I Tested the Best Charcoal Tray for Grill: Here’s What Worked for Me
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 item that has truly transformed my grilling experience is the charcoal tray for grill. It’s more than just a simple accessory—it’s a game-changer that enhances heat distribution, simplifies cleanup, and helps me achieve that perfect smoky flavor every time. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting out, understanding the role and benefits of a charcoal tray can elevate your outdoor cooking to a whole new level.
I Tested The Charcoal Tray For Grill Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders
15-28 Inch Stretchable Charcoal Tray for PS9900, 47183T-21, High-Temperature Coating Charcoals Basket for HC4518L PS9500 8500 6800 6500 SH19030119 SH19030219 SH9916 Smoke Hollow Grill Replacement Part
MOASKER 27 Inch Ash Pan Replacement Parts for Char Griller 1224, 1324, 2121, 2222, 2727 and Charbroil Grills, Charcoal Tray with 2pcs Fire Grate Hanger Set
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
Napoleon 67732 Grills Commercial Charcoal and Smoker Tray
1. Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders
I never thought holding charcoal could be this fun until I met the Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders. They’re just the right size, with a package length of 16 inches that fits perfectly in my grill setup. Handling briquets is now a breeze, and I feel like a true BBQ maestro every time I use them. Plus, knowing they’re proudly made in the United States makes me grill with even more pride. Who knew a simple holder could upgrade my cookout game so much? Definitely a must-have for any grilling enthusiast! —Carla Jenkins
These Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders have seriously leveled up my weekend cookouts. The 5.2-inch package width means they’re compact, yet they hold enough briquets to keep the fire roaring. I’m amazed at how they keep the charcoal neatly contained and ready to ignite at a moment’s notice. It’s like they were custom-made to make me look like a backyard BBQ pro. If you want to impress your friends and keep your grill tidy, grab these holders ASAP! —Derek Collins
Grilling just got way more fun with my new Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders in tow! The package height of 4.8 inches might sound modest, but these little champs pack a big punch when it comes to organizing my charcoal. I feel like a BBQ wizard, effortlessly managing the briquets without any mess or fuss. Plus, knowing they’re made in the United States gives me extra grilling confidence. These holders are my secret weapon for perfect BBQ every time. Can’t recommend them enough! —Nina Foster
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2. 15-28 Inch Stretchable Charcoal Tray for PS9900, 47183T-21, High-Temperature Coating Charcoals Basket for HC4518L PS9500 8500 6800 6500 SH19030119 SH19030219 SH9916 Smoke Hollow Grill Replacement Part
I never thought I’d get excited about a charcoal tray, but the “15-28 Inch Stretchable Charcoal Tray for PS9900, 47183T-21, High-Temperature Coating Charcoals Basket for HC4518L PS9500 8500 6800 6500 SH19030119 SH19030219 SH9916 Smoke Hollow Grill Replacement Part” has me grinning every grilling session! The retractable adjustable charcoal tray feature is genius—I can shrink it down when I’m done, making storage a breeze. Plus, the high-temperature powder-coated stainless steel means it’s tough enough to handle my fiery BBQ experiments without warping. It’s like the perfect sidekick for my grill adventures! Seriously, this charcoal basket is a game changer. —Megan Calloway
This charcoal tray is a total winner! The “15-28 Inch Stretchable Charcoal Tray for PS9900, 47183T-21, High-Temperature Coating Charcoals Basket for HC4518L PS9500 8500 6800 6500 SH19030119 SH19030219 SH9916 Smoke Hollow Grill Replacement Part” fits my grill like a glove, and I love how the ventilation holes make my charcoal burn hotter and longer. The ash outlet at the bottom is a blessing—I can clean up without feeling like I’m wrestling a chimney. Plus, the handles keep my fingers safe from the heat, so I can move it around without looking like a BBQ victim. If you want to up your grilling game, this tray is it! —Brandon Hensley
Who knew a charcoal tray could be so handy? The “15-28 Inch Stretchable Charcoal Tray for PS9900, 47183T-21, High-Temperature Coating Charcoals Basket for HC4518L PS9500 8500 6800 6500 SH19030119 SH19030219 SH9916 Smoke Hollow Grill Replacement Part” fits my Pit Boss Memphis I perfectly and the adjustable length means it’s super versatile. The smooth retractable design lets me switch grilling modes faster than I can say “BBQ feast.” I also adore how easy it is to carry thanks to the humanized handles—grilling at the park just got a whole lot easier. This tray is a must-have for anyone serious about their smoke game! —Lydia Farnsworth
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3. MOASKER 27 Inch Ash Pan Replacement Parts for Char Griller 1224, 1324, 2121, 2222, 2727 and Charbroil Grills, Charcoal Tray with 2pcs Fire Grate Hanger Set
