Find Out If DNKMOR Extra Large Charcoal Grill Lives Up to the Hype Review

Description

Grilling Performance

I’ve spent several weekends with the DNKMOR Extra Large Charcoal Grill, and let me tell you, this thing can handle a feast. The 477 square inches of porcelain-enameled cooking grates gave me enough space to grill steaks, chicken, and burgers all at once for a family barbecue, while the 272 square inches on the warming rack were perfect for toasting buns and keeping food hot. The heat distribution was fairly consistent across the cooking area, though I found that the edges tended to cool down faster. It’s worth noting that the adjustable charcoal trays are a game-changer. Using them to control the intensity of the heat on either side allowed me to sear meats on one side and slow-cook veggies on the other. My brother-in-law was jealous of this feature during our last cookout.

Cleaning

Cleaning this grill was both a blessing and a curse. The removable ash pan seemed like a dream at first—easy access and simple to pull out—but it ended up being a bit unwieldy when it was full of ash. I made the mistake of not emptying it often enough, and it became a messy job. The porcelain-enameled grates, on the other hand, cleaned up nicely with a little elbow grease and a grill brush. I did notice, though, that the chrome-plated warming rack needed extra care to avoid scratches. My kids found it hilarious watching me fuss over cleaning these racks, but hey, I like my equipment to last.

Portability & Storage

At 88 pounds, moving this grill isn’t exactly a walk in the park, but the four wheels (two standard and two universal) help a ton. I’ve rolled it across the patio multiple times to adjust for wind direction, and it felt sturdy enough. However, the foldable side tables were a mixed bag. They’re great for saving space in my garage, but one of them felt a bit wobbly when loaded with a tray of marinated ribs. I’d recommend being cautious about leaning too much weight on them.

Temperature Control

The built-in thermometer made monitoring the heat levels straightforward, but I wasn’t entirely sold on its accuracy. When I compared it to my digital meat thermometer, the grill’s gauge seemed to run about 15°F lower. Not a dealbreaker, but something to keep in mind. Adjusting the air vents helped a lot in maintaining consistent heat, though there was a slight learning curve in getting it dialed in perfectly. My youngest daughter actually got into the habit of “helping” me adjust the vents—she calls herself my BBQ assistant now.

Features

This grill packs a lot of features, and most of them are quite practical. The individual charcoal trays were a standout for me. Being able to lift and adjust them separately meant I could cook different types of food at their ideal temperatures simultaneously. The waterproof cover included with the grill was a nice touch, though it didn’t last long against Oklahoma’s relentless winds. I’d suggest investing in a sturdier replacement if you live in an area with harsh weather. The front charcoal doors made it easy to add more fuel mid-cook without disrupting the food, saving me from awkwardly lifting grates.

Durability

While the DNKMOR Extra Large Charcoal Grill looks sleek, the materials could use an upgrade in sturdiness. Several parts arrived slightly bent, which I was able to fix with some effort, but it was disappointing for a product at this level. The powder-coated steel has held up well so far, but I can’t help but wonder how it’ll fare after a full year of heavy use. The handles stayed cool to the touch, which was a nice safety feature, especially with kids running around, but the overall construction felt a bit flimsy.

Ease of Use

Assembly took me over two hours, and I’ll admit it was a test of patience. The instructions weren’t the clearest, and I had to backtrack a couple of times to fix errors. Once it was set up, though, using the grill was straightforward. The foldable side tables provided extra prep space, and the adjustable trays made cooking feel more controlled. My wife, who generally avoids grilling, even gave it a try and found it easy to navigate.

Warranty

A one-year manufacturer’s warranty is included, which offers some peace of mind, but I’d have liked to see a longer coverage period. Given the minor quality concerns I encountered, a more extended warranty would have been reassuring. I haven’t had to contact customer service yet, but reviews suggest they’re responsive enough.

Key Benefits

• The adjustable charcoal trays allow for precise heat control, making cooking multiple foods at once much easier.
• Generous cooking area with a warming rack, perfect for large gatherings or family meals.
• Built-in thermometer and front charcoal doors enhance convenience during grilling sessions.
• Foldable side tables and wheels improve portability and storage flexibility.

Areas for Improvement

• Assembly instructions could use significant improvement, as putting this together was unnecessarily time-consuming.
• Some materials, particularly the metal panels, feel a bit flimsy and prone to bending.
• The included waterproof cover wasn’t durable enough to withstand heavy wind and rain.
• Accuracy of the built-in thermometer could be better; a minor but noticeable flaw.

Competitive Options

Compared to other large charcoal grills on the market, this one holds its own in terms of features, but it does have its shortcomings. For instance, the Weber Performer Deluxe offers a more robust build and easier assembly, though it lacks the dual adjustable charcoal trays. Meanwhile, the Char-Griller E16620 Kamado gives better heat retention but doesn’t provide nearly as much cooking space. This DNKMOR model shines when it comes to versatility and cooking capacity, but it falls short on material quality and assembly experience. If you value size and customizable heat zones, this grill is worth considering, but those who prioritize durability might want to explore other options.

Price Performance

For its price point, this grill delivers decent value, especially when you consider the large cooking area and adjustable trays. However, the quality of materials and the cumbersome assembly process make it feel slightly overpriced compared to competitors. It’s a strong contender for those needing a large grill on a medium budget, but I’d recommend keeping an eye out for sales or discounts to get the best bang for your buck.

Additional information