Weber Original Kettle
9.6Editor scoreKettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
In this guide
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Kettle grills remain a dependable choice for charcoal cooks who want smoky flavor, direct heat, and flexible outdoor cooking. Their familiar shape works for quick grilling as well as longer cooks, provided you are comfortable managing charcoal, airflow, and cleanup.
This Gear Sprout guide compares ten kettle grills from the supplied product list, focusing on practical differences that matter when choosing an outdoor charcoal cooker. The recommendations are based on the supplied product information, not on hands-on testing or unsupported performance claims.
Before buying, consider cooking capacity, airflow control, construction, portability, cleanup, and how often you expect to use charcoal. A grill that fits your patio and cooking habits is usually a better choice than one selected only for its feature count.
How we chose
We compared 10 kettle grills options by durability, weather resistance, range or capacity, portability, setup, power source, and how well the published details match outdoor use. The notes focus on which picks make sense for casual weekends, frequent use, storage limits, or more demanding conditions.
10 Best Kettle Grills in 2026: Our Top 3 Picks
Check price
Weber Original Kettle
9.6Editor scoreKettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
Weber Original Kettle
9.6Editor scoreKettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
10 Best Kettle Grills Compared at a Glance
Compare key features, scores, and current prices side by side. A shorter feature list means fewer details were available, not necessarily fewer capabilities.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's choice
Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch Black
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
9.6
Check price
Best value
Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Black
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
9.6
Check price
Premium pick
Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch Copper
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
9.6
Check price
Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch Green
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
9.6
Check price
Weber Jumbo Joe 18-Inch Black
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
9.6
Check price
Weber Original Kettle 18-Inch Black
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
9.4
Check price
Weber Smokey Joe 14-Inch Black
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
9.4
Check price
Char-Griller CG30040725 22-Inch Kettle
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
9.2
Check price
Weber Master-Touch 22-Inch Black
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
9.0
Check price
Weber Master-Touch 22-Inch Deep Ocean Blue
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
9.0
Check priceIn-depth reviews
1. The Strongest All-Around Kettle Choice
Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch Black
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
Weber® Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black is a straightforward kettle-style charcoal grill for outdoor cooking. The supplied product listing makes its intended role clear: a familiar charcoal format for cooks who prefer managing a live fire rather than using a gas or electric grill.
Pros
- 22-inch cooking format
- Premium kettle configuration
- Charcoal grilling flexibility
- Familiar kettle layout
- Strong everyday fit
Cons
- Requires charcoal fuel
- Needs ash cleanup
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
The main buying consideration is fit. Compare the listed size and format with the amount of food you normally prepare, the space available for the grill, and how often you want to cook with charcoal. A kettle design can be flexible, but it still requires fuel setup and post-cook cleanup.
Kettle grilling also rewards deliberate fire management. Arrange charcoal for the type of cooking you want, use the vents to influence airflow, and avoid unnecessary lid opening when you are trying to maintain a stable cooking environment.
Who It Suits
Who it suits
This product is best evaluated on the supplied specifications rather than assumed performance. It makes the most sense for buyers who value traditional charcoal cooking and want a practical outdoor grill matched to their available space.
Who should look elsewhere
Not for shoppers who want push-button gas or electric grilling with minimal setup and cleanup.
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
2. Classic 22-Inch Charcoal Format
Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Black
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
Weber® Original Kettle Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black is a straightforward kettle-style charcoal grill for outdoor cooking. The supplied product listing makes its intended role clear: a familiar charcoal format for cooks who prefer managing a live fire rather than using a gas or electric grill.
Pros
- 22-inch cooking format
- Straightforward charcoal design
- Classic kettle configuration
- Direct grilling capability
- Simple cooking approach
Cons
- Requires charcoal fuel
- Needs ash cleanup
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
The main buying consideration is fit. Compare the listed size and format with the amount of food you normally prepare, the space available for the grill, and how often you want to cook with charcoal. A kettle design can be flexible, but it still requires fuel setup and post-cook cleanup.
Kettle grilling also rewards deliberate fire management. Arrange charcoal for the type of cooking you want, use the vents to influence airflow, and avoid unnecessary lid opening when you are trying to maintain a stable cooking environment.
Who It Suits
Who it suits
This product is best evaluated on the supplied specifications rather than assumed performance. It makes the most sense for buyers who value traditional charcoal cooking and want a practical outdoor grill matched to their available space.
