The Culinary & Kitchen Specialists

12 Best Charcoal Grills Under 150 in 2024 – Unbiased Guide

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Best Charcoal Grills Under 150

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Are you a barbecue enthusiast on a budget who refuses to compromise on flavor and performance? Look no further! In this article, we will embark on a sizzling journey through the top-rated charcoal grills that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re an experienced grill master or just starting out, finding the perfect charcoal grill under $150 can be a daunting task. But fear not, as we’ve scoured the market to uncover the best options that combine affordability with exceptional grilling capabilities.

Before the advent of electric and gas grills, everyone used charcoal grills. Vegetables, steaks, and fish grilled on charcoal were juicier and tasted better. If you want to retain the same taste, you’ll need the best charcoal grill. Even if you have to purchase a new one but you are limited by budget, you don’t have to fret. You can find charcoal grills that are light on the pocket but still very convenient to use.

There are characteristics of low priced charcoal grills that separate them from useless ones. This being the case, a good charcoal grill must be:

  • Compact and portable
  • Simple and easy to use
  • Made from heavy-duty materials
  • Durable and safe

Table of Contents

Comparison chart of Charcoal Grills for Under $150

Compare detailed specifications and features of the most popular charcoal grills on the market. Find which one is for you.

Title
Editor's Choice
Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill
Best Seller
Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
People also like
ISUMER Portable Charcoal Grill
Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill
Compact
Cuisinart CCG190RB Portable Charcoal Grill
Weber Original Kettle 18 Inch Charcoal Grill
Image
Char-Griller® Patio Pro Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cast Iron...
Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
Portable Charcoal Grill with Lid Folding Tabletop BBQ Grill...
Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill, Black
Cuisinart 14" Inch BBQ, 14" x 14" x 15", Portable Charcoal Grill,...
Weber Original Kettle 18 Inch Charcoal Grill, Black
Surface
250 square inch
363 square inch
180 square inch
160 square inch
240 square inch
255 square inch
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
Editor's Choice
Title
Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill
Image
Char-Griller® Patio Pro Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cast Iron...
Surface
250 square inch
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Check Latest Price
Best Seller
Title
Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
Image
Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
Surface
363 square inch
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Check Latest Price
People also like
Title
ISUMER Portable Charcoal Grill
Image
Portable Charcoal Grill with Lid Folding Tabletop BBQ Grill...
Surface
180 square inch
Prime Status
Check Latest Price
Title
Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill
Image
Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill, Black
Surface
160 square inch
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Check Latest Price
Compact
Title
Cuisinart CCG190RB Portable Charcoal Grill
Image
Cuisinart 14" Inch BBQ, 14" x 14" x 15", Portable Charcoal Grill,...
Surface
240 square inch
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Check Latest Price
Title
Weber Original Kettle 18 Inch Charcoal Grill
Image
Weber Original Kettle 18 Inch Charcoal Grill, Black
Surface
255 square inch
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Check Latest Price

Review of the Best Charcoal Grills Under 150

1. Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill

Aside from the price, what makes the Char-Griller E1515 stand out from competitors is its versatility. You are not limited in just using this unit in your backyard. You can use it pretty much everywhere.

The Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro is made of stainless steel and features four small wheels. It has a charcoal drawer on one side and a small shelf on the other side. There is also a tiny wire beneath the grill that can be used to store a bag of charcoal briquettes.

Other features and benefits

The handy charcoal grill comes with iron grates that can withstand a great deal of abuse. However, since iron is prone to rusting, you will need to apply oil to the grate before and after cooking.

The unit boasts a stay-cool handle that protects your hands even when the grill gets hot while cooking.

Since charcoal grills are volatile, the Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro comes with a side air vent. This vent controls the cooking temperature by regulating the flow of air in and out of the grill.

Pros

  • Cast-iron grates
  • Easy to move from one place to another
  • Stainless steel bottom
  • Stay cool handle

Cons

  • A minimal cooking surface
Tester Review

The Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill is an excellent option for an affordable yet high-quality grill. This grill features 250 square inches of cooking space, making it large enough to accommodate multiple burgers or steaks.

The cast iron grates are also ideal for searing meat, while the side shelves provide plenty of space for prep and serving. The Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill is easy to assemble and has a durable powder-coated finish.

