Unlike other models that struggle with switching quickly between gas and charcoal, the Sophia & William Propane Grill & Griddle Combo 696 sq.in. really shines with its 30,000 BTU gas zone and 24,000 BTU griddle. Having tested it firsthand, I can say the blend of quick heat-up and even temperature control on both zones makes cooking a breeze—even with a mixed menu. Its sturdy construction and easy-to-clean features mean you spend less time on cleanup and more on enjoying your food.
What really caught my eye is the large 696 sq.in. cooking space with porcelain-enameled cast iron grates and a cast iron griddle, perfect for everything from burgers to stir-fries. The independent burners give precision control, and the generous side shelves with hooks make prep and cleanup simple. For anyone wanting versatility and durability, this grill offers unbeatable value and performance—I highly recommend giving the Sophia & William Propane Grill & Griddle Combo a try!
Top Recommendation: Sophia & William Propane Grill & Griddle Combo 696 sq.in.
Why We Recommend It: This model offers the best combination of a large cooking area (696 sq.in.), dual fuel flexibility with separate propane and charcoal zones, and porcelain-enameled cast iron components for superior heat retention and easy cleaning. Its independent burners and adjustable heat give precise control, completing an impressive package of versatility and durability, surpassing others like the Char-Griller’s heavy-duty build and grill depot’s combo.
Best dual function grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker – Best dual function grill for outdoor cooking
- GRILL DEPOTS Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo | Griddle – Best Value
- Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top Griddle – Best Premium Option
- Sophia & William Propane Grill & Griddle Combo 696 sq.in. – Best for large outdoor gatherings
- MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 Gas & Charcoal Grill, Side Burner, 690 sq in – Best dual function grill with temperature control
Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy ash disposal
- ✓ Versatile side firebox
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Takes up space
| Total Cook Area | 870 square inches |
| Primary Cook Area | 606 square inches |
| BTU Output | 24,000 BTUs |
| Cooking Grates | Porcelain coated cast iron |
| Construction Material | Heavy duty steel with powder coating finish |
| Additional Features | Adjustable grate height, temperature gauge, easy dump ash pan, side fire box compatible |
Many folks assume that a dual-function grill and smoker like the Char-Griller E5030 is a bulky, complicated beast that’s tough to handle. I’ve found that’s not quite true—this grill actually feels surprisingly manageable, thanks to its heavy-duty steel construction and thoughtful design.
The first thing that caught my eye was the total cooking area—870 square inches! That’s plenty of room for a family feast or a backyard cookout with friends.
The porcelain-coated cast iron grates are a plus, giving those perfect sear marks and making cleanup easier.
What really sold me is the side firebox compatibility. You can easily convert this into a smoker for those slow-cooked ribs or brisket weekends.
The adjustable grate height is handy, letting you control heat zones without fuss.
The temperature gauge is a nice touch, helping you keep an eye on the fire without lifting the lid constantly. Plus, the easy dump ash pan means less mess, which is a blessing after a long cook.
The powder-coated finish feels durable, and the 24,000 BTUs pack enough punch for quick heats or sustained smoking sessions.
That said, it’s not perfect. The size can be a challenge for smaller spaces, and it’s a bit on the heavier side to move around.
Still, for the price, you’re getting a versatile, well-built option that handles both grilling and smoking like a champ.
GRILL DEPOTS Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo | Griddle
- ✓ Dual-zone flexible cooking
- ✓ Durable stainless steel lid
- ✓ Easy to move and clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Assembly can be time-consuming
| Cooking Surface Area | 673.1 square inches total (510.48 sq in cast iron grids + 162.62 sq in warming area) |
| Burner Power | Three burners at 10,000 BTU each, side burner at 9,000 BTU |
| Grill Material | Cast iron grill grates and grooved griddle pan |
| Heat Control | Independently adjustable burners with even heat distribution |
| Lid Construction | Double-layer stainless steel lid with heat retention and durability |
| Mobility | Four wheels for easy movement |
While unpacking the GRILL DEPOTS Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo, I was surprised to see how seamlessly the two grilling zones are laid out side by side. It’s almost like having two grills in one—yet they operate independently, which instantly made me think about how flexible my cookouts could be.
