What Size Braai Do I Need? A Buyer's Guide

Choosing the right braai is mostly about choosing the right size. Too small and you will be cooking in shifts at your next get-together; too big and you will burn through more fuel than you need for a midweek braai for two. This guide explains how braai sizes work and how to pick the one that fits your household, your space and the way you like to entertain.

How braai size is measured

Home Fires braais are described by a number — 700, 800, 1000, 1200, 1500 — which refers to the width of the grilling area in millimetres. A 1000 braai has a one-metre-wide grill; a 1200 gives you 20 cm more cooking space again. The bigger the number, the more food you can cook at once (and the larger the unit overall), so it is the first spec to get right.

How many people does each size feed?

As a rough guide for a typical braai with a mix of meat and veg:

• 700–800mm — ideal for couples and small families, or smaller patios and balconies. Comfortably handles 2–6 people.
• 1000mm — the all-rounder. Great for families who entertain regularly; 6–10 people.
• 1200mm — our most popular size for keen hosts. Plenty of room for 10–15, with space to keep cooked food warm to one side.
• 1500mm — for serious entertainers and large gatherings; 15+ people.

If you are regularly somewhere between two sizes, size up — the extra grill space is far more useful than it is in the way, and you can always cook on part of the grill for smaller meals.

Match the size to your space

Before you fall for the biggest model, measure your space. Freestanding braais need floor space and clearance for the flue, while built-in braais are designed to sit into a wall, boma or purpose-built surround. If you are installing under a roof or pergola, the flue and ventilation matter just as much as the footprint — our Products Explained guide walks through installation, flues and avoiding a smoky braai.

Built-in or freestanding?

Size often goes hand in hand with the type of braai you choose. Freestanding units give you flexibility and need no building work; built-ins create a permanent feature. We cover the trade-offs in detail in Built-In vs Free-Standing Braais.

Looking for the best value?

If you want Home Fires quality at a keener price, the Economaster range offers the same trusted build in a more affordable line — a great entry point without sizing down on capability.

Still not sure?

Sizing a braai is much easier with a quick chat. Browse the full range or get in touch and we will help you match the right size to your space and the way you braai.