Gas vs. Electric Grill: How to Choose
Choose the best option for your cookouts.
Eager to host the perfect cookout, but unsure which grill is best for you? Whether you’re new to barbecuing or looking to upgrade your current cooking setup, keep reading for a comprehensive breakdown of the gas grill vs. electric grill.
Gas Grills vs. Electric Grills: Which Is Better?
Use the chart above to compare the two head-to-head, or keep reading for more detailed guidance on choosing the grill type that best meets your needs.
How to Choose Between a Gas Grill & an Electric Grill
1. Consider What You'll Be Cooking
What kinds of food do you plan to cook on your grill? This consideration will help you determine whether a gas or electric grill is the better fit for you.
- Gas Grills: Gas options are designed for high-heat searing that produces a smokey, fresh-off-the-grill flavor. This makes them the ideal choice for preparing burgers, steaks, or other cuts of meat.
- Electric Grills: Electric grills provide a gentler cook with a milder flavor due to minimal smoke. This makes them perfect for cooking vegetables, lean proteins like fish, and convenient everyday meals.
Tip!
Unsure How to Use a Gas Grill? Our comprehensive guide walks you through every step.
2. Choose the Right Type & Size for Your Space
Next, decide where you’ll place the grill – gas grills need to be used outdoors, while electric grills can be used indoors or outdoors. Then measure the area to determine whether a gas or an electric grill offers the right size for your space.
- Gas Grills: Gas grills require outdoor ventilation, so they’re the ideal grill choice for spacious backyard areas. Typically 48–60 inches wide, gas grills take up more space to accommodate propane or natural gas tanks, burners, and side tables.
- Electric Grills: Compatible both indoors and outside, electric grills are perfect for snug patios or year-round grilling in the comfort of your kitchen. They are typically 26–35 inches wide. Electric grills can also be 15–25 inches wide or less than 15 inches, making tabletop grilling possible within tighter spaces.
Tip!
Wanting to know more about What an Electric Grill Is? Browse our guide for everything you need to know.
3. Determine Your Budget
It’s important to decide how much you’d like to spend on your grill when choosing between gas and electric models.
- Gas Grills: Gas grills are typically more expensive than electric alternatives because they are larger and require additional components, like gas tanks and valves. While costlier than electric grills, they’re a worthwhile investment for those interested in outdoor grilling or hosting bustling barbecues.
- Electric Grills: Electric grills are more affordable due to their simple design. They require fewer maintenance costs, making electric grills the better choice for those keeping an eye on the price tag.
4. Consider Upkeep
How much time are you willing to dedicate to your grill’s maintenance?
- Gas Grills: Gas grills take longer to clean because of their many components, like burners, grates, and grease traps. However, the higher heat of gas grills effectively burns more residue from their surfaces, simplifying upkeep.
- Electric Grills: While cleaning electric grills may require additional hands-on scrubbing, the process is more time-efficient because electric grills include fewer parts.
Tip!
Wondering How to Clean a Gas Grill? Our guide breaks down the entire process.
5. Evaluate Additional Features
Finally, determine which grill features matter most to you.
- Gas Grills: If you prioritize extra burners, a warming rack, or plenty of storage and shelving, a gas grill is likely the better choice.
- Electric Grills: For non-stick surfaces, portability, and removable grill plates, an electric grill is your perfect fit.
Tip!
Ready to learn more about different grill features? Our Grill Features Guide outlines every option.
