10 Best Charcoal Grills 2025 in the United States

The Kamado Joe Konnected Joe Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker stands out as a versatile option for grilling enthusiasts who appreciate both traditional charcoal cooking and modern technology. Its 18-inch cooking area provides ample space for preparing meals for a small gathering, while the 250 sq. in. cooking space allows for a variety of foods to be cooked simultaneously, making it a great choice for family barbecues or outdoor parties.

One of the most significant advantages of this grill is its ease of use, highlighted by the Automatic Fire Starter (AFS) feature that allows for quick ignition of charcoal. The Digital Kontrol Board enhances the cooking experience by offering temperature monitoring, alerts, and multiple cooking modes, which can be particularly appealing for beginners or those who prefer a more hands-off approach to grilling.

The build quality is robust with a ceramic exterior, which is known for excellent heat retention and durability. The Air Lift Hinge also makes it easier to open the dome without straining, which is a thoughtful addition for user comfort. The Konnected Joe weighs 175 pounds, which can be challenging to move around, limiting its portability. This could be a consideration for those who enjoy grilling on the go or have limited outdoor space. Additionally, while the digital features are beneficial, they may require a bit of a learning curve for users who are not familiar with technology.

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 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.