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BBQ guides & equipment
Practical guides to BBQ grills, smokers and equipment: how each one works, how to control heat and smoke, and what matters when you buy.
One in-depth guide for each part of the site, from choosing a grill to cooking safely and keeping your equipment in shape.
Choosing a grill starts with understanding the four main types: charcoal, gas, pellet, and electric. Each uses a different fuel source, offering unique flavor, convenience, and cooking style.
Choosing the right smoker depends on your fuel preference, cooking space, and how involved you want to be. This guide walks you through the key decisions.
A guide to the essential BBQ tools and accessories every backyard cook needs, from the must-have thermometer to grilling tools, safety gear, and maintenance items.
Our complete guide to BBQ for beginners covers everything from choosing your first grill to mastering the two-zone fire and using a thermometer for perfect results.
Master BBQ food safety with our guide to safe internal temperatures, proper handling techniques, and rules for storing leftovers.
A comprehensive seasonal schedule for BBQ grill and smoker maintenance to keep your equipment safe, efficient, and ready for every cookout.
This comprehensive BBQ grill buying guide walks you through the key decisions—fuel type, size, budget, and features—to help you find the perfect grill for your backyard.
Charcoal, gas, pellet and electric grills explained: how they cook, who they suit, and the features that change results.
Kettle, kamado and portable charcoal grills, plus the accessories that make charcoal easier to manage.
Propane and natural gas grills by burner count and size, including portable models.
Wood pellet grills from entry-level to Wi-Fi models, and how to keep them running.
Indoor, outdoor and compact electric grills for balconies, apartments and small spaces.
Smoker types and the skills behind low and slow cooking.
How offset, electric, pellet, vertical and drum smokers differ in fuel, control and flavor.
Setting up a smoker, holding a steady temperature, choosing wood and cleaning up afterward.
Tools, thermometers and accessories that make grilling safer and more consistent.
Tongs, spatulas, brushes, gloves and tool sets: materials, length and safety.
Instant-read, wireless and probe thermometers, and temperature controllers for smokers.
Covers, baskets, mats, chimney starters and smoker accessories.
Direct and indirect heat, two-zone cooking, reverse searing and smoke.
Direct and indirect heat, two-zone cooking, reverse searing and managing grill temperature.
Low and slow and hot smoking, smoke flavor, wood types and smoker temperature.
Meat, seafood, vegetables, sauces and rubs, with safe cooking temperatures.
Beef, pork, chicken, turkey and lamb on the grill and smoker, with safe internal temperatures.
Seafood, grilled vegetables, BBQ side dishes, sauces and dry rubs.
What to compare before you buy a grill, smoker, thermometer or cover.
What to compare when buying a charcoal, gas, pellet or portable grill.
Buying criteria for meat thermometers, tool sets, grill covers and BBQ gloves.
We compared specs for top chimney starters to find picks for large capacity, durable stainless steel, easy cleaning, and multi-pack value, all without hands-on testing.
A durable grill cover protects your investment from sun, rain, and wind. We compared manufacturer specs to find top options for heavy-duty fabric, waterproofing, and secure fits.
We compared leading bristle-free grill brushes based on manufacturer specs. Our top pick offers durable construction and a long warranty, while others provide unique features like replaceable heads and integrated scrapers.
Finding the best meat thermometer means balancing speed, accuracy, and usability. We compared manufacturer specs to find top picks for instant-read digital thermometers.
We compared manufacturer listings for popular grill tool sets on Amazon. Our overall pick is the Grilljoy 8-piece set for its heavy-duty stainless steel construction and practical carrying bag.
Starting your BBQ journey is easier with an electric smoker. We compared listings to find models with simple controls, good capacity, and beginner-friendly features.
BBQ Forums is an independent guide to grilling and smoking at home. Despite the name, this is not a discussion forum: we publish practical guides that explain how grills and smokers work, how to control heat and smoke, and what to look for when you buy equipment.
New to barbecue? Start with BBQ for beginners, then read about the types of BBQ grills or how to choose a smoker. Before your next cookout, check our BBQ food safety guide for safe internal temperatures.