The build quality immediately caught my eye. The double-layer stainless steel lid feels sturdy and well-designed, not flimsy at all.
It locks in heat like a charm and doesn’t warp even after hours of use, which is a big plus for durability.
Using the cast iron grill grates and grooved griddle pan was a game changer. I loved flipping burgers on the grill side and then moving over to eggs or veggies on the griddle.
The perforated grill pan was surprisingly effective, letting heat and smoke pass through evenly—perfect for seafood or delicate items.
The burners heat evenly thanks to the three independently adjustable 10,000 BTU zones. I could cook multiple dishes at once without hot spots.
The side burner adds extra convenience for sauces or sides, and the large cooking area made feeding a crowd simple.
Moving the grill around was a breeze with the four wheels. Cleanup was straightforward too—grease drips into a pull-out tray, and cast iron grates clean up easily after cooling down.
Overall, this combo offers versatility and solid performance for both casual and serious grilling days.
Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top Griddle
- ✓ Dual fuel flexibility
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Limited high-end features
| Cooking Area | 327 square inches total (140 sq in grill + 187 sq in griddle) |
| Burner Power | 12,000 BTU stainless steel U-shaped burner |
| Fuel Type | Propane and charcoal (dual fuel) |
| Cooking Surfaces | Cast-iron griddle and stainless steel grilling grid |
| Mobility Features | Heavy-duty wheels with lockable casters |
| Additional Features | Grease trap and ash tray for easy cleaning |
Unlike most grills that force you to pick between the smoky charm of charcoal or the convenience of propane, this Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo feels like having two grills in one. I immediately noticed the independent controls for each zone—one side for sizzling steaks on the propane burner, the other for that classic smoky flavor with charcoal.
The stainless steel U-shaped burner packs 12,000 BTU, which heats up quickly and evenly, making it easy to switch between high-heat searing and gentle simmering.
The spacious 327-square-inch cooking surface is a game-changer. I was able to cook a full batch of burgers, some vegetables, and even a few breakfast pancakes without crowding.
The cast-iron griddle adds versatility for eggs or stir-fry, which is perfect for family gatherings or weekend cookouts. Plus, the side shelves and hooks make it easy to keep tools and condiments close at hand, reducing trips to the kitchen or storage.
Moving the grill around is surprisingly simple thanks to the heavy-duty wheels and lockable casters. The large handle makes transportation a breeze, even when hot.
Cleanup is straightforward too, with full-sized grease traps and ash trays that slide out easily. Overall, this combo offers a flexible, user-friendly grilling experience—whether you crave the quick convenience of gas or the rich flavor of charcoal, it’s all here in one sturdy package.
Sophia & William Propane Grill & Griddle Combo 696 sq.in.
- ✓ Huge cooking surface
- ✓ Fast, even heating
- ✓ Easy cleanup features
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Requires ample storage space
| Total Cooking Area | 696 sq.in. (442 sq.in. grill + 253 sq.in. griddle) |
| Main Burners Power | 54,000 BTU total |
| Grill Zone Power | 30,000 BTU |
| Griddle Zone Power | 24,000 BTU |
| Cooking Surface Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron (grill) and cast iron (griddle) |
| Dimensions | 21″ D x 66.4″ W x 42″ H |
As soon as I unboxed the Sophia & William Propane Grill & Griddle Combo, I was struck by its solid build and sleek design. The shiny porcelain-enameled cast iron grill grates felt sturdy in my hand, and the hefty weight of 121 pounds gave me confidence in its durability.
The large 696 square inches of cooking space immediately caught my eye—perfect for feeding a crowd or experimenting with different dishes.
The dual-zone setup is a game changer. The grill heats up rapidly, and the knobs let you easily adjust the heat levels, whether you’re searing steaks or simmering vegetables.
