I found that the gas assist is super convenient. It gets everything ready without any thought or effort. I also got the adapter hose so I can use my 20lb propane tank instead of the small ones. Turn it on, click the button, and you're all ready to cook once the coals are hot.
Not saying that the cubes aren't easy, but when you just want to light it up quickly, the charcoal in a basket right over the propane is a really nice convenience.
I've also used the propane assist to light my chimney for my wsm. While it's totally fine without the propane, sometimes windy or lousy weather can make it harder to get the fire going. Propane assist takes the guess work out of getting the fire going.
Just my 2¢
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