If you’re new to barbecue and looking for a budget-friendly option, a charcoal grill is a great place to start. Charcoal grills are known for their ability to infuse food with a smoky flavor that gas grills simply can’t match. Plus, they’re easy to use and maintain, making them a great choice for beginners. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best charcoal BBQ grills for beginners, including options from top brands like Weber, Char-Broil, and Napoleon. Whether you’re looking for a small portable grill or a larger option with all the bells and whistles, we’ve got you covered. So, fire up the coals, grab your tongs, and let’s get grilling!
When choosing a grill for beginners, it’s important to consider factors such as size, budget, and features. A small portable grill is a good option for those with limited space, while a larger grill with multiple burners and additional features such as a side burner or rotisserie may be better suited for those who plan to entertain and cook for larger groups.
In short, charcoal grills are a great option for beginners who are looking for a budget-friendly, easy-to-use grill that infuses food with a smoky flavor.
Top Charcoal Grills For Beginners
Weber E-210
The Weber E-210 is a gas grill that is popular among beginners and experienced grillers alike. It is a 2 burner grill that offers a total cooking area of 360 square inches, which is perfect for cooking for a small family or a group of friends.
One of the main features of the Weber E-210 is its durable construction. The grill is built with porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates that are rust-resistant and easy to clean. The lid and bowl of the grill are also made of porcelain-coated steel, which is designed to withstand high temperatures and the elements.
The Weber E-210 also has an electronic ignition system that allows for easy start-up. The grill also features a fuel gauge that lets you know when it’s time to refill the propane tank. Additionally, the grill has two stainless steel burners that are durable and easy to clean.
The Weber E-210 also comes with a number of convenient features, such as a built-in thermometer in the lid, a side table for food preparation and storage, and a tool hook for hanging utensils. The grill also has a built-in lid hanger that allows you to keep the lid open while you’re cooking.
In summary, the Weber E-210 is a durable and reliable gas grill that is perfect for beginners. It offers a convenient and easy-to-use electronic ignition system, durable porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates, and additional features like a built-in thermometer, side table, tool hook, and built-in lid hanger. With its compact size and two burners, it is perfect for small families and groups of friends.
Pros
- Durable construction: The grill is built with porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates that are rust-resistant and easy to clean, and the lid and bowl of the grill are also made of porcelain-coated steel, which is designed to withstand high temperatures and the elements.
- Easy start-up: The grill has an electronic ignition system that allows for easy start-up.
- Fuel gauge: The grill features a fuel gauge that lets you know when it’s time to refill the propane tank.
- Convenient features: The Weber E-210 also comes with a number of convenient features, such as a built-in thermometer in the lid, a side table for food preparation and storage, and a tool hook for hanging utensils.
- Compact size: With its compact size and two burners, the Weber E-210 is perfect for small families and groups of friends.
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Cons
- Limited cooking space: The Weber E-210 has a total cooking area of 360 square inches, which may not be sufficient for larger families or groups.
- Limited temperature control: The Weber E-210 has only two burners, which may limit the ability to control the temperature for more advanced cooking techniques.
- Price: The Weber E-210 may be more expensive than some other grills on the market, particularly for those who are on a tight budget.
- Lack of built-in side burner: Some users may miss the convenience of a built-in side burner that can be found in some other models.
- Limited warranty: Weber E-210 comes with a limited warranty of 5 years on the burner, lid, and bowl.
Kamado Joe Jr.
The Kamado Joe Jr. is a compact and portable ceramic grill that is popular among beginners and experienced grillers alike. It is a single-lid grill that offers a total cooking area of 153 square inches, which is perfect for cooking for a small family or a group of friends.
One of the main features of the Kamado Joe Jr. is its heat-efficient design. The grill is constructed from a high-quality ceramic material that helps to retain heat and maintain a consistent temperature. Additionally, the grill has a heavy-duty stainless steel cooking grate that is rust-resistant and easy to clean.
The Kamado Joe Jr. also has an easy-to-use air vent system that allows for precise temperature control. The grill also features a built-in thermometer that lets you monitor the temperature inside the grill. Additionally, the grill has a stainless steel damper that is designed to help control airflow and maintain a consistent temperature.
The Kamado Joe Jr. also comes with a number of convenient features, such as a folding side shelf that can be used for food preparation and storage, and a durable steel cart that allows you to easily move the grill around. The grill also has a built-in ash pan that helps to make cleaning the grill a breeze.
