There comes a moment in every backyard griller’s journey when the allure of true, low-and-slow barbecue becomes an irresistible siren song. For me, it was the dream of smoky, fall-off-the-bone ribs and perfectly rendered brisket bark. The problem? A dedicated offset smoker felt like a massive commitment—in both space and cost. My patio was already home to a trusty kettle grill, and adding another large piece of equipment seemed excessive. I found myself caught in a common culinary crossroads: how do you dive into the world of Texas-style smoking without completely overhauling your outdoor cooking setup? The search for a flexible, high-value solution led me directly to a product that promised the best of both worlds: the Char-Griller E82424 Portable Charcoal Grill with Side Fire Box. It posed a compelling question: could this compact unit truly serve as both a capable portable grill for spontaneous trips and the engine for a serious backyard smoker?
What to Consider Before Buying a Charcoal Grill & Smoker Combo
A charcoal grill is more than just a cooking apparatus; it’s a key to unlocking a primal and deeply satisfying flavor profile that gas grills simply can’t replicate. It’s about the ritual of lighting the coals, managing the heat, and the unmistakable smoky essence infused into every bite. For enthusiasts looking to elevate their craft, a unit that doubles as an offset smoker attachment opens up a whole new universe of culinary possibilities, from pulled pork to smoked salmon. This dual-functionality is the primary benefit, offering incredible versatility and value in a single package.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the exact dilemma I was: the ambitious home cook who wants to explore authentic offset smoking without investing in a large, dedicated unit. It’s perfect for those who already own a compatible Char-Griller barrel grill or are planning to buy one, creating a modular system that can grow with their skills. It’s also a fantastic standalone option for campers, tailgaters, or apartment dwellers who need a heavy-duty portable grill. However, it might not be suitable for those who prioritize convenience above all else—the purist who wants a high-end, dedicated smoker from day one, or the griller who prefers the push-button ease of propane. For them, a dedicated smoker or a premium kettle grill might be a better fit.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Consider its dual life. As a portable grill, its 21″ x 18″ x 20″ footprint is compact enough for a car trunk or a small patio. When attached to a barrel grill, you must account for the added width. Measure your available space to ensure the full offset smoker configuration will fit comfortably and safely.
- Capacity/Performance: The 250 square inch cooking area is surprisingly generous for a unit this size. It’s ample for grilling for a small family (up to 12 burgers, the manufacturer claims) or for holding enough charcoal and wood chunks to smoke for hours. Performance hinges on airflow control, so look for well-designed, adjustable dampers.
- Materials & Durability: This is where budget models can fall short. The Char-Griller E82424 Portable Charcoal Grill with Side Fire Box uses heavy-gauge, powder-coated steel and cast iron grates. This is a significant step up from the thin, flimsy metal found on many cheaper portable grills and is crucial for heat retention and longevity. The cast iron grates, in particular, are a premium feature that delivers superior sear marks.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Charcoal cooking involves cleanup. A feature like a removable ash pan is a non-negotiable for easy maintenance. Look at the handle design for safe operation when hot and consider the long-term care. As we’ll discuss, the finish on this unit requires some specific attention to maximize its lifespan.
While we believe this Char-Griller model is a fantastic entry point, understanding the broader market is key to making a confident purchase.
While the Char-Griller E82424 Portable Charcoal Grill with Side Fire Box is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
First Impressions and Key Features: Heavy-Duty Build with a Few Surprises
Upon unboxing the Char-Griller E82424 Portable Charcoal Grill with Side Fire Box, the first thing we noticed was its heft. At nearly 37 pounds, this is not a flimsy, disposable tailgate grill. The heavy-gauge steel construction feels substantial and immediately inspires confidence, a sentiment echoed by users who were “surprised how thick the metal is and how heavy duty it feels.” Assembly was straightforward, with clear instructions. When building it as a standalone unit with the included legs, it took us less than 20 minutes. The real test, however, is attaching it to a larger barrel grill. Heeding the advice of other owners, having a second person is helpful, though one clever user noted that propping the firebox on its own shipping box can align it perfectly for a one-person installation. The cast iron grates are thick and weighty, promising excellent heat retention. The overall fit and finish felt first-rate right out of the box, with one notable exception that we’ll explore in-depth later—the powder-coated finish.
Advantages
- Exceptional 2-in-1 versatility as a portable grill or offset firebox
- Heavy-gauge steel and cast iron grate construction for durability
- Effective dual dampers provide precise temperature control
- Generous 250 sq. inch cooking area for its compact size
- Easy-Dump Ash Pan simplifies cleanup
Drawbacks
- Exterior paint is prone to bubbling and peeling under high heat
- Occasional quality control issues with parts have been reported
From Portable Grill to Smoking Powerhouse: A Performance Breakdown
A product that promises to do two things well often masters neither. We were eager to put the Char-Griller E82424 to the test to see if it could defy that stereotype. Our evaluation involved using it in both of its intended configurations: first as a standalone portable grill, and then as the heart of a Texas-style offset smoker attached to a Char-Griller barrel grill. Over several weeks of cooking everything from simple burgers to a 10-hour pork shoulder, we gained a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and weaknesses.
