For those looking forward to buying the best grill under $500, here is a complete guide to choosing the best.
Charcoals grills have always been the number one choice of most grilling enthusiasts. The reason is simple, the heat is perfect, and the taste is simply delicious. The charcoal grill is known to impart the best flavor to the meat and vegetables. Also, today the charcoals grills are not that hassling anymore. They are manufactured more durably and have features that will give electric grills run for their money.
Model | Our Rating | Cooking Area | Warranty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere
 | 9.1 | 160 | 2Y/10Y |  |
Weber 441001 Original Kettle 18 inch
 | 9.3 | 240 | 2Y/10Y | |
Weber 40020 Smokey Joe Premium 14 Inch
 | 8.8 | 147 | 2Y/10Y | |
 | 9.9 | 363 | 2Y/10Y | |
Weber 15501001 Performer Deluxe
 | 9.9 | 363 | 2Y/10Y | |
Weber Original Kettle Premium 22 Inch
 | 9.8 | 363 | 2Y/10Y | |
Weber 15301001 Performer
 | 9.6 | 363 | 2Y/10Y | |
Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22 inch
 | 9.3 | 363 | 2Y/10Y | |
Weber 14501001 Master-Touch, 22-Inch
 | 9.3 | 443 | 2Y/10Y | |
Weber Original Kettle Premium 26 Inch
 | 9.0 | 508 | 2Y/10Y | |
Weber 15401001 Performer Premium  Cooking Area, sq. in.: 363 Warranty: 2 years / 10 years Made in: China  |
Weber 15501001 Performer Deluxe Cooking Area, sq. in.: 363 Warranty: 2 years / 10 years Made in: China |
Weber Original Kettle Premium 22 Inch  Cooking Area, sq. in.: 363 Warranty: 2 years / 10 years Made in: China |
Weber 15301001 Performer  Cooking Area, sq. in.: 363 Warranty: 2 years / 10 years Made in: China |
Weber 14501001 Master-Touch, 22-Inch  Cooking Area, sq. in.: 443 Warranty: 2 years / 10 years Made in: China |
Weber 441001 Original Kettle 18 inch Cooking Area, sq. in.: 240 Warranty: 2 years / 10 years Made in: China |
Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22 inch Cooking Area, sq. in.: 363 Warranty: 2 years / 10 years Made in: China |
Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere  Cooking Area, sq. in.: 160 Warranty: 2 years / 10 years Made in: China |
Weber Original Kettle Premium 26 Inch  Cooking Area, sq. in.: 508 Warranty: 2 years / 10 years Made in: China |
Weber 40020 Smokey Joe Premium 14 Inch  Cooking Area, sq. in.: 147 Warranty: 2 years / 10 years Made in: China |
Benefits of Charcoal Grills
There are many benefits of choosing a charcoal grill. Some of them are mentioned below.
Higher Temperature
Compared to gas grills, charcoal grills have a higher temperature. This high temperature helps with faster cooking and, also the cooked chicken, fish, steak, and vegetables will have a nice crispy outer skin. So, one gets to enjoy meat that is crispy outside and juicy and tender on the inside.
Dual Cooking Zone
Charcoal grills let the user master the skills of dual cooking, which cannot be done with gas grills unless it comes with different cooking zones with separate burners. Such separation is not needed; stack more coal on one side and get two different cooking zones. This benefit allows the user to slow cook on one side and smoke the food on the other. Make a variety of dishes all at once.
Easier To Transport
Charcoal grills have fewer attachments and are comparatively lighter in weight which makes them more portable. Also, it is easier to carry a sack of charcoal than a tank of propane. Even the larger charcoal grills can be conveniently moved from one place to another. This benefit makes it easier to take the charcoal grills for tailgating and camping.
Better Control
Charcoal heats up fast, and the temperature is usually very high. So the meat may start cooking very fast. Simply move the meat to the cooler side, where it can rest and absorb all the smoky flavors. Another tip to control the temperature is a thermometer if it does not already come with the grill. Gauging the temperature inside the meat and the Grill will help in cooking at a consistent temperature.
