Looking Beyond the BIG HORN Santa Maria Argentine Parrilla? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

Key Differences Between Alternatives

Odoland 12-Inch Folding Charcoal Grill and Fire Pit

The Odoland 12-Inch Folding Charcoal Grill and Fire Pit is a compact tool for solo campers. It weighs just 5.25 pounds and measures 11.4 inches wide. This is far smaller than the BIG HORN Santa Maria, which is 40.8 inches wide and 49 inches tall. The Odoland unit fits in a backpack or on a small patio. It lacks the large cooking area and manual elevation system of the BIG HORN. You give up precise heat control and high-volume cooking capacity. This grill is best for backpacking trips or quick solo meals. It includes a carry bag for easy transport. If you need a portable fire pit for camping, this option is practical. It does not replace the BIG HORN for backyard gatherings or authentic Argentine live-fire cooking with adjustable grates.

Electactic 4-Burner Stainless Steel Gas Grill

The Electactic 4-Burner Stainless Steel Gas Grill offers high-output gas cooking. It is 51 inches wide and 43.7 inches tall. This is wider than the BIG HORN Santa Maria, which is 40.8 inches wide. The Electactic grill uses propane or gas instead of lump charcoal or natural hardwood. It provides a stainless steel body for rust resistance. You gain consistent heat and quick ignition but lose the wood-fired flavor and manual grate elevation of the BIG HORN. The Electactic model includes a side burner and thermometer. It is ideal for large families who prioritize speed and durability. It fits backyard cooks who want serious firepower. The BIG HORN is better for those who value authentic smoke profiles and traditional live-fire techniques. This gas grill is a robust alternative for high-volume cooking.

Minxchen 17-Inch Portable Charcoal Grill

The Minxchen 17-Inch Portable Charcoal Grill is a compact solution for small groups. It is designed for portability and quick cleanup. This unit is much smaller than the BIG HORN Santa Maria, which offers a spacious cooking area. The Minxchen grill lacks the manual elevation system and V-shaped grates of the BIG HORN. You give up precise heat control and grease management features. The Minxchen model is best for small group camping and picnic grilling. It fits buyers who prioritize easy transport over high-volume cooking. The BIG HORN is built for backyard gatherings with its reinforced steel construction and lockable wheels. The Minxchen is a lightweight option for occasional use. It does not provide the same level of durability or cooking capacity as the BIG HORN. It is a practical choice for minimalists.

Royal Gourmet CC1830 30-Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill

The Royal Gourmet CC1830 30-Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill offers a side shelf for prep space. It is a barrel-style grill that uses charcoal. This model is narrower than the BIG HORN Santa Maria, which is 40.8 inches wide. The Royal Gourmet grill lacks the manual elevation system and V-shaped grates of the BIG HORN. You give up precise heat control and grease management features. The Royal Gourmet model is best for buyers who value prep space and traditional grilling methods. It fits backyard cooks who want a side shelf. The BIG HORN is better for those who prioritize authentic live-fire cooking and adjustable grate height. The Royal Gourmet grill is a solid charcoal option. It does not offer the same level of heat precision as the BIG HORN. It is a practical choice for traditional grilling.

Kendane 550 sq in Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker

The Kendane 550 sq in Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker offers smoker versatility. It is 41 inches wide and 40 inches tall. This is similar in width to the BIG HORN Santa Maria, which is 40.8 inches wide. The Kendane grill uses charcoal and includes an offset smoker. It lacks the manual elevation system of the BIG HORN. You gain smoker flexibility but lose precise heat control via grate height adjustment. The Kendane model is best for backyard cooks wanting smoker versatility. It fits those who want flexibility without gas complexity. The BIG HORN is better for authentic Argentine live-fire cooking with adjustable grates. The Kendane grill offers ample space and stable construction. It is a heavy-duty option for backyard gatherings. It does not provide the same level of heat precision as the BIG HORN.

Bestfire 63-Inch Charcoal Grill Smoker

The Bestfire 63-Inch Charcoal Grill Smoker is a heavy-duty option for large capacity cooking. It is 41.3 inches wide and 21.7 inches long. This is similar in width to the BIG HORN Santa Maria, which is 40.8 inches wide. The Bestfire grill uses charcoal and includes wheels for mobility. It lacks the manual elevation system of the BIG HORN. You gain organized storage and stable mobility but lose precise heat control via grate height adjustment. The Bestfire model is best for large capacity charcoal cooking with storage. It fits buyers who value organized storage for backyard feasts. The BIG HORN is better for authentic Argentine live-fire cooking with adjustable grates. The Bestfire grill is a robust option for heavy-duty use. It does not provide the same level of heat precision as the BIG HORN.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

BIG HORN Santa Maria Argentine Parrilla Grill

Best for: Authentic Argentine live-fire cooking

Fuel Type

Lump charcoal, natural hardwood

Primary Material

Reinforced steel

Placement

Outdoor

Application

Backyard

Dimensions

17.9 × 40.8 × 49 inches

View on Amazon: BIG HORN Santa Maria Argentine Parrilla Grill Affiliate link

The BIG HORN Santa Maria grill brings Argentine parrilla tradition to your backyard. Its handwheel elevation system lets you adjust the grate height over lump charcoal or hardwood. This provides precise heat control for searing or roasting. The V-shaped grates channel grease away to reduce flare-ups. With a 40.8-inch width and reinforced steel build, it suits serious outdoor cooks who value authentic wood-fired flavor.

