No other way of grilling can convey the grilling feeling of a charcoal grill. While gas or electric grills are practical, the incomparable smoke aroma is only created when grilling on charcoal. However, if you do decide to buy a charcoal grill, there are a few things to consider before you simply buy the next best deal that has performed well in the price comparison.
You should choose the grill based on your needs. To do this, you first have to deal with what the individual grill variants can do best. The size should also match how often and how much you want to grill. Last but not least, there are a number of additional features that can improve and simplify the grilling experience.
Your personal best charcoal grill
Different manufacturers have a wide variety of grill models on offer. In the top 5 of the best charcoal grills in 2020, you can find the test winners from five different categories in terms of design and price structure. Because in addition to the classic ball or column grill, there are a number of other designs that, depending on your intended use, may be significantly better or less suitable than others.
If you rarely grill or if it is a unique camping experience, it is not worth buying an expensive device. For this purpose, a simple camping or disposable grill is completely sufficient. The higher your demands, the more likely you should invest in a better model.
A column grill is an open model (also called a funnel grill) that works on the principle of a fireplace. Compared to other models, the air supply in these models is guaranteed from above and below. On the one hand, this leads to rapid and good heat development and allows you to grill well even with little charcoal. They are available in different sizes and price ranges, so that they are suitable for beginners as well as for regular grill users who want to grill quickly and easily in a small space. Indirect grilling is not possible with these models due to the missing lid.
If you want to grill indirectly, it is worth purchasing a kettle grill. These models are easy to use, available in different sizes and allow greater flexibility in the preparation of the food to be grilled, as high temperatures can be built up under the lid for indirect cooking. Some kettle grills are also very compact, so they are well suited for grilling on the balcony.
If you have more space available and grill more often, it is worth purchasing a grill cart. With these models you have plenty of space for the food to be grilled, so that you can grill for many people and you can grill both actively and passively. There is also plenty of storage space available.
If you only want to grill indirectly, a smoker can also be considered for you, but with these models you are more restricted in terms of the method of preparation.
Size and effort
If you only have limited space, you should use a small grill model that can be used safely and safely in a small area. A cheap charcoal grill can also be a good choice here, provided it is solidly made. For use on a balcony, we recommend the kettle grill, because the models are stable, available in small versions and open fire can be avoided through the lid. In addition, cleaning and operation is relatively easy and is therefore also well suited for casual barbecues and beginners.
A funnel grill is worthwhile for everyone who wants to grill quickly and easily over high heat. Since the models often get hotter than kettle grills, care should be taken when using them on a balcony or close to walls and other elements. More expensive and higher quality funnel grills also offer a large grill area and often two grill grates at different heights. Preparing the grill requires a little more fine adjustment than with the kettle grill, since the air supply has to be added to fire it up and then taken down later in order to keep the heat long. It can be problematic if it is windy and a lot of coal has been poured in. The use is therefore a little more cumbersome for complete beginners.
A grill cart is complex, but very comfortable. Since it is usually much larger than a ball or funnel grill, it is much more effort to put it into operation. The models also require more coal for firing and the cleaning effort is greater than with smaller compact models. Nevertheless, a grill cart offers excellent options for grilling in different ways, quickly and easily adjusting the temperature and the distance between the grate and charcoal, varying the air supply and also preparing larger quantities.
Additional equipment
If you are serious about grilling and want to achieve perfect results, you should pay attention to some features that should not be missing from a good grill. First of all, all models with a lid have a well-functioning thermometer so that the temperature inside can be precisely adjusted. A grill grate that is coated accordingly and can be cleaned quickly and easily is also recommended.
You should also make sure that the distance between the grate and the charcoal can be changed quickly and easily so that you can adjust the distance between the food to be grilled according to the heat development.
In terms of additional equipment, a grill cart offers the best scope, but also requires the most space. Another useful feature is an ash compartment that can be emptied and cleaned quickly and easily. This saves you a lot of cleaning effort.
