7 Best Tongs for Grilling 2026

Command the grill from a safe distance with the XUDAKAIXIN 25-inch tongs, where extra-long reach meets elegant durability. These tongs stand out with their stainless steel core wrapped in a luxurious acacia wood handle, combining industrial strength with natural aesthetics—perfect for grilling purists who value both form and function. The 25-inch length ensures you stay far from flare-ups and intense heat zones, solving a core pain point for serious backyard chefs cooking over open flames or tall smokers.

In real-world testing, these tongs handled thick rib racks, delicate fish fillets, and even heavy brisket with remarkable stability and zero flex. The medical-grade stainless steel head resists corrosion and won’t react with acidic foods, making it safe for all grilling tasks. While the wood handle adds a premium feel and insulates well, it does require hand washing despite the metal body being dishwasher-safe—a small compromise for maintaining its polished look. On uneven grates or when flipping burgers at high heat, the scalloped gripping edges held firm without slipping.

Compared to the Traeger BAC790 or Walfos models, the XUDAKAIXIN trades some portability for unmatched reach and artisanal appeal, positioning itself as the go-to for large-format grilling or smokers where distance is key. It’s ideal for pitmasters, RV grillers, or anyone using deep charcoal chambers who prioritize safety and style. While not the most compact, its superior build and heat deflection outclass shorter, all-metal alternatives—offering a refined edge over the utilitarian Traeger despite lacking a hang loop.

Engineered for consistency and reliability, the Traeger BAC790 tongs deliver what every griller wants: no-fuss performance with rugged simplicity. These 16.5-inch tongs feature a full stainless steel build with a secure locking mechanism and hang loop, making them a seamless addition to any Traeger setup—or any griller’s toolkit. With a focus on everyday durability and smart storage, they solve the common frustrations of flimsy tongs that warp or lack organization.

During extensive grilling sessions, these tongs proved dependable on searing steaks, rotating sausages, and lifting grill grates, thanks to their solid construction and slip-resistant handle texture. The 16.5-inch length strikes a balance—long enough to avoid heat, short enough for precision. They’re dishwasher-safe and resist rust, even after repeated exposure to moisture and high heat. However, the gripping surface is smooth, so delicate items like fish or veggies can slip if not handled carefully.

Pitted against the OXO Good Grips or Walfos models, the Traeger tongs win on brand integration and ruggedness, but fall slightly short in ergonomics. They’re best for Traeger owners or those who want a no-nonsense, garage-to-grill tool that survives seasons of use. While they lack the comfort of silicone grips or the reach of 17+ inch models, their compact strength and hangable design make them more practical than premium wood-handled rivals—offering smarter daily utility than the XUDAKAIXIN despite less flair.

Precision meets protection with the GORILLA GRIP 7” and 9” tongs, specifically designed to safeguard non-stick surfaces without sacrificing grip. These tongs shine with their non-scratch silicone tips rated up to 484°F, making them perfect for air fryers, ceramic pans, and delicate fish—solving a major pain point for indoor cooks who dread ruining expensive cookware. The dual-length set offers versatility, letting you choose the right tool for small tosses or larger grilling tasks.

In real use, the silicone scalloped edges grabbed chicken breasts and salad greens with confidence, while the slip-resistant silicone handle and thumb rest reduced hand fatigue during extended tossing or flipping. The stainless steel core held up to daily dishwasher cycles with no warping, and the pull-lock mechanism made storage effortless in tight drawers. However, the 9-inch length limits reach on deep grills, and the silicone tips, while heat-resistant, aren’t ideal for direct flame zones above 500°F.

Compared to the Eddeas or Walfos models, these are not built for backyard barbecue dominance, but they outclass them in kitchen-specific tasks. They’re ideal for home cooks who grill indoors, use air fryers, or prioritize pan longevity. While they can’t match the Traeger’s outdoor durability, their specialized protection and dual-size convenience offer far more value than single long tongs for multi-surface cooking—making them smarter than budget 17-inch picks for delicate cuisine.

Maximum reach at minimum cost—the Walfos 17-inch tongs are a budget powerhouse built for big grills and bold cooks. With a full stainless steel body, heat resistance up to 500°F, and a secure pull-ring lock, these tongs deliver performance that punches far above their price point. They solve the universal griller’s dilemma: how to stay safe from flames without investing in high-end tools.

