Finding the best tabletop charcoal grills changed how our team cooks outdoors. After three months of testing 10 portable charcoal grills across camping trips, beach picnics, and backyard cookouts, I can say with confidence: a compact charcoal grill delivers smoky flavor that gas and electric units simply cannot match.
The best tabletop charcoal grills range from budget picks under $40 to premium ceramic cookers approaching $500. Our testing focused on real-world scenarios: setting up in a sedan trunk, grilling for two to six people, and cleaning ash on surfaces that can’t get stained. We weighed each model, timed the assembly, and measured actual cooking area.
Whether you need a portable charcoal grill for camping, a kettle grill for tailgating, or a hibachi-style option for apartment balconies, this guide covers it. I pulled insights from Reddit users who own these grills long-term, ran hands-on burn tests, and compared cleaning methods side by side. Every recommendation below earned its spot on this list.
By the end, you’ll know which tabletop charcoal grill fits your space, budget, and cooking style for 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Tabletop Charcoal Grills
Weber Jumbo Joe 18-Inch
- 240 sq in cooking area
- Tuck-N-Carry lid lock
- 18.5-inch plated steel grate
Kamado Joe Joe Jr 13.5-Inch
- Ceramic construction
- Lifetime warranty
- Exceptional heat retention
Best Tabletop Charcoal Grills in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Weber Smokey Joe 14-Inch |
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| Weber Jumbo Joe 18-Inch |
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 Weber Go-Anywhere |
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 Royal Gourmet CD1519 |
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 Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler |
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 Feasto Portable Tabletop |
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 Cuisinart 14-Inch Portable |
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 Napoleon Legend 14-Inch |
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 MAISON HUIS Small |
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| Kamado Joe Joe Jr |
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1. Weber Jumbo Joe 18-Inch – Editor’s Choice for Best Portable Charcoal Kettle Grill
Weber® Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill, 18‑Inch, Black
240 sq in grate
18.5 inch plated steel
Tuck-N-Carry lid lock
18 lbs
Pros
- Largest cooking area in test at 240 sq in
- Porcelain-enameled bowl resists rust
- Tuck-N-Carry lid lock for transport
- Aluminum dampers control airflow
Cons
- Heavier at 18 lbs than compact models
- Required assembly adds setup time
Our team cooked 12 burgers, 8 brats, and two full chicken halves on the Weber Jumbo Joe during a Saturday tailgate. The 240 square inch cooking grate handled everything without crowding. The 18.5-inch plated steel grate retained heat beautifully and left solid sear marks on steaks. After four hours of use, the porcelain-enameled bowl showed no scorching or rust spots.
Setup took about 12 minutes from box to first charcoal pour. The aluminum dampers on the bottom let me dial in temperature without lifting the lid, which kept heat steady during long cooks. Reddit users consistently praise this model as the sweet spot between the smaller Smokey Joe and a full-size Weber kettle.
The Tuck-N-Carry lid lock is more useful than I expected. It holds the lid in place during one-handed transport from car to tailgate spot. One owner on r/grilling mentioned carrying it through a parking lot without spilling ash, which matched my experience.
Where the Jumbo Joe falls short is weight. At 18 pounds, it’s noticeably heavier than the Smokey Joe or Cuisinart models. If you’re hiking to a campsite, this isn’t the grill. For car camping, tailgating, or backyard use, the size-to-weight tradeoff makes sense. You get 70% more cooking area than the 14-inch Smokey Joe for a modest weight penalty.
Who it’s best for
Families or groups of 4 to 6 people who want real charcoal flavor and enough surface area to cook full meals. Anyone hosting tailgates, backyard cookouts, or car camping trips where car trunk space allows 18 pounds.
Who should skip it
Solo backpackers, ultralight hikers, or anyone who needs to carry the grill more than 50 yards from the car. The 18-pound weight becomes a burden on foot.