Tepro 1061 Toronto charcoal grill
The model from Tepro prevailed as the best charcoal grill in the grill cart category. Due to its size, a grill cart is more recommended for an open garden than for use on a balcony. The Toronto Grill was able to convince above all with its excellent functionality and a very good price-performance ratio, because the inexpensive grill cart was available for less than 100 euros in the test period, offers a grill area of 2x 41.5 × 27.5 cm and additional space on the upper level. With a total size of 115 x 67 x 107 cm, the grill is a comfortable size and comes with lots of additional functions such as a side table, bottle opener, suspensions and temperature sensors.
The testers particularly liked the variable heat setting by adjusting the carbon compartment with a crank. The heat on the grate could be adjusted effortlessly and easily and always ensured a perfect grill temperature. The lid can be folded down for cooking and the temperature can be easily regulated through the four adjustable ventilation openings.
The material withstood the heat well even after frequent application of heat and only the enamel layer on the back tended to peel off in some testers if it came into contact with a lot of heat for a long time. Tepro also offers a cover to match the grill so that the grill trolley can be left outside without being damaged or rusting.
It was also easy to clean because the grids are very easy to remove and easy to clean. With a weight of almost 40 kilograms, the model always stood securely on the ground. Overall, the material thickness could have been a little thicker in some places, because some parts - like the handle for the flap in front of the coal compartment - felt a bit wobbly, but the bottom line is the price-performance ratio is great and the durability is absolutely sufficient for - with good care - years of barbecue enjoyment.
The test winner among the best charcoal grills of 2020 convinced across the board with its excellent price-performance ratio. The low price comes with one or the other small weakness. Using the comparison below, you can quickly and easily weigh up whether the purchase is worthwhile for you.
Grillchef BBQ 11282 funnel grill Inox
The charcoal grill made of stainless steel by Grillchef was able to establish itself as the best funnel grill . The assembly was quick and easy and the finished grill is stable and secure despite its low weight.
With a grill area of 48 × 46.5cm, it offers enough space for a complete grill meal for 6-8 people and the height of 95cm was also found to be very pleasant by most testers, so that it can be used comfortably while standing. So it was not uncomfortable for tall people over 1.90 m to stand at the grill.
In terms of price, the grill is in the middle range and thus offers a very good price-performance ratio. Because of the construction of the funnel and the good air supply, the charcoal heats up very quickly and the heat can be perfectly distributed very easily.
The only disadvantage perceived as a disadvantage was that the minimum distance between the grate and the coal was too large, because this means that even smaller portions require a relatively large amount of coal to reach the correct temperature.
The long-term test showed weaknesses in the wooden handles and overall the stainless steel could have been a bit thicker. Overall, however, the grill was convincing across the board with its compact design, good price-performance ratio and good heat development and distribution. If you are not afraid of more complicated assembly instructions and are looking for a small but efficient grill, the 11282 BBQ Grill from Grillchef is the right choice.
Grillchef's funnel grill is a good charcoal grill that you can use to reach high temperatures. You can see the advantages and disadvantages of the model in the comparison below.
Weber 14505004 Master Touch Ivory 57 cm kettle grill
The very expensive model from Weber was able to assert itself as the best kettle grill , because in contrast to its cheap little brothers of the competitors it withstood the long-term tests perfectly and comes with a very good workmanship. The 57cm grill area is neatly sized so that larger portions can be prepared.
The entire cleaning concept was also far better in the test than the cheaper competition. This made it much easier to keep the grill clean and in good condition. Because the main cause of rapid wear and tear on the cheap grills is a high degree of soiling and damage and thus rust formation. This occurred much less with the Weber model, although this model also has its pitfalls in terms of cleaning in some places.
With a total weight of almost 20 kilograms, the grill also has very good stability and the wheels were also able to withstand several grill seasons in the test without damage or signs of wear. However, due to the relatively large diameter, the charcoal grill with lid should not be used on the balcony, as it is usually not possible to guarantee sufficient distance on all sides.
If you are looking for a kettle grill that should work reliably for several years, you can hardly ignore the Weber model, even if it is price - objectively considered - very expensive. Especially since the grill grate of this model is not a stainless steel grate, but a coated steel grate (chrome-plated).
The Weber kettle grill is indisputably superbly manufactured and rightly very popular among grill fans. Nevertheless, the investment is certainly not worthwhile for everyone. The following is an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of the model.
