If you love grilling, but don't want to be confined to your backyard, a portable grill is just what you need. Whether you're planning a tailgate party, a camping trip, or just want to grill in your favorite park, a portable grill is an excellent way to enjoy your favorite foods in any location. In this article, we'll be reviewing the best portable charcoal grills of 2023, so you can find the perfect one for your grilling needs.
What to Look for in a Portable Grill
When it comes to portable grills, one of the most important factors to consider is portability. After all, the whole point of a portable grill is to be able to take it with you wherever you go, whether that's camping, tailgating, or just to a friend's backyard barbecue.
Here are some key things to look for when it comes to portability:
Size and weight
The size and weight of the grill are important factors to consider. You want a grill that is small and lightweight enough to be easily transported, but also large enough to cook the amount of food you need.
Handles
Look for a grill with sturdy handles that make it easy to carry. Some grills even come with a carrying case or bag for added convenience.
Folding or collapsible design
A grill that can be folded or collapsed is ideal for portability. This makes it easy to pack and store in your car or RV.
Fuel source
Consider the type of fuel the grill uses. Portable propane grills and charcoal grills are very popular options. Remember you'll need to carry propane, charcoal or wood with you with your small grill.
Durability
Here are some things to look for when it comes to durability:
Material: Look for a grill that is made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the elements. Stainless steel and cast iron are both durable options that can stand up to the wear and tear of outdoor use.
Construction: Check the construction of the grill to ensure that it is sturdy and well-built. Welded seams and solid construction can help to prevent the grill from bending or breaking during use.
Coating: Some grills come with a coating that helps to protect against rust and other forms of corrosion. Look for grills with a high-quality coating that is designed to withstand the elements.
Warranty: Check the manufacturer's warranty to ensure that the grill is backed by a guarantee. A good warranty can give you peace of mind and ensure that you are protected in the event of any issues or defects.
Ease of Cleaning
Ease of cleaning is an important consideration when choosing a portable grill. You want a grill that is easy to clean, as this will save you time and effort after each use. Here are some things to look for when it comes to ease of cleaning:
Removable parts: Look for a grill with removable parts that can be easily taken out and cleaned. This might include the cooking grate, ash pan, and drip tray. Being able to remove these parts makes it easier to clean the grill thoroughly.
Non-stick surfaces: Some grills come with non-stick grill surfaces that make it easier to remove food debris and grease. Look for grills with porcelain-coated or stainless steel cooking grates, as these surfaces are easier to clean than raw cast iron.
Ash management: Charcoal grills can be messy, as they produce ash that needs to be cleaned up after each use. Look for grills with an ash pan or ash catcher that can be easily removed and emptied.
Cleaning tools: Some grills come with cleaning tools, such as a grill brush or scraper, that make it easier to clean the cooking surface. Look for grills with these tools included for added convenience.
Dishwasher safe: If you're looking for maximum convenience, look for a grill with parts that are dishwasher safe. This will save you time and effort, as you can simply place the parts in the dishwasher and let it do the work.
How We Choose the Best Portable Grills
When selecting the best portable charcoal grills for 2023, we took several factors into consideration. We scoured customer reviews and ratings to find the grills that customers loved the most. We also looked at the features of each grill, including size, fuel source, material, and ease of cleaning. Our goal was to find the top portable grills that would be perfect for tailgating, camping, or grilling in your backyard. We relied on the experiences of customers who have purchased and used these grills. We also looked at the features and specifications of each grill to ensure that they meet the needs of anyone looking for a reliable and high-quality portable charcoal grill. We are confident that our list of the best portable grills of 2023 will help you find the perfect grill for your needs.
Weber Smokey Joe
Why We Love It
There are plenty of reasons why we love the Weber Smokey Joe portable charcoal BBQ grill. This grill is perfect for those who love to grill on the go, whether it's a trip to the beach or a road trip. The Weber Smokey Joe is compact and lightweight kettle-style grill, making it easy to take with you wherever you go. Despite its small size, it can hold up to five burgers made with a Weber burger press, making it perfect for small groups or families. The porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat and won't rust or peel, ensuring that your grill will last for years to come. The dampers allow you to easily control the temperature inside the grill, giving you the ability to cook a wide range of foods to perfection. The durable plated steel cooking grate retains heat and is easy to clean, making cleanup a breeze. And with the dimensions of 17 H x 14.2 W x 14.5 D inches, the grill is easy to store when not in use. Lastly, the 3D interactive assembly instructions for this product are available through the free BILT app, making assembly easy and hassle-free. Overall, the Weber Smokey Joe is one of the best portable charcoal grills for those who love to grill on the go. Its compact size, durable construction, and easy-to-use features make it a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.
