The portable barbecue has many advantages. It is light, allows you to grill anywhere and takes up little space. More than 1 million barbecues are sold every year in the UK, a good part of which are portable models. In addition to the amount of food the grill can cook, you have to consider the price and the type of model (electric, charcoal or gas). So, which portable barbecue should you choose?
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Our selection
"Ideal for small spaces, the Campingaz Party Grill portable barbecue delivers up to 1,350 W. The heating temperature remains very correct. You can light it…"
"If you live in an apartment and are looking for an electric barbecue that heats up well, the Severin KG 2397 is for you. Its…"
"The LotusGrill G-AN-435 XL impresses with its innovative and modern design. It is mainly made of steel and high quality plastic, making it more resistant…"
"As always, Weber offers us an excellent barbecue. It's serious, compact, and has nothing to envy to fixed and mobile barbecues. Cooking with charcoal is…"
Ideal for small spaces, the Campingaz Party Grill portable barbecue delivers up to 1,350 W. The heating temperature remains very correct. You can light it easily and quickly thanks to the piezo ignition system.
See priceThe Campingaz Party Grill will certainly satisfy your needs during a party with friends or family. This versatile model allows you to cook in different ways, such as grilling or broiling. For this, it comes with a specific support for pans as well as a grill with a non-stick coating. It should be noted that this portable barbecue has a lid that can be used as a wok.
A refillable gas bottle CV300+ and CV 470+ ensures the proper functioning of the Campingaz Party Grill. Equipped with a piezo ignition system, this device offers you an autonomy of up to 4 hours and 30 minutes. It also comes with a grease trap.
If you live in an apartment and are looking for an electric barbecue that heats up well, the Severin KG 2397 is for you. Its XXL cooking plate can accommodate up to 6 guests. In addition, this German-made appliance is sold at an unbeatable price.
31,93 £ on CdiscountThe Severin KG 2397 grill pan is very practical for multi-cooker grilling. Its cast iron cooking plate measuring 59.5 x 34.5 cm can accommodate up to ten pork chops simultaneously. Weighing 3.6 kg, this brushed stainless steel model has a beautiful black color. This appliance has a removable grease trap.
The thermostat turns off the heat once the temperature is reached. Although this is not a problem for vegetables and fish, it is better to set the device to the maximum temperature for grilling red meat. This griddle can also be used to prepare Japanese teppanyaki style specialties. When cleaning, a damp cloth is sufficient for the non-stick coating of the plate.
The LotusGrill G-AN-435 XL impresses with its innovative and modern design. It is mainly made of steel and high quality plastic, making it more resistant to shocks. Its compact size ensures easy transportation.
199 £ on CdiscountThe LotusGrill G-AN-435 XL charcoal grill takes only 3 minutes to assemble. Guaranteed smoke-free, this model allows for healthier and safer cooking. It also owes its sturdiness to the high quality of its design materials which are 100% recyclable. For added convenience, the grill and grill base are dishwasher safe.
The LotusGrill G-AN-435 XL comes with a carrying bag. Its base seems very resistant to heat. Moreover, you can even put your hands on it, it will not be hot at any time. With a size of 46 x 46 x 28 cm, it will take up very little space on your table or worktop.
As always, Weber offers us an excellent barbecue. It's serious, compact, and has nothing to envy to fixed and mobile barbecues. Cooking with charcoal is easy and delicious. Moreover, the Weber Smokey Joe Premium is very robust.
See priceThe Weber Smokey Joe Premium is a benchmark in portable barbecue. Operating on charcoal, this model does not warp or rust. Its dimensions of 42.3 x 36.1 x 42 cm and its cooking surface of 37 cm in diameter are enough for 2 to 5 people. You can use it on the terrace, while camping, fishing or on a picnic.
The fire grate is made of steel and the cooking grate is made of chrome steel. The Tuck-N-Carry locking lid has a fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle, and during cooking, 3 aluminum ventilation flaps allow air to flow in and out. And for added convenience, a measuring bowl of charcoal pellets is included.
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The best portable barbecue in 2021
The best entry-level portable barbecue
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| TOP OF THE TOP | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
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| OUR SELECTION |
Campingaz Party Grill
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Femor HSSKJ
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LotusGrill G-AN-435 XL
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Weber Smokey Joe Premium
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Ideal for small spaces, the Campingaz Party Grill portable barbecue delivers up to 1,350 W. The heating temperature remains very correct. You can light it easily and quickly thanks to the piezo ignition system.