Overall, the Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill is an excellent choice for an affordable and high-quality grill. With plenty of space for cooking and serving, plus easy assembly, this grill is sure to please anyone who uses it.

2. Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill

Despite the existence of dozens of small charcoal grill manufacturers, it seems that Weber always tops the headlines. Founded in 1893, the Chicago-based company is known for churning out high-quality grills for those working on a tight budget.

The Weber 741001 Original Kettle boasts 363 square inches of grilling surface. It is equipped with three legs and two wheels. The unit is also constructed with a mixture of different materials. They aren’t blended together, but different parts are made of different materials.

Other features and benefits

The Weber grill is capable of making up to 13 burgers. For this reason, this grill isn’t ideal for commercial users or large families.

It is pretty easy to clean and maintain the unit thanks to the one-touch cleaning system.

The bowl and the lid are made with porcelain, which provides a uniform heat distribution on the grilling surface. The material is also resistant to rust and corrosion.

Grates are made of stainless steel, which can put up with a large amount of abuse. You will also be able to clean them pretty quickly.

Pros

  • Easy to clean
  • Made of high-quality materials
  • Ability to regulate heat
  • Portable

Cons

  • Not ideal for large parties
Tester Review

The Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill is very easy to use. The instructions are clear and concise, and the overall design is very user-friendly. The grill heats up quickly and evenly, and the food cooks evenly across all areas of the grill. It can accommodate up to 13 burgers at a time.

The build quality is excellent, and the grill feels sturdy and well-made. The cast iron grates provide even heat distribution. The porcelain-enamelled bowl and lid are durable. The legs are made of aluminum.

I’m very impressed with the Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill. It’s an excellent choice for both experienced grillers and beginners alike.

3. ISUMER Portable Charcoal Grill

The ISUMER Grill is one of the cheapest charcoal grills you can get. Even so, it offers lots of convenience and value.

The ISUMER Grill measures 19 x 8.25 x 10.25 inches. It is made of cast iron with aluminum handle. Sadly, it doesn’t come with a lid to trap heat and add smoke flavor to your BBQ. So you will need to invest in one separately.

Other features and benefits

The ISUMER Grill is portable. Therefore, it is best for tailgating, picnics, and camping. You can also use it in your yard or patio.

The grates are made of cast iron, which provides higher heat retention than other materials.

The grill is a little heavy since the better part of it is made of cast iron. For this reason, it is very stable and less prone to causing accidents.

It features a total cooking surface of 180 square inches. This should provide enough room for around three small burgers and two chicken breasts.

Pros

  • Moderately priced
  • Comes already seasoned
  • Ability to control heat via the draft door
  • Height adjustable

Cons

  • Too heavy
  • Takes a long time to cool down
Tester Review

As a busy man, I don’t always have time to fire up the grill. That’s why I was excited to try the ISUMER Portable Charcoal Grill. This little grill is easy to set up and use and is perfect for small spaces.

This grill is very easy to set up by myself. It comes with a carrying case, making it very convenient to take with you on picnics or camping trips.

I was impressed with how well the ISUMER grilled my food. The burgers were juicy, and the chicken was cooked through. And cleanup was a breeze – just a quick wipe down, and the grill was ready for next time.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use, portable charcoal grill, the ISUMER is an excellent option. It’s perfect for small spaces and cooks your food evenly. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!

4. Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill

Although there are many inexpensive charcoal grills, they probably won’t be as sturdy as Weber grills. The Weber 121020 is designed for heavy-duty use and will perform year after year.

The Weber 121020 Charcoal Grill measures 14.5” H x 21” W x 12.25” L. It is big enough for cooking small meals for up to four people. The cooking grates are made entirely of steel, which is more resilient than cast iron grates. The unit is also relatively compact and easy to move from one place to another.

Other features and benefits

The unit comes with folding steel legs, hence making it very easy to store and transport.

Another feature that we like about this grill is the ventilation system that gives you much better control over temperature. The system allows you to regulate the flow of air in and out of the unit while grilling.

The top porcelain-enameled lid does a great job when it comes to blocking wind and retaining heat.

Moreover, this charcoal grill offers 160 square inches of cooking surface. For this reason, it is perfect for cooking for a small family or group.