Delicious Flavors
One of the best things about food cooked over charcoal grills is the smoky and woody flavors. When it falls on the burning coal, the dripping from the food instantly turns into a smoky flavor and gets infused with the food cooking on top, adding to its flavor. Another thing that can be done in charcoal grills is that if the user wants, they can add different flavors to the burning coal to add different flavors to the food.
Easy Repairing
As said above, a charcoal grill does not have many attachments and parts, so there is not much to repair in the first place. And in case something gets damaged, then simply replace the parts. The cost is very affordable.
Buying Guide
When buying a charcoal grill, one needs to consider a few things about it. Based on preferences, choose the one that will suit the requirements.
Types of Charcoal Grills
Based on the difference in airflow, there is the normal charcoal grill and a kamado grill. They also differ in terms of shape. The charcoal grill permits plenty of airflow during the cooking process, whereas the kamado grills permit very little airflow. The more airflow, the more quickly the fuel extinguishes. So kamado grills are more fuel-efficient. As for the built, kamado grills are made of ceramic and charcoal grills of steel. Ceramic takes longer to heat up than steel, but it also retains the heat for longer.
If one is looking for something conventional, the charcoal grills are best and if they want to experiment with a cooking style, then go for the kamado grills.
Grill Configuration
When it comes to the grill configuration, one needs to consider where they will install their grill. There are freestanding charcoal grills and built-in charcoal grills. The former is a grill on legs, whereas the latter is more stationery. It looks like a built-in kitchen gas stove. Both are outdoor grills; one gives more mobility, whereas the other does not. The freestanding grill can be taken on fishing or camping, and the built-in Grill is long-lasting and makes the backyard look more classy and sophisticated.
Size
When considering the size of the Grill, start with answering these questions:
- What is the maximum portion size that will be cooked in a single time?
- How many people's food will be grilled daily?
- How often does one cook eth maximum portion size?
After answering them, one will have an estimation of how big of a grill they require. Big size does not just mean bigger cooking space, but it also increases its features. Here are the basic charcoal grill sizes:
- Large charcoal grill: it is best if one frequently holds family gatherings or gamedays. This charcoal grill gives one complete freedom to cook in any style with any setup. One can sear 20 steaks in one go.
- Medium charcoal grill: if one has a large family, then this Grill can be a good addition to the appliances. It has enough room to cook both side dishes and main dishes together.
- Small charcoal grill: these grills have 26 inches wide grates or less. Perfect for small families or couples. Because of its smaller size, it can be carried to tailgating or camping.
Temperature Management
Heat and temperature are some of the most important elements when it comes to cooking on a grill. Usually, it becomes difficult to manage the temperature in charcoal grills, but there are 2 ways of doing it. The first is by adding more fuel or charcoal to the grill, and the second is by using the control mechanism to adjust the airflow. Both these techniques have the same objective, to control the combustion level of the coal. Smaller fire means less heat and, bigger fire means increased heat.
It is best to look for a charcoal grill to have access to both these techniques as it makes it easier to monitor the heat and avoids spoiling or burning the food. Some grills also come with a thermometer that reads the internal temperature of the Grill and food. This is also a handy tool.
Cleaning is very important if one wants to elongate the lifespan of their Grill. In charcoal grills, cleaning the charcoal ash in the charcoal pit is a must, or else if it by any chance gets wet, then the alkalinity in it will erode the steel.
Look for grills that make it easy to clean the Grill. A charcoal grill with an ash basket is the preferable a good choice. Also, if it comes with a cleaning tool, it will reduce the time spent on cleaning. Remember to avoid dumping all the ash in the backyard as it can be hazardous for pets.
