Charcoal vs Gas Grill
Posted on July 17, 2024 By Mike M.
Whether your outdoor space consists of a small balcony or a massive backyard, grilling is a great activity for enjoying a beautiful day. Though hosting a barbeque can be tons of fun and is a great way to enjoy the summer, it can be tough to know exactly where to start when it comes to grilling equipment. At the center of this issue, we find the debate between a charcoal grill versus a propane grill. Read on to find out about all of the pros and cons of each grill and to get a better idea of which one is right for you.
What Are the Differences Between Charcoal and Propane Grills?
The key difference between gas grills and charcoal grills is their fuel source. Charcoal grills use hot charcoal in the unit to cook food, while a gas grill ignites propane to cook. Gas grills also have temperature knobs to help control their heat output, while charcoal grills often don't have them.
Which Tastes Better?
Many charcoal grill lovers argue that charcoal grilling delivers a smoky taste that you simply can't replicate with a propane grill. However, propane grills provide their user with more precise control over cooking. The various temperature knobs allow you to cook your meals more precisely to get to your preferred temperature. This means if you want a burger rare, you'll probably have an easier time getting there on a gas grill.
Is Charcoal Cheaper Than Gas?
When it comes to cost, the answer is not so simple. A propane grill tends to be more expensive than a charcoal grill, and a propane tank will cost more upfront than a bag of charcoal, but it'll also last you much longer. This does not always mean that propane is the most cost-efficient option - if you are not a big griller and only plan to use yours a few times a year, it would be more frugal to stick with charcoal as it is a smaller upfront cost. If you plan to grill often, you will end up saving money in the long run if you go with propane.
Which Grill Is Easier to Set Up?
When it comes to setting up, charcoal grills take the cake. Charcoal grills are far more simplistic than gas grills when it comes to functionality, and their setup process reflects this. Setting up a charcoal grill is as easy as putting its round housing unit on top of its support legs before covering it with a metal grate. Gas grills are typically much larger, and you have to be careful when connecting the grill hose to the propane valve. Either way, be sure to let your new grill heat up for 15-20 minutes to burn off any packing material or oils.
Which Grill Is Easier to Use?
Though charcoal grills are simplistic in nature, gas grills have more user-friendly controls that make the grilling experience easier overall. With charcoal grills all you really need to do is ignite the charcoal and throw on whatever you plan to cook when the coal gets hot. With gas grills, there is typically some kind of ignition built in to light it up with the push of a button or knob. Once it's lit, you can control the temperature of the flame. It should be noted that charcoal does burn extremely hot once it is lit for an extended period of time, so you have to be careful not to burn your food, or yourself, while using it. You can use grill tools with either to make cooking even easier. Cleaning up either of the grills is relatively easy, but you'll need to clean out ash when working with a charcoal grill, so gas grills are slightly easier to deal with. With the right cleaning tools, cleaning should be a breeze no matter what.
Which Grill is More Portable?
Though it's often left out of the charcoal grill vs. gas grill argument, portability is an important thing to consider for some. You'll find portable grills in charcoal as well as gas models, and even options for electric portable grills. A portable charcoal grill usually comes in the classic kettle shape, and is easy to take apart and transport without much of a hassle. A portable gas grill features a similarly compact build, and accommodates a small propane cylinder (usually sold separately) to give you the heat you need. An electric grill is a great choice for anyone looking to use a grill indoors, with most models able to plug into a standard 120V indoor or outdoor outlet.
Grilling is a great way to get outside and create a tasty meal with family, friends, or just yourself. No matter which grill you get, don't forget to practice grill safety. Now get out there and get cooking!