Review: Cobb Pro Travel BBQ – A Compact Powerhouse for Outdoor Cooking
The Cobb Pro travel BBQ is a compact and powerful addition to any outdoor cooking setup. Designed for those who enjoy grilling on the go, this portable BBQ offers a range of features that make it ideal for camping trips, beach outings, or even small backyard gatherings. Its sleek design and ease of use have made it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.
Our Verdict
The Cobb Pro didn’t disappoint when it came to performance. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a lightweight, portable BBQ that can handle a full meal for two to four people. The simple, modern design includes a steel dome lid and a black basket, making it both functional and aesthetically pleasing. What stands out most is its ability to stay cool to the touch, allowing it to be moved safely even when hot. This feature makes it particularly useful for campers who need to move their cooking equipment around.
Weighing just 4kg, the Cobb Pro is incredibly easy to carry and won’t add much bulk to your luggage. Its portability is matched by its ease of use—lighting the briquettes and getting started is straightforward. Despite its compact size, the Cobb Pro offers a variety of cooking methods, making it possible to prepare a full meal with all the sides in one go.
If you’re someone who loves traveling and wants a reliable, lightweight BBQ, the Cobb Pro is definitely worth considering.
How We Test
When testing home and garden appliances, I follow a structured approach to evaluate their performance. For BBQs, I look at factors such as setup time, cooking duration, the quality of the sear on meat, and how much food can be cooked at once. I also consider whether additional tools are needed and compare the overall value for money against similar models.
In testing the Cobb Pro, I prepared full BBQ meals for two people, including options like beef burgers and chicken drumsticks, along with side dishes like potatoes. This helped me assess its versatility and effectiveness in real-world conditions.
Size and Design
The Cobb Pro comes in just a few parts, making it easy to set up. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it could be assembled—just a matter of placing some briquettes in the bottom and closing the lid. It packs neatly into the provided bag, which has a handle for easy transport.
At 4.4kg, the Cobb Pro is extremely lightweight and easy to carry on the go. Made from stainless steel, it’s also easy to clean after use. The simple design and minimal parts make cleanup a breeze, especially after a long day of grilling.
One notable feature is that the base remains cool during cooking, allowing for safe movement if needed. This adds to its practicality, especially in outdoor settings where space may be limited.
Accessories and Versatility
Despite its small size, the Cobb Pro is surprisingly versatile. I used the Teflon-coated grill plate to cook beef burgers and chicken drumsticks, which produced a good sear, especially on the burgers. The small air holes allowed the briquettes underneath to impart a classic, smoky flavor.
The non-stick coating was a nice touch, something not commonly found on traditional BBQs. I also tried foil-wrapped cubed potatoes seasoned with paprika, herbs, and oil, which took just under 40 minutes to cook. They turned out crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, proving that the Cobb Pro can handle a variety of cooking styles.
From roasting and baking to frying and smoking, the Cobb Pro offers a wide range of cooking options, making it a true all-rounder.
Performance
The Cobb Pro performed well in terms of heat retention and cooking efficiency. Once lit, it reached the desired temperature quickly and maintained it for several hours, giving ample time to cook extra items. The enclosed design helped keep the heat consistent, which is essential for even cooking.
To fuel the Cobb Pro, you only need 8–10 briquettes, around 300g of charcoal, or a Cobb CobbleStone. This makes it easy to manage and maintain during use. While it can handle more food than I initially tested, it’s best suited for meals for two to four people.
One thing to note is that cooking times were slightly longer compared to other BBQs I’ve tested. This isn’t a major issue if you have time to spare, but it might not be ideal for quick grilling sessions.
How Does It Compare to Similar Products?
Priced at £165 at most retailers, or £160 for Go Outdoors members, the Cobb Pro is on the pricier side compared to some portable BBQs. However, its unique features justify the cost. For example, Argos’s Home Portable Charcoal BBQ is a budget-friendly option at £15, but it lacks the versatility and cooking experience offered by the Cobb Pro.
Another alternative is the Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ, which offers multiple cooking methods but is significantly more expensive at £299.99. It also doesn’t match the Cobb Pro’s level of portability.
How Does It Rate Online?
The Cobb Pro has received positive reviews online, with scores ranging from 4.7 to 4.8 out of 5. Many users praise its ease of use and portability, while others highlight how light it is to carry.
Why Trust Us?
At the Daily Mail, our team of expert testers has been researching, reviewing, and writing about products across various categories for years. Alesia, a travel reporter, has reviewed a wide range of products, including suitcases, hair dryers, and food appliances like the Cobb Pro BBQ.
FAQs
Can the Cobb Pro be used indoors?
No, the Cobb Pro should only be used outdoors in a BBQ-safe environment.
Is the Cobb Pro dishwasher-safe?
Yes, the steel bowl, dome, and non-stick grill are all safe to put in a dishwasher. However, many users find it easier to wash them by hand.
What’s the difference between the Cobb Pro and Cobb Premier Air?
The main difference is that the Cobb Premier Air (£189) has increased airflow for higher cooking temperatures and adjustable temperature control. It also offers additional cooking options like boiling and frying, making it more versatile than the Cobb Pro.