2. Cuisinart 14-Inch Portable Charcoal Grill – Best Value Under $40
Cuisinart Charcoal Grill, Portable Tabletop Design, Locking Lid, 14″
196 sq in chrome grate
Only 4 lbs
Three lid locks
Dual vents
Pros
- Lightest grill tested at 4 lbs
- 196 sq in cooks for 4-6 people
- Three lid locks prevent spills
- Dual vents allow airflow control
Cons
- Thinner metal than premium models
- 90-day warranty only
The Cuisinart 14-Inch surprised me. At 4 pounds, it feels almost like a toy in the box. But after two camping trips and a beach day, I treated it like a real grill and it delivered. I cooked 8 burgers in one round and the chrome-plated grate cleaned up with a single wipe.
With over 20,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4.3-star average, this is the most-reviewed portable charcoal grill on the market. Owners on Reddit mention using it for years. One user said they bought one in 2017 and it still works fine after dozens of trips.
The three lid locks solve the ash-leakage problem that plagues cheaper grills. I drove 45 minutes with hot coals inside and not a speck of ash escaped. That’s the kind of practical design detail that matters in real-world use.
The enamel-coated firebox and ash base make cleanup simple. I dumped cold ash into a trash bag and wiped the inside with a damp cloth. Total time: under 5 minutes. The 196 square inch cooking area fits 4 to 6 people comfortably.
Who it’s best for
Budget shoppers, first-time grill buyers, and anyone needing a lightweight backup grill. Apartment dwellers with small balconies will appreciate the compact footprint.
Who should skip it
Those who cook frequently and want a 10-year warranty. Heavy users will burn through the thinner metal and limited 90-day warranty within a few years.
3. Kamado Joe Joe Jr 13.5-Inch – Premium Pick for Ceramic Heat Retention
Kamado Joe Joe Jr 13.5-inch Portable Ceramic Charcoal Grill with Grill Stand, Stainless Steel Cooking Grate, Heat Deflectors and Ash Tool in Red, Model KJ13RH
13.5 inch ceramic shell
304 stainless grate
Cast iron air vent
75.6 lbs
Pros
- Ceramic construction locks in moisture
- Lifetime warranty on ceramics
- Cast iron vent for precision
- Excellent heat retention at any temp
Cons
- Heaviest grill at 75.6 lbs
- Premium price point
- Not Prime eligible
The Kamado Joe Joe Jr is in a different category from the other grills on this list. Ceramic construction changes everything about how a charcoal grill performs. I held 225 degrees for 6 hours using less charcoal than the Weber models burn in 90 minutes. Low-and-slow cooking on this grill rivals full-size smokers.
The 304 stainless steel cooking grate is built to last. After searing steaks at 700 degrees and smoking ribs at 250, the grate showed no warping or discoloration. Reddit owners report 5+ years of regular use without issues.
Heat deflectors turn this grill into a smoker. I cooked a whole chicken using indirect heat and the skin came out crispy while the meat stayed juicy. Few portable charcoal grills can match this dual capability.
The weight is the real tradeoff. At 75.6 pounds, the Joe Jr barely qualifies as portable. I moved it from garage to patio on a hand truck. For tailgating or camping, you’d need an SUV or truck bed. This is a stay-at-home portable grill, not a hike-in model.
Who it’s best for
Serious outdoor cooks who want smoker-quality results in a compact form. Homeowners with a small patio who don’t want a full-size grill. Anyone who values heat retention and moisture lock above all else.
Who should skip it
Anyone who needs to actually carry the grill more than a few feet. Casual grillers won’t justify the premium price tag for capabilities they won’t use.
4. Weber Smokey Joe 14-Inch – Compact Kettle for Small Gatherings
Weber® Smokey Joe 14-Inch Portable Charcoal Grill, Black
14 inch grate
8.4 lbs alloy steel
Tuck-N-Carry lock
Ash catcher
Pros
- Weber build quality at 8.4 lbs
- Porcelain-enamel finish resists scratches
- Famous Tuck-N-Carry lid lock
- Ash catcher protects surfaces
Cons
- Smaller cooking area limits group size
- Required assembly
The Weber Smokey Joe 14-inch is the original portable charcoal kettle grill. I tested it on a 3-day camping trip and it performed exactly as expected: solid heat retention, easy setup, and Weber’s signature porcelain-enameled finish that shrugs off scratches.
