· grilling pellets · 13 min read
Best Hardwood Lump Charcoal for Grilling: Top Picks for 2023
Take your grilling to the next level with the right choice of hardwood lump charcoal. Explore our top picks, each meticulously evaluated for performance, quality, and value.
Welcome to our curated guide to the best hardwood lump charcoal for grilling in 2023. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or just getting started, our comprehensive reviews and expert insights will help you make an informed decision. Read on to discover our top picks and unlock the secrets of exceptional grilling.
Overview

PROS
- 100% Natural Hardwood: Sourced from sustainably managed forests, our charcoal burns cleanly, infusing your food with a delectable, authentic wood-fired flavor.
- Optimal Heat Control: Experience precise heat control with Jealous Devil's consistent burn rate and high heat output, ensuring evenly cooked and juicy grilled meals.
CONS
- Premium Price: Jealous Devil charcoal is slightly more expensive than standard charcoal options.
- Can Produce More Ash: As a natural product, Jealous Devil charcoal may produce more ash than other charcoal types.
Unleash the true potential of your grilling with Jealous Devil All Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal. Crafted from the finest hardwood, this premium charcoal burns with an unwavering intensity, imparting an irresistible smoky flavor to your culinary creations. Its consistent burn rate and exceptional heat output empower you with precise temperature control, resulting in perfectly seared steaks, succulent chicken, and delectable vegetables.
Experience the unparalleled grilling experience with Jealous Devil's natural hardwood lump charcoal. As it burns, it infuses your food with an enchanting wood-fired aroma, amplifying the flavors of your culinary masterpieces. With Jealous Devil, you can confidently embark on a grilling adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

PROS
- 100% natural hardwood lump charcoal
- Reusable up to three times
- 18-hour burn times
CONS
- Can be more expensive than other types of charcoal
- May require a special charcoal starter to light
Kamado Joe Big Block XL Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to experience the true taste of fire. Made with 100% natural hardwood, this lump charcoal burns clean and hot, giving your food a delicious smoky flavor. With its 18-hour burn time, you can enjoy hours of grilling without having to worry about adding more charcoal and its reusable feature is quite efficient. However, it is more expensive than other types of charcoal and may require a special charcoal starter to light, but it is definitely worth the extra cost for the superior grilling experience it provides.

PROS
- Ignites effortlessly, offering rapid heat production for grilling.
- Generates a high temperature for optimal searing, imparting a succulent finish to dishes.
CONS
- Can produce more ash compared to other charcoals, requiring occasional cleaning of the grill.
- May not be suitable for extended cooking sessions due to its shorter burn time.
Prepare to elevate your grilling experience with Fire & Flavor Premium All-Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal! Crafted from carefully selected hardwood, this charcoal delivers an unparalleled grilling performance. Striking the perfect balance between quick ignition and intense heat, it effortlessly kick-starts your grill, allowing you to savor perfectly seared and flavorful dishes.
Fire & Flavor Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal produces minimal smoke and leaves behind a light, alluring aroma, enhancing the natural flavors of your culinary creations. However, it's worth noting that all-natural lump charcoal inherently generates more ash than other types. As such, periodic cleaning of the grill might be necessary to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, its shorter burn time might require replenishment during extended grilling sessions. But rest assured, the burst of heat and bold flavors it imparts are well worth any minor adjustments you may need to make. Ignite your passion for grilling with Fire & Flavor Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal and savor the tantalizing results it brings to your favorite grilled dishes!

PROS
- Crafted from a superior blend of oak, hickory, and cherry wood for an authentic smoky flavor
- Delivers exceptional heat and long-lasting burn time, ensuring evenly cooked and flavorful meals
CONS
- Slightly more expensive than other charcoal options
- May produce more ash than some alternative fuels
Experience the unparalleled joy of grilling with Rockwood Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal. This premium-grade charcoal is meticulously crafted from a blend of oak, hickory, and cherry wood, imparting an irresistible smoky flavor to your culinary creations. Ignite your grill and witness the exceptional heat and long-lasting burn time of Rockwood charcoal, ensuring perfectly cooked and tantalizingly flavorful meats, vegetables, and more.
Beyond its performance, Rockwood Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal is a conscious choice for eco-conscious grillers. Sourced from sustainably managed forests, this charcoal burns cleanly with minimal ash and harmful emissions, allowing you to enjoy guilt-free grilling sessions. Its natural composition also eliminates the use of fillers or additives, guaranteeing an unadulterated grilling experience.