Grillchef by Landmann charcoal column grill
The cheap charcoal grill from Landmann was able to secure the test victory among the column grills. It is simple and easy to set up, but impressed with its good heat distribution and the compact but sufficiently stable construction.
With dimensions of 58x42x84cm, it can also be used on the balcony, even if you have to be careful with regard to heat development. The model has some material weaknesses, for example that the handle of the ashtray is not fireproof and with some testers started to burn or melted away or that the handles of the grill grate are a bit unwieldy.
Overall, the grill was secure, but due to its construction it was a bit wobbly, which is mainly due to the small radius of the pillar plate. But safety is still guaranteed, there was no risk of tipping over.
Nevertheless, the model was able to convince all along the line with its simple structure, very good price-performance ratio and very good grilling results, so that it is worthwhile for everyone who is looking for a simple, compact solution for occasional grilling to buy the grill .
Landmann's column grill is simple and inexpensive, but it was able to convince in the test. You can easily weigh up whether the purchase is also worthwhile for you if you compare the strengths and weaknesses.
BBQ-Toro Charcoal Grill Cart Premium charcoal grill cart
The combination device from CS Trading prevailed as the best smoker. The mobile trolley has a 73 x 38cm grill area, four ventilation slides and lots of wooden shelves. Another warming rack is built into the lid.
With the device, good results were achieved in the test with both direct and indirect grilling and smoking and the heat development was also convincing. The testers particularly liked the large range of functions and the very good material processing - especially when you consider the low price. In addition, in contrast to many other - often significantly more expensive - models, the grids are chrome-plated, which makes cleaning much easier. With a width of 110 cm and a depth of 55 to 71 cm, depending on the use of the storage space, you need a lot of space for the grill cart.
If there is enough space available and you may also want to grill or smoke passively, then the combination grill is the right choice for you. However, the model should not be left in the rain, as rust formed very quickly.
The smoker from CS Trading is fully equipped and convinced the testers with its good functionality. Below is a brief comparison of the strengths and weaknesses.
Gas grill with rotisserie: Top 6 offers & correct use
In this blog post we will tell you
Which models are the best gas grills with a rotisserie .
The advantages and disadvantages of grilling with a rotisserie .
How to grill properly with the rotisserie .
Grilling with a gas grill already offers you many advantages over conventional charcoal or electric grills.
List BEST 2 BURNER GAS GRILLS
But a gas grill with a rotisserie offers you even more preparation options . Therefore, we have selected the best model for each brand below, taking into account the price and performance ratio.
What is a rotisserie?
A rotisserie spit - also known as rotisserie - is a great way to grill large pieces of meat or whole fish on all sides.
The motorized grill spit turns evenly over the grill surface and ensures that the food is grilled crispy and golden-brown. Grilling with a rotisserie is often possible indirectly.
Here you close the lid and let the meat grill in its own steam for several hours on the rotisserie . This makes it particularly tender and juicy. A gas grill with a backburner is also very suitable to combine with a rotisserie.
What are the advantages of a rotisserie?
The advantages of a gas grill with a rotisserie are:
- Even browning of the food on all sides
- Simple, automatic handling
- Available for almost every gas grill
- Suitable for direct and indirect grilling
A gas grill can almost always be expanded with a rotisserie . Therefore, we would like to introduce you to some models that either already have a rotisserie installed or that can be expanded with a special product.
Tip : If there is no suitable rotisserie for your gas grill, a universal rotisserie * could be the right solution for you.
Weber Barbecue Genesis II E310
With the model " Weber Barbecue Genesis " you have a perfect partner for relaxed barbecues by your side. Thanks to its high-performance burner, your grilled food is perfectly heated, and you can keep the temperature under control at all times thanks to the stepless regulator.
Its robust construction made of stainless steel and aluminum also makes it very durable and the grill grate made of painted cast iron is very easy to clean. In conjunction with the matching rotisserie * you can prepare real barbecue delights.
Landmann Barbecues 12660 Miton 4.1
The 145x116x62 cm large Landmann Barbecues 12660 Miton 4.1 is the perfect grill for the preparation of delicious grilled dishes thanks to its double-walled hood .
In combination with the universal rotisserie from Landmann *, it becomes a gas grill with rotisserie and side burner , so that there are hardly any limits to your grill ideas.