At 8.4 pounds, it’s light enough to carry one-handed from car to campsite. The Tuck-N-Carry lid lock doubles as a handle holder and a lid holder, which keeps the lid off the ground when you flip it open to add charcoal.
The ash catcher is a small but meaningful feature. I set the grill directly on a picnic table without a heat pad and the surface underneath stayed cool. For apartment balcony use, this protects wood and composite surfaces.
Where the Smokey Joe struggles is cooking capacity. The 14-inch grate fits about 6 burgers made with a Weber burger press. For two people, that’s plenty. For four hungry adults, you’ll cook in batches.
Who it’s best for
Couples and small families who want Weber reliability without the Jumbo Joe’s bulk. Apartment dwellers with limited storage space. Campers who count every pound.
Who should skip it
Anyone regularly cooking for more than 4 people. The 14-inch grate becomes the bottleneck.
5. Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill – Rectangular Design for Trunk Storage
Weber® Go‑Anywhere Portable Charcoal Grill
160 sq in grate
14 lbs metal
2-piece grate
Char-rail insert
Pros
- Rectangular shape fits sedan trunks
- 2-piece grate allows charcoal addition
- Char-rail insert for indirect cooking
- Lightweight 14 lb design
Cons
- Smaller cooking area than kettles
- Required assembly
The Weber Go-Anywhere solved a problem I didn’t realize I had: trunk space. The rectangular shape slides into a sedan trunk without forcing me to fold down seats. After the Jumbo Joe, this became my go-to for spontaneous cookouts.
The 160 square inch cooking area handles 2 to 4 people comfortably. I cooked breakfast sausages, burgers, and veggies in one session without crowding. The 2-piece cooking grate lets you lift half the grate to add more charcoal mid-cook, which extends burn time without losing heat.
The char-rail insert enables indirect cooking. I placed coals on one side and a whole chicken on the other, achieving slow-roasted results. Few portable grills at this size offer that flexibility.
Reddit users consistently praise this model for road trips. One owner mentioned driving 3,000 miles with the Go-Anywhere in the trunk without it shifting or opening. The lid latches securely.
Who it’s best for
Road trippers and car campers who need trunk-friendly dimensions. Anyone cooking for 2 to 4 people who values space efficiency over maximum cooking area.
Who should skip it
Those who prioritize cooking surface above all else. The rectangular shape limits how much you can fit in a single round grate pattern.
6. Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler – Heavy-Duty Cast Iron Tabletop Grill
Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler Portable Charcoal Grill with 218 sq. in. Cooking Area in Black
218 sq in grate
48.5 lbs cast iron
Adjustable charcoal tray
Temp gauge
Pros
- Thick cast iron grates for sear marks
- Height-adjustable charcoal tray
- Professional temp gauge with glow accents
- Heavy-duty steel construction
Cons
- Heaviest portable at 48.5 lbs
- Higher price point
- Limited stock availability
The Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler feels like a full-size grill shrunk down. The cast iron grates weigh more than some entire portable grills, but they deliver restaurant-quality sear marks. After testing, the steakhouse-grade crust on a ribeye rivaled what I get from my $800 home grill.
The height-adjustable charcoal tray is the standout feature. I lowered it for high-heat searing and raised it for low-and-slow ribs. This kind of control is rare in portable charcoal grills.
The professional temperature gauge with glow-in-the-dark accents proved useful during evening cooks. I monitored internal temp without lifting the lid, which held heat steady. The 218 square inch cooking area fits 6 burgers, 6 steaks, or 12 brats.
At 48.5 pounds, the Rambler barely qualifies as portable. I needed two hands and a flat surface to move it. This is a “roll it from garage to patio” grill, not a “carry it to the beach” grill.
Who it’s best for
Homeowners who want cast iron performance in a smaller footprint. Serious grillers willing to sacrifice portability for cooking quality. RV owners with storage space.
Who should skip it
Anyone needing true portability. The 48.5-pound weight rules out most camping and tailgating scenarios.
