What are the differences between a charcoal grill and a gas grill? Which one is better? Read our charcoal grill vs. gas grill head-to-head showdown to know the capabilities and what to expect of each grill.
Are you looking to start grilling up meat for the entire family? Maybe you’re looking for a different way to cook some of your favorite entrees from time to time.
If so, then you’ll want to add a grill to your repertoire, that much is for sure! However, you still have one very important decision to make: charcoal or gas?
The two different types deliver two very different results to your food. They also have different pros and cons that come along with them.
Here is an in-depth guide that compares charcoal vs gas grill. Be sure to use it to find the right fit for your needs and preferences.
Benefits of a Charcoal Grill
Growing up, you were probably exposed more to the effects of a charcoal grill over a propane grill. Charcoal grills have stood the test of time, delivering flavorful meats for decades.
Be sure to read below for several benefits of a charcoal grill. If these are the advantages you’re looking for, then find a grill that feeds on charcoal for your backyard setup!
1. Smoky Flavor
Simply put: the smoky meat flavor is something to die for. Many grill enthusiasts refuse to eat meat without it.
If you’re after the delectable smoky flavor over all else, then you’ll want to invest in a charcoal grill. The higher heat of the charcoal produces more juice to drip from the meat as it’s cooked.
But when that juice falls on top of the piping-hot charcoal, it produces smoke that gets sent right back up into the meat you’ve placed on the grill.
2. Budget-Friendly
Some of you out there are only beginning on your path to becoming a BBQ enthusiast and if so, are looking for the cheapest way to buy-in. If that’s the case, then you might prefer to go the charcoal grill route first.
Charcoal grills come in all different shapes, sizes, and price points. That allows you to find a grill that meets your budget.
At the heart and soul of it, charcoal grilling merely requires a small grill and charcoal to be loaded inside of it. You can get a $25 charcoal grill to start and perfect your craft.
3. Higher Temperature
One of the biggest features of a gas grill is its ability to moderate the temperature that your meat is cooked at. That’s great, but some of you out there want a grill that can reach a higher temperature than 400° to 500° Fahrenheit.
You know… you want something that can peak at 600° or even 700° to give the meat that smoky flavor you’re searching for!
If that’s the case, then a charcoal grill is your answer. The grill will trap those insanely-hot charcoals in to cook your food at the highest temperature possible.
Benefits of a Gas Grill
Now then, it’s time to turn the page in order to learn about the benefits that a gas grill can bring you and your family. They offer a wide range of advantages to help with your cooking experience.
See below for more information on the perks of a gas grill. Use these to decide whether a propane grill is the best fit for your preferred grilling style.
1. Easier Clean Up
To keep your grill in prime grilling shape for the long haul, you’ll want to clean it up after every use (regardless of whether it’s gas or charcoal).
A gas grill is far easier to clean up, only requiring you to scrape away at the metal grate after you’ve cooked your food. It takes less time to perform and is easier to upkeep.
It’s perfect for those of you that have young children running around. The gas grill allows you to cook your food, turn it off, and clean it up quickly. Rather than brushing at the ash in a charcoal grill, you simply dump the ashtray in your gas grill.
2. Easy to Use
When it comes to using a charcoal grill, you might find that each experience can be a bit inconsistent. Sometimes the meat cooks differently depending on how well the fire has taken, how much charcoal is inside, etc.
With a gas grill, you can experience the luxury of a consistent grill experience every single time. It’s as easy as turning on the burners the same way, evenly laying down the meat, and the cooking experience won’t be thwarted by high winds.
Not only that, but you can find a rhythm for the different meat you grill. For example, grilling steaks will require the same timing, temperature, and turning every single time!
3. Accessories
Unless you purchase the most base-level gas grill possible, buying a gas grill means giving yourself more accessories to grill with.
You’ll find gas grills that have side burners, which are perfect for making things like a secret home-made BBQ sauce while you grill. It might also contain a smoke box that can give you a similar smoky flavor to a charcoal grill without the hassle.
If you want access to different amenities, then a gas grill is the way to go. If you’re only looking to grill and nothing more, then either a gas or charcoal grill will serve you well.
Charcoal vs Gas Grill: Which One Will You Choose?
Even though you’ve seen an in-depth guide on charcoal vs gas grill, the decision is ultimately yours to make!
Be sure to read this page on the best gas grills to keep your eyes on if you’ve decided that a gas grill is your preferred choice.
For more inquiries, please feel free to reach out via our contact us page and we’ll be happy to assist you further!
