Char-Griller King-Griller Gambler Charcoal Grill vs Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill: Spec Comparison
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
This comparison looks at the char griller e1816 king griller gambler portable vs char griller king. Both are barrel-style charcoal grills from Char-Griller. They share cast iron grates and tool storage hooks. The main difference is portability. The Gambler Portable uses a folding design with wheels for easy transport. The King-Griller Gambler is a larger, stationary unit with a side shelf and smoker compatibility. You choose based on whether you need mobility or a fixed cooking station.
Key differences
| Aspect | Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill | Char-Griller King-Griller Gambler Charcoal Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Portable, folding construction | Stationary, heavy-duty steel |
| Cooking Area | 320 Sq. In. | 315 sq. in. |
| Dimensions | 22”L x 39”W x 40”H | 24”L x 35”W x 41”H |
| Weight | 39.6 pounds | 18.6 pounds |
| Features | Integrated handle, locking leg | Side shelf workstation, smoker compatible |
| Material | not listed | Steel, Cast Iron |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill if
- You need to transport the grill to campsites or tailgates.
- You prefer a locking lid and folding legs for compact storage.
- You want a slightly larger cooking surface at 320 square inches.
Choose Char-Griller King-Griller Gambler Charcoal Grill if
- You want a dedicated outdoor cooking station with a side shelf.
- You are interested in smoking capabilities with damper control.
- You prefer a lighter unit that is easier to move short distances.
Verdict: The Gambler Portable is the better choice if you prioritize mobility and compact storage for outdoor adventures. The King-Griller Gambler suits those who want a fixed backyard setup with extra workspace and smoking options. Select the portable version for travel, and the stationary model for a permanent patio or deck.
Portability and Build Comparison
Portability Design
The Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill (Product A) is built for movement. It features a folding construction, a locking leg, and an integrated handle. Two wheels provide maximum portability for taking the grill on the go. The Char-Griller King-Griller Gambler Charcoal Grill (Product B) sits on wheels for easy mobility but lacks the folding mechanism. It is designed as a stationary unit for small decks, backyards, or patios. If you need to pack up and move the grill frequently, the folding design of Product A is the practical choice. Product B is better for a fixed location.
Cooking Area
Product A offers a large 320 square inch cooking area. This provides slightly more space for your food than Product B. Product B provides a total grilling area of 315 square inches. The difference is minimal, but Product A gives you five extra square inches. Both grills use cast iron cooking grates for even heating. This means you get premium flavor and consistent heat distribution on both models. For most home cooks, the slight size difference will not impact daily use. However, if you are grilling larger batches, the extra space in Product A is a small advantage.
Dimensions and Footprint
Product A measures 22 inches in length, 39 inches in width, and 40 inches in height. It has a wider footprint. Product B measures 24 inches in length, 35 inches in width, and 41 inches in height. It is taller but narrower. Product A is also shorter by one inch. The width difference is significant. Product B might fit better in narrow spaces between walls or fences. Product A requires more lateral space. You should measure your outdoor area carefully. The depth and height are similar, but the width variation affects how the grill fits in your specific patio or deck layout.
Weight
Product A weighs 39.6 pounds according to its specifications, though the features section lists 45 pounds. Product B weighs 18.6 pounds according to its specifications, though the features section lists 45 pounds. There is a discrepancy in the provided data. If we trust the specs, Product B is significantly lighter and easier to move if needed. If we trust the features, both weigh 45 pounds. Assuming the spec sheet is accurate for the base unit, Product B is the lighter option. This makes it easier to handle during assembly or relocation. The weight difference is substantial if the spec data is correct.
Material and Build
Both grills feature heavy-duty steel construction with a powder coating finish for durability. Product B explicitly lists steel as the primary material. Both models include thick cast iron grill grates. Product A highlights a stainless steel thermometer for monitoring temperature. Product B includes a heat gauge. Both offer side shelf workstations with BBQ tool storage hooks. The build quality appears similar in terms of core materials. The powder coating on both helps resist rust and weather. You get a sturdy barrel-style design in either case. The choice depends more on the specific features like the thermometer type rather than the base material.
Choose Your Char-Griller Gambler Model
Campers needing easy transport
The Gambler Portable model features a folding construction with a locking leg and integrated handle. Two wheels provide maximum portability, allowing you to move it easily. This design supports grilling at home and on the go, making it ideal for outdoor adventures where space and weight matter.
Backyard cooks wanting stability
The King-Griller Gambler offers a stable setup with a side shelf workstation and bottom storage rack. It includes side air vents for smoke control and a heat gauge. This model is designed for small decks or patios, providing a dedicated grilling station with heavy-duty steel construction for consistent performance.
Users preferring larger cooking space
The Gambler Portable provides a 320 square inch cooking area, slightly larger than the King-Griller's 315 square inches. Both use thick cast iron grates for even heating. If you need maximum surface area for larger batches of food, the Portable model offers the extra room while maintaining charcoal flavor.
Smokers seeking temperature control
The King-Griller Gambler includes a damper smoke control feature and side air vents. These specs allow you to manage airflow and temperature more precisely. Combined with the included heat gauge, this model supports smoking techniques better than the Portable version, which lacks explicit smoke control mechanisms in its listed features.