7. Royal Gourmet CD1519 – Large Cooking Area With Warming Rack
Royal Gourmet CD1519 Portable Charcoal Grill with Warming Rack, 303 Sq. In.
303 sq in total
25.4 lbs
Front access door
Built-in thermometer
Pros
- 303 sq in cooking area with warming rack
- Front charcoal access door
- Removable ash tray
- 3-level adjustable fire grates
Cons
- Heavier at 25.4 pounds
- Assembly takes time
- Some users report confusing instructions
The Royal Gourmet CD1519 packs the largest cooking area on this list at 303 square inches total. That’s 265 square inches of main grate plus an 88 square inch warming rack. During a family cookout, I kept burgers warm on the upper rack while searing steaks below.
The front charcoal access door is a thoughtful feature. I added fresh coals mid-cook without lifting the lid or losing heat. Most portable charcoal grills force you to remove the entire grate.
Two air dampers control temperature precisely. Combined with the 3-level adjustable fire grates, I maintained consistent heat across long cooks. The built-in thermometer eliminates guesswork.
The 25.4-pound weight makes this a “drive-up” portable grill rather than a hike-in model. For backyard patios, beach parking lots, or tailgate spots, the size pays off. The removable ash tray cleans up in under 3 minutes.
Who it’s best for
Families cooking for 6+ people. Anyone wanting warming rack functionality in a portable form. Hosts who entertain outdoors regularly.
Who should skip it
Solo campers or anyone with limited trunk space. The dimensions (27.76 x 18.58 x 19.21 inches) require planning.
8. Napoleon Legend 14-Inch – Versatile Charcoal Basket Design
Napoleon Legend 14-Inch Portable Charcoal Kettle Grill, Black, Chrome-Plated Cooking Grid
150 sq in grate
10 lbs alloy steel
Dual-section charcoal basket
10-year warranty
Pros
- Dual-section charcoal basket for direct/indirect cooking
- Adjustable air vents
- Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl
- Locking lid with Easy Carry handle
Cons
- Assembly instructions unclear
- Smaller cooking area than competitors
The Napoleon Legend 14-inch stands out for its dual-section charcoal basket. I split the basket for sear-and-roast cooking: hot coals on one side, indirect heat on the other. This is grilling versatility usually reserved for full-size kamado-style units.
At 10 pounds, the Legend is lighter than most kettle grills while offering similar cooking flexibility. The 14-inch cooking surface fits 4 to 5 burgers. The porcelain-enameled lid and bowl promise years of rust-free use.
The 10-year limited warranty is rare at this price point. Napoleon covers defects that cheaper grills simply wouldn’t.
Where the Legend underperforms is assembly. Multiple reviewers mentioned unclear instructions and unlabeled hardware. Budget 30 minutes for setup, and have a second person help.
Who it’s best for
Grillers who want direct/indirect cooking zones in a portable form. Buyers who value long warranties. Anyone already familiar with Napoleon products.
Who should skip it
First-time grill buyers who need clear assembly guidance. Those wanting maximum cooking area for the price.
9. Feasto Portable Tabletop Charcoal Grill – Two-Tier Design With Cast Iron
Feasto Portable Tabletop Charcoal Grill, 354 sq.in Cooking Area
354 sq in total
26 lbs alloy steel
Two-tier cast iron
Adjustable tray
Pros
- 354 sq in total cooking area
- Cast iron grate for even heat
- Adjustable charcoal tray
- Separable ash pan for cleaning
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- 26 lbs limits true portability
The Feasto Portable Tabletop surprised me with its 354 square inch total cooking area, the largest on this list. The two-tier design splits cooking between 265.5 square inches of grilling space and 88 square inches of warming area. I cooked 16 burgers in a single batch during testing.
The cast iron grill grate distributes heat evenly across the surface. I noticed fewer hot spots compared to plated steel grates. The charcoal tray adjusts between two levels for temperature control without lifting the lid.
The separable ash pan simplified cleanup. I detached the pan, dumped ash, and wiped it clean in under 4 minutes. The built-in thermometer helped maintain consistent cooking temps.
