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The Best Grill Tongs That’ll Make You a Real BBQ Master
Written By Review Team at the Kitchen Institute
Grill tongs are a true essential for any barbecue enthusiast, offering the control and precision needed to handle food safely over an open flame. Whether you’re flipping burgers, turning vegetables, or serving hot dogs, a reliable pair of tongs ensures you can manage your grill with ease while keeping your hands safe from the heat.
Our top picks of the best grill tongs combine comfort, durability, and functionality, making them indispensable tools for grilling season. One standout option is the Cave Tools stainless steel tongs, praised for their sturdy construction and thoughtful design. With an optimal length for heat protection and a comfortable grip for added control, they’re ideal for both casual grillers and seasoned pitmasters.
The Best Grill Tongs of 2025
Cave Tools Grill Tongs
Best Overall
The Cave Tools stainless steel grill tongs are our top recommendation for barbecue enthusiasts, combining durability, functionality, and convenience. Measuring 17 inches in length, they provide ample reach to safely maneuver food over high heat while keeping your hands at a comfortable distance from the flames. Crafted from high-quality stainless steel, these tongs resist rust and wear, making them a reliable tool for frequent grilling. The built-in locking bracket adds an extra layer of practicality, ensuring easy storage and preventing the tongs from taking up unnecessary space.
These grill tongs are designed with comfort and control in mind, featuring an ergonomic grip that feels secure and natural in your hand. Whether you’re flipping delicate vegetables or turning thick, juicy steaks, they provide the precision and stability needed for any grilling task. The thoughtful design ensures effortless handling, even during extended cooking sessions, while the sturdy construction supports both light and heavy-duty use. For anyone seeking a reliable and versatile grilling tool, this pick delivers exceptional performance and durability, making it an excellent addition to any barbecue arsenal.
Grille Perfect Grill Tongs
Best Design
Grille Perfect’s heavy duty grill tongs offer a practical, well-designed solution for serious grillers. Our favorite feature is their impressive length, providing excellent control over both large cuts of meat and delicate vegetables. Made from durable stainless steel, these tongs are rust-resistant and built to last through many grilling seasons. The heat-resistant hand grips further enhance comfort and safety, allowing you to handle your food without worrying about burns or slips. Plus, the thoughtful design ensures a secure hold during long cooking sessions.
What really sets these tongs apart is the combination of strength, safety, and versatility. Available in three sizes, they give you the flexibility to choose the right length for your grill setup and preferences. Whether you’re looking for tongs to maneuver smaller items or manage larger cuts with ease, there’s a perfect fit. The heavy-duty construction ensures these tongs can withstand the rigors of frequent use without bending or warping. Whether you’re a casual weekend griller or an experienced barbecue host, these grill tongs offer the best design for both functionality and peace of mind.
Joinkitch Grill Tongs
Great Value
If you’re looking for a reliable set of grill tongs, the Joinkitch 16- and 12-inch grill tong set offers excellent quality and value. This set includes two heavy-duty tongs that cover all your grilling needs. The 16-inch tong provides ample reach, keeping your hands safely away from the heat, while the 12-inch tong offers more precise control for smaller tasks. Made from durable materials, these tongs are built to last, ensuring they’re ready for countless cookouts and family gatherings.
We like that the combination of two sizes makes this set highly versatile, allowing you to handle a wide variety of foods — from flipping burgers and hotdogs to managing larger cuts like steaks and ribs. The comfortable grip reduces hand fatigue, even during longer grilling sessions. Whether you’re an experienced griller or just starting out, this set provides exceptional functionality at an affordable price. Perfect for backyard barbecues or camping trips alike, this grill tong set is a smart investment that will make your grilling experience more enjoyable and efficient.
OXO Grill Tongs
Best Quality
The OXO Good Grips grilling tools set is a must-have for any grilling enthusiast, offering both quality and functionality. This set includes a turner and grill tongs, each designed to make grilling easier and more efficient. The turner features a unique double-bend design, providing excellent leverage for flipping burgers, chicken, or vegetables with ease. The non-slip grips ensure a secure hold, even when your hands are greasy. Meanwhile, the tongs come with a scalloped edge, perfect for gripping and turning food without worrying about it slipping.
Made from durable stainless steel, we were pleased to learn that both tools are built to last and are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup. The bonus of a built-in bottle opener on the tongs is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to enjoy a cold drink while grilling. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, this set stands out for its thoughtful design and practical features. If you’re looking for reliable grilling tools that will enhance your cooking experience, it’s a top choice.
Hotec Grill Tongs
Most Reliable
Hotec’s stainless steel kitchen tongs set is a reliable and versatile tool for any kitchen. With a practical locking mechanism, these grill tongs stay securely closed when not in use, helping to keep your kitchen drawers organized. The non-slip grip ensures excellent control, whether you’re grilling or cooking indoors, making it easy to handle a variety of foods with precision. Made from durable stainless steel, these tongs are resistant to rust, ensuring they’ll last through countless meals and grilling sessions.
