Charcoal vs. Propane.

Learn why charcoal grilling is the best choice for flavor, searing, and the ultimate grilling experience. Discover why charcoal is still the king of the grill.

Few debates in the grilling world get people as fired up as charcoal vs. propane. Propane lovers swear by the convenience, quick startup, and temperature control, but let’s be real—charcoal grills bring the flavor, the experience, and the undeniable "grill master" street cred.

So, before you try to tell us that propane is somehow superior, let’s break down exactly why charcoal will always be king.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.

Disclosure:This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links. At no cost to you. 

1. The Flavor Is Just Better

Let’s get this out of the way—charcoal makes food taste like it was meant to taste. That rich, smoky goodness? That’s real flavor. Propane just can’t replicate the deep, wood-fired taste that comes from charcoal, natural lump wood, or even a little mesquite tossed in for good measure.

You can load up your propane grill with all the fancy seasonings and marinades you want, but the truth is: if you want that backyard BBQ flavor, charcoal is the only way to go.

2. Higher Heat = Better Sear

If you want a real sear on that steak, charcoal gets hotter—plain and simple. Most propane grills max out at around 500-550°F, while charcoal can easily exceed 700°F.

That extra heat means:
✔️ A better crust on your steak
✔️ Juicier burgers that don’t dry out
✔️ Crispier skin on your chicken

Ever wonder why steakhouses use open-flame, wood-fired, or coal-burning grills? Because higher heat = better flavor and texture.

3. The Experience Matters

Charcoal grilling isn’t just about cooking—it’s an event. You’re not just flipping burgers; you’re tending the fire, adjusting the coals, and mastering the flames like a true grill boss.

With propane, you’re just turning a knob and waiting. It’s the microwave of grilling. Where’s the fun in that?

4. No Gas, No Problem

Ever run out of propane in the middle of grilling? It’s a soul-crushing experience. With charcoal, you just toss in more briquettes, and boom—problem solved.

No emergency store runs, no swapping out tanks, no wondering if there’s “just enough left” to get through the cook.

5. It’s Just More Satisfying

Ask anyone who has spent time around a charcoal grill, and they’ll tell you:
✅ The smell of burning charcoal is half the experience
✅ The fire, the smoke, the hands-on approach make it feel more primal
✅ There’s actual skill involved—charcoal grilling isn’t just "set it and forget it"

Propane might be quick and easy, but charcoal is an art. If you’re grilling, why not do it right?

Final Verdict

Look, if all you want is fast, convenient, and easy, then propane is fine. But if you’re here for flavor, experience, and real grilling—charcoal wins every time.

So, what’s it gonna be? Are you team charcoal or team propane? Let the debate begin! 🔥👇

Grill Recommendation: Weber Charcoal Grill

I’ve attached a link to a solid old-school charcoal grill that we grew up using. Watching my parents grill dogs and burgers on this gem was always the highlight of family gatherings. If you're ready to step up your grilling game, check out the Weber Charcoal Grill.

Disclosure:This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links. At no cost to you.