9 Best Kettle Grills of 2026

The SnS Grills MasterKettle isn’t just a grill—it’s a game-changing outdoor kitchen for both weekend warriors and seasoned pitmasters. With its patented Slow ‘N Sear Deluxe insert, this 22-inch powerhouse transforms into a true dual-zone cooking machine, enabling searing-hot direct heat on one side and low-and-slow smoking on the other. The EasySpin 22” grate is nothing short of genius, letting you rotate food seamlessly between zones without lifting or flipping—perfect for managing delicate proteins or maintaining even smoke distribution. If you’ve ever struggled with temperature control or cluttered prep space, this grill solves both with surgical precision.

In real-world use, the built-in temperature gauge, probe port, and smoke hole deliver competition-level accuracy, letting you monitor conditions without losing heat or smoke. The 5-vent no-touch ash removal system makes post-grill cleanup feel like a luxury—no scraping, no mess, just a quick dump. Whether you’re smoking brisket for 12 hours or searing steaks for a quick dinner, the porcelain enamel construction holds heat like a vault, while the integrated prep table keeps tools, rubs, and platters within arm’s reach. That said, the weight and footprint make it less ideal for frequent movers or tight patios—it’s built for permanence, not portability.

Compared to the Weber Original Kettle, the SnS MasterKettle is in a different league—more feature-rich, more versatile, and built for serious grilling evolution. While the Weber excels in simplicity, this model is for those ready to graduate from basic BBQ to masterful smoke and sear. It’s the only kettle that feels like a full outdoor grill station, blending innovation with rugged durability. For the price, it delivers far more capability than any other 22-inch charcoal grill, making it the definitive best overall choice for grilling enthusiasts who want it all.

The Weber Original Kettle remains the gold standard in charcoal grilling—a no-nonsense, battle-tested workhorse that delivers flawless performance with minimal fuss. Its porcelain-enameled lid and bowl are engineered to retain heat like a forge, ensuring consistent temps even in breeze or rain, while the hinged cooking grate makes mid-grill charcoal top-ups a breeze. The One-Touch cleaning system is a revelation—just twist the dial and ash funnels neatly into the high-capacity catcher, eliminating the need for scraping or poking. For purists who want maximum flavor with minimal complexity, this grill is pure grilling poetry.

Out in the backyard, it handles everything from quick weeknight burgers to 8-hour pork shoulders with unwavering reliability. The built-in lid hook keeps the lid off the ground and blocks wind, while the adjustable dampers give precise control over airflow—critical for managing flare-ups or dialing in smoke. With space for 13 burgers (using a Weber press), it’s ideal for small to mid-sized gatherings. However, it lacks side tables or storage, so you’ll need a separate prep surface. While it doesn’t offer advanced features like integrated thermometers or dual zones, it nails the fundamentals better than any budget model.

Against the Grill Boss or Char-Griller, the Weber dominates in durability and heat consistency—its thicker steel and superior enamel resist rust and chipping for years. It’s not the most feature-packed, but for those who value long-term reliability over bells and whistles, it’s unmatched. When compared to the GRiliFE or KEYO models, it delivers better temperature stability and build quality, even without extra shelves or spin grates. It’s the smart choice for buyers who want premium performance without overpaying for unnecessary extras.

The Grill Boss 22-inch Kettle is a surprisingly capable budget warrior, packing essential features into an affordable frame without cutting corners on usability. Its 22-inch cooking surface and elevated warming rack let you grill burgers and toast buns simultaneously—perfect for feeding a crowd fast. The built-in thermometer and dual adjustable vents offer real precision for temperature control, a rarity at this price, while the porcelain-coated steel lid holds heat better than most entry-level grills. If you’re tired of inconsistent temps and flimsy construction, this model delivers solid performance where it counts.

In practice, it shines for backyard cookouts and tailgating, where portability and ease of cleanup matter most. The two sturdy wheels make repositioning painless, and the slide-in ash catcher reduces post-grill mess significantly. It handles direct grilling and light smoking with confidence, though it struggles to maintain low temps for extended smoking sessions. The bottom wire shelf is a game-changer—finally, a place to set tongs, plates, or seasoning without cluttering nearby tables. While it won’t match Weber’s heat retention, it overdelivers for under $100.

