EXPERT'S GUIDE:
Buying The Best BBQ for Your Great Outdoors
Welcome to Harvey’s BBQ-lovers hub, where a weekend barbie is as Australian as mozzie spray and backyard cricket. And with outdoor cooking and backyard gatherings as popular as ever, it’s no surprise our local BBQ market is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.4% each year from 2025 to 2034.*
10 - 12 min read
Whether you’re a slow-smoking superfan, chargrill champ or a pizza oven lover, our experts dish out the know-how to choose the right BBQ and turn backyard banter into bragging rights.
From electric and portable gas grills to outdoor kitchens, compare BBQ types, sizes and features, then snag the perfect setup for your space and entertaining needs. Let’s get cooking!
Quick Reading Links:
Grill Seeker?
Meet Your BBQ Match!
Want fast, reliable cooking?
Gas BBQ
They heat up quickly, offer temperature control and make it simple to grill, sear, roast, and feed a crowd.
Creating a polished outdoor entertaining space?
Built-in BBQ or Outdoor Kitchen
These setups blend BBQ power with benchtops, storage and more for a complete outdoor cooking zone.
Live in an apartment or have limited outdoor space?
Electric BBQ
Compact and easy to use, they don’t need gas or charcoal and they’re great for balconies, and low-fuss cooking.
Enjoy camping, beach days and picnics?
Portable BBQ
Lightweight, compact and easy to transport, portable BBQs let you cook beyond the backyard.
Want bold, smoky flavour and hands-on cooking?
Charcoal BBQ
They deliver high heat, smoky flavour and great caramelisation for steaks, seafood, and low-and-slow cooking.
Love ribs, brisket, pulled pork or set-and-forget flavour?
Smoker
They offer steady heat and smoke to turn everyday cuts into oh-so-tender, flavoursome favourites.
Types of BBQs
We’re lifting the lid on the different types of BBQs in our range – from how they bring the heat and the dishes they do best to how easy they are to clean, with a side of hot tips and advice from our in-store experts.
Gas BBQs
Top Tip 
Check out models with side burners, rotisseries, or built-in thermometers for that extra helping of functionality.
Flaming fast favourites
A staple of great Australian cooking, gas BBQs are prized for speed, power and dependability. With instant electronic ignition and independently controlled burners, they serve up precise heat control – from high-heat searing to steady grilling. Whether you’re flipping snags, cooking seafood gently, or roasting a chook with the hood down, these versatile barbies make it easy to feed a few or cook up a family feast.
Why you’ll love cooking with gas:
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Click ‘n’ cook: Instant ignition means you’re fired up and ready to grill without the wait – just the thing for hectic weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
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Heat you can handle: Adjustable burners give you steady, efficient heat for everything from skewers and burgers to veggies and seafood.
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Multitasking mastered: Work different heat zones; sear steak on one side, roast veg on the other – they do it all.
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Mess managed: Quick-clean grills and drip trays make tidy-up a breeze.
Sizzle spectrum: From compact 2–3 burners through to mighty models with 5–6 burners, there’s an option to suit every lifestyle.
The Experts Say:
“Gas BBQ’s give you the ease of precise High/Low temperature control, imparting that unique BBQ flavour making even the cheapest cuts of meat, or vegetables delicious."
– James Dixon, Outdoor Living Manager, Harvey Norman Balgowlah“Gas BBQs are very reliable, they can cook at high or low temperatures and the range of gas BBQs in the market is huge. Most gas BBQs give you the option to run NG or LPG.”
- Rohan Matthews, Harvey Norman Proprietor, AlburyBuilt-in BBQs
Top Tip 
An outdoor-rated rangehood helps control smoke and grease build-up, protects surrounding cabinetry and improves airflow when cooking with the lid closed.
The entertainer’s upgrade
Blending style with firepower, built-in BBQs are the centrepiece of well-planned outdoor kitchens. Designed to integrate with benchtops and cabinetry, they deliver pro-level performance for searing and hood-down cooking, while elevating your backyard into a dedicated entertaining zone. With stainless steel and weather-tough finishes, they’re tailor-made for our harsh Aussie conditions – and the ultimate spread!
All the ingredients for BBQ HQ:
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The full package: Build the ultimate outdoor kitchen by adding a fridge, sink, storage and roomy prep benches.
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Top-tier performance: Premium materials such as quality stainless steel as well as electronic ignition or flame tamers help deliver reliable results.
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Easy entertaining: Practical features like warming racks, rotisserie-ready designs and built-in lights make bulk cooking simple and efficient.
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Space-savvy style: Perfect for creating a clean, streamlined look with long-term value.
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Weatherproof wingman: Durable, heat-resistant finishes and corrosion-resistant components make them suited to our harsh Aussie conditions.
