Gas vs Charcoal BBQ: Which Is Best to Buy in 2026?

Find the Perfect BBQ for Your Garden

Nothing beats gathering family and friends around the barbecue on a warm summer’s day. But when it comes to choosing a new BBQ, one question comes up time and time again:

Should you choose a Gas BBQ or a Charcoal BBQ?

The answer depends on how you like to cook, how often you barbecue, and the outdoor cooking experience you’re looking for.

This guide breaks down the key differences to help you choose the perfect BBQ for your garden.


Why Choose a Gas BBQ?

For busy households and regular entertainers, gas BBQs offer speed, convenience and effortless cooking.

Benefits of a Gas BBQ

✓ Ready to Cook in Minutes

No waiting around for coals to heat up. Simply turn the controls, ignite the burners, and you’ll be cooking in around 10 minutes.

✓ Precise Temperature Control

Cook different foods at different temperatures with ease. Adjustable burners give you complete control, whether you’re searing steaks or gently grilling vegetables.

✓ Easy Cleaning

With no charcoal ash to remove, cleaning up after a barbecue is quick and straightforward.

✓ Perfect for Frequent Use

Love barbecuing every weekend? Gas BBQs are designed for regular use, making outdoor cooking simple and stress-free.

A Gas BBQ Is Ideal If You:

  • Barbecue regularly throughout the year
  • Enjoy entertaining family and friends
  • Need quick, convenient outdoor cooking
  • Prefer easy temperature control
  • Cook for larger groups

Why Choose a Charcoal BBQ?

For many barbecue enthusiasts, nothing matches the authentic flavour and experience of cooking over real coals.

Benefits of a Charcoal BBQ

✓ Authentic Smoky Flavour

Charcoal naturally adds that unmistakable smoky taste that many BBQ lovers simply won’t compromise on.

✓ Exceptional Searing Performance

Charcoal BBQs can achieve very high temperatures, making them ideal for perfectly seared steaks and flame-grilled favourites.

✓ More Affordable to Get Started

Charcoal BBQs are often available at lower price points, making them a great option for occasional grillers.

✓ The Traditional BBQ Experience

From lighting the charcoal to managing the heat, many people enjoy the hands-on experience that comes with traditional barbecuing.

A Charcoal BBQ Is Ideal If You:

  • Love authentic smoky flavours
  • Enjoy traditional outdoor cooking
  • Barbecue occasionally
  • Prefer a hands-on cooking experience
  • Enjoy experimenting with fire and heat control

Gas vs Charcoal BBQ Comparison

FeatureGas BBQCharcoal BBQ
Ease of Use★★★★★★★★☆☆
Heat-Up Time5–10 minutes20–30 minutes
FlavourExcellentOutstanding smoky flavour
Temperature ControlPrecise and simpleRequires experience
CleaningQuick and easyMore time required
Best ForFrequent grillingTraditional BBQ enthusiasts

Which BBQ Should You Choose?

Choose a Gas BBQ if you want:

✔ Fast, convenient cooking
✔ Easy temperature control
✔ Regular family barbecues
✔ Hassle-free cleaning
✔ Reliable performance every time

Choose a Charcoal BBQ if you want:

✔ Rich, smoky BBQ flavour
✔ Traditional outdoor cooking
✔ High-heat searing performance
✔ A more hands-on grilling experience
✔ The classic barbecue atmosphere


The Bottom Line

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.

If convenience, speed and ease of use are your priorities, a Gas BBQ is likely the perfect choice.

If authentic flavour and the traditional barbecue experience matter most, a Charcoal BBQ remains hard to beat.

The best BBQ is simply the one that fits your lifestyle, cooking style and budget.


Find Your Perfect BBQ Today

Whether you’re looking for a premium gas barbecue, a classic charcoal grill, or expert advice on choosing the right model, we’re here to help.

Browse our BBQ range today or speak to our team for personalised recommendations.

Need advice? Contact us today and let us help you create the ultimate outdoor cooking space.