Electric BBQ Finder: How to choose the right electric BBQ for all your outdoor cooking needs
Looking for a grill you can take anywhere? An electric BBQ is portable and easy to use, all you have to do is plug it in and wait for it to heat up.
We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!
Best Rated Electric BBQ Brand: Weber
There's a reason Weber is synonymous with BBQs, with the brand taking out the best electric BBQ award. Weber topped the list for ease of cleaning, cooking performance and safety features.
Quick facts about electric BBQs
- Electric BBQs are portable, convenient, and easy to set up and use.
- The most important factors to consider when comparing electric BBQs are the size of the grill plate and the price.
- Prices typically range from $150 up to around $700.
Compare electric BBQs
How do electric BBQs work?
While gas BBQs are the most popular choice among Australian outdoor cooks, electric BBQs are easier to use. All you have to do is plug your electric BBQ in at a powerpoint and switch it on.
Electric BBQs heat up quickly so you can get dinner on the table in no time at all. They also require minimal maintenance, are easy to keep clean and you don't have to worry about running out of gas when you're halfway through cooking a meal.
Due to their small size, electric BBQs are commonly a good choice for homes with limited outdoor space. And unlike BBQs that use an open flame and require ventilation, electric BBQs are much more suitable for use on undercover balconies. Electric BBQs are typically quite light in weight and are designed to be easy to transport to anywhere you have access to a power source.
How to compare electric BBQs
If you're shopping for an electric BBQ, you can compare BBQs from a range of manufacturers. Some electric BBQs are designed to only be used on a tabletop, but many also come with either a stand or a trolley so that they can be used just about anywhere you have access to a powerpoint.
Entry-level electric BBQs are priced around the $150 mark, with premium models typically topping out at around $700.
Before you decide on the best electric BBQ for your needs, make sure you consider the following factors:
Electric BBQs vs gas BBQs vs charcoal BBQs
Unsure whether an electric BBQ is the right choice? You also have the option of choosing a gas or charcoal BBQ.
- Gas BBQs. For versatility, ease of use and a great BBQ flavour, it's hard to go past a gas BBQ. Energy-efficient and quick to heat up, gas BBQs also make it easy to control the temperature. They're also available in a wide range of sizes, from compact two-burner units right up to eight-burner behemoths. Of course, you'll either need a gas connection or be willing to replace your gas bottle whenever you run out. Find out more about choosing one in our gas BBQ buying guide.
- Charcoal BBQs. These BBQs use charcoal as their fuel to heat and cook meat, producing moist and tender meat with a delicious smoky flavour. However, they do take a while to heat up and often produce a whole lot of smoke, so they're not a convenient choice if you're looking for a quick way to barbecue sausages and steaks for family and friends.
4 things to consider
Consider these four factors before you buy an electric BBQ:
- Limited choice. There's only a limited number of electric BBQs on the market, and you'll have many more options to choose from if you select a gas BBQ instead.
- Not as authentic. Critics of electric BBQs point out that these models don't produce the same authentic flavour you get from grilling meat and other foods over a flame. If that traditional BBQ flavour is important to you, an electric BBQ may not be the right choice.
- Not for large families. Electric BBQs are typically designed to be compact and portable. If you need to cook for a large family, an electric BBQ may not offer enough cooking space.
- Don't forget about maintenance. Proper maintenance will help you prolong the life of your BBQ. Make sure you clean it after each use and protect it from the elements whenever possible.
Best rated electric BBQ brand award breakdown
| Total Score | Overall rating | Value for Money | Cooking performance | Ease of cleaning | Safety features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Other | 8.54 | 4.75 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4 | 4.75 |
| Weber | 8 | 4.34 | 4.18 | 4.46 | 4.38 | 4.44 |
| Delonghi | 7.89 | 4.31 | 4.4 | 4.22 | 4.36 | 4.18 |
| George Foreman | 7.83 | 4.32 | 4.2 | 4.16 | 4.08 | 4.24 |
| Sunbeam | 7.81 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.28 |
| Smart | 7.65 | 4.1 | 4.34 | 4.22 | 4.24 | 4.2 |
| Primus | 7.59 | 4.2 | 4.27 | 3.77 | 4.13 | 4 |
| Euro Appliances | 7.52 | 4.23 | 4.13 | 4.13 | 4.18 | 3.72 |
Data: Finder Retail Brand Survey, 2020, Kantar. Metric out of 5 stars unless indicated. Methodology and more info. 
Previous Retail Awards
More guides on Finder
-
Best ovens in Australia
If you’re shopping for a new oven, these are the best ovens you can buy right now to fit all types of kitchens.
-
Best hot water systems in Australia
We’ve compared dozens of products and read hundreds of customer reviews to find the best hot water systems in Australia.
-
7 best power stations in Australia 2021: Portable batteries
What is the best portable power station you can buy in Australia? Here’s how to choose the right battery pack for your next camping or four-wheel driving trip.
-
Cheap gas providers in SA
Compare gas plans from South Australia providers. Find a better deal and switch today.
-
Best chainsaws in Australia
We’ve scoured customer reviews and compared key specs to find the best chainsaws in Australia.
-
Best cordless and electric screwdrivers in Australia
From the top model to the best small cordless screwdriver, these are the four best cordless and electric screwdrivers you can get in Australia right now.
-
How to switch your electricity provider
Switching electricity plans should be easy. Find out what to consider in choosing the best energy plan to switch to in our guide.
-
How to build your personal brand in 2021
Want to get ahead in your career? Entrepreneur and marketer Sharon Williams explains why your personal brand could be the key to success.
-
How to start an electrical business
Here's how to get started if you want to turn your skills as an electrician into a business.
-
Best lawn mowers in Australia
We’ve compared mowers from over 20 brands to find the best lawn mowers you can buy right now.
Ask an Expert
