Big Green Egg Size Guide: Which Size Should You Buy?

Most BGE dealers will tell you the Large is best for everyone. They're not wrong - the Large is the right choice for about 70% of buyers.

But the other 30% need different advice based on their actual cooking situations.

As an authorised Platinum Big Green Egg Dealer, we've spent seven years cooking on Big Green Eggs and selling them at BBQ Republic, and we know which sizes work for different situations.

This guide breaks down all five Big Green Egg sizes with honest assessments based on real-world use. No fluff, no marketing speak. Just the information you need to choose correctly the first time.

We stock the complete Big Green Egg range at our Wetherill Park showroom. See them in person, understand the size differences, get expert advice from people who actually cook on these grills.

Questions about Big Green Egg sizing? Call 0434 010 411 or visit our showroom.

Quick Answer

Most people should buy: Large Big Green Egg
Starting price: $2,500 (Built-in Bundle)

Why the Large:

• Feeds 4-6 people comfortably
  
• Versatile enough for small dinners and large gatherings
  
• Runs 8-12 hours on one charcoal load
  
• Fits standard 18-inch pizza stones
  
• Easy to manage for one person
  
• Most aftermarket accessories available

When to buy smaller: You primarily cook for 1-2 people and space is limited (MiniMax or Medium)

When to buy larger: You regularly cook for 8+ people or run a catering operation (XL or 2XL)

Shop the Big Green Egg Range →

Keep reading to understand why these recommendations matter and which size actually suits your situation.

Understanding Big Green Egg Sizes

Big Green Egg makes five sizes. Each delivers the same ceramic performance and temperature control. The differences are cooking area, charcoal capacity, weight, and price.

The Five Sizes:

• MiniMax (portable)
  
• Medium
  
• Large (most popular)
  
• XL
  
• 2XL

What stays the same across all sizes:

• Ceramic construction quality
  
• Temperature control precision (107-400°C range)
  
• Lifetime warranty on ceramics
  
• Fuel efficiency (charcoal only, no gas)
  
• Cooking versatility (grill, smoke, bake, roast)

Not sure whether charcoal is right for you? Read our Gas vs Charcoal guide first.

What changes with size:

• Cooking surface area
  
• Charcoal capacity and burn time
  
• Weight and portability
  
• Number of people you can feed per cook
  
• Price

The smallest Egg (MiniMax) is genuinely portable. The largest (2XL) weighs 170kg and requires two people to move. Everything in between represents different trade-offs between capacity and convenience.

MiniMax: The Portable Option

Specifications

Cooking area: 255 sq cm

Grid diameter: 33 cm (13 inches)

Feeds: 2 to 4 people

Weight: 36kg (portable with Carrier)

Starting price: $1,500

What It Does Well

Genuinely Portable

The only BGE you can actually transport regularly. Fits in car boots with the optional Carrier accessory. Take it camping, to the beach, to friends' houses.

The Carrier accessory ($250) makes this practical. Without it, moving a MiniMax is awkward despite the manageable weight.

Perfect for Small Spaces

Balconies, small courtyards, apartment terraces. Takes minimal floor space.

Efficient Charcoal Usage

Small firebox means less charcoal per cook. One chimney of charcoal runs 4-6 hours at smoking temperatures.

Full BGE Capability

Don't let the size fool you. The MiniMax hits 400°C+ for pizza. Holds smoking temperatures for 6-8 hours. Bakes bread, roasts chicken, smokes brisket.

Considering a pellet smoker as an alternative? Read our Best Pellet Smokers for Australia guide.

Limitations

Cooking Capacity

Grid diameter is 33cm. That's one 12-inch pizza, four chicken thighs, or two small racks of ribs. You cannot fit a full brisket flat.

For parties or gatherings, expect multiple cook cycles. Not ideal if you're feeding more than 4 people regularly.

Limited Accessories

Smaller accessory market than Large or XL. Pizza stones, plate setters, and grids are available but fewer third-party options.