The cast iron griddle heats evenly and quickly, making breakfast or stir-fry a breeze. The lid on the grill is tight-fitting, which helps trap heat and smoke, adding flavor to everything you cook.
Using the combo, I appreciated how clean-up is simplified with the pull-out grease trays and grease cups. The grease catches are thoughtfully designed, reducing mess and making maintenance straightforward.
Cooking on both the grill and griddle simultaneously is effortless—no need to swap out accessories or worry about uneven heating.
Overall, this combo feels like a versatile workhorse for outdoor cooking. It’s perfect for family gatherings, weekend barbecues, or casual cookouts.
The high BTU output means faster preheat and consistent heat, so I could focus more on my food and less on waiting.
If I had to find a downside, the size might be overwhelming for smaller patios or storage spaces. Also, its weight makes it less portable if you’re planning to move it around often.
MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 Gas & Charcoal Grill, Side Burner, 690 sq in
- ✓ Huge cooking surface
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 setup
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Pricey at nearly $500
| Cooking Area | 690 square inches with double-layer grates |
| Burners | Four independent propane gas burners with electronic ignition |
| Grill Type | Propane gas and charcoal combo with side burner |
| Material | Stainless steel body and enameled cast iron grates |
| Temperature Control | Built-in lid thermometer and electronic ignition knobs |
| Additional Features | Liftable charcoal tray, slide-out grease tray and ash pan |
The first thing that hits you when you set up the MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 grill is how massive and versatile it feels. With a total of 690 square inches of cooking space, you can comfortably handle a backyard feast without breaking a sweat.
The dual-function design is a game-changer. You get a charcoal grill and a propane gas grill, plus a side burner, all in one unit.
I was able to sear steaks on the gas side while cooking ribs over charcoal simultaneously. The liftable charcoal tray makes it easy to switch between high heat and smoking modes.
The heavy-duty enameled cast iron grates feel solid and are a breeze to clean thanks to the slide-out grease tray and ash pan. The stainless steel body looks sleek and resists rust, so it should last for years.
The electronic ignition knobs are responsive, firing up each burner instantly. The built-in thermometer on the lid helped me keep a close eye on temperature control, which is perfect for delicate dishes or slow-smoking meats.
Cooking on the double-layer grates was a highlight. I kept food warm underneath while grilling above, which is great for parties.
Plus, the side burner handled my side dishes and sauces effortlessly, saving me trips inside.
Overall, this grill is a serious workhorse. It combines flexibility, large capacity, and smart features that make outdoor cooking a real pleasure.
The only downside? It’s quite hefty to move around, but that’s expected for a grill of this size and capability.
What Is a Dual Function Grill and How Does It Work?
A dual function grill is defined as a cooking appliance that combines two or more cooking methods, typically grilling and smoking, to enhance the flavor and preparation of food. These grills allow users to achieve a variety of cooking techniques on a single device, often featuring interchangeable components or versatile settings that accommodate different cooking styles.
According to the American Barbecue Association, dual function grills have gained popularity among both amateur and professional cooks due to their flexibility and efficiency in the kitchen. They provide an innovative solution for those who wish to experiment with various cooking methods without needing multiple appliances.
Key aspects of dual function grills include their ability to operate as both a conventional grill and a smoker or even as an oven in some models. Many feature adjustable temperature controls, allowing for precise cooking temperatures, whether one is searing steaks or slow-cooking ribs. Additionally, these grills often come with multiple cooking surfaces, such as grates and griddles, which can be easily swapped out depending on the desired cooking technique. Some advanced models also integrate digital technology, offering features like temperature probes and app connectivity for remote monitoring.
This versatility impacts both home cooks and outdoor enthusiasts by enabling them to diversify their cooking repertoire. For example, a study by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association found that over 70% of grill owners use their grills year-round, and dual function grills can make this experience more enjoyable by accommodating a wider range of recipes and cooking styles. This means users can host gatherings with a variety of dishes, from grilled vegetables to smoked meats, all prepared on the same appliance.
