10 Best Charcoal Grills in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Chef
Need a grill that can handle the heat? Look no further than charcoal grills! Compared to your standard gas and electric grills, charcoal grills are easy to set up and can reach higher cooking temperatures. With these, you get enough heat to cook your food without spending money on gas and electricity.
You don't even need to be a master griller to understand how they work! But choosing the right one can be a little bit tricky—but we want to make things simpler. In this article, you'll find a buying guide, fact-checked by professional chef Philjim Gerald Sebastian, along with our top recommendations for the best charcoal grills to buy in the Philippines.
Quick List - Top Charcoal Grills
Chef Philjim Gerald Sebastian is a professional chef with almost 11 years of experience in South East Asian, Western, Mexican, French, and Mediterranean Cuisines. His journey to becoming a chef started in the Philippines, and through his years of experience in different countries like the UAE, Seychelles Island, and parts of Asia like Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand, he honed his craft and gained different ranks in the kitchen. Chef Philjim is a graduate of De la Salle College of Saint Benilde (BS-HRIM). To add to all of his experiences, he is also a sole chef in a private sailing yacht traveling from the USA to the Caribbean islands where he is in charge of provisioning, stocking, budgeting, and cooking international cuisine for high-rank and well-known guests.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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Why Should You Get a Charcoal Grill?
Most Filipinos are familiar with the classic ihawan, also known as charcoal grills. A charcoal grill is versatile, and you can use it to cook anything, from barbecue and steak to veggies and fruits. It also comes in many shapes and sizes and is more affordable than other types of grills on the market.
To use this kind of grill, you'll have to burn either lumps or briquettes of charcoal. As more oils and flavors drip from the meat to the charcoal, it makes that sizzling sound, a sign that it's begun vaporizing all of that essence back into the food. So when people say that cooking with a charcoal grill makes food taste better, they aren't lying!
It also adds texture to the food and gives it a slightly smoky flavor that most people love. At first, it may seem daunting since you won't have complete control over its temperature. But it brings a lot to the table with its usability and affordability. Indeed, buying a charcoal grill is an excellent investment that can last for a long time!
How to Choose a Charcoal Grill - Buying Guide
Here are some key points to consider:
- Pick the type of charcoal grill that best suits your needs
- Choose the size according to the available space
- Select your preferred grill grate material
- Go for a grill that has a steel, aluminum, or cast iron body for durability
- For better temperature control, get a grill with a lid
- Take note of its additional features
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Pick the Type of Charcoal Grill That Best Suits Your Needs
Of all the charcoal grills available on the market, there are three main types—portable, kettle, and barrel. Each kind has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choose one that matches your needs the best.
Portable Charcoal Grills Are Perfect for Outdoor Trips
Portable charcoal grills are the best choice for those who have limited outdoor space. They're typically round or rectangular—and they're compact enough to be placed on top of any surface, with most having collapsible legs to keep them in place. Since they aren't too heavy, they're the perfect companion to bring on camping and beach trips as well as picnics.
Kettle Charcoal Grills Are Great for Everyday Use
Kettle charcoal grills are ideal for everyday use and for those who enjoy grilling for themselves or small groups of people. Compared to barrel grills, kettle grills have a smaller cooking surface, are square or spherical, and often come with a lid.
The lids in kettle grills are often removable, which gives people the option for covered and uncovered cooking. Though they aren't as mobile as portable charcoal grills, they usually have wheeled legs, making them easy to move around.
Barrel Charcoal Grills Let You Cook Multiple Food at Once
Barrel charcoal grills are perfect for master grillers and individuals who always host backyard BBQ parties. This type of grill typically has a barrel-shaped design cut lengthwise, with the bottom half serving as a cooking area and the top half serving as a lid.
Barrel grills have a much larger cooking area, so you can grill many portions of meat at a time. They are also great for smoking and slow cooking. Like kettle grills, they have wheeled legs that lock into place. However, they tend to be costly and take up more outdoor space.
Choose the Size According to the Available Space
If you already know the type of charcoal grill that you want to get, the next thing to consider is its size. You can start by looking at how much outdoor cooking space you have. Once you've determined that, take into account how often you plan to use the grill.
If you're the type to frequently host barbecue parties or serve large groups of people, we recommend getting the biggest charcoal grill possible. For these situations, you want to make sure that you have enough cooking area, and a larger-sized grill will allow you to prepare multiple things at once.
However, if you prefer cooking for yourself or your family or friends, a small, portable charcoal grill would suffice. Getting a more compact grill makes it easier to store and helps you save on space.