PROS
- Natural hardwood composition for authentic smoky flavor
- Low ash content minimizes cleanup and grilling interruptions
- Easy-light formula ensures effortless ignition for hassle-free grilling
- Extended burn time with hotter temperatures for optimal grilling performance
- Versatile use for grilling, smoking, kamado, and kettle grills
CONS
- Slightly more expensive than briquettes
- May produce more smoke than briquettes
Indulge in the pinnacle of grilling with Mr. Bar-B-Q Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal, meticulously crafted to elevate your grilling experience to new heights. Its all-natural hardwood composition infuses your culinary creations with an authentic smoky flavor that tantalizes taste buds and evokes memories of open-fire cooking. The low ash content ensures minimal cleanup and uninterrupted grilling, allowing you to focus on the artistry of your craft. Fire up your grill with ease thanks to the effortless ignition formula, promising hassle-free grilling from the outset. Extensively tested by grill enthusiasts, this lump charcoal burns hotter and longer, maintaining optimal temperatures for grilling perfection. Embrace the versatility of Mr. Bar-B-Q Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal, suitable for a wide range of grilling and smoking methods, including kamado and kettle grills. Elevate your grilling game and savor the exceptional results that only premium hardwood lump charcoal can deliver.
While Mr. Bar-B-Q Premium Hardwood Lump Charcoal may come with a slightly higher price tag than traditional briquettes, its superior grilling performance and unparalleled flavor justify the investment. As with any natural hardwood lump charcoal, it may produce more smoke than briquettes, requiring appropriate ventilation during grilling. However, the authentic smoky flavor it imparts more than compensates for this minor inconvenience.

PROS
- Sustainably sourced from South American oak forests, ensuring environmental friendliness.
- Offers prolonged combustion with larger lump sizes and more consistent temperatures, enhancing grilling control.
CONS
- Occasional ash buildup may require periodic cleaning of grills or smokers
- Suggested lighting techniques may require practice for ideal ignition
Ignite your grilling adventures with FOGO's Premium Oak Restaurant Grade Hardwood Lump Charcoal. Sourced from sustainably managed South American oak forests, this 100% organic charcoal is not only environmentally friendly but also delivers exceptional grilling performance. With meticulous quality control, FOGO's charcoal guarantees consistent lump sizes for optimal airflow, resulting in prolonged combustion and unwavering temperatures. Whether you're a grilling enthusiast or a professional pitmaster, FOGO's hardwood lump charcoal grants you meticulous control over your grilling or smoking endeavors.
Experience the authentic smoky flavor of oak with FOGO's meticulously crafted charcoal. The larger lump sizes produce less ash compared to traditional charcoal, minimizing the need for frequent cleaning. While FOGO recommends specific lighting techniques, achieving ideal ignition might require some practice. Nevertheless, once ignited, FOGO's charcoal burns steadily and cleanly, elevating your grilling experience to new heights. Enhance your outdoor culinary adventures with FOGO's sustainable and high-performance hardwood lump charcoal, bringing the captivating flavors of a traditional wood-fired grill to your backyard gatherings.

PROS
- Burns cleaner and hotter than briquettes, enhancing grilling aromas
- Ignites quickly, saving you precious grilling time
- Sustains consistent heat, ensuring even cooking and maximum flavor
- Produces minimal ash, leaving your grill looking neat and tidy
CONS
- Can be messier to handle than briquettes
- May be more expensive than briquettes
Fuel your grilling passion with Cowboy Easy Light Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal. Crafted from premium hardwood, this charcoal delivers an exceptional grilling experience. Its unique lump form ensures a high-temperature burn, infusing your steaks and ribs with an irresistible smoky flavor. The natural wood composition produces minimal ash, minimizing cleanup and maximizing grilling delight.
Experience the ease of ignition with Cowboy's Easy Light feature. This charcoal lights quickly and effortlessly, saving you time and frustration. Whether you're a seasoned grilling pro or a weekend barbecue enthusiast, Cowboy Lump Charcoal is your go-to companion for unforgettable grilling moments.

