Outdoor grilling is a very integral part of American society. At almost every sporting event you will find tailgaters partying in the stadium parking lot before the game grilling hamburgers and hotdogs and drinking beer. This is a time-honored tradition that has been around for many years. Backyard grilling is also an American staple during the summer; especially during the 4th of July holiday.

Since charcoal grills are the least expensive type of grill available, it is a more popular type of grill for those who cannot afford the high price of a gas grill. For college students who like to tailgate, the smaller charcoal grill is especially popular. They are more convenient due to their portability, and there is no need to carry around a huge gas grill with a tank. Instead they only need to carry a small pit and a sack of charcoal.

Other than the portability and the cheap price, another advantage charcoal has over gas grills is that the charcoal infuses a more distinct taste into the meat. With a gas grill you will tend to get a slightly diminished flavor, considering the gas imparts no taste. In fact, most professional cooks prefer to use a charcoal grill to gas grills.

The main disadvantage of charcoal grills is its difficulty to start a flame. Unlike the gas grills push button start up, charcoal grills require a lot more work. This type of grill also more attention to operate compared to gas grills. Another disadvantage charcoal grills have is the mess after you are done cooking. The ash in the charcoal pit must be regularly cleaned out to have an effective flame in the grill. This can become a very tedious and time-consuming task.

With a charcoal grill the meat will taste better, and the grill itself is very inexpensive. If you do not mind the extra steps that come along with charcoal grills, then the rewards that come with it will be worth it.