Charcoal BBQ vs Gas BBQ: Which is Right for You?
Written by Btissame Allilou
Last updated: Tuesday, 8 April
Choosing between a charcoal or gas barbecue isn’t always easy—both offer unique advantages depending on your preferences. Whether you're drawn to the traditional smoky flavor or value quick start-up and convenience, understanding the differences c
an help you make the right decision. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each type to help you find the grill that best suits your cooking style.
What is a Charcoal BBQ?
Charcoal BBQs use charcoal as their primary fuel source to cook food, producing heat and smoke that give food a distinctive flavour. They're ideal for those who love traditional BBQ flavours and a hands-on grilling experience.
These grills are known for their smoky, authentic flavour and versatility – perfect for grilling, smoking, and rotisserie cooking. While they do require building and tending a fire, using a chimney starter gets coals ready in 15-20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love a Charcoal BBQ
Unbeatable Flavour
Cooking over charcoal adds a unique, smoky taste to your food that’s hard to replicate with gas.
Affordability
Charcoal BBQs tend to be more budget-friendly than gas grills, both in terms of upfront cost and maintenance.
Satisfying Process
There’s something deeply gratifying about building a fire, maintaining it, and cooking over it. It adds an element of artistry to your barbecue.
Things to Consider
Setup Time
Charcoal grills typically require more time to get started—expect around 20 to 30 minutes for the coals to heat up properly.
Cleanup
After cooking, leftover ash and residue need to be disposed of, which makes cleanup a bit more involved compared to other grill types.
Temperature Control
Adjusting heat on a charcoal grill may take some trial and error. Once familiar with the process, users can achieve a high level of control over cooking temperatures.
What Is a Gas BBQ?
A gas barbecue is a convenient option for those looking to cook with minimal setup. These grills typically heat up in under 10 minutes and offer consistent temperature control throughout the cooking process. Gas grills are straightforward to operate and don’t require handling charcoal or ash, making them a practical choice for everyday meals.
Why You’ll Love a Gas BBQ
Quick and Easy
Gas grills heat up fast, and with just a turn of a knob, you can adjust the heat with precision.
Low Maintenance
No ash, no messy residue, and less to clean. It’s easier to keep your gas grill in top shape.
Consistent Results
Temperature control is effortless, making it easier to cook your food just the way you like it.
Things to Consider
Less Smoky Flavor
Gas grills are efficient, but they don’t naturally produce the rich, smoky flavor associated with traditional charcoal grilling. For some users, the cooking experience may feel more like indoor stovetop grilling.
Gas Refills
Running low on fuel during cooking can be inconvenient, especially if there’s no spare tank available. It’s a good idea to keep a backup on hand.
Long-Term Maintenance
Gas barbecues may require occasional maintenance over time. Components such as burners, ignition systems, or gas hoses might need to be cleaned or replaced to keep everything working safely and efficiently.