Stacked against the 18-inch portable model, the Grill Boss offers far more cooking space and stability, making it better for families or regular use. It’s not as refined as the Weber or SnS, but for first-time buyers or casual grillers, it’s the best value with wheels and shelf. It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of premium models, but it solves the core problems of space, heat control, and cleanup better than most budget options. For those upgrading from a mini grill, it’s a no-brainer leap forward in performance and convenience.

The GRiliFE 22-inch Premium Charcoal Grill is a space-maximizing marvel, boasting over 500 square inches of double-decker cooking area—the largest in this lineup. This means you can feed 15+ guests at once, making it ideal for large family gatherings or party hosts who hate batch cooking. The two-tier grilling system lets you sear steaks below while keeping sides warm above, and the adjustable damper blades give solid airflow control for managing heat. With a built-in thermometer and easy-dump ash bucket, it balances functionality and convenience in a sleek, no-frills package.

In real-world testing, it excels at high-volume grilling, but its thin steel construction means it loses heat faster in wind or cold compared to Weber or SnS models. The wheels are functional but not rugged, so rolling over uneven terrain requires caution. It handles direct grilling and light smoking well, but don’t expect competition-level temperature stability. Still, for the sheer amount of food it can cook at once, it’s unmatched in value. The ash bucket system is intuitive, though not as smooth as Weber’s One-Touch.

Compared to the Grill Boss, it offers double the cooking space but sacrifices some durability and portability. Against the Char-Griller, it wins on capacity but not on build quality. It’s not the most premium-feeling grill, but for big eaters and frequent entertainers, it’s the best large cooking area option. It delivers more grilling real estate than any other model at this price, making it a top pick for those who prioritize capacity over compactness.

The Char-Griller 22-inch Kettle strikes a rare balance between affordability and performance, earning its title as the best budget performance option. With 363 square inches of cooking space, it’s spacious enough for weekend feasts, and the porcelain-coated lid and body provide solid heat retention—a step above basic steel grills. The adjustable top and bottom dampers give real control over airflow, allowing for true low-and-slow smoking, not just grilling. And the EasyDumpTM ash pan and bucket make cleanup effortless, a feature usually reserved for pricier models.

In testing, it holds steady temps for smoking ribs or chicken, thanks to its well-sealed bowl and responsive vents. The steel construction is rugged, surviving repeated use without warping. It’s not as polished as Weber, but it performs like a premium grill at half the cost. The lack of wheels or side shelves is a drawback for portability, but the sturdy build compensates. It’s perfect for beginners who want to explore smoking without investing in high-end gear.

Versus the Grill Boss, it offers better heat control and smoking capability, though less convenience storage. Compared to the 18-inch portable, it’s larger and more powerful, but less mobile. For those stepping up from a basic grill, it’s the ideal bridge between entry-level and pro-grade. It doesn’t have the flash of SnS or GRiliFE, but it delivers serious grilling power where it matters most.

The Weber Master-Touch is the ultimate evolution of the classic kettle, combining proven reliability with thoughtful upgrades that elevate the grilling experience. Its standout feature—the Tuck-Away lid holder—is a small detail with massive real-world impact, letting you slide the lid sideways instead of setting it on the ground, keeping it clean and blocking wind. The One-Touch cleaning system remains unmatched, swiftly sweeping ash into a removable catcher with a simple twist. With hinged cooking grate and Gourmet BBQ System compatibility, it’s built for serious cooks who want flexibility.

In action, it maintains temperature like a furnace, thanks to thick porcelain-enameled steel that resists rust and retains heat. The three swiveling damper blades offer granular airflow control, essential for smoking or searing. It handles everything from pizza to pulled pork with ease. The tool hooks and warming rack add practicality, though the lack of a side table means prep space is still limited. It’s heavier than some, but the rubber-molded wheels roll smoothly over grass or patio.