Availability of Accessories
When buying a charcoal grill, do not just focus on the cooking space and temperature controls. Some grill models come with many other plug-and-play accessories that make the cooking experience even better. Some of the common accessories are:
- A charcoal chimney that makes it easy to ignite the grill;
- For electric charcoal grills, an electric charcoal starter or lighter;
- An ash tool to stoke the coal and clean the ash after cooking is finished;
If the Grill does not come with a grill cover, then make sure to buy one.
How To Season a Charcoal Grill
Here are 3 easy steps to follow to season a new or old charcoal grill.
Remove-Rinse-Air Dry the Grates
First step is to remove the grate. In some units, the grate can be lifted off the Grill, whereas, in some, one will need to unhook it carefully. If the grates have not been cleaned in a long time, wear gloves. With new ones, a simple rinse is all that is needed. The old ones need to be cleaned using cleaning agents and abrasives. Once clean, leave it to air dry.
Oil the Grates
Use a basting brush, new paintbrush, or paper towel to oil grates. For new ones, oil the emitters, pit, and lid too. Seasoning involves smoking the Grill which, can take around 2 hours. So use vegetable oil with a high smoking point and is highly heat resistant. While oiling the grate, make sure there is no excessive oil dripping down. Too much oil can set off grease fire.
Preheat and Heat the Grill
Charcoal grills require to be preheated before placing the grates. Simply put some burning briquettes in the pit and close the lid for 15 minutes. Then put the grates back and add briquettes that can burn for 1 hour. Once the time is up, the Grill is all seasoned up.
Barrel Barbecue Grill
Barrel barbeques are also called oil drum BBQs. They are barbeque grills that are made out of recycled or new oil drums. The drum is usually of 42 to 96 US gallons. The fuel source is charcoal, and the barbeque is very good to smoke meat.
Some of its benefits are mentioned below.
Comes in Many Sizes
These barrel barbeques come in multiple sizes. So one will be able to find the size they prefer. It ranges from small family-friendly sizes to large enough to use for catering businesses. This size range gives the buyer plenty of options to choose from.
Multi-Tiered Grates
One can add extra grates to the barrel barbecue. Thus, it can be used to slow cook meat and vegetables and keep the food warm until everybody is ready to start eating. This flexibility is another advantage of these BBQs.
Robust Design
Oil drums have hoops around them, making the frame sturdier than a simple cylindrical design. So these recycled barrel barbecues have a longer life than a standard grill.
Repurposed
Repurposed oil drums make barrel barbecues. It is good for the environment and, also, if one has such an oil drum at disposable, they can build themselves a grill of their preference.
Rotisserie Charcoal Grill
Rotisserie grills are best to grill and roast the meat evenly. If one wants to slow cook the food, then this is the best grill for that process. Make sure to consider the following things before buying one of these rotisserie grills.
Grill Size
Like any other grill, it is important to check the grill size and choose those that suit your preferences. Consider the quantity of meat that will be cooked on it most of the time. An extra tip- buy a rotisserie grill that can at least fit a full chicken in it.
Built-in Cover
Many may think that a cover is not that important in a rotisserie grill, but a cover can fasten the cooking process. Also, it does not allow any rust or dirt to dirty the food. It is good for hygiene purposes.
Rustproof
Look for a rustproof grill as it makes the life of the grill longer. A grill that is not rustproof will dirty the Grill very fast, and one will have to try too hard to clean it and that regularly. A rustproof grill will be easier to clean.
Adjustability
The parts and tools that come with the rotisserie grill should be adjustable. This is important as it gives one the flexibility to cook the meat as they want to.
Slow ‘N Sear Review
Slow ‘N Sear is a very popular grill accessory that many like to use with their grills. It is most beneficial for people who:
- Do not have the budget or the place for a separate smoker.
- Are new to the whole smoking cooking process. They want to test the techniques before buying a dedicated smoker.
- Want to use the reverse searing method to cook some perfect steaks.
Slow 'N Sear Original for 22" Charcoal Grill from SnS Grills  |
This accessory is very sturdy in quality. Once bought, it will work for many upcoming years. Even after regular use, it will not easily get bent or dented. Another good thing about the Slow ‘N Sear is that the heat is very consistent.
