Choosing the right outdoor cooking burner is crucial for a great grilling experience. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the different types of burners available—gas, charcoal, electric, and wood-fired. We’ll explore the pros and cons of each, recommend top brands, and give you some useful tips. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this guide will help you find the best outdoor cooking burner for your needs.

Understanding the Different Types of Outdoor Cooking Burners

Let’s explore each type of outdoor cooking burner including its own set of pros and cons. 

Gas Burners

Gas burners are the most popular choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts due to their convenience and ease of use. These burners are fueled by propane or natural gas, providing a consistent heat source that is easy to control. With gas burners, you can easily adjust the temperature to suit your cooking needs, ensuring perfectly cooked food every time.

Some of the top brands in the gas burner category include Weber, Napoleon, and Char-Broil. These brands offer a range of gas burners designed to meet the needs of different users, from the casual griller to the professional chef.

Pros:

Quick and easy to start, with instant heat control.

Provides a clean and consistent heat source.

Variety of sizes and styles available to suit different needs.

Cons:

Lacks the smoky flavor that some people prefer in grilled food.

Can be expensive to purchase and maintain.

Dependent on propane or natural gas availability.

Recommendation: Weber Spirit II E-310 3-Burner Liquid Propane Grill

Why I recommend it:  The Weber Spirit II E-310 is a top-rated product on Amazon, boasting an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 2,700 reviews. It features Weber’s GS4 grilling system, which includes an improved ignition, burners, porcelain-enameled Glamorizer Bars, and a grease management system. The design ensures even heat distribution, and the ample cooking space is perfect for feeding a crowd. The product also comes with a 10-year warranty, giving customers peace of mind.

Charcoal Burners

Charcoal burners are a favorite among many outdoor cooking enthusiasts who crave that authentic smoky flavor in their food. These burners use charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal as the heat source, which adds a rich, smoky taste to the food.

Some top brands for charcoal burners include Big Green Egg, Weber, and Kamado Joe. These brands offer a range of charcoal burners that vary in size, shape, and price, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Pros:

Provides a rich, smoky flavor to the food.

Offers a versatile cooking experience, allowing you to grill, smoke, and even bake.

Many different sizes and styles are available to suit different needs.

Cons:

Takes longer to heat up compared to gas burners.

Requires more effort to maintain the right temperature.

Can be messy and requires more cleanup.

Recommendation: Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch

Why I recommend it: The Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill is an Amazon bestseller, with a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from over 3,000 reviews. This grill is iconic in its design, featuring a porcelain-enameled bowl and lid, along with a one-touch cleaning system. The built-in lid thermometer and rust-resistant aluminum dampers make temperature control easy, while the high-capacity ash catcher makes clean-up a breeze.

Electric Burners

Electric burners are the perfect choice for those who want a hassle-free cooking experience. These burners use electricity as the heat source, providing a consistent and easily controllable temperature. Electric burners are ideal for people who live in apartments or places where open flames are not allowed.

Top brands in the electric burner category include Char-Broil, Masterbuilt, and Weber. These brands offer a range of electric burners that vary in size, features, and price.

Pros:

Easy to use, with a consistent heat source.

Ideal for people who live in apartments or places with restrictions on open flames.

No need to worry about fuel.

Cons:

Dependent on a power source, which can be limiting.

Lacks the authentic smoky flavor of charcoal or wood-fired burners.

Can be less versatile compared to other types of burners.

Recommendation: Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Patio Bistro Electric Grill

Why I recommend it: The Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Patio Bistro Electric Grill is highly rated on Amazon, with a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from over 500 reviews. This grill stands out because of its TRU-Infrared cooking technology, which prevents flare-ups, delivers even heat, and cooks juicier food. The compact design makes it perfect for small patios or balconies, and the durable porcelain-coated grate is rust-resistant and easy to clean.

Wood-Fired Burners

Wood-fired burners offer a unique and rustic cooking experience, with the food being cooked over a wood fire. These burners are ideal for people who love the intense smoky flavor that wood can add to food.

Top brands for wood-fired burners include Ooni, Traeger, and Green Mountain Grills. These brands offer a range of wood-fired burners that vary in size, features, and price.

Pros:

Adds a rich, smoky flavor to the food.

Perfect for high-heat dishes like pizza.

Offers a unique and rustic cooking experience.

Cons:

Requires constant monitoring of the fire to maintain the right temperature.

Can be expensive to purchase and maintain.

Takes longer to heat up compared to gas or electric burners.

Recommendation: Ooni Fyra 12 Wood Pellet Pizza Oven

Why it Stands Out: The Ooni Fyra 12 Wood Pellet Pizza Oven is a top-rated product on Amazon, with a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from over 200 reviews. This pizza oven stands out for its ability to reach temperatures of up to 932°F in just 15 minutes, allowing you to cook Neapolitan-style pizzas in just 60 seconds. The product is also lightweight and portable, making it perfect for backyard cooking or taking on the go. The use of wood pellets gives the pizza a delicious smoky flavor that’s hard to achieve with other types of burners.

Tips for Outdoor Cooking with Burners

Outdoor cooking needs safety tips to ensure that your grilling experience is both enjoyable and safe.

Safety Tips

1. Check Your Equipment:

Before you start cooking, it’s crucial to inspect your burner to ensure that everything is in working order. Check for any leaks, cracks, or other signs of wear and tear. If you’re using a gas burner, make sure the propane tank is full and the connections are secure.

2. Choose a Safe Location:

When setting up your burner, choose a location that is flat and stable. The area should be well-ventilated and free from any flammable materials. Keep the burner away from trees, bushes, and other objects that could catch fire.

3. Use the Right Tools:

Use long-handled grilling tools to keep your hands and arms away from the heat. Wear flame-resistant gloves and avoid wearing loose clothing that could catch fire.

4. Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy:

It’s always a good idea to have a fire extinguisher nearby when you’re cooking outdoors. Make sure you know how to use it and that it’s in good working order.

5. Be Mindful of the Weather:

Wind can cause the flames to spread and can make cooking more difficult. If it’s a particularly windy day, consider postponing your outdoor cooking plans.

6. Never Leave the Burner Unattended:

Once the burner is lit, never leave it unattended. Keep an eye on the food and the flames at all times.

7. Keep Kids and Pets Away:

Keep children and pets at a safe distance from the burner. Teach kids about the dangers of fire and establish a safety zone around the cooking area.

8. Let the Burner Cool Down:

After you’re done cooking, let the burner cool down completely before attempting to clean or move it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, outdoor cooking is a delightful experience that brings together friends and family. Choosing the right burner, whether it be gas, charcoal, electric, or wood-fired, is crucial to achieving the desired result. By considering the recommendations provided for each type of burner and adhering to the safety tips outlined, you are well on your way to creating delicious meals in the great outdoors.

FAQs

1. What is the best outdoor cooking burner for beginners?

For beginners, a gas burner is recommended due to its ease of use, temperature control, and convenience. Weber offers some of the best gas burners for beginners.

2. Can you use an electric burner for camping?

Yes, electric burners can be used for camping, provided you have access to a power source. They are convenient and easy to use, making them a good option for camping trips.

3. How do you clean a charcoal burner?

To clean a charcoal burner, start by removing any ash and debris from the bowl. Next, scrub the grates with a grill brush and soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry before storing.

4.  Are wood-fired burners only for pizza?

No, wood-fired burners can be used for a variety of dishes, including meats, vegetables, and even bread. The smoky flavor imparted by the wood enhances the taste of the food.

5. How do I store my outdoor cooking burner when not in use?

When not in use, clean your burner thoroughly and cover it with a protective cover. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions to ensure its longevity.