Choosing a charcoal grill is one of the most rewarding outdoor purchases you can make. It is also one of the easiest to get wrong: the range of sizes, shapes and materials makes “just pick one” harder than it sounds. This guide covers the four main types of charcoal grill, the features that actually matter, and a simple five-step way to match a grill to the way you really cook.

Why a charcoal grill is still worth it

Gas and pellet grills have their fans, but charcoal has never lost its edge. It burns hot enough to sear, adds a smoky flavour you cannot fake, and stays refreshingly simple — no gas lines, no electronics, no proprietary fuel.

• Flavour and searing — high, dry heat for steaks, skewers and roasts.
• Simple and repairable — fewer parts, easy upkeep, and it still works when the power is out.
• Fuel freedom — lumpwood, briquettes or wood, all widely available.
• Made for gatherings — a lit charcoal grill becomes the centre of the party.

The four main types of charcoal grill

Most charcoal grills fall into one of four groups. Each is good at a different job.

Kettle grills — the dependable all-rounder

The classic round grill with a lid. It heats evenly, cleans easily, and suits everything from a weeknight burger to a slow lid-on roast. If you only ever own one charcoal grill, a kettle is the safe pick. See JAXEN’s 22.5 inch kettle deluxe grill with trolley, or the lighter 18 inch kettle grill.

A 22.5 inch kettle grill on its trolley in a backyard at golden hour — charcoal glowing, burgers and corn on the grate.

Kamado grills — heat-retention champions

A kamado uses a thick ceramic shell to hold heat for hours on very little charcoal, which makes it excellent for both slow smoking and high-heat searing. It is heavier and costs more, but it is hard to beat for versatility. A good reference point is the 21 inch ceramic kamado grill with trolley.

A 21 inch ceramic kamado — long, steady heat for smoking and sharp, high heat for searing.

Trolley and cart grills — best for entertaining

Add wheels and a side shelf and a charcoal grill suddenly fits a real gathering: you can wheel it to the patio, keep sauces and tools within reach, and roll it out of the rain. If you cook for groups, a trolley charcoal grill with side shelf tends to be the most practical layout.

Spit roasters — for whole-animal and hospitality cooking

A spit roaster turns meat slowly over a charcoal bed for even, self-basting results — the tool of choice for caterers and anyone cooking whole animals. JAXEN’s mini charcoal spit roaster with trolley shows the compact end of this category.

How to choose — a 5-step checklist

1. Decide the cooking area first. 15–18 inch suits 2–3 people; 21–22.5 inch suits a family of 4–6; larger sizes are for groups or catering.
2. Choose the fuel and ignition. Lumpwood lights fast and hot; briquettes burn longer and steadier. A chimney starter beats lighter fluid every time.
3. Pick the material. Powder-coated steel is light and affordable; cast iron and ceramic add weight, heat retention and price.
4. Think about mobility. Wheels, a folding frame and a handle matter far more than they look — especially if the grill lives in a shed or garage.
5. Check the details. Adjustable vents, an ash catcher, a lid thermometer, a warming rack and a side table are the features you will notice on every single cook.

Charcoal vs. gas vs. pellet

If you are torn between fuels, the honest answer depends on your priorities:

Many cooks end up with two grills: a gas or electric one for quick weeknights, and a charcoal one for weekends and entertaining. JAXEN builds all three — from gas BBQ grills to charcoal kettles and kamados.

Features worth paying for (and what to skip)

Worth it: a tight-fitting lid, adjustable vents, a removable ash catcher, a sturdy grate, and a side table or shelf.

Usually optional: built-in lid thermometers on basic kettles (a probe is more accurate), decorative chrome trim, and specialist accessories you will rarely use.

Quick care and safety tips

• Empty the ash after every few cooks — damp ash rusts steel.
• Season cast-iron grates and keep them lightly oiled.
• Keep the grill on a stable, heat-safe surface, well clear of walls and overhangs.
• Never use a charcoal grill indoors or in a closed garage.

Frequently asked questions

What size charcoal grill do I need for a family of four?

A 21–22.5 inch kettle gives comfortable room for four plus a few guests. If you routinely host larger groups, step up to a 26 inch grate or add a second grill.

Is a kamado worth it over a kettle?

If you want long, slow cooks and maximum fuel efficiency, yes. If you mostly grill quick meals and want value, a kettle covers most of that for less money and weight.

Charcoal or gas for a beginner?

Gas is faster to master. Charcoal rewards a little patience with better flavour — start with a chimney starter and you will be confident within a few cooks.

How much charcoal does a kettle use?

Roughly 1–2 kg (2–4 lb) for a typical family cook. A chimney starter keeps the fire consistent without guesswork.

Still deciding? Tell us how you cook and who you cook for, and our team will point you to the right model — or send distributors and project buyers our OEM/ODM catalogue. Send an enquiry or browse charcoal grills.