Weber Family Q vs Beefeater Bigg Bugg [Comparison]

Featured Image: Weber Family Q Premium / Source: Amazon

Weber and Beefeater are two of the most popular BBQ brands in Australia. Below, we compare the two to help you decide which one is right for your needs.

BBQs used in this comparison

In this guide, we’ve compared the Weber Family Q (Q3100) with the Beefeater Bigg Bugg. This is the most like-for-like model in the Beefeater gas BBQ range.

We’ve also included the Weber Family Q Premium (Q3200), which includes a few upgrades from the standard model.

Key Takeaways

These BBQs are very similar, all with enamelled cast iron grills and two stainless steel burners.

The key differences are as follows:

• Lid-down cooking – Weber BBQs are designed for indirect cooking (lid down) while Beefeater BBQs are designed to be used with the lid up or down.
• Burner location – To assist with the indirect cooking method, both of the Weber models have one main burner around the outside and another in the middle. The Beefeater Bigg Bugg burners are positioned side by side.
• Cooking area – The Beefeater has a slightly larger total cooking area (2460 cm² vs 2400 cm²).
• Ignition – The Beefeater and Weber Family Q have piezo igniters while the Family Q Premium is equipped with a premium electronic ignition.
• Thermometer – Only the Weber Family Q Premium and the Beefeater Bigg Bugg come with a built-in lid thermometer.
• Colours – The Weber Family Q is available in titanium or black, the Premium model also comes in red, and the Bigg Bugg in amber, grey, or black.
• Warranty – Weber provides a 5-year warranty on the cook box, lid, grills, and plastic components, while Beefeater’s warranty is 2 years.
• Availability – Weber’s Family Q is sold through many national retailers such as The Good Guys. The Family Q Premium is only sold through Weber Specialist Dealers and Weber Stores. It’s also available from Weber’s Amazon store. Beefeater BBQs are sold at a range of retailers..

Key similarities

Enamelled cast iron grills

The Weber Family Q and Beefeater Bigg Bugg both come with enamel-coated cast iron grills which makes them rust protected and durable.

The Bigg Bugg has a vitreous enamelled cast iron cooking grill, while the grills on the Weber Family Q are porcelain enamelled.

The enamel assists with heat distribution and makes them easier to clean.

Number of burners

All of these BBQs have 2 stainless steel burners.

On the Webers, one main burner runs around the outside and another is located in the middle, which assists with the indirect cooking method that Weber BBQs are designed for.

The Beefeater Bigg Bugg features two burners positioned side by side.

Size

These two BBQs are roughly the same size, so this will probably not be a factor in any purchase decisions.

In terms of total cooking area, the Weber Family Q BBQs measure 2400 cm², while the Bigg Bugg comes in at 2460 cm².

Heavy-Duty Cart

All of these BBQs come with a heavy-duty cart, which serves as storage space and features side tables for extra preparation area. These side tables are perfect for storing your plates, food and drinks.

Removable Catch Pan

All Beefeater Bugg and Weber Q models have a catch tray that collects grease during the cooking process, making for easy cleanup.

Key differences

Ignition

The Beefeater and Weber Family Q utilize piezo igniters, while the Family Q Premium boasts an electronic ignition system.

Piezo starters are a popular option for gas-powered appliances since they require no power source. They work well and are easy to use but there can sometimes be issues with longevity.

Electronic ignition systems are generally found on most premium grills. They generate a spark by applying the voltage from a battery, so, therefore, need a battery to operate (1 x AA in this case).

Thermometer

Unlike the standard Weber Family Q, the Premium is designed with a lid thermometer, allowing you to monitor cooking temperatures while roasting or grilling.

This is probably the biggest factor that sways people to opt for the Q3200 over the Q3100.

Like the Q3200, the Beefeater Bigg Bugg also features a lid-thermometer.

Colours

The Weber Family Q is available in Titanium or Black, while the Premium model also comes with the option of a red colourway.

The Bigg Bugg comes in amber, grey, or black.

Price

If you’re on a budget, the Beefeater Bugg might be the more attractive option.

At the time of writing, it retails for approximately $200 less than the two Weber models.

Warranty

Weber provides a 5-year warranty on all the key components of the Q3100 and Q3200 (grills, lid, cook box, burner tubes). All remaining parts have a 2-year warranty.

Beefeater’s warranty is 2 years.

Comparison table

Making your selection

There’s a lot to like about all of the BBQs in this comparison. They’re easy to use and reliable, deliver consistent cooking temperatures, and feature high-quality components.

In terms of choosing between the Weber Family Q and Beefeater Bigg Bugg, there are only a few things that are likely to sway you one way or the other.

The first is whether you are willing to embrace the lid-down, indirect cooking method that Webers are designed for. If not, you’re probably best with the Beefeater.

Next is the built-in lid thermometer found only on the Premium Weber or the Beefeater. It’s not essential, but for lid-down cooking, it’s very convenient.

And finally, the price difference is likely to play a role for many people. At the time of writing, the Bigg Bugg retails for approximately $200 less than the two Weber models.