Some Tips for Using Slow ‘N Sear
- Use hot water to fill the reservoir. This way, steam comes off immediately.
- Charcoal briquettes are preferred over lump charcoals. The same-sized briquettes provide a stable temperature.
- When one takes the lid off to check on the cooking process, make sure to do it quickly. The extra oxygen that the fire gets when left open will burn the coals quickly, and this method would not be used to lower the grill temperature.
- Clean up the ash when required so that it does not interfere with the airflow.
Charcoal Grill with Adjustable Grate Height
Adjustable grate height is a feature that has eliminated the problem of food getting burned due to a flare-up or constantly watching it to avoid overcooking the food. The charcoal grill with adjustable grate height also has multiple cooking levels to bring more control and versatility to the cooking process. One or two ergonomic handles will make it easy to move the grate to different height positions.
Some of the benefits that this additional feature adds to a charcoal grill are:
Manage the Heat Level
With adjustable grate heights, one can move the food up and down depending on the heat they want to cook in. There will be fewer chances of the food getting overcooked or burnt. One will be able to cook the steak, chicken, and veggies to the perfect level.
Keep the Food Warm
Use the adjustable feature to keep the warm food right over the charcoal pit. So even if the food is cooked and people are not ready to eat it, the food will not get cold. No more putting extra effort to reheat the food later when everyone is ready to eat.
Eating Straight Off the Grate
Once the food is cooked, move it away from the direct heat and set it higher up on the Grill. People can bring their plates to the Grill and directly take them from there. An even better thing is one can also eat directly off the grate.
Reviews
Weber 15501001 Performer Deluxe
Specifications
- Weight: 91 pounds;
- Size: 40 x 35 x 43.5 inches;
- Grate material: steel grates with a porcelain coating;
- Grill size: 363 sq. in.;
- Fuel type: charcoal grill with propane ignition.
Weber 15501001 Performer Deluxe is a well-built and sturdy grill with several features that make grilling easy, fun, and easy.
The 363 sq. in Grill is large for bigger batches of food to be grilled. Also, the lid height is 7.5 inches, making it easy to cook a larger piece of meat on the Grill. The grates are coated with porcelain making them non-stick and easy to clean.
There is an in-built thermometer in the Grill and a temperature display that makes the temperature control easy. One can easily control the heat without lifting the lid numerous times, as the damper knob is on the outside.
There is a mounted timer on the Grill for adjusting the preheating time. Grill has one-touch ignition with easy charcoal management for direct and indirect heating. There is a separate charcoal bin for better storage as well. One gets an extra table space with the Grill with rolling wheels for easy movement during outdoor parties.
Pros:
Cons:
Weber 15501001 Performer Deluxe is one of the most reputed charcoal grills by Weber, which is feature-packed and backed by good after-sales service.
Weber 15401001 Performer Premium
Specifications
- Weight: 91 pounds;
- Size: 30 x 48 x 43.5 inches;
- Grate material: steel grates with a porcelain coating;
- Grill size: 363 sq. in.;
- Fuel type: charcoal grill with propane ignition.
This 22-inch charcoal grill by Weber is a good choice for cooking their food without any hassle. The grill has porcelain-coated grates that can be unhinged to replace other cooking surfaces like pizza stones.
The cooking surface of 363 sq. is quite effective for making larger batches of food, fitting up to 13 burgers. There is a large lid that can be secured on the side. There is an easy cleaning feature along with a safe ash bin that can be removed.
The backlit LED temperature screen, along with the controlling heat system, is quite effective. A thermometer is installed in the lid, and an easy-to-use timer on the outside. There is a weatherproof charcoal bin.
One gets an extra space on the side with a foldable table with the wheel on it. Also, there is a tool hanging rack on the grill table.
