Looking Beyond the Titan Great Outdoors Ash & Ember Santa? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How each alternative compares

Oklahoma Joe's Rambler Tabletop Charcoal Grill

The Oklahoma Joe's Rambler is a compact charcoal grill that sacrifices the Santa Maria's large cooking surface for portability. It measures 26.8 inches wide and weighs 48.5 pounds, making it significantly lighter than the 92-pound Titan. This model uses charcoal as its fuel source, which changes the flavor profile from the wood and coal mix of the original. Its cast iron grates provide durable heat retention, similar to the Titan's included skillet. However, it lacks the height-adjustable grate mechanism, meaning you control heat only by moving coals. If you need a grill that fits in a car trunk for tailgating, this portable option is a practical swap.

Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill

The Char-Griller Patio Pro offers a larger footprint than the Santa Maria, measuring 31 inches wide and 44 inches high. It also uses charcoal fuel, aligning with the open-fire theme but without the adjustable grate height feature. Weighing 50 pounds, it is lighter than the 92-pound Titan, making it easier to move around a patio. This grill includes cast iron grates for solid searing capabilities. It is designed for small batch grilling, which may limit capacity compared to the Santa Maria's expansive cooking area. If you prioritize a wider cooking surface and a lower profile for small gatherings, this model provides a sturdy, manual control experience without the complexity of a flywheel system.

Grill Depots 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill

The Grill Depots 4-Burner Gas Grill shifts entirely away from charcoal to propane fuel. It is much larger, measuring 44.9 inches wide, and weighs 48 pounds. This model uses gas for consistent temperature control, which contrasts with the manual heat management of the Santa Maria. It features cast iron grates and a compatible griddle, offering versatile cooking surfaces. The side shelf adds convenience for prep space. If you want quick ignition and precise burner control without managing ash or coals, this gas grill is a strong alternative. It suits those who prefer the reliability of propane over the rustic flavor of wood and coal, while still maintaining a durable cast iron cooking surface.

VIVOHOME Cast Iron Tabletop Grill with Griddle

The VIVOHOME Cast Iron Tabletop Grill is a small, portable unit measuring 16.9 inches wide and weighing 30.2 pounds. It is significantly smaller and lighter than the 92-pound Santa Maria. This model uses charcoal and includes a reversible griddle, adding cooking versatility. Its cast iron construction ensures heavy-duty durability in a compact form. If you have limited outdoor space or need a grill for camping, this tabletop option is ideal. It sacrifices the large cooking area and height adjustment of the Santa Maria for easy storage and transport. It fits users who prioritize portability and multi-surface cooking over the capacity and traditional open-fire experience of the larger Titan grill.

IronMaster Cast Iron Tabletop Hibachi Grill

The IronMaster Cast Iron Tabletop Hibachi Grill is a compact charcoal grill designed for small spaces. It measures 14.8 inches wide and weighs 10 kilograms, making it much lighter than the Santa Maria. This model uses charcoal fuel and features a hibachi style, which is distinct from the Santa Maria's adjustable grate design. Its small footprint suits solo cooking or couples dining. If you need a grill that fits on a balcony or small patio, this portable hibachi is a practical choice. It offers durable cast iron construction but lacks the large cooking surface and heat control mechanisms of the Titan. It is best for those who prioritize compactness and portability over high-capacity grilling.

Ideamaxx 4-Burner Propane Grill with Reversible Griddle

The Ideamaxx 4-Burner Propane Grill uses gas fuel instead of charcoal or wood. It is a large unit, measuring 48.1 inches wide and 45.6 inches high. It weighs no data provided, but its size suggests it is substantial. This model includes cast iron grates and a reversible griddle, offering versatile cooking options. It features a side burner for added convenience. If you need to cook large quantities of burgers and flat items simultaneously, this gas grill provides consistent heat without managing coals. It is suitable for tailgating and backyard events. It sacrifices the rustic open-fire flavor of the Santa Maria for the speed and control of propane burners, making it a practical choice for frequent, high-volume outdoor cooking.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Titan Ash & Ember Santa Maria Grill

Best for: Authentic open-fire Santa Maria style cooking

Fuel Type

Wood and coal

Primary Material

Powder-coated steel

Dimensions

29 × 29 × 58.5 inches

Weight

92 pounds

View on Amazon: Titan Ash & Ember Santa Maria Grill Affiliate link

This Santa Maria style grill uses wood and coal for open-fire cooking. It measures 29 by 29 inches with a 58.5-inch height. The heavy 92-pound steel frame includes a cast iron skillet and adjustable grate. You control heat by raising or lowering the grate with a flywheel. It also converts to a fire pit by removing the legs.

