Gas Or Charcoal BBQ? Compare Costs, Cooking & More
It’s one of the most sizzling debates in the barbecue world—gas or charcoal BBQ? Charcoal BBQs, in particular, have seen a surge in popularity in recent times based on a quick Google Trends search. But does that mean they’re better? As a serious BBQ-loving homeowner, this question requires some serious thought. But don’t sweat it—we’ve got you and all of your future al fresco meals covered!
Strap on your apron and grab your tongs as we deep-dive into the battle of the BBQs. Read on as we break down the basics of gas and charcoal grills, examine some of their similarities and differences, weigh up the pros and cons, and more. By the end of the guide, you’ll be perfectly equipped to make the right decision for all your delicious grilling needs.
Definitions
What is a gas BBQ?
Napoleon Prestige Pro 500 RSIB Gas Barbecue £3,159.99
A gas BBQ is a grill that cooks food using either propane or natural gas. These grills are well-known for being convenient and easy to use, heating up quickly (usually within 10-15 minutes) and offering precise temperature control.
What is a charcoal BBQ?
Napoleon NK22 Charcoal Kettle Grill £229.99
As the name implies, a charcoal BBQ is a traditional outdoor grill that uses charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal as its main heating source to cook food. It’s also famous for providing food with that distinct, smoky BBQ flavour that we all know, love and try so hard to replicate.
Charcoal BBQs come in various shapes and sizes and are a big hit with seasoned BBQ enthusiasts who consider them the more authentic form of grilling and prefer the traditional taste of cooking over an open flame.
Gas or charcoal BBQ features, similarities and differences
Cooking experience
Napoleon Prestige Pro 825 RSIB Gas Barbecue £5,999.99
Gas BBQ
Gas barbecues feature precise temperature control, with adjustable burners similar to a kitchen gas hob, making it easier to maintain consistent heat. For this reason, they are easy for beginners with little to no grilling experience to use. Gas grills also heat up quickly, making them the perfect option for those in a rush or prioritising convenience and speed when cooking.
Look for models with multiple burners for more versatility, and consider add-on features and accessories like side burners or rotisserie attachments to take your cooking to the next level.
Charcoal BBQ
Napoleon Charcoal Professional Barbecue £1,529.99
Charcoal BBQs are great for giving you that authentic smoky flavour that so many BBQ lovers crave. However, they need more time to heat up, and cooking on a charcoal BBQ also requires a bit more skill when it comes to managing the temperature and airflow if you want to ensure that your food is cooked evenly.
If you’re someone who appreciates the art of grilling and the distinct flavour of charcoal-cooked food, a charcoal BBQ could be the ideal choice for you. Choose a grill with adjustable air vents to control the heat and airflow, and consider adding dried wood chips on top of your charcoal for an extra smoky kick.
Design aesthetic
Napoleon Prestige 500 RSIB Gas Barbecue £2,289.99
Gas BBQ
Often larger than charcoal BBQs, gas grills can be a great focal point for your outdoor kitchen setup. With their sleek, modern design and stainless steel finishes, they make a functional cooking tool while adding a touch of style to your outdoor space. Choose a gas BBQ that complements the aesthetic of your kitchen garden and consider additional features like side shelves for extra convenience when prepping your veggies and tasty halloumi burgers.
Charcoal BBQ
Napoleon NK18 Charcoal Kettle Grill £199.99
While charcoal grills are known for their more traditional look, that’s not always the case. You can now find sleek ceramic models like the modern and elegant Big Green Egg. Portable models are perfect for small spaces or taking with you on the go, while large kettle or barrel-style grills are ideal for those larger summer garden get-togethers.
Cost
Napoleon Pro Charcoal Kettle Grill £329.99
Gas grills tend to be more expensive than charcoal BBQs, requiring a larger initial investment. At Harbour Lifestyle, our grills start at £299.99. However, it’s worth considering how often you’ll use your grill. Set a reasonable budget before shopping around to find the best deal, and don’t forget to consider fuel costs. While charcoal is widely available and generally wallet-friendly, charcoal prices can quickly add up if you use your grill a lot. In comparison, propane and natural gas costs are relatively low.
