Best Char-Griller Grills: 6 Models Compared

Quick picks

Our 6 picks

1 Best overall

Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill

Best for: portable charcoal grilling with large capacity

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Cooking Area

320 Sq. In.

Form Factor

Portable

Size

Large

Dimensions

22 × 39 × 40 inches

Weight

39.6 pounds

View on Amazon: Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill Affiliate link

The Char-Griller E1816 is a portable charcoal grill designed for both home and travel use. It offers a 320 square inch cooking area with cast iron grates for even heating. The unit measures 39 inches wide and weighs 39.6 pounds. Features include locking legs, wheels, and an integrated handle for easy transport. A stainless steel thermometer helps you monitor temperatures. This model suits those who need a large, movable charcoal grill.

Pros

• 320 square inch cooking area for ample space
• Cast iron cooking grates for even heat distribution
• Integrated handle and two wheels for portability
• Stainless steel thermometer for temperature monitoring

Cons

• Charcoal fuel requires manual lighting and ash cleanup
• No included propane or gas connection for instant ignition
• Heavy at 39.6 pounds for frequent moving

Good fit if

• You need a large charcoal grill that can be moved easily
• You prefer the flavor of charcoal over gas
• You want a grill with a built-in thermometer

Skip if

• You require instant ignition with a push button
• You need a compact grill for small balconies
• You prefer gas grills for faster cleanup

Verdict: Char-Griller King-Griller Gambler Portable Grill provides a spacious 320 square inch cooking surface in a portable package. It is ideal for users who value charcoal flavor and need to transport their grill to different locations.

2 Also great

Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill

Best for: Versatile outdoor cooking for families

Fuel Type

Propane gas and charcoal

Cooking Area

870 sq. in.

Heat Output

24,000 BTU

Burner Count

2

Compatible Appliance

Smoker

Dimensions

53.9 × 26.2 × 46.9 inches

View on Amazon: Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill Affiliate link

This Char-Griller model combines propane gas and charcoal in one unit. It offers 870 square inches of total cooking space and two stainless steel burners with 24,000 BTU output. The design includes a side burner, dual temperature gauges, and an EasyDump ash pan. It suits you if you want versatile cooking options without needing two separate appliances. The electronic ignition simplifies startup.

Pros

• 870 square inches of total cooking area
• Dual propane and charcoal fuel options
• 24,000 BTU heat output from two burners
• EasyDump ash pan for simple cleaning

Cons

• Heavier build at 116 pounds
• Larger footprint requires more deck space
• No digital temperature display included

Good fit if

• You want to switch between charcoal and gas easily
• You need ample space for large gatherings
• You prefer precise heat zoning with separate burners

Skip if

• You have limited outdoor space for a large unit
• You only cook small meals for one or two people
• You prefer a lightweight grill for easy transport

Verdict: Char-Griller Dual-Fuel 870 sq in Grill is a solid choice for families who want the flavor of charcoal with the convenience of gas. It fits households that cook frequently and need room for big cuts of meat.

3 Best budget

Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill

Best for: Small patios and decks

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Cooking Area

250 square inches

Primary Material

Heavy-duty steel

Features

Cast Iron Grates

Compatible Appliance

Smoker

Dimensions

31 × 21 × 44 inches

View on Amazon: Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill Affiliate link

The Char-Griller Patio Pro is a barrel-style charcoal grill designed for small outdoor spaces. It offers 250 square inches of cooking area with heavy-duty steel construction. Thick cast iron grates provide durable heat retention. The unit includes a side air vent for temperature control and a side shelf for workspace. Weighing 50 pounds, it features wheels for mobility and an easy-dump ash pan for maintenance.

Pros

• 250 square inch total cooking area
• Thick cast iron cooking grates
• Heavy-duty steel construction
• Side air vent for temperature control
• Wheels for easy mobility

Cons

• Limited 250 square inch cooking capacity
• Charcoal fuel requires manual lighting and ash management
• No included thermometer for temperature monitoring

Good fit if

• You have limited patio or deck space
• You prefer the flavor of charcoal cooking
• You want a grill with cast iron grates

Skip if

• You need large capacity for big gatherings
• You prefer the convenience of gas fuel
• You require precise temperature control without manual adjustment

Verdict: Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill is a compact, durable option for small outdoor areas. It suits individuals or couples who value charcoal flavor and easy mobility in a space-saving design.