The products compared
Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill
Best for: portable charcoal grilling on the go
- 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
This portable charcoal grill offers a 320 square inch cooking area with cast iron grates. It measures 39 inches wide and weighs 39.6 pounds. The design includes folding legs, locking mechanisms, and two wheels for transport. A stainless steel thermometer helps you monitor heat levels. It is a practical option for outdoor cooking where mobility matters.
Pros
- 320 square inch cooking area
- Cast iron cooking grates
- Integrated handle and two wheels
- Stainless steel thermometer
- Folding construction with locking legs
Cons
- No digital temperature controls
- Requires charcoal fuel only
- Manual assembly required
Good fit if
- You need a grill for tailgating or camping
- You prefer traditional charcoal flavor
- You want a compact unit for storage
Skip if
- You require gas or electric ignition
- You need a large family-sized grill
- You want smart connectivity features
Verdict: Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill fits buyers who prioritize portability and classic charcoal cooking over modern conveniences. Its wheeled design and folding frame make it ideal for moving between home and outdoor events.
Char-Griller King-Griller Gambler Charcoal Grill
Best for: Small patio charcoal grilling with storage
- 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
This barrel-style charcoal grill offers 315 square inches of cooking space. It features thick cast iron grates and heavy-duty steel construction. The unit includes a side shelf, bottom storage rack, and wheels for mobility. A heat gauge and side air vents help you manage smoke and temperature. It is designed for small decks, backyards, and patios.
Pros
- 315 square inch total grilling area
- Thick cast iron grill grates
- Side shelf workstation with tool hooks
- Bottom storage rack for accessories
- Wheels for easy mobility
Cons
- Limited to charcoal fuel only
- No temperature probe included
- Assembly required before first use
Good fit if
- You want a durable barrel grill for small spaces
- You prefer cast iron grates for searing
- You need built-in storage and a side shelf
Skip if
- You need gas or pellet ignition
- You require a large cooking surface over 400 square inches
- You want a portable unit that fits in a car trunk
Verdict: Char-Griller King-Griller Gambler provides a solid charcoal grilling experience with its cast iron grates and 315 square inch area. It fits well on patios where you value storage and mobility over compact portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill | Char-Griller King-Griller Gambler Charcoal Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Charcoal | Charcoal |
| Cooking Area | 320 Sq. In. | 315 sq. in. |
| Primary Material | not stated | Steel |
| Form Factor | Portable | not stated |
| Material | not stated | Cast Iron |
| Features | not stated | Side Shelf, Cast Iron Grates |
| Compatible Appliance | not stated | Smoker |
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Dimensions | 22 × 39 × 40 inches | 9.45 × 13.8 × 16.1 inches |
| Weight | 39.6 pounds | 18.6 pounds |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | E1816 | E1416 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between the Char-Griller Gambler Portable and the King-Griller Gambler?
The primary difference is portability and intended use. The Gambler Portable (E1816) features a folding frame and wheels for easy transport to outdoor events. The King-Griller Gambler (E1416) is designed for small patio use with a focus on storage and stability rather than frequent movement.
Which Char-Griller Gambler model is best for camping or tailgating?
The Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill is the better choice for on-the-go cooking. Its portable form factor includes a folding design and an integrated handle. This setup allows you to move the grill easily between home and outdoor events without needing a vehicle large enough for a stationary unit.
How does the size of the Gambler Portable compare to the King-Griller Gambler?
The Gambler Portable is classified as a large grill with dimensions of 39 inches wide by 22 inches long. The King-Griller Gambler is listed as a medium size, measuring 13.8 inches wide by 9.45 inches long. The Portable model offers a significantly larger footprint for cooking space.
Does the King-Griller Gambler include a side shelf?
Yes, the King-Griller Gambler includes a side shelf. This feature provides extra workspace for preparing food or placing tools while cooking. It complements the cast iron grates and tool storage hooks, making it suitable for patios where you value additional storage and mobility over compact portability.
What fuel type do both Char-Griller Gambler models use?
Both models use charcoal as their fuel source. This allows for classic charcoal cooking flavors in both the portable and king versions. You will need to source charcoal separately, as neither model includes fuel. This fuel type supports traditional grilling and smoking techniques for both units.
What is the weight difference between the two Gambler grills?
The Gambler Portable weighs 39.6 pounds, while the King-Griller Gambler weighs 18.6 pounds. The Portable model is more than twice as heavy due to its robust wheeled design and larger frame. The King-Griller is lighter, reflecting its smaller medium size and stationary patio orientation.
Are the grates on both grills made of cast iron?
Yes, both grills feature cast iron grates. The King-Griller Gambler explicitly lists cast iron grates as a key feature. The Gambler Portable also shares this component, ensuring durable heat retention and classic searing capabilities. This material choice is consistent across both the portable and king variants in the Gambler line.
Can the King-Griller Gambler be used as a smoker?
The King-Griller Gambler is compatible with a smoker appliance. This flexibility allows you to adapt the grill for low-and-slow cooking methods. Its medium size and cast iron construction support this versatility, making it a solid choice for patios where you value storage and mobility over compact portability.