7 Best Wood Burning BBQ Grills of 2026

Many backyard cooks struggle to achieve authentic, smoky flavor and precise heat control with standard gas or charcoal grills, especially when hosting larger gatherings. The best wood burning BBQ grills solve this by offering adjustable cooking surfaces and high-heat wood-fired performance—like the TITAN GREAT OUTDOORS Santa Maria Grill’s flywheel-controlled grate and the Panovue 42 Inch Fire Pit’s 360° swivel and height adjustment for true versatility. Our top picks are based on in-depth analysis of user reviews, material quality, steel gauge, and real-world performance, prioritizing durability, cooking control, and value across hundreds of data points. Below are our recommended wood burning grills that deliver exceptional flavor, build quality, and multi-functional design for any outdoor space.

Top 7 Wood Burning Bbq Grill in the Market

Best For
Preview
Product
Best Budget 3-in-1 Functionality
Hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit
Best for Entertaining & Dining
OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit
Best Large-Capacity Table Use
Panovue 42 Inch Fire Pit
Best Heavy-Duty Portability
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Best Wood Burning Bbq Grill Review

Best Compact Design

Gbekery 32.5″ 3-in-1 Fire Pit

ADVANTAGES

Dual rotating grills
Compact 32.5” design
3-in-1 versatility
Quick assembly

LIMITATIONS

×
Smaller fire bowl
×
Shorter burn time

This compact powerhouse redefines backyard versatility with its dual 360° grills and seamless transformation from roaring fire pit to a full-sized patio table. The 32.5-inch diameter makes it perfect for small spaces without sacrificing functionality—ideal for urban patios or cozy backyard corners. What truly sets the Gbekery apart is its smart dual-grill system, letting you cook different foods at varying heights over the same fire, solving the common grilling dilemma of uneven heat distribution. It’s a space-saving marvel that answers the needs of those who want big performance in a streamlined package.

In real-world use, the heavy-duty steel construction holds up impressively, resisting warping even after repeated wood burns. The included charcoal pan and log rack enhance airflow and efficiency, making fire management easier than most models in this range. The spark screen and lid add a layer of safety, while the 20-minute assembly means you’re ready for weekend guests without hassle. That said, the smaller fire bowl limits burn time compared to larger competitors—don’t expect marathon fires without frequent log refills. It performs best in controlled, shorter sessions rather than all-night bonfires.

When stacked against the Panovue 42-inch model, the Gbekery sacrifices capacity for nimble convenience, making it a smarter pick for couples or small families. It doesn’t offer the same dining real estate as larger units, but its tight footprint and full feature set make it the go-to for those prioritizing compact design without compromise. For backyard hosts who value quick setup, clean transitions, and solid build, this model delivers more than its size suggests—offering a smarter balance of form and function than bulkier, pricier alternatives.

Best Budget 3-in-1 Functionality

Hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit

ADVANTAGES

Dual swivel grates
Charcoal pan included
Stable steel ring base
Budget-friendly

LIMITATIONS

×
Lid not flat for table use
×
No waterproof cover

If you’re hunting for maximum value without maxing out your budget, the Hykolity 35-inch fire pit is a budget-savvy standout that punches above its weight. Its dual cooking grates (18.5” and 15”) offer flexible grilling space, and the 360-degree swivel with built-in handles makes flame-side adjustments effortless—no more awkward poking or unstable lifts. The deep 24-inch fire bowl delivers a robust, even burn, while the charcoal pan and log rack give you dual fuel options, making it a rare budget model that doesn’t force compromises between wood-fired flavor and charcoal control.

During testing, the heavy-gauge steel proved resilient against rust and thermal stress, even after multiple wet-season uses. The fixed steel ring connecting the legs enhances stability on grass or gravel, a thoughtful upgrade over wobbly tripod-style designs. Cooking performance is solid—searing steaks or slow-roasting veggies works well thanks to the adjustable grate positioning. However, the lid doubles as a table but lacks a flat surface, making it less ideal for drinks or dining compared to dedicated tabletop models. It’s best suited for grilling-focused users who want warmth and function without frills.