The Assembly Experience: A Tale of Two Setups
The initial setup process truly depends on your intended use. As a portable grill, assembly is a breeze. We had the legs and handle attached in about 15 minutes with just a few basic tools. The instructions are clear, and all parts were present. In this configuration, it’s a sturdy, self-contained unit ready for action. One user noted they assembled it in “10-15 mins,” which matched our experience perfectly.
Attaching it as a side fire box to a larger grill, like the Char-Griller 5050 Duo, is a more involved process. The unit’s weight makes alignment a challenge. While many videos and instructions suggest two people, we successfully used the “propped on its box” method mentioned by one owner, which worked remarkably well for a solo installation. The hardware lines up with compatible models, but this is where some user-reported issues can surface. A few owners mentioned that the sheer weight of the firebox can cause the main grill’s thinner side panel to bow slightly. One user planned to “head to the local hardware store to cut longer spacers to support the extra weight.” While we didn’t experience severe bowing, we could see how it might occur. It’s a point to be mindful of—ensure all bolts are tight, and consider adding a support bracket if you notice any strain on your main grill’s body. Despite these minor challenges, the transition from box to fully functional smoker felt achievable for anyone with basic DIY skills and took about an hour.
Grilling Performance: Small Footprint, Big Flavor
As a standalone charcoal grill, the Char-Griller E82424 Portable Charcoal Grill with Side Fire Box is a formidable performer. The 250 square inches of cooking space proved to be the sweet spot for portability and utility. We comfortably grilled six large burgers with room to spare, and it easily handled a half-dozen chicken thighs for a weeknight dinner. The star of the show here is the set of thick cast iron grates. They retain heat beautifully, creating those coveted, deep sear marks on steaks and chops. This is a feature that truly elevates it above standard portable grills with their flimsy, thin wire racks.
Temperature management is another area where it shines. The dual adjustable dampers—one on the side and one on the smokestack—provide surprisingly nuanced control over airflow. We could easily set it up for high-heat searing by opening both vents wide, or dial it back for a slower, more gentle cook, a sentiment shared by one user who loves to “slow cook with vents almost closed.” The heavy steel construction helps maintain a steady temperature once you’ve found your target. Cleanup, often the bane of charcoal grilling, is simplified by the slide-out ash pan. After the coals have cooled, you simply pull the drawer and dump the ash—a quick and convenient design that we came to appreciate greatly.
The Art of the Offset Smoke: Turning Your Grill into a Texas Smoker
This is the primary reason many will purchase the Char-Griller E82424 Portable Charcoal Grill with Side Fire Box, and we can confirm it transforms a standard barrel grill into a highly capable offset smoker. Once attached, the workflow is classic Texas BBQ: build your fire of charcoal and wood chunks in the side fire box, and let the heat and smoke draft across the food in the main chamber and out the chimney. We were immediately impressed with its ability to maintain a consistent “low and slow” temperature. After a bit of initial vent adjustment, we had it holding a steady 250°F for hours with minimal intervention.
One reviewer, a former Weber Smokey Mountain owner, praised it for keeping “a steady low and slow temperature” and noted it was “easy to add coal/wood.” Our experience was identical. The side access door on the firebox makes adding more fuel or wood chunks during a long cook simple, without having to open the main cooking chamber and release precious heat and smoke. Our first smoke was a rack of St. Louis-style ribs and a dozen chicken wings. The results were fantastic—a beautiful mahogany color, a distinct smoke ring on the ribs, and juicy, flavorful meat. For anyone looking to get into smoking, this setup is arguably the best budget-friendly option on the market, providing the authentic offset experience that is crucial for classic barbecue.
The Durability Dilemma: Acknowledging the Achilles’ Heel
No product is perfect, and the Char-Griller E82424 has one widely-documented flaw: the exterior paint. The powder-coated finish, while looking great out of the box, is simply not rated for the intense, direct heat generated inside a firebox. As instructed, we performed an initial seasoning burn before cooking any food. Within an hour, we witnessed exactly what numerous users have reported: the paint on the lid and upper sections began to bubble, crack, and flake off, exposing the bare metal underneath. One user stated, “I’ve had it less than a month and the finish is already flaking off which will allow it to rust faster.” Another confirmed, “the smoker box gets really hot and flakes off the factory paint. After the first burn, the new one did the same thing.”
