Weber has been making charcoal grills since 1952, and the Smokey Joe is their most portable take on the original kettle design. This 14-inch model weighs just over 10 pounds, which means you can toss it in a trunk or carry it to a tailgate without a second thought. The porcelain-enameled lid and bowl aren’t just for looks—they retain heat efficiently and prevent rust, giving you consistent performance for years. The plated steel cooking grate is durable enough for frequent use and cleans up quickly with a wire brush.

Setup takes about five minutes. You load charcoal into the bowl, light it, and the dampers on the lid and bottom give you solid control over airflow. The 14-inch cooking surface fits about six burgers or four steaks at once, which makes it ideal for small gatherings or camping trips. It doesn’t have a built-in thermometer, so you’ll want an instant-read probe for precise results. The grill runs on standard lump charcoal or briquettes, and a single load burns for roughly an hour at high heat.

The main trade-off here is size. You won’t be smoking a brisket or cooking for a crowd on the Smokey Joe. But for a portable charcoal grill that delivers real kettle flavor without taking up half your trunk, it’s hard to beat. The legs are a bit wobbly on uneven ground, so bring a small table or a level spot.