Finding the perfect grill that offers both gas convenience and authentic charcoal flavor can elevate your outdoor cooking experience. This article reviews the best dual fuel grills that combine gas and charcoal cooking, catering to various needs from backyard barbecues to outdoor events. Below is a summary table presenting the top 5 grills combining versatility, cooking area, and features to help you decide the best fit for your grilling style.
| Product | Brand | Cooking Area (sq. in.) | Fuel Types | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill | Grills House | 1020 | Gas & Charcoal | Offset smoker, side burner, large cooking area |
| Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill | Royal Gourmet | Not specified | Gas & Charcoal | Side shelves, tool hooks, mobility wheels |
| Captiva Designs Propane & Charcoal Grill Combo | Captiva Designs | 690 | Gas & Charcoal | Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates, side burner |
| Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker | Oklahoma Joe’s | 1031 (750+281) | Gas & Charcoal | Offset smoker, 3-burner gas grill, tool hooks |
| Char-Griller Dual Function 2-Burner Propane & Charcoal Grill | Char-Griller | 870 | Gas & Charcoal | Easy dump ash pan, large cooking area |
Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill
This dual-fuel grill from Grills House combines the benefits of gas and charcoal with an attached offset smoker and a side burner for versatile outdoor cooking. It offers a total of 1020 sq. in. cooking area, including separate 333 sq. in. zones for gas and charcoal, a warming rack, and a smoker section. The offset smoker enhances flavor by circulating smoke and heat evenly, perfect for traditional smoked meats or additional grilling space. The side burner is ideal for preparing sides or sauces, making it a compact all-in-one grilling station.
Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo
The Royal Gourmet ZH3002N features a side-by-side 2-in-1 combo design with independent gas and charcoal grills, allowing you to switch quickly between cooking styles. It includes two side shelves for extra prep space and integrated tool hooks to keep grilling accessories organized. Mobility is enhanced with a pair of 6-inch wheels and 3-inch lockable casters for easy repositioning. This dual fuel grill is practical for anyone seeking flexibility with outdoor cooking methods.
Captiva Designs Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo
Captiva Designs presents a dual-fuel grill combo with a 690 sq. in. cooking surface split between a porcelain-enameled cast iron grate and a warming rack. Both gas and charcoal sections are independently controlled, ideal for versatile cooking needs. Its upgraded grates combine the heat retention of cast iron with the durability of enamel, resisting rust and cracking. With a side burner and a spacious cooking counter, this grill suits family gatherings and outdoor events offering flexibility and quality.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal and Gas Smoker & Grill
The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo combines a horizontal offset smoker fueled by charcoal with a 3-burner gas grill, perfect for those who enjoy traditional smoking and fast gas grilling. It offers a combined cooking surface of 1031 sq. in., split between a large primary grill and a firebox for smoking. With 36,000 BTU gas power, this unit heats quickly and maintains consistent temperatures. It includes tool hooks for easy access to grilling utensils.
Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill
The Char-Griller Dual-Function model features an 870 sq. in. total cooking area with 606 sq. in. primary space. It combines a 2-burner propane gas grill with a charcoal grilling section, providing versatile cooking options. One notable feature is the easy dump ash pan that simplifies cleanup after charcoal grilling. This grill is suitable for frequent grilling with ample space and convenience in combining fuel types.
Buying Guide For Gas and Charcoal Combo Grills
Choosing the right combo grill depends on several key factors that enhance your grilling experience:
Cooking Area and Capacity
Consider the total and separate cooking areas for gas and charcoal zones. A larger area accommodates more food, ideal for parties and big gatherings. Some models offer specialized warming racks or offset smokers for additional versatility.
Fuel Type and Control
Dual fuel grills allow independence between gas and charcoal sections. Check if the controls and burners are independent to adjust heat separately. Gas offers quick, consistent heat, while charcoal delivers smoky flavor.
Additional Features
Look for extra components like offset smokers for low and slow cooking, side burners for sauces or sides, tool hooks, and prep shelves that improve grill usefulness and convenience.
Construction and Cooking Grates
Durable materials such as cast iron, porcelain-enameled steel, and stainless steel grates enhance heat retention, durability, and cleaning ease. A well-built grill withstands heat variations and outdoor conditions.
Portability and Size
If you anticipate moving your grill regularly, consider models with wheels and lockable casters. Compact grills with locking lids offer portability for camping or tailgate events.
Cleanup Features
Charcoal grills generally require ash removal, so ash pans or trays that are easy to access and empty significantly reduce maintenance time.
Considering these aspects will help select a dual fuel grill that matches your cooking style and outdoor space.