10 Best Charcoal Grills 2025 in the United States

The Kamado Joe Big Joe Series II is a standout option in the charcoal grill category, particularly for those who enjoy versatility and high-quality cooking experiences. One of its key strengths is the generous cooking area of 450 square inches, enhanced by the exclusive divide & conquer flexible cooking system. This allows for multilevel cooking, enabling users to prepare different foods simultaneously, which is ideal for gatherings or family meals. The air lift hinge is another excellent feature, making it effortless to lift the grill dome, providing comfort while grilling.

The build quality is impressive, with a ceramic body and stainless steel grates, ensuring durability and excellent heat retention. The patented control tower vent allows for fine-tuned airflow management, which is crucial for achieving the desired cooking temperature. Additionally, the innovative fiberglass gasket enhances the grill's airtight seal, extending the life of the grill.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. The size and weight of the grill may make it less portable than some users might prefer, particularly those who need to move it frequently for storage or transport. While it has features that enhance ease of cleaning, the ceramic material can still require careful handling to avoid damage. This grill is particularly suited for enthusiasts who prioritize a versatile cooking experience and appreciate quality craftsmanship. It might be less ideal for those seeking a lightweight or easily transportable option. If you're looking for a high-performance charcoal grill that excels in functionality and design, the Kamado Joe Big Joe Series II is worth considering.

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 Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill stands out with its 22-inch diameter cooking area, providing a sizable 363 square inch cooking surface, ideal for medium to large gatherings. The material and build quality are top-notch, featuring a porcelain-enameled bowl and lid that ensure durability and rust resistance. This grill also includes an aluminized steel One-Touch cleaning system with a high-capacity ash catcher, making post-cookout cleanup straightforward and hassle-free.

The added Touch-N-Go gas ignition system is a unique feature, offering the convenience of quick charcoal lighting without the need for lighter fluid, although the propane tank is not included with the purchase. Ventilation and temperature control are well-managed with a built-in lid thermometer and adjustable dampers, enabling precise heat regulation. However, the grill is somewhat bulky and heavy, weighing in at 91 pounds, which may affect portability for some users.

The inclusion of a removable LCD cook timer and tool hooks adds practical value, while the CharBin storage container provides a handy space for charcoal storage. Assembly is required but is simplified with 3D interactive instructions available through the BILT app. Despite its excellent features, the hefty weight and larger footprint may be a drawback for those with limited space or who need a grill that is easier to move around. This grill is highly recommended for outdoor cooking enthusiasts looking for a high-quality, feature-rich charcoal grill with enhanced convenience and ease of use.