The British summer has a peculiar relationship with outdoor cooking. Whether it's a gloriously sunny afternoon or a slightly overcast gathering with friends, the ritual of firing up the barbecue remains a cherished tradition. Yet, the landscape of outdoor cooking has evolved considerably, and electric barbecues have emerged as a genuinely compelling alternative to the traditional charcoal and gas models that have long dominated our patios and gardens. For those who value convenience, precise control, and the ability to cook in spaces where open flames might not be permitted, the electric BBQ presents an increasingly attractive proposition. This article examines the merits of these appliances, comparing leading models and exploring what makes them worthy of consideration in 2025.
Electric barbecues: a modern twist on outdoor cooking
Why choose an electric bbq over traditional methods?
The appeal of an electric barbecue lies in its sheer simplicity and adaptability to modern living. Unlike charcoal grills that require careful fire management and a fair amount of patience, or gas models that necessitate the storage and regular replacement of propane canisters, electric barbecues operate with nothing more than a connection to the mains. This makes them exceptionally convenient for those residing in flats with balconies, where open flames are often prohibited, or for anyone who simply wishes to avoid the hassle of sourcing and handling fuel. The trend towards electric outdoor cooking has been notable, with searches for these appliances doubling compared to the previous year, reflecting a significant shift in consumer preferences.
Taylor Hawkins, a buyer at John Lewis, highlights several practical advantages that electric barbecues bring to the table. They offer faster start-up times compared to waiting for charcoal to reach the right temperature, and they deliver easy temperature control that removes much of the guesswork from grilling. Furthermore, the running costs tend to be lower over time, as there is no ongoing expenditure on fuel. For many households, the ability to achieve consistent cooking results without the unpredictability of weather-affected flames or the need for constant attention represents a genuine improvement in the outdoor cooking experience.
Understanding the Appeal of Smoke-Free Grilling
One of the most frequently cited concerns about electric barbecues is whether they can deliver the authentic smoky flavour that charcoal grills are renowned for. While it is true that electric models do not produce smoke in the same way as charcoal, advancements in design and functionality have begun to bridge this gap. The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill and Smoker, for instance, incorporates a smoking function that uses wood pellets to infuse food with a genuine smoky character, despite being an electric appliance. This model reaches temperatures of up to 260 degrees Celsius and offers seven distinct cooking functions, including grilling, air frying, roasting, baking, dehydrating, reheating, and smoking, making it a remarkably versatile option for those who want more than just a straightforward grill.
The Good Housekeeping Institute, which rigorously tests electric barbecues, evaluates these appliances not only for their heat distribution and cooking performance across a variety of foods such as burgers, chicken, and vegetables, but also for their ability to produce a smoky flavour and their ease of cleaning. The results indicate that while electric barbecues may not replicate the intense, direct heat of a charcoal fire, they offer a different set of advantages, particularly in terms of control and consistency. For many cooks, the trade-off is more than acceptable, especially when the convenience and speed of heating are taken into account. Electric barbecues typically heat up in as little as five to fifteen minutes, allowing for spontaneous outdoor meals without lengthy preparation.
Comparing electric, charcoal, and gas barbecues: which reigns supreme?
Performance and temperature control: a fair assessment
When it comes to sheer performance, each type of barbecue has its strengths and limitations. Charcoal grills are celebrated for their ability to reach exceptionally high temperatures and impart a distinctive flavour to food, but they require skill and patience to manage effectively. Gas barbecues offer a middle ground, providing reliable heat and relatively quick start-up times, though they still demand the handling of gas canisters and can be bulky. Electric barbecues, by contrast, excel in offering precise temperature control and rapid heating, with many models reaching operational temperatures in under fifteen minutes.