Cuisinart GrateLifter Portable Charcoal Grill
Why We Love It
The Cuisinart Portable Grill is a grill that stands out for its impressive features. Here are some of the reasons why we love this grill: First and foremost, the 196 square inch of cooking space with chrome plated grill grates gives a spacious cooking surface that can accommodate a lot of food at once, while still distributing heat evenly and efficiently. This makes it perfect for cooking large meals for family and friends. The Cuisinart grill also features a dual venting system, which gives you the ultimate charcoal management and temperature control. This means that you can easily adjust the heat and keep it consistent, so that your food is cooked to perfection every time. Transporting the Cuisinart Charcoal Grill is also a breeze, thanks to its compact size and lightweight design. It measures 14.5 x 14.5 x 15 inches and weighs only 2 lbs, making it easy to take with you wherever you go. Plus, it features three secure lid locks for safe and easy transport. The durable enamel coated firebox and convenient mess-free ash catcher add to the convenience and ease of use of this grill. It's perfect for decks, patios, and balconies, camping, tailgating, and more. Overall, the Cuisinart CCG-190 Portable Charcoal Grill is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a reliable and efficient grill that can be taken anywhere. Its spacious cooking surface, dual venting system, compact size, and convenient features make it a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.
Oklahoma Joe's Rambler Portable Charcoal Grill
Why We Love It
The Oklahoma Joe's Rambler Portable Charcoal Grill is a standout grill that we love for its exceptional features. Here are some of the reasons why this grill is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast: The grill is made of heavy-duty steel construction ensures durability you can trust. This grill is built to last, making it a great investment for anyone who loves to grill. The thick cast-iron grates are another feature that we love. They produce a perfect sear on your food, giving it that delicious grilled flavor that we all crave. The height-adjustable charcoal tray lets you grill with high heat or cook low and slow, giving you the ability to cook a wide range of foods to perfection. And the large air dampers allow for accurate airflow control, giving you complete control over the temperature and ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection. The full-size, removable ash pan makes clean-up easy, so you don't have to spend hours scrubbing your grill after you're done cooking.
Overall, the Oklahoma Joe's Rambler Portable Charcoal Grill is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a reliable and durable grill that can produce delicious grilled food. Its heavy-duty steel construction, thick cast-iron grates, height-adjustable charcoal tray, large air dampers, and full-size, removable ash pan make it a must-have for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
Char-Griller AKORN Jr. Portable Kamado Grill
Why We Love It
The Char-Griller AKORN Jr. Portable Grill is a standout grill that we love for its exceptional features. The Kamado style small portable charcoal grill is perfect for both high heat grilling and low-and-slow cooking, making it incredibly versatile. The insulated design with locking lid traps smoke, heat, and moisture like expensive ceramic kamados, producing flavorful barbecue and allowing you to use less charcoal. Grilling on-the-go has never been easier thanks to the convenient handles and compact frame. It's perfect for tailgating, camping, barbecuing at the park, or at home in the backyard. The heavy-duty construction of the Char-Griller AKORN Jr. is another feature that we love. Made from heavy-gauge powder-coated steel with thick cast iron cooking grates for maximum durability and heat retention, this grill will last for years to come. The indexed adjustable dual dampers and thermometer allow you to control the heat levels with ease, making it easy to use. And the removable Easy Dump Ash Pan makes cleanup a breeze. With 155 square inches of grill space and precise temperature controls, the Char-Griller AKORN Jr. Portable Kamado Grill is perfect for searing steaks, smoking wings, or grilling up to 8 burgers at once. The Char-Griller Grill is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a versatile and durable grill that can be used anywhere. Its Kamado-style design, heavy-duty construction, easy-to-use features, and compact size make it a must-have for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
Portable Charcoal Grill FAQ
When it comes to purchasing a portable charcoal grill, there are many questions that you may have. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which grill is the right fit for your needs. In this FAQ section, we'll answer some of the most common questions about portable charcoal grills. From choosing the right size to determining the best fuel source, we'll cover everything you need to know to make an informed purchase.
Which is better charcoal or gas grills?