Pros

• Handwheel-driven grate height adjustment for precise heat control
• V-shaped grates channel grease to reduce flare-ups
• Supports both lump charcoal and natural hardwood fuel
• Reinforced steel construction for durability and stability

Cons

• No ash management system or ash catcher listed
• Manual height adjustment requires stopping cooking to turn handwheel
• Heavy steel build makes it difficult to move without wheels

Good fit if

• You want authentic Argentine live-fire cooking results
• You prefer adjusting heat by changing grate height
• You cook with natural hardwood or lump charcoal

Skip if

• You need instant temperature control without moving the grate
• You want a portable grill for camping trips
• You prefer gas or pellet convenience

Verdict: BIG HORN Santa Maria Adjustable Grill delivers precise heat control through its manual elevation system. It fits backyard cooks who prioritize authentic wood-fired flavor over convenience.

2 Best camping

Odoland 12-Inch Folding Charcoal Grill and Fire Pit

Best for: Solo camping and backpacking trips

Fuel Type

Wood, charcoal

Form Factor

Portable folding

Primary Material

Iron

Placement

Outdoor

Application

Camping, Backyard

Included Accessories

Carry Bag

View on Amazon: Odoland 12-Inch Folding Charcoal Grill and Fire Pit Affiliate link

The Odoland Camping Campfire Grill is a portable folding charcoal grill designed for backpacking and picnics. It weighs 5.25 pounds and folds to 11.8 inches by 11.8 inches. The unit includes a carry bag and a 304 stainless steel grill rack. You can use it with wood or charcoal. It also functions as a fire pit with a spark screen. This compact size suits small outdoor spaces.

Pros

• Folds to 11.8 x 11.8 inches for compact storage
• Weighs only 5.25 pounds for easy transport
• Includes a carry bag for organization
• Uses 304 stainless steel for the grill rack

Cons

• Small 11.8-inch diameter limits cooking area
• No adjustable height settings for heat control
• Fits only 3-4 skewers at one time

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight option for backpacking
• You want a grill that doubles as a fire pit
• You are cooking for one or two people

Skip if

• You need to cook large cuts of meat
• You prefer gas or propane fuel sources
• You require a large cooking surface for groups

Verdict: Odoland Portable Folding Charcoal Grill is a compact, lightweight tool for solo campers. It fits backpacks and small patios but lacks space for family meals.

3 Best premium

Electactic 4-Burner Stainless Steel Gas Grill

Best for: High-output stainless steel grilling for large families

Fuel Type

Propane

Heat Output

42,000 BTU

Burner Count

4

Primary Material

Stainless steel

Temperature Range

0 to 1000°F

Placement

Outdoor

View on Amazon: Electactic 4-Burner Stainless Steel Gas Grill Affiliate link

This Electactic gas grill features four main burners totaling 42,000 BTU and a 10,000 BTU side burner. It is constructed entirely from stainless steel, including the double-wall lid and structural panels. The unit measures 51 inches wide and includes a built-in thermometer and rear-sloping grease tray. It suits you if you want a durable, high-output grill for large gatherings that resists rust and weather.

Pros

• 42,000 BTU total output from four 8,000 BTU burners
• Entirely stainless steel construction with no painted surfaces
• Includes a 10,000 BTU side burner for extra cooking space
• Built-in thermometer reads up to 1,000°F
• Rear-sloping grease tray with removable drip cup for easy cleanup

Cons

• 51-inch width requires significant counter or patio space
• No digital temperature controls or smart connectivity
• Heavy stainless steel build may be difficult to move frequently

Good fit if

• You need high heat output for searing large cuts of meat
• You want a grill that resists rust and weather damage
• You have ample outdoor space for a wide appliance

Skip if

• You have limited patio or deck space
• You prefer portable grills for camping or tailgating
• You want a charcoal or wood-fired flavor profile

Verdict: Electactic 4-Burner Stainless Steel Gas Grill delivers serious firepower and durability for serious backyard cooks. It fits you if you prioritize rust-resistant materials and high BTU output over compact portability.

4 Best budget

Minxchen 17-Inch Portable Charcoal Grill

Best for: small group camping and picnic grilling

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Form Factor

Tabletop

Primary Material

Stainless steel

Placement

Outdoor

Application

Backyard

Dimensions

1.97 × 1.97 × 1.97 inches

View on Amazon: Minxchen 17-Inch Portable Charcoal Grill Affiliate link

The Minxchen Portable Charcoal Grill is a foldable tabletop unit designed for small outdoor cooking tasks. It features a 17.3 by 11.4 inch stainless steel cooking surface and five side vents for airflow control. The unit requires no assembly and collapses for storage. It is best suited for camping, picnics, or RV trips where space is limited. You get a compact, durable grill that fits on most tables.