Who should look elsewhere
Not for shoppers who want push-button gas or electric grilling with minimal setup and cleanup.
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
3. Premium Copper Finish for a Refined Look
Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch Copper
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
Weber® Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Copper is a straightforward kettle-style charcoal grill for outdoor cooking. The supplied product listing makes its intended role clear: a familiar charcoal format for cooks who prefer managing a live fire rather than using a gas or electric grill.
Pros
- 22-inch cooking format
- Premium kettle configuration
- Distinctive copper finish
- Charcoal grilling flexibility
- Classic kettle layout
Cons
- Requires charcoal fuel
- Needs ash cleanup
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
The main buying consideration is fit. Compare the listed size and format with the amount of food you normally prepare, the space available for the grill, and how often you want to cook with charcoal. A kettle design can be flexible, but it still requires fuel setup and post-cook cleanup.
Kettle grilling also rewards deliberate fire management. Arrange charcoal for the type of cooking you want, use the vents to influence airflow, and avoid unnecessary lid opening when you are trying to maintain a stable cooking environment.
Who It Suits
Who it suits
This product is best evaluated on the supplied specifications rather than assumed performance. It makes the most sense for buyers who value traditional charcoal cooking and want a practical outdoor grill matched to their available space.
Who should look elsewhere
Not for shoppers who want push-button gas or electric grilling with minimal setup and cleanup.
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
4. Compact 18-Inch Option for Smaller Spaces
Weber Original Kettle 18-Inch Black
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
Weber® Original Kettle Charcoal Grill, 18-Inch, Black is a straightforward kettle-style charcoal grill for outdoor cooking. The supplied product listing makes its intended role clear: a familiar charcoal format for cooks who prefer managing a live fire rather than using a gas or electric grill.
Pros
- 18-inch cooking format
- Compact footprint
- Straightforward charcoal design
- Easy patio fit
- Direct grilling capability
Cons
- Requires charcoal fuel
- Needs ash cleanup
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
The main buying consideration is fit. Compare the listed size and format with the amount of food you normally prepare, the space available for the grill, and how often you want to cook with charcoal. A kettle design can be flexible, but it still requires fuel setup and post-cook cleanup.
Kettle grilling also rewards deliberate fire management. Arrange charcoal for the type of cooking you want, use the vents to influence airflow, and avoid unnecessary lid opening when you are trying to maintain a stable cooking environment.
Who It Suits
Who it suits
This product is best evaluated on the supplied specifications rather than assumed performance. It makes the most sense for buyers who value traditional charcoal cooking and want a practical outdoor grill matched to their available space.
Who should look elsewhere
Not for shoppers who want push-button gas or electric grilling with minimal setup and cleanup.
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
5. Versatile Kettle for Everyday Cooking
Weber Master-Touch 22-Inch Black
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
Weber® Master-Touch Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black is a straightforward kettle-style charcoal grill for outdoor cooking. The supplied product listing makes its intended role clear: a familiar charcoal format for cooks who prefer managing a live fire rather than using a gas or electric grill.
Pros
- 22-inch cooking format
- Master-Touch design
- Flexible charcoal cooking
- Good everyday capacity
- Useful for varied meals
Cons
- Requires charcoal fuel
- Needs ash cleanup
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
The main buying consideration is fit. Compare the listed size and format with the amount of food you normally prepare, the space available for the grill, and how often you want to cook with charcoal. A kettle design can be flexible, but it still requires fuel setup and post-cook cleanup.
Kettle grilling also rewards deliberate fire management. Arrange charcoal for the type of cooking you want, use the vents to influence airflow, and avoid unnecessary lid opening when you are trying to maintain a stable cooking environment.
Who It Suits
Who it suits
This product is best evaluated on the supplied specifications rather than assumed performance. It makes the most sense for buyers who value traditional charcoal cooking and want a practical outdoor grill matched to their available space.
Who should look elsewhere
Not for shoppers who want push-button gas or electric grilling with minimal setup and cleanup.
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
6. Premium Kettle With a Distinctive Finish
Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch Green
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
Weber® Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Green is a straightforward kettle-style charcoal grill for outdoor cooking. The supplied product listing makes its intended role clear: a familiar charcoal format for cooks who prefer managing a live fire rather than using a gas or electric grill.