Select Your Preferred Grill Grate Material
When choosing a charcoal grill, the grill grates are also an important factor to consider. These grates will be in direct contact with your food and may affect the quality of your meat, fruit, or vegetable. The most common materials used for grill grates are stainless steel and cast iron.
Among the two types, stainless steel heats up fast and is more common due to its affordability. And it is more lightweight, which means that it is easy to lift and move when you want to add more coals. Also, some steel grill grates are chrome-plated to increase their heat retention properties and durability.
On the other hand, cast-iron grates retain heat better and produce a more even cooking temperature. They are very durable when properly maintained and can make excellent sear marks. But they cost more, are heavier than stainless steel, and require seasoning to be non-stick.
Go for a Grill That Has a Steel, Aluminum, or Cast Iron Body for Durability
Aside from checking the grill grates, another important aspect to consider is the body. It must be durable enough to withstand constant heat and exposure to the elements. That is why most charcoal grills have bodies made of heavy-duty steel, aluminum, or cast iron. Some are even coated with porcelain, enamel, or ceramic for added durability.
All these materials are highly resistant to rust and corrosion. However, when it comes to heat resistance and strength, steel and cast iron take the upper hand. But in terms of overall weight and heating and cooling capabilities, aluminum is lighter and regulates the temperature quickly and evenly.
For Better Temperature Control, Get a Grill With a Lid
Controlling the temperature of a charcoal grill can be tricky, so we recommend buying one with a lid that has vents and dampers for better temperature regulation. A lid will especially come in handy if you're still new to grilling.
For instance, it's important to cover the grill when roasting meat to achieve an even cook on all sides. And without a cover, the coals can get extremely hot, which is similar to cooking over a fire pit.
Take Note of Its Additional Features
Before purchasing a charcoal grill, we recommend taking note of any additional features such as built-in thermometers, side doors, folding shelves, and cleaning systems. These features may not seem like much, but they add value to the grill and make cooking time more efficient.
Folding shelves offer more storage space, while built-in thermometers help you regulate the temperature of the grill. Meanwhile, side doors provide easier access to the coals in case you want to add more charcoal briquettes. Another great feature to look for is an ash catcher, which can cut down on cleaning time.
10 Best Charcoal Grills to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Details | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type | Grill Grates Material | Grill Body Material | With Lid | Dimensions | ||||
1 | Homer Charcoal Grill｜HOMKY1813D |  | Barrel | Stainless Steel | Steel | 87 x 71 x 103 cm | ||
2 | Everdure CUBE Portable Charcoal Grill |  | Portable | Stainless Steel | Steel | 42.5 x 34.7 x 23 cm | ||
3 | Homer Portable Luxury Kettle Grill｜HOMKY22014HE |  | Kettle | Stainless Steel | Steel | 39.5 x 39.5 x 47.5 cm | ||
4 | Naturehike Desktop Camping Barbecue Grill |  | Portable | Stainless Steel | Steel | 50.2 x 32.8 x 33.5 cm | ||
5 | Westinghouse Deluxe Cart Charcoal Grill｜WH625CK2518 |  | Barrel | Stainless Steel | Steel | 25 in | ||
6 | Naturehike Multifunctional Vertical Grill |  | Portable | Stainless Steel | Steel | 62 x 29 x 73 cm | ||
7 | Mountainhiker Hexagonal Portable Grill |  | Portable | Stainless Steel | Steel | 53 x 23 x 24 cm | ||
8 | Homer Mini Half Barrel Charcoal Grill｜HOMKY1816 |  | Barrel | Stainless Steel | Steel | 49 x 31 x 42 cm | ||
9 | Homefix Kettle Charcoal Grill |  | Kettle | Stainless Steel | Steel | 17 in | ||
10 | Homefix Table Top Charcoal Grill |  | Portable | Stainless Steel | Steel | 14 in | ||
HomerCharcoal Grill ｜ HOMKY1813D
Spacious Cooking and Easy Cleanup for Backyard Gatherings
- Creates a spacious cooking area for family barbecues and outdoor gatherings
- Comes in a removable design that makes assembly and cleaning easier
- Offers precision heat control for more even cooking results
- Includes a foldable side table for holding plates, food, or tools
- Aids for easier moving with built-in wheels
Reviews mention:
Most buyers find it easy to set up and reliable for basic backyard barbecues. Regular grillers remark that the large cooking area handles family-size meals without constant shifting. Some people appreciate its straightforward design and lack of complicated parts.