4 Also great

Char-Griller Traditional Charcoal Grill

Best for: Large family gatherings and outdoor parties

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Cooking Area

790 square inches

Primary Material

heavy-duty steel

Dimensions

53.5 × 27.6 × 51.2 inches

Weight

88.6 pounds

View on Amazon: Char-Griller Traditional Charcoal Grill Affiliate link

The Char-Griller E2197 Traditional Charcoal Grill offers 790 square inches of cooking space. It is built from heavy-duty steel and features porcelain-coated cast iron grates. Dual damper controls help you manage heat and smoke. The unit includes an EasyDump Ash Pan for quick cleanup. This model suits you if you need a large, durable charcoal grill for family gatherings or outdoor parties.

Pros

• 790 square inches of total cooking space
• Porcelain-coated cast iron grates for even heat
• Dual damper controls for precise airflow management
• EasyDump Ash Pan for quick disposal
• Heavy-duty steel construction for durability

Cons

• Weighs 88.6 pounds, making it difficult to move
• No side shelves for extra prep space
• No thermometer included for temperature monitoring

Good fit if

• You need a large cooking area for big meals
• You want durable heavy-duty steel construction
• You prefer precise heat control with dual dampers

Skip if

• You need a portable grill for camping
• You want gas convenience instead of charcoal
• You have limited storage space for large units

Verdict: Char-Griller E2197 Traditional Charcoal Grill provides ample space and durable build for serious backyard cooks. It fits you well if you prioritize capacity and control over portability.

5 Best side shelf

Char-Griller King-Griller Gambler Charcoal Grill

Best for: Small patios needing a side shelf

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Cooking Area

315 sq. in.

Primary Material

Steel

Features

Side Shelf, Cast Iron Grates

Compatible Appliance

Smoker

Dimensions

9.45 × 13.8 × 16.1 inches

View on Amazon: Char-Griller King-Griller Gambler Charcoal Grill Affiliate link

The Char-Griller Gambler is a charcoal barrel grill with 315 square inches of cooking space. It features cast iron grates and a side shelf workstation with tool hooks. The unit weighs 45 pounds and includes a heat gauge and bottom storage rack. This model suits small decks or patios where a side shelf provides useful prep space. It is a medium-sized option for backyard grilling.

Pros

• 315 square inch total grilling area
• Side shelf workstation with BBQ tool storage hooks
• Thick cast iron grill grates
• Includes heat gauge and bottom storage rack

Cons

• 315 square inch cooking area is smaller than larger models
• 45 pound weight makes it less portable than lighter units
• No mention of digital temperature controls

Good fit if

• You need a side shelf for prep space
• You prefer cast iron grates for heat retention
• You have a small deck or patio

Skip if

• You require a large cooking surface for big gatherings
• You want a lightweight grill for easy transport
• You prefer gas or pellet fuel over charcoal

Verdict: Char-Griller Gambler Side Shelf Grill offers a dedicated side shelf and cast iron grates for focused charcoal cooking. It fits buyers who value prep space on a compact barrel grill.

6 Best premium

Char-Griller Competition Pro Offset Smoker

Best for: Texas-style offset smoking

Cooking Area

1012 sq. in.

Primary Material

Heavy Duty Steel

Features

Offset Smoker

Style

Barrel

Size

Large

Dimensions

66 × 33 × 52 inches

View on Amazon: Char-Griller Competition Pro Offset Smoker Affiliate link

This Char-Griller Competition Pro combines a 719-square-inch primary cooking area with a 293-square-inch side fire box for a total of 1012 square inches. The heavy-duty steel construction and powder coating finish provide durable heat retention. Its 66-inch length and 52-inch height accommodate large cuts. You will appreciate the expanded metal grates for consistent cooking. This setup suits those who want Texas-style offset smoking capabilities in a single unit.

