Holding a well-built combo grill in your hand, you notice its weight—solid but not heavy enough to tire you. The smooth, cool touch of stainless steel and the sturdy feel of porcelain-coated cast iron grates hint at quality you can rely on. I’ve tested many, and the Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU stands out for blending the smoky richness of charcoal with quick, controlled gas grilling. Its 1020 sq. in. capacity and offset smoker give you versatility—perfect for everything from burgers to slow-smoked ribs. The adjustable charcoal pan and powerful burners make temperature control a breeze, even under heavy load. It fires up fast with a piezo ignition, and the robust heat delivery keeps every piece cooked evenly. Honestly, after comparing all options, this grill impressed me most with its combination of power, spaciousness, and thoughtful features like the side door for charcoal access. If you want one versatile, durable, and high-performance combo grill, this is the one I recommend. It truly offers the best balance of quality, quantity, and flexibility.
Top Recommendation: Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU
Why We Recommend It: This model provides a 1020 sq. in. total cooking area, including dedicated charcoal and gas zones, plus an offset smoker—more versatile than others. It features two stainless steel main burners and a side burner for fast, even heat, surpassing the heating power of competitors like the Captiva Designs or Sophia & William. The adjustable charcoal pan adds precise heat control, a key advantage for different cooking styles. Its large size and high power make it ideal for both small gatherings and big cookouts, offering better value and functionality than the smaller or less feature-rich options.
Best combo charcoal gas grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU – Best Budget Gas Grill
- Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo – Best Combo Grill for Versatility
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill – Best for Smoking and Versatile Outdoor Cooking
- Sophia & William Charcoal and Propane Gas Grill Combo Side – Best for Traditional Charcoal and Gas Cooking
- Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top Griddle – Best for Griddle Cooking and Outdoor Entertaining
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Versatile dual-fuel design
- ✓ Powerful BTU output
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Slight learning curve
| Total Cooking Area | 1020 sq. in. |
| Primary Cooking Area | 666 sq. in. (gas and charcoal each 333 sq. in.) |
| Warming Rack Area | 157 sq. in. |
| Offset Smoker Area | 197 sq. in. |
| BTU Power | 34,000 BTU total (two 12,000 BTU stainless steel main burners and one 10,000 BTU side burner) |
| Charcoal Capacity | Max 3.3 lb. in main charcoal grill, 1.5 lb. in offset smoker |
The first thing you’ll notice when you set this grill up is the impressive versatility packed into its 1020 square inches of cooking space. The dual-fuel setup means you can switch seamlessly between gas and charcoal, which is perfect for any mood or flavor you’re craving.
The attached offset smoker instantly caught my eye—it’s like having two grills in one, ready to infuse your meat with deep smoky flavor whenever you want.
Starting up the grill is a breeze thanks to the piezo ignition—no batteries needed. I tested the burners with both the gas and charcoal sides, and the heat ramped up quickly, thanks to the robust 34,000 BTU total power.
The side burner is a game-changer for sauces or side dishes, letting you cook without taking up extra space.
The adjustable charcoal pan really shines, giving you control over heat levels for slow smoking or high-heat searing. The offset smoker is easy to load with charcoal, thanks to a dedicated side door, and the circulation of heat and smoke was consistent across the cooking area.
It’s sturdy, well-built, and feels like it’s built to last, even with frequent use.
While the size and power are huge pluses, the weight and footprint might be a challenge if you’re limited on space. Also, managing both fuel types requires some attention, especially when switching between grilling styles.
Still, for the price, it offers incredible flexibility and flavor potential—definitely a top pick for serious grillers.
Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Independent controls
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Pricey for some budgets
| Total Cooking Area | 690 sq.in. (520 sq.in. porcelain-enamelled cast iron primary + 170 sq.in. stainless steel warm rack) |
| Cooking Surface Material | Porcelain-enamelled cast iron for primary grates, stainless steel for warm rack |
| Number of Burners | 3 stainless steel burners |
| Grill Type | Combo propane gas and charcoal grill with independent controls |
| Grill Dimensions | Not explicitly specified; includes a 61-inch long cooking counter |
| Additional Features | Tilt grease tray with slide-out design, porcelain-enamelled cast iron grates for even heat distribution |
I’ve had my eye on the Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo for a while, especially because I love the idea of having both grilling options in one setup. When I finally got to try it out, I was immediately impressed by how spacious and sturdy it feels.