The Kamado Joe Jr. is a heat-efficient, compact, and portable ceramic grill that is perfect for beginners. It offers precise temperature control, durable ceramic construction, and additional features like a built-in thermometer
Pros
- Heat efficiency: The grill is constructed from a high-quality ceramic material that helps to retain heat and maintain a consistent temperature.
- Temperature control: The grill has an easy-to-use air vent system that allows for precise temperature control and a built-in thermometer that lets you monitor the temperature inside the grill.
- Durable construction: The grill has a heavy-duty stainless steel cooking grate that is rust-resistant and easy to clean, and a steel cart that allows you to easily move the grill around.
- Convenient features: The Kamado Joe Jr. also comes with a number of convenient features, such as folding side shelves that can be used for food preparation and storage, and a built-in ash pan that helps to make cleaning the grill a breeze.
- Portable: The Kamado Joe Jr. is a compact and portable grill, which makes it perfect for camping, tailgating, or small patios.
Cons
- Limited cooking space: The Kamado Joe Jr. has a total cooking area of 153 square inches, which may not be sufficient for larger families or groups.
- Price: The Kamado Joe Jr. may be more expensive than some other grills on the market, particularly for those who are on a tight budget.
- Limited temperature range: Ceramic grills are known for their ability to maintain low temperatures, but they may not reach the high temperatures needed for certain cooking methods.
- Ceramic fragility: Ceramic grills can be fragile, and if mishandled or dropped, they can crack or break.
Cuisinart CCG-190RB
The Cuisinart CCG-190RB is a portable charcoal grill that is popular among beginners and experienced grillers alike. It is a 14-inch round grill that offers a total cooking area of 150 square inches, which is perfect for cooking for a small family or a group of friends.
One of the main features of the Cuisinart CCG-190RB is its compact and portable design. The grill is made of durable stainless steel and features a foldable stand and locking lid, which allows for easy transportation and storage.
The Cuisinart CCG-190RB also has an adjustable cooking grate that allows for precise temperature control. The grill also features a built-in thermometer that lets you monitor the temperature inside the grill. Additionally, the grill has a charcoal access door that allows you to add more charcoal or wood chips while cooking.
The Cuisinart CCG-190RB also comes with a number of convenient features, such as a foldable side shelf that can be used for food preparation and storage. Additionally, the grill has a built-in ash pan that helps to make cleaning the grill a breeze.
In summary, the Cuisinart CCG-190RB is a compact and portable charcoal grill that is perfect for beginners. It offers precise temperature control, durable stainless steel construction, and additional features like a built-in thermometer and foldable side shelves. Its compact size and foldable stand make it easy to transport and store.
Pros
- Compact and portable design: The grill is made of durable stainless steel and features a foldable stand and locking lid, which allows for easy transportation and storage.
- Temperature control: The grill has an adjustable cooking grate that allows for precise temperature control and a built-in thermometer that lets you monitor the temperature inside the grill.
- Convenient features: The Cuisinart CCG-190RB also comes with a number of convenient features, such as a foldable side shelves that can be used for food preparation and storage, and a built-in ash pan that helps to make cleaning the grill a breeze.
- Charcoal access door: The grill also has a charcoal access door that allows you to add more charcoal or wood chips while cooking, which makes it easy to maintain temperature and fuel levels.
- Affordable price: The Cuisinart CCG-190RB is reasonably priced, making it a great option for those who are on a tight budget.
Cons
- Limited cooking space: The Cuisinart CCG-190RB has a total cooking area of 150 square inches, which may not be sufficient for larger families or groups.
- Limited temperature range: Charcoal grills are known for their ability to reach high temperatures, but they may not maintain low temperatures for certain cooking methods.
- Limited warranty: Cuisinart CCG-190RB comes with a limited warranty of 3 years
Assembly required
Portable Kitchen PK360 Grill and Smoker
The Portable Kitchen PK360 Grill and Smoker is a versatile and durable grill that is perfect for both beginners and experienced grillers. It offers a total cooking area of 453 square inches, which is ample space for cooking for a large family or a group of friends.
One of the main features of the Portable Kitchen PK360 Grill and Smoker is its dual-function design. The grill can be used as both a traditional charcoal grill and a smoker, which allows you to cook a variety of dishes using different methods.