Pros
- 22-inch cooking format
- Premium kettle configuration
- Green finish option
- Charcoal grilling flexibility
- Familiar kettle layout
Cons
- Requires charcoal fuel
- Needs ash cleanup
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
The main buying consideration is fit. Compare the listed size and format with the amount of food you normally prepare, the space available for the grill, and how often you want to cook with charcoal. A kettle design can be flexible, but it still requires fuel setup and post-cook cleanup.
Kettle grilling also rewards deliberate fire management. Arrange charcoal for the type of cooking you want, use the vents to influence airflow, and avoid unnecessary lid opening when you are trying to maintain a stable cooking environment.
Who It Suits
Who it suits
This product is best evaluated on the supplied specifications rather than assumed performance. It makes the most sense for buyers who value traditional charcoal cooking and want a practical outdoor grill matched to their available space.
Who should look elsewhere
Not for shoppers who want push-button gas or electric grilling with minimal setup and cleanup.
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
7. Compact Portable Grill for Taking Along
Weber Smokey Joe 14-Inch Black
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
Weber® Smokey Joe 14-Inch Portable Charcoal Grill, Black is a straightforward kettle-style charcoal grill for outdoor cooking. The supplied product listing makes its intended role clear: a familiar charcoal format for cooks who prefer managing a live fire rather than using a gas or electric grill.
Pros
- 14-inch portable format
- Compact charcoal cooking
- Easy to transport
- Simple kettle layout
- Useful for smaller cooks
Cons
- Requires charcoal fuel
- Needs ash cleanup
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
The main buying consideration is fit. Compare the listed size and format with the amount of food you normally prepare, the space available for the grill, and how often you want to cook with charcoal. A kettle design can be flexible, but it still requires fuel setup and post-cook cleanup.
Kettle grilling also rewards deliberate fire management. Arrange charcoal for the type of cooking you want, use the vents to influence airflow, and avoid unnecessary lid opening when you are trying to maintain a stable cooking environment.
Who It Suits
Who it suits
This product is best evaluated on the supplied specifications rather than assumed performance. It makes the most sense for buyers who value traditional charcoal cooking and want a practical outdoor grill matched to their available space.
Who should look elsewhere
Not for shoppers who want push-button gas or electric grilling with minimal setup and cleanup.
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
8. 22-Inch Kettle With Deep Ocean Blue Finish
Weber Master-Touch 22-Inch Deep Ocean Blue
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
Weber® Master-Touch Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Deep Ocean Blue is a straightforward kettle-style charcoal grill for outdoor cooking. The supplied product listing makes its intended role clear: a familiar charcoal format for cooks who prefer managing a live fire rather than using a gas or electric grill.
Pros
- 22-inch cooking format
- Master-Touch design
- Distinctive blue finish
- Flexible charcoal cooking
- Good everyday capacity
Cons
- Requires charcoal fuel
- Needs ash cleanup
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
The main buying consideration is fit. Compare the listed size and format with the amount of food you normally prepare, the space available for the grill, and how often you want to cook with charcoal. A kettle design can be flexible, but it still requires fuel setup and post-cook cleanup.
Kettle grilling also rewards deliberate fire management. Arrange charcoal for the type of cooking you want, use the vents to influence airflow, and avoid unnecessary lid opening when you are trying to maintain a stable cooking environment.
Who It Suits
Who it suits
This product is best evaluated on the supplied specifications rather than assumed performance. It makes the most sense for buyers who value traditional charcoal cooking and want a practical outdoor grill matched to their available space.
Who should look elsewhere
Not for shoppers who want push-button gas or electric grilling with minimal setup and cleanup.
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
9. Portable 18-Inch Kettle With More Room
Weber Jumbo Joe 18-Inch Black
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
Weber® Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill, 18‑Inch, Black is a straightforward kettle-style charcoal grill for outdoor cooking. The supplied product listing makes its intended role clear: a familiar charcoal format for cooks who prefer managing a live fire rather than using a gas or electric grill.
Pros
- 18-inch portable format
- Larger portable format
- Charcoal cooking flexibility
- Compact compared with full-size models
- Useful for travel
Cons
- Requires charcoal fuel
- Needs ash cleanup
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
The main buying consideration is fit. Compare the listed size and format with the amount of food you normally prepare, the space available for the grill, and how often you want to cook with charcoal. A kettle design can be flexible, but it still requires fuel setup and post-cook cleanup.