| Type | Barrel |
|---|---|
| Grill Grates Material | Stainless Steel |
| Grill Body Material | Steel |
| With Lid | |
| Dimensions | 87 x 71 x 103 cm |
EverdureCUBE Portable Charcoal Grill
Compact Prep-and-Grill Convenience for Outdoor Trips
- Delivers compact charcoal grilling for travel, camping, and impromptu cookouts
- Uses an integrated food-storage tray for ingredients and utensils
- Integrates a bamboo prep and serving board for cleaner outdoor setup
- Utilizes a removable charcoal tray to simplify cleanup
- Offers insulated handles and safety latches for safer handling on the go
Reviews mention:
Plenty of cooks highlight how quickly it heats up and stays hot without needing much fuel. A lot of people cite it fits well in tiny backyards, balconies, and patios. A few mention the vent controls make it easy to manage flames without overshooting.
| Type | Portable |
|---|---|
| Grill Grates Material | Stainless Steel |
| Grill Body Material | Steel |
| With Lid | |
| Dimensions | 42.5 x 34.7 x 23 cm |
HomerPortable Luxury Kettle Grill ｜ HOMKY22014HE
Better Heat Control for Small Family Cookouts
- Retains heat better for small outdoor meals, care of kettle-style body
- Produces even results and smoky flavor with its lid-down feature
- Offers airflow control to help manage heat while grilling
- Includes an ash catcher for simpler post-cook cleanup
- Supports easier grilling mobility with wheeled construction
Reviews mention:
Many customers find the heat spreads evenly so kebabs cook without charring. Some remark how it’s easy to move and store between cookouts. Others appreciate the simple, no-frills design that works well for casual outdoor grilling.
| Type | Kettle |
|---|---|
| Grill Grates Material | Stainless Steel |
| Grill Body Material | Steel |
| With Lid | |
| Dimensions | 39.5 x 39.5 x 47.5 cm |
NaturehikeDesktop Camping Barbecue Grill
Foldable Tabletop Cooking for Group Campsites
- Comes in a foldable tabletop format for campsite grilling
- Provides a large cooking area that can serve 4 to 8 people
- Uses a smooth enamel charcoal basin for easier cleaning
- Supports stronger airflow around the fire for more active burning
- Folds down to a compact size for simpler trunk storage
Reviews mention:
Regular campers find it convenient for tight camping sites and small tables. Users state it takes up very little space yet still handles basic grilling. Several reviewers are fond of the foldable design and how quickly it unfolds and collapses.
| Type | Portable |
|---|---|
| Grill Grates Material | Stainless Steel |
| Grill Body Material | Steel |
| With Lid | |
| Dimensions | 50.2 x 32.8 x 33.5 cm |
WestinghouseDeluxe Cart Charcoal Grill ｜ WH625CK2518
Large Cooking Space With Handy Side Storage
- Uses a large 575 sq. in. cooking area with warming rack support
- Integrates an adjustable charcoal tray with crank for heat control
- Includes a slide-out ash pan for cleaner maintenance
- Offers two side shelves with utensil storage for easier prep
- Adds a built-in thermometer for more confident temperature monitoring
Reviews mention:
Numerous home cooks appreciate the cart setup because it gives more workspace for prep and plating. Few reviewers like how it rolls easily around yards and patios. Customers highlight the large cooking area and how it handles multiple dishes at once.
| Type | Barrel |
|---|---|
| Grill Grates Material | Stainless Steel |
| Grill Body Material | Steel |
| With Lid | |
| Dimensions | 25 in |
NaturehikeMultifunctional Vertical Grill
Smoke-Reducing Vertical Cooking for Tighter Outdoor Spaces
- Cooks variety of foods vertically for outdoor setups with less smoke around the grill area
- Supplies a generous grilling surface for meat and vegetables
- Keeps the cooking zone close and efficient for skewers and small portions
- Offers a multifunctional design and simple metal construction for flexible outdoor use
Reviews mention:
Plenty of reviewers find the vertical layout saves a lot of floor space in small homes. Many buyers comment it works well for small‑scale grilling like snacks and skewers. Some say the design makes it easier to store safely between uses.
| Type | Portable |
|---|---|
| Grill Grates Material | Stainless Steel |
| Grill Body Material | Steel |
| With Lid | |
| Dimensions | 62 x 29 x 73 cm |
MountainhikerHexagonal Portable Grill
Foldable Hexagonal Build for Easy Campfire-Style Grilling
- Comes in a hexagonal format for portable grilling in camp
- Contains foldable legs for more stable setup and easier storage
- Offers a high-capacity design suitable for full-size meats and sides
- Supports dual-use outdoor cooking as a grill and fire-pit-style setup
- Uses a stainless steel build for sturdier outdoor performance
Reviews mention:
Most users praise how much they can cook at once for camping trips and parties. Shoppers remark the legs stay steady even on uneven ground. Buyers highlight the generous size while still being foldable enough to carry.
