Portable Charcoal Grills

Kyle Flynn
13 min readSep 8, 2024
Portable-Charcoal-Grill-1

Get ready to grill on-the-go with our top picks for the best portable charcoal grills! In this article, we'll take a look at the latest models that offer convenience, portability, and top-notch cooking performance. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or just starting out, we've got you covered with our comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect portable charcoal grill for your needs.

As an Amazon Associate, we may earn through qualified purchases at no cost to you.

Reviews

Skyshalo 21 Inch Portable Charcoal Grill with Ash Catcher and Built-in Thermometer

Skyshalo 21 Inch Portable Charcoal Grill with Ash Catcher and Built-in Thermometer | Image

Prepare for an adventure with the Skyshalo 21-inch Kettle Charcoal Grill BBQ. This versatile grill offers an adjustable damper for easy temperature control and a porcelain-enamel body for even cooking and rust protection. The convenient lid rack, large storage space, and charcoal grill experience ensure you can enjoy a delicious feast on-the-go.

Cleanup is a breeze with the included ash catcher, and the built-in thermometer helps control cooking temperature. Perfect for camping, picnics, and more, bring the taste of home with you wherever your adventure takes you.

MF Studio 34'' Extra Large Portable Charcoal BBQ Grill

MF Studio 34'’ Extra Large Portable Charcoal BBQ Grill | Image

Get ready to grill up a storm with the MF Studio Extra Large Portable Charcoal Grill. This 34-inch behemoth boasts a 505 sq. in. primary cooking area and a 289 sq. in. warming rack, giving you a total of 746 sq. in. of cooking space. The heat distribution is even thanks to the porcelain-enameled cooking grates, while the built-in thermometer and damper ensure precise temperature control for optimal performance. Easily adjust the height of the charcoal pan for optimal heat utilization, and access the charcoal through the front door.

Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the draw-out ash tray, and the two foldable side tables keep grilling tools within reach. The bottom shelf provides ample storage space, making it perfect for outdoor activities like backyard parties or camping. Although some users have reported issues with paint chipping, overall, this grill is an attractive and functional choice for anyone looking to up their outdoor cooking game.

Portable Charcoal Grill with Stainless Steel Frame and Foldable Legs

Portable Charcoal Grill with Stainless Steel Frame and Foldable Legs | Image

Experience the joy of outdoor grilling with this portable stainless steel BBQ grill. Perfect for picnics, backyard parties, or camping trips, this grill is a standout for its rust-resistant material and foldable, lightweight design. The grill features a convenient handle and legs that fold easily, making it simple to transport and store.

With its charcoal fuel type and heavy-duty plated steel charcoal grate, this grill is perfect for cooking up delicious meals like burgers, hot dogs, and fish. The grill's size, at 8.7 x 11.5 x 17 inches, accommodates 3-5 people and provides even heat distribution and proper temperature control.

The grill's solid stainless steel material boasts excellent abrasive resistance, ensuring no rust or twisting, making it a durable and long-lasting option for all your grilling needs. Use it at home or bring it along on your adventures—this portable grill is the perfect companion for creating delicious outdoor memories.

Portable Charcoal Grill with Removable Grate & Ash Pan

Portable Charcoal Grill with Removable Grate & Ash Pan | Image

I recently tried out the Dyna-Glo Portable Tabletop Charcoal Grill & Side Firebox, and let me tell you, I was pleasantly surprised. The portability of this grill is a game-changer, making it perfect for tailgating, camping, or even just grilling in the backyard.

One feature that really stood out to me was the removable charcoal grate and ash pan. This makes it incredibly easy to access the fuel and dispose of ash, which is a major plus when you're on the go. Plus, the porcelain enameled steel cooking grates guarantee maximum heat transfer and perfect searing.

However, the cool-touch handles deserve a shout-out too. They were a lifesaver when I was handling the grill, and I appreciated the attention to safety.

In terms of size, the grill offers 287 square inches of extra grilling space, which is plenty for a small gathering. And the mountable grate system means you can easily attach it to an existing Dyna-Glo signature series barrel grill for even more cooking possibilities.

