Charcoal for Grilling, Drawing, and More: Top Picks
For most grillers, Royal Oak Chef’s Select is the top pick because it burns hot and clean with minimal ash, but it does require a chimney starter for best results.
Charcoal is a versatile fuel used for grilling, smoking, and even art. Choosing the right type can make or break your cookout or creative project.
There are two main categories: lump charcoal for high heat and briquettes for steady, long burns. Artist charcoals differ in hardness and blendability.
We analyzed customer reviews and specifications to bring you a list of top performers in each category.
What matters most
The best picks, ranked
Royal Oak Chef’s Select Lump Charcoal
Made from 100% natural hardwood, this lump charcoal lights quickly and reaches high temperatures. It produces minimal ash, making cleanup easy. Users appreciate the consistent chunk sizes for even heat distribution.
Pros
- High heat output
- Minimal ash and sparks
- No chemical additives
Cons
- Irregular lump sizes
- Requires chimney starter for best results
Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquettes
A classic choice for backyard grilling, these briquettes light easily and hold a consistent temperature. They contain natural ingredients and ash helps control airflow. Many users report reliable performance every time.
Pros
- Even heat distribution
- Long burn time
- Widely available
Cons
- Produces more ash
- Contains fillers that affect flavor
Weber 10000042 Briquettes
Weber briquettes are known for their easy lighting and steady performance. They are made from natural ingredients and produce less ash than many brands. The uniform shape allows for good airflow.
Pros
- Lights quickly
- Low ash
- Reliable heat
Cons
- Smaller bag size
- Slightly higher cost
FOGO All Natural Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal
FOGO is a premium lump charcoal made from select Brazilian hardwoods. It burns extremely hot and clean, with very little ash. The large chunks provide excellent heat retention for searing.
Pros
- Very high heat
- Large chunks
- Minimal impurities
Cons
- More expensive
- May ship with dust at bottom
Kamado Joe Big Block XL Lump Charcoal
Made from dense oak, these extra-large chunks are designed for kamado grills to provide long, consistent burns. They produce less ash and maintain steady temperatures for smoking and slow roasting.
Pros
- Extra-large chunks
- Long burn time
- Stable temperatures
Cons
- Not ideal for small grills
- Premium price
Pratt and Lambert Artist Charcoal Sticks
These vine charcoal sticks are perfect for artists seeking a range of values. They blend easily and can be erased or smudged. The set includes various hardness levels.
Pros
- Easy to blend
- Variety of hardness
- Rich black color
Cons
- Can be brittle
- May need fixative
General Pencil Compressed Charcoal Sticks
These compressed charcoal sticks offer a harder consistency than vine, allowing for fine detail. They are less messy and produce deep blacks. Ideal for mixed media and precise drawings.
Pros
- Great for fine details
- Less smudging
- Long lasting
Cons
- Hard to erase
- Limited set size
Side by side
| # | Model | Weight | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Royal Oak Chef’s Select Lump Charcoal | 20 lbs | High-heat searing and clean burn | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquettes | 20 lbs | Long, steady burns for smoking and low-and-slow | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Weber 10000042 Briquettes | 16 lbs | Quick lighting and consistent heat | 9.1 | Check price |
| 4 | FOGO All Natural Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal | 20 lbs | Premium grilling with minimal additives | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | Kamado Joe Big Block XL Lump Charcoal | 20 lbs | Long cooks in kamado grills | 8.9 | Check price |
| 6 | Pratt and Lambert Artist Charcoal Sticks | 12 sticks | Drawing and sketching with rich blacks | 8.6 | Check price |
| 7 | General Pencil Compressed Charcoal Sticks | 4 sticks | Detailed work and fine lines | 8.4 | Check price |
Common questions
What is the best charcoal for grilling steaks?
Lump charcoal like Royal Oak Chef’s Select is best for steaks because it burns hotter and gives a nice sear.
Is lump charcoal better than briquettes?
Lump charcoal ignites faster, burns hotter, and produces less ash. Briquettes burn longer and more consistently. The choice depends on your cooking style.
How long does charcoal last?
Lump charcoal can burn for 3 to 5 hours, while briquettes can last up to 6 hours. Actual time depends on airflow and grill type.
Can I use charcoal for smoking meat?
Yes, briquettes or large lump chunks work well for smoking. They provide steady low heat for hours.
What is the difference between vine and compressed charcoal for art?
Vine charcoal is soft and blendable. Compressed charcoal is harder and allows for finer details.
How do I light charcoal without lighter fluid?
Use a chimney starter. Place paper in the bottom, fill with charcoal, and light the paper. The charcoal ignites in about 15 minutes.
Is charcoal safe to use indoors?
No, charcoal produces carbon monoxide, which is deadly. Always use outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
What is the best charcoal for a kamado grill?
Large lump charcoal like Kamado Joe Big Block XL is ideal because it fits well and burns for a long time.
The verdict
For most home cooks, Royal Oak Chef’s Select offers the best balance of heat, clean burn, and value. If you prefer a reliable, slow burn for smoking, Kingsford Original Briquettes are a solid choice. Artists should choose based on technique: vine for blending, compressed for detail.
