If you think the backyard is the only place to cook outdoors, imagine how it would be for a city dweller to have a hibachi on the fire escape, a portable-size grill at the stadium parking, or just enjoy a flavorful outdoor meal right from your kitchen.

According to barbecue expert Steven Raichlen, there are 6 major types of grills: open grill, covered grill, vessel (ceramic) grill, rotisserie grill, smoker grill and open pit grill.  But you don’t want to make a hole in your backyard for an open pit, nor bring a metal smoker to drive the neighborhood crazy.

And then you have the popular self-standing grills.  Whether it’s gas, charcoal, wood or electric, they come in handy for any last minute barbecue party.

1. Gas Grills

Gas grills are designed for those who are not patient for the slow-cooking charcoal.  They are the most popular type of grill for the past 25 years; just connect a propane tank or natural gas and you’re ready for a barbecue. If there is an access to a natural gas line, it becomes more convenient and less expensive than refilling propane tanks.

Economical grills are usually made from aluminum in an array of colors, and with two burners.  The grill can last a long time with proper maintenance.  And the stainless steel grills can come with up to 5 burners and a side-burner for heating food in a pot or pan

Advantages – Perfect for a chef who quickly wants to prepare a meal on the grill without a lot of preparing, and later cleaning up, of charcoal.

Disadvantages – Some gas grills have a small smoker box, so you will only get a hint of smoke flavor.  Also, the price of a gas grill can be expensive.  Prices may vary, but are definitely more expensive than a charcoal grill

2. Charcoal Grills

Usually, the “normal” grills use charcoal as the fuel and firepower for cooking.  It is more time-consuming.  A good charcoal takes, at least, 45 minutes to an hour to create a grey coal coat before its ready to cook any meat, poultry or fish. If the charcoal is made from natural wood, the better the taste will be.

Advantages – Perfect for a chef who prefers the smoky, grilled flavor that can only be achieved with a charcoal grill.  Charcoal burns at a higher temperature than gas, so for the grill expert, it is easier to sear meat.

Disadvantages – not for the chef who is in a rush.  If you want a good charcoal barbecue taste, you need to have at least 45 minutes to light the coal and pre-heat the grill.  You also need time to clean up the grill and dispose of the ashes after cooking and cooling the grill.  Last but not least, the cost of charcoal can be expensive when compared to gas.

3. Electric Grills

Thanks to George Foreman, city dwellers can have an indoor/outdoor electric grill.  It comes in handy, especially for those who live in buildings where gas and charcoal grills are prohibited by fire regulations.

Advantages – they are excellent artifacts to use indoors without the hassle.

Disadvantages – don’t expect to get the smoky flavor; it gets lost with electricity and they are not a replacement for the traditional grill.

4. Portable Grills

These grills can run on propane or charcoal, but all have one thing in common – they are portable and easy to take from one place to another.

Advantages – portable grills are perfect for a picnic or in the parking lot before the big game.  There are many styles available and, in most cases are lightweight.

Disadvantages – size; you can’t cook hamburgers for 50 people.  If there is a large crowd, you must become the grill master of the day.

You can choose the grill that is best for you based on what is important to you.  It can be time, flavor, portability.  We are sure that these simple recommendations may help you find the perfect grill for your money.  But most of all, to have the tastiest barbecue any time of the year.