The Weber Lumin Electric Grill, for example, achieves a top temperature of 315 degrees Celsius in just fourteen minutes, while the Char-Broil SMART-E Electric Barbecue Grill can reach an impressive 370 degrees Celsius in a mere twelve minutes. These figures demonstrate that electric models are more than capable of delivering the heat necessary for effective grilling. However, it is worth noting that while electric barbecues heat up quickly and maintain consistent temperatures, they may not reach the same peak temperatures as charcoal grills, which can limit their ability to achieve the same level of searing on certain cuts of meat. For most everyday cooking, though, the performance of a quality electric barbecue is entirely sufficient and, in many respects, more user-friendly than its traditional counterparts.
Cost analysis and long-term value considerations
The initial purchase price of an electric barbecue can vary considerably, ranging from around eighty pounds for budget models like the George Foreman Indoor Outdoor BBQ Electric Grill, which claims to remove up to 42 per cent of fat compared to other models, to upwards of seven hundred pounds for premium options such as the Char-Broil Evolve Electric Grill. This wide price range reflects differences in build quality, cooking area, wattage, and additional features such as smart connectivity or multiple cooking zones.
When assessing value for money, it is important to consider not only the upfront cost but also the long-term savings associated with electric grilling. With no need to purchase charcoal or gas refills, the ongoing expenses are limited to electricity usage, which is generally modest. A typical electric barbecue operates at between 1,650 and 2,400 watts, meaning that a few hours of cooking will add only a small amount to your energy bill. For those who grill frequently, these savings can accumulate over time, making electric barbecues an economically sensible choice. Additionally, the ease of use and reduced maintenance requirements contribute to their overall value, as there is no need to clean out ash or replace gas fittings. The Boss Grill Compact Grill with Cover, priced at ninety-nine pounds, represents excellent value for those seeking a straightforward, reliable electric grill with a cooking area of 44 by 44 centimetres and a power output of 1,650 watts.
Top electric barbecue models and brands worth your attention
Weber and ninja: examining leading manufacturers
Weber has long been a respected name in the world of barbecues, and their electric offerings uphold the brand's reputation for quality and innovation. The Weber Lumin Electric Grill Black, priced at £640, is regarded as the best overall electric BBQ by the Good Housekeeping Institute. It features a grilling area of 33.5 by 49 centimetres, a power output of 2,200 watts, and the ability to heat up to 315 degrees Celsius in just ten minutes. The Lumin also offers selectable heat zones, allowing cooks to manage different foods simultaneously, and includes settings for searing, smoking, steaming, and boiling. While some users have noted the presence of hot spots and a tendency for food to stick to the grill, the overall performance and build quality make it a worthy investment for serious outdoor cooks.
The Weber Lumin Compact, a smaller version priced at £329, offers many of the same features in a more space-efficient package, with a cooking area of 28 by 43 centimetres and a 1,166 square centimetre grilling surface capable of accommodating up to eight burgers. It reaches 250 degrees Celsius in six and a half minutes and has earned a five-star rating for its ease of assembly and versatility. For those with limited outdoor space, the Lumin Compact strikes an excellent balance between performance and practicality. Meanwhile, the Weber Pulse 2000 Electric BBQ, costing £630, is noted as the best electric barbecue with independent cooking zones, allowing for even more precise control over different cooking tasks.
Ninja, a brand known for its innovative kitchen appliances, has also made a significant impact in the electric barbecue market. The Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill and Smoker, priced at £190, is celebrated for its compact design and remarkable functionality. Despite its modest dimensions, with a grill plate measuring 28 by 37 centimetres, it offers seven cooking functions and can reach temperatures of up to 260 degrees Celsius. This model has been recognised as both a runner-up by the Good Housekeeping Institute and the best electric BBQ for smoking, thanks to its ability to use wood pellets to infuse food with a smoky flavour. The Ninja Woodfire Electric Outdoor Oven, priced at £278, extends this versatility further, making it an ideal choice for those who want a multifunctional cooking appliance that can handle everything from grilling and roasting to baking and dehydrating.
