6 Best Type of Charcoal Grill for Beginners of 2026 – Easy to Use

The GRILL DEPOTS 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner & Charcoal Trays is a dual-fuel workhorse that brings serious versatility to any outdoor cooking setup. Whether you’re a backyard enthusiast who loves slow-smoked ribs, a camper who wants quick propane burgers, or a tailgater needing both griddle space and charcoal flavor, this combo grill delivers. It’s a free-standing unit with a 448 sq in cooking area, four main burners totaling 40,000 BTUs, plus a 9,000 BTU side burner for sauces or sides. The build feels solid for the price, with a stainless steel lid and frame, porcelain-enameled cast iron grates, and a removable stainless steel griddle.

In real-world use, the gas burners heat up quickly and hold temperature well enough for searing steaks and cooking burgers for a crowd. The cast iron grates give you those nice sear marks, and the griddle is perfect for breakfast hash, grilled veggies, or even smash burgers. Switching to charcoal is easy – just slide in the included charcoal trays and light up for that authentic smoky flavor. You can even run both fuels at the same time to maximize cooking capacity for big parties. The lid thermometer is reasonably accurate for monitoring chamber temps during low-and-slow cooks, though it’s no substitute for a dedicated probe.

Cleanup is straightforward. The grates and griddle are removable, and the grease tray slides out from the front, channeling drippings into a large removable cup. A small hole in the griddle drains grease directly into the tray, which helps minimize flare-ups. The side tables come with tool hooks and a bottle opener, and the propane tank hooks onto a dedicated holder on the side for a tidy setup. The two large wheels with locks let you roll the grill around your patio or campsite and lock it in place.

Assembly is doable in about an hour with basic tools – reviewers noted the manual is clear and the parts are well packed. Some units may require minor adjustments to align doors or handles, but overall it’s not a headache. The biggest limitation is the short 3-month warranty, which suggests you should inspect everything on arrival and keep an eye on rust or burner corrosion over time. But at this price point, the feature set is hard to beat.

Who should buy this? Backyard grillers who want the flexibility of both gas and charcoal without owning two separate grills. Campers and RV owners who need a portable-yet-robust cooking solution for tailgates or campsite feasts. And any outdoor entertainer who wants to fire up quick weeknight dinners or slow-cook a brisket for weekend guests. It’s a practical, no-nonsense grill that does a lot for the money, with solid heat output and cooking versatility that most single-fuel grills can’t match.

The 40,000 BTU output from four main burners provides plenty of power for high-heat searing and quick temperature recovery when you add cold food. In practice, the grill heats evenly across the 339 sq in main area, with minimal hot spots. The side burner reaches 9,000 BTU – enough to boil water for sides or keep a sauce warm. The built-in thermometer on the lid gives you a rough chamber temp, but for precise low-and-slow smoking you’ll want an external probe. The griddle plate heats uniformly and the small grease hole works well to minimize pooling. Overall, this grill performs admirably for both fast grilling and gentle charcoal cooking.

This grill’s standout feature is the ability to run propane or charcoal – or both simultaneously. The charcoal trays sit inside the firebox, allowing you to add lump charcoal or briquettes for authentic smoke flavor while using the gas burners for direct heat or to light the coals. You can start with gas for convenience and finish over charcoal for flavor, or use the gas side for quick-cooking items while letting charcoal burn low for ribs. The switch between fuel types is tool-free and takes just seconds. This flexibility makes it ideal for campers who might have limited fuel choices, or backyard grillers who want to experiment without buying a separate smoker.

The Sophia & William Dual Fuel Grill Combo is a versatile outdoor cooker that combines a propane gas side with a charcoal side, plus a handy side burner. It's designed for backyard grillers, tailgaters, and campers who want the flexibility to sear steaks quickly on gas or slow-smoke ribs over charcoal. With 690 square inches of total cooking space, it can handle a crowd at your next patio party or campsite gathering.

Performance wise, the gas side heats up fast and delivers even heat across the porcelain-enameled cast iron grates. The three stainless steel burners produce 28,650 BTU, enough for a good sear on burgers and chicken. The charcoal side takes a bit longer to get going, but the adjustable tray and crank handle let you dial in the temperature for low-and-slow cooking or high heat. The side burner is useful for simmering BBQ sauce or sauteing onions while the main grates do the heavy lifting. The electronic ignition fires up reliably, and the flame control knobs give you good range for different cooking styles.

