Burning bioethanol is similar to gas, but the room doesn't dry out as it does with gas - a more gentle, softer heat is created. Heat-wise, it depends on the models being compared.
Some of our bioethanol burners output 15,000 BTU and can heat up to 60sqm of living space. Bioethanol is not, however, on an adjustable thermostat. Some may be turned up and down, but you can't control the room temperature in the same way as you do with gas on mains.