The Experts Say:
“For many homeowners, a built-in BBQ is ultimately about creating a lifestyle space rather than simply adding another appliance. The ability to combine the convenience of an indoor kitchen with the excitement and versatility of outdoor cooking creates a true win-win – especially for those who love entertaining, experimenting with different cooking styles, and making the most of their outdoor space.”
– James Dixon, Outdoor Living Manager, Harvey Norman BalgowlahElectric BBQs
Top Tip For more flexibility, opt for a model with variable heat controls and interchangeable grill plates, making it easier to switch between sears and gentler cooks.
Simply switch, sizzle, serve!
Built for modern homes and tighter spaces, electric BBQs deliver controlled, even heat without the need for gas bottles or charcoal. Powerful heating elements, adjustable temperatures and well-designed grill plates mean they’re your go-to for reliability, ease and versatility. Compact enough for apartments and balconies yet powerful enough for backyards, they deliver all the flavour and far less smoke or fuss.
What makes them worth making the switch:
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Skip the set-up: No fuel to store or replace. Just power up, preheat and cook – ideal for quick meals and low-fuss entertaining.
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Balcony buddy: Slim and sleek profiles, and tabletop options suit apartments, courtyards and areas where gas or charcoal may be restricted.
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No smoking: With no open flame and controlled fat runoff, they produce less smoke, making them more neighbour-friendly with basic ventilation.
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On point: Adjustable temperature settings and even heat distribution help you cook fish, veg and lean meats so every fillet and skewer comes out just right.
Cleaner ‘n’ greener: Removable plates, drip trays and non-stick surfaces simplify cleaning, and lower emissions provide an energy-conscious choice.
The Experts Say:
“We are currently seeing an uptick in cash and carry electric BBQ’s mostly due to the success of the Ninja brand. The ease of electric BBQing and the ability to use features such as smoking are make it so this product is particularly easy to sell, even for the staff who do not usually sell BBQs.”
– Rhys Cain, Proprietor, Harvey Norman Darwin“Due to regulations for balconies in most states you can generally only have an electric BBQ on a balcony. There are some great electric BBQs on the market at the moment, which can deliver high heat cooking."
- Rohan Matthews, Harvey Norman Proprietor, AlburyCharcoal BBQs
Top Tip Consider one with top and bottom vents that open smoothly and seal tight. These hold steady heat for low-and-slow cooks, not just quick blasts for searing!
Where there’s smoke, there’s flavour
Nothing beats the delicious smoky caramelisation that comes from barbecuing over glowing coals. Charcoal BBQs handle everything from low-and-slow roasts to fast, high-heat grilling, making them ideal for steaks, seafood and vegetables alike. With options including classic kettles, box-style grills, compact tabletops and Japanese hibachi cookers, there’s a charcoal setup for every outdoor chef.
Why it’s time to get your glow on:
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Flavour that shows off: Charcoal infuses deep, smoky flavours and natural caramelisation for bold, rich results.
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Coming in hot: Charcoal reaches high temperatures, perfect for charring and crisping while keeping the inside tender and succulent. Delicious!
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Everyone’s got a type: Kettles, box grills and hibachi plates all handle heat differently – choose the setup that matches how you like to cook.
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Material matters: Heavy-duty steel bodies and durable grates stand up to high heat and long sessions over glowing coals.
The Experts Say:
“Charcoal adds a depth of flavour hard to find anywhere else - in recent years, products such as Kamado Joe Konnected and Everdure 4K have introduced electric ignition and in-build temperature probes which help not only start your cook, but help you maintain the desired temperatures giving you more control of the final result.”
– James Dixon, Outdoor Living Manager, Harvey Norman BalgowlahPORTABLE BBQs
Top Tip 
If you’ll be moving it often, check the folded size and weight, not just whether it has handles. Locking lids, balanced carry points and stable legs are essential when you’re transporting and setting up on uneven ground.
Fuel your great outdoors adventures
The ultimate essential for campers, picnickers and outdoorsy types – portable barbies serve flavour beyond the backyard. Compact, easy to carry and quick to set up, they’re made for beaches, balconies and everything in between. Whether you’re searing steaks at the park or cooking up the classics at the campsite, these travel buddies make outdoor meals feel seriously simple.
Reasons to upgrade from takeout to take-anywhere:
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Pack-and-go: Compact, lightweight builds make them a breeze to transport and set up – ideal for road trips and weekends away.
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Fuel your flavours: Gas, charcoal or electric, pick the power that suits your flavour style and outdoor setup.
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Built for bumps: Durable finishes and sturdy frames stand up to travel, weather and regular outdoor action.
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Heat that keeps up: Simple ignition or easy-light charcoal means you’re ready to grill, anytime and anywhere.
Sear-iously efficient: A compact cook zone uses less fuel and reaches temperature quickly, giving you steady, reliable cooking wherever you are.
