A Compact Charcoal Grill Review: Small But Mighty

Hey, what’s up, everyone? Welcome to BrodeLife! If you’re into BBQ, smoking, and all things outdoor cooking, you’re in the right place. Today, I’m diving into my latest pick-up: a compact, Vessils high-heat ceramic charcoal grill.

Whether you’re looking for a portable grill for tailgating or just a compact option for small cooks, this might be worth checking out. Let’s get into it!

First Impressions

Right out of the gate, the build quality on this little guy is solid. It’s got a heavy-duty ceramic body, weighing in at around 43 pounds. So while it’s definitely got some weight to it, it’s still light enough to take on the go—great for tailgating, camping, or just moving around the patio.

The hinge is smooth, which makes opening and closing the lid easy, and it locks in place nicely. Temperature control is also pretty solid. I fired it up and had it holding steady at 400°F within about 20 minutes. That’s a great sign for consistency!

Cooking Space & Heat Retention

This grill gives you about a 10-inch cooking surface, which is perfect for small meals, grilling up a few burgers, or even some steaks. If you’re cooking for a big group, you’ll probably need something larger, but for a couple of people or a quick cook, it gets the job done.

One thing I noticed is that it holds heat really well. The ceramic body locks in heat and gives you great fuel efficiency. Even with a small amount of charcoal, it stayed hot and steady, which is exactly what you want.

Temperature & Vent Control

This grill has sliders for airflow control, which let you fine-tune the temperature. They’re not the smoothest right out of the box, but a little vegetable oil could help with that. Once you get them adjusted, they do a good job of controlling the heat.

I haven’t done a long, slow cook on it yet, but based on how steady the temp was during my first test, I’m expecting it to handle low-and-slow pretty well.

Charcoal & Ash Management

The grill fits a good amount of charcoal for its size, which means you won’t be refueling constantly. It also comes with an ash tool, which makes cleanup easier. Since I bought mine second-hand, I didn’t get the ash tool, but a small shovel or scoop should do the trick.

Portability & Who It’s For

The compact size and weight make this a great option for anyone who wants a portable charcoal grill. Whether you’re grilling at a tailgate, on a camping trip, or just want a space-saving option for a small patio, this little grill is easy to bring along.

That said, it’s definitely not for large cooks. If you’re planning on smoking a brisket or cooking for a crowd, you’ll need a bigger setup. But for quick meals, smaller portions, and easy transport, it’s a great option to have.

Final Thoughts

So far, I’m really liking this grill. It’s well-built, holds heat steady, and is super portable. 

If you’re into BBQ and grilling, be sure to check out my YouTube channel.