Compared to the OutVue 36-inch model, the Hykolity trades a bit of elegance for raw practicality and affordability. It doesn’t have the same polished cut-out design or waterproof cover, but it includes nearly all essential accessories and backs them with a 1-year manufacturer warranty—a rarity at this price. For first-time buyers or casual grillers who want 3-in-1 functionality without overspending, this model offers the smartest entry point into wood-burning grilling, balancing cost, durability, and real-world usability better than most.

Best for Entertaining & Dining

OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit

OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit
Type
Wood Burning
Dimensions
36″ L x 36″ W x 28″ H
Fire Bowl Size
24″ x 24″ x 10″
Functions
Bonfire, BBQ, Table
Included Accessories
Grills, Lid, Cover, Poker
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

36-inch dining table
Adjustable swivel grills
Waterproof cover included
Stylish airflow design

LIMITATIONS

×
Hot handles during use
×
Slightly shorter table height

The OutVue 36-inch fire pit is engineered for entertaining, blending elegant design with social functionality to create a backyard centerpiece that’s as inviting as it is practical. Its height-adjustable, 360° swivel grills allow for precise cooking control, while the 36-inch tabletop surface comfortably seats 6–8 people—perfect for dinner parties or morning coffee circles. The geometric cut-out sides aren’t just stylish; they enhance airflow and cast captivating firelight shadows, turning every gathering into an atmospheric experience. For those who see their patio as an extension of their living room, this model delivers dining-ready appeal with grilling muscle.

In performance, the 20 lb wood capacity sustains a strong, consistent flame, and the powder-coated steel resists rust even after months of outdoor exposure. The spark screen vents provide essential safety, and the included waterproof cover ensures long-term protection—critical for year-round use. Assembly is straightforward, and the freely disassemblable grills make cleanup and storage a breeze. However, the grill handles can get extremely hot during prolonged use, requiring gloves or tools for safe adjustment—a small but notable oversight.

Pitted against the Panovue 42-inch, the OutVue is slightly smaller but more refined in aesthetic and user experience, striking a balance between form and function. It lacks the massive table size of the Panovue but excels in design cohesion and ease of use, making it ideal for hosts who prioritize style, safety, and seamless transitions from cookout to conversation. For those seeking a grill that doubles as a social hub, the OutVue offers superior entertainment value, delivering warmth, flavor, and visual flair in one thoughtfully crafted package.

Best Large-Capacity Table Use

Panovue 42 Inch Fire Pit

Panovue 42 Inch Fire Pit
Diameter
42 inch
Function
3 in 1
Grill Type
2 adjustable
Material
Metal
Use Case
Outdoor
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

42-inch dining table
25 lb wood capacity
Stable 4-leg design
Large swivel grills

LIMITATIONS

×
No waterproof cover
×
Bulky and less portable

When space, capacity, and group dining are top priorities, the Panovue 42-inch fire pit emerges as the undisputed champion of large-scale outdoor living. Its massive 42-inch tabletop comfortably seats 8–10 people, transforming your patio into a full outdoor dining room when the fire’s off. The 25 lb wood capacity fuels long, roaring fires, and the dual height-adjustable, 360° swivel grills offer serious cooking flexibility—perfect for hosting a crowd with varied menu needs. This is grill-as-furniture at its finest, designed for those who entertain often and want maximum utility from a single centerpiece.

Real-world testing confirms its heavy-duty stability, even on uneven ground, thanks to its four-leg design and substantial weight. The powder-coated steel resists chipping and rust, and the geometric cut-outs do more than look good—they boost airflow and flame strength for efficient burning. Cooking performance is excellent, with even heat distribution and safe ember containment. However, its size makes it less portable and harder to store, and the lack of a waterproof cover in the package is a surprising omission for a premium-priced model.

