Shopping for a new grill can be exciting, but when it comes down to the charcoal vs gas grill decision, it's easy to feel unsure. Both types offer solid benefits, but they work very differently and suit different kinds of grillers.
This guide breaks down how each grill type compares when it comes to ease of use, flavor, heat control, setup and cleanup, fuel cost, safety, and more. We'll also walk through the unique advantages of each one so you can decide what fits your cooking style best.
Whether you're aiming for bold, smoky flavor or fast, convenient grilling, we're here to help you make the right call, and we've included our top picks to get you started.
What this article covers:
- Charcoal Grill vs Gas Grill
- Benefits of a Charcoal Grill
- Benefits of a Gas Grill
- Charcoal or Gas Grill: Which Should You Choose?
Charcoal Grill vs Gas Grill
Before choosing the right grill, it helps to understand how charcoal and gas stack up in the areas that matter most. From setup and flavor to long-term costs, each type brings something different to the table:
1. Ease of Use
Learning how to start a gas grill is incredibly straightforward. Push the igniter, turn a knob, and you're preheating in minutes. Temperature control is intuitive and fast.
The process for how to start a charcoal grill, however, requires more time and involvement. You'll need to light the coals, wait for them to ash over, and manage airflow and coal placement. It's not complicated once you get the hang of it, but there's definitely a learning curve.
2. Flavor
Charcoal grills give food that bold, smoky flavor many people associate with backyard barbecue. The drippings hit the coals, produce smoke, and build a deeper taste profile.
Gas grills offer a cleaner cook. You'll taste more of the meat or vegetables themselves, which some people prefer, but that signature smoke flavor is noticeably absent unless you use a smoker box.
3. Heat & Temperature Control
Charcoal gets hotter than gas, which makes it great for searing. But controlling that heat takes practice. You adjust vents, shift coal placement, and sometimes add more fuel as you go.
Gas grills are more predictable. You just turn the dials to get steady, even heat. This makes them especially good for longer cooks and delicate items like fish or veggies.
4. Setup & Cleanup
Gas grills are quick to set up and easy to clean. You turn them on, cook, and then give the grates a quick scrub.
Charcoal grills take longer. You need to prep the coals, and afterward, there's ash to remove and parts to wipe down. It's not a huge deal, but it adds time and effort before and after each cook.
5. Cost & Fuel
Charcoal grills usually cost less up front, which makes them appealing for first-time buyers. However, the cost of charcoal can add up quickly, especially if you grill often.
Gas grills are more expensive initially, but propane is more efficient and lasts longer. If you're using a natural gas line, the savings add up even faster over time.
6. Environmental & Health
Gas is the cleaner-burning option. It creates fewer emissions and less smoke, which is better for both the environment and the air around your grill.
Charcoal gives off more particulate matter and can release harmful compounds when fat burns at high heat. It's still safe when used correctly, but gas has a clear edge if air quality is a concern.
7. Safety
Gas grills are easier to shut down and cool off quickly, making them safer for casual users. As long as propane tanks or natural gas lines are in good shape and properly connected, the risk is low.
Charcoal stays hot for hours and requires careful disposal. There's also a higher chance of flare-ups, so it demands more attention while cooking.
Benefits of a Charcoal Grill
Charcoal grills have long been a favorite for purists and flavor seekers. They take a little more effort, but the payoff is hard to beat.
Rich Smoky Flavor
The main reason many people reach for charcoal is taste. Once you've gotten the process for how to light a charcoal grill down, you'll be rewarded with that signature smoky flavor that you just don't get from gas. It's bold, deep, and layered.
Whether you're grilling ribs or just a burger, the flavor hits differently. If you're after that backyard barbecue feel, charcoal gets you there.
Higher Heat & Searing Power
When it comes to raw cooking power, charcoal brings the heat. It can hit temperatures well over 600°F, which is ideal for searing steaks or achieving those crispy, charred edges on vegetables.
That high, direct heat gives you control over crust and texture that's tough to match with gas. You can bank coals to build hotter and cooler zones and easily adjust them mid-cook. If you love a hard sear or crave caramelization, this is where charcoal shines.
