Choosing the Perfect Pizza Oven
If you’re looking to invest in a high-quality pizza oven, one of the biggest decisions is whether to go for wood-fired or gas-powered. Both offer incredible cooking experiences, but the right choice depends on your lifestyle, cooking preferences, and priorities.
At Elite Pizza Ovens, we know that some people love the hands-on authenticity of wood-fired cooking, while others prefer the effortless convenience of gas. Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide.
Flavour – Does Wood Make a Difference?
The biggest advantage of a wood-fired oven is flavour. The burning wood gives your pizza that signature smoky taste and charred crust, just like in a traditional Neapolitan pizzeria. Different woods—oak, cherry, beech—can subtly change the flavour, adding to the experience.
Gas ovens, however, still produce excellent pizza. They reach the same high temperatures, cook evenly, and are easier to control. While they lack the wood-fired smokiness, they make up for it with consistency and convenience.
If flavour and authenticity matter most, wood-fired is the winner. But if you want an easy, reliable cook, gas is a strong contender.
Convenience – How Much Effort Do You Want to Put In?
Wood-fired ovens require patience. You’ll need to build and maintain a fire, monitor temperatures, and adjust logs to keep the heat steady. They take around 30–60 minutes to reach the ideal temperature.
Gas ovens, on the other hand, are quick and effortless. Simply turn the dial, and in 15–30 minutes, you’re ready to cook. There’s no need to tend to a fire, making gas the better choice for busy home cooks.
If you love the process of fire cooking, wood-fired is the way to go. But if you want quick, hassle-free pizza nights, gas is unbeatable.
Cost & Maintenance – What’s More Practical?
Wood-fired ovens are often cheaper upfront, but you’ll need a regular supply of kiln-dried wood, which can cost £50–£100 per bulk order. They also require more cleaning, as ash and soot build up after each use.
Gas ovens tend to cost more initially but are cheaper to run in the long term. Since there’s no ash or soot, they also require less maintenance, making them an easier option for regular use.
If you want a low-maintenance, cost-effective choice, gas is ideal. If you’re happy to put in extra effort for authenticity, wood-fired is worth it.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Use – Where Will You Cook?
Wood-fired ovens are best for outdoor use due to the smoke they produce, making them perfect for gardens, patios, and outdoor kitchens.
Gas ovens offer more flexibility, with some models suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, as long as there’s proper ventilation.
If you want the option to cook indoors, gas is the way to go. But if you love the idea of a dedicated outdoor cooking setup, wood-fired is a fantastic addition to any garden.
Which One is Right for You?
Go for a wood-fired pizza oven if:
- You want the most authentic, smoky flavour.
- You enjoy the hands-on process of managing a fire.
- You’re happy to spend more time on maintenance.
Go for a gas-fired pizza oven if:
- You want quick and easy cooking with instant heat control.
- You prefer low maintenance and minimal cleaning.
- You need the flexibility to cook indoors and outdoors.
Find Your Perfect Pizza Oven
At Elite Pizza Ovens, we stock a premium range of wood-fired and gas pizza ovens to suit every need. Whether you’re after authenticity or convenience, we can help you find the perfect fit.
Still unsure? Get in touch—we’re happy to help!