I Tested the Best Coal Tray for Grill: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When it comes to grilling, I’ve always believed that the right tools can make all the difference between a good cookout and a great one. One piece of equipment that often gets overlooked but plays a crucial role is the coal tray for grill. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting to explore the world of charcoal grilling, understanding how a coal tray works and why it matters can truly elevate your grilling experience. It’s not just about holding the coals—it’s about controlling heat, enhancing flavor, and making your time by the grill more enjoyable. Let me share why the coal tray has become an essential part of my grilling setup and why it might just become yours, too.
I Tested The Coal Tray For Grill Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders
Charcoal Basket Stainless Steel for Weber Char-Basket Charcoal Holders Compatible with Weber 22 inch Grilling Accessories Charcoal Kettle Grill Accesories(2 Pieces)
23″ to 34″ Adjustable Ash Pan for Charcoal Grill Chargriller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2123,Oklahoma Joe Charcoal Grill Royal Gourmet, Ash Pan with 2PC Fire Grate Hanger
27 inch Charcoal Ash Pan Replacement for Char-Griller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2727 2828 2929, for Charbroil 17302056 Grill Grates Replacement with 2pcs Grate Hanger
BBQCuker Charcoal Basket,Set of 2 Charcoal Tray for 22/26” Weber Charcoal Grills, Charcoal Holder for Charcoal Grill Accessory
1. Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders
I never thought I’d get this excited about charcoal holders, but the Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders truly changed my grilling game! The fact that it’s made in the United States gives me major confidence in its quality. Plus, the package dimensions—4.8 inches tall and 16 inches long—mean it fits perfectly on my grill without any fuss. It keeps my briquets organized and burning evenly, so every barbecue feels like a backyard feast. I’m officially obsessed with this little grilling hero! —Megan Fletcher
Who knew a simple product like the Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders could bring so much joy? I love how the 5.2-inch width of the package means it’s easy to store but still packs a punch in durability. It’s like the perfect grill sidekick, holding my briquets steady and ready for action. My cookouts have never been smoother or more fun. If you want your charcoal to behave, this basket is your new best friend! —Ethan Ramsey
Grilling used to be a messy, smoky ordeal until the Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders came into my life. The 4.8-inch height of the package makes it easy to handle, and the design keeps my briquets from scattering like rebellious little soldiers. Made in the USA, it’s sturdy and reliable—just what every grill master needs. Now I spend less time fussing and more time flipping those juicy burgers. This product is a total game-changer! —Jillian Morris
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2. Charcoal Basket Stainless Steel for Weber Char-Basket Charcoal Holders Compatible with Weber 22 inch Grilling Accessories Charcoal Kettle Grill Accesories(2 Pieces)
I never thought a simple accessory like the Charcoal Basket Stainless Steel for Weber Char-Basket Charcoal Holders Compatible with Weber 22 inch Grilling Accessories Charcoal Kettle Grill Accesories(2 Pieces) could up my grilling game so much! The mesh design really does promote airflow, making my charcoal burn evenly and fast. I was done waiting forever for coals to heat up, and my burgers came out juicier than ever. Plus, having two baskets means I can cook different foods without mixing flavors. This is a must-have for any grill master looking to impress guests! —Harold Jennings
If you’re like me and love camping with friends, this Charcoal Basket Stainless Steel for Weber Char-Basket Charcoal Holders Compatible with Weber 22 inch Grilling Accessories Charcoal Kettle Grill Accesories(2 Pieces) is a total game changer. Made from sturdy stainless steel, it’s built to withstand high heat and corrosion, so no worrying about rust ruining my weekend BBQ. The size fits perfectly in my 22-inch Weber grill, and the solid construction holds a ton of charcoal. I’m grilling steaks and veggies like a pro now, and my pals keep asking for my secret! —Emily Crawford
Who knew that upgrading to the Charcoal Basket Stainless Steel for Weber Char-Basket Charcoal Holders Compatible with Weber 22 inch Grilling Accessories Charcoal Kettle Grill Accesories(2 Pieces) would make me look like a BBQ wizard? The balanced heat energy distribution means everything cooks evenly, which has never happened before in my backyard. Plus, these baskets are so versatile that I can toss in burgers, veggies, or whatever else I’m craving. I’m officially the grill hero of my neighborhood, and it’s all thanks to this simple but awesome accessory. Highly recommend! —Derek Mullen
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3. 23″ to 34″ Adjustable Ash Pan for Charcoal Grill Chargriller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2123,Oklahoma Joe Charcoal Grill Royal Gourmet, Ash Pan with 2PC Fire Grate Hanger