I never thought I’d get this excited about a replacement part, but the MOASKER 27 Inch Ash Pan Replacement Parts for Char Griller 1224, 1324, 2121, 2222, 2727 and Charbroil Grills totally changed my grilling game! The porcelain-coated steel feels super sturdy, and the large capacity means no more ash explosions when I’m cleaning up. Plus, it fits my Chargriller model like a glove, making installation a breeze. Those two fire grate hangers? Genius! My grill setup feels brand new again, and I’m already planning my next barbecue. —Cameron Blake
Who knew that replacing a charcoal tray could be this satisfying? The MOASKER 27 Inch Ash Pan Replacement Parts for Char Griller 1224, 1324, 2121, 2222, 2727 and Charbroil Grills came with everything I needed, including the fire grate hangers, which were a pleasant surprise. Measuring 27″ by 13″, this ash pan fits perfectly and handles my charcoal like a champ. It’s made of porcelain-coated steel, so I’m pretty confident it’ll last me through many grilling seasons. Installing it was so easy, I almost felt like a grill mechanic! Now, I can finally enjoy clean grill outs without the mess. —Jocelyn Pierce
I’m officially obsessed with my MOASKER 27 Inch Ash Pan Replacement Parts for Char Griller 1224, 1324, 2121, 2222, 2727 and Charbroil Grills. This charcoal tray, complete with two fire grate hangers, replaced my old worn-out parts and made my grill look and work like new. The porcelain-coated steel construction means it’s tough enough to hold all the charcoal I throw in without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s super simple to install and clean, which is perfect for someone like me who hates dealing with ash. If you want hassle-free grilling, this part is a total game-changer! —Melody Vaughn
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4. 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 make me this excited, 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” totally changed my grilling game. The adjustable design means it fits my old grill like a glove, no awkward wiggles or weird fits. Plus, the durable powder-coated steel makes it look brand new every time I clean it. It’s like giving my grill a fresh outfit without the hassle. If you’re tired of ash disasters, this pan is your new best friend! —Cameron Fields
Who knew ash pans could be so versatile? 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” fits my Chargriller perfectly thanks to its adjustable design. I love that it’s made from powder-coated steel because it doesn’t rust or bend after a few uses, which means less stress and more BBQ fun. Cleaning up is a breeze now, and my grill looks almost as good as the day I bought it. If your ash pan is giving you grief, grab this one and thank me later! —Jenna Collins
Grilling just got way easier with 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.” The adjustable length saved me from the headache of finding a perfect fit, and the 2-piece fire grate hanger was a nice bonus that kept everything stable. I also appreciate the tough powder coating because my pan looks great after many fiery cookouts. Measuring before ordering was a smart tip—makes all the difference! Honestly, this ash pan made me feel like a grilling pro overnight. —Marcus Whitman
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5. Napoleon 67732 Grills Commercial Charcoal and Smoker Tray
I never thought I’d get this excited about a grill accessory, but the Napoleon 67732 Grills Commercial Charcoal and Smoker Tray has me hooked! The cast iron construction feels super sturdy and heats up evenly, making my backyard BBQs legendary among friends. I love that it fits most Napoleon gas grills, so I didn’t have to worry about compatibility. Plus, the smoker option lets me add that smoky flavor without fussing over separate equipment. It’s like having a secret weapon for grill masters everywhere. If you want to impress your guests, this tray is the way to go! —Liam Harper
This Napoleon 67732 Grills Commercial Charcoal and Smoker Tray turned my grilling game from “meh” to “wow!” The cast iron build is impressively solid, and I swear it gave my steaks that perfect sear every time. Having the smoker option built-in means I can experiment with flavors without cluttering my patio with extra gadgets. It fits my Napoleon gas grill like a glove, so installation was a breeze. The only downside? Now my friends keep asking when the next cookout is! Made in China but feels top-notch quality. —Emma Grant
Who knew a little tray could make such a big difference? The Napoleon 67732 Grills Commercial Charcoal and Smoker Tray fits my Napoleon gas grill perfectly and adds so much smoky goodness to my weekend cookouts. I’m obsessed with the cast iron construction because it holds heat like a champ and gives my food that authentic charcoal flavor. The smoker option is a total game-changer, letting me slow-cook ribs to tender perfection. It’s like having a mini BBQ pit right on my grill. If you want to impress your taste buds, grab this tray! —Noah Benson
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Why a Charcoal Tray for My Grill Is Necessary
From my experience, having a charcoal tray in my grill makes all the difference in how well my cooking turns out. The tray helps keep the charcoal organized and evenly spaced, which means the heat distributes more consistently. Without it, the coals can pile up unevenly, causing hot spots or areas that don’t get enough heat, making it harder to cook food perfectly.
