The Answer

Wood-fired ovens deliver that authentic, smoky Neapolitan flavor and can reach temperatures exceeding 500°C, making them ideal for pizza purists. Gas ovens offer unbeatable convenience and consistency with instant temperature control and minimal maintenance. The right choice depends on whether you view pizza making as a craft and lifestyle experience (wood) or a convenient dinner solution (gas). For most homeowners, a quality gas model offers the best balance of ease and excellent pizza results.

Infographic comparing wood and gas pizza ovens across flavor, heat, convenience, effort, and consistency — At a glance: How wood and gas ovens stack up on key metrics.

Temperature curve comparison showing wood ovens reach 500°C but take 20-30 minutes, gas reaches 300°C in 15 minutes — Startup time and temperature curves: Wood ovens reach 500°C in 20-30 minutes, gas reaches 400°C in 10-15 minutes.

The Case for Wood-Fired Ovens

There is something primal and satisfying about cooking with fire.

Wood-fired pizza oven interior with roaring fire showing leopard spotting on pizza — The unmistakable leopard spotting of a wood-fired Neapolitan pizza.

Pros

Flavor: Distinctive smoky taste that gas cannot replicate.
Heat: Can reach higher peak temperatures (500°C+) for that perfect leopard spotting.
Experience: The ritual of building and managing the fire is part of the fun.

Cons

Learning Curve: Managing temperature requires skill and attention.
Maintenance: Ash cleanup and soot management are required.
Startup Time: Takes longer to reach cooking temperature (20-30 mins).

Comparison of wood oven with ash buildup versus clean gas oven interior — Maintenance difference: Wood ovens require regular ash and soot cleanup.

The Case for Gas Pizza Ovens

Gas ovens are the modern workhorses of the backyard.

Modern gas pizza oven control panel with temperature knob and ignition button — Gas ovens offer precision control with the turn of a dial.

Pros

Convenience: Turn a dial, and you're cooking in 15 minutes.
Consistency: Constant temperature without refueling.
Cleanliness: No ash, no smoke (unless you burn the pizza!).
Control: easy temperature adjustment for different styles of pizza.

Cons

Flavor Profile: Lacks the wood-fired aroma (though better than a home oven!).
Portability: Often tied to a gas bottle.

Verdict

If you want the full authentic experience and have time to master the craft, go Wood (like the Ooni Karu 16).

If you want delicious pizza with zero hassle on a Tuesday night, go Gas (like the Ooni Koda 16).

💡

Expert Recommendation

If you're on a budget and value convenience: Start with a quality gas oven (Ooni Koda 16 range). If you're passionate about pizza and have the patience to learn: Invest in a wood-fired model (Ooni Karu 16). If you can afford it: Consider a dual-fuel hybrid that lets you enjoy both methods. Remember: Even excellent wood-fired pizza requires dedicated practice—there's no shame in gas if you want reliably delicious results every time.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Wood vs. Gas Pizza Ovens

Feature	Wood-Fired	Gas
Initial Cost	$2,000-$5,000	$1,500-$3,500
Startup Time	20-30 minutes	10-15 minutes
Max Temperature	500°C+	300-400°C
Fuel Cost/Month	£20-40	£50-80
Learning Curve	6+ months	2-3 weeks
Maintenance/Year	£100-200	£50-100
Lifespan	20+ years	10-15 years
Best For	Authentic flavor	Convenience
Weather Resistance	Good	Excellent
Installation	Professional	DIY-friendly

* Prices in GBP, as of January 2026

Want to see the best prices? Check out our Pizza Oven Deals page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you taste the difference with wood fired pizza?

Yes. Wood adds a distinct smoky aroma and flavor profile that gas cannot replicate. However, for a pizza cooked in 60-90 seconds, the difference is subtle to the average palate.

Is a gas pizza oven easier to use?

Significantly. Gas ovens offer push-button ignition and constant temperature control, whereas wood requires active fire management and learning how to control airflow.

Can I use wood in a gas pizza oven?

Only if you have a multi-fuel model like the Ooni Karu 16 or Gozney Dome. Dedicated gas models (like Ooni Koda) cannot burn wood.

What's the real cost difference over 5 years?

Initial cost varies ($2,000-$5,000 for wood vs. $1,500-$3,500 for gas), but gas ovens typically cost more to operate due to propane expenses. Wood ovens have higher maintenance costs (cleaning supplies, repairs). Over 5 years, expect 10-20% higher operating costs with gas.

How long do wood and gas ovens last?

Well-maintained gas ovens typically last 10-15 years before significant repairs. Wood-fired ovens can last 20+ years or even centuries if properly constructed. However, wood ovens often need dome repairs after 5-10 years of heavy use.

Can I have both types in one backyard?

Absolutely! Many owners install both to get the best of both worlds. This requires adequate space (minimum 8-10 feet apart) and proper ventilation. It's a popular setup for entertaining different crowds.

Does climate affect which type is better?

Yes. Gas ovens perform better in very windy conditions. Wood ovens work in any climate but are less convenient in cold weather due to startup time. In rainy climates, consider covered installations or quality weather covers for both types.

Wood vs. Gas Pizza Ovens: Which Should You Buy in 2026?

💡The Quick Answer

The Answer

The Case for Wood-Fired Ovens

Pros

Cons

The Case for Gas Pizza Ovens

Pros

Cons

Verdict

Expert Recommendation

Side-by-Side Comparison: Wood vs. Gas Pizza Ovens

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you taste the difference with wood fired pizza?

Is a gas pizza oven easier to use?

Can I use wood in a gas pizza oven?

What's the real cost difference over 5 years?

How long do wood and gas ovens last?

Can I have both types in one backyard?

Does climate affect which type is better?

Written by James Oliver

You Might Also Like

How to Clean a Pizza Stone: The Safe & Easy Way

10 Must-Have Pizza Oven Accessories for Beginners (2026)

DIY Outdoor Kitchen Planning Guide: Layouts & Costs