From grill size and fuel type to outdoor space and cooking needs, discover everything you need to know to choose the perfect BBQ for your home and entertaining needs.
There’s nothing quite like the smell of sizzling food on a barbecue, whether you're flipping burgers for the family or entertaining a crowd on a sunny weekend. But with so many models, fuel types, and features available, choosing the right BBQ can be a challenge. To help you make the best decision, here are the key factors you should consider before buying your next grill.
1. How Much Outdoor Space Do You Have?
Start by measuring your outdoor area. If you're working with a small balcony, courtyard, or patio, space is at a premium—so a compact BBQ is your best bet. Options like a Charcoal Kettle Grill or a Single Burner Gas BBQ will provide that grilling experience without overwhelming your outdoor space. Compact models are also easier to store when not in use, especially during colder months.
If you’ve got a little more room to work with, a larger multi-burner gas BBQ can transform your outdoor space into a full-on cooking station. Just make sure you leave enough room for airflow, safe operation, and for people to move around comfortably. Ideally, you’ll want to position your BBQ in a sheltered area (from wind) and not too close to outdoor furniture.
2. How Many People Will You Be Cooking For?
Are you grilling for two, or feeding a crowd? This will significantly impact the size and type of BBQ you choose.
- Small gatherings (2–4 people): A compact gas or charcoal BBQ is perfect.
- Medium groups (4–8 people): A two-burner gas BBQ will give you more space and control.
- Larger gatherings (8+ people): Consider a three or four-burner gas BBQ or a larger charcoal grill with ample cooking surface. These models also allow for multitasking—cooking different foods at different temperatures.
3. Charcoal vs. Gas: Which BBQ is Right for You?
Understanding the difference between charcoal and gas BBQs can help you choose the one that matches your cooking style and lifestyle. Let’s take a look at the pro’s and con’s of both…
Charcoal BBQs
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Pros:
Delivers that classic smoky BBQ flavour; provides a traditional cooking experience.
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Cons:
Takes time to heat up to optimal cooking temperature; clean-up can be more a little more challenging!
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Ideal for:
Purists who love the ritual of grilling and prioritise those deep, smoky flavours.
We Suggest: Models like our Oscar Charcoal Kettle Grill (43cm) are compact and easy to store—great for smaller outdoor spaces.
Gas BBQs
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Pros:
Quick to start; simple temperature control; easier to clean thanks to removable grease trays and easy clean surfaces.
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Cons:
May lack the traditional smoky flavour (though wood chips can be added for extra flavour on some models).
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Ideal for:
Busy families, entertaining larger groups, or anyone who values convenience and speed.
We Suggest: Options range from lightweight, portable models like the Sahara Storm 2 Burner Semi-Portable Gas BBQ (perfect for camping or beach trips) to feature-rich, multi-burner BBQs like the Weber GENESIS E-315, where each burner is individually controlled, allowing for versatile cooking.
Sahara Storm 2-Burner Semi-Portable Gas BBQ
4. Portability and Storage
If you plan on taking your BBQ on the go—whether it’s a camping trip, beach day, or picnic—look for portable BBQs that are lightweight and come with foldable stands or carry handles. The Oscar Single Burner Portable Gas Grill, for example, is designed specifically for mobility and comes with a FREE stand and gas regulator.
Oscar Single Burner Portable Gas Grill
Also think about how easy your BBQ is to store. Compact, foldable, or wheeled models can make a big difference if you’ll be moving your grill around or stashing it away for the winter.
5. BBQ Accessories
At the higher end of the market, BBQs come with premium features such as:
- Side burners for cooking sauces or side dishes
- Warming racks
- Rotisserie attachments
- Thermometers and LED-lit controls
- Built-in storage for tools and accessories
Speaking of accessories, don’t forget the essentials: a good set of BBQ utensils is crucial for safe and effective grilling. Tongs, spatulas, skewers, gas lighter and a grill brush should all be on your checklist.
For all you pizza lovers, why not consider adding the Hacienda Firebox BBQ Pizza Oven. Yes you read correctly! This oven can be used with any gas or charcoal BBQ. Simply place it on the grill and the heat does the rest. In fact, not only does it cook the perfect pizza, you can use it to cook fish, meat, vegetables, bread, or biscuits too.
Hacienda Firebox BBQ Pizza Oven
6. Budget and Value
Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly starter BBQ or a feature-rich showpiece for your garden, there’s something out there for every price range. Entry to mid-range BBQs can still offer solid performance and reliability, while premium models bring additional convenience and versatility.
Here at Co-op Superstores our focus, as with everything we sell, is on providing you with the best value for money—we’ve sourced quality barbeques at affordable prices within every range.
Final Thoughts on Your BBQ Choice
Choosing the right BBQ comes down to how and where you plan to use it. Whether you’re craving the smoky flavour of charcoal or the speed and precision of gas, the perfect grill is out there. Consider your space, group size, lifestyle, and budget to find the BBQ that’s just right for you—and get ready to fire up some unforgettable meals. Now, all we need is for the sun to shine!
Check out our full Charcoal and Gas BBQ Collection.
Available for home delivery or Click & Collect at all 26 Co-Op Superstores locations across Munster.