The Portable Kitchen PK360 Grill and Smoker also has an adjustable cooking grate that allows for precise temperature control. The grill also features a built-in thermometer that lets you monitor the temperature inside the grill. Additionally, the grill has a unique airflow system that allows you to control the amount of oxygen that reaches the coals, which helps to maintain a consistent temperature.
The Portable Kitchen PK360 Grill and Smoker also comes with a number of convenient features, such as foldable side shelves that can be used for food preparation and storage, and a built-in ash pan that helps to make cleaning the grill a breeze. Additionally, the grill has a durable steel cart that allows you to easily move the grill around.
The Portable Kitchen PK360 Grill and Smoker is a versatile and durable grill that is perfect for beginners and experienced grillers. It offers a large cooking area, precise temperature control, and additional features like a built-in thermometer and foldable side shelves. Its unique air flow system and dual-function design make it a great option for those who want to cook a variety of dishes using different methods.
Pros
- Dual-function design: The grill can be used as both a traditional charcoal grill and a smoker, which allows you to cook a variety of dishes using different methods.
- Large cooking area: The Portable Kitchen PK360 Grill and Smoker offers a total cooking area of 453 square inches, which is ample space for cooking for a large family or a group of friends.
- Temperature control: The grill has an adjustable cooking grate that allows for precise temperature control and a built-in thermometer that lets you monitor the temperature inside the grill.
- Unique air flow system: The grill has a unique airflow system that allows you to control the amount of oxygen that reaches the coals, which helps to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Convenient features: The Portable Kitchen PK360 Grill and Smoker also comes with a number of convenient features, such as a foldable side shelves that can be used for food preparation and storage, and a built-in ash pan that helps to make cleaning the grill a breeze. Additionally, the grill has a durable steel cart that allows you to easily move the grill around.
Cons
- Price: The Portable Kitchen PK360 Grill and Smoker may be more expensive than some other grills on the market, particularly for those who are on a tight budget.
- Assembly required: The Portable Kitchen PK360 Grill and Smoker requires assembly, which may take some time and effort.
- Limited warranty: Portable Kitchen PK360 Grill and Smoker comes with a limited warranty
How To Choose The Right Grill
When choosing the right grill for you, there are several factors to consider:
Size
Consider the amount of space you have available for a grill, and choose a size that will fit comfortably in that space. Also, consider the number of people you typically cook for and choose a grill that will accommodate that number of people.
Cooking Method
Consider the type of cooking you will be doing. Do you want a traditional charcoal grill, a gas grill, or a smoker? Each type of grill has its own unique features and abilities, and it’s important to choose one that will best suit your needs.
Features
Look for features that will make grilling more convenient and efficient for you. For example, temperature control and built-in thermometer are very useful to control the heat and monitor the temperature inside the grill. Foldable side shelves can be useful for food preparation and storage.
Durability
Choose a grill that is made from durable materials that will stand up to the elements and regular use. Stainless steel is a good option because it is rust-resistant and easy to clean.
Price
Consider your budget when choosing a grill. There are a wide range of options available at different price points, so it’s important to find one that fits your budget while still meeting your needs.
Warranty
Look for a grill that comes with a warranty that covers the grill in case of any defects or malfunctions.
By considering these factors, you can choose a grill that best suits your needs and preferences, and that will provide you with many years of enjoyable grilling.
Final Thoughts
There are many great charcoal grills available for beginners, each with its own unique features and abilities. The Weber E-210, Kamado Joe Jr, Cuisinart CCG-190RB, and Portable Kitchen PK360 Grill and Smoker are all great options for those who are new to grilling.
The Weber E-210 is a reliable and easy-to-use grill that offers a spacious cooking area and convenient features like a built-in thermometer. The Kamado Joe Jr is a compact and portable grill that is perfect for small spaces and has a unique design that allows for precise temperature control. The Cuisinart CCG-190RB is a budget-friendly option that is easy to use and features a foldable stand and locking lid for easy transportation and storage. The Portable Kitchen PK360 Grill and Smoker is a versatile and durable grill that offers a large cooking area, precise temperature control, and additional features like a built-in thermometer and foldable side shelves.
Ultimately, the best charcoal grill for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. By considering factors such as size, cooking method, features, durability, price, and warranty, you can choose the grill that will provide you with many years of enjoyable grilling.
