Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill or Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill? Which Char-Griller Model to Buy
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You are deciding between the char griller gambler portable charcoal grill vs patio pro charcoal models. Both are barrel-style charcoal grills with cast iron grates and side shelves. The main difference is portability and cooking space. The Gambler is designed for transport with folding legs and wheels. The Patio Pro is a heavier, stationary unit with a larger footprint. You should choose based on whether you need mobility or a dedicated outdoor kitchen spot.
Key differences
| Aspect | Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill | Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 320 square inches | 250 square inches |
| Weight | 39.6 pounds | 50 pounds |
| Height | 40 inches | 44 inches |
| Form Factor | Portable with folding construction | Stationary with heavy-duty steel |
| Temperature Control | Stainless steel thermometer | Side air vent |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill if
- You need to move the grill frequently for tailgating or camping.
- You want a larger cooking surface relative to the grill's weight.
- You prefer a lower profile for easier access to the grates.
Choose Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill if
- You want a taller grill that reduces the need to bend over.
- You need a heavier, more stable unit for a fixed patio location.
- You value a dedicated bottom storage rack for long-term use.
Verdict: Choose the Gambler if you prioritize portability and a larger cooking area for its weight. Pick the Patio Pro if you want a taller, heavier unit for a permanent spot. Both models use charcoal and cast iron grates for consistent heat.
Gambler vs Patio Pro Specs
Cooking Area
The Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill offers a 320 square inch cooking surface, providing more space for larger meals or batch cooking. In comparison, the Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill provides a 250 square inch total cooking area. This difference gives you extra room on the Gambler for ribs or multiple items at once. If you frequently cook for larger groups or need more surface area, the Gambler has the advantage. The Patio Pro is sufficient for smaller households or occasional grilling sessions.
Portability
The Gambler is built for transport with folding legs, a locking lid design, an integrated handle, and two wheels for easy movement. It weighs 39.6 pounds. The Patio Pro Charcoal Grill weighs 50 pounds and includes wheels for mobility but lacks the folding mechanism and locking features of the Gambler. The Patio Pro is designed as a stationary unit for decks or patios. If you plan to move your grill often or take it camping, the Gambler is the better choice due to its lighter weight and portable design.
Dimensions
The Gambler measures 22 inches in length, 39 inches in width, and 40 inches in height. The Patio Pro Charcoal Grill is taller, standing at 44 inches high, with dimensions of 31 inches in length and 21 inches in width. The Patio Pro has a narrower footprint but requires more vertical clearance. The Gambler is wider and shorter, which may fit better under certain covers or in wider spaces. Consider your available space and whether you need a taller unit for easier access without bending.
Weight
Weight affects how easy it is to move the grill. The Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill weighs 39.6 pounds, making it lighter and easier to lift or carry. The Patio Pro Charcoal Grill weighs 50 pounds, which is heavier and may be more stable but harder to relocate. If you value ease of movement or plan to store the grill in a garage or shed, the lighter Gambler is more convenient. The heavier Patio Pro may stay more firmly in place during windy conditions.
Thermometer
The Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill includes a stainless steel thermometer to help you monitor internal grill temperature while cooking. The data for the Patio Pro Charcoal Grill does not list an included thermometer. Having a built-in thermometer allows you to check heat levels without opening the lid, which helps maintain consistent cooking temperatures. If precise temperature monitoring is important to you, the Gambler provides this feature. You would need to use a separate thermometer with the Patio Pro if you choose that model.
Build Material
Both grills share similar core construction materials. The Patio Pro Charcoal Grill is made from heavy-duty steel with a powder coating finish and features thick cast iron cooking grates. The Gambler also uses cast iron cooking grates for even heating. Both models prioritize durability with steel construction. The Patio Pro includes a premium wood shelf and side air vent for control. The Gambler focuses on portable features. Neither model lacks cast iron grates, which are essential for searing and flavor.
Which Char-Griller Grill Suits Your Needs
You need to transport the grill to campsites
The Gambler features folding legs, a locking lid, and an integrated handle for easy transport. Weighing 39.6 pounds, it is lighter than the Patio Pro. Its 320 square inch cooking area allows for larger batches. The two wheels and portable design make it ideal for tailgating or camping trips where mobility matters most.
You want a stable station for your patio
The Patio Pro stands 44 inches tall with a 31 inch width, offering a stable footprint. It includes a premium wood side shelf and bottom storage rack. The heavy-duty steel construction supports a 50 pound weight. This model suits fixed outdoor kitchens where you need extra workspace and storage for tools and accessories.
You prioritize maximum cooking surface area
With 320 square inches of grilling space, the Gambler provides 70 square inches more than the Patio Pro. This extra room is useful for cooking larger quantities of food simultaneously. Both models use cast iron grates for even heating. If your primary goal is fitting more food on the grill, the Gambler offers the larger capacity.
You prefer a compact footprint for small decks
The Patio Pro measures 21 inches by 31 inches, creating a narrower profile than the Gambler. Its 250 square inch cooking area is sufficient for small families. The included side air vent and damper control help manage airflow precisely. This model fits well in tighter spaces while still providing essential features like a side shelf and ash pan.
