Is the best electric BBQ better than charcoal and gas? I tested five to find out

Using an electric barbecue is simple: plug it in, heat it up and you’re cooking in no time. Even the best charcoal barbecues take a while to get going and the best gas barbecues can still run out of fuel (I’ve been caught out mid-garden party by bad planning before). So, electric barbecues are growing in popularity and have the advantage of precise temperature control and fitting in smaller spaces where flames or smoke may otherwise be a concern.

The best electric BBQs range from around £80 for a basic model with no lid up to around £900 for sophisticated models, with grill and appliance brands like Char-Broil, Weber and Ninja all entering the market. You can cook on grill plates or griddles and choose portable models small enough to sit on a table or big enough to feed the whole family, like a traditional charcoal one. Some even provide woodchips to get that smoky barbecue taste.

The best electric BBQs: At a glance

How to choose the best electric BBQ

Electric barbecues come in all shapes and sizes: which is best for you depends on what you want to cook. Some offer straightforward heating so you cook on a grill plate, while others offer a wider range of functions like air frying and smoking. Some models let you swap the cooking surface, too: for example, by adding a pizza stone.

I spoke to Taylor Hawkins, outdoor barbecue buyer at John Lewis, who says: “Electric barbecues offer convenience with no need for charcoal or gas, faster start-up times, easy temperature control and lower running costs, meaning they’re energy efficient and great for everyday use.”

“Opt for a model with at least 1,500 to 2,000 Watts for efficient heating and quicker cooking. Temperature control is essential for versatility, while portability is key for those with smaller outdoor spaces,” adds Taylor.

I’ve tested a range of models, from large to portable, with a full range of options to choose from. “Searches for electric BBQs have doubled in comparison to this time last year, showing the increase in popularity among customers,” says Taylor.

How I test electric BBQs