Charcoal, Wood & Fuel
Fuel affects heat, burn time and flavour. Lump charcoal, briquettes, wood chunks, chips and pellets each have strengths for grilling and smoking.
Best Lump Charcoal (2026)
Find the best lump charcoal for 2026. Compare burn temperature, wood source, and low-ash options for hotter, cleaner, more natural grilling fuel.
Best Charcoal Briquettes (2026)
Compare the best charcoal briquettes of 2026 by burn time, consistency, and ash output. Find steady, long-lasting fuel for low-and-slow grilling and smoking.
Best Wood Chips for Smoking (2026)
Discover the best smoking wood chips of 2026. Compare wood types like hickory, apple, and mesquite to add rich smoke flavour to grilled meats and fish.
Best Wood Chunks for Smoking (2026)
Compare the best smoking wood chunks of 2026. Explore hickory, oak, and fruit woods that burn slowly for deep smoke flavour on long low-and-slow cooks.
Best Wood Pellets for Grilling (2026)
Find the best grilling wood pellets for 2026. Compare hardwood blends, flavour profiles, and low-ash options for pellet grills and smokers.
Best Charcoal Chimney Starters (2026)
Compare the best chimney starters of 2026. Explore capacity, handle design, and build quality for lighting charcoal fast without lighter fluid.
Best Fire Starters for Grilling (2026)
Discover the best grill fire starters of 2026. Compare natural wax cubes, wood wool, and odourless options for lighting charcoal cleanly and reliably.
Best Charcoal Baskets (2026)
Compare the best charcoal baskets of 2026. Explore designs for two-zone cooking, indirect heat, and better airflow to control temperature on your grill.
How to choose
- Use lump charcoal for high heat and quick lighting.
- Use briquettes for steady, predictable long cooks.
- Add wood chunks for smoke flavour on charcoal.
- Store charcoal and pellets dry to prevent problems.
Common questions
Lump charcoal or briquettes?
Lump lights faster and burns hotter with less ash. Briquettes burn more evenly and predictably, which helps long, low cooks.
How much wood should I add when smoking?
A few fist-sized chunks at the start is usually enough. Too much smoke can make meat bitter.