Do you dream of backyard barbecues that fill the air with an irresistible, smoky aroma? That deep, rich flavor you get from perfectly grilled food is often the secret weapon of master cooks. But when you start looking for a wood-burning grill, the choices can quickly become overwhelming. It feels like every brand uses different terms, and you worry about picking one that burns too hot or doesn’t give you that authentic wood-fired taste.
Choosing the right wood-burning grill is a big decision. You want the best flavor without the hassle. This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what makes a great wood-burning grill and what features truly matter for your cooking style.
By the end of this post, you will know exactly what to look for, ensuring your next grill purchase is a winner. Let’s dive in and discover how to achieve legendary barbecue right in your own backyard!
Top Wood Burning Grill Recommendations
No. 1
Hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Cooking Grate & Charcoal Pan, Outdoor Wood Burning BBQ Grill Firepit Bowl with Cover Lid, Steel Round Table for Backyard Bonfire Patio Picnic
- 【3-IN-1 Outdoor Fire Pit】: Measures 35” Dia x 26” H, This wood burning fire pit from Hykolity features a multi-functional design, ideal for outdoor heating and grilling. The round cover lid can be placed directly on the fire pit and converted into a table for drinks, fruits, and snacks.
- 【Convenient Design】: The large cooking grate has a diameter of 18.5 inches, while the small one has a diameter of 15 inches, making it safe to cook on. With built-in handles at both ends, the barbecue grill can be easily swiveled 360 degrees and adjusted up and down as needed
- 【Accessories Complete】: The fire pit also features a log rack, a charcoal pan, and a poker. The log rack can help promote efficient log burn while the charcoal pan can be placed into the fire pit for holding charcoal, maintaining a gentle and even fire when grilling.
- 【Durable and Practical】: Made from heavy-duty gauge steel, the 35in steel fire pit is not only rustproof and weather-resistant but also has a large load-bearing capacity and long-lasting durability. The circular steel ring fixed on the four legs, making this fire pit more stable; The 24-inch fire bowl with an open deep bowl design is perfect for a warm fire on a cool night.
- 【Warranty】: Hykolity’s Fire Pit is guaranteed for 1 year. We aim for quality followed up with quality customer service directly provided by the manufacturer. We offer free-exchange for any quality problems within the warranty.
No. 2
OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills, Wood Burning Fire Pits for Outside with Lid, Poker and Round Waterproof Cover, BBQ& Outdoor Firepit & Round Metal Table 3 in 1 for Patio, Picnic, Party
- [3 IN 1]: OutVue fire pit is equipped with 2 cooking grills, 1 lid and tabletop. When you fix grills and tabletop to the fire pit, you can enjoy the roast and bonfire. When it not make fire and cover the lid, you will get a 36 inch round table to have a meal or coffee for 6-8 persons. OutVue provide a wood fire pit has 3 functions: bonfire, barbecue and table, which can be used all year for your garden, yard, patio. This's also a very thoughtful gift to friends.
- [Beautiful & Humanized Design]OutVue fire pit table comes with 2 height-adjustable and 360° swivel grills which disassemble freely. You can barbecue, keep food warm or put pan to cook on them. The side of wood-burning fire pit is created with modern geometric cut-out design which catches firelight for creating fun shadows. The drilled design promotes airflow and keeps the fire strong. All sophisticated designs of the fire pits for outside are dedicated to the warmth and comfort for you.
- [Durable& Safe] OutVue outdoor fire pit hold up to 20 lb wood, offer roaring fire and enough warmth. Firepit has 4 legs and enough weight can improve stability on uneven ground. Wood fire pits for outside coated with high-temperature powder for durability and rust resistance. We also send a rain-proof cover to protect fire pits. The screen meshes on the vents avoid sparks and embers from flying out. Fire poker lets you to move wood safely.
- [Easy Assembly] The wood burning fire pit comes with detailed instruction, so it can be set up in 20 minutes. NOTE: It should be noted that the screws should not be tightened completely during installation until all pieces are connected together. After easy installation, get wonderful time with family around OutVue fire pit!