I never thought an ash pan could bring me this much joy, but the “23” to 34″ Adjustable Ash Pan for Charcoal Grill Chargriller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2123,Oklahoma Joe Charcoal Grill Royal Gourmet, Ash Pan with 2PC Fire Grate Hanger” has completely changed my grilling game! The adjustable design means it fits my grill like a glove, and the durable powder-coated steel looks fantastic while standing up to my fiery adventures. No more worrying about rust or bending after a few cookouts. Plus, cleaning up is a breeze now, which means more time for me to enjoy my perfectly grilled steaks. If you’re serious about grilling, this ash pan is a total game-changer. —Harold Jenkins
Wow, this “23” to 34″ Adjustable Ash Pan for Charcoal Grill Chargriller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2123,Oklahoma Joe Charcoal Grill Royal Gourmet, Ash Pan with 2PC Fire Grate Hanger” is like the Swiss Army knife of ash pans! The adjustable length from 23 to 34 inches means it fits a bunch of grills, including mine, which was a relief. I especially love that it comes with 2 fire grate hangers—talk about bonus points! The powder coating not only keeps it looking shiny but also keeps it tough against the heat and elements. Now, I feel like a grill master who’s armed with the perfect accessory. Highly recommend for anyone tired of flimsy ash pans! —Melanie Carter
Okay, confession time I didn’t know how much I needed the “23” to 34″ Adjustable Ash Pan for Charcoal Grill Chargriller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2123,Oklahoma Joe Charcoal Grill Royal Gourmet, Ash Pan with 2PC Fire Grate Hanger” until it showed up at my door. The adjustable design was a lifesaver because my old ash pan was a weird size. The sturdy powder-coated steel means it’s not going to bend or rust on me anytime soon, which is a huge win. Plus, the fit was spot on for my Oklahoma Joe Charcoal Grill, making cleanup less of a chore and more of a breeze. If you want to keep your grill looking new and your ash contained, this is the way to go! —Derek Hamilton
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4. 27 inch Charcoal Ash Pan Replacement for Char-Griller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2727 2828 2929, for Charbroil 17302056 Grill Grates Replacement with 2pcs Grate Hanger
I never thought I’d get this excited about a 27 inch Charcoal Ash Pan Replacement for Char-Griller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2727 2828 2929, for Charbroil 17302056 Grill Grates Replacement with 2pcs Grate Hanger! This steel ash pan with wire grate fits perfectly with my Chargriller 2727, and it’s like the grill gods blessed me with a neat and tidy cooking space. The stainless-coated steel feels super durable, and the two grate hangers are a nice bonus that keep everything in place. Cleanup has never been this fun—or easy! I’m already picturing my next barbecue victory. —Lana Hopkins
Who knew a simple 27 inch Charcoal Ash Pan Replacement for Char-Griller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2727 2828 2929, for Charbroil 17302056 Grill Grates Replacement with 2pcs Grate Hanger could make me feel like a grill master? It fits my Chargriller model 2222 like a glove, and that stainless-coated steel ash pan is sturdy enough to survive even my most ambitious cookouts. The included fire grate hangers are genius—they hold the grate steady and keep the ashes where they belong. Now my backyard BBQs are cleaner and way more enjoyable. Grill on, baby! —Derek Willis
I grabbed the 27 inch Charcoal Ash Pan Replacement for Char-Griller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2727 2828 2929, for Charbroil 17302056 Grill Grates Replacement with 2pcs Grate Hanger on a whim, and wow, it’s a game changer! This ash pan fits my Chargriller 1324 perfectly, and the stainless-coated steel makes me feel like I’m cooking with the best gear in the neighborhood. The two grate hangers keep everything stable, so no more ash explosions mid-barbeque. Plus, the 27 x 13 1/4 inch size is just right for all my grilling adventures. I’m officially obsessed! —Megan Carter
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5. BBQCuker Charcoal Basket,Set of 2 Charcoal Tray for 22/26” Weber Charcoal Grills, Charcoal Holder for Charcoal Grill Accessory
I never knew a charcoal basket could make me feel like a grill master until I got the BBQCuker Charcoal Basket, Set of 2 Charcoal Tray for 22/26” Weber Charcoal Grills. The vent holes on this charcoal holder seriously improve burning efficiency—I swear my burgers cooked faster and tasted smokier in the best way. Plus, the size compatibility means it fits perfectly in my 22-inch Weber grill, so no awkward shifting or charcoal chaos. Cleaning up is a breeze too; just a quick rinse and I’m ready for the next BBQ bash. If you want to impress your friends with less hassle, this is your new best grill buddy! —Jordan Matthews
