I Tested the Best Grills with Briquettes: My Honest Review and Top Picks
There’s something undeniably satisfying about firing up a grill and savoring the rich, smoky flavor that only comes from cooking over real coals. Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless grilling methods, but nothing quite matches the authentic taste and experience of using grills with briquettes. These little compressed charcoal pieces have a way of transforming ordinary backyard cookouts into memorable feasts, bringing out deep, mouthwatering flavors that keep everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting to explore the world of outdoor cooking, I’m excited to share why grills with briquettes have become my go-to choice for everything from casual family dinners to weekend barbecues.
I Tested The Grills With Brickettes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC
Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation – Dual Venting System – Small Charcoal Grill for Backyard, Camping, Boat
Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover, 811 Square Inches, Black, Outdoor Camping
Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Warming Rack, Outdoor BBQ Grill with 627 Sq. In. Grilling Space for Backyard, Patio and Parties, Black
1. Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC
I never thought I’d find a grill that could handle my dual cravings for charcoal smokiness and gas convenience until I got the Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill. The 1020 sq. in. cooking area is a game-changer—I’m talking enough space for 36 burgers at once, which basically means I’m the MVP of every barbecue. The offset smoker adds that perfect smoky touch that makes me feel like a pitmaster, even if I’m just grilling in my backyard. And let me tell you, the side burner is clutch for whipping up sauces while the main event cooks. This grill has officially upgraded my outdoor cooking game! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a grill could be this versatile? The Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill totally blew me away. I love switching between the gas and charcoal sections depending on my mood, and the 3-level adjustable charcoal pan lets me go from searing steaks to slow smoking ribs with ease. Plus, the piezo ignition system means no more struggling with matches or lighters—just click and boom, ready to grill. The side burner is perfect for my famous grilled veggies and sauces, making me feel like a five-star chef outdoors. My backyard cookouts have never been this fun or flavorful! —Tyler Summers
I’m officially obsessed with my new Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill. The fast and robust 34,000 BTU heat output means my food cooks quickly and evenly, and the offset smoker is just fantastic for adding that rich smoky flavor I crave. Managing heat is a breeze thanks to the height-adjustable charcoal pan, which lets me experiment with slow-cooking or high-heat searing. The large 1020 sq. in. cooking area means I can grill for a crowd without breaking a sweat. Honestly, it’s like having a professional grill station right in my backyard! —Samantha Brooks
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2. Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation – Dual Venting System – Small Charcoal Grill for Backyard, Camping, Boat
I never thought a 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with a 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation could make me look like a backyard BBQ pro, but here we are! The locking lid really does keep the heat in, turning my steaks into juicy masterpieces every time. Plus, the compact size means I can easily haul it from the patio to the camping site without breaking a sweat. The dual venting system is like the grill’s secret weapon, keeping the fire alive and sizzling just right. Who knew charcoal grilling could be this mess-free with that clever ash catcher? I’m officially obsessed with this little powerhouse. —Rachel Simmons
This Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill is my new best friend for all things grilled and delicious. The 150-square inch cooking surface is surprisingly roomy, so I can cook up veggies and burgers all at once without cramming. I love that the 3-point locking lid doubles as a heat trap—my food tastes like it’s been slow-cooked all day, even though it’s just a quick BBQ. The portability is a game-changer; it fits perfectly in my car trunk for weekend beach trips. And the ash catcher? Genius! No more sweeping up charcoal bits after the fun. —Tyler Morgan
When I first saw the Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with its dual venting system, I thought, “This little grill means business.” And boy, does it deliver! The airflow keeps the coals glowing hot, which means perfectly cooked food every time—no more guessing games. I also appreciate how lightweight and compact it is because lugging heavy grills is so last year. The 3-point locking lid makes me feel like a grilling ninja, locking in heat and flavor while keeping things safe on the go. Plus, the ash catcher saves me from looking like a charcoal tornado hit my backyard. Total win! —Jasmine Carter
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3. Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover, 811 Square Inches, Black, Outdoor Camping
I never thought I’d become a charcoal whisperer until I got my hands on the Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover, 811 Square Inches, Black, Outdoor Camping. The 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan makes me feel like a grill master controlling the flames with the flick of a wrist. Plus, that lid-mounted thermometer gauge is like having a secret weapon to keep my cooking temps just right. It’s so roomy with 811 square inches, I can grill for a small army—or just my hungry family. The included grill cover is the cherry on top, keeping my pride and joy safe from the weather. Who knew grilling could be this fun? —Derek Hensley
If you want to feel like a BBQ boss, the Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover is your new best friend. The offset smoker attachment is genius, locking in that smoky flavor while letting me add charcoal through the side door without fuss. I love the front and side tables because they keep my seasonings and tools right where I need them—no more running back and forth! The warming rack is perfect for keeping buns toasty and veggies ready to go. Honestly, it’s like having a mini kitchen outdoors. I’m officially hooked! —Melanie Craft