Outdoor Kitchens
Top Tip Choose a benchtop that handles direct heat, like granite or quality engineered stone. If your kitchen is under cover, make sure you’ve got ventilation behind the BBQ to protect cabinetry and keep your grill running at its best.
Your ultimate outdoor entertaining hub
An outdoor kitchen transforms your barbie into a comprehensive cooking space, combining built-in BBQs with benchtops, storage, fridges and sinks for an indoor-style workflow outside. Designed to handle heat, weather and big weekends, they prioritise durable materials, smart layouts and storage. Whether you’re cooking midweek or hosting on repeat, they’re built for efficiency, scale and regular entertaining.
They’re red-hot favourites, thanks to:
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Everything, plus the kitchen sink: Includes BBQ, fridge, storage and sink – plus extras like tropical-rated coolers and pull-out gas bays.
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Design done right: Smart designs add generous benchtops and adjustable feet plus hood lights and LED controls for night cooking.
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Signature setup: Many models let you choose cabinetry and benchtop colours plus modular storage – tailor one that fits your space and style.
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Outsmarts the elements: 316 stainless steel, UV-stable benchtops and corrosion-resistant cabinetry stand up to wind, rain and scorching sun for years.
Storage that stacks up: Deep drawers, pull-out bays, spice shelves and insulated compartments keep your kit sorted.
The Experts Say:
When planning an outdoor kitchen, consider the BBQ, construction materials and any appliances you want to include.
“A fridge or sink can save you trips in and out of the house.“
– Rhys Cain, Proprietor, Harvey Norman Darwin“A successful outdoor kitchen isn’t just about creating a visually impressive entertaining area — it’s about building a space that performs reliably in real outdoor conditions. That’s why materials like stainless steel, compact laminate and PVC have become the preferred choices for many outdoor kitchen projects. They combine durability, weather resistance, low maintenance and long-term visual appeal, allowing homeowners to spend more time enjoying the space and less time maintaining it.”
– James Dixon, Outdoor Living Manager, Harvey Norman BalgowlahSmokers
Top Tip 
Experiment with different wood chips like ironbark, hickory, red gum, cherry, or mesquite for rich and unique smoky flavours.
The low, slow flavour-maker
For cooks who know great things take time, smokers are the ultimate flavour makers. They cook low and slow, bathing brisket, ribs, poultry and seafood in hours of gentle, aromatic smoke until they’re fall-apart tender and juicy. Add steady heat control, roomy interiors and fuel options that shape your flavour profile, and you’ve got a cooking style that turns everyday cuts into mouth-watering, memorable meals.
Why you need your very own smoke show:
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Flavour that goes up in smoke: From charcoal to pellets, each fuel type brings its own flavour profile – dial in light smoke or full bark to your taste.
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Rack ‘n’ roll: Tiered dividers and multi-level racks let you cook it all at once – wings up top, ribs down low, veggies wherever they shine.
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Room to make magic: Spacious chambers with hanging rails, sausage hooks and jerky racks give you space to tackle big smokes and culinary experiments.
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Set it, don’t sweat it: Temperature gauges, digital controllers and grease-management systems ensure the barbie does the work while you play host.
Roll with the flavour: Locking castor wheels and removable trays make shifting, cleaning and setting up your smoker smoother than your pulled pork.
The Experts Say:
“Ninja BBQ/smokers are a great stepping stone for a beginner in smoking or someone who lives in a smaller space. Somebody who wants an easy 2-in-1 BBQ may lean toward the OKJ Combo griller/ smoker. Master built provide a great smoker and griller in one inexpensive module and the Kamado Joe range is a premium, more tailored option with multiple accessories to suit your style or menu.”
– Rhys Cain, Proprietor, Harvey Norman Darwin“The incorporation of bluetooth technology into smokers has reduced the learning curve greatly - traditional smokers such as off set and reverse flow are still popular, but pellet smokers and gravity fed charcoal grills have the added value of true set and forget.
Being able to monitor the cook with inbuilt temperature probes and the ability to adjust the temperature by just using your phone has done wonders for busy people who want to enjoy smoked foods without being stuck next to the grill.”
– James Dixon, Outdoor Living Manager, Harvey Norman BalgowlahPizza Ovens
Top Tip Stone thickness and insulation matter. Thicker pizza stones and well-insulated ovens hold heat better and keep performance consistent.
A slice above the rest
If bubbling cheese, delectably blistered bases and crispy crusts are your love language, then quality pizza ovens deliver! Built to reach scorching temperatures fast, they cook restaurant-style pizzas in minutes. Choose a wood-fired model for flavoursome depth, gas for speed and control or electric for plug-and-cook ease. It’s not just pizza on the menu – place your order for bread, ribs, steaks, roasted veg, seafood and more!