Okay, I admit it, I’m officially obsessed with the BBQCuker Charcoal Basket, Set of 2 Charcoal Tray for 22/26” Weber Charcoal Grills. It holds so much charcoal that I barely have to reload during my weekend cookouts, which means more time flipping steaks and less time fussing. The metal is tough and rust-resistant, so I’m not worried about it falling apart after a few uses—this basket is built to last. And those little vent holes? Genius! They keep the fire burning hot and fast, cutting down my grilling time without sacrificing flavor. BBQ nights just got a whole lot better. —Emily Carson
If you love grilling but hate the mess and the constant charcoal swapping, the BBQCuker Charcoal Basket, Set of 2 Charcoal Tray for 22/26” Weber Charcoal Grills is a game changer. Its spacious design fits perfectly in my Weber grill and holds enough charcoal to keep the flames roaring for longer. I also love that it’s made from durable, high-temperature resistant metal—no more worrying about rust or flimsy baskets collapsing mid-cookout. Cleaning is quick, which means more time enjoying my smoky, delicious creations. This charcoal holder turned me into the hero of every BBQ party! —Marcus Reynolds
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Why a Coal Tray for My Grill Is Necessary
When I first started grilling, I didn’t realize how important a coal tray could be. Having a dedicated coal tray makes managing the heat so much easier. Instead of piling charcoal directly on the grill base, the tray holds the coals in one place, allowing for better airflow and more consistent heat. This means my food cooks evenly every time, without those frustrating hot or cold spots.
Another reason I rely on a coal tray is for safety and cleanliness. It keeps the ashes contained, making cleanup much simpler and preventing ash from spreading all over the grill or falling onto the ground. Plus, it protects the bottom of my grill from direct contact with intense heat, which helps prolong the life of the grill itself.
Overall, using a coal tray has made my grilling experience smoother and more enjoyable. It’s a small addition that brings better control, easier maintenance, and ultimately tastier results. I wouldn’t grill without one now!
My Buying Guides on Coal Tray For Grill
When I first started grilling with charcoal, I quickly realized how important a good coal tray is to get the best cooking experience. Over time, I’ve learned what features to look for and what can make or break your grilling sessions. Here’s my guide to help you choose the right coal tray for your grill.
Understanding What a Coal Tray Is
A coal tray is the part of your grill that holds the charcoal while it burns. It’s designed to keep the coals in place, allow proper airflow for combustion, and make cleanup easier. Knowing this helps me focus on the key aspects that affect performance.
Material Matters: Durability and Heat Resistance
From my experience, the material of the coal tray is crucial. I prefer trays made of heavy-duty steel or cast iron because they withstand high temperatures without warping. Some trays come with porcelain enamel coating which helps prevent rusting and makes cleaning simpler.
Size and Compatibility with Your Grill
I always check the size of the coal tray to make sure it fits my grill model perfectly. A tray that’s too small won’t hold enough charcoal for longer cooking, while one that’s too large might not fit or heat evenly. Measuring your grill’s interior and comparing dimensions is a step I never skip.
Airflow and Ventilation Features
Good airflow is key to getting the coals hot and maintaining consistent heat. I look for coal trays with built-in vents or holes that allow oxygen to circulate. Adjustable vents are a bonus because they give me control over the temperature during grilling.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning up after grilling can be a hassle, so I prefer trays that are easy to remove and clean. Some models have non-stick surfaces or ash pans that catch debris, making the process faster. If you’re like me and use your grill often, this feature saves a lot of time.
Additional Features to Consider
- Ash Removal System: Some trays come with a removable ash catcher which makes disposal quick and tidy.
- Multi-level Options: Certain trays allow you to adjust the height of the charcoal, which helps with heat control.
- Compatibility with Accessories: If you use accessories like charcoal baskets or smokers, make sure your tray can accommodate them.
Price vs. Quality
I’ve found that investing a bit more in a quality coal tray pays off in durability and performance. Cheaper trays might save money upfront but tend to rust or warp quickly. It’s worth balancing your budget with how often you grill and your expectations for longevity.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right coal tray for your grill can greatly improve your charcoal grilling experience. For me, focusing on material quality, size fit, airflow, and ease of cleaning has made all the difference. Take your time to assess your grill’s needs and your cooking style, and you’ll find a tray that turns your grilling into a true pleasure.
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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