Gas vs. Charcoal: What’s the Best Type of Grill?

Tips for figuring out the right grill for your needs

At least once every summer, you'll hear a familiar argument related to backyard barbecuing: gas vs. charcoal and which way of outdoor grilling is best. Proponents of either side can be as opinionated as loyal sports fans or die-hard movie buffs. Each position of the classic grill debate typically reduces their argument to either taste or convenience. While there are plenty of reasons to gravitate to either style, here are some of the key features to consider when shopping for a grill.

The case for gas grills

Gas grills offer some serious advantages over charcoal grills. Their benefits include:

Instant ignition and fast heating
Adjustable temperature control
Easy cleanup
Innovative features

When it comes to convenience, gas grills have an edge. Ignition happens with the touch of a button, and easy-to-adjust dials control the amount of heat. Many models include a side burner for extra cooking space to heat dishes in pots and pans. Gas-fueled grills don't corner the market on bells and whistles, but they have more high-tech features than charcoal grills. Some models allow preset cooking temperatures and times, while others let you know when to flip the meat or veggies. Wi-Fi connectivity on some gas barbecue grills designed with smart technology can even allow you to control the grill through an app on a smartphone.

Are gas grills right for you?

While gas grills provide a more even, consistent cooking temperature, only those with a searing option deliver a pro-grade char. A tank of propane can last quite a while, but it isn't always as readily available as a bag of briquettes from the corner store. These models are typically less maneuverable or portable. Another notable difference between the two options is the type of flavor produced. Gas grills don’t sear in as much of a smoky flavor in meats compared to their charcoal counterparts. However, some delicate foods, like fish and vegetables, may work better with gas than charcoal because their true flavors aren’t masked. If you still want to achieve that charcoal taste from time to time, there are alternative methods using grill accessories — like a smoker box — that will punch up the flavor on a gas grill.

The case for charcoal

Traditionalists have some solid arguments for going with charcoal grills. These grills offer:

Cost-effectiveness
Straightforward assembly
High heat for searing
Classic grill flavor

For traditional grill flavors, charcoal grills are the way to go. They also crank up the heat for a perfectly seared steak. While there are several high-end models on the market, a quality charcoal grill checks in at a very reasonable price point. That's a plus if you’re buying a grill for a second home or if you don't grill very often. When it comes to maintenance and portability, a standard charcoal grill assembles quickly and offers portability that most gas grills can't. Since most portable grills rely on charcoal instead of propane, they are the perfect cooking tool to take along for tailgates and picnics.

Are charcoal grills right for you?

Charcoal grills take more effort to ignite than gas grills and require time for the briquettes to reach the correct cooking temperature. You could save time with lighter fluid, but that might leave your food with an unwanted aftertaste. Also, those burning coals get good and hot, but they don't turn down the way gas can, which means less control and less consistency. Some new models deliver high-tech features, but they are few and far between. If flavor is king, then the task of cleaning up the spent ashes is probably worth it to get that mouthwatering, smoky finished product. However, apart from cleaning, charcoal grills typically require minimal maintenance.

Charcoal vs. gas grill: health considerations

Grilling is an ideal way to create flavor without excess sodium or other additives. The cooking process helps remove fat from food. While gas and charcoal grills both can help prepare healthy meals, eating charcoal's delicious char is something to do in moderation and is something for frequent grill users to take into consideration.

Getting the most out of your grill

If you want a different type of grilling, and taste select a pellet grill. This type of grill uses wood pellets as a heat source and fans to control temperature. Plus, many allow app-controlled cooking via a smartphone. While they might not reach the searing heat of a charcoal grill, pellet grills allow for slow smoking, which is music to some barbecue lovers' ears.

Although they’re not technically grills, smokers are worth considering. If you are more inclined to traditional favorites like ribs, pulled pork and brisket, these flavor factories might be the right fit. There are several models that feature enough automated controls to save you from a trip to a pit master boot camp.

It's worth mentioning that there are some fabulous electric grills on the market. These might not provide the open flame that entices the traditionalists, but they do have a lot in their favor. For example, an electric grill is ideal for patios, balconies and homes that have restrictions on open-fire cooking, like apartment complexes and condos.

Is a charcoal grill better than a gas grill?

When determining which is the better grill, it’s ultimately a draw. The clear winner is the grill that fits your lifestyle. Are you a steak fanatic? Charcoal is probably the way to go. Are you more inclined to prepare fish and vegetables? Then your best bet might be a gas grill. Beyond the types of food you prefer, consider the frequency of use and your desire for convenience. If you are struggling to decide, you can always have both with a hybrid or a well-appointed outdoor kitchen. Then you can decide between gas and charcoal on a nightly basis.

Don’t fret too much if you’re still undecided. There are things that each type of grill does equally well, such as burgers and hot dogs. No matter what kind of grill you bring home, it’s safe to say that it will greatly enhance your outdoor living space. In the end, the answer to the question of gas grill vs. charcoal grill ― which is better — comes down to a matter of choice and the factors that are most important to you, such as cost, available space, type of grilling method you favor and your budget. Enjoy exploring the plethora of possibilities with grills, smokers and accessories. You're sure to find the right match for your needs.