You should also look for sales or bundles that include extra accessories to maximise your investment and look for a high-quality BBQ. While it’ll be more expensive upfront, it’ll last longer, making it cheaper in the long run with every delicious burger.
Maintenance
Napoleon Rogue XT 365 SIB Gas Barbecue £849.99
Gas BBQs are relatively straightforward and easy to maintain compared to charcoal grills, which are messier and require emptying and disposing of ash after every use. For most gas models, a quick scrub to remove food and grease residue from the burners and grates is all that's needed. However, it's crucial to check your gas line and connection frequently for safety reasons.
Choose a gas or charcoal BBQ with easy-to-clean features like removable trays and grill grates to make the cleaning process easier. After cleaning your charcoal cooking grids, a light coat of oil will also help prevent them from rusting.
Environmental impact
Napoleon NK22 Charcoal Kettle Grill £229.99
Neither charcoal nor gas grills are 100% clean. However, gas grills undoubtedly produce fewer emissions compared to charcoal BBQs which produce higher levels of smoke and carbon emissions.
Gas BBQ or charcoal BBQ: pros and cons
Napoleon Prestige Pro 500 RSIB Gas Barbecue £3,159.99
Gas BBQ pros and cons
Pros:
- Faster heating time: Gas BBQs are quick to heat up and are ready for you to start grilling within 10-15 minutes—perfect for cooking in a hurry or feeding impatient, hungry mouths.
- Precise temperature control: With adjustable burners, you can easily control cooking temperatures for delicious and evenly cooked burgers, sausages and veggies.
- Easy to ignite and clean: Gas barbecues typically have push-button ignition systems, which make them quick and easy to start. They’re also easier to clean with less residue.
- Reduced emissions: Gas grills produce fewer emissions than charcoal grills, making them more environmentally friendly.
- Convenience: If you’re a beginner or simply looking for a simple and easy-to-use BBQ, a gas option might be the better choice for you, requiring less skills and effort to maintain.
Cons:
- Limited smoky flavour: While convenient, gas BBQs can’t compare when it comes to taste and can’t provide the same authentic, smoky flavour as a charcoal BBQ.
- Higher initial cost: The upfront, initial investment for a gas BBQ is usually higher than a charcoal BBQ.
- Gas supply dependency: Gas BBQs need a steady supply of propane or natural gas, which can be inconvenient if you run out while cooking. It also makes them less portable and there may be safety concerns around a faulty connection or gas leak.
Charcoal BBQ pros and cons
Napoleon NK22 Charcoal Kettle Grill £229.99
Pros:
- Rich, smoky flavour: A charcoal BBQ will give your food a rich, smoky flavour that only comes from cooking over an open flame.
- Versatile cooking methods: Charcoal grills provide more versatile cooking methods, like smoking and searing, as well as direct and indirect grilling.
- Lower initial cost: Charcoal BBQs are more affordable upfront than gas BBQs, both in terms of initial cost and fuel (provided you don't use your grill constantly).
- High heat capabilities: These grills can often reach higher temperatures, making them ideal for searing delicious steaks and other tasty meats.
- Portable and interactive: Charcoal grills offer a more traditional and engaging grilling experience. They’re also more portable, making them great for camping or simply moving around your garden.
Cons:
- Longer preheating time: Charcoal grills take longer to heat and can take anywhere from 20-45 minutes to reach ideal cooking temperatures.
- Less temperature control: Managing temperatures on a charcoal grill can be difficult and requires more skill and experience.
- More challenging to clean: Charcoal grills generate more ash and smoke, resulting in a longer and more labour-intensive cleaning process after every use.
- Less environmentally friendly: Charcoal BBQs produce more smoke and carbon emissions, making them less environmentally friendly.
Gas or charcoal BBQ: decision-making tips
Napoleon Rogue XT 425 SIB Gas Barbecue £989.99
Before you choose between a charcoal or gas BBQ, there are several factors to keep in mind. Here are some essential tips to help you make the best choice for your outdoor space, cooking preferences and budget:
Budget
Napoleon Pro Charcoal Kettle Grill with Cart £449.99
Whatever your intentions, your budget will often determine what BBQ you choose. That’s why it’s always a good idea to do the maths first and work out just how much you’re willing to invest. Gas BBQs typically cost more upfront than charcoal grills, but you should also consider ongoing costs. Gas is usually cheaper in the long run, while regular charcoal purchases can quickly add up.
