If you're buying a gas grill, you need to choose between propane (LP) and natural gas (NG). Most grills ship as propane models, with natural gas versions or conversion kits available. The cooking performance is identical — the difference is in fuel delivery, cost, and convenience.

Propane (LP)

Propane grills use portable 20 lb tanks that connect to the grill via a regulator and hose. A standard tank provides roughly 18–20 hours of grilling time at medium heat. When the tank runs empty, you swap it at a hardware store, gas station, or tank exchange (around twenty dollars per exchange).

Fuel cost: A few dollars per hour of grilling (varies by region/BTU output)
Portability: Grill goes anywhere — patio, campsite, tailgate
Setup: Attach tank, turn valve, light — no installation needed
Downside: Tanks run out mid-cook if you don't monitor levels; exchange trips

Natural Gas (NG)

Natural gas grills connect directly to your home's natural gas supply via a dedicated gas line. Once installed, you have unlimited fuel — no tanks to monitor, exchange, or store. Natural gas is also cheaper per BTU than propane, which reduces your cost per cook over time.

Fuel cost: Roughly one-third the cost of propane per hour
Portability: None — grill is tethered to the gas line
Setup: Requires a dedicated gas line run by a licensed plumber (a few hundred dollars for installation)
Downside: Fixed location, upfront installation cost, less common in some areas

Which to Choose

Choose propane if: You want portability, you rent your home, you don't have a natural gas hookup nearby, or you grill infrequently enough that tank exchanges aren't a hassle.

Choose natural gas if: You own your home, you have an existing gas line near your grill location (or plan to install one), and you grill frequently enough that the lower fuel cost and unlimited supply justify the installation. The break-even on installation cost is typically 2–3 years of regular grilling.

Keep in mind: Most gas grills are available in both configurations. Some manufacturers offer conversion kits, but not all kits are equal — check whether the manufacturer officially supports the conversion before buying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is natural gas cheaper than propane for grilling?

Yes. Natural gas costs roughly one-third the price of propane per BTU. For frequent grillers, the savings add up significantly over time — though you need to account for the one-time installation cost for a gas line.

Can I convert a propane grill to natural gas?

Some manufacturers offer official conversion kits. However, not all grills are designed for conversion, and using an unofficial kit can void your warranty and create safety hazards. Check with the manufacturer before converting.

Does natural gas produce the same flavor as propane?

Yes. Both fuels produce clean combustion with negligible flavor impact. The cooking performance is identical — the only differences are in fuel delivery, cost, and convenience.