The products compared
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 built for small patios and decks. It offers 250 square inches of cooking space over thick cast iron grates. The heavy-duty steel body includes a side shelf, storage rack, and wheels for mobility. An easy-dump ash pan simplifies cleanup. This model suits you if you want a durable, portable option for backyard cooking without needing a large footprint.
Pros
- 250 square inch total cooking area
- Thick cast iron cooking grates
- Heavy-duty steel construction with powder coating
- Side air vent for temperature control
- Easy dump ash pan for quick cleanup
Cons
- Smaller cooking area than larger family grills
- Heavy at 50 pounds
- No mention of a lid thermometer
Good fit if
- You have limited patio or deck space
- You prefer charcoal flavor over gas
- You want a grill with cast iron grates
Skip if
- You need to feed more than four people
- You want gas convenience
- You need a built-in temperature gauge
Verdict: Char-Griller Patio Pro 250 sq in Charcoal Grill is a solid choice for small outdoor spaces. It fits you well if you value cast iron heat retention and easy ash disposal in a compact footprint.
Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill
Best for: portable outdoor charcoal grilling
- 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 Gambler is a portable charcoal grill designed for home and travel use. It features a 320 square inch cooking area with cast iron grates for even heating. The unit includes a stainless steel thermometer to monitor temperature. Its barrel style construction folds for transport, with locking legs and two wheels for mobility. Weighing under 40 pounds, it offers a compact footprint for outdoor cooking.
Pros
- 320 square inch cooking area
- Cast iron cooking grates
- Folding construction with locking legs
- Integrated handle and two wheels
- Stainless steel thermometer included
Cons
- Smaller cooking area than fixed patio models
- Manual temperature monitoring only
- No ash catcher or smoker box included
Good fit if
- You need a grill for camping or tailgating
- You have limited storage space for outdoor equipment
- You prefer charcoal flavor over gas convenience
Skip if
- You require a large cooking surface for big gatherings
- You want precise temperature control without manual adjustment
- You prefer electric or gas ignition systems
Verdict: The Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill is a practical option for those prioritizing portability over capacity. It suits individuals who need a compact, foldable grill for travel rather than a permanent backyard fixture.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill | Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Charcoal | Charcoal |
| Cooking Area | 250 square inches | 320 Sq. In. |
| Primary Material | Heavy-duty steel | not stated |
| Form Factor | not stated | Portable |
| Material | Cast Iron | not stated |
| Features | Cast Iron Grates | not stated |
| Compatible Appliance | Smoker | not stated |
| Size | 18.80" L x 15.90" W x 15.40" H | Large |
| Dimensions | 31 × 21 × 44 inches | 22 × 39 × 40 inches |
| Weight | 50 pounds | 39.6 pounds |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | E1515 | E1816 |
Frequently asked questions
Which Char-Griller grill is better for small patios?
The Char-Griller Patio Pro is the better choice for small patios and decks. It features a compact footprint designed to fit well in limited outdoor spaces. Its dimensions and weight make it suitable for users who value cast iron heat retention without taking up too much room.
Is the Gambler grill heavy to carry?
The Char-Griller Gambler Portable Charcoal Grill weighs 39.6 pounds. This makes it lighter than the Patio Pro, which weighs 50 pounds. The Gambler includes an integrated handle and folding legs, making it a practical option for those prioritizing portability over capacity for travel or camping.
Do both grills use charcoal as fuel?
Yes, both the Char-Griller Gambler and the Patio Pro use charcoal as their fuel type. This allows you to achieve traditional charcoal grilling flavors with either model. You do not need to purchase propane tanks or hook up gas lines for either grill.
What material are the cooking grates made of?
Both grills feature cast iron grates. Cast iron provides excellent heat retention, which helps sear food effectively. The Patio Pro explicitly lists cast iron as its primary material, while the Gambler also includes cast iron grates for durable and even cooking performance.
Which model is larger in overall dimensions?
The Char-Griller Gambler is larger in overall dimensions. It measures 39 inches in width and 22 inches in length. The Patio Pro is more compact, measuring 21 inches in width and 31 inches in length. You should choose the Gambler if you need more surface area.
Can the Gambler be used as a smoker?
The Char-Griller Patio Pro is listed as compatible with a smoker appliance. The Gambler data does not specify smoker compatibility. If you plan to use a smoker attachment, the Patio Pro is the verified option based on the provided specifications for compatible appliances.
What is the cooking area difference between the two?
The Gambler offers a 320 square inch cooking surface, while the Patio Pro provides 250 square inches. The Gambler gives you more space for larger meals or batch cooking. If you frequently grill for groups, the extra 70 square inches on the Gambler may be beneficial.
Are both grills black in color?
Yes, both the Char-Griller Gambler and the Patio Pro are black in color. This neutral finish helps them blend into most outdoor kitchen or patio aesthetics. The color choice is consistent across both models, so you do not need to worry about mismatched equipment.