Pros:
Cons:
Weber 15401001 Performer Premium is another gem from the Weber charcoal kettle grill collection. It is easy to use and has a plethora of features to make weekend BBQ parties fun.
Weber Original Kettle Premium 22 Inch
Specifiations
- Weight: 32 pounds;
- Size: 100 x 57 x 68 inches;
- Grate material: steel grates with a porcelain coating;
- Grill size: 363 sq. in.;
- Fuel type: charcoal grill.
Weber Original Kettle Premium 22 Inch is a grill that is perfect for the smaller crowd on weekends. The grill size of 363 sq. in is quite good for cooking burgers and meat together. Also, the high-quality grates allow better heat distribution.
One can cook different food items using various heat-controlling features. The smoke is easily removed from the grill while cooking. One can use the one-touch cleaning feature to get rid of the ash. The timer on the grill allows better cooking of different types of meat and vegetables.
One thing to keep in mind is that this does not have a one-touch ignition feature.
Pros:
Cons:
Weber Original Kettle Premium 22 Inch is a pocket-friendly kettle grill that fits the bill perfectly. One can easily cook for a smaller crowd and use the different features for an easy and hassle-free cook.
Weber 15301001 Performer
Specifications
- Weight: 66.2 pounds
- Size: 43 x 42 x 29 inches
- Grate material: steel grates with a porcelain coating
- Grill size: 363 sq. in.
- Fuel type: charcoal grill.
Weber 15301001 Performer is a kettle grill by Weber, which allows easy cooking for a smaller gathering. One can cook 13 hot dogs or burgers at the same time. The grates can be removed and replaced with other GBS inserts to diversify the cooking capabilities. The overall built of the grill is sturdy and strong.
There is no touch-and-go ignition system, but igniting the grill is quite easy. The cleanup is easy with a one-touch cleaning feature that removes ash in a minute. There is extra space on the table along with wheels to take the cart around.
Pros:
Cons:
Weber 15301001 Performer is a high-performing charcoal grill that makes cooking easy and hassles-free. This grill is a good option for those looking to cook different things for a weekend party.
Weber 14501001 Master-Touch, 22-Inch
Specifications
- Weight: 91 pounds;
- Size: 42 x 24 x 29.5 inches;
- Grate material: steel grates with a porcelain coating;
- Grill size: 453 sq. in.;
- Fuel type: charcoal grill.
Weber 14501001 Master-Touch is a reliable and durable grill that is perfect for home parties and camping. The grill body is aluminum with an enamel coating that makes it weatherproof and helps in retaining heat.
The grill has a basic cooking surface of 363 sq. in along with a warming rack of 80 sq. in. the grates are compatible with adding inserts for a variety of cooking styles. Also, one can easily lift the grates and add charcoal while cooking.
One of the best things about this grill is the charcoal organization for both direct cooking and direct cooking. The lid has aluminum dampers that can effectively help in controlling the heat. There is also a char basket added to the grill.
The grill has an in lid thermometer that helps in managing the heat inside the lid. The lid is well built to the point that it does not allow any heat loss while cooking. An easy cleanup system with a removable ash bucket is an added benefit one gets.
Pros:
Cons:
Weber 14501001 Master-Touch of 22 inches is a good choice for those looking to buy something small yet have a larger cooking surface.
Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22 Inch
Specifications
- Weight: 91 pounds;
- Size: 22 x 25 x 39.5 inches;
- Grate material: steel grates with a porcelain coating;
- Grill size: 363 sq. in.;
- Fuel type: charcoal grill.
Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22 Inch is a grill that meets all the demands of a good and reliable charcoal grill. The body of the grill is enameled and is thus weatherproof. The cooking grates are plated steel instead of cast iron. But the quality of the grates is good as it allows easy heat spread to cook evenly. It is also easy to clean after cooking.
The grates allow both direct and indirect heating with the charcoal organization. The in lid thermometer allows better cooking with perfect temperature management without removing the lid again and again.
