Propane grills differ from charcoal grills in that instead of heating the food directly, they heat grilling elements that radiate the heat to cook the food. Charcoal grills, however, cook the food by burning charcoal, which become embers and consequently cook the meat. While there is debate over which type is 'best', it should be noted that buying a charcoal grill is both cheaper and lighter, although it is more difficult to clean and new charcoal must be bought frequently.