Barbecue Buyer’s Guide: Find the Right Model for Your Space and Style

The arrival of sunny days signals the grand return of outdoor grilling. But with the vast array of models available, choosing the right barbecue can quickly become a headache. Should you opt for the authenticity of charcoal, the convenience of gas, or the simplicity of electric? This guide is here to shed some light and help you find the ideal companion for your summers, whether you have a large garden, a small balcony, or a passion for picnics on the go.

Key Criteria for Choosing Your Barbecue

Before you take the plunge, let's review the key points that will guide you to the perfect model.

1. Fuel Type: Gas, Charcoal, or Electric?

This is the number-one factor. The choice of fuel will depend on your living situation, as well as your requirements for taste and ease of use.

• The charcoal barbecue: This is the purist's choice, for whom the characteristic smoky flavour is non-negotiable. It requires a bit more patience to light and to master the embers, but that's the price you pay for an authentic cooking experience. Due to smoke and fire risks, it is almost exclusively reserved for gardens.
• The gas barbecue: It wins you over with its ease and speed of use. Ignition is instantaneous and temperature control is precise thanks to adjustable burners. It's the ideal option for regular use and for effortlessly catering to large gatherings.
• The electric barbecue: This is THE solution for use on a balcony barbecue or even indoors. With no smoke, no flames, and no fuel to store, the electric grill or electric plancha is all about simplicity in use and maintenance. It is often the only type permitted in apartment complexes.

2. Size and Portability: For Whom and For Where?

The cooking surface should be appropriate for the number of guests you usually entertain. There's no need to go too big for use as a couple, but a model that's too small can quickly become frustrating during large family meals.

For those who love getaways, a portable barbecue is a must-have. Lightweight and compact, this small barbecue is easy to transport for a picnic or camping trip. A tabletop barbecue is also an excellent alternative for smaller spaces.

3. Features and Maintenance

Certain details can radically improve your experience. A lid allows you to vary cooking methods (direct or indirect) and protects food from the wind. A built-in thermometer is a real plus for mastering slow-cooking techniques.

Also, consider maintenance: enamelled cast iron or stainless steel grates and a removable grease collection tray will save you a lot of cleaning chores.

Top Barbecue Picks to Consider

To move from theory to practice, here is our selection of three models that cater to very different needs.

For Nomads and Small Spaces: Alpina Foldable Charcoal Barbecue

Why it stands out: This tabletop barbecue successfully combines the authentic pleasure of a charcoal barbecue with an ultra-clever foldable design. It unfolds in seconds and packs away just as easily, making it a perfect companion for impromptu outings.

Advantages:

• Portable and foldable design: Extremely compact when folded, it fits into a car boot or a cupboard.
• Express setup: No complex assembly required.
• Simplified cleaning: The cooking grate and ash pan are removable.
• Sturdy construction: Its steel frame ensures good stability.

Who is it for? Ideal for camping and picnic enthusiasts, or for those with very limited outdoor space (small balcony, terrace) who don't want to give up the inimitable flavour of a charcoal grill.

See the Alpina Foldable Barbecue

For Everyday Convenience: Black+Decker 2200 W Electric Grill

Why it stands out: With its 2200 W of power and its versatility, this electric grill is much more than just a secondary appliance. Its 180° opening allows you to double the cooking surface, transforming it into a true plancha for social dining.

Advantages:

• High power: Heats up quickly and sears meats perfectly.
• Versatility: Can be used as a closed contact grill or an open 180° plancha.
• Adjustable thermostat: To adapt the temperature to each type of food.
• PFOA-free non-stick coating: For healthy cooking and lightning-fast cleanup.
• Grease collection tray: For lighter grilled meals.

Who is it for? Perfect for people living in apartments, where traditional barbecues are often prohibited. It's also a prime solution for those looking for a fast, efficient, and smoke-free appliance for impromptu grilling all year round.

Discover the Black+Decker Electric Grill

For Hosting Large Crowds: Landmann Rexon PTS 3.0 Gas Barbecue

Why it stands out: This gas barbecue is built for performance and large gatherings. Equipped with 3 powerful burners and the PTS (Power Thermal Spreading) system, it ensures perfectly even heat distribution, eliminating cold spots for consistently uniform cooking.

Advantages:

• Large cooking surface: Allows you to cook for up to 12 people.
• 3 independent stainless steel burners: For pinpoint control over your cooking.
• PTS system: For uniform heat distribution and flawless results.
• Fully equipped: Double-walled lid with thermometer, warming rack, and integrated storage cabinet.
• Easy to move: Mounted on 4 castors for easy relocation.

Who is it for? The choice for large families and anyone who loves to host big gatherings in their garden. It is aimed at grilling enthusiasts who demand performance, reliability, and the comfort of a fully-featured gas barbecue.

Explore the Landmann Rexon Gas Barbecue

Can't Find What You're Looking For?

Did none of these models catch your eye? Don't stop here. Our complete collection of Barbecue Cooking Utensils is packed with other models, accessories, and formats.

Explore all our barbecues and accessories

FAQ: Your Questions About Barbecues

Can you use a barbecue on a balcony in France?

The use of a barbecue on a balcony is strictly regulated by condominium or building rules. For safety reasons (fire risk) and nuisance issues (smoke, odours), charcoal and gas barbecues are almost always prohibited. The electric barbecue is therefore, in most cases, the only authorised option. Be sure to check your building's regulations before making any purchase.

Gas vs. charcoal barbecue: what are the main differences?

The choice depends on your priorities. The charcoal barbecue is the king of authentic smoky flavour, but it requires more preparation and constant monitoring. The gas barbecue, on the other hand, is all about convenience: instant ignition, precise temperature control, and simplified maintenance. It is often more versatile for different types of cooking.

How do you maintain and clean your barbecue?

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity of your appliance and the quality of your grilled food. The best practice is to clean the grate after each use, while it is still warm, with a wire brush. Regularly empty the ash pan (once it has cooled) or the grease collector. For a deep clean, follow the manufacturer's recommendations; some enamelled or stainless steel parts can sometimes be put in the dishwasher.