Gas Grills vs Charcoal Grills – which camp do you side with? There is a great debate about which one is better. There is no compromising on the issue you are either solidly in one camp or the other. Some people swear by gas grills, which are fueled by liquid propane whereas others swear by charcoal grills. What is all the fuss about? Is there really that much of a difference between the two?

Charcoal:
Pros –
Charcoal allows for a nice smoky flavor, which many prefer. The smokiness is more of what people are accustomed to when thinking about barbecue. Many people can tell the difference from this one aspect alone. Charcoal when heated to where the coals are nice and white hot creates the perfect climate for creating a nice sear on your meat. Another pro to charcoal is that most of the time the grills are usually cheaper than gas grills. In addition, charcoal is cheaper than propane tanks. Charcoal is also much more portable.

Cons –
Charcoal is extremely hard to monitor and adjust temperature wise. You have to trust the amount of charcoal you put into the grill vs how much food you are cooking. It is important to be mindful of this as well, as how many times you open the grill and let the heat escape. Another downside to charcoal is the length of time it takes for the coals to heat up. You have to pour them into the grill, soak them in lighter fluid, and wait for them to burn white hot. It can take at least an hour in some cases to reach the right stage to actually begin cooking on the coals.

Gas:
Pros – You can begin quickly with just a turn of the knob and a flick of the switch. It takes much less time to start cooking with a gas grill than it does a charcoal. Another pro to cooking with gas is that it is much easier to control the temperature. You can convert gas grills to natural gas instead of propane – if you an outlet on your back patio you can hook your grill up directly to the gas you are already paying for. You do not need to purchase any extra propane tanks at that point.

Cons –
Gas is not as portable as charcoal – if you want to go to a park you are more than likely going to have to deal with charcoal. Gas does not affect the same flavor on foods that charcoal grilling does. Sometimes the gas can leave the food with a distinct taste that does not suit most people. Propane tanks can be expensive and a hassle to lug around and refill. Gas is explosive and can be dangerous to work with – it is always important to know what you are working with and what it can do. It really is a matter of choice as to which one you choose.
There are pros and cons to each side. Weigh your options carefully and decide which one is best for you.