The best barbecues to shop in Australia
Here are some of the best barbecues on the market; time to fire up! Read on for our top picks for gas, electric, charcoal, portable and built-in barbies.
The best gas barbecues
Weber family Q Q3100N LP in flame red, $800.10 (was $889.00), Myer
This much-loved model gets the family tick of approval for its speed of cooking and ability to cater to crowds whilst remaining an economic choice. It's also highly regarded for roasting, so it'll definitely continue to come in handy even after summer has long passed. Plus, this fire-engine red colour is to die for!
Beefeater Big Bugg portable gas BBQ with trolley, $899, Betta Home Living
As one of the most highly regarded barbecue brands in Australia, Beefeater does not disappoint with this easy-use portable BBQ. Featuring dual temperature control to allow for even cooking, a versatile plate grill, an integrated thermometer and a spring-assist hood, you'll be jumping at the chance to host the next family gathering.
Everdure by Heston Blumenthal Force LPG barbecue, $1199, Appliances Online
Featuring a high dome roasting hood that's available in a selection of retro shades, the Everdure boasts thoughtful style as well as design. Natural convection cooking is effortlessly achieved due to its high lid that allows 360 degrees of circulation around whatever you're cooking up. With fast ignition, interchangeable cooking plates and cast iron grills, this two-burner is a backyard staple in the style-minded home.
The best built-in gas barbecue
BeefEater 1200 Series Black 4 Burner built-in barbecue, $699, The Good Guys
For a non-portable, yet compact option, this BeefEater 1200 built-in barbecue makes a fine choice. Not only do the cast iron grill, large viewing window, built-in temperature gauge and warming tray make for an unmatched cooking experience, the design is ultra-sleek, and is sure to give your alfresco kitchen a lift.
The best portable barbecues
Weber Q Q2000N 3400043 LP in flame barbecue in red, $440.10(was $489.00), Myer
It wouldn't be a BBQ round-up without multiple Weber models, would it? Large enough to feed 10 people, this small but mighty barbecue can cook your steaks and skewers in under 10 minutes - and is portable for family camping holidays.
Weber Traveler portable gas BBQ, $699.00, BCF
Another great option for all the nature and outdoor lovers out there, this Weber Traveler barbecue is sturdy and easily portable, yet features plenty of space to cook up a meal on its cast iron plate and grill.
The best charcoal barbecues
Cuisinart portable charcoal barbecue grill, $47.62, Amazon
Ideal for weekend trips away, this portable Cuisinart grill with over 8500 five-star reviews on Amazon boasts affordability and simplicity in design. With ample cooking space, enamel-coating for strength and durability, a dual venting system, and an accessible ash tray, what more could you want?
Everdure cubeportable charcoal khaki barbecue, $229, Bing Lee
Created by celebrity chef, Heston Blumenthal, this barbecue is both experience and design-driven. Its simple, integrated accessories are easy to clean, lightweight and compact, making it perfect for picnics and camping. The lid doubles as a prep board and the unique in-built storage tray means you can carry your food along with ease. The design is also available in orange, stone and graphite.
The best electric barbecue
George Foreman indoor/outdoor electric barbecue with grill, $159, Betta
A staple in the world of grilling, George Forman products have long been hailed as some of the best. This indoor-outdoor barbecue provides the ultimate versatility – even if you live in a balcony-less apartment, you can still enjoy the taste of barbecued food. The ceramic coated steel grill plate is non-stick coated, the stand is removable and the parts are dishwasher safe. It's safe to say summer meals just got easier!
The advantages and disadvantages of gas barbecues
Gas barbecues are the most popular choice for easy grilling and outdoor entertaining. Not only are they quick to heat up, their low-maintenance usage and cleaning makes a gas BBQ the star of the show. There are a couple of cons, as with all cooking products, but for a family investment, gas is the way to go!
Advantages:
- Quick to heat up
- Easy to use and clean
- Produce consistent heat
- Can sear food well
- Less likely to flare up than charcoal barbecues
Disadvantages:
- Can be more expensive than charcoal barbecues
- Can produce more fumes
- Not as smoky as charcoal barbecues, which can affect the flavour of food
The advantages and disadvantages of charcoal barbecues
Charcoal barbies are known for their smoky quality and high temperature range. And surprisingly, they're often the most affordable as well! If you're into smoking your meats, this is the best choice for you. Be warned though, the clean up is sometimes as difficult as the cooking itself.
Advantages:
- Produces smoky flavour due to the lower burning temperature of charcoal – allowing the smoke to develop
- Can reach high temperatures
- More affordable than gas barbecues
- Can be used for smoking food
Disadvantages:
- Takes longer to heat up than gas barbecues
- Can be messy to clean
- Produces smoke, which can be a nuisance to those sensitive to smoke
- Can flare up, which can cause food to burn
The advantages and disadvantages of electric barbecues
Electric BBQs will never smoke out your backyard, and are known to be more energy efficient than gas or charcoal. The best benefit of an electric barbecue is that it can be used both inside and out! For versatility and ease of use, this is the best pick of the bunch.
Advantages:
- Clean and easy to use as produce minimal smoke
- Produce less smoke than charcoal barbecues
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- More energy-efficient than gas barbecues
Disadvantages:
- Can take longer to heat up than gas barbecues
- May not produce as much heat as gas barbecues
- Not as versatile as gas or charcoal barbecues as cannot smoke food or cook at very high temperatures
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