Now, I must mention the weight of the product. It's quite hefty, so it may require two people to lift it. But given the quality and durability, I'd say it's worth the effort.

Overall, I'd highly recommend the Dyna-Glo Portable Tabletop Charcoal Grill & Side Firebox. It's perfect for those who love to grill on the go, and its ease of setup and cleaning make it a true winner in its category.

Everdure Cube Black Portable Charcoal BBQ Grill

Everdure Cube Black Portable Charcoal BBQ Grill | Image

The Everdure Cube Portable Charcoal BBQ Grill is a clever solution for those seeking a quick and convenient grilling experience away from home. Perfect for campsites, beaches, or tailgates, its compact design allows for easy storage and transportation.

With a removable charcoal tray and porcelain enamelled firebox, cleaning is a breeze, while the food grade bamboo preparation board and plastic storage tray offer a unique touch. The grill is equipped with cool-to-touch carry handles and built-in heat protection, ensuring safety and easy maneuverability.

Although it lacks some features like a built-in lid, the Cube BBQ grill provides a premium grilling experience in an all-in-one unit, great for both outdoor enthusiasts and apartment dwellers.

Delwin Black Portable Charcoal Grill

Delwin Black Portable Charcoal Grill | Image

I've been using the Delwin Portable Charcoal Grill in Black as my go-to grill for weekend camping trips, and let me tell you, it's been a game-changer. This grill is an absolute dream to handle with its lightweight carbon steel construction. It's like having a trusty sidekick on my adventures, ready to serve up delicious grilled meat and veggies whenever I need it.

The lid doubles as a secondary grill or cooling rack, which is a neat feature that I've found to be quite handy. It adds extra cooking space or a place to keep hot food warm until it's time to indulge. This grill is perfect for tailgate parties or any outdoor gathering where you need a little extra space.

In terms of durability, the long-lasting carbon steel construction is top-notch. It's built to withstand the rigors of outdoor life, and I have faith that it'll be my trusty companion for years to come. Plus, it's compatible with all charcoal safe grilling accessories, which means I can use my existing grill tools without any issues.

When it comes to cooking space, this grill has 150 sq. in. to work with—more than enough to satisfy a crowd. And hey, don't forget about the chrome plated grate and Burgundy wood handle that make this grill look as good as it performs.

Overall, I couldn't be happier with my Delwin Portable Charcoal Grill in Black. It's portable, durable, and versatile, and it's revolutionized the way I approach outdoor cooking. If you're looking for a grill that can handle whatever life throws at it, you won't be disappointed.

Americana Walk-A-Bout Portable Charcoal Grill

Americana Walk-A-Bout Portable Charcoal Grill | Image

I recently had the opportunity to try out the Americana Walk-A-Bout Portable Red Charcoal Grill, and I was quite impressed with its features. This compact grill is perfect for any outdoor gathering, and I appreciate its quick and easy setup. The red top with a black bottom adds a visually appealing touch to any event.

One of my favorite aspects of this grill is the hood and bowl vents, which provide excellent airflow control. This made it simple to regulate the temperature perfectly for various types of food, like smoky ribs, juicy burgers, and grilled chicken. The chrome-plated adjustable cooking grid gave me ample precision when fine-tuning the cooking temperature.

Another great feature is the ash removal system, which made cleaning a breeze after each use. This system prevents the usual mess and hassle that often accompanies a charcoal grill. Although the description mentioned that it requires stripping, I managed to avoid this step altogether and still had a smooth and hassle-free experience.

While the grilling experience was fantastic, I must note that the product arrived in a damaged condition, with several apparent issues that could impact long-term use, such as rusting and broken brackets. I hope this does not become a recurring problem for other users, but so far, the overall experience has been enjoyable and rewarding.

In conclusion, the Americana Walk-A-Bout Portable Red Charcoal Grill offers a great combination of portability, easy setup, and impressive temperature control. With a few minor improvements, this grill has the potential to become an even better choice for avid outdoor cooks like myself.