Next to the Original Kettle, the Master-Touch adds convenience without sacrificing purity—it’s the same great grill, but smarter. Compared to the SnS MasterKettle, it’s less feature-rich but more focused, ideal for those who want premium performance without complexity. It’s not the most innovative, but it refines the classic formula to perfection. For grilling traditionalists who want the best of both worlds—simplicity and smart design—it’s the clear winner.

The KEYO 22.5-inch Kettle Grill is a stylish, portable powerhouse that brings premium design to the mobile griller. Its glossy enamel coating isn’t just for looks—it withstands temperatures up to 1000°F, resisting scratches and corrosion like a high-end appliance. The one-click cleaning system is slick: just pull the lever and ash drops into a windproof collector, making post-tailgate cleanup a breeze. With 348 sq. in. of cooking space, it fits up to 16 burgers, and the rust-proof thermometer and one-handed vent give precise temperature control—critical for competition-style grilling on the go.

In real use, it’s lightweight yet stable, fitting easily in a car trunk for camping or beach trips. The walnut side table is a rare luxury in portable grills—perfect for sauces, tools, or plates. It heats up fast and holds temp well, though not as consistently as Weber in windy conditions. The quick-assembly design means you’re grilling in minutes, not hours. It’s not built for daily heavy-duty use, but for weekend adventurers who want elegance and ease, it’s unmatched.

Against the 18-inch portable, it’s larger, better built, and more feature-rich, justifying the higher price. Compared to the Grill Boss, it’s more refined and portable, though less rugged. It’s the best portable premium design—not the cheapest, but the most polished. For those who value aesthetics, convenience, and performance in one sleek package, it’s the top-tier pick for on-the-move grilling.

The Weber Jumbo Joe is the most compact 22-inch Weber, making it the best compact Weber option for small spaces or minimalist grilling. Don’t let the size fool you—this grill packs Weber’s legendary durability into a tighter footprint, with porcelain-enameled steel that resists rust and holds heat impressively. The angled lid hook keeps the lid off the ground and blocks wind, while the aluminum ash catcher ensures clean, corrosion-resistant disposal. With space for 13 burgers, it’s perfect for couples or small families who want Weber quality without the bulk.

In practice, it heats evenly and controls well, thanks to rust-resistant aluminum dampers that offer smooth airflow adjustment. The all-weather wheels make it easy to move around patios or decks, though it lacks a side shelf. It’s not designed for large parties, but for weeknight dinners or balcony grilling, it’s ideal. The plated steel cooking grate is durable, though not as robust as cast iron. It’s the smallest Weber kettle, so compromises exist—but none on core performance.

Compared to the Original Kettle, it’s more compact but less versatile—no hinged grate or One-Touch system. Against the Master-Touch, it’s simpler and lighter, but missing key conveniences. It’s not the most feature-rich, but for urban dwellers or Weber fans with limited space, it’s the perfect balance of brand trust and portability. It delivers authentic Weber grilling in a space-smart package, making it the best choice for small-space precision.

The 18-inch Portable Charcoal Grill is a budget-savvy, ultra-mobile solution for grilling on the move, earning its title as the best budget portable. At just $40, it delivers surprising stability and performance, thanks to its upgraded 4-leg design and thickened bowl—a major improvement over flimsy mini grills. The adjustable air vent gives real control over heat, and the built-in wire rack offers handy storage for tools or charcoal. With space for 12 burgers, it’s perfect for couples, campers, or tailgaters who need quick, hot grilling without the bulk.

In real use, it sets up fast, requires minimal cleanup, and fits in car trunks effortlessly. The one-touch cleaning system works well for light ash, though it’s not as efficient as Weber’s. It heats up quickly and performs admirably for direct grilling, but struggles with low-and-slow smoking due to limited airflow control and insulation. The US-based support is a rare perk—getting replacement parts is easy, which extends its lifespan.

Against other portables, it’s cheaper and more stable than most, though not as durable as the KEYO or Weber. It’s not meant for daily use, but for sporadic grilling or backup duty, it’s unbeatable. For first-time buyers or gift-givers, it offers maximum value for minimal cost. It doesn’t have the power of larger kettles, but it delivers real grilling fun where others cut corners.