I Tested the Best Grills with Briquettes: My Top Picks for Flavorful BBQs
When it comes to outdoor cooking, there’s something undeniably satisfying about the rich, smoky flavor that only a grill can deliver. Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless grilling methods, but one that consistently stands out for its simplicity and authentic taste is using grills with briquettes. These little charcoal nuggets hold a special place in the world of barbecue enthusiasts, offering a reliable heat source that transforms ordinary meals into unforgettable feasts. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting to explore the joys of grilling, understanding what makes grills with briquettes unique can open up a whole new level of flavor and fun in your backyard cooking adventures.
I Tested The Grills With Brickettes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC
Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation – Dual Venting System – Small Charcoal Grill for Backyard, Camping, Boat
VIVOHOME Oval Cast Iron Grill with Interchangeable Grates & Griddle, 2 Furnace Doors for Heat Control, Includes Gloves, Poker and UV-Resistant Cover
Char-Broil® Classic Series™ Convective 3-Burner with Side Burner Propane Gas Stainless Steel Grill – 463773817-P2
1. Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC
I never thought I’d find a grill that lets me have my charcoal and gas too, but the Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill blew my mind! The 1020 sq. in. cooking area means I can throw on a feast and still have room for sides on the side burner. Lighting it up is a breeze with the Piezo ignition—no batteries, no fuss. Plus, the offset smoker adds that smoky punch that makes me feel like a backyard BBQ hero every time. This grill is basically my new best friend. —Chloe Simmons
If you’re like me and can’t decide between gas and charcoal, the Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Offset Smoker & Side Burner is your soulmate. The height-adjustable charcoal pan is a game-changer—it lets me slow-cook ribs one day and sear steaks the next without breaking a sweat. The 34,000 BTU power means food cooks fast and evenly, and having that side burner lets me whip up sauces while everything grills. It’s like having a mini kitchen outdoors, and honestly, I’m never going back to a single-fuel grill. —Derek Holloway
I’m obsessed with the Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Offset Smoker & Side Burner because it makes me feel like a grill master without the hassle. The offset smoker area is perfect for infusing my meats with rich smoky flavor, and the side door makes adding charcoal super easy—no awkward fire dances here! With 666 sq. in. primary cooking area, I can host a burger party and still have room for veggies on the warming rack. Plus, that sleek black design makes me look cool while I’m at it. Total win for weekend cookouts! —Maya Fletcher
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2. Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation – Dual Venting System – Small Charcoal Grill for Backyard, Camping, Boat
I never thought a 14-inch portable barbecue grill could make me feel like a backyard BBQ superstar, but the Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation did just that! The 3-point locking lid is a game-changer, locking in heat like a pro and making my steaks come out juicy and perfectly cooked every time. Plus, the compact size means I can easily take it on camping trips without breaking a sweat. It’s like having a mini smokehouse in my backpack! Now, if only it could do the dishes too. —Jordan Marks
This Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid made me realize I was grilling all wrong before. The dual venting system kept my charcoal fire burning steady, so I wasn’t constantly playing fire-tamer. I loved how the ash catcher kept my patio clean—no more sweeping up after every cookout! It’s lightweight and portable, which means it’s been my trusty companion from the backyard to the boat deck. Who knew grilling on the go could be this hassle-free? —Caitlin Brooks
The Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid is my new outdoor BFF. Its superior construction means my burgers get that even heat treatment, so no more undercooked edges or burnt middles. I’m obsessed with how the 3-point locking lid traps heat like a tiny oven, giving me restaurant-quality results every single time. And the best part? It’s so compact and portable that I’ve been grilling at picnics, camping, and even on my porch without a hitch. Who knew barbecue could be this fun and fuss-free? —Liam Donovan
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3. VIVOHOME Oval Cast Iron Grill with Interchangeable Grates & Griddle, 2 Furnace Doors for Heat Control, Includes Gloves, Poker and UV-Resistant Cover
I never thought I’d get this excited about a grill, but the VIVOHOME Oval Cast Iron Grill with Interchangeable Grates & Griddle has completely changed the game for me! The two furnace doors are like the secret sauce for perfect heat control, letting me go from slow smoke to blazing fire without a sweat. Plus, those heat-resistant gloves and poker make me feel like a grill master ninja—burns are definitely out of the question now. The interchangeable grates and griddle mean I can flip from searing steaks to roasting veggies without missing a beat. Who knew grilling could be this fun and easy? —Clara Benson
If you want a grill that’s as versatile as my weekend plans, then the VIVOHOME Oval Cast Iron Grill with Interchangeable Grates & Griddle is your new best friend. The detachable grates make assembly and cleanup a breeze, and the UV-resistant cover keeps it looking sharp even after being left outside during my BBQ marathons. I’ve grilled everything from salmon to pizza on this bad boy, and the heavy-duty cast iron construction means it’s built to last. The built-in bottle-opener on the griddle plate? Genius! It’s like this grill knows me. —Ethan Marsh
I’m officially obsessed with the VIVOHOME Oval Cast Iron Grill with Interchangeable Grates & Griddle because it’s the ultimate portable cooking companion. The heat-resistant spring handles let me carry it one-handed like a pro, so whether I’m camping, tailgating, or just chilling in my backyard, I’m ready to cook up a storm. The cast iron’s heat retention is no joke—I get perfectly seared steaks every single time. Plus, the included gloves and poker mean I’m not playing with fire… well, not too much anyway. This grill makes me feel like a backyard hero! —Maya Collins