At 26 pounds, the Feasto is on the heavier end of “portable.” It works well for tailgates and car camping but becomes cumbersome on longer walks from the parking area.
Who it’s best for
Large families or hosts cooking for groups. Anyone wanting cast iron performance under $100. Tailgaters with car access.
Who should skip it
Anyone who needs to carry the grill more than a short distance. Backpackers and hikers should look at lighter options.
10. MAISON HUIS Small Charcoal Grill – Budget Iron Build With Smoker Feature
MAISON HUIS Small Charcoal Grill, Portable Tabletop BBQ Smoker for Outdoor Camping,Mini Grill for Tailgating, Hiking & Picnic, (Green)
140 sq in grate
2 lbs iron
Two side vents
Chimney vent
Pros
- Iron construction resists rust and scratches
- Two side vents plus chimney for fire control
- Removable grill rack for easy cleaning
- Smoker feature adds flavor
Cons
- Smaller cooking area limits group size
- Required assembly
The MAISON HUIS Small Charcoal Grill packs a smoker feature into a budget-friendly package. I tested the chimney vent and side vents for fire control, and the temperature adjustments were responsive. Fish came out with a clean smoky flavor that surprised me at this price.
The iron construction feels solid in hand. After a season of regular use, the finish showed no rust despite being stored in a humid garage. The removable grill rack cleaned up easily.
At 2 pounds and compact 16.5 x 11.8 x 14.6 inch dimensions, this grill fits in a sedan trunk without rearranging cargo. It’s the smallest footprint on this list.
The 140 square inch cooking area fits 6 burgers, 16 hot dogs, 8 chicken breasts, or 4 steaks. That’s enough for couples or small families. For larger groups, expect multiple rounds.
Who it’s best for
Budget shoppers wanting iron construction under $70. Couples and small families. Anyone who values the smoker feature for added flavor.
Who should skip it
Anyone cooking regularly for more than 4 people. The smaller grate requires batch cooking.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Tabletop Charcoal Grills?
Picking the right tabletop charcoal grill depends on how you actually plan to use it. I break down the key factors below based on what mattered most during our testing.
Cooking Area and Group Size
The first question is how many people you typically cook for. A 14-inch grill fits 4 to 6 burgers in one round. An 18-inch kettle fits 8 to 12 burgers. For couples or small families, a 150 to 200 square inch grate handles most meals. For groups of 6 or more, look at 240+ square inches.
The Feasto and Royal Gourmet models offer 300+ square inches with warming racks, which gives you flexibility to keep food hot while finishing other items.
Weight and True Portability
Portable means different things to different people. The Cuisinart at 4 pounds is genuinely carry-anywhere portable. The Weber Go-Anywhere at 14 pounds is trunk-friendly. The Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler at 48.5 pounds is roll-it-from-the-garage portable.
For camping and tailgating, anything under 20 pounds stays practical. For backyard or RV use, weight matters less than cooking performance.
Build Material and Durability
Three materials dominate the portable charcoal grill market:
Porcelain-enameled steel: Most common in Weber models. Resists rust and cleans easily.
Cast iron: Found in Oklahoma Joe’s and Feasto. Best heat retention, heaviest option.
Ceramic: Used in Kamado Joe. Locks in moisture, premium price, heaviest of all.
Reddit owners consistently report 5+ year lifespans from porcelain-enameled models with regular care. Cast iron can last decades with proper seasoning.
Temperature Control Features
Look for adjustable dampers on both the top and bottom of the grill. The Weber Jumbo Joe, Royal Gourmet, and Napoleon Legend all offer dual-damper systems that let you dial in temperature without lifting the lid.
Built-in thermometers save guesswork. Models like the Feasto, Royal Gourmet, and Kamado Joe Joe Jr include temperature gauges that proved useful during long cooks.
Ash Management and Cleanup
Ash leakage is the most common complaint in user reviews. The Smokey Joe’s ash catcher, the Cuisinart’s three lid locks, and the Go-Anywhere’s sealed design all address this issue. Cheaper grills without dedicated ash management create messes during transport.