Build quality is a mixed bag. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are durable and hold heat well, which helps with consistent cooking and nice grill marks. The alloy steel frame feels solid enough, but some panels are thin and the welding isn't always pretty up close. The locking casters make it easy to move around the patio or into the garage, and the side shelves offer decent prep space with hooks for tools. That said, a few users have noted that the propane tank compartment can be a tight fit for some standard tanks, and the wheel mounts may bend over time if the grill is moved often on rough ground.

Cleanup is fairly straightforward thanks to the removable ash tray on the charcoal side and the pull-out grease tray on the gas side. The grease cup clip isn't the most secure, so you'll want to check it regularly. The porcelain enamel on the grates makes scraping off residue easier than bare cast iron. Overall, the maintenance is manageable for a grill in this price range.

Realistic limitations include the overall fit and finish - this isn't a premium grill, so you'll see some rough edges and thinner metal. The charcoal side can be a bit smoky and requires more attention than gas, but that's part of the appeal for BBQ enthusiasts. For tailgating or camping, the grill is portable enough with its wheels, but at 105 pounds it's not a lightweight carry - plan for two people to load it.

In short, the Sophia & William dual fuel grill is a solid choice for budget-minded outdoor cooks who want both gas convenience and charcoal flavor. It works well for weekend BBQs, tailgating, and patio entertaining. If you're okay with some compromises in build quality for the price, this combo grill delivers good cooking performance and versatility.

The Royal Gourmet CC1830S is a charcoal grill and offset smoker combo designed for backyard cooks who want to explore smoking without breaking the bank. With 823 square inches of total cooking space - including a 475 sq in main grate, a 151 sq in warming rack, and a 197 sq in side smoker - it gives you plenty of room to grill burgers, hot dogs, and steaks while smoking ribs or brisket on the side. This setup is ideal for weekend BBQs, tailgating, or camping trips where you want both direct heat and low-and-slow cooking in one unit.

In terms of cooking performance, the adjustable charcoal pan is a standout feature. You can raise or lower the grate to control the distance between coals and food, which helps with searing steaks hot and fast or moving to indirect heat for larger cuts. The built-in thermometer on the lid gives you a good idea of the internal temperature, though some users find it reads a bit off from grate level. The offset smoker attaches firmly and does circulate heat and smoke, but maintaining a steady low temperature (around 225-250°F) requires attention - you'll need to add charcoal and wood chunks regularly, and the side door makes that easy. For a beginner smoker, it's a solid learning tool, but expect some temperature swings until you get the hang of it.

Build quality is decent for the price point. The porcelain-enameled steel grates hold heat well and are simple to clean with a brush. The body is powder-coated alloy steel, which resists rust if you keep it covered and stored out of the elements. Some reviewers note minor heat leakage around the lid, but applying high-temperature gasket tape can seal those gaps. The two wheels make it easy to roll across a patio or lawn, and the bottom shelf holds up to 20 lbs of tools or charcoal. Assembly takes about 1.5-2 hours and is easier with two people, especially when attaching the main body and legs.

Cleanup is straightforward: the ash tray in the main grill is removable, but the side smoker's ash tray doesn't slide out - you'll need to scoop ashes out through the door. The warming rack and grates can be scrubbed with a grill brush. The side shelf and tool hooks keep your spatula and tongs handy, which is nice for busy cooks. One limitation is that the offset smoker isn't as efficient as dedicated smokers; it's better for shorter smokes (2-4 hours) than overnight brisket. Also, the grill has a bit of wobble on uneven ground, so choose a flat spot.

Overall, the Royal Gourmet CC1830S is a fantastic entry-level grill-smoker combo for anyone who wants to try smoking without a big investment. It works well for backyard parties, campsite dinners, and tailgating where you need both grilling and smoking capacity. If you're willing to put in a little effort to seal gaps and manage the fire, you'll get great results - smoky ribs, juicy chicken, and perfectly seared steaks. For the price, it's hard to beat the versatility and cooking area.

The Royal Gourmet CC1830S delivers solid cooking performance for both direct grilling and offset smoking. The main charcoal chamber heats up quickly and can reach high temperatures for searing steaks and burgers. The adjustable charcoal pan is a real plus - you can lower it for indirect cooking or raise it for a direct sear. The porcelain-enameled grates provide good heat retention and even cooking across the surface.

When using the offset smoker, expect a learning curve. It produces a nice smoky flavor for ribs, chicken, and pork shoulder, but maintaining a steady low temperature (225-250°F) requires frequent attention. The side door makes it easy to add charcoal or wood chips without lifting the lid. For best results, use high-quality lump charcoal and wood chunks. Some users recommend adding a high-temp gasket around the main lid to reduce heat loss and improve temperature stability.