- [What Will You Get]The package contains 1 fire pit, 1 lid, 1 fire poker, 1round waterproof cover, 2 cooking grates and all parts required for assembly.Overall size of fire pit is 36 '' L* 36'' W*28 H,fire bowl size 24''W*24'' L*10''H.Tabletop size 36"W * 36'' L.We wish you can get happiness and cozy memories with your families or friends around Outvue fire pits for outside.We can provide replacement parts for the product.If you have any questions, please contact us
No. 3
SHIYISHOPPIN Outdoor Fire Pit with Grill, Fire Pits for Outside Wood Burning with Spark Screen Cover, Slide-Out Ash Drawer, Portable Charcoal Grill Firepits for Camping, Patio, Backyard BBQs
- 2-in-1 Versatility: This grill and fire pit combo functions as both an efficient charcoal grill and a cozy fire pit, eliminating the need for separate gear. Perfect for backyard gatherings, camping trips, and patio evenings.
- Enhanced Safety & Airflow: This outdoor fire pit features a convenient openable mesh door for adding fuel and controlling flames safely. The all-mesh construction ensures optimal ventilation for even burning while containing sparks.
- Sturdy & Portable Build: The fire pit grill crafted from durable metal with four reinforced legs for stability. The integrated top handle and lightweight mesh lid make it easy to transport and move around any outdoor space.
- Effortless Cleanup & Storage: The slide-out ash drawer simplifies post-grill cleanup. An added bottom mesh shelf provides extra space for grilling accessories, charcoal, or firewood, keeping essentials organized.
- Professional Grilling Tools Included: The small fire pit comes with a steel fire tong for safe coal adjustment and a liftable lid to prevent burns. The food-grade, removable cooking grate ensures easy cleaning and flavorful results.
No. 4
Royal Gourmet CC2036F Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker, Outdoor BBQ Grill with 1200 Sq. In. Grilling Area for Large Event Gathering, Black
- Tremendous Cooking Space: Caters for 8-10 gathering with 668 sq. in. cooking grates, 260 sq. in. warming rack and 272 sq. in. offset smoker. All are made of heavy gauge porcelain-enameled steel wire
- Offset Smoker: Firmly attached to the main body for good circulation of heat and smoke. And it can also provide additional grilling or smoking cooking space for small side dishes
- Adjustable Charcoal Pan: 3-level height adjustable charcoal pan creates better heat control and energy efficiency. It can hold up to 3.5kg/7.7 lb. of coal which is enough for large events
- Side Charcoal Door: Easy to tend the charcoal up to 1.2kg/2.6 lb. with the heavy duty handle on the offset smoker, no worries for insufficient coal and no need to remove the entire grates
- No Fussy Cleanup: The removable grease drip cup and charcoal pan help collect residues for hassle-free cleanup
No. 5
Panovue 47 Inch Outdoor Wood Burning Fire Pit with 2 Grills,Extra Large 3-in-1 Fire Pit with Metal Lid & Fire Poker, Heavy Duty BBQ Firepits for Outside, Backyard, Bonfire, Patio & Party (47'' Black)
- 【Beauty & Large Fire Pit】Panovue 47''heavy duty fire pit,The overall dimensions of the firepit is 47’’D*47’’W*35’’H,The fire bowl size is 29.5''*29.5''*12'',allowing it to hold up to 20-30 lbs of firewood,The diamond-patterned surround isn’t just eye candy,it’s engineered to trap sparks while framing the flames.you can relax by the fire without leaning over, while the lattice pattern casts beautiful, flickering shadows on the ground, adding magic to every evening.
- 【Versatile Design Fire Pit】Panovue large fire pit is a versatile hub for unforgettable gatherings.The dual grills—an 18" and 23" premium iron surface easily raise or lower the grilling surface to 5 different heights,offer seamless transitions from sizzling steaks to delicate veggies.When the feast ends, simply place the custom-fit iron lid over the pit,transforming it into a circular dining fire pit table.Making it ideal for weekend BBQ, cozy fall evenings, or summer bonfire sessions.
- 【Safety and Sturdy Fire Pit】Panovue wood burning 3-in-1 fire pit features a diamond-lattice perimeter.The striking design allow optimal airflow for robust fires while blocking embers from escaping.The outdoor fireplaces stand strong against the elements with its heavy duty iron frame and four robust legs connected by a circular support ring.The cylindrical legs aren’t just for balance—they’re designed with a slight outward angle to distribute weight evenly, preventing wobbling on uneven ground.
