Big Green Egg vs. Traditional BBQs: Ultimate Cooking Machine of 2025

February 25 2025, by Steven Gray, 5 min reading time

For BBQ enthusiasts, choosing the right grill can be a game-changer. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a dedicated pitmaster, the debate between Big Green Egg Kamado grills and traditional BBQs continues to heat up in 2025. Each option brings its unique advantages, cooking techniques, and flavours to the table. But which one suits your needs best? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare these two heavyweights in the BBQ world, analysing their features, performance, efficiency, and versatility to help you make an informed decision.

What is the Big Green Egg?

The Big Green Egg (BGE) is a Kamado-style ceramic grill known for its superior heat retention and versatility. Inspired by ancient Japanese and Chinese clay cooking vessels, the Big Green Egg offers a grill, smoker, and oven all in one. Its thick ceramic walls ensure consistent temperatures, making it a favourite for low-and-slow cooking, baking, roasting, and searing at high temperatures.

Key Features of the Big Green Egg:

Superior heat retention for long cooking sessions.
Precise temperature control with adjustable vents.
Multi-functional design (grill, smoker, oven).
Moisture retention keeps food juicy and tender.
Uses lump charcoal, which enhances the smoky flavour.
Highly durable ceramic body designed to last for decades.

What is a Traditional BBQ?

Traditional BBQs come in various types, including gas, charcoal, and pellet grills. These BBQs have been a staple for backyard grilling for decades, offering different levels of control, fuel efficiency, and ease of use.

Types of Traditional BBQs:

Gas BBQs: Quick ignition, convenient, and great for fast grilling.
Charcoal BBQs: Delivers authentic smoky flavours, but requires more effort to maintain temperature.
Pellet Grills: Uses wood pellets for fuel, offering a balance between convenience and smoky flavour.

Key Features of Traditional BBQs

Variety of options based on fuel preference.
Easier setup and familiarity for many users.
Affordable choices for beginners and professionals alike.
Great for high-heat grilling and everyday use.
Portable versions available for on-the-go grilling.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Big Green Egg vs. Traditional BBQs

1. Cooking Performance & Versatility

Big Green Egg: Offers a wide range of cooking techniques, from slow-smoking brisket to baking artisan pizzas at high heat.

Traditional BBQs: Depend on the type—gas BBQs are great for grilling, charcoal BBQs provide a smoky taste, and pellet grills offer slow-cooked flavours.

Verdict: The Big Green Egg takes the lead in versatility, but if you mainly grill, a traditional gas BBQ is more convenient.

2. Temperature Control

Big Green Egg: Precise temperature adjustments via top and bottom vents, maintaining steady heat for hours.

Traditional BBQs: Gas BBQs have instant temperature adjustments, while charcoal and pellet grills require more attention.

Verdict: BGE excels in steady low-and-slow cooking, but gas BBQs are quicker for on-demand heat.

3. Fuel Efficiency & Cost

Big Green Egg: Uses lump charcoal, which burns hotter and longer, making it fuel-efficient in the long run.

Traditional BBQs: Gas BBQs use propane/natural gas, which is cost-effective; charcoal BBQs require constant refuelling.

Verdict: BGE is more fuel-efficient over time, but gas BBQs are cost-friendly for frequent grilling.

4. Durability & Maintenance

Big Green Egg: Made from high-grade ceramic, built to last decades with proper care.

Traditional BBQs: Metal construction can rust over time, but stainless steel models offer better longevity.

Verdict: The Big Green Egg is a long-term investment, while traditional BBQs may require replacements sooner.

5. Flavour & Smoke Retention

Big Green Egg: Exceptional smoke infusion and moisture retention for deeper flavours.

Traditional BBQs: Charcoal and pellet grills produce great smoke, while gas grills rely on marinades for added flavour.

Verdict: If you love authentic smoky flavours, the Big Green Egg or a charcoal BBQ is the best choice.

Conclusion

Choosing between a Big Green Egg Kamado grill and a traditional BBQ ultimately depends on your grilling style and cooking needs. If you crave versatility, long-lasting durability, and enhanced flavour, the Big Green Egg is an unbeatable option. However, if you prioritise quick and convenient grilling, a traditional gas or pellet BBQ might be the better choice.

At Hot Things, we proudly offer both Big Green Egg Kamado grills and a variety of traditional BBQs, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your backyard cooking experience.

Explore our premium BBQ collection today! Whether you're looking for a Big Green Egg or a high-quality traditional BBQ, we've got you covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Big Green Egg better than a traditional BBQ?

It depends on your cooking style. The Big Green Egg offers superior versatility (grilling, smoking, baking), while traditional BBQs like gas grills are more convenient for fast grilling.

Does the Big Green Egg take longer to heat up than a gas BBQ?

Yes. The Big Green Egg takes about 15-20 minutes to reach cooking temperature, whereas gas BBQs heat up almost instantly.

Which BBQ is best for smoking meat?

The Big Green Egg and pellet grills excel in smoking due to better heat and smoke retention. Gas grills struggle with authentic smoking unless equipped with a smoker box.

Is maintaining a Big Green Egg difficult?

No! The Big Green Egg is low maintenance, needing only occasional cleaning of ash and lump charcoal replacement. Traditional BBQs may require burner maintenance and rust prevention.

Is a Big Green Egg worth the investment?

If you love BBQ and want a long-lasting, versatile cooker, the Big Green Egg is an excellent investment. However, if you mainly grill steaks and burgers, a gas BBQ might be a better choice.