VEVOR Premium Portable Charcoal Kettle Grill with Wheels and Cover

VEVOR Premium Portable Charcoal Kettle Grill with Wheels and Cover | Image

Imagine the thrill of creating a scrumptious feast under the open sky with the VEVOR 22 inch Kettle Charcoal Grill. This charming companion for outdoor cooking is perfect for your camping trips, weekend getaways, and backyard barbecues.

Its premium porcelain-enameled finish not only adds a touch of elegance, but also ensures the retention of flavors for your meats, giving them that mouth-watering smoky taste. The wheels make transportation a breeze, while the cover protects the grill from weather elements, keeping it always ready for your next adventure.

The VEVOR Kettle Charcoal Grill is truly a joy to use and a staple for any outdoor enthusiast.

Portable Charcoal BBQ Grill MF Studio 18-inch

Portable Charcoal BBQ Grill MF Studio 18-inch | Image

Bring the flavors of BBQ to your backyard or the park with the MF Studio Portable Charcoal Grill. Made with durable stainless steel and porcelain-enameled lid and bowl, this compact grill is ideal for small gatherings.

With a heavy-duty chrome-plated grate and slide-out ash catcher, cleaning up after a cookout is effortless. Adjustable temperature regulation allows you to control and monitor cooking, resulting in perfectly cooked meals every time. Its lightweight design, complete with two wheels, makes transportation a breeze.

This versatile grill can be used for cooking, roasting, smoking, and braising, perfect for those looking to create amazing flame-grilled dishes. The MF Studio grill is a must-have for anyone who loves BBQ and appreciates a well-designed, user-friendly product.

Dyna-Glo Portable Charcoal Grill in Black

Dyna-Glo Portable Charcoal Grill in Black | Image

As I've been using the Dyna-Glo Portable Charcoal Grill, I'm impressed with how easy it is to take it on outdoor adventures. It's lightweight enough and has solid legs that fold easily when it's time to pack up. The grill itself offers enough cooking space to feed a crowd, and I appreciate that it's resistant to rust, which means it's built to last.

One of the highlights, for me, is the high-temperature black porcelain construction. It makes the Dyna-Glo grill an excellent choice for those who enjoy cooking outdoors frequently. The porcelain-coated steel grate is another positive feature that allows for even heating and ease of use.

However, there's a minor drawback to the design. The lid doesn't lock in place when folded for transportation, which might cause some issues if the grill is placed in a car or truck for extended periods. Additionally, some customers have reported receiving products that differ in appearance from the one they ordered, which could be a potential issue.

Despite these minor issues, overall the Dyna-Glo Portable Charcoal Grill has been a reliable and convenient addition to my outdoor cooking routine. It's a great choice for those who are in the market for a portable grill that doesn't compromise on quality and functionality.

Expert Grill 14.5'' Portable Charcoal Grill: Perfect for Tailgating, Camping, or Picnics

Expert Grill 14.5'’ Portable Charcoal Grill: Perfect for Tailgating, Camping, or Picnics | Image

The Expert 14.5'' Portable Charcoal Grill in Black is an ideal companion for your tailgate, camping trip, or picnic. With a porcelain coated lid and cooking surface, this budget-friendly grill is durable and easy to clean. Its 138 square inches of cooking space is perfect for grilling 8 burgers or your favorite foods simultaneously. Adjusting the temperature is a breeze with the easy-to-turn dampers, and for storage convenience, you can easily dump the ash once it's cooled down. This compact grill makes for an excellent choice for both small gatherings and outdoor adventures.

Buyer's Guide

When it comes to outdoor cooking, a portable charcoal grill can be the perfect solution for those who love to grill on the go. Whether you're tailgating, camping, or just enjoy cooking out in your backyard, a portable charcoal grill offers convenience and versatility. In this guide, we'll go over some key features, considerations, and advice to help you make an informed decision when choosing a portable charcoal grill.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of a portable charcoal grill are important factors to consider, especially if you plan on taking it with you on trips or transporting it between storage locations. Look for a grill that is compact and lightweight, made from durable materials that won't hinder your ability to move it around. A good portable charcoal grill should be easy to carry and set up, with minimal assembly required.

