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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Chimney Starters

Lighter fluid is for amateurs. We compared chimney starters for speed, capacity, and build quality—because the right chimney makes charcoal grilling almost as easy as gas.

Last updated: January 28, 2026

Best Overall Comparison All Products User Reviews Buying Guide FAQ

Best Overall Our top recommendation

Best Overall

Weber

Rapidfire Chimney Starter

4.8 (34,567 reviews)

The chimney that set the standard. Fill with charcoal, light newspaper underneath, wait 15-20 minutes. No lighter fluid taste.

Capacity

5.5 lbs

Material

Aluminized steel

Handle

Heat shield

Design

Cone-shaped grate

Pros

✓ The standard everyone copies
✓ Cone-shaped for airflow
✓ Heat shield handle

Cons

✗ Basic design
✗ Gets hot
✗ No innovations

$18

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Head-to-Head Comparison

Product	Rating	Price	Action
Rapidfire Chimney Starter Best Weber	4.8	$18	View
Half-Time Chimney Starter Value Char-Broil	4.5	$15	View
Charcoal Chimney Starter Char-Griller	4.4	$13	View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall

Weber

Rapidfire Chimney Starter

4.8 (34,567 reviews)

The chimney that set the standard. Fill with charcoal, light newspaper underneath, wait 15-20 minutes. No lighter fluid taste.

Capacity

5.5 lbs

Material

Aluminized steel

Handle

Heat shield

Design

Cone-shaped grate

Pros

✓ The standard everyone copies
✓ Cone-shaped for airflow
✓ Heat shield handle

Cons

✗ Basic design
✗ Gets hot
✗ No innovations

$18

View on Amazon

Best Value

Char-Broil

Half-Time Chimney Starter

4.5 (8,765 reviews)

Does what the Weber does for less money. The pour spout is actually clever.

Capacity

5 lbs

Material

Aluminized steel

Handle

Stay-cool

Features

Pour spout

Pros

✓ Budget Weber alternative
✓ Integrated pour spout
✓ Works well

Cons

✗ Less refined
✗ Handle gets warmer
✗ Second-tier brand

$15

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Budget Pick

Char-Griller

Charcoal Chimney Starter

4.4 (12,345 reviews)

The cheapest chimney that still works. Thin metal means it wont last forever, but at this price, who cares?

Capacity

6 lbs

Material

Steel

Handle

Dual design

Weight

Light

Pros

✓ Lowest price
✓ Large capacity
✓ Gets the job done

Cons

✗ Thinner metal
✗ Less durable
✗ Basic construction

$13

View on Amazon

Buying Guide: How to Choose Chimney Starters

How to Choose a Chimney Starter

Why You Need One
Lighter fluid leaves chemical taste, flares unpredictably, and isnt necessary. Chimney starters use airflow to light charcoal cleanly in 15-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chimney Starters

How long does a chimney starter take?

15-20 minutes for briquettes, 10-15 for lump. Coals are ready when top ones are ashed over.

What do I use to light the newspaper?

Long matches, grill lighter, or fire starters. Avoid lighter fluid—defeats the purpose.

Why Trust Our Recommendations?

We analyze thousands of real customer reviews, compare product specifications, and curate recommendations so you can make an informed decision without the research hassle.

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