the grill compact. The grill can quickly cook more than six burgers and large steaks along with easy grills. For cleaning, you can easily remove the cooking grate as well.

The legs come with a locking mechanism so that transportation can be easy. This grill can lock the standing position and hold the lid tight on its place. The grill comes assembled almost; you can start your grill without wasting time.

 The grate is durable and plated steel to keep the distribution of heat balanced. Also, it prevents the rust away from the grill to make it work in the long run.

Features Of This Charcoal Grill

8. Weber 10020 Smokey Joe 14-Inch Portable Grill

The small size in this grill makes it perfect for travelling. Along with that, you get enough space to cook for a decent amount of people. Also, the weight and dimension keep the Smokey joe compatible with travel adventures. The grill is light in weight and portable as well.

The unit Is small; you can cook for at least one to three people without any hassle. The Smokey Joe has the ease of movements so you can carry it. The overall weights are 10 Ibs, and the measurement is somewhat 15.6 by 15.6 by 9 inches. 

Due to this, the grill can be easily packed and carry even the space is small. The cooking area gives you enough space to cook six burgers and three steaks, at least. 

The bowl and lid are porcelain-coated, which offers two things. It includes the equal distribution of heat and smoke. Due to which the food get better cooking and takes less time. Next, it helps in keeping the rust away from the bowl so the grill can work better.

The grill has the durability and sturdy glass. It comes with a nylon handle to keep the holding secure.

Features Of This Charcoal Grill

9. Char-Broil Portable Tabletop Charcoal Grill

Char broil portable tabletop is one of the ideal choices in a charcoal grill, especially if you are looking for something which can easily set up and quick too.

For the grill, you can use lump charcoal and charcoal briquettes as per your convenience. Also, there is enough space to cook for a family or a bunch of friends. With the charcoal, you get the 190 square inches, chrome-plated steel with wire grates for cooking.

 The grill is more comfortable to set up as you can fold it up when you need it and start the grill. To protect the handles are heat resistance so you can work without any hassle.

Here you also get the durability as the steel construction used is rust preventing, which helps in extending life.

Due to the size, the grill is perfect to set it up any intimate settings so you can get the ideal grilled food every time.

Features Of This Charcoal Grill

Buyer’s guide

Grilling is an integral part of making the summers worthwhile. No matter you are cooking hot dogs or chicken, nothing can beat the owning a grill. Well, the market is loaded with different types of grills, features and price range; some true BBQ lovers are still devoted to the charcoal grills.

If you count yourself one, then here are a few things you might need before you buy your best portable charcoal grill.

Why you need the charcoal grill?

The first question you must know the answer is – why you even need a charcoal grill?

Well, the smoky flavour and rich flavours are the reasons most of the people choose charcoal grill over other types. The charcoal grill can turn meats into delicious, juicy and surprisingly much better in taste. However, it’s not the only reason why people prefer the charcoal grill; here are few more to consider barbecue charcoal grills.

Charcoal is traditional

Lots of people don’t switch because they are familiar with charcoal grill since they were kids. Charcoal grills are classic, and the concept is much easier to understand. 

The grills are connected to old memories and recreating all those flavours is fun and memorable as an adult. Obviously, you wanted to pass or share your memories with your family and friends.

Heat

Those who tried gas or electric grills will understand the difficulty level in reaching specific heat temperature. Charcoal grill, whereas performing much better in this scenario. 

With these grills, you can get a high temperature and heats more quickly. With the high heat, you get the perfect crisp outside of your meat. Also, it doesn’t affect the flavour,

Portability & Price

Charcoal grills have tons of options when it comes to sizes, features, types etc. So you always have opportunities to compare and to consider buying the perfect charcoal grill.

If you are not looking big size backyard grills that requires budget as well as space, here you get best mini charcoal grill too. Also, the grills are easy on the budget. So you don’t have to worry about how much you are spending.

What to consider when you buy a charcoal grill?

Well, different people have different requirements and priorities. When you are going to buy your ideal charcoal grill, you must know which factors to consider so you won’t end up with something you don’t need.

