If you’re in the market for a home pizza oven, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to go gas or electric. Both offer unique benefits, and knowing the key differences can help you make the right choice for your home, lifestyle, and pizza preferences.
Let’s break it down.
Key Takeaways
- Gas ovens deliver high heat and faster cooking, great for outdoors.
- Electric ovens are safer indoors, user-friendly, and multi-purpose.
- Choose based on where you’ll cook, how often, and your ideal pizza style.
- Top brands include Ooni (gas) and Breville/Ninja (electric).
Gas Pizza Ovens: Overview
Gas pizza ovens use propane or natural gas to generate high, consistent heat. Brands like Ooni, Gozney, and Alfa offer popular gas-powered models known for fast performance and portability.
Pros:
- High temperatures: Reaches 450-500°C for Neapolitan-style pizza.
- Quick heat-up: Ready to cook in 15-20 minutes.
- Consistent heat: Ideal for beginners and pros alike.
- Clean burning: No ash or soot like wood.
- Great for outdoor use: Portable and weather-resistant options are available.
Cons:
- Outdoor only: Not suitable for indoor use.
- Less traditional flavour: Lacks the smoky taste of wood-fired ovens.
- Gas bottle setup required: You’ll need to refill propane tanks occasionally.
Electric Pizza Ovens: Overview
Electric pizza ovens are best suited for indoor kitchens and smaller spaces. Models like the Breville Pizzaiolo or Ninja Woodfire (electric mode) provide consistent results without needing open flames.
Pros:
- Indoor-friendly: Safe to use inside your kitchen.
- Plug-and-play: No need for fuel storage or ventilation systems.
- Multi-functional: Many can bake, roast, or air fry.
- Easy temperature control: Perfect for precise cooking.
Cons:
- Lower max temperature: Usually tops out around 300°C.
- Slower cook times: Pizzas may take 5–7 minutes to cook.
- Less crispy crust: Harder to replicate wood-fired texture.
- Larger units may take up counter space.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Gas Pizza Oven | Electric Pizza Oven |
| Max Temp | 450-500°C | 250-300°C |
| Indoor Use | Outdoor only | Indoor-friendly |
| Setup Time | ~15 mins | ~10 mins |
| Ease of Use | Moderate | Very easy |
| Taste | Crisp, close to wood-fired | Good, less charred |
| Cleaning | Minimal (no ash) | Easy (no soot or grease) |
| Best For | Outdoor pizza lovers | Indoor convenience seekers |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Gas if you:
- Want high-heat, pizzeria-style results
- Cook outdoors and entertain often
- Value fast cooking and authentic taste
- Are you okay managing a gas bottle setup
Choose Electric if you:
- Need to cook indoors
- Want a compact, easy-to-use oven
- Prefer minimal setup and maintenance
- Are happy with slightly longer cooking times
Recommended Models (2025)
Best Gas Pizza Ovens:
- Ooni Koda 16 – Fast, powerful, and easy to use
- Gozney Roccbox – Excellent build and portability
- Alfa Nano – Premium design with great performance
Best Electric Pizza Ovens:
- Breville Smart Oven Pizzaiolo – Indoor pizza perfection
- Ninja Woodfire Electric Oven – Versatile and compact
- Sage Pizzaiolo (UK) – Stylish, efficient, and easy to control
Final Thoughts
Both gas and electric pizza ovens offer great experiences, just in different ways. If you’re serious about pizza and enjoy cooking outdoors, gas is hard to beat. If you prefer convenience, indoor use, or are limited on space, electric ovens offer excellent alternatives without sacrificing quality.