Pros

• Foldable design requires no assembly
• 17.3 by 11.4 inch stainless steel cooking area
• Five side vents for heat regulation
• Rust-resistant stainless steel construction

Cons

• Small 17.3 by 11.4 inch cooking surface limits batch size
• Tabletop form factor requires a stable surface
• Charcoal fuel requires lighting and ash management

Good fit if

• You need a grill for camping or picnics
• You have limited storage space for outdoor gear
• You primarily cook for one or two people

Skip if

• You need to cook large meals for a crowd
• You prefer gas or electric convenience
• You want a permanent backyard installation

Verdict: The Minxchen Portable Charcoal Grill offers a compact, no-assembly solution for small groups. It fits buyers who prioritize portability and quick cleanup over high-volume cooking.

5 Best side shelf

Royal Gourmet CC1830 30-Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill

Best for: side shelf space

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Cooking Area

627 sq. in.

Placement

Outdoor

Application

Backyard

Features

Side Shelf

Style

Barrel

View on Amazon: Royal Gourmet CC1830 30-Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill Affiliate link

The Royal Gourmet CC1830 is a 30-inch barrel charcoal grill with 627 square inches of cooking area. It features a side shelf for prep space and a lid-mounted thermometer. The 2-level height-adjustable fire pan holds up to 6 pounds of coal. This setup suits backyard use. The 16-pound weight makes it manageable for patio placement.

Pros

• 627 square inches of total cooking space
• Side shelf for food preparation
• Lid-mounted thermometer for heat monitoring
• 2-level adjustable fire pan

Cons

• Charcoal fuel requires manual lighting
• Limited to one height setting
• No digital temperature controls

Good fit if

• You need extra side shelf space
• You prefer charcoal flavor
• You want a compact barrel design

Skip if

• You require gas convenience
• You need digital temperature readouts
• You want multiple height adjustments

Verdict: Royal Gourmet CC1830 Barrel Grill offers solid charcoal cooking with a side shelf. It fits buyers who value prep space and traditional grilling methods.

6 Best offset smoker

Kendane 550 sq in Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker

Best for: backyard cooks wanting smoker versatility

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Cooking Area

550 sq. in.

Placement

Outdoor

Application

Backyard

Features

Offset Smoker

Style

Barrel

View on Amazon: Kendane 550 sq in Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker Affiliate link

This barrel-style charcoal grill offers 550 square inches of cooking space. It includes an offset smoker firebox for indirect heat cooking. The unit measures 41 inches wide and weighs 36 pounds. You get a height-adjustable charcoal pan and a lid thermometer for heat control. The design includes two wheels for mobility and front tables for prep space. It suits backyard cooks who want smoker versatility.

Pros

• 550 square inch porcelain-enameled steel cooking area
• Offset smoker firebox for indirect heat
• 4-level height-adjustable charcoal pan
• Lid-mounted thermometer for temperature monitoring
• Two wheels and side handle for mobility

Cons

• 36-pound weight makes it less portable than folding models
• Manual heat control requires monitoring airflow
• No side burner included for extra cooking capacity

Good fit if

• You want an offset smoker feature in a charcoal grill
• You need a large 550 square inch cooking surface
• You prefer a stable barrel design for backyard use

Skip if

• You need a gas grill for quick ignition
• You require a portable folding grill for camping
• You want a built-in side burner for extra space

Verdict: Kendane Barrel Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker fits those who want smoker flexibility without gas complexity. It offers ample space and stable construction for backyard gatherings.

7 Best wheels

Bestfire 63-Inch Charcoal Grill Smoker

Best for: large capacity charcoal cooking with storage

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Form Factor

Cabinet-Style

Placement

Outdoor

Features

Wheels

Compatible Appliance

Smoker

Dimensions

21.7 × 41.3 × 13.8 inches

View on Amazon: Bestfire 63-Inch Charcoal Grill Smoker Affiliate link

This Bestfire charcoal grill offers a 63-inch cooking surface designed for large gatherings. It features dual independent lifting charcoal trays for precise heat control, allowing you to switch between searing and smoking. The unit includes a cabinet-style storage station with double doors and two foldable side tables. Four locking casters provide mobility, making it a stable choice for outdoor cooking.

Pros

• Dual independent lifting charcoal trays for precise heat adjustment
• 63-inch oversized cooking surface for large capacity
• Cabinet-style storage with double doors and foldable side tables
• Four locking casters for easy mobility and stability

Cons

• Weighs 79.4 pounds, making it heavy to move
• Manual crank handles require physical effort to adjust heat
• No digital temperature monitoring or smart features listed

Good fit if

• You need a large cooking surface for groups over 15 people
• You want dedicated storage for charcoal and tools
• You prefer precise manual heat control for smoking

Skip if

• You require digital temperature controls or app connectivity
• You need a lightweight grill for easy transport
• You prefer gas or pellet fuel over charcoal

Verdict: Bestfire 63" Charcoal Grill & Smoker is a heavy-duty option for those who prioritize cooking space and manual heat precision. It suits buyers who value organized storage and stable mobility for backyard feasts.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• big horn santa maria argentine parrilla alternatives
• big horn 14 inch electric countertop pizza alternatives