No Rotisserie Option

The MiniMax cannot accommodate rotisserie attachments due to size constraints.

Who Should Buy the MiniMax

Buy the MiniMax if:

• You primarily cook for 1-2 people
  
• Portability matters (camping, tailgating, travelling)
  
• Space is limited (balcony, small courtyard)
  
• You want BGE performance without the footprint
  
• Budget is a consideration but you want ceramic quality

Skip the MiniMax if:

• You regularly cook for 4+ people
  
• You want rotisserie capability
  
• Portability does not matter
  
• You plan to cook large cuts (whole briskets, multiple racks of ribs)

Shop the MiniMax →

Medium: The Underrated Middle Ground

Specifications

Cooking area: 340 sq cm

Grid diameter: 38 cm (15 inches)

Feeds: 2 to 4 people

Weight: 57kg

Starting price: $2,000

The Honest Assessment

The Medium occupies awkward territory. It's 33% larger than the MiniMax but costs $500 more. It's slightly smaller than the Large but only $500 cheaper.

Most people skip the Medium entirely. They either buy the MiniMax (for portability and price) or the Large (for capacity and versatility).

What the Medium Does Well

Manageable Size

Still fits in tight spaces but offers more cooking area than the MiniMax. Good compromise if space is somewhat limited but you need more capacity than the MiniMax provides.

Lower Charcoal Consumption Than Large

Smaller firebox means less charcoal per cook compared to the Large. Matters if you cook frequently and charcoal cost adds up.

Full Temperature Range

Like all BGEs, achieves full temperature spectrum from low-and-slow smoking to high-heat pizza cooking.

Why Most People Skip It

Price vs Value

Only $500 less than the Large but significantly less cooking area. The Large offers better value for most buyers.

Not Truly Portable

At 57kg, the Medium is not something you move regularly. If portability matters, buy the MiniMax. If it does not, buy the Large.

Limited Capacity for Gatherings

Can handle small family dinners but struggles with larger gatherings. You'll quickly wish you had the Large.

Who Should Buy the Medium

Buy the Medium if:

• You cook for 2-3 people consistently (not larger)
  
• Space constraints rule out the Large
  
• Budget is tight and MiniMax is too small
  
• You do not plan to scale up cooking for gatherings

Honestly, we recommend most people either go smaller (MiniMax for portability) or larger (Large for versatility). The Medium is not wrong, but it's rarely the best answer.

Shop the Medium BGE →

Large: The Sweet Spot (Most Popular)

Specifications

Cooking area: 470 sq cm

Grid diameter: 46 cm (18 inches)

Feeds: 4 to 6 people

Weight: 73kg

Starting price: $2,500

Why the Large is the Default Choice

The Large Big Green Egg represents the optimal balance of capacity, versatility, and manageability. After seven years selling BGEs, approximately 70% of buyers choose the Large.

Cooking Capacity

The 46cm grid accommodates:

• One full brisket (4-6kg) laid flat
  
• Two full racks of pork ribs
  
• Whole chicken (up to 2.5kg) with room for vegetables
  
• Eight chicken thighs
  
• Six burgers
  
• 18-inch pizza

This capacity handles regular family dinners and occasional larger gatherings without multiple cook cycles.

Charcoal Efficiency

One full load of lump charcoal (approximately 3-4kg) runs:

• 10-14 hours at smoking temperatures (110-135°C)
  
• 6-8 hours at roasting temperatures (180-220°C)
  
• 3-4 hours at high heat (300°C+)

For overnight brisket smokes, expect one mid-cook refuel. Most other cooks run on a single load.

Accessories & Support

The Large has the most extensive accessory ecosystem:

• Dozens of pizza stone options (all 18-inch stones fit)
  
• Multiple rotisserie systems available
  
• Extensive third-party accessory market (Kick Ash Basket, Adjustable Rig, Smokestone)
  
• Standard size for most BGE cookbooks and online recipes

Manageable for One Person

At 73kg, the Large is not light. But one person can move it when needed (rarely) and manage all aspects of cooking without assistance.