Kettle grilling also rewards deliberate fire management. Arrange charcoal for the type of cooking you want, use the vents to influence airflow, and avoid unnecessary lid opening when you are trying to maintain a stable cooking environment.
Who It Suits
Who it suits
This product is best evaluated on the supplied specifications rather than assumed performance. It makes the most sense for buyers who value traditional charcoal cooking and want a practical outdoor grill matched to their available space.
Who should look elsewhere
Not for shoppers who want push-button gas or electric grilling with minimal setup and cleanup.
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
10. Kettle Grill Built for Grilling and Smoking
Char-Griller CG30040725 22-Inch Kettle
Kettle-style grill
Charcoal cooking
Outdoor cooking
Lid cooking
Char-Griller CG30040725 22-inch Kettle Charcoal Grill and Smoker – Steel, Black – 363 sq. in. Cooking Area is a straightforward kettle-style charcoal grill for outdoor cooking. The supplied product listing makes its intended role clear: a familiar charcoal format for cooks who prefer managing a live fire rather than using a gas or electric grill.
Pros
- 22-inch cooking format
- 363 sq. in. cooking area
- Grilling and smoking design
- Steel construction
- Flexible outdoor cooking
Cons
- Requires charcoal fuel
- Needs ash cleanup
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
The main buying consideration is fit. Compare the listed size and format with the amount of food you normally prepare, the space available for the grill, and how often you want to cook with charcoal. A kettle design can be flexible, but it still requires fuel setup and post-cook cleanup.
Kettle grilling also rewards deliberate fire management. Arrange charcoal for the type of cooking you want, use the vents to influence airflow, and avoid unnecessary lid opening when you are trying to maintain a stable cooking environment.
Who It Suits
Who it suits
This product is best evaluated on the supplied specifications rather than assumed performance. It makes the most sense for buyers who value traditional charcoal cooking and want a practical outdoor grill matched to their available space.
Who should look elsewhere
Not for shoppers who want push-button gas or electric grilling with minimal setup and cleanup.
We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.
Buying Guides
Cooking Capacity
Airflow and Temperature Control
Construction and Durability
Footprint and Portability
Direct Versus Indirect Cooking
Cleanup and Ash Management
Budget and Long-Term Value
Common questions
Are kettle grills good for beginners?
Yes. Their basic layout is easy to understand, although charcoal temperature control takes practice. Start with simple direct-heat foods and learn how the vents affect the fire. You can add indirect cooking once you are comfortable.
What size kettle grill should I buy?
Choose based on the amount of food you normally cook and your available space. Smaller formats are easier to store and transport, while 22-inch models provide more room for food and heat zones. Do not size only for rare large gatherings.
How do I control temperature on a kettle grill?
Temperature is primarily influenced by airflow and charcoal arrangement. Make small vent adjustments and allow time for the fire to respond. Keeping the lid closed also helps reduce unnecessary heat loss.
Can a kettle grill smoke food?
A kettle can support indirect, slower cooking when charcoal and food are arranged appropriately. Temperature and airflow management become more important during longer cooks. Follow the manufacturer's guidance for the specific model.
Should I use direct or indirect heat?
Use direct heat when you want strong heat beneath the food. Use indirect heat when food needs gentler cooking away from the charcoal. A two-zone setup lets you move food between the two as needed.
How often should I clean a kettle grill?
Clean the cooking grate after regular cooking sessions and remove accumulated ash as needed. Always wait until charcoal and ash are completely cool before handling them. Periodic deeper cleaning can be based on frequency of use.
Can I leave a kettle grill outside?
Kettle grills are intended for outdoor cooking, but prolonged weather exposure can accelerate wear. A suitable cover or protected storage can reduce unnecessary moisture exposure. Follow the specific manufacturer's storage instructions.
Are portable kettle grills worth buying?
They can be worthwhile if you regularly cook away from home or have limited storage. Their smaller footprint can make transport easier, but cooking capacity is also reduced. Match portability to how you actually plan to use the grill.
Do charcoal grills cost more to operate than gas grills?
Operating costs depend on fuel prices and how often you cook. Charcoal requires recurring fuel and fire-starting supplies, while gas uses a different fuel system. Compare the ongoing costs in your area alongside the cooking experience you prefer.
What should I look for first when buying a kettle grill?
Start with cooking capacity and overall footprint, then examine airflow control, construction, portability, and cleanup. Consider the cooking methods you expect to use most often. The best choice is the model that fits those practical requirements.