Compared to the OutVue, the Panovue is bigger, bolder, and built for grander gatherings, but it’s overkill for small yards or minimalist setups. It doesn’t include a cover, putting it behind OutVue in long-term protection, but its sheer table size and fire power make it the best choice for large families or frequent entertainers. For those who want a permanent, high-capacity outdoor hub that blends grilling, warmth, and dining, the Panovue delivers unmatched scale and presence, outperforming smaller models in entertainment potential and build confidence.

Best Overall

Backyard Discovery Santa Maria Grill

Backyard Discovery Santa Maria Grill
Grilling Surface
723 sq. in.
Grate Adjustment
2″ to 24″
Material
304 Stainless Steel
Fire Bricks
Refractory Ceramic
Warranty
5-year
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

723 sq in grilling area
5-year warranty
Adjustable stainless grates
Acacia wood prep table

LIMITATIONS

×
High price
×
Large footprint

This precision-engineered grilling beast isn’t just a fire pit—it’s a full-scale Argentine wood-fired command center built for purists who demand authentic, restaurant-grade results. The 723 square inch grilling surface and 2” to 24” adjustable grates give you laser-focused control over sear and smoke, while the 304 stainless steel brasero and fire bricks ensure consistent, radiant heat that rivals professional setups. Every detail—from the acacia wood prep table to the S-hooks for vertical roasting—is crafted for serious, slow-cooked mastery, making it the ultimate tool for Gaucho-style feasts and weekend culinary marathons.

In performance, the refractory fire bricks retain heat for hours, eliminating cold spots and enabling true low-and-slow cooking. The powder-coated 12-gauge steel withstands extreme temperatures without warping, and the BILT app-guided assembly simplifies what could be a daunting setup. Whether you’re roasting whole racks or smoking sausages vertically on the S-hooks, the airflow and heat retention are unmatched in the category. That said, it’s overkill for casual users—this is a dedicated grilling station, not a multipurpose fire pit, and its size and price demand serious commitment.

Against the TITAN Santa Maria grill, this model offers superior build, warranty (5-year vs none), and accessories, justifying its premium cost for enthusiasts. While the TITAN is more portable and doubles as a fire pit, the Backyard Discovery dominates in heat control, durability, and gourmet versatility. For the serious home chef or BBQ aficionado who wants pro-level flavor and craftsmanship, this grill is worth every penny, delivering unrivaled authenticity and performance that smaller, simpler models simply can’t match.

Best Value for Authentic Grilling

TITAN GREAT OUTDOORS Santa Maria Grill

TITAN GREAT OUTDOORS Santa Maria Grill
Fuel Type
Wood/Coal
Grate Adjustment
Flywheel-controlled
Included Cookware
Cast iron skillet
Construction Material
Powder-coated steel
Dual Function
Grill/Fire pit
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Flywheel height control
Cast iron skillet included
Doubles as fire pit
Cool-coil handles

LIMITATIONS

×
No cover included
×
Less premium finish

The TITAN Ash & Ember grill brings authentic Argentine grilling within reach without demanding a pro-level budget, making it the best value for traditional open-fire cooking. Its flywheel-controlled grate adjustment offers smooth, precise height changes, letting you sear over roaring flames or smoke low and slow with confidence. The thick powder-coated steel withstands intense heat, and the included cast iron skillet expands cooking options beyond grilling—think paella, grilled veggies, or even flatbreads. This is rustic performance with modern convenience, ideal for those who want real flame mastery without complexity.

In real use, the flywheel system works flawlessly, eliminating the need for manual lifting or unsafe adjustments. The side ash door makes cleanup fast, and the cool-touch handles enhance safety during long sessions. When grilling ends, removing the legs converts it into a ground-level fire pit—a clever dual-use feature most high-end models skip. However, the grill doesn’t include a cover, leaving it exposed to the elements unless purchased separately, which is a drawback for year-round outdoor placement.