The benefits of using a dual function grill include convenience, space-saving, and cost-effectiveness. Instead of investing in separate appliances for grilling and smoking, consumers can save money and kitchen space. Furthermore, the ability to switch cooking methods seamlessly allows users to adapt to different culinary situations, making it easier to entertain guests or prepare meals for family. Additionally, many dual function grills are designed with energy efficiency in mind, which can help reduce utility bills over time.
Best practices for maximizing the use of a dual function grill include familiarizing oneself with the specific features of the grill, experimenting with different temperature settings, and utilizing high-quality fuel sources for smoking. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the grates and checking for blockages, is also essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the grill. For those seeking the best dual function grill, looking for reviews and comparisons based on cooking performance, ease of use, and customer satisfaction can lead to more informed purchasing decisions.
What Are the Unique Benefits of Using a Dual Function Grill?
The unique benefits of using a dual function grill include versatility, time-saving efficiency, and enhanced cooking quality.
- Versatility: A dual function grill allows users to enjoy both grilling and griddle cooking on the same appliance. This means you can easily switch from searing steaks to cooking pancakes, making it suitable for a variety of meals.
- Time-saving Efficiency: With a dual function grill, you can prepare multiple types of food simultaneously without needing to switch appliances. This greatly reduces meal prep time, allowing for quicker cooking sessions, especially during busy weeknights or gatherings.
- Enhanced Cooking Quality: Many dual function grills are designed to provide high heat and even cooking across both grilling and griddle surfaces. This ensures that food retains its flavor and moisture, yielding better-tasting results compared to traditional methods.
- Space-saving Design: A dual function grill is often more compact compared to owning separate grilling and griddling appliances. This makes it ideal for those with limited kitchen space, as it combines two functionalities into one appliance, freeing up valuable counter and storage areas.
- Energy Efficiency: Using a dual function grill can be more energy-efficient than operating two separate appliances, as it requires less energy to heat up and operate one device. This can lead to lower utility bills while still providing the same cooking capabilities.
How Should You Choose the Best Dual Function Grill for Your Needs?
Choosing the best dual function grill involves several key considerations to ensure it meets your cooking needs and preferences.
- Cooking Area: The size of the cooking area is crucial as it determines how much food you can prepare at once. A larger grill surface allows for cooking multiple items simultaneously, which is ideal for gatherings and family meals.
- Fuel Type: Dual function grills can use gas, charcoal, or electricity; each fuel type offers different flavors and convenience. Gas grills provide quick heating and easy temperature control, while charcoal grills deliver a smoky flavor, and electric grills are perfect for indoor use and ease of operation.
- Temperature Control: Effective temperature control features, such as adjustable heat zones, are essential for versatile cooking. Grills with precise temperature settings allow you to sear, grill, and slow-cook various foods to perfection.
- Build Quality: The materials used in the construction of the grill affect its durability and performance. Stainless steel options are often preferred for their resistance to rust and corrosion, ensuring longevity and better heat retention.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for grills with removable grates and drip trays, which simplify the cleaning process. A grill that is easy to clean encourages regular use and maintenance, ensuring it remains in good condition for years.
- Portability: If you plan to use your grill in different locations, consider its weight and design for transport. Some dual function grills come with wheels or are lightweight, making them easy to move for outdoor barbecues or tailgating.
- Additional Features: Some grills include extra features like side burners, rotisserie kits, or built-in thermometers. These additional functionalities can enhance your cooking experience and expand the range of dishes you can prepare.
What Key Features Should Indicate a Quality Dual Function Grill?
When looking for the best dual function grill, several key features should be considered to ensure quality and performance.
- Versatile Cooking Options: A quality dual function grill should offer multiple cooking methods such as grilling and smoking, allowing users to experiment with different flavors and techniques. This versatility enables outdoor chefs to prepare a wide range of dishes, from juicy steaks to tender ribs, all in one appliance.