Pros

  • Cooks evenly
  • Comes at an affordable price
  • Good air-flow
  • Folding legs makes storage easier

Cons

  • Not height adjustable
  • Handles get too hot
Tester Review

Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill is a great product. I have had mine for a few months, and it has performed flawlessly.

First, let’s discuss what I like about the Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill. This grill is easy to take with you on the go, which is great for picnics or tailgating. I like that taking picnics, camping trips, or the beach with you is effortless. The grill sets up quickly and easily, so you can start cooking in no time.

Another thing is that It is made of high-quality materials and construction that will last for many years. The grill heats evenly and produces great-tasting food.

5. Cuisinart CCG190RB Portable Charcoal Grill

The Cuisinart brand is one of the best newcomers on our list. We have to give the company lots of praise for what they did with the Cuisinart CCG190RB Charcoal Grill. They provided a perfect charcoal grill at a small price.

Cuisinart CCG190RB has pretty much every feature you’d expect in a kettle grill, such as a steel grate and thermometer. It also comes with four legs that make the unit sturdier than its three-legged counterparts. Plus, the unit comes with two wheels for easy mobility.

Other features and benefits

The Cuisinart CCG190RB Kettle Charcoal Grill features hinged steel grates. So you will not need to remove the grate completely when adding wood or charcoal to the grill.

The unit is relatively easy to set up, and the instructions are clear. You should be able to put everything together in 15-30 minutes.

The grill comes with 150 square inches of cooking surface and an 18-inch diameter grate. As you can see, this unit is designed for small parties and families.

There are sliding dampers that allow you to regulate the temperature of the unit. Moreover, the item is easy to clean and comes with a 3-year warranty.

Pros

  • Well-built
  • Easy to transport
  • Adjustable temperature
  • Folding grates

Cons

  • Quite fragile
Tester Review

I have tested Cuisinart CCG190RB Portable Charcoal Grill for three days. This grill is very easy to use. You just put the charcoal in the firebox, light it, and let it preheat for about 15 minutes. Then you put your food on the grill, close the lid, and cook it for the time specified in your recipe. The grill is small and portable, so it’s great for camping or tailgating. It’s also effortless to clean.

The only downside to this grill is that it doesn’t have many features. There’s no temperature gauge, so you must guess how hot the coals are. There’s also no way to adjust the airflow, so you can’t control how much smoke your food gets.

6. Weber Original Kettle 18 Inch Charcoal Grill

Are you looking for some portable charcoal grill for less than $150? Then, here is a superb piece of work from the renowned brand Weber. Despite not being ideal for a large group or family, it is still a great appliance to own.

The Weber Original Kettle 18 Inch Charcoal Grill boasts a large cooking surface of 240 square inches. It is equipped with an 18-inch coated steel grate to eliminate the need to season the grate. It also comes with a plastic handle to protect your hands from heat and two wheels for mobility.

Other features and benefits

The grill has an aluminum ash catcher at the bottom to make cleanup after cooking a breeze.

As with any other Weber grill, this unit comes with a Porcelain-Enameled Bowl and lid. This ensures that heat is distributed uniformly across the cooking surface.

Weber is well aware of the volatile nature of charcoal grills. So they included a damper that allows you to regulate the temperature for the best results.

Cleaning the charcoal grill is relatively easy thanks to the One-Touch cleaning Technology and plated steel grates.

Pros

  • Made of heavy-duty steel
  • Stylish design with wheels
  • Uniform heat distribution
  • Ability to adjust the temperature

Cons

  • The handle can get too hot to touch
Tester Review

Weber Original Kettle 18 Inch Charcoal Grill is a great product. I have used it for a while now, and it is still going strong. The grill is made of heavy-duty steel and is effortless to assemble. It comes with a cover and an ash catcher. The grill also has two wheels for easy mobility.

I love Weber Original Kettle 18 Inch Charcoal Grill because it cooks food evenly. The food never sticks to the grill and is effortless to clean. I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a great charcoal grill.

One downside I have noticed is that many grills offer built-in thermometers in this price range, but this one didn’t.

7. BEAU JARDIN Portable Charcoal Grill

Next, in this list, we have the BEAU JARDIN Portable Charcoal Grill. As the name suggests, it is a portable unit suitable for picnics, camping, and other outdoor activities.