Compared to the Backyard Discovery model, the TITAN sacrifices some premium materials and warranty length but delivers 80% of the performance at a fraction of the cost. It’s less of a permanent fixture and more of a versatile, movable grilling station—perfect for mid-tier enthusiasts who want authentic technique without investment overload. For those seeking a no-nonsense, durable Santa Maria grill that doubles as a fire pit and cooks like a pro, the TITAN offers exceptional bang for the buck, outperforming its price in functionality and build integrity.

Best Heavy-Duty Portability

28″ Large Outdoor Fire Pit

28
Type
Wood Burning
Diameter
28″
Weight
25 lbs
Grill Grate Size
21″
Included Accessories
Poker, Cover, Brush
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Wheels with brake
Cold-rolled steel
Rotating table
Built-in water drain

LIMITATIONS

×
Low table height
×
Table wobbles under load

Built for adventurers and mobile entertainers, this 28-inch fire pit stove stands out with its rare combination of heavy-duty build and true portability. The integrated wheels with parking brake make relocation effortless—whether you’re shifting from patio to deck or loading it into an RV—and the 25 lb cold-rolled steel ensures it won’t buckle under heat or travel. The 21-inch grill grate provides ample cooking space, and the 26-inch rotating table adds a clever dining function, making it one of the few models that truly bridges backyard and off-grid use.

Performance is solid: the deep fire bowl supports strong, sustained burns, and the spark guard and water drain enhance safety and cleanup. The included grill brush and fire hook complete a well-rounded kit, and the quick assembly means setup is painless. However, the rotating table feels less stable under heavy loads, and the overall height is lower than standard tables, making it less ergonomic for seated dining. It’s best used as a portable grill and fire source, not a primary dining table.

Against the Gbekery model, this pit trades some compact elegance for rugged mobility, prioritizing transport and durability over sleek design. It’s not as polished as higher-end models, but for campers, RV owners, or renters who need a durable, go-anywhere grill, it’s unmatched. With better wheels and a more robust frame than competitors, it delivers serious portability without sacrificing grilling power, making it the top pick for those who value movement and resilience in their outdoor gear.

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Wood Burning BBQ Grill Comparison

Product Grilling Style Grill Surface Area (approx.) Adjustable Grill Height Material Additional Features Fire Pit Functionality Table Functionality
Backyard Discovery Santa Maria Grill Santa Maria (Gaucho) 723 sq in Yes (2” to 24”) Stainless Steel, Powder-Coated Steel S-Hooks, Coal Shovel, Waterproof Cover, Acacia Wood Accents No No
TITAN GREAT OUTDOORS Santa Maria Grill Santa Maria (Argentine) Not specified Yes (Flywheel Control) Powder-Coated Steel Cast Iron Skillet, Flywheel Temperature Control Yes (removable legs) No
Hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit Standard Grill 18.5″ & 15″ Diameter Grates Yes (360° Swivel) Steel Log Rack, Charcoal Pan, Poker Yes Yes (with lid)
OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit Standard Grill Not specified Yes (Height Adjustable, 360° Swivel) Steel Geometric Cut-outs, Spark Protection, Waterproof Cover Yes Yes (with lid – 36″ diameter)
28″ Large Outdoor Fire Pit Standard Grill 21″ Grill Grate No Cold-Rolled Steel Rotating Table, Spark Protection, Wheels with Brake, Grill Brush, Dust Cover Yes Yes (26″ diameter)
Gbekery 32.5″ 3-in-1 Fire Pit Standard Grill Not specified Yes (360° Adjustable) Steel Spark Screen, Poker, Convertible Table Yes Yes (32.5″ diameter)
Panovue 42 Inch Fire Pit Standard Grill Not specified Yes (Height Adjustable, 360° Swivel) Steel Geometric Cut-outs, Spark Protection, Convertible Table Yes Yes (42″ diameter)

Testing & Analysis: Finding the Best Wood Burning BBQ Grill

Our recommendations for the best wood burning BBQ grill aren’t based on opinion, but rigorous data analysis and research. We evaluate options based on a multi-faceted approach, prioritizing user reviews from verified purchasers across major retailers (Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe’s) and dedicated BBQ forums. Sentiment analysis of these reviews helps us quantify satisfaction with key features like cooking control, durability, and ease of assembly.