- 【Perfect Size for Gift】Panovue 47 inch fire pit table is just right. Hosted 8-15 people gather around to enjoy unforgettable time, eating and chatting without crowding.In these moments, time slows. It’s not just the heat from the fire that warms us,the firepits for outside share smiles, the inside jokes, and the simple joy of being together.watching marshmallows and food transform from pure white to golden brown over the gentle flames,enjoys the wonderful time with your family.
- 【Easy installation&Tips】Panovue fire pits come with clear instructions,and only takes 1-2 adults about 30 minutes to put it together.Tips: 1.When assembling the fire pits with grill,don't fully tighten the screws until all pieces are connected. 2. Lay aluminum foil flat on the barbecue grill for easy clean up. Avoid grilling directly on the grill surface. 3.Do not place directly on wooden floor or grass, always set it on a heat-resistant surface like stone or gravel.
No. 6
TITAN GREAT OUTDOORS Ash & Ember Santa Maria Grill, Argentine Style Open Fire Grill, Adjustable Cooking Grate with Flywheel, BBQ Grill Comes with Cast Iron Skillet
- OPEN FIRE ARGENTINE STYLE GRILL: Cook up delicious steaks, tri-tips, and Santa Maria BBQ in your own backyard! This Argentine style grill uses wood and coal fuel for a rustic open flame experience.
- FLYWHEEL FOR TEMP CONTROL: This Santa Maria grill features a sturdy flywheel to adjust the grate height for perfect heat control - set your meat close to the flames for hot and fast searing or raise the grate for a low and slow sizzle!
- COMES WITH COOKING GRATE AND CAST IRON SKILLET: Cook up an entire meal at one time. This grill comes with a height adjustable cooking grate and a cast iron skillet for endless meal possibilities.
- HEAVY DUTY CONSTRUCTION: Thick, powder-coated steel construction will make this grill your go-to for years to come. And it comes with a quick-clean side door for emptying ash and cool-coil handles for ease of use.
- DOUBLES AS A FIRE PIT: Remove the legs from your grill and you have an instant campfire for lounging in your back yard when the cooking is done! Simply detach the self-leveling legs and rest the main grill ring on the ground for an instant fire pit.
No. 7
Odoland Camping Campfire Grill, Portable Folding Charcoal Grills, Backpacking BBQ Grill, Heavy Duty Firepit with Carry Bag for Outdoor Cooking, Bonfire, Patio, Backyard
- 【Portable & Lightweight】For space-saving storage and quick organization, the charcoal camping grill with compact size (13" x 10.5") is ideal. Equipped a carring case, making them compact and easy to take outdoor for bonfire, picnic, BBQ in the courtyard or garden.
- 【Multifunctional】Our camp charcoal grill can be worked as wood burning stove and barbecue grill. It supports wood and charcoal burning. Come with a 304 Stainless Steel Grill, which is suitable for grilling and outdoor cookware. The grill rack can fits 3-4 skewers at a time, meets your different grilling and cooking needs.
- 【Premium Material】Made from heavy-duty iron, coated black that can resists high-temperatures.The grill also can be used as fire screen to stop sparks, embers, and debris from flying and splashing in those breeze nights.
- 【Easy Assembly】Simple design, easy to assemble under the manual enclosed within minutes. Overall dimensions: 11.4" ×11.6" ×8.1".
- 【Camping Gear Must Have】With a modern and stylish design, this fire pit with grill is a perfect addition to any garden, patio, backyard, terrace or when your camping!
No. 8
Royal Gourmet CC1830V 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Wood-Painted Side Front Table, 627 Square Inches Cooking Space, for Outdoor Backyard, Patio and Parties, Black
- Main Smoking Area: 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates with 184 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire warming rack offer enough space to cook large cuts of meat.
- Heat Control: Close the side air vent to cut off the oxygen flow, thus to help extinguish coals and adjust the smoke stack for extra heat control.
- Adjustable Fire Grates: Raise or lower charcoal pan to 2 different heights with lifting handles in order to control the distance between charcoal and food.
- Lid-mounted Gauge: Monitor the inner temperature fluctuations and check the timely point to smoke meat and vegetables.
- Easy Dump: The adjustable fire grate is an easy-to-dump ash pan for quick and mess-free cleanup after cooking.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing Your Perfect Wood Burning Grill
A wood-burning grill brings a special smoky flavor to your food. It’s a different experience than gas or charcoal. This guide helps you pick the right one for your backyard adventures.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, look closely at what the grill offers. These features make cooking easier and better.