Your budget

Budget is the most common yet essential factor here. Even if you are not from this category, still setting your budget should be your concern. In this way, you know what you are paying and why. Setting your budget also narrow down your requirements and expectation from the grill you are buying. 

If you want surface much larger for cooking but you are not into paying too much. For that, you can choose the barrel grills. Not just barrel grills are not as costly as the kettle grills but also gives better area for cooking.

If you are expending your budget, you can find larger cooking space, study construction and better flavour production in your charcoal grill.

Size of the grill

Here you get two critical considerations – how big grill you are looking and the cooking surface.

Understand where you are going to use your grill will help in choosing the size. If you are looking for small size charcoal grill for camping or taking it over to your friend’s house, you are going to need something which is portable and light in weight. But if you have the designated space in your home, then the grill you choose must fit the location.

The uses in cooking

Depending on what you are cooking and for whom is the best way to find the charcoal grill. Kamado grills are better in option if you want a sophisticated and little bit extra than cooking hot dogs or burgers.

Whereas for slow cook and smoke, bullet and barrel grill is highly recommended. To get a grill that covers most of the points, the ceramic grill can be the lifesaver. However, you are going to need to make little investment here. 

Ceramic grills allow you to cook almost everything from baking bread to pizza. As for kamado grills, its much recommended for those who like the meats flavoured and better in texture.

Cleaning and maintenance

A charcoal grill is no doubt the best option for the grill; however, the major drawback is the cleaning and maintenance section. Charcoal is messy and requires attention. However, the manufactures add different helping tools along with the charcoal grills, so this hassle filled work can be easier. 

Some charcoal grills have hinged or extra grates so you can add the charcoal when needed. Also, you can avoid moving food or grates while doing that. Some grills have ash catcher, which is easy to remove. By this, you can remove all the ash produces after the cooking or during the process.

Safety and durability

Follow the instructions and all the required safety tips before you start the grill. Once you are done the cooking, make sure you dump the ashes when they are extinguished completely. Also, keep the dampers open during the cooking process.

To make sure that the charcoal grillwork for the long run, keep it maintained and clean properly. Also, you can invest in the brand to enjoy more features as well.

Temperature control

If you are a home griller, your temperature control is one of the most important factors to consider. The lid is crucial for controlling the temperature. Make sure that the lid is tight-fitting no matter what you choose.

 Also, your grill at least has two dampers, which gives you power over the temperature. Some grills have the option of adjusting the coals. So you can control the heat and how much you want it to exposed to your food.

What features and accessories you need to look for?

The best charcoal grill must have all the features you are looking for so you can get the perfect results at the end. Investing your money without knowing what features your grill is offering might cause disappointment.

Multiple sections: Well, there are some larger cooking surface grills which offer the multis section like feature, here you can use different levels for cooking more. if you have small numbers in people, you can opt for one section

Quality grates: The grates are an important part of the grill. It doesn’t matter the model you chose, but make sure the grates are made with good quality in material. The grates decided how long you can use the grill without any hassle

Ash catcher: These days, most of the grill offers ash catcher. It’s an additional feature that helps to collect the ashes while cooking. With this, you don’t have to worry about cleaning. Also, the pan is removable, which makes the work much hassle-free.

Thermometer: No matter what you are cooking, understanding the heat is important. To get the best results, this information will help a lot. For that, make sure your grill includes a thermometer, which monitors the temperature inside the grill.

Adjustable: Another most important features you must look when you are buying your charcoal grill. This feature allows you to adjust the charcoals on the surface. You can easily set the charcoal and how far you want it from your food. It helps in getting better heat precision.

FAQs

There are lots of questions going inside the head when you are looking for perfect small size charcoal grills. Here we have collected a few of them with the answers to help you out!

Conclusion

Finding the best small charcoal grill might take time. But understanding few things to get the conclusion will help. It includes a number of features, design, portability, quality, ease, cleaning etc. Apart from that, the grill should allow you to get easy access, so you don’t have to remove the cooking grate again and again. Safety is another aspect that you must look at while choosing the one for you.