Can the Himaly Portable Charcoal Grill Deliver for Outdoor BBQs? Honest Review

Description

Durability

While testing the himaly Portable Charcoal Grill, I was impressed by the stainless steel construction. The grill felt sturdy in my hands, and its rust-proof and heat-resistant design gave me confidence that it could handle high temperatures without warping. However, after a few uses, I noticed some issues with the paint at the bottom peeling off. This doesn’t affect functionality much in the short term, but it’s worth mentioning that rust could develop over time without proper care. Wrapping the base with aluminum foil, as suggested by another reviewer, helped mitigate this problem during extended use.

Ease of Use

Setting up this portable grill was surprisingly straightforward. It took me just a few minutes to rotate the legs, place the charcoal mesh, and set the grill rack in place. Even my friend, who isn’t particularly handy, managed to put it together without any hiccups during our camping trip. The compact size made it perfect for small outdoor spaces, and the foldable legs were a blessing when it came to packing it into the trunk of my car. Despite its simplicity, I found the sharp edges on the grill tricky to handle during cleanup, so it’s essential to be cautious.

Grilling Performance

This little grill exceeded my expectations when it came to grilling performance. I cooked four burgers and a few hotdogs simultaneously, and they turned out evenly cooked with that classic smoky flavor. The five adjustable vents on the sides allowed me to control airflow effectively, ensuring the charcoal burned steadily. For quick meals or small gatherings, it does the job well. However, don’t expect it to handle a feast for a large group—it’s definitely more suited for intimate barbecues.

Features

One of the standout features of this grill is its foldable and lightweight design. At just 3.03 pounds, I could carry it with ease, even during a hiking trip. The stainless steel frame is not only lightweight but also durable, making it a great option for those who love outdoor adventures. I particularly liked the removable grilling rack, which made post-cooking cleanup somewhat easier, though it still required effort to scrub off stubborn grease. The lacquered finish added a sleek touch, though it showed wear after repeated use.

Temperature Control

The five vents on either side of the grill were a game-changer. They allowed me to manage the heat distribution effectively, ensuring that my food cooked evenly. During one test, I grilled steaks to perfection by adjusting the vents to control the intensity of the flames. However, I wouldn’t recommend this grill for recipes that require precise temperature regulation, as the vent system, while useful, lacks the finesse of more advanced grills.

Warranty

The one-year warranty offered some peace of mind, especially considering the issues with peeling paint and potential rust. While I didn’t need to use the warranty, knowing it was available gave me confidence in the manufacturer’s commitment to standing behind their product.

Cleaning

Cleaning this grill was a mixed experience for me. On one hand, the removable grill rack made it easier to soak and scrub. On the other hand, the sharp edges of the stainless steel frame made it a bit tricky to wipe down without accidentally nicking my fingers. Additionally, the small size of the grill meant that ash and grease buildup occurred quickly, requiring frequent maintenance.

Portability & Storage

This grill’s portability was one of its strongest points. I took it to a picnic, a camping trip, and even used it on my apartment balcony. Its compact dimensions, 13.7″ x 9.7″ x 2.3″, made it easy to store in my kitchen cabinet or car trunk. The foldable legs stowed away neatly, and its lightweight build made carrying it a breeze. If you’re someone who values convenience and mobility, this grill is a fantastic choice.

Competing Products

Compared to other portable charcoal grills, such as the Weber Smokey Joe or the Cuisinart CCG-190, this one holds its own in terms of portability and ease of use. While the Smokey Joe offers a more robust build and larger cooking area, it’s not as lightweight or compact as this model. On the other hand, the Cuisinart grill has a more polished finish and is slightly easier to clean, but it lacks the foldable legs and vent control that make this product versatile for outdoor adventures. For the price, this grill offers a solid middle ground between affordability and functionality.

Bang for the Buck

I found this grill to be a great value for its price point. Its small size, portability, and decent grilling performance make it a worthwhile investment for casual outdoor cooks. While it doesn’t have the durability or advanced features of higher-end models, it’s perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly, portable option for occasional use. If you’re someone who enjoys grilling on the go but doesn’t want to shell out for a premium product, this grill delivers on its promise.

Perks

• Lightweight and portable; ideal for camping and picnics.
• Adjustable vents for decent temperature control.
• Removable rack simplifies cleaning.
• Compact design allows for easy storage.

Weaknesses

• Paint at the bottom tends to peel after use.
• Sharp edges make cleaning challenging.
• Small cooking area limits its capacity for larger groups.
• Prone to rust if not dried thoroughly after washing.

Additional information