Why you’ll want a pizza the action:
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Ace your base: Some models offer preset pizza modes like thin crust, deep pan and artisan – giving you control of temps, timing and the overall finish.
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Take it away: Lightweight ovens with folding legs, and compact tabletop designs fit backyards, balconies and camping trips.
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Hot stuff: High-output burners, electric elements and rotating stone bases keep bottoms crisp, and your favourite toppings cooked evenly.
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Fast food: Quick heat-up and efficient heat recovery mean pizzas cook fast and the oven’s ready for the next one when you’re feeding a crowd.
More on the menu: Many models offer multi-function designs, letting you bake, roast and smoke – stretching your options well beyond pizza night!
BBQ Accessories
Top Tip Match accessories to how you cook. If you grill often, prioritise heat-resistant tools and a quality thermometer; if you entertain, look for warming racks, rotisserie kits or pizza stones to expand your menu!
Tools of the trade
The best BBQ accessories don’t just look the goods, they improve results, save time and protect your setup. From thermometers that take the guesswork out of cooking to utensils designed for safe handling at high heat, the essentials make all the difference. Add tastebud-tantalising rubs and seasonings, along with covers, cleaning tools and drip trays – and you’ll keep your BBQ at peak performance, cook after cook.
Why they’re worth adding to the toolkit:
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Enhanced cooking: Digital and probe thermometers, grill mats and warming racks help you cook food evenly, hit the right doneness and manage multiple items on the grill at once.
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Easy maintenance: BBQ covers, brushes, scrapers and drip trays protect against weather, reduce grease build-up and extend the life of your BBQ.
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Everyday convenience: Long-handled spatulas, tongs and basting brushes make it easier to flip, turn and glaze food safely without getting too close to the heat.
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Customise your cook:: Accessories like rotisseries, pizza stones and smoker boxes let you expand what your BBQ can do, from slow-roasted meats to crispy pizzas and smoky flavours.
BBQ FAQs: Fired-Up Answers, No Half-Baked Qs
What size gas bottle do I need for my BBQ, and how long will it last?
Most full‑size gas BBQs pair best with a 9kg LPG bottle, for 10-20 hours of cooking, depending on how hot you cook and how many burners are firing. Smaller BBQs usually run on a 4kg bottle, which lasts about 4-8 hours. Match the bottle to your BBQ’s regulator and check the test date before firing it up.
How do I clean the BBQ grill plates and burners properly?
After cooking, crank your BBQ to high heat for five minutes to burn off the leftovers, then brush the warm grill plates and wipe all surfaces. Every few months, remove the plates and burners and soak in hot, soapy water, followed by a gentle scrub and dry.
Do I need to season my BBQ before first use?
If your grill plates are cast iron or steel, seasoning helps prevent rust, boost flavour and make cooking less sticky. Coat clean plates with a light layer of oil at a high smoke point, then run the BBQ on medium heat for 20-30 minutes until they turn a satin black
Can I use a BBQ on my balcony or apartment?
Balcony BBQs are allowed, depending on your building rules and local fire regulations, so it’s best to check first. Got the green light? Go for a compact electric or small gas BBQ, keep it at least 500mm from walls or railings, and use a fire‑safe mat underneath.
How do I store my BBQ when not in use?
Before storing, give it a good clean and make sure everything is completely dry. Disconnect the gas bottle and store it upright outdoors, then cover the BBQ with a weatherproof cover and store it somewhere sheltered.
What’s the best way to transport a portable BBQ for camping or road trips?
Before you hit the road, empty any ash or grease, secure loose parts and lock the lid. Use a padded carry bag or straps to prevent bumps – and remember, gas canisters should stay upright and well‑ventilated during travel for safety.
Can I upgrade my BBQ with extra burners, rotisserie kits or smart thermometers later?
Many BBQs are built to grow with you, making it easy to add extras like side burners, rotisserie kits or smart thermometers – just double‑check that the accessories are compatible with your specific model.
Which BBQs are safest for families with young kids or pets?
Families with young kids or pets are best suited to electric BBQs or well‑insulated gas models that are designed with safety in mind. Look for features like cool-touch lid handles, double‑layer hoods, recessed control knobs and locking castors to reduce burn risks and prevent tip‑overs. Built‑in flame tamers also help minimise flare‑ups.
What should I look for in a BBQ if I want to entertain large groups versus small families?
For entertaining large groups, look for a BBQ with at least four independently controlled burners, plus handy extras like warming racks or rotisserie mounts. If you’re cooking for couples or small families, a compact two‑burner or portable BBQ is more than enough, offering great heat control without taking up too much space or fuel.
Are there BBQs designed for coastal or humid climates?
Absolutely, look for models made from 304 or 316 marine-grade stainless steel, rust-resistant cast aluminium or durable enamel-coated finishes that stand up to salty sea air and moisture.
