Choosing the best BBQ
From charcoal to gas barbecues, here's all the advice and top tips on finding the best barbecue for you.
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As barbecue season draws closer, it’s time to get your grilling setup just right. Whether you prefer authentic charcoal or an easy gas barbecue, we've pulled together all you need to know to become king of the grill.
What size BBQ do I need?
Things to consider...
Every BBQ will grill slightly differently depending on its size, features and fuel. Which one is best for you can depend on multiple factors:
- How often are you BBQing?
- How many are you cooking for?
- How much storage space do you have?
- How do you like your food cooked?
We’ve grilled our specialists and gathered the best bits of each type of BBQ, to help you answer these questions.
Charcoal vs gas BBQs
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Classic charcoal BBQ
If you want a more authentic BBQ experience, then charcoal is for you. From lighting the coals to stocking the fire, you’ll achieve that unique BBQ flavour.
Charcoal will take more time to heat up (30-40 mins), as the embers need to be piping hot. Cooking will also take a little longer as the temperature can fluctuate depending on the position of your coals. But by taking your time, you’ll lock in more of that succulent, delicious flavour.
Flexible gas BBQ
Although seen as a more expensive choice, gas BBQs are a convenient and flexible cooking option, and ideal for novices.
Simply hook your BBQ up to a gas canister (propane or butane are most suitable), press the ignition button and start cooking. You can control the heat more evenly with a gas BBQ, and with most models boasting multiple burners, you can easily alternate your cooking temperatures – giving you a more even cook.
Hassle-free electric BBQ
Smart, savvy and super quick. Electric barbecues come with ultimate precision and control.
Powered by electricity, electric BBQs are quick to heat up, smoke-free and perfect for those looking for a hassle-free set up. They allow more control than the charcoal or gas BBQs with features such as variable temperature control via app, auto-clean function, digital display and sometimes even multiple cooking modes.
Shop by brand
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Our top BBQs
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Must-have BBQ accessories
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Useful utensils
Poke it, flip it, cut it. Have all your cooking equipment close to hand for easy grilling.
Effective covers
BBQ covers are great when you’re short on space – especially when summer showers make a surprise visit.
Light it up
Classic charcoal, barbeque briquettes or easy fire logs. Pick up essential fuel to get your BBQ going.
Sizzling reviews
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Very good quality!
I bought this Charcoal BBQ 3 weeks ago. I’ve loved that it comes with a cover which is very useful. I would recommend this BBQ.
Carol
Buckinghamshire, 07/07/2025
Ninja BBQ
So happy with my recent purchase of a Ninja BBQ from Argos. It’s amazing and food tastes unreal. Easy to set up and the woodsmoke taste gives a real a...
Sparky
Bebington, 10/06/2025
Great looking BBQ
Great BBQ, was easy to put together and cooked food really well. Was great for cooking for large groups and food was delicious
Kittyanne20
Cambridgeshire, 30/06/2025
Make the most of your BBQ
The best BBQ features
Up your grillin' game
Get the most out of alfresco cooking and look for our favourite features:
- Wheels – easily manoeuvre yourself to cook in the sun.
- Warming rack – keep food warm whilst you cook the rest.
- Ash collection tray – this will save you cleaning time later.
- Adjustable grill – have more control over your cooking by moving food to or from the heat.
- Shelves – ideal spots to hold dishes, trays, condiments and beverages for the chef.
- Loading door – safely and easily reload your charcoal BBQ with a handy door.
- Hoods and chimneys – keep food warm with a hood, whilst chimneys will disperse excess smoke.
- Fireboxes – an extra chamber for fuel such as wood for infusing your food with extra smokey succulence.
BBQ top tips
Sun's out, (burger) buns out
- Check for any dietary requirements as you may need separate tools or dishes.
- Add your food once the flames have died down to avoid scorched edges.
- Marinade any meat the night before to save time and get the best flavours.
- Line your BBQ with a bit of foil for a quicker clean-up.
- Wait until your BBQ is cool before cleaning. Most grills are dishwasher safe or you can use a wire brush. Oven cleaner is ideal for the rest of your BBQ.
- Clean your utensils too so they’ll last longer.
- Dive into side dishes – corn on the cob, coleslaw, potato salad…we could go on!
- Set the mood with a top garden party playlist.
BBQ recipes
Get started...
Chef it up. From kebabs to corn cobs and more, find plenty of recipes to spice up your BBQ party. We've got something for everyone.
Have you thought about…
Portable BBQs
Who doesn't love a BBQ on-the-go? Partying, camping or holidaying, a compact barbecue is your partner for the next outing. It's easy to store so you can use it for backyard summer parties as well.
Pizza ovens
Expand your repertoire beyond BBQs and burgers. Make the best of warm weather and get togethers with fresh, delicious pizzas straight out of the oven.
Enjoy your outdoor space
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Garden furniture
Choose your perfect style. There's something for every garden.
Garden inspiration
Browse our garden centre - full of hints, tips and ideas.
Garden decoration tips
Spruce up your garden with these outdoor decor ideas.