Choosing between table-top and full-sized garden models
The choice between a table-top electric barbecue and a full-sized garden model largely depends on your available space and intended use. Table-top models, such as the Morso Balcone, priced at £269, are designed for those with limited outdoor areas, such as balconies or small patios. The Morso Balcone features a compact cooking surface of 30 by 20 centimetres, reaches a maximum temperature of 300 degrees Celsius, and includes a keep-warm section for added convenience. Its stylish design and ease of use make it an attractive option, though the absence of handles and a temperature dial, along with a somewhat higher price point, may give some buyers pause. Nonetheless, for urban dwellers seeking a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution, table-top models offer genuine appeal.
Full-sized garden models, on the other hand, are better suited to those with more space and a desire to entertain larger groups. The Char-Broil SMART-E Electric Barbecue Grill, priced at £657, is the best electric barbecue for larger gatherings, with a generous cooking area of 57 by 39 centimetres and a power output of 2,400 watts. This model can reach temperatures of up to 370 degrees Celsius in just twelve minutes and offers smart connectivity, allowing users to monitor and control the barbecue remotely via a smartphone app. For those who regularly host garden parties or family gatherings, the increased cooking capacity and advanced features of a full-sized model justify the higher investment. The CADAC E-Braai 40, priced at £275, provides another excellent option for those seeking portability without sacrificing cooking area, with a 40 by 40 centimetre surface and a lightweight design that includes a storage bag for easy transport and storage.
Essential Features and Cooking Performance in Electric BBQs
Drip trays, cast iron surfaces, and wattage: what matters most?
When evaluating an electric barbecue, several key features warrant close attention. The presence of an efficient drip tray is essential for hassle-free cooking, as it collects grease and fat that drips away from the food during grilling. This not only makes cleanup easier but also contributes to healthier cooking by reducing the amount of fat that remains on the food. The George Foreman Indoor Outdoor BBQ Electric Grill, for instance, is designed with a sloped surface and an effective drip tray, and it claims to remove up to 42 per cent of fat compared to other models, making it a particularly appealing choice for health-conscious cooks.
The material of the cooking surface also plays a significant role in performance. Cast iron surfaces are prized for their ability to retain and distribute heat evenly, resulting in consistent cooking and attractive grill marks. Enamelled surfaces, while easier to clean, may not provide the same level of heat retention but offer the advantage of being less prone to rust and requiring less maintenance. Wattage is another critical consideration, as it directly affects how quickly the barbecue heats up and the maximum temperature it can achieve. Most quality electric barbecues range from 1,650 to 2,400 watts, with higher wattage models generally offering faster heating and greater temperature control. The Weber Lumin, with its 2,200-watt output, and the Char-Broil SMART-E, with 2,400 watts, both exemplify the performance benefits of higher wattage.
Real-World Cooking Results and Where to Purchase Your Electric Barbecue
Real-world testing of electric barbecues reveals a great deal about their practical capabilities. The Good Housekeeping Institute conducts comprehensive evaluations, cooking a variety of foods including burgers, chicken, and vegetables, to assess heat distribution and overall cooking performance. The results consistently show that electric barbecues can deliver excellent results when it comes to everyday grilling tasks. The Weber Lumin, for example, produces evenly cooked burgers and vegetables, though some users have noted that cooking times can be slightly longer than with gas or charcoal models. The Ninja Woodfire, meanwhile, impresses with its ability to air fry and smoke food, offering a level of versatility that extends well beyond traditional grilling.
For those looking to purchase an electric barbecue, several reputable retailers in the UK market offer a wide selection. John Lewis, which has reported a doubling of searches for electric barbecues compared to the previous year, stocks a variety of models from leading brands including Weber, Ninja, and Char-Broil. Online platforms also provide convenient access to customer reviews and competitive pricing, making it easier to compare models and make an informed decision. Whether you opt for a budget-friendly model like the George Foreman Indoor Outdoor BBQ Electric Grill at £79 or invest in a premium option such as the Char-Broil Evolve Electric Grill at £730, the key is to choose a barbecue that aligns with your cooking needs, available space, and budget. The electric barbecue market in 2025 offers a wealth of options, ensuring that there is a suitable model for every outdoor cooking enthusiast.
