Gas grill compared to regular (high end) oven

I've always been a charcoal guy, but as I'm thinking about buying a new grill I've looked at gas grills, with the convenience of cleaning, speed etc.

But I still can't help to think a modern oven would be able to fulfill a lot of what a gas grill can do (oven broiler plus convection at maximum temperature).

There is no flame, and the heat is from below - but how much does matter?

Disregarding any non-food aspects (pollution, being outdoor, having a beer while grilling), how big are the differences?

Edit: Commenter moscafj below wanted some things clarified, he was spot on. My initial thought was to buy a charcoal grill, and for most other stuff use oven. I've had some thoughts about gas, but I always feel that it's just an "outdoor oven with an open flame".

Thus, I'm now comparing a standard outdoor gas grill to a new indoor domestic oven (with all the bells and whistles I can get).

The "drippings landing on hot bars" I've heard about, but that's basically the only thing.

oven grilling

Best Answer

While you are correct about the basics - both a grill and an oven can roast and sear, and it doesn't really matter if the heat comes from above or below.

However, there's some subtle details:

An oven will have fine temperature control (via a thermostat).
With an outdoor grill you can impart smoke-flavors (either via smoldering hardwood, or by burning drippings). While that's possible with an oven, unless you have one SERIOUSLY good ventilation-system, you shouldn't even try it.
Grills also have the advantage of being outside - cookouts are much less fun when you and your friends are standing in your kitchen, staring at your oven.

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Which is better grill or oven?

Pro: Thanks to precise temperature control dials, ovens (and in particular, gas ovens) can distribute heat a lot more evenly than standalone grills. This also means that the overall temperature of an oven is much easier to manage than the temperature of a grill.

What is the difference between on a gas grill and the oven?

The main difference between oven and grill is that oven is a thermally insulated compartment that is used for heating, baking or roasting or drying whereas grill is a device that cooks food by applying heat from below.

Is a more expensive grill worth it?

The short answer is yes, you should buy a luxury grill if you're looking for a higher-performing appliance with more features and more durable construction. It's easy for us to say this; all of the grills we carry are premium products designed to be better than the big box stores' grills.

Why are gas grills better?

Longer heat up time. Charcoal grills, on average, take about 15-20 minutes to reach the proper cooking temperature (not including the time it takes to light the charcoal), whereas gas grills instantly light up and take about 10 minutes to reach cooking temperature.

THREE REASONS WHY TO GRILL (vs Using An Oven)

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