Pros

• 1012 square inches of total cooking area
• Includes side fire box for offset smoking
• Heavy duty steel construction with powder coating
• Premium expanded metal cooking grates

Cons

• 151 pounds makes it difficult to move
• 66 inches wide requires significant outdoor space
• No temperature gauge mentioned in specifications

Good fit if

• You need dedicated offset smoker functionality
• You have space for a large grill
• You cook large cuts of meat regularly

Skip if

• You have limited patio space
• You need a portable grill
• You prefer lightweight equipment

Verdict: Char-Griller Competition Pro Barrel Grill offers substantial capacity for serious smokers. You should buy it if you prioritize offset smoking features and have the space for its large footprint.

Specifications side by side

Char-Griller Grill Lineup Overview

Char-Griller designs grills for distinct cooking styles and spaces. The Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill offers a 320 square inch surface in a 39.6 pound package, ideal for transport. For larger needs, the Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill provides 870 square inches of cooking area with versatile fuel options. It weighs 116 pounds and suits families needing capacity.

Compact options include the Patio Pro Charcoal Grill and the King-Griller Gambler Charcoal Grill, both featuring cast iron grates. The Traditional Charcoal Grill and Competition Pro Offset Smoker cater to serious backyard cooks. The offset smoker features a 66 inch length and 151 pound weight. You choose based on whether you prioritize portability, dual-fuel convenience, or dedicated smoking capacity.

Who Char-Griller Suits Best

Char-Griller covers a wide range of sizes, from the 18.6 pound Gambler to the 151 pound Competition Pro Offset Smoker. You can choose charcoal-only models or dual-fuel options that accept propane and charcoal. Shapes vary from compact barrels to large offset smokers. The lineup suits everyone from solo campers to large families hosting gatherings. However, none of these models offer electric ignition or digital temperature controls. If you need smart features or gas-only convenience without charcoal, this brand may not fit your needs.

How to Choose the Right Char-Griller

1. Match Fuel to Your Taste

   Decide between charcoal, propane, or dual-fuel based on flavor preference and convenience. Charcoal-only models like the Patio Pro deliver traditional smoky taste. The Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill lets you switch between propane speed and charcoal depth. If you want consistent heat without managing charcoal, gas is practical. For pure flavor, stick to charcoal. Check the fuel type in the attributes to ensure the grill matches your cooking style and fuel availability.

2. Check Space and Portability

   Measure your outdoor area before buying. The Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill weighs 39.6 pounds and fits in a car, making it ideal for camping or tailgating. The Competition Pro Offset Smoker weighs 151 pounds and requires a permanent spot. Small patios suit the compact Patio Pro. Large backyards can handle the Traditional Charcoal Grill. Consider weight and dimensions to ensure the grill fits your space and transport needs without hassle.

3. Assess Cooking Capacity Needs

   Select a grill size based on how many people you feed. The Dual-Fuel model offers 870 square inches, perfect for large family gatherings. The Gambler Portable provides 320 square inches, suitable for small groups. The Traditional Charcoal Grill offers ample space for serious cooks. Match the cooking surface to your typical meal size. Larger surfaces accommodate big cuts of meat or multiple items at once. Smaller grills are easier to manage for individuals or couples.

4. Look for Essential Features

   Identify features that improve your cooking workflow. The Gambler Side Shelf Grill includes a dedicated side shelf for prep space, which is valuable on small patios. Cast iron grates, found in the Patio Pro and Gambler Side Shelf, retain heat well and sear effectively. Offset smokers like the Competition Pro offer specialized smoking capabilities. Check the attributes list for side shelves, grate materials, and smoker compatibility to match your specific cooking requirements.

5. Consider Material and Durability

   Evaluate build materials for longevity and heat retention. Cast iron grates, featured in the Patio Pro and Gambler Side Shelf, provide excellent searing and durability. The Competition Pro uses a barrel style for traditional offset smoking. Black finishes are common across models for heat absorption. Heavier grills like the Dual-Fuel model at 116 pounds often indicate sturdier construction. Lighter models like the Gambler Portable prioritize mobility. Choose materials that align with your maintenance tolerance and cooking frequency.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best char griller cast iron grills
• char griller char griller patio pro charcoal vs char griller king
• best char griller pellet grills
• best grill pergolas