Pros

• Adjustable grate height with flywheel for precise heat control
• Includes cast iron skillet and cooking grate
• Converts to a ground-level fire pit
• Heavy powder-coated steel construction

Cons

• Heavy 92-pound build limits portability
• Large 29-inch footprint requires ample space
• Requires wood and coal fuel only

Good fit if

• You want authentic Argentine-style open flame cooking
• You need precise heat control for searing or slow cooking
• You want a grill that doubles as a fire pit

Skip if

• You need a portable tabletop grill
• You prefer propane or gas fuel
• You have limited outdoor space

Verdict: Titan Great Outdoors Ash & Ember Santa Maria Grill offers precise heat control and versatile cooking options for those who value traditional open-fire methods. It suits backyard cooks who want a sturdy, multi-use grill.

2 Best premium

Oklahoma Joe's Rambler Tabletop Charcoal Grill

Best for: portable charcoal grilling with adjustable heat

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Cooking Area

218 sq. in.

Form Factor

Portable Tabletop

Primary Material

Heavy-duty steel

Features

Cast Iron Grates

Dimensions

19.5 × 26.8 × 21.8 inches

View on Amazon: Oklahoma Joe's Rambler Tabletop Charcoal Grill Affiliate link

The Oklahoma Joe's Rambler is a portable tabletop charcoal grill with 218 square inches of cooking space. It features heavy-duty steel construction and thick cast-iron grates for strong sear marks. An adjustable charcoal tray lets you control heat intensity, while a professional temperature gauge with glow-in-the-dark accents helps you monitor cooking conditions. This compact unit suits small gatherings and outdoor travel.

Pros

• 218 sq. in. cast-iron grate cooking area
• Adjustable height charcoal tray for heat control
• Glow-in-the-dark temperature gauge on lid
• Rubber-grip lid handle stays cool to touch

Cons

• Heavy-duty steel body weighs 48.5 pounds
• Limited to 218 square inches of cooking space
• No lid thermometer with analog dial scale

Good fit if

• You need a compact grill for tailgating or camping
• You want adjustable heat control with charcoal
• You prefer thick cast-iron grates for searing

Skip if

• You require a large cooking surface for crowds
• You want a lightweight grill under 30 pounds
• You prefer propane or gas fuel sources

Verdict: Oklahoma Joe's Rambler Charcoal Grill delivers portable charcoal performance with adjustable heat and durable cast-iron grates, making it a solid option for campers and tailgaters who prioritize sear quality over capacity.

3 Also great

Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill

Best for: Small batch charcoal grilling

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Cooking Area

250 sq.in.

Primary Material

Heavy duty steel

Features

Cast Iron Grates

Compatible Appliance

Smoker

Size

Large

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

The Char-Griller Patio Pro is a large charcoal grill offering 250 square inches of cooking space. It features heavy-duty steel construction and cast iron grates for durability. A side damper allows precise airflow control, while the EasyDump ash pan simplifies cleanup. Weighing 50 pounds, it measures 21 by 31 by 44 inches. This unit suits you if you want a reliable smoker-grill combo with straightforward manual controls.

Pros

• 250 square inches of cooking area
• Cast iron grates for heat retention
• Side damper for precise airflow control
• Heavy-duty steel construction
• EasyDump ash pan for quick cleanup

Cons

• Limited 250 square inch cooking surface
• Manual controls require active monitoring
• Heavy 50-pound build limits portability

Good fit if

• You prioritize durable steel construction
• You want precise airflow via a damper
• You need a dedicated charcoal smoker-grill

Skip if

• You need more than 250 square inches
• You prefer propane or gas fuel
• You want a lightweight portable unit

Verdict: The Char-Griller Patio Pro Charcoal Grill delivers solid performance for small gatherings. It fits you if you value manual control and durable materials over digital features.

4 Best gas

Grill Depots 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill

Best for: Small patio dinners and versatile griddle cooking

Fuel Type

Propane

Cooking Area

302 sq. in.

Heat Output

40,000 BTU

Burner Count

4

Placement

Outdoor

Application

Camping, Backyard

View on Amazon: Grill Depots 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill Affiliate link

The Grill Depots 4-burner gas grill delivers 40,000 BTU across 302 square inches of cooking space. It features porcelain enameled cast iron grates and a perforated griddle pan. Two wheels and folding side tables aid mobility and prep. It suits small patios or backyard dinners for two to four people.

Pros

• 40,000 BTU output from four independent burners
• 302 sq. in. cast iron grate and griddle surface
• Two wheels for easy relocation and folding side tables
• Porcelain enameled cast iron grates for even heat

Cons

• 48-pound weight makes it less portable than hibachi options
• Requires propane fuel instead of charcoal or wood
• Standard 44.9-inch width limits use on very small decks

Good fit if

• You want precise temperature control with adjustable burners
• You need a dedicated griddle pan for seafood or veggies
• You cook for two to four people regularly

Skip if

• You prefer the smoky flavor of charcoal or wood
• You need a lightweight grill for frequent car camping
• You have limited storage space for a 44.9-inch unit

Verdict: Grill Depots 4-Burner Portable Gas Grill offers reliable heat and versatile cooking surfaces for small gatherings. It fits buyers who prioritize consistent temperature control and easy cleanup over traditional charcoal methods.