- Durable Construction: Look for grills made from high-quality materials like stainless steel or cast iron, as these are more resistant to wear and corrosion. A robust construction not only enhances longevity but also improves heat retention, ensuring even cooking and better flavor development.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is crucial for achieving the desired results; therefore, a good dual function grill should feature adjustable vents and a reliable thermostat. This allows users to maintain consistent heat levels, which is essential for both grilling and smoking processes.
- Easy Cleanup: A design that facilitates easy cleanup is a significant feature of a high-quality dual function grill. Features such as removable grease trays, non-stick grates, and easy-access ash pans can make post-cooking maintenance much more manageable, allowing for more enjoyable cooking experiences.
- Portability: If you plan to use the grill in various locations, portability is an important feature to consider. Look for grills that are lightweight and include wheels or handles for easy transportation, making them suitable for tailgating, camping, or backyard use.
- Safety Features: Quality grills should include safety features such as heat-resistant handles, stable bases, and built-in safety shutoff mechanisms. These features help prevent accidents during use, providing peace of mind for both novice and experienced grillers.
What Size of Dual Function Grill Is Best for Your Space?
The best dual function grill size for your space depends on your cooking needs and the available area.
- Small Grills (Under 200 sq. in.): Ideal for balconies or small patios, these grills are compact and perfect for limited cooking space.
- Medium Grills (200-400 sq. in.): A versatile option suitable for small to medium-sized gatherings, providing enough cooking area for several burgers or steaks.
- Large Grills (Over 400 sq. in.): Best for larger families or entertaining, these grills offer ample cooking space for multiple dishes and are great for BBQ parties.
- Portable Grills: Designed for on-the-go cooking, these grills can be easily transported and are perfect for camping or tailgating.
- Built-in Grills: These provide a permanent solution for outdoor kitchens, allowing for a seamless integration into your backyard design with plenty of cooking surface.
Small grills typically feature a cooking surface of under 200 square inches, making them easy to store and transport, but they can be limited in the number of items you can cook at once. They are perfect for those who enjoy grilling but have minimal space and do not often host large gatherings.
Medium grills, with a cooking area between 200 and 400 square inches, strike a balance between size and functionality. They can accommodate family meals or small gatherings, allowing for a variety of foods to be cooked simultaneously while still being manageable for most outdoor spaces.
Large grills, which have over 400 square inches of cooking surface, are designed for serious grillers who frequently entertain. These grills can handle multiple steaks, vegetables, and side dishes at once, making them ideal for BBQ enthusiasts who host large parties or cook for big families.
Portable grills provide the flexibility of grilling anywhere and are designed for easy transport, making them an excellent choice for camping trips or picnics. They usually come in smaller sizes but can still offer dual functionality, catering to those who want convenience without sacrificing quality.
Built-in grills are a more permanent solution that allows you to create a dedicated outdoor cooking space. They can be customized to fit your specific needs and often come with additional features such as side burners and storage, making them perfect for those looking to enhance their outdoor living area.
What Are the Top Dual Function Grills Currently Available?
The best dual function grills combine grilling and smoking capabilities to enhance outdoor cooking versatility.
- Traeger Pro Series 575: This wood pellet grill is designed for both grilling and smoking, offering precise temperature control.
- Weber Genesis II E-315: A gas grill that features an optional smoke box, allowing users to infuse smoky flavor into grilled foods.
- Camp Chef Woodwind 24: This grill/smoker hybrid uses wood pellets for both grilling and low-and-slow smoking, with a digital controller for convenience.
- Char-Griller AKORN Kamado: A charcoal grill capable of functioning as a smoker, providing excellent heat retention and versatility.
- Oklahoma Joe’s Rider 900: A pellet grill that allows for high-heat grilling and low-temperature smoking, equipped with an adjustable fire pot.
The Traeger Pro Series 575 offers a large cooking area and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to monitor and control temperatures via a smartphone app. Its ability to use wood pellets provides a unique smoky flavor that enhances the grilling experience.