Low Cost to Start
Charcoal grills are budget-friendly and widely available. You can get a quality setup for a fraction of what you'd pay for a decent gas grill. There are no tanks or hookups to worry about, so you're up and running fast. For beginners or anyone testing the grilling waters, this lower entry cost is a huge plus. You don't have to spend big to start making great food.
Benefits of a Gas Grill
Gas grills are built for convenience and consistency. If you want quick weeknight meals or predictable performance, they're a solid choice.
Convenience & Speed
Gas grills make it easy to go from zero to grilling in under ten minutes. You just turn a knob, hit the igniter, and you're heating up. There's no waiting for coals to catch or managing airflow. This is perfect if you're short on time or just want to grill without fuss. It's the go-to setup for people who want speed without sacrificing results.
Precision & Control
With a gas grill, you get reliable control over heat at the turn of a dial. Most models have multiple burners, so you can create different cooking zones across the grill. That makes it simple to cook thick steaks on one side while gently grilling vegetables on the other.
Cleaner & Easier Maintenance
Gas grills are easy to keep clean and ready to use. After cooking, you just brush off the grates and maybe check the grease tray. There's no ash buildup or mess from spent coals.
This keeps your workspace cleaner and your grill in better shape over time. If you like to grill often without the cleanup headache, gas is the way to go.
Charcoal or Gas Grill: Which Should You Choose?
If you cherish deep flavor, enjoy the ritual of managing the fire, and are okay with a bit more time on setup and cleanup, charcoal is your choice. But if you want fast, reliable, everyday grilling with minimal effort, gas wins.
Here's a simple comparison table to help weigh your priorities:
|
Factor |
Charcoal Grill |
Gas Grill |
|
Ease of Use |
More effort, learning curve |
Instant ignition, easy adjustment |
|
Flavor |
Smoky, rich |
Clean, food's natural flavor |
|
Heat & Control |
Higher top temps, manual control |
Precise, even heat via burners |
|
Setup & Cleanup |
Ash removal, coals, vents |
Quick start, minimal cleanup |
|
Cost |
Lower initial, higher ongoing fuel |
Higher initial, cheaper over time |
|
Environmental Impact |
More smoke, emissions |
Cleaner-burning propane or gas |
|
Safety |
Requires care with coals and sparks |
Easier shutdown, fewer hot residues |
Charcoal Grill Recommendation
At DDR BBQ Supply, our top pick is the Napoleon PRO22 Charcoal Kettle Grill with Cart. We recommend it because it delivers outstanding temperature control, robust heat, and classic smoky flavor.
The included cart makes mobility and storage easy. It's rugged, dependable, and ideal for both new grillers and seasoned charcoal fans.
Gas Grill Recommendation
For gas lovers, the Prestige 500 Connected RSIB with Infrared Side and Rear Burner is uncompromising in quality. It's packed with features: even burners, an infrared sear station, a rear burner for rotisserie, and built‑in smart connectivity.
Clean burn, precise control, great grilling surface: it's what you'd want if convenience, power, and flexibility are top priorities.
Conclusion
Choosing between a charcoal and a gas grill really comes down to how you like to cook. Charcoal delivers bold flavor, high heat, and a hands-on grilling experience, while gas offers speed, consistency, and easier maintenance.
Both have their strengths, and the right choice depends on your cooking style, time, and budget. Whether you're after smoky ribs or quick grilled veggies, there's a perfect grill out there for you.
Ready to find yours? Browse our top-quality grill selection at DDR BBQ Supply and get set for your best cookout yet.
Visit Us at our Retail Store or Online BBQ Store
Our online BBQ store is open 24-7 but if you'd rather shop in person, visit our retail store in Northwest Arkansas. You can shop top-quality grills, smokers, the best BBQ rubs and sauces, accessories, and expert advice. Stock up on top-quality BBQ supplies to bring authentic smokehouse flavor to your backyard cookouts.
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Whether you're looking for something specific or just want to explore the best in BBQ gear, we’re here to help you cook with confidence. You’ll find top-quality grills, offset smokers, water cookers, gravity fed smokers. BBQ rubs, sauces, accessories, and expert advice you won't find online. Stop by and experience hands-on shopping the way it should be!
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