How well does it cook? We have two independent chefs cook a typical barbecue feast and rate food on evenness of cooking, how tender and succulent it is as well as its overall flavour and appearance. Which? is independent meaning we work for you, the consumer. We buy all the products that go to our test lab, so you can be sure that our barbecue recommendations are influenced only by our test results and not by the manufacturers. It seems to me that the most popular model is the Expert Grill 3 burner gas grill, used to smoke brisket, pork butt, turkey, and more.

Grilling is just part of the barbecue story: some models can smoke, fry, sauté, boil, bake and even roast. Griddles and hot plates are an increasingly common feature of gas barbecues, as are side burners for cooking accompaniments. How much do I need to pay?

Whether you’re looking for something cheap and cheerful or an all-singing, all-dancing grill, these are the best portable BBQs you can buy

This is absolutely my position right now. Wood pellet BBQs are the best all-round outdoor cookers on the market today, but that doesn't mean you should just run out and buy one straight away. Key specs – Fuel type: Charcoal and gas; Cooking area: 43 x 44cm (per area); Dimensions (HWD): 116 x x 139 x 59cm; Weight: 38.75kg

As well as being the undisputed king of personal grills, George Foreman has also put his name to a series of gas BBQs that are just as stylish and affordable as their smaller siblings. This model features three individual burners and an impressively spacious cooking area, allowing you to have up to ten portions on the go at once. There’s also an integrated thermometer, which lets you keep control of the temperature of each individual cooking zone. So whether you’re whipping up burgers, steaks, fish or veggie kebabs, you can ensure perfect temperatures throughout.The Kamodo Joe Charcoal Grill is regarded as a direct competitor to the famous Big Green Egg. But at less than half the price, it’s a great option for serious grill fans looking for a slightly more affordable alternative. It does still come with a hefty price tag, but boasts almost all the same features as the much pricier Egg. Key specs – Fuel type: Propane gas; Cooking area: 50 x 41.5cm; Dimensions (WDH): 116.2 x 55.4 x 111.3cm; Weight: 23kg

Premium Dual Fuel Charcoal and Gas Combi BBQ: The best BBQ if you can’t decide between gas or charcoal Second, make sure you use both the right gas and the right adapter. Some models will only take one type of fuel, whereas others come with fittings that allow you to use both. Before you try to start the grill, make sure you’re using the right connector and the right gas, and that any adapters are properly fitted. Key Specs – Fuel type: Butane/propane/camping gas; Number of burners: 1; Cooking area: 47 x 35cm; Dimensions (WDH): 44 x 97 x 39cm; Weight: 19kg If that doesn’t scare you off, though, it’s well worth the investment. The Kamado Joe offers precise temperature control, allowing you to cook at both very high and very low temperatures. It’s ideal for a range of BBQ delights and you can even make cake in it. Whether it ever leaves your patio or not, it’s a great compact BBQ.

Tabletop grills are most of the time smaller and also very portable and that makes them so popular in my opinion.