Electric or gas barbecue: which is right for you?
Pauline, Self-taught handyman, Leeds
56 guidesImportant features
- Ease of use
- Accessories and parts
- Cooking type
- Weight and size
Electric vs. gas barbecues: the most affordable option
Electric barbecues
You can easily get hold of small electric barbecues designed for table top use. Usually used as a back-up to a larger model, these models can offer very affordable prices. More sophisticated versions may come on a stand and will provide a larger grilling surface. These are, nonetheless, still considered small barbecues.
To give you a rough idea of the price ranges available, here are three possible examples:
- For table top barbecues, prices start at around £20 (a 2000W model by Techwood, for example);
- Freestanding collapsible barbecues from Tefal will start at around £70;
- A freestanding 2200 W barbecue on a stand will cost anything from £100 onwards.
Gas barbecues
Gas models are generally higher end models and this is reflected in their prices, which start at around the £150 mark. You should note that this usually does not include equipment such as connecting hoses or gas bottles. When making your choice, you should consider the following criteria:
- The weight of the barbecue;
- The number of burners;
- Whether or not it comes with a plancha grill;
- Whether or not it is equipped with an extra side burner;
- The presence of a grease collection tray;
- The strength of the cooking surfaces.
Which offers the quickest cooking times?
Gas barbecues will reach the right cooking temperature more quickly. These models can also be used instantly upon lighting. When it comes to selecting a gas type, go for propane if you want to able to keep your barbecue outdoors throughout the year.
Quick tip: choose a model with a non-stick cooking surface for easier cleaning!
Gas vs. electric barbecues: which requires less upkeep?
If you opt for a gas barbecue, you will need to check the state of the gas pipe each season and replace the gas bottle when it's empty. If you're not confident handling gas, it may be worth opting for a different model. You also have to be able to lift the gas bottle (not recommended if you suffer from back problems). Otherwise, you may be able to find gas contained in a smaller cylinder that will be easier to move around.
Gas vs. electric: which provides the best taste?
Gas barbecues can be equipped with a cover to make your meat more tender. On the other hand, electric models tend to have trouble reaching the right temperature, which can slow down cooking times.
Of course, you will not get the same smoky taste provided by charcoal or wood-fired barbecues; gas and electric models both offer a more neutral grilled taste. But if you want the best of both worlds, you can always add a nice dollop of barbecue sauce!
Safety tips for using your gas or electric barbecue
When choosing a barbecue, be sure to look for the relevant safety standards. Safety guidelines for barbecuing in the UK can be found online.Your barbecue should be positioned in an open area with a clearance space of about 1.5 metres in all directions. To optimise your cooking – and for obvious safety reasons – you should always place your barbecue on a solid, flat surface. For instance, it's not a good idea to place a tabletop barbecue on a garden table extension.
Whether you decide to go for a gas or electric barbecue, your choice will ultimately depend on your budget and the available space you have. Either way, you will be in for years of happy grilling!
More information
Barbecue buying guide
Gas or charcoal barbecue: which is right for you?
Plancha grill buying guide
How to slow-cook on your barbecue
How to connect your gas appliances
How to design and furnish your garden
Electrical extension cable buying guide
Garden furniture buying guide
Pauline, Self-taught handyman, Leeds 56 guides écrits
With a handyman-father, I grew up with the soft sound of the sander and hammer on weekends.
I am both manual and cerebral (yes, it is possible.), I learned the basics of DIY and the customization of furniture because I was passionate. The salvage mentality is a true way of life that allowed me to know how to use all the tools and products needed to give something a second life, from sander to varnish.
I have two favorite activities: the transformation of old furniture and decoration tips. I am always ready to lend a helping hand to revamp a table or to restore a mirror that was intended for the trash that will become a friend’s centerpiece.
I’m convinced that it’s possible to reinvent an interior by small, regular modifications, I constantly research low-cost, test ideas.