5 Best cover

VIVOHOME Cast Iron Tabletop Grill with Griddle

Best for: versatile charcoal cooking with griddle options

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Primary Material

Cast iron

Placement

Outdoor

Form Factor

Portable

Included Accessories

Cover

Compatible Appliance

Griddle

View on Amazon: VIVOHOME Cast Iron Tabletop Grill with Griddle Affiliate link

The VIVOHOME VH1749 is a portable oval cast iron grill designed for versatile outdoor cooking. It includes interchangeable grates and a detachable griddle plate with a bottle opener. The unit measures 16.9 inches by 8.7 inches and weighs 30.2 pounds. Two furnace doors allow for airflow control. It comes with heat-resistant gloves and a fire poker. This grill suits you if you want a durable, multi-use cooking surface for steaks or pizzas.

Pros

• Includes interchangeable grill grates and a detachable griddle plate
• Constructed from 100% heavy-duty cast iron
• Features two furnace doors for airflow management
• Comes with heat-resistant silicone gloves and a fire poker

Cons

• Requires manual seasoning and oiling for maintenance
• Weighs 30.2 pounds, which is heavy for portability
• Limited to charcoal fuel type

Good fit if

• You want to cook steaks, salmon, or pizzas on cast iron
• You need interchangeable grates and a griddle plate
• You prefer manual airflow control with furnace doors

Skip if

• You need a lightweight grill under 20 pounds
• You want gas or propane fuel options
• You prefer automatic temperature control systems

Verdict: VIVOHOME Oval Cast Iron Grill is a solid choice for campers or backyard users who value heavy-duty cast iron construction and versatile cooking surfaces over lightweight convenience.

6 Best budget

IronMaster Cast Iron Tabletop Hibachi Grill

Best for: Small outdoor spaces and solo cooking

Fuel Type

Charcoal

Form Factor

Portable tabletop

Primary Material

Cast iron

Placement

Outdoor

Application

Camping

Style

Hibachi

View on Amazon: IronMaster Cast Iron Tabletop Hibachi Grill Affiliate link

The IronMaster Hibachi Grill is a portable tabletop charcoal unit built from pre-seasoned cast iron. It measures 14.8 by 9.2 by 7 inches and weighs 10 kilograms. The design includes an adjustable draft door for airflow control and two height settings. A side coal door allows for easy fuel management. This compact grill suits outdoor camping or small balcony spaces for two people.

Pros

• Constructed entirely from durable pre-seasoned cast iron
• Adjustable draft door for precise temperature control
• Two adjustable height settings for versatile cooking
• Side coal door for convenient fuel management

Cons

• Small capacity ideal only for two people
• Requires regular oiling to prevent rust
• Heavy cast iron build limits easy transport

Good fit if

• You need a compact grill for camping trips
• You want precise heat control via draft adjustment
• You cook for just one or two people

Skip if

• You need to grill for large groups
• You prefer low-maintenance materials that resist rust
• You require a lightweight portable option

Verdict: IronMaster Hibachi Grill Cast Iron delivers precise temperature control and durable construction in a compact footprint. It fits small outdoor spaces and couples well with solo or couple-sized meals.

7 Also great

Ideamaxx 4-Burner Propane Grill with Reversible Griddle

Best for: tailgating and versatile outdoor cooking

Fuel Type

Propane Gas

Heat Output

49,000 BTU

Burner Count

4

Primary Material

Stainless steel

Placement

Outdoor

Application

Camping, Backyard, Tailgating

View on Amazon: Ideamaxx 4-Burner Propane Grill with Reversible Griddle Affiliate link

This Ideamaxx unit offers 49,000 BTU across four stainless steel burners. It features a reversible cast iron surface that flips between ridged grilling and flat griddling. A dedicated side burner adds cooking flexibility. The porcelain enamel coating resists rust and simplifies cleaning. With space for 20 burgers, it suits tailgating and outdoor gatherings where high heat and versatile cooking options matter.

Pros

• 49,000 BTU total heat output
• Reversible cast iron griddle and grill surface
• Includes a dedicated side burner
• Porcelain-enamel coating for easy cleanup
• Stainless steel burners resist corrosion

Cons

• No digital temperature display
• No remote ignition system
• Heavy cast iron requires lifting to flip

Good fit if

• You need high heat for searing steaks
• You want to cook eggs or pancakes on a flat surface
• You are tailgating or camping with a group

Skip if

• You prefer charcoal for flavor
• You need a compact tabletop unit
• You want electric convenience

Verdict: Ideamaxx 4-Burner Propane Grill delivers strong heat and versatile cooking surfaces for outdoor events. It fits buyers who need to cook burgers and flat items simultaneously without waiting.

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Frequently asked questions

See also

• titan great outdoors ash ember 29 alternatives
• titan great outdoors ash ember 384 alternatives