Available space and garden layout
Napoleon Freestyle 365 Gas Barbecue £469.99
Ensure you have enough room in your garden, outdoor kitchen or patio, and measure your available outdoor space. Gas grills are usually larger, making them better suited for larger spaces and back gardens than their charcoal counterparts. Charcoal grills are also more suitable for smaller gardens and patios because they’re more portable and easier to move around. For more inspiration, check out our BBQ area ideas.
Cooking needs
Napoleon Freestyle 425 Gas Barbecue £579.99
Think about the types of foods you enjoy grilling and how often you plan to host. If you’re planning on frequent barbecues throughout the spring and summer and quick, hassle-free cooking is at the top of your priorities, a gas BBQ might be a better investment.
For those who enjoy experimenting with different grilling techniques like smoking or slow-cooking, a charcoal BBQ will offer the versatility you enjoy.
Convenience vs flavour trade-off
Napoleon Pro Charcoal Kettle Grill £329.99
Before you decide between a gas or charcoal BBQ, you’ll need to figure out what’s more important to you—convenience or flavour. Gas grills offer the convenience of quick and easy ignition and precise temperature control. They’re also easier and faster to clean.
However, charcoal grills provide unmatched flavour, even though they require more effort when it comes to preparation, cooking and maintenance.
Lifestyle
Napoleon Freestyle 365 SIB Gas Barbecue £649.99
Consider exactly how much time and effort you’re willing to invest. Gas grills are more user-friendly and produce fewer emissions than charcoal, which are messier and harder to clean.
Lastly, think about your future grilling needs. Do you plan on hosting large gatherings or do you want a grill for delicious dinners for just you and your partner? These questions should hopefully reveal which BBQ will suit your lifestyle best.
Which BBQ is better: gas or charcoal?
What’s the best BBQ: gas or charcoal? It’s the hottest debate in the outdoor cooking world. Choosing between a gas or charcoal BBQ doesn’t have to be as difficult or confusing as it seems. If convenience, quick heating, easier grilling and precise temperature control are at the top of your list, a gas BBQ is the best option. Prefer the rich, smoky flavour of a traditional BBQ and enjoy the hands-on process of grilling? Then a charcoal BBQ is your best bet. It’s perfect for culinary enthusiasts who relish the art of barbequing and are willing to invest slightly more time and effort in creating mouth-watering grilled dishes that are bursting with flavour.
Whatever you choose, Harbour Lifestyle offers a wide range of stylish, high-quality grills and outdoor cooking and dining accessories to knock your BBQs out of the park. (Or should we say garden?) Explore our premium range of models that suit every outdoor space and find the perfect BBQ to take your al fresco cooking and meal experience to the next level. For those feeling a bit more adventurous and looking for different outdoor kitchen ideas, also take a look at our range of masonry BBQs, Kamado grills, and pizza ovens.
Happy grilling!
FAQs
Are charcoal BBQs better than gas?
The best BBQ depends on what you value in a grilling experience. Charcoal grills are known for giving food that rich, smoky and authentic BBQ flavour many crave from their barbecues. They also provide more versatility when it comes to cooking methods. Gas grills offer more convenience, precise temperature control and quicker cooking times and are also easier to clean.
Is it healthier to cook with gas or charcoal?
Gas BBQs emit less smoke and produce fewer carcinogens that can form when fat drops onto hot charcoal. However, charcoal in itself is not a carcinogen and cooking methods and food choices will also impact overall health.
Is a charcoal or gas barbecue cheaper to run?
Whether a charcoal or gas barbecue is cheaper to run is up for debate. Charcoal is widely available and relatively affordable. However, this all depends on how much you use your BBQ, and frequent grilling can result in high charcoal costs that add up over time. Gas barbeques are typically cheaper to run in the long term, as propane or natural gas is more cost-effective than constantly purchasing charcoal.
Why is a gas barbecue better?
A gas barbeque is considered the better option for anyone who prioritises convenience and speed. It heats up quickly, is easy to clean, produces fewer emissions and offers precise temperature control for easier cooking.