Available in a range of lengths, styles, and pack sizes, these grill tongs offer flexibility to suit different cooking needs. Their solid, sturdy feel provides confidence when handling both delicate and heavy foods. We appreciate that the locking mechanism adds an extra layer of convenience, making storage easy and clutter-free. While the design is simple, the focus on durability and functionality makes them a great value. The balance of quality and practicality makes this set a standout choice for any home cook.
Buying Guide: Investing in the Best Grill Tongs
Grilling is more than just cooking — it’s a craft, and the right BBQ tools make all the difference. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting, a reliable pair of grill tongs is essential for the safe and efficient handling of hot food. The best tongs offer a balance of durability, heat resistance, and a comfortable grip, allowing you to flip, turn, and move food with precision.
Look for features like a locking mechanism for easy storage, a length that keeps your hands safely away from the heat, and materials that can withstand high temperatures. Remember, investing in quality tongs not only makes grilling easier but also enhances the overall experience. With the right pair, you’ll be ready to take on any barbecue challenge.
Material
When choosing the best grill tongs, the material is one of the most important factors to consider; after all, It impacts both the durability of your tongs and the safety of your grilling experience. Stainless steel is a top choice due to its rust resistance, strength, and ability to withstand high temperatures.
Silicone-tipped tongs are excellent for use with non-stick grates, as they protect against scratches, though they may not handle extreme heat as well as metal options. In general, I’d say it’s best to avoid tongs with plastic parts, as they can melt or warp under grill temperatures. In any case, it’s crucial to look for materials that are durable, easy to clean, and built to last through many grilling seasons.
Length
The length of grill tongs might not seem like a big deal, but it can make all the difference in your grilling experience. Longer tongs, around 16 to 18 inches, keep your hands safely away from the heat while giving you better control over larger cuts of meat or when working on a wide grill. If you’re using a smaller grill or need more precision, shorter tongs might be the way to go. As a whole, it’s all about striking the right balance between safety and ease of use.
Grip and Comfort
A firm grip is key when it comes to grill tongs. Look for ergonomic handles that feel comfortable in your hand and offer a secure, non-slip hold — even if your hands are a bit greasy. Many tongs also feature rubber or silicone grips, which add comfort and help reduce hand fatigue during extended grilling sessions.
Additionally, the opening and closing mechanism should operate smoothly without requiring too much effort. A reliable grip is about far more than mere comfort; it gives you the control you need to flip burgers or turn steaks easily, ensuring every move feels effortless.
Locking Mechanism
A dependable locking mechanism might seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in your grilling experience. The best grill tongs feature a secure, user-friendly lock that keeps them closed when not in use, making storage simple and efficient. This is especially handy if you’re working with limited space or prefer a tidy grilling station.
Keep an eye out for tongs with a pull-tab or push-lock system that you can operate with one hand for added convenience. Not only does this save space, but it also helps protect your tongs from unnecessary wear and tear, meaning they’ll stay in great shape for many grilling sessions to come.
Heat Resistance
Heat resistance is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing grill tongs, as it directly affects both safety and performance. Look for tongs designed to handle high temperatures without bending or warping. Stainless steel options are typically a safe bet for durability, while silicone-tipped tongs should be rated to withstand at least 400 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
High-quality, heat-resistant tongs let you confidently manage your food without worrying about the tool failing or your hand getting uncomfortably hot. The last thing you want is for your tongs to give out mid-grill session, so make sure they’re built to handle the heat.
Versatility
Versatility can take your grilling game to the next level. Some grill tongs go beyond the basics, offering features like built-in bottle openers, serrated edges for a firmer grip, or even a spatula on one side for flipping delicate foods like fish.
These multi-functional designs streamline your grilling setup by reducing the need for extra tools, making your workspace more efficient. While standard tongs are perfectly fine for everyday use, a versatile pair can handle a wider range of tasks and elevate your overall experience. Consider the type of grilling you do most often, and choose tongs that can keep up with your culinary creativity.
Conclusion
Choosing the right grill tongs is all about finding the perfect balance of durability, comfort, and functionality to suit your grilling style. By considering key factors like material, length, grip, locking mechanisms, heat resistance, and added versatility, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable grilling experience.
With the right pair of tongs in hand, you’ll be ready to handle everything from flipping burgers to searing steaks with confidence. Here’s to making every barbecue a success!
People Also Asked
What are grill tongs used for?
Grill tongs are important tools for handling food on a grill. They allow you to easily turn, flip, and transfer food items without piercing them, which helps retain their juices and flavor.
How do I properly use grill tongs?
To use grill tongs, hold the handle firmly and gently grasp the food with the tips. Avoid squeezing too tightly to prevent tearing or crushing the food.
What materials are grill tongs made from?
Grill tongs are often made from durable, heat-resistant stainless steel. Some models feature silicone or rubber grips, enhancing handling and comfort.
Can I use my grill tongs on a non-stick grill?
Grill tongs can be used on non-stick grills, but it is recommended to use tongs with silicone or rubber tips to avoid scratching the non-stick surface.
Are there specific grill tongs for different types of food?
While most grill tongs are versatile, some are specifically designed with features such as wider grips for larger cuts of meat or scalloped edges for delicate foods like fish.
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