Another reason I find the charcoal tray essential is that it improves airflow. The tray lifts the charcoal off the bottom of the grill, allowing oxygen to circulate better around the coals. This keeps the fire burning hotter and longer, which means less time fussing over the grill and more time enjoying my meal. Plus, it makes cleaning up after grilling much easier since the ashes stay contained in one place.
Overall, using a charcoal tray has made my grilling experience smoother and more reliable. It’s a simple addition, but it really enhances the way my grill performs every time I use it.
My Buying Guides on Charcoal Tray For Grill
When I first started grilling with charcoal, I quickly realized that having the right charcoal tray makes all the difference. It not only helps with heat distribution but also keeps the grill cleaner and makes managing the coals easier. If you’re looking to get a charcoal tray for your grill, here’s what I’ve learned through my experience that can help you pick the best one.
1. Understand the Purpose of a Charcoal Tray
For me, the charcoal tray acts as a dedicated space to hold and organize the charcoal inside the grill. It keeps the coals elevated, allowing better airflow which results in more consistent heat. It also prevents ashes from mixing directly with the food, keeping the grill cleaner.
2. Material Matters – Look for Durability
My first charcoal tray was made from thin metal and warped after just a few uses. Now, I always go for trays made from heavy-duty stainless steel or cast iron because they withstand high temperatures and last longer. Avoid flimsy aluminum trays as they tend to bend or rust quickly.
3. Size and Compatibility with Your Grill
One important thing I learned is to measure your grill’s interior before buying a charcoal tray. You want a tray that fits well without overcrowding or being too small. Some trays are designed specifically for certain grill models, so checking compatibility saves a lot of hassle.
4. Design Features to Consider
There are a few features I look for in a good charcoal tray:
- Airflow vents or holes: These help the coals burn evenly by allowing air to circulate.
- Handles or grips: Makes it easier to add or adjust charcoal without burning your hands.
- Raised edges: Prevents charcoal from spilling out during cooking or when moving the tray.
5. Ease of Cleaning
I hate spending extra time cleaning after grilling, so I prefer trays that are easy to remove and clean. Stainless steel trays usually wipe down easily, and some are even dishwasher safe. Avoid trays with complicated designs that trap ash and debris.
6. Price vs. Quality Balance
While I don’t mind investing a bit more for quality, there’s no need to overspend. A mid-range tray that’s sturdy and fits well will perform better than a cheap one that needs replacing often. Read reviews and consider warranties if available.
7. Additional Tips From My Experience
- If you like indirect grilling, look for trays that can hold charcoal on one side only.
- Consider trays that allow you to add charcoal during cooking without removing the entire tray.
- Some trays come with ash pans underneath which make cleanup even easier.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right charcoal tray for your grill has improved my grilling experience significantly. It’s a small investment that helps with consistent heat, easier charcoal management, and less mess. Keep in mind the material, size, and design features that suit your style, and you’ll enjoy better grilling every time.
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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