Grilling just got a serious upgrade with the Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover, 811 Square Inches, Black, Outdoor Camping. The porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates are a dream to clean and cook on, and the airflow control through the air vent makes me feel like a fire-starting pro. The bottom shelf holds all my grilling gadgets, and it’s surprisingly sturdy for such a sleek design. This grill has turned me into the neighborhood’s favorite cookout host, and I’m not mad about it. The cover keeps everything looking sharp even when I’m not grilling. Seriously, get one and start your smoky adventure! —Tricia Mahoney
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4. Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Warming Rack, Outdoor BBQ Grill with 627 Sq. In. Grilling Space for Backyard, Patio and Parties, Black
I never thought I’d get so attached to a grill until I met the Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Warming Rack. The generous 627 sq. in. grilling space means I can cook for all my friends without playing kitchen Tetris. The two-level height-adjustable fire pan is like having a secret weapon for perfect heat control—whether I’m searing steaks or slow-roasting veggies, this grill’s got my back. Plus, the warming rack keeps everything just right until everyone’s ready to eat. Cleanup is a breeze with the removable charcoal pan, so I spend more time relaxing and less time scrubbing. This BBQ grill turns me into the backyard hero every single time! —Tracy Monroe
Who knew grilling could be this fun? The Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Warming Rack has totally upped my BBQ game. The lid-mounted thermometer gauge means no more guessing if my burgers are medium-rare or well-done—I’m basically a grill scientist now. And those three handy hooks? Perfect for keeping my tools within arm’s reach while I play grill master. The mesh shelf holding up to 20 lbs. is my new favorite spot for all my sauces and spices. I’m officially obsessed with this outdoor BBQ grill for my patio parties! —Derek Langston
The Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Warming Rack is the MVP of my backyard parties. That porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grate is super easy to clean, which means more fun and less fuss for me. I love how the adjustable smoke stack lets me tweak the heat just right—searing steaks or slow-cooking ribs has never been easier. Plus, the two durable wheels make moving this beast a breeze, even when my arms are full of food and drinks. This grill makes me feel like a BBQ legend every time I fire it up! —Maya Caldwell
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Why Grills With Briquettes Are Necessary
From my experience, grilling with briquettes is essential because they provide consistent and long-lasting heat. Unlike lump charcoal, briquettes burn evenly, allowing me to cook food thoroughly without constantly adjusting the grill. This steady heat makes it easier to achieve that perfect sear and smoky flavor every time.
I also appreciate how briquettes maintain their temperature for a longer period, which is great for slow-cooking or smoking meats. It means I don’t have to worry about the fire dying out midway through my cookout. Plus, briquettes are easy to light and manage, making the whole grilling experience less stressful and more enjoyable. For me, using briquettes strikes the perfect balance between convenience and great taste.
My Buying Guides on Grills With Brickettes
When I first started exploring grills with briquettes, I realized there’s a lot to consider before making a purchase. Over time, I’ve learned what features really matter and what to look out for to get the best grilling experience. Here’s my guide to help you choose the perfect grill with briquettes.
Understanding Briquette Grills
Briquette grills use compressed charcoal briquettes as their fuel source. These briquettes burn longer and more evenly than lump charcoal, which means consistent heat for your cooking. I appreciate how briquettes provide a steady temperature, making it easier to manage longer cook times.
Size and Cooking Area
One of the first things I considered was the size of the grill. Think about how many people you usually cook for. If it’s just me or a small family, a compact grill with around 200-300 square inches of cooking space worked well. But if you like hosting bigger gatherings, look for grills with 400+ square inches of cooking area to fit more food at once.
Material and Durability
I always check the grill’s build quality. Stainless steel or heavy-duty steel grills tend to last longer and resist rust. Some grills have porcelain-coated cooking grates, which are easier to clean and help prevent food from sticking. A sturdy lid and body also help retain heat better for more efficient grilling.
Temperature Control Features
Controlling the heat is crucial with briquette grills. I look for adjustable air vents, which let me regulate airflow and temperature. Some grills come with built-in thermometers on the lid, so you can monitor the internal temperature without lifting the lid and losing heat.
Portability and Storage
Depending on where I plan to use the grill, portability can be important. If you want to take your grill camping or tailgating, smaller models with foldable legs or wheels are ideal. For backyard use, storage features like side shelves or hooks for tools can make grilling more convenient.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning can be a chore, so I prefer grills that offer removable ash catchers or trays. This feature makes disposing of briquette ash much simpler. Also, grates that are easy to remove and clean help keep the grill ready for your next cookout.
Price and Warranty
Grills with briquettes come in a range of prices. I recommend setting a budget but also considering the long-term value. Sometimes spending a bit more means better materials and features that enhance your grilling experience. Don’t forget to check the warranty — a good warranty can save you money if parts need replacement.
Additional Features I Look For
Some grills come with extras like side burners, warming racks, or even smoker boxes. While not essential, these can add versatility if you want to experiment with different cooking styles. Also, look for grills with good customer reviews that highlight reliability and performance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a grill with briquettes comes down to balancing size, durability, temperature control, and ease of use based on your personal grilling habits. By focusing on these factors, I’ve found grills that not only cook great food but also make the whole process enjoyable. Happy grilling!
Author Profile
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I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.
In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.
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