Cooking Surface

The cooking surface of your portable charcoal grill should be designed to withstand the high temperatures generated during use. Look for grills with sturdy, heat-resistant surfaces that can handle the intensity of charcoal cooking. The cooking surface should also be large enough to accommodate the amount of food you plan to cook at once.

Ventilation and Airflow

Proper ventilation and airflow are essential for even heating and efficient cooking. A well-designed portable charcoal grill will have vents that can be adjusted to control the flow of air and the intensity of the heat. Look for grills with easily accessible and adjustable vents, which will help you maintain optimal cooking conditions throughout your grilling session.

Ease of Cleanup

Cleaning your portable charcoal grill after each use is important not only to keep it in top condition, but also to prevent the buildup of grease and smoke. Choose a grill with removable, easy-to-clean grates and drip pans. Some high-quality grills even come with grease collection systems, making cleanup a breeze.

FAQ

What are the key features that make portable charcoal grills so convenient?

Portable charcoal grills are designed to be compact, lightweight, and easy to maneuver, perfect for events like outings, tailgating, or picnics where space is limited. They often have foldable legs, foldable cooking surfaces, and collapsible handles for hassle-free storage and transportation. Some portable options even come with wheels, making them even more portable and convenient for moving around. These features strike an ideal balance between portability and functionality, making them a great choice for a variety of situations.

What are the pros and cons of using a portable charcoal grill?

Pros: Portable charcoal grills offer a versatile option that allows you to cook wherever you want, whenever you want. They can cook everything from burgers and steaks to vegetables and more, giving you control over your cooking experience. The smoky flavor that comes from cooking over charcoal is also a plus, one you can't get with gas grills.

Cons: Charcoal grills may be messier to use compared to gas, and cleaning up can be a bit more time-consuming. Additionally, charcoal grills can produce a lot of smoke and emit some pollutants. However, most grills come equipped with features that help minimize these issues, such as a cover or a smoke stack. Lastly, some portable charcoal grills may not be as durable as larger stationary models due to their lightweight design.

Which factors should I consider when choosing a portable charcoal grill?

When choosing a portable charcoal grill, consider the weight and portability, as well as the size and cooking capacity. Look for a foldable design with durable wheels if you plan on moving your grill frequently. Good airflow is also crucial for even cooking, especially when using smaller or lighter grills. Make sure the grill has a strong base that can withstand temperatures up to 500°F (260°C). A thermometer is also a helpful feature to monitor temperature while cooking.

Consider the cost and warranty of the grill, keeping in mind the saying ‘you get what you pay for’.

How do I prepare my portable charcoal grill for its first use?

Before using your grill for the first time, ensure it's completely clean. Check and remove any residues, grease, or rust particles that need cleaning. Next, inspect the parts, including the igniter and cooking grate, for any visible damage. Now, follow the manufacturer's instructions to assemble and attach any necessary parts, and install any accessories that come with the grill. Make sure you have a level surface and that the wheels are locked before starting the grill.

What safety precautions should I take when using a portable charcoal grill?

First, always use your grill on a stable, flat, and non-flammable surface, away from any structures, trees, or shrubs to prevent fire hazards. Keep a fire extinguisher, bucket of water, or water hose nearby for emergencies. Never leave the grill unattended when in use.

Be cautious of burns by using oven mitts, heat-resistant gloves, or tongs when handling the grill or food. Always allow charcoal to burn out completely before disposal, and never pour water over the coals. Proper disposal of ashes is crucial for safety; it should be done in a metal container, away from flammable materials, and never on a porch or patio.

Do portable charcoal grills have cooking versatility?

Yes, portable charcoal grills can cook a wide range of foods, including proteins (steaks, chicken, burgers), vegetables (corn, bell peppers, asparagus), fruits, and even desserts. With proper heating management and control, you can cook almost anything on a portable charcoal grill. Just make sure your space is clean and well-oiled before putting food on the grill. Use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperatures for safety and accuracy. Don't be afraid to experiment with various recipes and cooking techniques for best results.

As an Amazon Associate, we may earn through qualified purchases at no cost to you.

--

--