Limitations

Not Portable

The Large stays where you put it. Moving requires two people or a dolly.

All Large Big Green Egg purchases include free Sydney-wide delivery and installation. We personally deliver and set up every grill we sell.

Space Requirements

Needs approximately 60cm diameter footprint plus clearance. Not ideal for very small courtyards or balconies.

Price

Price. $2,500 starting price (Built-in Bundle) is not cheap. But every Big Green Egg comes with a lifetime warranty on the ceramics, and it's the best value in the BGE range for most users.

Who Should Buy the Large

Buy the Large if:

• You cook for 2-6 people regularly
  
• You occasionally host larger gatherings (8-12 people with strategic cooking)
  
• You want maximum versatility (grilling, smoking, baking, roasting)
  
• You have adequate outdoor space
  
• Budget allows for proper investment

View the Large Big Green Egg →

Our recommendation: Unless you have specific reasons to go smaller (portability) or larger (professional use), buy the Large.

XL: For Serious Cooks and Large Gatherings

Specifications

Cooking area: 670 sq cm

Grid diameter: 56 cm (22 inches)

Feeds: 6 to 10 people

Weight: 99kg

Starting price: $3,400

When the XL Makes Sense

The XL is not just a bigger Large. It's a different tool for different needs.

Significantly More Cooking Area

The XL grid is 43% larger than the Large. That difference matters:

• Two full briskets simultaneously
  
• Four racks of ribs
  
• Two whole chickens
  
• 22-inch pizza (competition pizza size)
  
• Eight burgers plus vegetables

For regular large gatherings or small catering operations, the XL eliminates multiple cook cycles.

Extended Cooking Sessions

Larger firebox capacity means:

• 16-20 hours smoking on one charcoal load
  
• Entire overnight brisket cooks without refueling
  
• All-day pulled pork cooks with charcoal to spare

Premium Accessory Options

The XL supports larger, more specialized accessories. Serious cooks appreciate the expanded capability for complex multi-level cooking setups.

Considerations

Weight and Setup

At 99kg, the XL requires two people for any movement, which is worth factoring into your placement decision. All XL purchases include free Sydney-wide delivery and installation. We handle the heavy lifting for you.

Charcoal Consumption

Larger firebox means more charcoal per cook, even for small meals. The XL is less efficient than the Large for cooking small portions.

Price Premium

Price Premium. $3,400 starting price is $900 more than the Large. Like all BGEs, the XL carries a lifetime warranty on the ceramics. That premium buys 43% more cooking area, but only makes sense if you will use it.

Who Should Buy the XL

Buy the XL if:

• You regularly cook for 8-10+ people
  
• You run a small catering operation or food business
  
• You want to cook multiple large items simultaneously (two briskets, four pork shoulders)
  
• You participate in BBQ competitions
  
• You never want to worry about running out of space

Skip the XL if:

• You primarily cook for 2-6 people (buy the Large instead)
  
• Price is a concern and you don't need the extra capacity
  
• You cook small meals frequently (the XL is less efficient for small cooks)

View the XL Big Green Egg →

2XL: The Professional Option

Specifications

Cooking area: 955 sq cm

Grid diameter: 74 cm (29 inches)

Feeds: 10+ people

Weight: 170kg

Starting price: $6,000

The Reality of the 2XL

The 2XL is a commercial-grade cooker. It's designed for restaurants, catering companies, and serious competition teams. For home use, it's almost always overkill.

Massive Capacity

The 2XL accommodates:

• Four full briskets
  
• Eight racks of ribs
  
• Four whole chickens
  
• Multiple pork shoulders
  
• 29-inch pizza (requires custom stones)

This capacity matters for businesses. For home cooks, even large gatherings rarely require this much cooking area.

All-Day Charcoal Loads

The 2XL firebox runs 24+ hours on one charcoal load at smoking temperatures. For extended competition cooks or catering events, this eliminates refueling concerns.