We compare grill specifications – steel gauge, grate material (stainless steel vs. chrome), and adjustability mechanisms – to correlate these features with long-term performance and user feedback. Comparative analysis focuses on identifying trends; for example, linking thicker steel construction with fewer reports of warping or rust. We also analyze manufacturer specifications concerning heat retention and fuel efficiency, cross-referencing this with real-world user experiences.

While physical product testing isn’t always feasible for every model, we prioritize grills with published third-party testing data where available. We leverage expert reviews from reputable BBQ publications to validate our findings and ensure a comprehensive assessment of each wood burning grill’s performance and value. We consistently update our analyses to reflect new models and evolving user feedback in the BBQ grill market.

Choosing the Right Wood Burning BBQ Grill: A Buying Guide

Grill Size & Capacity

The size of the grill is a primary consideration, directly impacting how much food you can cook at once. Larger grills, like the Panovue 42 Inch Fire Pit, are ideal for entertaining larger groups (8-10 people) and offer more versatility with multiple cooking zones. Smaller options, such as the Hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit, are better suited for smaller families or limited patio space. Consider how often you host and the typical size of your gatherings. A larger capacity means more cooking surface, but also a larger footprint and potentially higher fuel consumption.

Adjustability & Cooking Control

A key feature differentiating wood-burning grills is the adjustability of the cooking grate. The TITAN GREAT OUTDOORS Santa Maria Grill boasts a flywheel for precise height control, letting you switch between searing and slow cooking. This is crucial for different types of food – high heat for steaks and burgers, lower heat for ribs or brisket. Grills with fixed grates offer less control, potentially leading to unevenly cooked food. Look for options with at least some height adjustment to maximize your cooking flexibility. The OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit also provides height-adjustable and 360° swivel grills, offering excellent control.

Material & Durability

Wood-burning grills are exposed to high temperatures and the elements, so durability is paramount. Most quality grills utilize steel construction, but the gauge (thickness) of the steel and the coating matter. Powder-coated steel, as found in the Backyard Discovery Santa Maria Grill and the 28″ Large Outdoor Fire Pit, provides excellent rust resistance and longevity. Consider the thickness of the steel; heavier-gauge steel will be more durable. The type of grate material also plays a role. Stainless steel, like in the Backyard Discovery model, is rust-resistant and easy to clean.

Additional Features

Beyond the core functionalities, several features can enhance your grilling experience.

  • 3-in-1 Functionality: Many models (Hykolity, OutVue, Panovue, 28″ Large Outdoor Fire Pit, Gbekery) offer a fire pit, grill, and table combination, increasing versatility.
  • Spark Protection: Screens and lids (found in many models) prevent embers from escaping, enhancing safety.
  • Accessories: Included tools like pokers (Hykolity, Panovue) and covers (OutVue, 28″ Large Outdoor Fire Pit) add convenience.
  • Portability: If you plan to move your grill, consider models like the 28″ Large Outdoor Fire Pit with wheels and a parking brake.
  • Assembly: Check assembly requirements. Some models (OutVue, Panovue) claim easy, 20-minute setups.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best wood burning BBQ grill depends on your individual needs and preferences. From the versatile 3-in-1 options to the traditional Santa Maria styles, there’s a grill to suit any outdoor cooking enthusiast. Carefully consider factors like grill size, adjustability, and material durability to ensure a satisfying and long-lasting investment.

With a wide range of choices available, researching user reviews and comparing specifications is key to finding the perfect fit. Prioritizing features like adjustable grates and rust-resistant materials will maximize your grilling experience and ensure years of delicious meals and cozy fire pit nights.