PROS
- Burns hotter and longer compared to standard charcoal
- Minimal ash production which facilitates easy post-grilling cleanup.
CONS
- May produce excessive smoke when first ignited
- The bag can rip or tear easily if handled roughly
Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this premium hardwood lump charcoal! Crafted from 100% all-natural oak, this charcoal provides an intense heat that cooks food evenly and imparts a rich, smoky flavor. Say goodbye to the hassle of constant fuel top-ups; this long-lasting charcoal burns hot and for an extended period, ensuring you can savor every grilling moment without interruption.
Convenience comes hand in hand with this product. Ignite it effortlessly, and you'll be greeted with minimal ash production, making post-grilling cleanup a breeze. However, note that you might encounter some smoke during the initial ignition phase. The charcoal comes in a compact 6.6-pound bag, so storage is a cinch. Just be mindful of handling it with care, as the bag can be prone to tearing if excessive force is applied.

PROS
- Unleash the natural flavors of your grilling masterpieces with our 100% hardwood lump charcoal that burns cleanly and evenly.
- Indulge in the captivating smoky aroma that enhances the taste of your grilled creations and tantalizes your senses.
- Experience effortless grilling with large lump sizes that minimize ash production and extend grilling sessions.
CONS
- Might require more attention to maintain optimal temperature compared to briquettes.
Prepare to embark on an extraordinary grilling journey with 3317 Premium 100% Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal. This exceptional charcoal is meticulously crafted from the finest hardwood, ensuring an unparalleled grilling experience. Each lump burns with an unwavering consistency, delivering intense heat that sears your meats to perfection while infusing them with a tantalizing smoky flavor. Unleash the culinary artist within you and elevate your grilling game to new heights.
Our hardwood lump charcoal stands out with its remarkable ability to minimize ash production, allowing you to savor an extended grilling session without interruptions. The large lump sizes ensure optimal airflow, promoting an even burn that results in perfectly cooked dishes every time. Whether you're a seasoned grilling enthusiast or just starting your culinary adventures, 3317 Premium 100% Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal will empower you to create unforgettable grilling experiences that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

PROS
- Burns hotter and longer, delivering superior heat retention for optimal grilling performance
- Produces minimal ash, ensuring a clean and efficient burn that enhances the flavor of your food
CONS
- May require more frequent additions to maintain heat compared to briquettes
- Generate more smoke than other charcoal options, which some may find undesirable
Prepare to elevate your grilling game with B&B Charcoal Oak Lump Charcoal, the superior choice for discerning grill masters. This hardwood lump charcoal is crafted from 100% natural oak, renowned for its exceptional heat output and long-lasting burn. Its high carbon content ensures hotter and longer-lasting grilling sessions, providing you with the optimal heat control to achieve perfectly seared steaks, succulent ribs, and flavorful vegetables.
B&B Oak Lump Charcoal prides itself on delivering a clean and efficient burn that minimizes ash production. This not only simplifies cleanup but also enhances the taste of your grilled creations by eliminating unwanted bitterness. The minimal smoke emission allows the natural flavors of your food to shine through, creating a truly unforgettable grilling experience. Whether you're a seasoned grilling enthusiast or just starting out, B&B Oak Lump Charcoal is the perfect choice to ignite your grilling passion and achieve mouthwatering results.
In this article, we've meticulously compared and contrasted the top-rated hardwood lump charcoal options available. Through rigorous analysis of product attributes, including performance, quality, and customer reviews, we've identified the best performers in the market. Our featured brands, such as Jealous Devil, Kamado Joe, Fire & Flavor, Rockwood, Mr. Bar-B-Q, FOGO, Cowboy, Best of the West, and B&B Charcoal, represent the pinnacle of charcoal excellence. Our comprehensive guide provides valuable insights, empowering you to make a confident choice that will elevate your grilling experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best hardwood lump charcoal for grilling?
Our top pick for the best hardwood lump charcoal for grilling is Jealous Devil All Natural Hardwood Lump Charcoal, offering a combination of high heat, long burn time, and minimal ash production.
What factors should I consider when choosing hardwood lump charcoal?
When choosing hardwood lump charcoal, consider factors such as heat output, burn time, ash production, ease of ignition, and the type of wood used.
Is hardwood lump charcoal better than briquettes?
Hardwood lump charcoal is generally considered superior to briquettes due to its higher heat output, longer burn time, and more consistent burn pattern.
How long does hardwood lump charcoal take to light?
Hardwood lump charcoal typically takes around 15-20 minutes to light with a chimney starter.
What are the benefits of using hardwood lump charcoal?
Hardwood lump charcoal offers several benefits, including higher heat output, longer burn time, more consistent burn pattern, and a more natural flavor imparted to food.