Pros:
Cons:
Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22 Inch is a lightweight yet sturdy grill that is large enough to make bigger batches of food. One gets a lot many features in this price range along with a Weber guarantee.
Weber 441001 Original Kettle 18 inch
Specifications
- Weight: 3.31 pounds;
- Size: 18 x 23 x 35 inches;
- Grate material: steel grates;
- Grill size: 240 sq. in.;
- Fuel type: charcoal grill;
Weber 441001 Original Kettle 18 inch is a small and portable grill that fits the budget perfectly. The 240 sq. in. grate is made of steel plating and is good for making heat spread properly for better cooking. The lid is 5 inches high, which allows cooking bigger meat sizes.
The lid can be tucked on the side of the grill without having to put it on the ground. The charcoal can be easily organized for both direct and indirect grilling. The grates are easy to clean and allow better heating for even cooking.
Pros:
Cons:
Weber 441001 Original Kettle 18 inch is a small yet sturdy charcoal grill that fits perfectly for a backyard weekend party. One can easily cook for a smaller group of people.
Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere
Specifications
- Weight: 13.5 lbs;
- Size: 11.5 x 19.5 x 15 inches;
- Grate material: plated steel grates with a porcelain coating;
- Grill size: 160 sq. in.;
- Fuel type: charcoal grill.
Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere is an easy to use and travel-friendly grill for campers. This is a small grill but has a lot of space with 160 sq. in. grill surface area that makes up to 5-6 burgers in a single time.
The grill body is made of porcelain-coated plated steel, making it quite strong, durable, and weatherproof. The lid can be locked, and it retains the heat perfectly. One of the best things about the grill's legs is using them to clock the lid while on the go. Some dampeners allow easy control of the heat while cooking.
Pros:
Cons:
Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere is a small and camp-friendly grill that helps cook for a group of people easily. It is user-friendly and powerful in cooking almost all types of food.
Weber Original Kettle Premium 26 Inch
Specifications
- Weight: 57 pounds;
- Size: 42 x 27 x 33 inches;
- Grate material: steel grates;
- Grill size: 508 sq. in.;
- Fuel type: charcoal grill.
The design and structuring of Weber Original Kettle Premium 26 Inch are perfect for a larger grill type. The grill has a cooking area of 508 sq. in. which is perfect for making a larger amount of food. The 8.5 inches of lid height makes the grill spacious.
The in-lid thermometer makes the grill easy with continuous temperature management without having to lift the lid. The dampers are highly effective in controlling the heat. Also, the lid is quite tight and helps in retaining the heat effectively.
A one-touch cleaning system allows cleanup of the ash from the fuel bucket into the larger ash bucket.
Pros:
Cons:
Weber Original Kettle Premium 26 Inch is a large grill for backyard BBQ parties. The grill has a large grate surface area along with a sturdier and durable design. The features of the grill are quite useful in making a different type of food without any hassle.
Weber 40020 Smokey Joe Premium 14 Inch
Specifications
- Weight: 9.8 pounds;
- Size: 15 x 15 x 9 inches;
- Grate material: steel grates;
- Grill size: 147 sq. in.;
- Fuel type: charcoal grill.
Weber 40020 Smokey Joe Premium 14 Inch is a small portable grill that allows cooking 5-6 burgers or hotdogs simultaneously. The build and design of the grill are strong and studied, with weatherproof coating on it.
The cooking surface area is large as compared to other grills of the same price range. The grates are coated in nickel coating, which is non-stick and also allows better spreading of heat.
Pros:
Cons:
Weber 40020 Smokey Joe Premium 14 Inch is a small and portable smoker and grill that one can use for camping and tailgating. The grill is lightweight and has good cooking features for a budget-friendly grill.
Charcoal grills are the best if one wants the perfect flavor and charred taste of their meat and burgers. There are several best grills under $500 in the market, and one can always choose based on the features, durability, and cost. One should check the features like the body of the grill, the cooking surface area, the lid type, the heat and temperature control system, and the cleaning system.
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