Choosing between a charcoal and gas BBQ can be tough! Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the right choice depends on what you're looking for. Do you love that classic smoky flavour or prefer a quick and easy grilling experience? In this post, we'll compare the pros and cons of both charcoal and gas grills to help you decide which one is perfect for your outdoor cooking!

What is a Charcoal BBQ?
Charcoal BBQs use charcoal as their primary fuel source to cook food, producing heat and smoke that give food a distinctive flavour. They're ideal for those who love traditional BBQ flavours and a hands-on grilling experience.
These grills are known for their smoky, authentic flavour and versatility – perfect for grilling, smoking, and rotisserie cooking. While they do require building and tending a fire, using a chimney starter gets coals ready in 15-20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love a Charcoal BBQ
Unbeatable Flavour
Cooking over charcoal adds a unique, smoky taste to your food that’s hard to replicate with gas.
Affordability
Charcoal BBQs tend to be more budget-friendly than gas grills, both in terms of upfront cost and maintenance.
Satisfying Process
There’s something deeply gratifying about building a fire, maintaining it, and cooking over it. It adds an element of artistry to your barbecue.
Things to Consider
Setup Time
Charcoal grills take a bit longer to heat up—around 20-30 minutes on average.
Cleaning Up
The ashes left behind after cooking require proper disposal, and charcoal grills can be a bit messier.
Temperature Management
Managing the heat on a charcoal grill can take some practice, but once mastered, it offers great control.
Upgrade your BBQ game with the CosmoGrill XL Smoker or XXL Smoker! Both offer generous cooking space, adjustable charcoal trays for precise temperature control, and that unbeatable smoky flavour charcoal grills are known for. Perfect for any gathering, these smokers provide the versatility and flavour you need to impress. Find the perfect charcoal smoker for your next cookout!
What is a Gas BBQ?
Gas grills are perfect for busy days when you just want to get dinner on the table quickly. They are all about convenience; they heat up fast under 10 minutes, are easy to use, and offer consistent temperature control. With gas, you won't have to deal with the mess of charcoal, so you can enjoy a more pleasant cooking experience overall!
Why You’ll Love a Gas BBQ
Quick and Easy
Gas grills heat up fast, and with just a turn of a knob, you can adjust the heat with precision.
Low Maintenance
No ash, no messy residue, and less to clean. It’s easier to keep your gas grill in top shape.
Consistent Results
Temperature control is effortless, making it easier to cook your food just the way you like it.
Things to Consider
Lacks Smoky Flavour
While gas grills are efficient, they don’t impart the smoky flavour that many BBQ enthusiasts crave. For some, cooking on a gas grill feels no different than using a stove.
Refilling Gas
Running out of gas mid-cook can be frustrating, and finding a refill during a cookout isn’t always easy.
Durability
Over time, gas BBQs may require part replacements, such as burners or gas lines, which could add to maintenance costs.
Experience hassle-free grilling with the CosmoGrill Yamara 6+2 or Wabaya 3 Burner Gas BBQ! These grills are perfect for quick heat-ups, precise cooking and easy maintenance, with features like high-performance burners and multi-zone cooking. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just the family, we have a gas BBQ to suit your needs. Check out our gas BBQ range today!
Choosing between charcoal and gas BBQs depends on your priorities. Charcoal delivers a classic BBQ flavour and experience, perfect if you enjoy the process of building and managing a fire. Gas heats up quickly, is user-friendly, and minimises cleanup, ideal for convenience. Both options offer a fantastic way to enjoy outdoor cooking and socialising.
Ready to find the perfect BBQ? Explore our range of charcoal and gas barbecues to elevate your grilling! Visit our store for expert advice, exclusive offers, and the best BBQs available. Happy grilling!
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