While disappointing, this issue should be viewed as a known trade-off for the unit’s affordable price and heavy-duty build. It is a cosmetic problem that can become a durability problem if left unaddressed. We followed the advice of veteran owners: after the initial peel, we used a wire brush to remove the loose paint and applied a few coats of high-temperature grill paint. This simple, inexpensive fix resolved the issue completely and should be considered a necessary step in the setup process. It’s a frustrating quirk but one that is easily remedied, ensuring the heavy steel body lasts for many years. You are investing in excellent functionality and solid materials, but you may need to invest an extra hour of your time to give it the heat-proof finish it deserves. For those willing to make this small effort, the value is undeniable.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, user feedback for the Char-Griller E82424 Portable Charcoal Grill with Side Fire Box paints a clear picture of a product that delivers exceptional value and performance, albeit with a significant caveat. The positive sentiment is overwhelming, with many calling it the “best budget charcoal grill/smoker combo.” One happy owner summed it up perfectly: “The product is well made and assembly was simple… All parts were included and the final fit and finish is first rate.” Many, like us, praise the heavy-duty materials and the excellent results, stating, “First smoke was wings and ribs, and they came out great.”
However, the negative feedback is just as consistent and focuses on two key areas. The most prevalent complaint, by far, is the paint peeling. As one user bluntly put it, “the factory paint…bubbled and peeled off” during the very first seasoning burn. This is an issue prospective buyers should expect. The second area of concern is occasional quality control. We saw reports of missing parts (“I only received 1 iron grate, missing one”) and manufacturing defects like a “Lid handle was too short on only one side.” While these appear to be less common, they highlight potential inconsistencies that can be frustrating for a new owner.
How Does the Char-Griller E82424 Stack Up Against the Competition?
The Char-Griller E82424 occupies a unique niche, serving as both a portable grill and a smoker attachment. To understand its place in the market, it’s best to compare it against specialists in three distinct categories: ultra-portability, premium kettle grilling, and all-in-one smoker grills.
1. Gas One 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill
The Gas One grill is designed with one goal in mind: maximum portability. It is significantly smaller and lighter than the Char-Griller, making it the superior choice for those who prioritize ease of transport for camping, beach trips, or picnics. Its 3-point locking lid and compact design are perfect for the on-the-go griller. However, that portability comes at the cost of durability and cooking area. It lacks the Char-Griller’s heavy-gauge steel and cast iron grates, and its smaller size limits what you can cook. The Gas One is the better choice for the minimalist camper; the Char-Griller is for someone who wants a robust, portable grill that doesn’t compromise on build quality.
2. Weber Performer Deluxe 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
The Weber Performer Deluxe represents the premium end of the kettle grill market. It’s a feature-rich, all-in-one grilling station, boasting a Touch-N-Go gas ignition system, a built-in work table, a timer, and Weber’s legendary build quality. It excels at traditional grilling and offers a massive ecosystem of accessories. However, it is not an offset smoker, and achieving true low-and-slow barbecue requires specific techniques (like the “snake method”) that are less intuitive than the offset process. The Weber is the choice for the serious griller who values convenience and brand reputation above all, and is willing to pay a premium for it. The Char-Griller system offers a more authentic path to smoking for a fraction of the price.
3. Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30″ Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker
The Royal Gourmet CC1830S is a direct competitor in the budget offset smoker category, but it’s an integrated, all-in-one unit. With 811 total square inches of cooking space, it’s a much larger machine designed to stay put in your backyard. This is the better choice for someone who knows they want a dedicated, large-capacity offset smoker from the start and has no need for portability. Its primary drawback is its lack of flexibility. You can’t detach the firebox to take it on a camping trip. The Char-Griller E82424 offers a modular approach; you get a fantastic portable grill and the ability to create a large offset smoker, providing two distinct functions in one purchase.
The Final Word: Is the Char-Griller E82424 the Right Choice for You?
After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the Char-Griller E82424 Portable Charcoal Grill with Side Fire Box is an exceptional piece of equipment that delivers on its promise of versatility. It’s a well-built, heavy-duty portable grill that punches far above its weight class, thanks to its cast iron grates and solid steel body. As a side fire box, it is the most accessible and effective entry point into the world of authentic offset smoking available today. The ability to add this single component to a standard barrel grill and produce top-tier barbecue is a game-changer for the budget-conscious enthusiast.
Its only significant flaw—the non-high-temperature paint—is a predictable and fixable issue that should be viewed as a minor hurdle rather than a dealbreaker. For the price, the quality of the core components is simply unmatched. If you are a backyard cook eager to explore smoking, a camper who refuses to settle for a flimsy grill, or a griller who values modularity and performance, this is an enthusiastic recommendation. It empowers you to elevate your barbecue game without breaking the bank. For its incredible dual-functionality and robust construction, the Char-Griller E82424 is one of the best values in outdoor cooking, and you can check its latest price and availability here.