The best balcony electric BBQs are a great option for those who are not blessed with an outdoor space. Nothing says spring or summer like the smell of a freshly lit BBQ, and not having a garden or outdoor space doesn't mean you can't enjoy yummy BBQ food surrounded by your loved ones - even though your balcony is on the small side.
Electric BBQs have risen in popularity in recent years, with many opting for smaller and more compact BBQs that they can take on the move. As the weather warms up and we all look forward to the May bank holidays, sales of BBQs are up 43 per cent compared to this time last year, with balcony-safe BBQ searches up 267 per cent, as many get ready to play host to family and friends.
Best electric balcony BBQs at a glance:
• Best overall: Ninja OG701UK Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker - Buy now on Amazon UK
• Best value: TOWER electric indoor BBQ - Buy now on TOWER
• Best luxury: Weber Lumin Electric BBQ, Black - Buy now on John Lewis
This huge increase in shoppers hunting for a BBQ for their balcony could be down to local councils and supermarkets shunning disposable BBQs as they are becoming a relic of pre-environmentally conscious times.
In this guide, we've rounded up the best electric balcony-safe BBQs on the market, from those that come with bells and whistles to the more simple and compact grills.
Best electric balcony BBQs
Best overall
Description
With a whole load of five-star reviews and a celebrity chef endorsement from none other than Gino
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Cheap to run
- You can smoke whole cuts of meat
- Effortless
Cons
- Needs to preheat
- Does generate smoke when you use the smoker function
Best for a luxury feel
www.johnlewis.com
Description
If you're looking to invest in an outdoor BBQ that you can use on your balcony and beyond, the
Pros
- Smoke infusion
- Compact and easy to move around
- Luxury finishes
Cons
- No customer reviews yet as a new product on the market
Best for compact size
Description
Pros
- Easy to put together
- Great quality
Cons
- Difficult to clean after use
Best value
www.towerhousewares.co.uk
Description
Made for use indoors and outdoors, this 2-in-1 TOWER electric indoor BBQ can be used as a
Pros
- Removable legs so can be used as a tabletop grill
- Fat drip tray included
Cons
- Some reviews have commented that it's a little flimsy
Best round-shaped electric BBQ
Description
If you're short on space, this round indoor and outdoor BBQ from George Foreman will easily fit in
Pros
- Gets to temperature quickly
- Easy-to-clean removable plates
- Temperature regulating
Cons
- Stand could be wobbly
Best tabletop electric BBQ for your balcony
www.diy.com
Description
This easy-to-use and small Quest Indoor Electric BBQ Grill has been made specifically for indoor
Pros
- Super easy to use and clean
- Great value
- Water drip tray is so useful
Cons
- It is small
Best for healthy cooking
www.argos.co.uk
Description
George Foreman grills are famous for helping you cook delicious food without all the grease, and
Pros
- Super easy to clean
- Heats up quickly
Cons
- More of a smokeless griddle pan rather than a bbq
FAQs
What is the difference between an electric BBQ and a gas BBQ?
Most people are familiar with gas BBQs, charcoal and hybrid BBQs, but electric BBQs are plugged into the mains and much easier to control. There is no need to use charcoal or gas cylinders.
Can you use BBQs on balconies?
Before you start barbecuing on your balcony, first check the house rules of your landlord or your building. Even if you own your own flat or apartment, it is worth checking out the rules just to be safe. There is no law that prohibits barbecuing on a balcony, but some buildings have regulations on what is allowed and what isn't. Electric grills are a great option if you're worried about smoke billowing out.
How can I ensure a balcony BBQ is safe?
The London Fire Brigade say that you should avoid using a gas, hybrid BBQ or charcoal BBQ on a balcony. If you choose to buy an electric BBQ, you should never leave it unattended and keep it well away from children or anything that might catch fire.
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Description
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Hannah Mellin is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Modern Gardens, A Modern Kitchen, Yours and Take A Break. She has been working in the Journalism industry for over a decade and has written for an array of brands including John Lewis, Daily Mirror and Grazia. When she's not writing, researching or testing products, she's renovating her Victorian terrace and chilling in the garden with her sausage dog Waffle.