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If you live in an apartment and are looking for an electric barbecue that heats up well, the Severin KG 2397 is for you. Its XXL cooking plate can accommodate up to 6 guests. In addition, this German-made appliance is sold at an unbeatable price.
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The LotusGrill G-AN-435 XL impresses with its innovative and modern design. It is mainly made of steel and high quality plastic, making it more resistant to shocks. Its compact size ensures easy transportation.
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As always, Weber offers us an excellent barbecue. It's serious, compact, and has nothing to envy to fixed and mobile barbecues. Cooking with charcoal is easy and delicious. Moreover, the Weber Smokey Joe Premium is very robust.
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Excellent battery life of 4.5 hours
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XXL cast iron griddle
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Ignition ventilation system
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Ideal for camping, fishing, picnics or on the patio
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Excellent, ultra-light and compact barbecue design
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Best value for the money
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Shock-resistant material
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World-renowned brand for its craftsmanship
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Quick warm-up time
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A damp cloth is all it takes to clean it
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No smoke
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Suited for 2 to 5 people
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To know which portable barbecue will best suit your needs, think about the food you want to grill. If you want to sear meat at high temperatures and infuse a delicious smoky flavor into your food, charcoal is the best fuel. Those looking forquick ignition, even cooking and easy cleanup should look at an electric or gas model. Consider cost, proximity to a spot, as well as the availability of fuel refills.
Charcoal grills cost less because they are made of thinner materials. But they also have fewer moving parts and withstand frequent use. For the most durable option,look for a rust-resistant model and grates that won't warp. Some portable barbecues feature sturdy cast iron components, including the grates and sometimes the shell. Despite the durability of this material, it is quite heavy. It's not a good choice for anyone looking for something portable.
To determine the size of the cooking surface, try to figure out how many people you plan to cook for. If you think a portable grill isn't a good option for family grilling, think again. Many portable grills have a large enough grill plate or griddle to cook for several people at a time. However, if you're cooking for 3 people or less, a smaller cooking surface will do the trick and cost less.
This
criterion covers 2 aspects that complement each other: weight and size
. A portable barbecue can be used while camping, picnicking or hiking. You should therefore choose a model that is light enough so that you don't strain yourself while carrying it! Also, if you're going on a group trip, you'll need to make room in the trunk of your car for your gear and other necessities. A barbecue that is too big, that doesn't disassemble or that doesn't fold is likely to cause serious problems.
This criterion influences the ease of maintenance and the weight of your mobile barbecue. Indeed, the more it will be used and the more it will need to be cleaned after each use. So look for a model that can be cleaned effortlessly. On the other hand, prefer light portable barbecues (preferably gas or electric) that you can carry from one place to another without any help.
"Barbecue, basically, is a device that allows you to eat sausages practically raw, but with your fingers well cooked." - Coluche
Protect this type of barbecue from the elements to prevent it from rusting or aging prematurely. It's best to store it in the garage or shed. If you don't have indoor storage space, keep it covered and off the ground.
Regular cleaning of your portable gas grill ensures quality grilling. Before or after each use, heat it on high for 5 to 10 minutes to incinerate all grease residue and stuck-on food.
Scrape the hot grates with a metal tool, wipe them with a damp cloth to remove soot and brush them with vegetable oil. This procedure also prevents food from sticking. Always empty the grease trap after grilling.
If you find that the burner ports are clogged, use a thin wire to push the debris out. Before storing the grill for the winter, give the interior a good scrubbing with plenty of hot soapy water and rinse. Also remove the battery from the igniter to prevent corrosion.
Charcoal barbecues are not as susceptible to the elements as their gas cousins. However,never leave a barbecue full of ashes in the rain. The mixture of water and ashes will become lye and corrode the barbecue. If there is no cover, a tarp will do.
Empty the ash pan after each use. But wait until the barbecue has cooled down and the embers have gone out. Do not use water to extinguish the coals. As mentioned above, this kind of mixture will turn into a corrosive lye. This will affect the life of the grill.
Cleaning a charcoal grill is easy. As it cools, scrape debris and food stuck to the still hot grates with a wire brush. You can also do this while the grill is preheating. Wipe the grates with a damp cloth to remove soot, then brush them with vegetable oil.