The choice between charcoal and gas grills ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you're looking for in a grill.
Charcoal grills offer a distinct flavor and aroma that many people love. They are also typically less expensive than gas grills, and can be used for both direct and indirect cooking. Additionally, charcoal grills can reach higher temperatures than gas grills, which is important for searing and creating a crust on meats.
On the other hand, gas grills are much easier to use and require less maintenance. They heat up quickly and can be turned on and off easily, which makes them a popular choice for those who like to grill frequently. Additionally, gas grills are typically more versatile, with features such as multiple burners and side burners for cooking other dishes.
Ultimately, the choice between charcoal and gas grills comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy the flavor and aroma of charcoal grilling and don't mind the extra maintenance, then a charcoal grill may be the right choice for you. If convenience and ease of use are more important, then a gas grill may be a better option.
What size portable charcoal grill should I get?
The size of the portable charcoal grill you should get depends on your needs. If you plan on grilling for just yourself or a small group of people, a grill with a cooking grate that is around 150 square inches should suffice. If you plan on cooking for a larger group, consider a grill with a larger cooking grate, around 240 square inches.
What is the best fuel source for a portable charcoal grill?
The best fuel source for a portable charcoal grill is lump charcoal. It's affordable, easy to find, and offers a more authentic grilling experience. Grilling with charcoal also produces a unique smoky flavor that is difficult to achieve with other fuel sources.
How do I clean a portable charcoal grill?
Cleaning your charcoal grill is easy. First, make sure the grill is cool to the touch. Then, remove the cooking grate and ash pan, if applicable. Use a grill brush to scrub the cooking grate and remove any leftover food debris. Empty the ash pan, if applicable, and wipe down the grill with a damp cloth. Allow the grill to dry before storing it.
Can I use a portable charcoal grill indoors?
No, it's not safe to use a portable charcoal grill indoors. Cooking over charcoal produces carbon monoxide, which is a toxic gas that can be lethal in high concentrations. Only use your portable charcoal grill in a well-ventilated area, such as outdoors.
Can I use lighter fluid with my portable charcoal grill?
Yes, you can use lighter fluid to light a charcoal grill. However, it's important to use it correctly. Only use a small amount of lighter fluid, and never add it to a lit fire. Allow the lighter fluid to soak into the charcoal for a few minutes before lighting the fire.
Can I smoke meat on a portable charcoal grill?
Yes, you can smoke meat on a portable charcoal grill. To do so, add charcoal and wood chips and use a low and slow cooking method. It's best to use a grill with a lid that can help trap the smoke and flavor.
What is the difference between ceramic and steel portable charcoal grills?
Ceramic portable charcoal grills offer superior heat retention and are excellent for slow cooking. Steel portable charcoal grills are durable and easy to clean. Ultimately, the decision between ceramic and steel comes down to personal preference and cooking style.
How do I know when the charcoal is ready to cook on?
When the charcoal is ready to cook on, it should be glowing red and covered in ash. You should be able to hold your hand over the hot grill for a few seconds before it starts to burn.
What is a hibachi-style portable charcoal grill?
A hibachi-style portable charcoal grill is a grill with a flat, open cooking surface that is set directly over the coals. This style of grill is excellent for cooking food quickly and at high temperatures.
Can I adjust the temperature of the grill?
Yes, you can adjust the temperature on a portable charcoal grill by adding or removing lots of charcoal. You can also adjust the air vents on the grill to control the amount of oxygen that reaches the coals, which can help regulate the temperature.
How long will a bag of charcoal last?
The length of time a bag of charcoal briquettes will last depends on the size of the bag, the size of the grill, and how often you grill. A standard bag of charcoal will last around 3-5 grilling sessions, depending on the size of the grill and the amount of charcoal used for each session. It's always a good idea to have extra charcoal on hand so that you don't run out in the middle of grilling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best portable charcoal grills of 2023 offer a range of features and options for those who love to grill on the go. Whether you're planning a camping trip, tailgate party, or just want to grill in your backyard, a portable grill is an excellent way to enjoy your favorite foods anywhere. When choosing a portable grill, make sure to consider size, fuel source, material, and ease of cleaning. Our top picks include the Weber Smokey Joe, Cuisinart GrateLifter Portable Charcoal Grill, Oklahoma Joe's Rambler and Kamado Joe Jr. With these grills, you can enjoy delicious grilled foods no matter where you are.
