What Size BBQ Grill Do I Need? A Simple Guide
by
Adam Hodgkiss
20 Jan 2026
Choosing the right BBQ grill size is one of the most important decisions you’ll make — and one of the most common mistakes buyers get wrong. Too small, and you’ll struggle when guests come over. Too big, and you may waste space and fuel.
Here’s how to choose the perfect grill size for your needs.
🔹 How BBQ Grill Size Is Measured
Grill size is usually measured by total cooking area, listed in square inches. This includes:
Primary cooking grates
Warming racks (sometimes counted separately)
As a general rule:
100–150 sq in per person is a comfortable amount of space.
🔹 Grill Size Recommendations
Small Grills (300–450 sq in)
Best for:
- Couples or small families
- Occasional grilling
- Can cook:
- 6–8 burgers
- 2–3 steaks
- A few vegetables at once
Medium Grills (450–650 sq in)
Best for:
- Families of 4–6
- Regular entertaining
- Most backyard setups
- Can cook:
- 10–14 burgers
- Multiple proteins at once
- Full meals without crowding
Large Grills (650+ sq in)
Best for:
- Frequent entertainers
- Large families
- Serious BBQ enthusiasts
- Can cook:
- 18+ burgers
- Whole chickens or roasts
- Multiple zones for direct and indirect heat
FAQs
Q: Is bigger always better?
No. Bigger grills need more fuel, space, and cleaning. Buy for how you actually cook most days.
Q: How much space do I need around a grill?
Leave at least 2–3 feet of clearance on all sides for safety and airflow.
Q: Can a small grill still handle guests?
Yes — but you may need to cook in batches.
📍 Still unsure? Visit our showroom in Chorley and see different grill sizes in person. We’ll help you choose the right size for your space and cooking style — no guesswork required.