The Portable Charcoal Grill is a compact size grill with 24 inches high and 18 inches diameter. Yet, it provides a generous cooking surface. It also boasts plated steel grates and two wheels for smooth and easy movement.

Other features and benefits

The BEAU JARDIN Portable Charcoal Grill can be used both indoors and outdoors. It gives you a somewhat enough cooking surface, which is ideal for groups and parties.

You are also going to get a plated steel grate that is easy to heat and clean.

The unit is equipped with an aluminum air vent damper that controls the grill’s temperature. And the porcelain-coated bowl and lid deliver uniform and constant cooking temperatures.

The One-Touch Cleaning System allows for quick removal of ashes using the ash catcher.

Other features worth mentioning are the ash leak under the bowl and the sturdy wheels. The design of the unit is fairly simple though assembly is required for setup.

Pros

  • Easy to travel with
  • Wheels for mobility
  • Easy to set up
  • The grate does not require seasoning

Cons

  • Do not include a lot of cooking space
Tester Review

It’s well-made, easy to use, and very affordable.

The BEAU JARDIN is made of high-quality materials, and it shows. The grill body is heavy-duty steel, and the legs are nice and sturdy. The grill grate is enamelled with cast iron, which heats evenly and holds heat well. It’s also powder coated to resist rusting.

The BEAU JARDIN is very easy to use. Just open the vents to start, then add charcoal and wood chips. Once the coals are lit, you’re ready to start grilling.

I’ve been using mine for a few months, and I’m pleased with it. But one downside is not a built-in thermometer on this grill.

8. Weber 14501001 Master-Touch Charcoal Grill

The next best charcoal grill to consider on this list is the Weber 14501001 Master-Touch. It is from a famous company Weber and comes with premium features at a very affordable price.

The Weber 14501001 Master-Touch has a sleek black finish and features 363 square inches of cooking surface. This is ample enough to cook for five or six people. It is also equipped with a high-quality grate made of stainless steel.

Other features and benefits

The unit comes with a 22-inch cooking grate that can cook up to thirteen burgers at once. Plus, the plated steel grate retains heat and allows for evenly cooked food.

The grill bowl and metal lid are enameled with porcelain for extra heat retention and durability.

The unit includes a built-in thermometer that ensures appropriate food temperatures are reached and maintained.

The charcoal grill also comes with two wheels. Thus, you can move the unit from one place to another with lots of ease.

Another feature that sets this unit apart is the fact that it allows you to expand grilling possibilities. For instance, you can replace the circular grate insert with a poultry roaster, griddle, or pizza stone.

Pros

  • Heatshield keeps the handle from getting too hot
  • Superb heat retention
  • Easy to clean
  • Ability to control the temperature

Cons

  • The cooking surface may be too small
Tester Review

Weber 14501001 Master-Touch Charcoal Grill is one of the best charcoal grills for backyard use. I’ve been using mine for a month now and am very impressed. It is made of high-quality materials, and it is effortless to use. The grill has many features that make it perfect for cooking different kinds of food. It also has a stylish design that will make your backyard look great.

The Master-Touch has a sturdy construction, with a powder-coated steel body and a porcelain-enamelled lid and bowl. It’s easy to assemble and comes with everything you need to get started, including a plated steel-hinged cooking grate, charcoal grate, and ash catcher. The cooking 443 square inches surface is large enough to accommodate 20 burgers, making it great for entertaining.

I have been using this Charcoal Grill for a month, and I am pleased with it. The grill is very easy to use, and it cooks food quickly. The design is also very sleek and stylish. I would recommend this grill to anyone looking for a high-quality charcoal grill.

9. Fire Sense Large Rectangle Yakatori Charcoal Grill

The Fire Sense Charcoal Grill is one of the charcoal grills that you can get with less than $50. This may seem too good to be true, and you may become suspicious of it. But the truth is that it offers a value that is more than its price.

The Fire Sense Charcoal Grill offers an incredible 157 square inches of cooking surface. As you can see, its grilling area is quite bigger than many other expensive options available on the market. It is also compact and you can fold for easy storage.

Other features and benefits

The Fire Sense features an ample cooking surface that can handle a significant quantity of steaks, burgers, and vegetables.

The unit is made of heavy-duty coated steel and can survive for decades.

