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 Wood Burning Bbq Grill Review
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.