The 4 continuously adjustable burners cook your grilled food perfectly to the point, while you can prepare delicious side dishes on the side burner at the same time.
Outdoor chef Australia 455 G
If the Outdoor Chef Australia 455 G is in your garden, the next barbecue party can come. The 4-burner system with electronic ignition provides the necessary heat on the grill, while your grill utensils can be relaxed on the side shelves.
Together with the electronically operated Outdoor Chef rotating basket set *, your friends will be amazed by your grilling skills. The robust stainless steel basket prevents the meat from losing its juice, as it does not have to be skewered.
Napoleon Prestige Pro
The Napoleon Prestige Pro is a real luxury grill . This is reflected in the price, but it convinces across the board in various tests. The stainless steel gas grill impresses with its high-quality workmanship and its LIFT EASE roller hood .
In conjunction with the 47 × 12.7 × 12.7 cm Napoleon 64007 Rotary Shish Kebab , the gas grill with rotisserie spit and rear burner is perfect for preparing delicious shish kebab skewers. And while the food is cooking on the wire rack, the side dishes can be prepared on the side burner.
Ender's gas grill KANSAS PRO 3 SIK Turbo
The Enders gas grill KANSAS PRO impresses with its heat range burner system , which ensures constant temperatures on the cooking surface. The turbo zone also allows you to sear steaks.
Together with the Enders rotisserie spit 7902 , large pieces of meat can also be grilled perfectly. In addition, the gas grill with rotisserie spit and backburner has a viewing window with which you can see your food at all times, even when the hood is closed.
BBQ Chief gas grill 9.0
The BBQ Chief gas grill 9.0 convinces not only thanks to the 4 stainless steel burners and the additional side burner. The double-walled hood as well as the cast iron grill and warming rack also ensure perfect grilling enjoyment.
The integrated electric rotisserie ensures even more grilling pleasure and also makes large dishes such as chicken or duck a success. In addition, the dripping juice can be reused thanks to the integrated and removable fat collecting tray .
What do you have to look out for when buying a gas grill with a rotisserie?
So that you don't get any nasty surprises after buying your new gas grill, there are a few things you should look out for before buying .
In many cases, gas grills are offered with a rotisserie, but the skewer must be purchased separately. Before buying, therefore, pay close attention to the item description and buy the right grill skewer directly if necessary.
Of course, you should also pay attention to the quality and functions of your gas grill with rotisserie. With the rotisserie itself, it is important that it has a motor. Otherwise you have to turn the skewer manually and stay with your grill all the time.
In order to be able to take full advantage of your rotisserie grill, it is also worth paying attention to a built-in rear burner . This provides a lot of heat and is ideal for the preparation of rolled roasts and chicken.
As far as the grill body is concerned, you should also pay attention to high-quality workmanship . Stainless steel is a material that is particularly robust and therefore always a good choice.
Advantages and disadvantages of grilling with a rotisserie
benefits
- Larger pieces of meat are cooked all around.
- Rotary spits including motor are very convenient.
- Thanks to the grill skewer, the possibilities for using the grill are expanded.
disadvantage
- Light grilled food, such as fish or cheese, disintegrates on the grill skewer.
- Manually operated grill skewers without a motor require a lot of effort.
What should I watch out for when grilling with a rotisserie?
To make grilling with the rotisserie a real feast, you should consider the following points:
- Skewer the grilled food as centrally as possible on the skewer so that it cooks well and the skewer can rotate easily.
- Grilled food that is not inherently firm and could therefore fall apart should be tied with some kitchen twine.
- The food to be grilled should always be completely thawed before it is put on the skewer.
- Close the lid while grilling so that the heat can be distributed evenly.
- You can place a drip tray under the rotisserie to prepare a delicious sauce from the meat juice.
- It is essential to observe the temperature and cooking time specifications given in the recipe.
What can I prepare with a gas grill rotisserie?
There are many great recipes you can make using a gas grill and rotisserie. Especially in combination with a backburner, crispy chickens like those from the snack bar are no longer a problem.
Another special tip are potatoes and French fries . Even if it sounds unusual, special grill baskets * are available to buy, in which you can grill even smaller foods evenly from all sides. A grill basket can be easily attached to the rotisserie and ensures that the food does not fall down.
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