In testing, these tongs handled thick pork chops, corn on the cob, and even hot coals with zero bending or handle slippage. The non-slip silicone grips and thumb rest provided solid control, even with greasy hands, and the pull-ring lock made hanging and storage simple. They’re dishwasher-safe and resisted rust after repeated outdoor use. However, the finish shows scratches easily, and the locking mechanism can feel stiff over time. On delicate foods, the grip isn’t as refined as scalloped or silicone-tipped models.

Against the budget B07DBPL435 or the pricier Traeger, the Walfos strikes a sweet spot between reach, comfort, and affordability. They’re perfect for casual grillers, campers, or anyone needing a reliable long-reach tool without overspending. While they lack the premium feel of wood-handled tongs or the ergonomics of OXO, their overall balance and proven durability make them a smarter long-term buy than the no-name 17-inch competitor—offering better comfort and control than the bare-bones alternative.

Basic, budget, and built to work—these 17-inch tongs are the no-frills solution for occasional grillers who need reliable reach. With a brushed stainless steel body, 600°F heat resistance, and pull-ring locking system, they cover all essentials without extras. They’re designed to solve the fundamental problem of hand safety near flames, making them ideal for first-time buyers or backup tools.

In real use, they handled burgers, sausages, and veggies with solid stability and no bending, and the anti-slip handle strips kept grip secure even with wet hands. The 600°F rating means they won’t melt near flare-ups, and the dishwasher-safe build simplifies cleanup. However, the ergonomics are flat—no thumb rest or soft grip, leading to hand fatigue during long sessions. The locking mechanism works but feels less refined than Walfos or OXO versions.

Compared to the Walfos or Eddeas sets, this single tong offers less comfort and no bundle value, but still delivers core functionality. It’s best for spare use, camping, or as a starter tool for new grill owners. While it can’t match the comfort of OXO or the set value of Eddeas, its ultra-low price and proven heat resistance make it a more practical emergency pick than premium models—offering essential performance where cost matters most.

Comfort redefined—the OXO Good Grips 16-inch tongs are the gold standard in ergonomic design, built for cooks who grill for hours and demand hand-friendly performance. Featuring soft, non-slip grips and a built-in thumb rest, these tongs eliminate pressure points, solving the common issue of hand cramps during marathon BBQ sessions. The scalloped stainless steel edges provide a secure hold on meats and veggies, while the brushed finish resists smudges and corrosion.

In testing, these tongs excelled at tossing salads, flipping delicate fish, and handling large roasts with minimal effort. The 16-inch length kept hands safe from heat, and the smooth locking mechanism made storage easy in drawers or utensil holders. They’re dishwasher-safe and maintained their grip integrity after months of use. However, the rubberized grip can trap moisture if not dried properly, and the length isn’t ideal for deep smokers or tall grills.

Versus the Traeger or Walfos, the OXO prioritizes comfort over ruggedness, making it better for home kitchens and hybrid indoor-outdoor use. It’s ideal for frequent cooks, those with hand fatigue, or anyone valuing precision over raw reach. While it doesn’t match the XUDAKAIXIN’s distance or the Walfos’ value, its superior ergonomics and consistent grip make it a more comfortable daily driver than any all-metal alternative—balancing performance and care where others cut corners.

Two lengths, one smart package—the Eddeas 12” and 17” tongs deliver versatile value in a heat-ready duo. With 600°F heat resistance, non-slip silicone grips, and a pull-ring lock, this set solves the one-size-fits-all dilemma by giving you precision for small tasks and reach for big grills. Whether you’re flipping shrimp or pulling ribs, the dual-length strategy outshines single-tong purchases.

In real use, the 17-inch tong kept hands safe over open flames, while the 12-inch version was perfect for griddle work, air frying, or indoor searing. Both feature food-grade stainless steel and durable locking mechanisms, and they’re dishwasher-safe with no warping. The silicone grips stayed secure even with oily foods, though the finish shows fingerprints easily. The shorter tong lacks the scalloped grip of OXO, so delicate items need care.

Against single tongs or pricier sets, the Eddeas offers unmatched utility for the price, especially for households with multiple cooking styles. It’s perfect for families, meal preppers, or anyone who grills both indoors and out. While the individual tongs aren’t as premium as standalone models, their combined flexibility and heat resilience make them a more practical investment than buying separate tools—delivering broader use than the Walfos or budget 17-inch pick.