The grill can easily be folded in seconds, providing an easy and quick solution for users on the go. It is, therefore, ideal for your tailgating grilling needs.

Another positive thing about this grill is that it does not have too many extras. For this reason, the instructions to assemble and use the grill are easy to grasp.

Pros

  • Great value for money
  • Easy to set up
  • Can be folded
  • Do not need much charcoal

Cons

  • No lid
  • Too small
Tester Review

I have tested Fire Sense Large Rectangle Yakatori Charcoal Grill. So far, I’m very impressed with the performance of the grill. It evenly distributes heat and has a nice, even sear. The size is perfect for my needs and is easy to set up and use.

I’m happy with my purchase and advise this grill to anyone looking for a quality, durable product.

10. Char-Griller 2137 Outlaw 1063 Square Inch Charcoal Grill

Our next grill is from a well-known Atlanta-based company. With 1063 square inches of cooking surface, this charcoal grill has space for almost everything you throw on it. The unit can handle steaks, burgers, ribs, or perhaps a whole turkey.

The Char-Griller 2137 Outlaw is perhaps the largest charcoal grill on our list. The unit is made of heavy-duty steel and weighs 112 pounds.

Other features and benefits

One feature that sets this grill apart from the rest is that it also serves as a smoker.

The unit is not only budget-friendly but also gives you the quality and space of high-end professional grills. Many grills with these features cost thousands of bucks, but this handy outdoor unit costs less than $150.

The grate comes in different parts. Thus, you do not need to remove the entire grate to add charcoal.

It is also equipped with two wheels to make it easy to move from one spot to another.

Pros

  • Best bang for your buck
  • Large cooking area
  • Easy to move
  • Built-in heat gauge

Cons

  • It takes time to assemble the unit
Tester Review

I have tested Char-Griller 2137 Charcoal Grill. It’s a great grill with plenty of space to cook for a large group. I’ve only had it for two weeks, but I’ve already used it several times, and it’s my new favourite grill.

The build quality is excellent, and it comes with some features that make it easy to use, like an adjustable charcoal tray and a side firebox.

The grill heats up quickly and evenly, and the precise temperature control. I got great results with both low and high-heat cooking.

Overall, I’m very impressed with the Char-Griller Charcoal Grill and admiringly suggest it to anyone looking for a high-quality charcoal grill.

11. Marsh Allen 30052 Cast Iron Hibachi Charcoal Grill

The Marsh Allen 30052 Cast Iron Hibachi Charcoal Grill has several  features that make it one of the best options to consider.

The Marsh Allen 30052 measures 18″ L x 3.4″ H x 10″ W and weighs 15.9 pounds. It is made of heavy-duty cast iron and comes in black finish. It has wooden handles and two vents for airflow.

Other features and benefits

The unit offers 157 square inches of cooking area. The grilling area is quite limited but can still cook enough food for a couple or a small group.

It is well-built with cast iron and will provide years if not decades of grilling BBQ.

The unit is also features with two air vents. You can adjust the vents to manage your grill’s temperature.

Also, the handles are crafted with wood for comfort and protect your hands from the heat.

Pros

  • Adjustable air vents
  • Easy to clean
  • Easy to carry
  • Wooden handles to protect your hands

Cons

  • A few complaints about the overall quality
Tester Review

Suppose you’re looking for a great, affordable hibachi grill. In that case, the Marsh Allen 30052 Cast Iron Hibachi Charcoal Grill is a great option. It’s made of durable cast iron and features two adjustable height settings so that you can customize your grilling experience. Plus, it has a built-in ash catcher to help make cleanup a breeze. I’ve been using this grill for a few months now and love it. It’s perfect for small gatherings and cookouts. The food always comes out evenly cooked and full of flavour. I like this product a lot. If you’re on the fence about this grill, I highly recommend it.

Another thing it pleased my mind is its size. 823 square inches are big enough for a party. You can cook 20 burgers at the same time with this.

12. Royal Gourmet BBQ Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker

If you are looking for a medium-sized charcoal grill with a relatively large cooking area, then your search ends here. The Royal Gourmet BBQ Charcoal Grill boasts one of the largest cooking surfaces on this list. And it comes at an affordable price.