This is probably the easiest type of portable barbecue to maintain. In fact, all you have to do is empty the grease trap regularly. For cleaning, a damp sponge should suffice. If food gets stuck to the grill or the cooking plate, clean with hot water, but do not scrape. Note that some grills are dishwasher safe.
By reading the different comparisons for the elaboration of this guide, we have distinguished 3 types of portable barbecues. Here are their respective advantages and disadvantages.
A portable gas grill has a fast ignition fuel (piezoelectric system). Depending on the case, the gas used can bepropane, butane or even liquefied petroleum gas
or LPG. Campers will be more sensitive to butane, because of the smaller and lighter bottles. The portable gas barbecue cools down quickly after use. It is also easy to clean thanks to the grease trap.
On the other hand, it does not heat as much as wood, despite the uniform cooking
, not to mention the cost of the appliance and the gas bottles. Those who do not want to waste time lighting or cleaning their portable barbecue will be interested in a gas model. Opt for an appliance with removable stands or legs for use at home and on outings.
This
type of potable barbecue heats up more than a gas barbecue. Some can reach 400°C. Above all, itgives food that characteristic smoky taste so sought after by barbecue lovers
. Moreover, it has a better quality/price ratio than the gas model. However, this type of portable barbecue heats up so much that it is not suitable for all cooking vessels.
In addition, there is a risk of charring the food. And charcoal is a dirty fuel. This makes cleaning very difficult, despite the ash tray. You won't find a better smoky taste for your grilled food anywhere else. That's why charcoal barbecues are so popular. And if you want to take it everywhere, the best choice is the portable model. Plus, it doesn't cost much.
These 2 appliances use electricity to cook. There is very little smoke. The barbecue has grills and the plancha has a cast iron cooking plate. Lighting is easy and there is no fuel to carry with you. And you can adjust the temperature.
Among the notable flaws, it's hard to overlook the need for an electrical outlet nearby. Campers, hikers and picnic enthusiasts, skip it. In addition, the cooktop does not always distribute heat evenly. If you live in an apartment, the portable electric barbecue will save you space. Plus, it's safer than gas and charcoal models, and it produces almost no smoke.
As you can see, the heat of the cooking surface is not enough to make a good barbecue. There is indeed a correlation between the heating speed, the cooking surface, the materials used and the ease of cleaning. The combination of these parameters determines the quality of the barbecue.
The main advantage of this type of barbecue is its portability. You can take it everywhere you go. Generally light and not very bulky, it is the ideal equipment for all those who wish to venture into the great outdoors to have a barbecue party. You will have to think about the power supply. The portable barbecue can be electric, gas or coal. It is also very easy to install as it can be deployed in a few minutes.
The price of a portable barbecue is also attractive. It is ideal for small budgets that can also get rid of the installation costs. On the other hand, you should know that this type of barbecue offers a rather reduced output due to its small size. It cannot serve more than a dozen people at your barbecue party. Moreover, even if it is made of metal, it has a limited lifespan.
A fixed stone barbecue is generally chosen for its aesthetic appeal. A real piece of decoration, it shines in a garden and brings an aesthetic and convivial touch. Moreover, the design possibilities are infinite and adaptable to all styles of decoration. The practical side is not left out. It is possible to choose its size so that it can serve a large number of people. Although the fixed barbecue is usually fuelled by coal, gas is increasingly used, as it is cleaner.
The fixed stone barbecue occupies a space in your garden permanently. You therefore need to have enough space to install it. This installation also requires special know-how. Therefore, the stone barbecue must be installed by a professional, which will increase the already high installation costs.
The stone barbecue is made to last. It remains usable for decades and gives a more elegant look to a garden. However, it is expensive to install and requires sufficient space in the garden. If you plan to use your barbecue elsewhere than in your garden, choose a portable model. A portable grill will also be more affordable in price and requires no installation work.
If you're still on the fence about buying a portable barbecue, here are a few good reasons why you should get one.
Drinkability
If you don't have a garden or an outside yard, you can always organise a barbecue in the great outdoors. If you like to get out of the city to enjoy nature, the portable barbecue is for you. You'll enjoy a change of scenery while enjoying the flavours of delicious grilled food.
Affordable cost
Buying a good portable barbecue is much cheaper than installing a fixed stone barbecue in your garden. You could then prepare delicious grilled food while limiting your expenses.
