11 Best Small Portable Charcoal Grills of 2025 [Best Reviews Guide]

Reviewer Name
  Jul 2, 2025 10:39 PM
11 Best Small Portable Charcoal Grills of 2025 [Best Reviews Guide]
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There’s something undeniably satisfying about grilling with charcoal—the smoky flavor, the sear, and the simplicity of it all. If you’re someone who loves that experience but needs a grill that’s compact and easy to carry, a small portable charcoal grill is the perfect solution. Whether you’re heading to a picnic, beach, tailgate, or just want something space-saving for your balcony, these top-rated grills deliver big flavor in a small package.

1. Weber Smokey Joe Premium Charcoal Grill

Best Overall

  • Size: 14 inches

  • Weight: 9.5 lbs

  • Key Features: Plated steel cooking grate, lid lock for easy portability, rust-resistant aluminum dampers

  • Why It Stands Out:
    The Weber Smokey Joe is a classic for a reason. It offers excellent heat control, durable construction, and a sleek design. Ideal for small gatherings or solo grilling sessions, it’s easy to pack, carry, and store.

Pros:

  • Great heat retention

  • Compact and lightweight

  • Affordable

Cons:

  • No built-in thermometer

  • Limited cooking space

2. Lodge Cast Iron Sportsman’s Grill

Best for Cast Iron Lovers

  • Size: 17.25 x 9 x 16.75 inches

  • Weight: 27 lbs

  • Key Features: All cast iron, adjustable height grill grate, draft door

  • Why It Stands Out:
    Built like a tank, this rugged grill is perfect for those who want cast iron performance and flavor. Though a bit heavier than others, it excels in heat retention and is virtually indestructible.

Pros:

  • Superior heat retention

  • Adjustable cooking heights

  • Durable and long-lasting

Cons:

  • Heavy

  • Needs seasoning and care

3. Cuisinart CCG-190 Portable Charcoal Grill

Best Budget Option

  • Size: 14-inch grate

  • Weight: 2 lbs

  • Key Features: Dual venting system, enamel-coated firebox, ash catcher

  • Why It Stands Out:
    Don’t let the price fool you—this little grill can get the job done. It's lightweight, easy to assemble, and perfect for casual use on the go.

Pros:

  • Ultra-lightweight

  • Very affordable

  • Decent air control

Cons:

  • Thin materials

  • Smaller cooking surface

4. Nomad Grill & Smoker

Best Premium Option

  • Size: 19.2 x 13.8 x 9.5 inches (closed)

  • Weight: 28 lbs

  • Key Features: Aerospace-grade aluminum, built-in thermometer, dual-function grill/smoker

  • Why It Stands Out:
    For serious grill enthusiasts who want portability without compromising performance, the Nomad is a game-changer. It’s beautifully engineered, easy to carry like a briefcase, and delivers pro-grade results.

Pros:

  • Incredible design and build quality

  • Smokes and grills

  • Excellent heat retention

Cons:

  • Expensive

  • Heavier than other portables

5. Char-Griller Akorn Jr. Kamado Charcoal Grill

Best Kamado-Style Portable

  • Size: 153 sq. in. cooking area

  • Weight: 37 lbs

  • Key Features: Insulated triple-wall steel, cast iron grates, top and bottom dampers

  • Why It Stands Out:
    Want kamado-style cooking in a portable form? The Akorn Jr. offers excellent heat retention and versatility in a surprisingly small footprint.

Pros:

  • Holds heat efficiently

  • Grills, bakes, and smokes

  • Heavy-duty build

Cons:

  • Heavy

  • Bulkier than most portable grills

Final Thoughts

Whether you're after something lightweight and affordable or a high-performance portable grill that rivals your backyard setup, there’s a small charcoal grill out there for you. Here's a quick guide:

Comparison

1
CanCooker Junior Portable Steam Cooker & Food Steamer for Campfire Cooking, Travel, RV & Tailgating | Includes Steamer for Cooking, Lid, Travel Bag & Recipe Book
  • RDG Score

    RDG Score is a ranking system developed by Redoxgrill.com. RDG score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    9.8
  • Brand
    CanCooker
2
Mueller Portable Charcoal Grill and Smoker, Go-Anywhere Compact Foldable Grill for Travel, Outdoor Cooking and BBQ, Camping Grill Picnic Patio Backyard, 23-Inch, Black
  • RDG Score

    RDG Score is a ranking system developed by Redoxgrill.com. RDG score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    9.5
  • Brand
    Mueller Austria
3
Cuisinart CCG190RB Inch BBQ, 14" x 14" x 15", Portable Charcoal Grill, 14" (Red)
  • RDG Score

    RDG Score is a ranking system developed by Redoxgrill.com. RDG score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    9.2
  • Brand
    Cuisinart
4
Weber Smokey Joe 14-Inch Portable Grill, Black
  • RDG Score

    RDG Score is a ranking system developed by Redoxgrill.com. RDG score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    8.9
  • Brand
    Weber
5
Royal Gourmet CD1519 Portable Charcoal Grill with Two Side Handles, Compact Outdoor Charcoal Grill with Bottle Opener, for Travel, Picnic, Tailgate, and Campsite Cooking, Black
  • RDG Score

    RDG Score is a ranking system developed by Redoxgrill.com. RDG score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    8.7
  • Brand
    Royal Gourmet
6
Everdure CUBE Portable Charcoal Grill, Tabletop BBQ, Perfect Tailgate, Beach, Patio, or Camping Grill, Lightweight & Compact Small Grill with Preparation Board & Food Storage Tray, Matte Black
  • RDG Score

    RDG Score is a ranking system developed by Redoxgrill.com. RDG score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    8.5
  • Brand
    Everdure
7
Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill, Black
  • RDG Score

    RDG Score is a ranking system developed by Redoxgrill.com. RDG score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    8.4
  • Brand
    Weber
8
RESVIN Charcoal Grills, Portable Charcoal Grill with Lid Stainless Steel Barbecue Grill, Small Folding Tabletop Grill for Outdoor Cooking Camping Beach Traveling Picnic Backyard
  • RDG Score

    RDG Score is a ranking system developed by Redoxgrill.com. RDG score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    8.2
  • Brand
    RESVIN
9
Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill 18 Inch Black
  • RDG Score

    RDG Score is a ranking system developed by Redoxgrill.com. RDG score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    8.0
  • Brand
    Weber
10
CUSIMAX Charcoal BBQ Grill, Portable Small Grills and Smokers Folding Tabletop Grills, for Camping Patio Backyard and Anywhere Outdoor Cooking, 18-Inch, Black
  • RDG Score

    RDG Score is a ranking system developed by Redoxgrill.com. RDG score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    7.8
  • Brand
    CUSIMAX
11
Baisal Portable Charcoal Grills for Outdoor BBQ, Foldable Camping Barbecue Hibachi Kabob Grill, 1.6 Ft² Barbeque Area Binchotan Grill with Shelf Carbon Tank and Carry Bag for Backyard Picnic Home
  • RDG Score

    RDG Score is a ranking system developed by Redoxgrill.com. RDG score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites. Learn more

    7.6
  • Brand
    baisal

Last update on 2025-07-04 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

The 9 Best Charcoal Grill Seriouseats Reviewed and Rated In 2025: .

Common Answers

Mueller Portable Charcoal Grill and Smoker, Go-Anywhere Compact Foldable Grill for Travel, Outdoor Cooking and BBQ, Camping Grill Picnic Patio Backyard, 23-Inch, Black

Best Small Patio Charcoal Grill 2025 | Must Read Before Buy: .

Final Words