The Royal Gourmet BBQ Charcoal Grill is equipped with a side smoker box. The feature is included to make smoking and grilling a breeze as there is no direct fire beneath the food. It also comes with a pretty large cooking area that allows you to cook chicken, burgers, etc.

Other features and benefits

The Royal Gourmet BBQ Charcoal Grill serves as an offset smoker as well as a traditional BBQ grill.

The unit comes with large porcelain-coated grates that retain heat and ensure uniform grilling.

Under the unit, there is a whopping 800 square inches of grilling surface. In addition, there are 183 square inches for smoking and 438 square inches for the main chamber.

The grill also comes with a well-built cart for mobility.

Pros

  • Comes with a smoker
  • Easy to transport
  • Larger cooking surface

Cons

  • The smoker box is hard to clean
Tester Review

The build quality is excellent, and it’s effortless to use. The offset smoker works great and produces some delicious smoked food. The grill also heats up quickly, making it perfect for cooking burgers, steaks, chicken, or whatever else you’re in the mood for.

I really like this grill. It’s very easy to set up and use. The offset smoker is a great feature. It’s very easy to control the temperature and smoke level. The food comes out great every time.

Overall, I’m pleased with the Royal Gourmet CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker. It is the grill for you if you’re looking for a high-quality grill that will give you delicious smoked food.

May you love: Use smoker box on the grill

Types of charcoal grills

There are many different types of charcoal grills on the market. Such as kettle grill, barrel grill, offset smokers, and vertical charcoal smoker.

1. kettle grill

Kettle grills are ideal for cooking food evenly and can be used for indirect heat cooking methods such as smoking. The most popular type is the kettle grill. These grills have a round, cylindrical body with a lid. The lid lets you close the grill and smother the fire when you’re done cooking. It prevents flare-ups and makes clean-up easier. Kettle grills typically come with a grate for cooking and an ash catcher for catching ashes.

2. Barrel grill

Another type of charcoal grill is the barrel grill. A barrel grill is a type of charcoal grill that is shaped like a barrel. It has a large, round cooking surface and two metal legs that hold it up. Barrel grills are popular because they are easy to set up and use and produce great results.

3. Offset smoker

The third type of charcoal grill is the offset smoker. Offset smokers are a type of charcoal grill that is popular among barbecue enthusiasts. They are named for their offset firebox, located to the cooking chamber’s side. The smoke from the firebox travels through a tunnel and into the cooking chamber, where it cooks the food. This design allows the smoker to maintain a consistent temperature, making it ideal for smoking meat.

4. Vertical Charcoal Smoker

If you love the taste of smoked meats but don’t have the outdoor space for a full-sized smoker, a vertical charcoal smoker is the perfect option. These smokers are small and compact, making them ideal for use on patios or balconies. They also produce less smoke than traditional smokers, making them a better choice for those who live in close quarters with their neighbors. Vertical charcoal smokers come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can find one that’s perfect for your needs.

Buying Guide Of Charcoal Grill – How to choose

A charcoal grill is an easy to handle cooking appliance. But before you buy one, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some of them.

1. Number of people

Before buying any grill, ask yourself for what purpose you want to buy the item. If you need to cook for 3 to 4 people, a small charcoal grill will suffice. But if you’re organizing a party for a large group, you might want to opt for a large size.

2. Cost

Cost is one of the most valuable things to keep in mind. Determine the price of the product and then asses it. See whether or not the price is reasonable

3. Heat control

With a charcoal grill controlling the heat is not easy. So choose a grill that is fitted with a thermostat to. This will enable you to control temperatures easily.

4. Durability

Many factors determine the longevity of a grill. These include the brand, the quality of the materials used, etc. Therefore, be sure to check all these factors before you buy one.

5. Safety

Grilling with charcoal can be hazardous if done incorrectly. So it is best to understand the safety features of the grill you’re buying.

6. Maintenance

The better you take care of your grill, the longer it will last. It is, therefore, preferable to choose a grill that is easy to clean and without damage.