Ease of use and maintenance
A good portable barbecue is easy to set up and use. In a few minutes, the cooking area is ready. Maintenance is just as simple. Simply remove the ashes, if any, and clean the cooking surface after each use.
Limited space requirement
The portable barbecue can be folded up when not in use. You could then store it in a garden cupboard and take it out again the next time you use it. The space requirement is minimal, especially if you opt for a mini portable barbecue for one or two people.
Longevity
It is true that portable barbecues have a shorter lifespan than stone models. However, if you choose a good quality model, you can enjoy exceptional durability. A good portable barbecue will serve you for several years before it gets damaged.
In our opinion, the best brands of portable barbecues in 2022 are :
The American brand is THE undisputed barbecue specialist. It excels particularly in charcoal barbecues. But its gas and electric models are not to be outdone. Its models all meet the requirements of reliability, sturdiness, finish and cooking quality. Most of the time, they are expensive, but you won't regret it.
SunJas specializes in portable charcoal barbecues. They offer stainless steel models designed for camping, hiking, fishing or the beach. In addition, the prices are deliberately positioned at the entry level. But beware, the equipment often lacks robustness. It will not last long if you leave it outside and without maintenance.
Tefal is one of the 10 favourite brands in the UK. This subsidiary of the SEB group, which dominates the small appliance market, manufactures electric barbecues and planchas. True to Tefal's manufacturing quality and reputation, these electric grills are efficient and affordable.
Founded in 1892, Severin offers households excellent mid-range appliances. Among other things, the brand designs toasters, mixers, raclette machines, deep fryers and blenders. Its planchas are among the best on the market, both in terms of surface and cooking quality and in terms of robustness.
Based in the United States, Char-Broil manufactures all types of barbecues, with quality to boot. Charcoal, gas, electric, mobile, fixed or portable, this brand has what you want. They even offer smokers and rotisseries. However, the prices charged will not be to everyone's taste. Count on nearly 200 euros for a portable barbecue.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Season your meat or fish beforehand
To give your food more flavor, remember to season it well before placing it on the grill. Simply mix salt, pepper, herbs and all your favorite spices, then cover your meat or fish with this mixture for a few minutes before grilling.
Think about smoking
Other than grilling, smoking is also a great option for a new culinary experience that will undoubtedly delight your guests. If you're using a charcoal grill, add smoking wood chips to your coals to get a smoky flavor. If not, you can purchase a smoking board to place directly on the grill.
Be careful when lighting your charcoal barbecue
As the charcoal barbecue exposes you to flames, it is essential to take certain precautions before lighting it. First, be sure to keep children and pets away from the grill. Then, put on gloves to protect yourself while lighting and cooking. Also, consider using a chimney igniter to ensure proper fuel metering.
Make a grill on land and sea
There's nothing more delicious than a land and sea grill, where red meat and seafood combine. However, cooking both types of food on the grill at the same time can be a tricky task. You'll need to time each one carefully so that one or the other doesn't get burned. Also consider introducing an aromatic component to unify the flavors.
Don't neglect the accompaniments
To get a dish bursting with flavor, don't just rely on your grilled meat! You can also add a variety of side dishes, such as grilled vegetables or smoked mashed potatoes. When it comes to sauces, bearnaise and garlic sauces are excellent choices.
You can boil on any type of portable barbecue as long as you have a pot or kettle without wooden or plastic parts. Simply place the pan on the barbecue grill and turn it on if you can close the barbecue lid, you can speed up the process.
If you're planning a beach barbecue, there are a few things to consider when making your choice. Firstly, it will be difficult to roll or slide a barbecue in the sand, so opt for a compact model that is light enough to carry. A barbecue with telescopic legs is ideal in this situation, and as the beach is often windy, it is best to look for a barbecue with a windscreen.
The best thing about many of these portable barbecues is that they are incredibly easy to assemble. Most only take 5-10 minutes to set up, although that doesn't include the start up. You can also look for something with vents so that it cools down quickly, when you are ready to pack up and head home.
Size is important when buying a portable barbecue for a number of reasons. First of all, you need to consider the number of mouths you will be feeding. Most portable barbecues are quite small. But there are larger ones that will do the trick. You may also want to consider weight as an important factor, depending on how you plan to travel and how much you are carrying your portable barbecue.
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