Respect Your Budget

Setting a budget and sticking to it is a great starting point when it’s time to shop for a BBQ. This is definitely not the moment to break the bank for the latest high-tech BBQ. What matters most is that it meets your needs, matches your cooking skills, and, above all, is enjoyable to use.

Define Your Needs

Defining your needs is crucial to selecting the right type of BBQ. Is it just for grilling on weeknights and weekends? Do you want to explore long cooking times or smoking? Do you have a large space or just a small balcony? Do you have access to an electrical outlet? You should also consider your culinary skills. Are you a beginner or an expert? All of these factors are important in choosing the BBQ that’s right for you.

Types of BBQs

As mentioned in the previous section, your needs and cooking skills will help you determine the type of BBQ that suits you best.

Here are the different types of BBQs:

Propane or Natural Gas BBQ

If you plan to use it on weeknights, know that gas BBQs cook much faster. This type of BBQ is also suitable for beginners because it’s easy to use with a graduated knob for control. Gas BBQs come either on a cart or as built-in models for a designated module.

Things to Consider:

• Propane burns differently than natural gas, so choose one based on the fuel you already use.
• Switching fuels yourself can be dangerous.

Charcoal BBQ

This type of BBQ is better suited for slightly more experienced users, as temperature control is more complex. It depends on ventilation and the size of the charcoal used. For example, a large charcoal block has a smaller heating surface, allowing for slower cooking, while smaller charcoal pieces provide a larger heating surface, resulting in much higher temperatures.

Things to Consider:

• Ventilation is controlled in two places: above and below the BBQ. More ventilation brings more oxygen to the fire, while less ventilation extinguishes it.
• This type of control can have serious consequences—a fire can easily start if ventilation isn’t properly managed.

Pellet BBQ

This type of BBQ is much safer than charcoal and therefore more suitable for less experienced users. The temperature is controlled by an electric element, allowing you to adjust it to the exact degree. The auger feeds pellets slowly or quickly depending on the desired temperature.

Things to Consider:

• Must be plugged into a 120-volt outlet.
• Can be Wi-Fi connected for remote control via an app.
• Perfect for long cooking sessions or smoking for hours without needing constant monitoring.

Electric BBQ

This type of BBQ is ideal for people with small spaces or who love to travel, as it’s designed to be portable. However, you can purchase a separate cart for it. It can also be used indoors under a range hood.

Things to Consider:

• Must be plugged into a 120-volt outlet.
• Portable BBQ.
• Limited cavity size due to the energy demands of 120 volts.
• Cart sold separately.

Our Suggestions

Gas BBQs:

• Napoleon Rogue XT 425 SIB Propane Gas BBQ
• Weber Spirit SX-315 Propane Gas BBQ

Charcoal BBQs:

• Kamado Joe Kettle Joe Charcoal BBQ
• Weber Master-Touch Charcoal BBQ

Pellet BBQs:

• Traeger Pro 575 Pellet BBQ

Electric BBQs:

• Napoleon TravelQ PRO285E Electric BBQ
• Weber Q 1400 Electric BBQ