8 Best Grill Tongs of 2026

These Walfos 17-inch tongs are a game-changer for budget-savvy grillers who refuse to compromise on performance. With dual tongs included, heat resistance up to 500°F, and a secure pull-ring locking system, they tackle high-heat grilling with confidence. The non-slip silicone grips offer impressive control, preventing hand fatigue during long cookouts—perfect for flipping burgers, handling sausages, or serving buffet-style meals without fumbling.

In real-world use, the full stainless steel build resists warping and corrosion, even after repeated exposure to flames and grease. At 17 inches, they provide ample reach over large grills or campfire pits, keeping hands safely away from heat. The tongs maintain a firm grip on both delicate fish and thick steaks thanks to their textured jaw edges, though very slippery foods like oiled veggies can occasionally slide. They’re dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze—though hand washing preserves the grip coating longer.

Compared to premium single-packs like the BBQ-AID Pro or Traeger BAC790, these Walfos tongs deliver exceptional value through volume and functionality. While they lack wooden elegance or extreme heat resistance beyond 600°F, they outshine many in durability and ergonomics for the price. Ideal for families, tailgaters, or anyone who needs two reliable tongs without doubling the cost, they’re the smart choice for high-frequency grilling on a budget.

The Traeger BAC790 tongs stand out as a precision-engineered workhorse built for the serious backyard chef. At 16.5 inches long, they offer excellent heat clearance, while their solid stainless steel construction ensures long-term durability against warping and rust. The smooth locking mechanism snaps shut with authority, making storage compact and travel-ready—ideal for propane or pellet grill masters who demand reliability with every flip.

During testing, these tongs delivered consistent grip and control, even when maneuvering heavy rib racks or juicy pork shoulders. The scalloped jaw edges hold food securely without crushing, and the comfortable, slightly curved handle reduces wrist strain during extended use. They’re fully dishwasher safe, a rare win for high-end stainless tongs, and the integrated hanging loop makes garage or drawer organization effortless. However, their shorter length can be limiting on deep charcoal pits or large smokers, where extra reach becomes critical.

When stacked against the OXO Good Grips or Walfos models, the Traeger tongs trade slight ergonomics for sleek, professional-grade simplicity. They don’t have silicone padding or dual-pack value, but their build quality and brand-backed durability make them a top pick for purists. For grilling enthusiasts who want a no-nonsense, long-lasting tool that matches their Traeger setup, these deliver refined performance and seamless integration.

The BBQ-AID Pro 17-inch tongs are a masterclass in heat resilience and artisan design, combining medical-grade 304 stainless steel with elegant acacia wood handles for a grilling tool that performs and impresses. Capable of withstanding temperatures over 600°F, they’re ideal for searing steaks over open flames or managing flare-ups without fear of melting or warping—a serious advantage over plastic or silicone-coated rivals.

In practice, the solid metal core and wood handle combo provides excellent heat insulation, staying cool to the touch even after prolonged use. The smooth, contoured wood feels luxurious in hand and offers natural grip, though it may absorb oils over time if not wiped down. The tongs exert strong clamping force for thick cuts, and the 17-inch length offers solid clearance for most gas and charcoal grills. However, the lack of a locking mechanism makes storage less convenient than competitors like the Walfos or OXO models.

Compared to the Traeger BAC790 or OXO Good Grips, the BBQ-AID prioritizes heat resistance and aesthetic appeal over utility features. It doesn’t lock or hang, but it excels in extreme heat environments where other tongs might fail. Best suited for culinary-focused grillers who value performance under fire, these tongs offer premium durability and style—a standout for those who treat grilling like craftsmanship.

The GrillPro 40240 isn’t just a tong—it’s a two-in-one battlefield solution for grillers who hate clutter and love versatility. With a clever dual-head design, it functions as tongs, a spatula, or both, letting you flip burgers with precision or lift delicate fish without breakage. The 16-inch stainless steel body keeps hands safe from heat, while soft-grip rubber inserts ensure control during greasy maneuvers.

Real-world testing shows it shines when managing fragile or bulky foods—the turner side slides easily under salmon fillets, while the tongs grip chicken thighs securely. It works flawlessly on charcoal, gas, and smokers, and the manual lock folds it compactly for storage in tight grill carts. However, the spatula edge isn’t as wide as dedicated turners, and the tongs’ grip is weaker on very slippery items. Still, for campers, RV users, or small-space grillers, this multi-function advantage is unmatched.

