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Gas, Charcoal, or Pellet Grills: Which One Is Right for You?

Mon May 12 2025

    There’s just something about grilling that brings people together. Maybe it’s the sizzle when your steak hits the grates, or the smell of smoky burgers wafting through the backyard. If you’ve wondered whether a gas, charcoal, or pellet grill is right for you, you’re in the right place.

    We’re here to break it down so you can pick the best grill that fits your cooking style, your backyard vibes, and your weekend plans.

     

    alfresco-gas-grill

     

    Gas Grills: Fast, Convenient, and Always Ready

    If you love the idea of firing up the grill after work without a lot of hassle, gas grills are your best friend. Just turn the knob, hit the igniter, and you’re ready to roll.

    Why Choose Gas:

    • Quick and easy start-up: Perfect for weeknight dinners.

    • Engineered to deliver the intense, even heat.

    • Minimal cleanup: No ash, no fuss.

    Recommended Gas Grill:

    Alfresco 30" ALXE Built-in Grill (Model: ALXE30)

    • Stainless steel burners for even heat.

    • Side burner for simmering sauces.

    • Large grilling space for family gatherings.

    💡 Pro Tip: Gas grills offer speed and convenience but don’t give the same smoky flavor as charcoal or pellet grills. That said, if your grilling vibe is easy and fast, gas wins hands down.

     

    coyote-charcoal-grill

     

    Charcoal Grills: Bold, Smoky Flavor That Feels Like Summer

    You know that deep, rich grilled flavor? That’s charcoal doing its thing. Charcoal grills require a little more effort and patience, but for many grill masters, it’s worth it.

    Why Choose Charcoal:

    • Unbeatable smoky flavor: Perfect for steaks, burgers, and ribs.

    • High heat capability: Ideal for searing.

    • Budget-friendly options.

    Recommended Charcoal Grill:

    Coyote 36" Charcoal Built-in Grill (Model: C1CH36)

    • Complete 304 stainless steel construction

    • Adjustable fuel tray

    • Adjustable dampers for controlling air flow

    💡 Pro Tip: Charcoal grills take longer to heat up and cool down. They also require more hands-on effort, but many people enjoy the ritual of lighting the coals and tending to the fire.

     

    coyote-pellet-grill

     

    Pellet Grills: Set It, Forget It, and Enjoy the Smoke

    Pellet grills are the rising star in the grilling world, especially for folks who want that wood-fired taste without babysitting the grill all day. Pellet grills automatically feed wood pellets into a firepot, so all you have to do is set your temperature and let it do its thing.

    Why Choose Pellet:

    • Wood-smoked flavor with gas-like convenience.

    • Precise temperature control for smoking, roasting, and baking.

    • Set-it-and-forget-it ease.

    Recommended Pellet Grill:

    Coyote 36" Pellet Grill (Model: C1P36)

    • WiFIRE® technology lets you control the grill from your phone.

    • D2® Direct Drive for faster heating and more consistent temps.

    • Super Smoke Mode for extra smoky flavor.

    💡 Pro Tip: Pellet grills are fantastic for low and slow cooking. Think briskets, ribs, and even pizza. But they typically don’t reach the ultra-high temps that charcoal grills do, so searing steaks isn’t their strong suit.

     

    alfresco-grill

     

    Which Grill Is Right for You?

    Still not sure? Here’s the simple version:

    • Choose Gas if you want fast, easy grilling with minimal mess.

    • Choose Charcoal if a bold, smoky flavor is your top priority.

    • Choose Pellet if you want wood-fired taste with modern, tech-friendly convenience.

    At Jessup’s, we carry top brands like Coyote and Alfresco, so no matter what kind of griller you are (or aspire to be), we have the perfect fit for your backyard setup.

     

    What to Consider Before You Buy a Grill

    Once you’ve decided on gas, charcoal, or pellet, you may want to consider its features. Here are a few extra things to think about before you buy.

    • Size and Cooking Area: Cooking for just the family or hosting big weekend BBQs? Make sure you choose a grill with enough space. Larger models are great for entertaining, while compact gas grills can still easily handle weeknight dinners.

    • Built-in or Freestanding: Planning a full outdoor kitchen setup? Go for a built-in grill. If you need flexibility or want to move the grill around, freestanding models are a better bet.

    • Tech Features: Some grills come with smart tech, like app-controlled temperatures and timers. Those features are a game-changer if you like to multitask or want precise control.

    • Durability and Materials: Florida’s heat, humidity, and salty air are no joke. Look for grills with stainless steel construction and rust-resistant finishes to make sure your investment lasts.

    • Extra Burners and Accessories: Extras like side burners, rotisserie kits, and smoker boxes can make your grilling experience way more fun and versatile.

     

    Explore Outdoor Grills at Jessup’s

    Ready to level up your grill game? Swing by Jessup’s and let our team help you find the grill that fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re after weekday convenience, weekend flavor, or something in between, we’ve got you covered with a wide range of outdoor appliances, including gas, charcoal, and pellet grills from the most trusted names in grilling.

    Not sure which one suits your backyard best? Our appliance experts are here to help! Visit Jessup’s Appliances online or stop by one of our local appliance store locations in Florida to explore our selection of grills for sale.

     

    FAQ: Questions About Gas, Charcoal, or Pellet Grills

    1. Which is better: pellet or charcoal?
    Pellet grills offer easier use and steady temperatures, while charcoal grills deliver deeper, smokier flavors. It depends on your cooking style!

    2. What are the disadvantages of pellet grills?
    Pellet grills can be pricier and don’t reach the ultra-high temps of charcoal grills, which makes searing steaks a bit harder.

    3. Are pellet grills good for steaks?
    They can be, but for an ultra-seared crust, charcoal or gas might be better. Pellet grills shine with slow cooking and smoking.

    4. Are pellet grills hard to maintain?
    Not at all. They need regular cleaning of the firepot and hopper, but day-to-day use is simple.

    5. Can you use a pellet grill as a regular grill?
    Yes! While they’re great for smoking, pellet grills can also grill, roast, and bake.