Temperature Control and Airflow
- Adjustable Vents (Dampers): Good grills have vents on the top and bottom. These control how much air feeds the fire. More air means a hotter fire. Less air means a cooler, slower burn. This is your main way to manage heat.
- Thermometer: A built-in lid thermometer helps you monitor the heat without opening the grill. Opening the lid lets heat escape.
Cooking Surface and Capacity
- Grill Grate Material: See the section below on materials. The grate must hold heat well.
- Size: Think about how much food you cook at once. A small apartment might need a compact model. A big family needs a larger cooking area.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
- Ash Removal System: Wood leaves ash. A removable ash catcher makes cleanup fast. You do not want to scrape hot ashes out of the bottom every time.
- Sturdy Cart/Wheels: If you plan to move the grill, strong wheels are important.
Important Materials for Longevity
The material of your grill affects how long it lasts and how well it cooks.
Body Construction
- Thick Steel or Cast Iron: These materials hold heat very well. Thicker metal resists warping when the fire gets hot. Heavy-duty construction usually means better performance.
- Stainless Steel: This resists rust, especially if you live near the coast. However, it might not retain heat as well as thick cast iron unless it is very heavy gauge.
Cooking Grates
- Cast Iron Grates: These are the best for searing. They get very hot and create deep grill marks. They require seasoning (oiling) to prevent rust.
- Stainless Steel Grates: These are easier to clean and do not rust easily. They heat up slightly slower than cast iron.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all wood grills are built the same. Small details make a big difference in quality.
Quality Enhancers
- Double-Walled Construction: A well-built grill often has two layers of metal on the lid and body. This keeps the outside cooler and maintains steady internal temperatures.
- Heavy-Duty Hinges and Latches: Cheap hinges break quickly under heat stress. Good hinges stay strong for years.
Quality Reducers
- Thin Metal: If the metal feels light, it will heat up too fast and lose heat just as quickly. Thin metal also rusts faster.
- Poor Sealing: If the lid does not seal tightly, smoke and heat escape unevenly. This makes temperature control very difficult.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the grill. This helps match the size and style to your needs.
Slow Smoking vs. High Heat Grilling
- For Low-and-Slow BBQ (Smoking): You need a large firebox or a design that allows wood chunks to smolder for hours. Look for excellent airflow control for long cooks.
- For Quick Searing: You need a grill that can handle a very hot bed of coals quickly. A smaller, well-vented chamber works well for this.
Portability and Placement
- Backyard Staple: If the grill stays in one spot, a large, heavy model with a side table is great.
- Tailgating/Camping: If you move it often, look for smaller, barrel-style grills that separate into fewer pieces for transport.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Wood Burning Grills
Q: How is a wood-burning grill different from a charcoal grill?
A: Charcoal burns consistently and is easy to start. Wood burns slower, produces more smoke for flavor, and requires managing larger pieces of fuel.
Q: What type of wood should I use?
A: Hardwoods like oak, hickory, or apple wood work best. Avoid softwoods like pine because they create too much creosote (soot).
Q: Do wood grills get hot enough to sear steaks?
A: Yes. If you use dry, seasoned wood or small wood chunks, you can build a very hot coal bed capable of searing.
Q: Is it hard to control the temperature?
A: It takes practice. You control the heat mainly by adjusting the air vents, not by turning a knob like on a gas grill.
Q: How often do I need to clean the grill?
A: After every use, you should scrape the grates. Once a month, depending on use, you should empty the ash catcher.
Q: Will a wood grill rust easily?
A: Any grill can rust if left outside in the rain. Covering your grill when not in use is very important for metal longevity.
Q: Can I use this grill for smoking and grilling at the same time?
A: Many larger models are designed for indirect cooking, where the fire is on one side and the food cooks slowly on the other side.
Q: Are wood grills safe to use on a wooden deck?
A: You must use a grill mat underneath to protect the surface from falling embers or heat transfer. Always check local fire codes.
Q: How long does the wood fuel last in a typical cook?
A: For a long, slow smoke (8-10 hours), you will need to add small amounts of wood every 1 to 2 hours to maintain the fire.
Q: What is the initial setup like for a new wood grill?
A: Most quality grills require you to season the cast iron grates first by oiling them and burning them hot. The main body assembly is usually simple, involving attaching the legs or cart.