If you’re shopping for a pizza oven in 2025, one of the first big questions is whether to choose gas or wood-fired. Both fuel types have their loyal fans, and both can turn out incredible pizzas – but they come with very different benefits and trade-offs.
In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of gas vs wood-fired pizza ovens, compare heat performance, cooking results, convenience, and cost, and help you decide which fuel type is the best fit for your home or garden setup.
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Gas Pizza Ovens
- Ease of Use: Simple to light, precise flame control
- Heat Up Time: 15–20 minutes to 500°C
- Flavour: Clean and consistent, but less smoky
- Maintenance: Minimal cleanup, no ash
- Price (2025): From ~£299
Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens
- Ease of Use: Requires fire management and practice
- Heat Up Time: 30–45 minutes to 500°C
- Flavour: Smoky, traditional, authentic taste
- Maintenance: Ash cleanup required
- Price (2025): From ~£399
Gas Pizza Ovens: Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Fast heat-up times: Most reach 500°C in under 20 minutes.
- Precise temperature control: Adjust flame with a simple dial.
- Low maintenance: No ash, no soot, quick clean-up.
- Convenience: Great for weeknight cooking and reliable results.
❌ Cons
- Flavour profile: You miss out on the authentic smoky taste.
- Fuel cost: Propane tanks add ongoing expense.
- Less “romance”: Doesn’t have the traditional wood-fired vibe.
Top Gas Pizza Oven Picks:
Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens: Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Unmatched flavour: Authentic smoky taste with blistered crusts.
- Tradition: Feels more like “real” Neapolitan pizza making.
- Fuel options: Can use hardwood, kindling, or pellets (depending on oven).
❌ Cons
- Learning curve: Fire management takes practice.
- Longer heat-up: Often 30–45 minutes before ready to cook.
- Cleanup: Ash and soot require regular maintenance.
- Less precise: Temperature fluctuates with fuel quality and airflow.
Top Wood-Fired Pizza Oven Picks:
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose Gas if you want speed, convenience, and consistency. Perfect for families, beginners, or anyone who wants pizza night without the hassle.
- Choose Wood-Fired if you want authentic flavour, tradition, and theatre. Great for pizza purists and weekend cooks who enjoy the process as much as the result.
👉 Some models even offer multi-fuel options, like the Ooni Karu 16, letting you switch between gas and wood depending on the occasion.
FAQs: Gas vs Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens
Do wood-fired pizzas taste better than gas?
Yes – wood-fired ovens add smoky, caramelised flavours you can’t quite replicate with gas. Gas still makes excellent pizza, just cleaner and milder.
Which is cheaper to run: gas or wood?
Gas tends to be more predictable and consistent in cost. Wood can be cheaper if you source your own, but bagged hardwood can get pricey.
Are gas pizza ovens worth it?
Absolutely. They’re beginner-friendly, quick, and reliable – ideal for weeknight pizza without fuss.
Can I use wood pellets instead of logs?
Yes, some ovens (like Ooni Fyra) are designed specifically for pellets. They’re easier to store and burn cleaner than logs.
Conclusion
When it comes to gas vs wood-fired pizza ovens, there’s no wrong answer – just the one that best fits your lifestyle.
- If you value speed, simplicity, and consistency, a gas oven is your friend.
- If you value flavour, tradition, and the craft, go wood-fired.
Either way, both fuel types can help you turn out restaurant-quality pizzas in your own back garden.
👉 Ready to choose your next oven? Check our guides to the Best Pizza Ovens of 2025 or see the latest Pizza Oven Deals on Amazon
