Things to Consider When Choosing a Charcoal Grill Under $200
Before we dive into our top picks, let’s take a moment to discuss what you should consider when shopping for a charcoal grill under $200.
- Size: Charcoal grills come in a range of sizes, from small tabletop models to large, full-sized grills. Consider how much cooking area you’ll need and how much space you have available before making your purchase.
- Material: The material of your grill can affect its durability and performance. Look for grills made of high-quality materials like stainless steel or porcelain-coated cast iron.
- Airflow: Good airflow is crucial for achieving a consistent temperature and preventing flare-ups. Look for grills with adjustable vents to control the airflow.
- Ease of Use: Charcoal grilling requires a bit more effort than gas grilling, but some models are easier to use than others. Look for grills with features like an ash catcher or easy-to-clean grates to make cleanup a breeze.
The Best Charcoal Grills Under $200
1. Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
The Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill is an iconic classic that has been in production for more than 60 years. This grill features a 22-inch cooking grate, providing ample space to grill food for a family gathering. The porcelain-enameled lid and bowl are designed to withstand high temperatures and resist rust and peeling. The grill also features a built-in lid thermometer, ash catcher, and One-Touch cleaning system, making cleanup a breeze.
Pros:
- Iconic classic design and high-quality construction
- Large cooking area of 363 square inches
- Features a built-in lid thermometer and ash catcher for easy cleanup
- One-Touch cleaning system makes it easy to dispose of ash
- Good ventilation for precise temperature control
- Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl provide durability and resistance to rust and peeling
Cons:
- Limited workspace with no side tables
2. Char-Griller Akorn Jr. Kamado Kooker Charcoal Grill
The Char-Griller Akorn Jr. Kamado Kooker is a great option for those looking for a portable and versatile charcoal grill. Its 153 square inch cooking surface can easily fit up to six burgers at a time, making it great for a small family. Made from 22 gauge steel with a porcelain-coated interior, this grill offers durability and excellent heat retention. It also features adjustable dampers and a built-in temperature gauge for easy temperature control.
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight design
- Kamado-style grill allows for multiple cooking methods including grilling, smoking, and roasting
- Adjustable dampers and built-in temperature gauge for precise temperature control
- Porcelain-coated interior provides durability and heat retention
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Small cooking surface of 153 square inches
3. Royal Gourmet CD1824A Charcoal Grill
The Royal Gourmet CD1824A Charcoal Grill offers a sizable cooking area of 474 square inches, perfect for those who love to entertain. Made with heavy-duty steel with a black surface coating, this grill is both durable and attractive. The cooking grates are made of porcelain-enameled cast iron, providing excellent heat retention and even heat distribution. The grill also features an adjustable charcoal pan height, removable ash pan for easy cleanup, and a folding side shelf for additional workspace.
Pros:
- Large cooking area of 474 square inches
- Porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates for even heat distribution and retention
- Folding side shelf adds extra workspace
- Adjustable charcoal pan height for precise temperature control
- Removable ash pan for easy cleaning
- Storage shelves underneath the grill for added convenience
Cons:
- Heavy and not easily portable
4. Dyna-Glo DGN486DNC-D Heavy Duty Charcoal Grill
The Dyna-Glo DGN486DNC-D Heavy Duty Charcoal Grill features a total cooking area of 686 square inches, making it one of the biggest models on our list. The grill is made with heavy-duty steel, ensuring durability and heat retention. The grates are made of porcelain-enameled cast iron, providing excellent heat distribution and retention. It also has adjustable charcoal trays and an adjustable flue, allowing you to control the heat and smoke for perfect cooking results. This grill also features storage shelves and wheels for easy portability.
Pros:
- Extremely large cooking area of 686 square inches
- Porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates for even heat distribution and retention
- Adjustable charcoal trays and flue for precise temperature control
- Storage shelves and wheels for easy portability
- Durable and heavy-duty construction
Cons:
- The unit may be heavier than some other models, making it less portable
5. Char-Broil American Gourmet Deluxe Offset Smoker
If you’re looking to take your grilling to the next level and try your hand at smoking, the Char-Broil American Gourmet Deluxe Offset Smoker is an excellent option. It features a spacious cooking area of 670 square inches, including a 355 square inch offset firebox for smoking. The grill is made of durable steel and includes porcelain-coated cooking grates for easy cleaning. It also includes adjustable dampers and a built-in temperature gauge for precise temperature control.
Pros:
- Spacious cooking area of 670 square inches
- Offset firebox for smoking
- Adjustable dampers and built-in temperature gauge for precise temperature control
- Porcelain-coated cooking grates for easy cleanup
- Durable steel construction
Cons:
- The model may be heavy, making it less portable
