So Many BBQ Grills, Which Type is Best for You?

There are a lot of different BBQ grills on the market today, different sizes and styles. Sometimes choosing the best one for you is more confusing than it should be, after all, it is just a BBQ. At one time that meant a basic, round BBQ that you used with briquets. But today you do not have to be so limited, the options are endless. Let's take a look at what's available.

Charcoal BBQ grills - of course, these are still available, and the preference of many outdoor cooking enthusiasts. They take pride in knowing exactly how many briquets are needed depending upon what and how much they are cooking in order to create the perfect temperature. Barbecuing is an art, and they are experts. No matter what they cook, it turns out perfect every time.

Portable BBQ Grills - these grills are normally smaller, easy to load up into your car or truck to take with you to park or beach. These can be either charcoal, gas or electric. Many are small, tabletop grills, and some are bigger, but are light enough to carry. Since they are not very big, they are best for small gatherings.

Electric Grills - electric grills are not very common, and though not for everybody, they serve a devoted market. Most electric grills are small and designed for the table top, but you can get full size grills as well. These are perfect for people who do not grill a lot, but enjoy the occasional summer BBQ. Also great for apartment living when grilling on a balcony. No need to worry about briquets or gas, just plug it in. I have only used one once, it was the grill on the balcony at a resort. I had never used one before, but was very happy with the results, it was nice to just set the temperature (Hi / Low), and not worry about it. The cooking was very even, the steaks were perfect!

Gas Grills - these BBQ grills have become very popular in the last 10 - 20 years. Which shouldn't be very surprising, there is no charcoal to buy or dispose of, you get almost instant heat, and if regularly maintained, the heat is evenly disbursed. These grills come in a variety of sizes and can be quite deluxe. When we moved from the country into town, we changed from charcoal to gas. I was reluctant at first, but soon got used to the convenience. It is nice to be able to BBQ whenever you wish without wondering if you need briquets. Sure, you may run out of propane, but it is an annual problem, not monthly.

BBQ Islands - these are for the serious griller. They are large, and though you can get one on wheels, they can also be a permanent fixture on you patio. The grill is built into  a surface with an island, and often with a small refrigerator below for storing everything you need without running into the house. I have seen some really nice island grills made out of brick or stone, adding great ambiance to a patio. Most of these are propane BBQ grills.

Regardless of where you live or the type of BBQ-er you are: the occasional griller, the weekly griller, or the "often as possible" griller, there is the perfect grill out there for you. With so many different types of BBQ grills on the market today, you can find one to suit your lifestyle and grilling needs.