The difference between a gas and charcoal grill

When it comes to outdoor cooking, there are two main types of grills: gas and charcoal. Both have pros and cons, but which is right for you? Here are nine key differences between gas and charcoal grills:

DifferencesGas GrillCharcoal Grill
CostGas grills are typically more expensive than charcoal grills. Good grills are available for between $ 500 and $ 1,000Charcoal grills are usually less expensive than gas grills. Durable and long lasting charcoal grills are available at $200.
Ease of useGas grills are much more accessible than charcoal grills; all you have to do is turn on the gas and light the grill.With charcoal grills, you have to start a fire, wait for the coals to heat up, and then put the food on the grill.
Temperature controlGas grills give you more precise temperature control than charcoal grills. It makes them ideal for cooking delicate foods like fish or vegetables.At the charcoal grill you cannot set the specified temperature. The higher the air, the higher the temperature. So you need to use the temperature controller.
Temp Range450°F to 550°F1200°F and above as low as you want
 Fire Up Time10-15 minutes.It takes 20-30 minutes. If the temperature of charcoal is 550 degrees Fahrenheit, it may take 10 minutes to fire up.
Cool down timeWithin 15 minutesIt may take 2 days to cool down. It may take 24 to 48 hours for the charcoal to cool down.
Clean upGas grills are relatively easy to clean and keep in good condition for a long time.Charcoal grills require you to clean them after each use.
SafetyGas grills don’t have harmful fumes when you burn them as they use gas, not charcoalCharcoal grills produce toxic fumes when you light the coals.
Easy to moveGas grills are easier to move than charcoal grills. If you want to carry your grill for outdoor cooking, then a gas grill is the best.You can also use charcoal grill outdoors. If you have wheels under the charcoal grill, you can move easily. But many charcoal grills do not have wheels to move.
MaintenanceGas grills require less maintenance than charcoal grills.It would be best to clean your charcoal grill more often as it is challenging to wash and maintain.
SizesGas grills are available in many sizes, such as 2, 3, 4, 6 burners. Again available in 500-1200 square inches. Larger can be found as you need.Charcoal grills come in a variety of sizes. You need to choose the size that your family needs.
Difference between a gas and charcoal grill

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I light a charcoal grill?

Lighting a charcoal grill can be overwhelming, but it is not that complicated. You need to fill up the chimney with coal. Shove some old newspapers into the bottom of the chimney and light it. Let it burn until the charcoal heats up.

Why is it necessary to extinguish a charcoal grill after use?

The charcoal briquettes used in grills can remain hot for a long time after you finish cooking. So it is always essential to extinguish your grill once you are done cooking. It helps prevents any risk of the unit flaring up and burning stuff in your yard.

What is the easiest and safest way to put out a charcoal grill?

The safest way to extinguish a charcoal grill is to close vents and put a cover on it. This cuts off the air supply to the coals, thereby causing them to extinguish. Avoid water at all costs as it can cause some grills to crack as a result of thermal shock.

What are the benefits of charcoal grilling?

There are many benefits to charcoal grilling. For one, the flavor of food cooked over charcoal is unbeatable. It’s also a very healthy way to cook, as the food doesn’t absorb any harmful chemicals found in traditional grills. And finally, it’s a great way to get outdoors and spend time with friends and family.

How long does it take to heat a Charcoal Grill?

It takes about 10-15 minutes to heat a charcoal grill. You can start cooking once the grill reaches around 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

How durable is a charcoal grill?

A charcoal grill is durable and will last many years with proper care. The cooking grates are usually cast iron and can withstand high temperatures without warping. The grill’s body may be made of cast iron, steel, or aluminum and is durable. However, the lid and door may not be as stable and must be replaced after a few years of use.

Our top pick

The Weber 741001 Original Kettle is our best charcoal grill under 150 and with a good reason.  From a 22-inch grate, 363 square inches of grilling area, built-in thermometer, and metal lid, you will love this grill. It also comes from Weber – an industry leader in the BBQ industry for over six decades.

Final Thoughts

If you love grilling but lack the money to buy those high-end grills, a cheap charcoal grill is your perfect option. Sometimes, some of these expensive grills are not even worth their price.  So if you cannot afford these overpriced grills, we’d recommend the options listed above. These models will offer you the best bang for the buck.

The best charcoal grills under $150 offer a fantastic combination of affordability, functionality, and superior grilling performance. These grills have proven to be reliable companions for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who seek an authentic smoky flavor in their barbecued dishes without breaking the bank. With features such as adjustable air vents, sturdy construction, and ample cooking space, these grills provide a delightful grilling experience at an accessible price point.

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