Overall, this grill is capable of producing delicious barbecue, especially for beginners. It's not as precise as a high-end smoker, but for the price, the flavor and versatility are impressive.

Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquettes are the backbone of many backyard cookouts, camping trips, and tailgate parties. This 16-pound bag gives you a solid supply of reliable fuel that lights quickly and burns evenly. Whether you are searing steaks on a Weber kettle, smoking chicken on a bullet smoker, or grilling burgers for a crowd, these briquettes deliver consistent heat and that classic smoky flavor that charcoal lovers crave.

These briquettes are best suited for backyard grillers who want dependable performance for weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings. Campers and tailgaters will appreciate the fast lighting time, especially when using a chimney starter. RV owners and patio cooks can also keep a bag on hand for portable charcoal grills. If you enjoy low-and-slow cooking, Kingsford holds a steady temperature for several hours, though you may need to add more briquettes for longer smokes.

In real-world use, the Sure Fire Grooves technology makes lighting a breeze. You can have a glowing bed of coals ready in about 15 minutes. The briquettes burn hot, giving you a good sear on meats, and they maintain heat well for indirect cooking. The flavor is clean and natural, with no chemical off-notes. Ash production is moderate, so you will need to clean out the grill after each use, but that is typical for charcoal.

Build quality is consistent across bags. The briquettes are uniform in size, which helps with even ignition and airflow. The bag itself is sturdy enough for storage, but you may want to transfer the charcoal to a dry container if you live in a humid area. There are no moving parts or electronics to worry about, just pure charcoal that does its job.

One realistic limitation is that these briquettes are not designed for extremely long cooks like overnight brisket smokes. For that, you might prefer lump charcoal or a larger bag. Also, while they light fast, using a chimney starter is highly recommended to avoid lighter fluid taste. Some users also note that the briquettes can produce a bit more ash than premium lump charcoals.

Overall, Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquettes are a solid, trustworthy choice for everyday grilling and outdoor cooking. They offer a great balance of speed, heat, and flavor at a reasonable price. If you are a backyard BBQ enthusiast, camper, or tailgater looking for a reliable fuel source, this 16-pound bag is a smart buy.

If you're serious about charcoal grilling and need a rig that can handle everything from quick weeknight burgers to all-day smoked briskets, the Sophia & William Extra Large Charcoal BBQ Grill deserves a close look. This is a full-size, dual-zone charcoal grill built for backyard cooks, BBQ enthusiasts, and anyone who loves hosting outdoor gatherings. With 794 square inches of cooking space, it's designed to feed 10 to 15 people without breaking a sweat.

The standout feature here is the dual adjustable charcoal trays. Each tray can be raised or lowered independently, so you can set up a hot zone for searing steaks and a cooler zone for slow-cooking ribs or chicken. This kind of heat control is usually found on much more expensive grills, and it makes a real difference in the quality of your cook. You get that authentic smoky flavor with the flexibility to manage flare-ups and temperature shifts without constantly moving coals around.

Build quality is solid for the price point. The grill body is powder-coated alloy steel, which holds up well against rust and weather when covered. The porcelain-enameled iron cooking grates are a nice touch — they retain heat beautifully and are much easier to clean than plain steel grates. The lid-mounted thermometer gives you a good read on internal temps, and the two side dampers plus adjustable smoke stack let you fine-tune airflow for low-and-slow smoking or high-heat grilling.

Setup does require some assembly, but the instructions are clear and all hardware is included. You'll need a couple of hours and maybe a second pair of hands for the heavier parts. Once assembled, the grill feels stable and rolls smoothly on its wheels, though at 88 pounds it's not something you'll want to move around frequently. The foldable side tables are handy for holding plates, sauces, or tools, and the S-hooks keep your spatula and tongs within easy reach.

Cleanup is manageable thanks to the removable ash pan and the porcelain grates, which scrub clean without too much effort. The charcoal access door with cool-touch handles lets you add more coals or adjust the fire without lifting the entire cooking grate, which is a real time-saver during long cooks. One limitation is the 1-year warranty — it's decent but not industry-leading, so take care of the grill and keep it covered when not in use.

Overall, the Sophia & William charcoal grill is a strong choice for backyard entertainers and BBQ hobbyists who want a versatile, large-capacity cooker without spending a fortune. It handles everything from fast grilling to low-and-slow smoking with confidence, and the dual-zone setup gives you the control you need to cook multiple dishes at once. If you've got the space and love cooking with charcoal, this grill will serve you well for many weekends to come.