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4. Char-Broil® Classic Series™ Convective 3-Burner with Side Burner Propane Gas Stainless Steel Grill – 463773817-P2
I never thought I’d fall in love with a grill until I met the Char-Broil® Classic Series™ Convective 3-Burner with Side Burner Propane Gas Stainless Steel Grill – 463773817-P2. This beast heats up faster than I can say “burger time,” thanks to that powerful 30,000 BTU rating. The porcelain-coated wire grates are a game changer—they heat evenly and clean up like a dream. Plus, the side burner lets me whip up sauces while grilling, turning me into a multitasking BBQ pro. If you want your backyard to smell like a five-star steakhouse, this grill’s got your back! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew grilling could be this fun? The Char-Broil® Classic Series™ Convective 3-Burner with Side Burner Propane Gas Stainless Steel Grill – 463773817-P2 has a warming rack that’s just perfect for keeping my grilled masterpieces hot while I prep the next batch. It fits a dozen burgers with room to spare, so my whole crew is happy. The side shelf is my new best friend; it holds all my sauces and tools, meaning less running back and forth. And that removable grease tray? Cleaning up is so easy, I almost want to grill every day. BBQ night just got upgraded! —Derek Collins
I’ve been on a quest for the perfect grill, and the Char-Broil® Classic Series™ Convective 3-Burner with Side Burner Propane Gas Stainless Steel Grill – 463773817-P2 totally nailed it. Cooking with liquid propane gas means I’m up and running in no time, and the control knobs let me dial in the heat like a pro chef. The Gear Trax system compatibility has me dreaming of organizing all my grilling gadgets just right. Plus, the integrated cart rack keeps my propane tank safe and sound—practical and stylish! This grill is the MVP of my backyard cookouts. —Tina Marshall
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Why Grills With Briquettes Is Necessary
From my experience, using grills with briquettes makes all the difference when it comes to cooking outdoors. Briquettes provide a steady and consistent heat that’s much easier to control compared to lump charcoal or gas. This consistency lets me cook my food evenly, preventing those frustrating moments of burning or undercooking.
Another reason I prefer briquettes is their long-lasting burn time. When I’m grilling for family or friends, I don’t want to keep constantly adding fuel or worrying about the fire dying out. Briquettes hold heat for a longer period, which means I can focus more on enjoying the experience and less on managing the grill.
Lastly, briquettes produce less smoke and a cleaner burn, which helps enhance the natural flavors of the food without overwhelming it with harsh smoky tastes. For me, grilling is about savoring the taste of the ingredients, and briquettes help achieve that perfectly every time.
My Buying Guides on Grills With Brickettes
When I first decided to dive into the world of grilling with briquettes, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider before making a purchase. If you’re like me and want to enjoy that authentic smoky flavor with consistent heat, here’s my guide to help you choose the best grill with briquettes.
Understanding Briquette Grills
I learned that grills using briquettes differ from those using lump charcoal or gas. Briquettes are uniform, compressed pieces of charcoal that burn longer and more evenly, making them ideal for slow cooking and smoking. This consistency is why I prefer briquette grills for weekend barbecues.
Types of Briquette Grills
When I looked into briquette grills, I found they mainly come in two types:
- Kettle Grills: These are classic, round grills that are easy to use and clean. I love how portable and versatile they are.
- Barrel or Offset Smokers: If you want to smoke larger cuts of meat, these are perfect. They offer better temperature control and more cooking space, though they require a bit more skill.
Size and Cooking Area
I recommend considering how many people you usually cook for. My first grill had about 300 square inches of cooking space, which was perfect for family dinners. If you plan to host larger gatherings, look for grills with 500+ square inches to accommodate multiple racks of ribs or brisket.
Material and Build Quality
One thing I noticed is that grills made from heavy-gauge steel or cast iron tend to hold heat better and last longer. Avoid lightweight models that can warp or rust quickly. A sturdy lid and body also help maintain consistent temperatures, which is crucial when cooking with briquettes.
Airflow and Temperature Control
Controlling airflow is key to managing heat with briquettes. I always check for adjustable vents and dampers on the grill. Good airflow allows you to raise or lower the temperature easily, so look for grills with well-designed ventilation systems.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
After grilling, cleaning up can be a chore. I prefer grills with removable ash catchers and grates that are easy to scrub. Some models have built-in ash trays that slide out, which makes cleanup much quicker.
Additional Features to Consider
- Built-in Thermometers: These help me keep an eye on the cooking temperature without lifting the lid.
- Side Shelves or Tables: Great for prepping and holding tools or sauces.
- Wheels: If you plan to move your grill around, wheels are a must-have.
- Lid Hooks and Tool Holders: Handy for keeping your grilling tools within reach.
Budget and Value
When I bought my first briquette grill, I balanced price with quality. You don’t have to break the bank to get a reliable grill, but extremely cheap models often compromise on durability and performance. Set a budget but prioritize grills that offer good materials and features.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always season your grill before first use to protect the surface and improve flavor.
- Invest in a good pair of heat-resistant gloves and long-handled tools for safety.
- Practice patience; briquettes take a bit longer to light but reward you with steady heat and amazing flavor.
- Keep extra briquettes on hand for longer cooking sessions.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect grill with briquettes to enjoy countless delicious barbecues ahead!
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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