For outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want the flexibility of both propane gas and charcoal grilling, combo grills offer the best of both worlds. Combining convenience and rich smoky flavor, these grills accommodate diverse cooking preferences and occasions. Below is a summary table of the top outdoor charcoal and gas combo grills selected for their functionality, cooking area, and features.
| Product | Brand | Cooking Area (Sq. In.) | BTU (Gas Side) | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill | Grills House | 1020 | 34,000 | Offset smoker, side burner, dual fuel versatility |
| Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill | Royal Gourmet | Not specified | 20,000 | Side shelves, wheels for mobility |
| Captiva Designs Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo | Captiva Designs | 690 | Not specified | Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates, side burner |
| GREEN PARTY 3 Burner Propane and Charcoal Grill Combo | GREEN PARTY | 685 | 37,000 | Adjustable charcoal pan, side burner |
| Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Combo Grill and Smoker | Char-Griller | 870 | 24,000 | Easy dump ash pan, smoker function |
Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill
The Grills House ZH3005Y-SC offers a substantial 1020 square inch cooking area split evenly between gas and charcoal grills, perfect for preparing large meals. It features an attached offset smoker that can be used traditionally or as a charcoal grill, enhancing food with smoky flavors. The included side burner enables cooking sauces or side dishes simultaneously. This dual-fuel grill provides versatility for charcoal purists and gas grill users alike, with efficient heat and smoke circulation and easy ash disposal.
Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo
Combining gas and charcoal grilling side by side, the Royal Gourmet ZH3002N is designed for versatility and ease. It includes two side shelves and multiple hooks for convenient storage of grilling tools and ingredients. The 20,000 BTU gas burners provide sufficient heat, while the charcoal grill offers authentic flavors. Mobility is enhanced by two 6-inch wheels and two lockable casters, making relocation easy to find the perfect grilling spot outdoors.
Captiva Designs Dual Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo
This grill combo offers a 690 square inch total cooking space featuring porcelain-enameled cast iron grates that combine durability with excellent heat retention and resistance to rust. The propane gas and charcoal sections are independently controlled, allowing tailored heat for various dishes. The integrated side burner adds cooking flexibility for sauces and sides. Its steel construction supports large gatherings with ample space for grilling and warming.
GREEN PARTY 3 Burner Propane and Charcoal Grill Combo
The GREEN PARTY dual-fuel grill features three gas burners with a combined 37,000 BTUs and a side burner for additional cooking needs. The charcoal side includes a height-adjustable pan controlled by a crank, allowing precise temperature management. Its 685 square inch cooking area with porcelain-enameled cast iron grates offers both durability and excellent heat distribution. This grill suits users who appreciate varied grilling styles and consistent temperature control.
Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill
Char-Griller’s model E5030 provides an 870 square inch cooking area with 606 square inches of primary space. This combo grill doubles as a smoker, adding rich flavor options for barbeque lovers. An easy dump ash pan makes cleanup straightforward. With 24,000 BTUs output and two burners, this model balances power and functionality while accommodating a variety of cooking methods in a spacious backyard setup.
Buying Guide for Outdoor Charcoal and Gas Combo Grills
Choosing the best charcoal and gas combo grill depends on several important factors to ensure you get a unit fitting your cooking style and outdoor space.
Cooking Area and Capacity
Assess your cooking needs by evaluating the grill’s total cooking surface. For large gatherings, grills with 700+ square inches offer enough space for burgers, steaks, and sides simultaneously. Smaller units suit intimate families but could limit multi-dish preparation.
BTU and Heat Control
BTUs indicate the gas grill’s heat output. Higher BTUs allow faster cooking and searing. Most combo grills feature independent controls for gas and charcoal sections to provide heat zoning, making it easier to cook different foods at once.
Grate Material and Durability
Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are preferred due to superior heat retention, rust resistance, and non-stick properties. They distribute heat evenly for consistent grilling results.
Additional Features
- Side Burners: Useful for cooking sauces or sides while grilling main dishes.
- Smoker Attachment: Adds the option to slow-cook with smoke flavor.
- Wheels and Mobility: Heavy or large grills benefit from wheels for easy positioning.
- Storage and Prep Space: Shelves and hooks help organize tools and condiments.
- Easy Cleanup: Features like ash pans and removable grates simplify maintenance.
Versatility and User Preference
Dual-fuel grills cater to users who enjoy the quick convenience of gas but also appreciate the authentic smoky taste charcoal delivers. Consider your preferred cooking styles and frequency of use when deciding which grill suits your backyard best.