The Sophia & William Dual Fuel Grill Combo is a versatile outdoor cooker that combines a propane gas side with a charcoal side, plus a handy side burner. It's designed for backyard grillers, tailgaters, and campers who want the flexibility to sear steaks quickly on gas or slow-smoke ribs over charcoal. With 690 square inches of total cooking space, it can handle a crowd at your next patio party or campsite gathering.

Performance wise, the gas side heats up fast and delivers even heat across the porcelain-enameled cast iron grates. The three stainless steel burners produce 28,650 BTU, enough for a good sear on burgers and chicken. The charcoal side takes a bit longer to get going, but the adjustable tray and crank handle let you dial in the temperature for low-and-slow cooking or high heat. The side burner is useful for simmering BBQ sauce or sauteing onions while the main grates do the heavy lifting. The electronic ignition fires up reliably, and the flame control knobs give you good range for different cooking styles.

Build quality is a mixed bag. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are durable and hold heat well, which helps with consistent cooking and nice grill marks. The alloy steel frame feels solid enough, but some panels are thin and the welding isn't always pretty up close. The locking casters make it easy to move around the patio or into the garage, and the side shelves offer decent prep space with hooks for tools. That said, a few users have noted that the propane tank compartment can be a tight fit for some standard tanks, and the wheel mounts may bend over time if the grill is moved often on rough ground.

Cleanup is fairly straightforward thanks to the removable ash tray on the charcoal side and the pull-out grease tray on the gas side. The grease cup clip isn't the most secure, so you'll want to check it regularly. The porcelain enamel on the grates makes scraping off residue easier than bare cast iron. Overall, the maintenance is manageable for a grill in this price range.

Realistic limitations include the overall fit and finish - this isn't a premium grill, so you'll see some rough edges and thinner metal. The charcoal side can be a bit smoky and requires more attention than gas, but that's part of the appeal for BBQ enthusiasts. For tailgating or camping, the grill is portable enough with its wheels, but at 105 pounds it's not a lightweight carry - plan for two people to load it.

In short, the Sophia & William dual fuel grill is a solid choice for budget-minded outdoor cooks who want both gas convenience and charcoal flavor. It works well for weekend BBQs, tailgating, and patio entertaining. If you're okay with some compromises in build quality for the price, this combo grill delivers good cooking performance and versatility.

The Sophia & William Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker is a versatile outdoor cooking rig that blends grilling and smoking in one affordable package. With a total of 512 square inches of cooking space, it's built for backyard grillers, BBQ enthusiasts, and anyone who loves hosting weekend cookouts. The main barrel offers 366 square inches of porcelain-enameled iron grates, while the offset smoker adds 146 inches for low-and-slow cooking or holding side dishes.

In real-world use, this combo performs well for both fast grilling and long smokes. The lid-mounted thermometer gives you a clear read of the temp, and the adjustable dampers on the firebox and smoke stack let you dial in airflow. Getting to 225-250 F for brisket or ribs is straightforward, though it takes some practice to maintain steady temps over hours. The side charcoal access door is a thoughtful feature, letting you add coals without lifting the lid and losing all that precious heat.

Build quality is solid for the price point. The heavy-duty steel body feels sturdy, and the one-piece smoker chamber is a real advantage over cheaper models that have welded seams. Porcelain-enameled grates are a nice upgrade, resisting rust and making cleanup much easier than bare steel. The grease drips are channeled into a removable cup, which helps keep the ash and mess contained. Two metal wheels make it reasonably easy to roll across a patio or lawn, though at 66 pounds you won't want to carry it far.

Some users have reported minor issues out of the box, like a lid that doesn't seal perfectly due to shipping damage. That can cause a thin wisp of smoke to escape, but most find it doesn't ruin the cook. Assembly is a bit of a puzzle since the instructions are purely diagram-based, so set aside an hour or so and pay close attention to which legs go where. A handful of extra screws and washers would have been welcome, but nothing is missing if you're careful.

Cleanup is manageable thanks to the removable ash pan and grease cup. After a long smoke, you can dump the ash and wipe down the grates without too much hassle. The steel body does need a cover (sold separately) if left outside in wet weather, otherwise rust can develop over time. Covering it when not in use will extend its life considerably.

Overall, the Sophia & William charcoal grill and offset smoker combo is a strong contender for backyard cooks who want to experiment with smoking without dropping serious cash on a dedicated smoker. It's best for weekend BBQ parties, camping trips where you have a vehicle to transport it, or tailgating setups that need a bit more cooking power. If you're a serious pitmaster or need something ultra-portable, look elsewhere, but for casual to intermediate outdoor cooking, this is a reliable workhorse.