For easy cleanup, look for removable ash pans. The Royal Gourmet, Feasto, and Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler all include separable ash trays.
Warranty and Long-Term Value
Warranty length signals manufacturer confidence:
10-year limited: Weber Jumbo Joe, Weber Smokey Joe, Weber Go-Anywhere, Napoleon Legend
Lifetime on ceramics, 5 years on metal: Kamado Joe Joe Jr
2 years: Oklahoma Joe’s Rambler
1 year: Royal Gourmet, Feasto
90 days: Cuisinart
Heavier users should prioritize longer warranties. Casual users can accept shorter coverage.
Charcoal Compatibility
All grills on this list work with standard lump charcoal and briquettes. Lump burns hotter and cleaner. Briquettes burn longer and more consistently. The Weber Go-Anywhere’s char-rail insert and the Napoleon’s dual-section basket both work well with either fuel type.
For proper charcoal storage and organization, consider a dedicated bin to keep your fuel dry between uses.
Alternatives Worth Considering
If charcoal isn’t your preferred fuel, explore electric grills for indoor and apartment use. For those considering pellet grills as portable options, our portable pellet grill alternatives guide covers the leading choices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tabletop Charcoal Grills
What is the best countertop grill?
The best countertop grill depends on your cooking needs. For charcoal flavor in a portable form, the Weber Jumbo Joe offers the best balance of cooking area (240 sq in), weight (18 lbs), and Weber build quality. For budget shoppers, the Cuisinart 14-Inch delivers solid performance at 4 pounds. For premium heat retention, the Kamado Joe Joe Jr provides ceramic construction that locks in moisture at any temperature.
Are tabletop grills worth it?
Yes, tabletop grills are worth it for anyone who wants authentic charcoal flavor in a portable form. They work well for camping, tailgating, beach picnics, apartment balconies, and small patios where full-size grills are impractical. The tradeoffs are smaller cooking areas and shorter burn times compared to full-size units. For groups of 4 to 6 people, most tabletop charcoal grills handle full meals.
What is the best table top barbecue?
The best table top barbecue for most buyers is the Weber Jumbo Joe 18-Inch. It combines a 240 square inch cooking area, 18.5-inch plated steel grate, Tuck-N-Carry lid lock, and aluminum dampers for temperature control. With 4.8 stars from 5,599 reviews, it has the strongest owner satisfaction in the portable charcoal grill category.
Who makes the best tabletop gas grill?
For gas-powered tabletop grills, Weber leads with the Weber Q1200. It offers 189 square inches of cooking area, porcelain-enameled cast iron grates, and electronic ignition. The Weber Q series dominates the portable gas grill market with strong build quality and consistent temperature control.
How do I control temperature on a charcoal grill?
Control temperature on a charcoal grill by adjusting the bottom and top dampers. Open both fully for high heat (450+ degrees), partially close them for medium heat (300-350 degrees), and close them mostly for low-and-slow cooking (225-275 degrees). The Weber Jumbo Joe, Royal Gourmet CD1519, and Napoleon Legend all offer dual-damper systems for precise control.
Final Verdict: Which Tabletop Charcoal Grill Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing 10 portable charcoal grills over three months, the Weber Jumbo Joe 18-Inch remains our top pick for best tabletop charcoal grills. It offers the right combination of cooking area, build quality, and reasonable portability for most buyers. The 4.8-star rating from 5,599 owners confirms what our hands-on testing showed: this grill performs.
For budget shoppers, the Cuisinart 14-Inch at 4 pounds delivers more value than its price suggests. If you want premium heat retention and don’t mind the weight, the Kamado Joe Joe Jr is in a class of its own.
Whatever you choose, a portable charcoal grill opens up cooking possibilities that gas and electric units simply can’t match. The smoky flavor, the sear marks, and the ritual of charcoal grilling all make it worth the extra effort. Get your grill, light your coals, and enjoy 2026‘s best outdoor cooking.
For those considering alternatives, check out our guide to portable pellet grill alternatives for a different cooking style.