| Type | Portable |
|---|---|
| Grill Grates Material | Stainless Steel |
| Grill Body Material | Steel |
| With Lid | |
| Dimensions | 53 x 23 x 24 cm |
HomerMini Half Barrel Charcoal Grill ｜ HOMKY1816
Durable Small-Format Grilling for Quick Outdoor Meals
- Yields a small but durable charcoal grilling fire for outdoor meals
- Provides a food-grade cooking grid for safer food contact
- Uses a high-temperature finish for better durability during regular grilling
- Assembles and cleans easier for both casual and beginner users
- Keeps the format compact for portable outdoor use
Reviews mention:
Many campers find it great for quick, small-scale grilling without needing a huge setup. People value the half-barrel shape, saying it helps contain smoke and heat. Plenty of users appreciate how easy it is to clean and store after use.
| Type | Barrel |
|---|---|
| Grill Grates Material | Stainless Steel |
| Grill Body Material | Steel |
| With Lid | |
| Dimensions | 49 x 31 x 42 cm |
HomefixKettle Charcoal Grill
Classic Kettle Cooking With Easier Heat Control
- Uses a 17-inch kettle format suited for family cooking
- Includes an enamel-coated bowl and lid for better heat retention
- Uses air vents to help control cooking temperature
- Comes with an ash catcher for cleaner disposal after grilling
- Supports easier transport with wheels
Reviews mention:
A number of purchasers find it straightforward to use for everyday grilling and simple holidays. Most customers notice the heat distribution is even enough for both meats and veggies. Some appreciate the no-frills design that feels familiar and reliable.
| Type | Kettle |
|---|---|
| Grill Grates Material | Stainless Steel |
| Grill Body Material | Steel |
| With Lid | |
| Dimensions | 17 in |
HomefixTable Top Charcoal Grill
Space-Saving Grilling for Picnics and Compact Setups
- Fits picnics and camping trips with its compact tabletop build
- Provides portable charcoal cooking in a space-saving format
- Allows grilling a variety of foods for casual outdoor meals
- Offers a practical value-focused option for simple outdoor use
- Suits small setups easily, where space is limited
Reviews mention:
Many small home owners find it perfect for small apartments and tiny outdoor spaces. Some buyers mention the tabletop size makes it easy to bring out and put away. Other buyers highlight how handy it is for quick weekday barbecues and light snacks.
| Type | Portable |
|---|---|
| Grill Grates Material | Stainless Steel |
| Grill Body Material | Steel |
| With Lid | |
| Dimensions | 14 in |
Expert's Comment About the Top 10 Products
Tip: Remember to preheat the grates of the grill! This makes a huge difference on both the flavor and appearance of the food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Is Smoking With a Charcoal Grill Possible?
Yes, it is possible to smoke meat with a charcoal grill! To start, place charcoal bricks and a few wood chunks on one side of the grill and an aluminum pan on the other. Then, place some lighted charcoal bricks on top of the unlighted bricks and chunks. Next, fill up the pan with 1/3 of water—you can also use apple juice or beer for extra flavor.
Put the grate and lid back on and close the vent, leaving 1/4 of an inch of opening. Wait for the grill to heat up to 107-121°C (225-250°F). Use a grill brush to scrape off the ash from the grates, then place your meat on top. Leave it for a few hours, and voilà—you've got yourself some smoked meat!
Is Charcoal Grilling Healthy?
Unfortunately, grilling isn't the healthiest cooking method. When the fat from the meat comes into contact with heated charcoal, they produce carcinogens, carbon monoxide, and other harmful compounds, which may be detrimental to one's health.
For healthier grilling, experts from Harvard and The University of Texas recommend grilling marinated meat, fish, fruits, and veggies instead of raw red meat or processed meat. It's also important to spread the coals evenly, oil the grill grates, and add a layer of foil on top to prevent charring. And to avoid getting sick when grilling food with charcoal, do it in a well-ventilated area.
When to Add Charcoal to Grill?
It's best to add charcoal before grilling the food. We suggest heating the charcoal bricks for 10-20 minutes to keep the temperate consistent throughout the grilling process. Another way to check if your charcoal briquettes are ready is if they are covered in white ash.
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How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