Against the OXO or Traeger models, it trades pure tong performance for space-saving innovation. It’s not as ergonomic or strong as single-purpose tongs, but for those who value utility over specialization, it’s a genius tool. Perfect for minimalist setups or occasional grillers, it delivers smart functionality in one rugged body—a true Swiss Army knife of the grill.

The OXO Good Grips 16-inch tongs are an ergonomic triumph, engineered for comfort during marathon grilling sessions. Featuring soft, non-slip grips and a built-in thumb rest, they reduce hand fatigue significantly—making them ideal for flipping dozens of burgers or managing large roasts. The scalloped stainless steel jaws grip food firmly without puncturing, and the brushed steel body resists fingerprints and corrosion over time.

In action, these tongs offer smooth, responsive feedback with just the right amount of spring tension. The 16-inch length keeps hands safe on standard grills, and the locking mechanism snaps shut securely for drawer storage. They’re dishwasher safe and easy to clean, though the grip texture can trap grease if not rinsed promptly. While they don’t match the extreme heat resistance of the BBQ-AID Pro, they handle normal grilling temps with ease and are less prone to slippage than basic metal tongs.

Compared to the Traeger BAC790, the OXO model wins on comfort and control, though it lacks a hanging loop. Against the Walfos set, it’s pricier but offers superior ergonomics and build refinement. Best for home chefs who grill frequently and value hand comfort, these tongs deliver daily usability and long-term reliability—a top-tier blend of form and function.

Don’t let the ultra-low price tag fool you—these 17-inch budget tongs punch far above their weight, offering serious reach and heat resistance up to 600°F. Made from food-grade stainless steel, they resist rust and are safe for direct food contact, while the pull-ring locking system ensures controlled handling and easy storage. For occasional grillers or newcomers, they deliver core functionality without fluff.

In real use, they handle steaks, veggies, and kebabs reliably, with a firm grip that doesn’t crush. The anti-slip thumb rest adds control, though the grip is less cushioned than OXO or Traeger models. At 17 inches, they provide excellent reach over most grills, and being dishwasher safe makes cleanup effortless. However, the single tong offering means no backup, and the finish shows scratches quickly, giving it a worn look over time.

Pitted against the Walfos dual-pack, these lose on value but match in heat performance. Compared to the GrillPro combo tool, they’re less versatile but better as pure tongs. Ideal for budget-conscious buyers or spare-tool needs, they offer no-frills reliability—a solid entry-level pick that performs like a premium model.

These 19.5-inch wood-handled tongs are a statement piece for style-driven grillers, blending real walnut wood handles with premium stainless steel for a look and feel that elevates any barbecue. At nearly 20 inches long, they offer exceptional reach, perfect for deep smokers or large grills where safety and access are key. The heat-resistant core withstands temps over 600°F, while the wood stays cool—thanks to its natural insulating properties.

In testing, the wood provides a warm, secure grip that improves with use, though it requires occasional oiling to prevent drying. The pull-up locking ring doubles as a bottle opener, a clever touch that adds real-world utility during parties. The jaws grip firmly, but the mechanism has slightly less spring than metal-only models, requiring a bit more hand pressure. Still, for entertainers or gift-givers, the aesthetic and function combo is unmatched.

Compared to the Outset QB22, these offer similar length and wood quality but add the bottle opener feature. Against the BBQ-AID Pro, they match heat resistance but improve on storage with locking. Best for grill masters who value design and practical flair, they deliver luxury and utility in one bold package—a premium experience without the premium price.

The Outset QB22 tongs are built for maximum reach and serious grilling real estate, stretching a full 22 inches—the longest in the lineup. Crafted with stainless steel jaws and rosewood handles, they combine durability with heat insulation, keeping hands cool even during extended use over roaring charcoal beds. The locking mechanism keeps them compact for storage, a must for grillers with limited space.

In action, their extra length is a game-changer for large pits or offset smokers, allowing you to manage food across wide surfaces without leaning in. The rosewood handles absorb heat slowly, offering a comfortable grip, though they’re hand-wash only—a drawback for those who prefer dishwasher convenience. The 15.2 oz weight makes them feel substantial, but not fatiguing, and the smooth action ensures precise control. However, the lack of scalloped edges means they can slip on slick foods.

Versus the Wood-Handled 19.5-inch tongs, the Outset wins on reach and build, though it lacks a bottle opener. Compared to the GrillPro combo tool, it’s less versatile but superior as a dedicated long-reach tong. Ideal for serious BBQers with large grills or smokers, these deliver unmatched access and rugged performance—the ultimate reach extension for big cooks.