Char-Griller Portable Charcoal Grill
Charcoal Grills

Char-Griller Portable Charcoal Grill

4.6
Expert Rating

Versatile portable charcoal grill that doubles as an offset smoker attachment for ultimate flexibility.

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Reviewed by James WilsonNovember 28, 2025

Our Review

The Char-Griller E82424 Portable Charcoal Grill represents exceptional value through its innovative dual-purpose design. This unit functions as a standalone portable grill for camping and tailgating, while also serving as a side fire box attachment for compatible Char-Griller barrel smokers, transforming them into authentic Texas-style offset smokers. The heavy-duty steel construction immediately impresses with its solid feel and superior heat retention compared to thin-walled portable grills. The 250 square inch cooking surface provides enough space for 12 burgers, making it suitable for small gatherings despite its compact footprint. The cast iron grates create beautiful sear marks and distribute heat evenly across the cooking surface. The dual adjustable dampers provide precise airflow control, allowing you to dial in temperatures for both direct grilling and low-and-slow smoking. During our testing, we found temperature management intuitive and responsive. The Easy Dump ash pan is a standout feature—it slides out completely for quick cleanup without the mess typically associated with charcoal grills. When attached to a compatible barrel grill, the E82424 creates a true offset smoking setup that produces authentic smoke flavor and maintains consistent temperatures for hours.

Pros

  • Dual-purpose design: portable grill and smoker attachment
  • Heavy-duty steel construction for superior heat retention
  • 250 sq in cooking area accommodates 12 burgers
  • Dual adjustable dampers for precise temperature control
  • Easy Dump ash pan simplifies cleanup
  • Compatible with multiple Char-Griller barrel models

Cons

  • 36.9-pound weight heavier than ultra-light portable grills
  • Cover and accessories sold separately
  • Requires compatible Char-Griller model for offset smoking
  • Charcoal capacity limited for very long smoking sessions

Specifications

Brand
Char-Griller
Product Dimensions
21"D x 18"W x 20"H
Cooking Area
250 square inches
Fuel Type
Charcoal
Material
Heavy-duty alloy steel
Grate Material
Cast iron
Weight
36.9 pounds
Special Features
Dual dampers, Easy Dump ash pan, side fire box compatible
Compatible Models
5030, 5050, 5650, 2121, 2123, 2137, 2827, 2828

Our Testing Process

Testing spanned two months with evaluation in both standalone and side fire box configurations. We conducted portability tests transporting the grill to various locations and assessing setup time. Cooking tests included direct grilling of burgers, steaks, and vegetables, as well as offset smoking when attached to a barrel grill. Temperature control was evaluated using multiple thermometers, and we monitored charcoal consumption rates. The ash pan system was tested after each use for cleanup efficiency.

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