Should You Choose a Propane or Natural Gas Grill?
We’re not just blowing hot air, there’s a difference!
Highlights
Propane grills burn propane that comes in 20 lb cylinders and are a great option if you grill in different locations.
Natural gas grills plug into your existing natural gas line, which means you’ll never run out of fuel.
Natural gas and propane grills provide the same grilling performance and burn cleaner than charcoal.
You’ll pay more for a natural gas grill if you have to run a new gas line, about $550.
If the first sign of winter thaw has you daydreaming of barbecues and warm UV rays, then we’re on the same page. But if you want to become the pitmaster of your neighborhood, you’ll need to update your grill. Keep reading for a breakdown of the differences between propane grills and natural gas grills, so you can finally have a grill that matches your fancy “kiss the cook” apron.
What’s the Difference Between Propane and Natural Gas Grills?
When it comes to grilling, everyone has an opinion on the best grill to use. But if you’re on the fence, know that there is not much difference between how the two different gasses perform—both will cook your steak to perfection or roast the perfect ear of corn. The main difference is convenience.
Propane grills burn propane gas, sold in cylinders that are easily attached to your grill. Turn on the propane, light your burners, and you’re ready to go.
Natural gas grills function on the same principles, but instead of attaching a propane cylinder to your grill, your grill is plugged directly into the gas line that powers your home appliances like your furnace, hot water heater, or oven.
Propane Grill Pros and Cons
Propane grills certainly get the job done, and for many people, they’re the grill of choice. But for all their advantages, there are a few drawbacks you should know about.
Propane Grill Pros
Can relocate and move as needed
Ignites using an electric starter instead of charcoal
Easy clean-up
Propane Grill Cons
Canister needs refilling more often
Can get expensive to maintain
Natural Gas Grill Pros and Cons
Natural Gas Grill Pros
No tanks to exchange because it’s hooked up to a natural gas line
Easy cleanup
Easier to start than charcoal
More affordable (if you already have a gas line)
Natural Gas Grill Cons
Stationary, not portable
More complicated to install
Propane Grill vs. Natural Gas Grill: Which Is Better?
Natural gas and propane grills provide the same tasty results when used for grilling. The difference in performance between the two is negligible, so the only way one is better than the other is in your personal needs for your grill. They’re also the same when it comes to looks (a grill is a grill, after all, and how they’re fueled has no effect on appearance).
Portability
Propane grills are mobile and can go anywhere you go, whereas natural gas grills are tied to your home’s gas line and cannot be moved once installed. So, if you’re looking to grill some brats and burgers for your next tailgate party, a propane grill is the way to go. Load it up in your truck or trailer, connect the tank, and fire up the burgers.
Winner: Propane grill
Ease of Use
Forget fussing with stubborn charcoal. Both propane and natural gas grills have an electric starter, so don’t worry about forgetting a lighter or matches; you don’t need them. Simply flip the starter and get cooking in no time.
Winner: Tie
Easy Cleanup
Compared to charcoal grilling, cleaning a propane grill or a natural gas grill is a breeze. Propane and natural gas burn cleaner than charcoal, so you won't have as much baked-on crud on your grill grates and no messy ashes to scoop after dinner.
Winner: Tie
Maintenance
For all their benefits, propane grills have one major drawback—they’re less convenient to maintain. When your tank runs empty, you’ll need to make a trip to the store and exchange your empty canister for a full one, at the cost of about $20 per refill. Without having an empty to exchange, a new propane canister costs between $25 and $60. Many people keep an extra full canister on hand to avoid an abrupt change to their plans if their propane runs out mid-grilling session.
Natural gas grills plug right into your home’s natural gas line, meaning there are no tanks to exchange and no chance of running out of fuel in the middle of your Memorial Day cookout.
Winner: Natural gas
Price
Natural gas is less expensive than propane on a per-use basis, and since it’s plugged into your home’s gas line, you won't have to worry about paying an extra bill. The cost of running your grill will be included in your monthly gas bill.
But if your home doesn’t have an existing gas line, installing one specifically for your grill might get a little costly (around $550 if you don’t already have one). To attach a natural gas grill to your existing gas line is around $400, according to HomeAdvisor.
With a propane grill, the only upfront cost is the cost of the grill itself and your first canister of fuel. The need to replace fuel canisters regularly may balance over time with the cost of having a natural gas grill installed if you plan to use your grill frequently.
The upfront purchase price is similar whether you opt for a propane or natural gas grill—around $250 to as much as $2,500.
Winner: Propane grill in the short term but natural gas in the long term.