Picking a barbie is a big call in an Australian home, so this BBQ buying guide keeps it simple. Gas BBQs are the most convenient for quick weeknight cooking. Charcoal BBQs and kamados give you smoky flavour and are great for slow cooking. Portable BBQs suit balconies, camping and small courtyards. Once you've picked a fuel type, size it to how many people you usually cook for.
BBQ types compared
| Type | Best for | Pros | Things to consider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas hooded | Families, weeknight cooking, entertaining | Fast heat-up, easy temperature control | Needs LPG bottle or natural gas connection |
| Portable gas | Balconies, camping, small spaces | Compact, easy to move and store | Smaller cooking area |
| Charcoal kettle | Smoky flavour, roasting | Great flavour, versatile | Takes longer to heat, more cleaning |
| Kamado | Low and slow, pizza, roasting | Excellent heat retention, very versatile | Heavy, learning curve |
| Built-in | Outdoor kitchens | Seamless look, often larger | Requires cabinetry and planning |
Gas BBQs
Gas barbecues run on LPG (bottled gas) or natural gas. They light at the turn of a knob, heat up quickly and make it easy to control temperature across different zones. A hooded gas BBQ also works like an outdoor oven for roasts, whole chickens and even baking.
What to check:
- LPG or natural gas: many models are set up for LPG. Natural gas versions or conversions must be connected by a licensed gasfitter.
- Burner count: more burners give you more zones and cooking area.
- Grill and hotplate split: grills give char lines, hotplates are ideal for eggs, onions and snags.
- Side burner: handy for sauces and sides.
- Rotisserie: some models support a rotisserie kit for slow-turned roasts.
How many burners do you need?
| Household / use | Suggested size |
|---|---|
| 1 to 2 people, balcony | Portable or 2 burner |
| 3 to 4 people | 3 to 4 burner |
| Large family, regular entertaining | 4 to 6 burner |
Charcoal BBQs and kamados
Charcoal barbecues give you that classic smoky flavour and the ability to cook directly over the coals or indirectly for roasting. Kettle-style charcoal BBQs are versatile and approachable.
Kamados are thick, insulated ceramic or steel cookers that hold heat very efficiently. They're excellent for low and slow cooking like brisket and pulled pork, and can also reach high temperatures for searing and pizza. Kamado Joe is one brand you'll find in our range.
Portable BBQs
Portable BBQs are perfect for apartment balconies (check your building rules first), caravan trips, beach days and small courtyards. Many have a hood for roasting, folding legs or a matching stand or cart. Popular compact models like the Weber Baby Q sit in our Weber collection.
Planning your BBQ area
Before you buy, look at where the barbecue will live:
- Measure the space including room for side shelves to fold out and for the hood to open fully.
- Think about wind. A sheltered spot makes lighting easier and keeps temperatures steady.
- Keep it close to the kitchen if you can, so carrying plates and trays is easier.
- Plan for shade. A covered patio protects both the cook and the BBQ, but make sure there's plenty of ventilation above the hood.
- Check the ground. A flat, stable surface such as pavers or a concrete slab keeps the BBQ steady.
Materials and build quality
- Stainless steel bodies resist rust and look sleek. Higher grades stand up better to coastal salt air.
- Cast iron grills and plates hold heat very well but need seasoning to prevent rust.
- Enamelled cast iron is easier to care for than bare cast iron.
- Cast aluminium bodies are light and don't rust.
If you live near the coast, a cover and regular cleaning will extend the life of any BBQ.
Cooking area and hood
Cooking area tells you how much food fits at once. Think about your busiest cook, such as a birthday or Christmas lunch, rather than a quiet Tuesday. A hood with a built-in thermometer gives you better control for roasting and lets you cook with indirect heat.
Brands to explore
We stock BBQs from Weber, Beefeater, Everdure by Heston Blumenthal, Napoleon, Broil King, Kamado Joe and Gasmate, among others. Browse the full BBQ and outdoor grill range or explore our Beefeater collection for hooded and built-in models. See all brands on our brands page.
Essential accessories
- A BBQ cover protects against sun, rain and salt air. See our BBQ covers and check the dimensions against your model.
- Long-handled tools, a meat thermometer and a grill brush. Find them in our BBQ accessories.
- Spare parts like burners, igniters and knobs keep an older BBQ going. See BBQ replacement parts.
- A spare gas bottle so you never run out mid-cook.
Simple safety and care tips
- Always use your BBQ outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
- Check gas hoses and connections regularly. A soapy water test can reveal leaks: bubbles mean gas is escaping, so turn off the gas and fix the issue before using the BBQ.
- Keep the BBQ clear of walls, fences, overhanging branches and anything flammable.
- Empty and clean the fat tray regularly to prevent flare-ups.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for setup and maintenance.
Related guides: Esky and Cooler Buying Guide, Bar Fridge Buying Guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is a gas or charcoal BBQ better?
Gas is better for convenience, quick weeknight meals and easy temperature control. Charcoal gives you smokier flavour and suits people who enjoy the process. Many keen cooks own one of each.
How many burners should my BBQ have?
For a household of three to four, a 3 to 4 burner BBQ is usually ample. Large families and regular entertainers often prefer 4 to 6 burners.
Can I use a BBQ on an apartment balcony?
Many people use portable gas or electric BBQs on balconies, but rules vary between buildings. Check your strata or building rules and the BBQ's instructions before cooking.
Do I need a BBQ cover?
A cover is one of the easiest ways to protect your BBQ from sun, rain and salt air, which helps reduce rust and fading. Choose a cover sized to your model.