Installation Requirements

At 170kg, the 2XL requires professional installation. You're not moving this yourself. Ever.

The 2XL typically requires a custom-built cart or permanent installation. Factor these costs into total investment.

Honest Assessment for Home Cooks

Unless you're running a food business or serious competition team, the 2XL is unnecessary. The XL provides ample capacity for even large home gatherings.

The 2XL makes sense for:

• Restaurant operations
  
• Catering businesses
  
• BBQ competition teams
  
• Very large regular events (20+ people weekly)

The 2XL is overkill for:

• Regular family cooking (even large families)
  
• Occasional gatherings
  
• Backyard entertaining
  
• Most home cooking scenarios

Price Reality:

$6,000 starting price is double the XL cost. That money buys two XLs or one 2XL. For most situations, two XLs provide more versatility than one 2XL.

Shop the 2XL →

Size Comparison Summary

Price Per Square Centimeter

Larger BGEs offer better value per square centimeter of cooking area:

MiniMax: $5.88 per sq cm

Medium: $5.88 per sq cm

Large: $5.32 per sq cm ✅ Best value

XL: $5.07 per sq cm

2XL: $6.28 per sq cm

The Large and XL provide the best value. The 2XL's premium pricing reflects its commercial positioning.

How to Choose: Decision Framework

Start With These Questions

1. How many people do you typically cook for?

• 1-2 people: MiniMax
  
• 2-4 people: Medium or Large
  
• 4-6 people: Large
  
• 6-10 people: XL
  
• 10+ people: 2XL

2. Do you need portability?

• Yes: MiniMax (only portable option)
  
• No: All other sizes

3. What's your available space?

• Very limited (balcony, small courtyard): MiniMax or Medium
  
• Standard outdoor area: Large or XL
  
• Extensive outdoor area: Any size

4. What's your budget?

• Entry level ($1,500-2,000): MiniMax or Medium
  
• Standard ($2,500): Large
  
• Premium ($3,400+): XL or 2XL

5. What do you cook most?

• Small meals, pizzas: MiniMax or Medium
  
• Mixed cooking (everything): Large
  
• Large cuts, multiple items: XL
  
• Catering, events: 2XL

Common Scenarios

Young couple, apartment living:

Buy the MiniMax. Portability matters, space is limited, cooking for two.

Family of four, suburban house:

Buy the Large. Feeds the family, handles gatherings, most versatile.

Empty nesters who entertain:

Buy the Large or XL. Large works if gatherings are 8-10 people. XL if regularly hosting 12-15+.

Catering business or food truck:

Buy the XL or 2XL. Commercial capacity, all-day charcoal loads, professional durability.

Configuration Options: What Comes With Each Size

Every Big Green Egg size is available in multiple configurations. The base price includes different stand/table options:

Built-in: Egg only (for custom tables or outdoor kitchens)

Nest & Handler: Steel stand with handles (most common)

Table Options: Acacia wood tables, modular table systems

Configuration choice significantly affects total price. The Nest & Handler is the entry point. Tables add $500-$1,500+ depending on style.

For help choosing the right configuration for your space, call us on 0434 010 411 or visit our Wetherill Park showroom.

The Bottom Line: Which Size Should You Buy?

For 80% of buyers: Large Big Green Egg at $2,500 (Built-in Bundle)

The Large provides the best combination of capacity, versatility, and value. It handles everyday cooking for families and occasional large gatherings. Most people never regret buying the Large.

Buy Smaller (MiniMax) Only If:

• Portability is essential
  
• Space is extremely limited
  
• You consistently cook for 1-2 people only

Buy Larger (XL) Only If:

• You regularly cook for 8-10+ people
  
• You run a small food business
  
• You never want to feel limited by cooking space

Skip the Medium and 2XL Unless:

• Medium: Very specific space constraints rule out Large but MiniMax is too small
  
• 2XL: Running a commercial operation or serious competition team

See Big Green Eggs in Person

Seeing the size differences in person helps more than reading specifications. We keep all five sizes at our Wetherill Park showroom.