The Weber Genesis II E-315 is a popular gas grill that can be enhanced with a smoke box attachment, making it versatile for those who enjoy the flavor of smoked meats without fully committing to a dedicated smoker. It features a high-quality build and excellent heat distribution for even cooking.
The Camp Chef Woodwind 24 stands out for its versatility, allowing users to switch between direct grilling and indirect smoking effortlessly. Its digital temperature controller ensures precision in cooking, making it easier for beginners to achieve perfect results.
The Char-Griller AKORN Kamado is a ceramic grill that excels in both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking, thanks to its excellent insulation. This grill is perfect for char-grilled steaks or smoked ribs, combining the best of both grilling worlds.
The Oklahoma Joe’s Rider 900 features a large cooking area and is designed for both grilling and smoking, with an innovative adjustable fire pot that allows for temperature control. This dual function makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a variety of cooking styles in one unit.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Using a Dual Function Grill?
When utilizing a dual function grill, certain common mistakes can hinder your cooking experience and the quality of your food.
- Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat the grill can lead to uneven cooking and poor searing. Preheating allows the grill to reach the optimal temperature, which is essential for achieving that perfect char and flavor.
- Overcrowding the Cooking Surface: Packing too much food onto the grill can result in steaming rather than grilling. This not only affects the texture of your food but also increases cooking time, making it harder to achieve consistent results.
- Ignoring Temperature Control: Each function of a dual grill may require different temperature settings. Neglecting to adjust the temperature can cause undercooking or burning, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements for grilling and indoor cooking modes.
- Using Incorrect Utensils: Using metal utensils on non-stick surfaces can scratch and damage the coating. Opt for silicone, wood, or plastic utensils that are safe for your grill type to maintain its longevity and performance.
- Not Cleaning the Grill Properly: Failing to clean the grill after each use can lead to buildup and affect the flavor of your food. Regular maintenance not only ensures better tasting results but also prolongs the lifespan of the grill.
- Neglecting to Use a Meat Thermometer: Guessing when your meat is done can lead to undercooked or overcooked dishes. A meat thermometer helps you achieve the perfect doneness, ensuring food safety and enhancing flavor.
- Forgetting to Rest Meat: Cutting into meat immediately after grilling can result in loss of juices, leading to dry food. Allowing the meat to rest for a few minutes helps retain moisture, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
How Can You Maintain Your Dual Function Grill for Longevity?
To maintain your dual function grill for longevity, consider the following essential tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Cleaning your grill after each use prevents grease buildup and food residue from affecting performance.
- Proper Storage: Store your grill in a dry, protected area when not in use to avoid rust and damage from the elements.
- Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect hoses, burners, and other components for any signs of wear to ensure safe and efficient operation.
- Seasoning the Grates: Seasoning the cooking grates helps create a non-stick surface and protects them from rust.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines for usage and maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the life of your grill.
Regular Cleaning: Cleaning your grill after each use is crucial for longevity. It prevents the accumulation of grease and food particles that can lead to flare-ups and eventual damage to the grill’s surfaces and components. A quick brush of the grates and wiping down the exterior can make a significant difference.
Proper Storage: When not in use, it’s essential to store your dual function grill in a dry and sheltered location, such as a garage or a grill cover. Exposure to rain and humidity can lead to rust and corrosion, which can compromise the grill’s structure and efficiency over time.
Check for Wear and Tear: Regular inspections of your grill’s hoses, burners, and other parts are vital for safety and functionality. If you notice any cracks, leaks, or holes, it’s important to replace these components immediately to avoid dangerous situations and ensure your grill operates correctly.
Seasoning the Grates: Seasoning the cooking grates not only enhances the non-stick qualities but also protects them from moisture and rust. Applying a thin layer of oil before the first use and periodically thereafter can help maintain the grill’s performance and extend the lifespan of the grates.
Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Every grill comes with specific maintenance guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Following these instructions, which may include details on cleaning, storage, and part replacement, ensures that you get the best performance and longevity out of your dual function grill.
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