Kettle, Portable or Offset Smoker: Which Charcoal Grill to Buy
“Charcoal grill” covers several very different machines. Picking the right type is mostly about how — and where — you cook.
Kettle grills
The round, lidded classic. Versatile, affordable and beginner-friendly — it sears, grills and (with two zones) even smokes. A 22-inch kettle suits most families. If you only buy one grill, make it this.
Portable grills
- Compact and light for balconies, camping, picnics and small spaces.
- Look for legs or wheels, a secure lid and a size that matches how many you cook for.
- Great as a second grill even if you own a full-size one.
Offset smokers
A side firebox feeds smoke and low heat into a larger chamber — built for slow-cooked brisket, ribs and pulled pork. More involved to run, but unbeatable for real low-and-slow barbecue.
How to choose
- Everyday all-rounder: a 22-inch kettle.
- Tight space or on the move: a portable grill.
- Serious low-and-slow BBQ: an offset smoker.
Match the grill to your space and your cooking. See our full range to compare kettles, portables and smokers.