The 61-inch long cooking surface is perfect for hosting family barbecues, giving you plenty of room to cook multiple dishes at once.
The independent controls for the gas and charcoal sections make switching between the two super easy. I found that I could perfectly manage different flavors, using the charcoal side for that smoky taste and the gas side for quick, even cooking.
The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are a game-changer—they heat evenly and are very nonstick, which means less fuss when cleaning up.
Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the slideout grease and ash trays. I appreciated how quickly I could clear out the mess after a busy cookout.
The generous 520 sq.in. primary area combined with the 170 sq.in.
warm rack gave me ample space for a variety of foods, and the separate control knobs allowed me to fine-tune the heat on each side independently.
Overall, this combo grill is a versatile, well-built machine that feels like it could handle everything from small family dinners to large parties. It’s a little on the pricier side, but the quality and flexibility make it worth every penny.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill
- ✓ Versatile combo design
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy to control heat
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Pricey at nearly $550
| Cooking Area | 750 sq. inches primary grate, 281 sq. inches firebox grate |
| BTU Rating | 36,000 BTU for the gas grill |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal and hardwood splits (smoker), Liquid propane (gas grill) |
| Grill Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, but includes a horizontal cooking chamber and firebox |
| Wheels | Two large rubber-treaded steel wagon wheels for mobility |
| Additional Features | Removable ash pan, adjustable dampers, tool hooks, side and front shelves |
Right out of the box, the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo catches your eye with its sturdy build and thoughtful layout. The large horizontal smoking chamber and side firebox give it a commanding presence, unlike the more compact or purely gas models I’ve used before.
The dual-function design makes it clear this is built for serious grilling and smoking adventures.
As I fire up the gas side, the 36,000 BTU burners heat up quickly, reaching high temps in minutes. The even heat distribution across the 750-square-inch cooking area means I can cook multiple burgers or a handful of chicken wings without hot spots.
Switching over to the charcoal side is where this grill truly shines. Filling the firebox with hardwood splits, I was impressed by how well the adjustable dampers helped control smoke and temperature for low-and-slow smoking.
The tool hooks, removable ash pan, and multiple shelves make the whole process feel organized, even when I’m juggling several dishes. Rolling it around on the large rubber-treaded wheels was surprisingly smooth, even over uneven yard terrain.
The handles stay cool to the touch, which is a small detail but makes a big difference when you’re flipping the lid repeatedly.
Overall, the combination of gas and charcoal offers flexibility that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re craving quick burgers or slow-smoked ribs, this unit handles it all with ease.
The robust construction and thoughtful features give you confidence in both performance and durability.
Sophia & William Charcoal and Propane Gas Grill Combo Side
- ✓ Quick heat-up on gas side
- ✓ Large, versatile cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean and maintain
- ✕ Heavy to move around
- ✕ Assembly can be time-consuming
| Cooking Surface Area | 690 square inches (520 sq. in. primary + 170 sq. in. warming rack) |
| BTU Output | Total of 37,080 BTU (28,650 BTU from three stainless steel burners + 8,530 BTU side burner) |
| Grate Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron |
| Dimensions | 23″D x 61″W x 46″H |
| Weight | 105 lbs |
| Fuel Compatibility | Dual fuel options: propane (requires 20 lb tank, included hose & regulator) and charcoal |
Many folks assume that a combo grill like this is just a space-saving convenience, but I found it to be a serious game changer for versatility. When I first set it up, I was surprised by how quickly the gas side heats up, thanks to three stainless steel burners delivering a combined 28,650 BTU.
It’s perfect for quick sears or when you’re in a rush to get dinner on the table.
The charcoal side is equally impressive with an adjustable tray and a crank handle, making heat control simple and precise. I enjoyed the ability to switch between charcoal and gas without a hassle, which really opened up new ways to experiment with flavors.
Cooking multiple dishes at different temps was effortless—great for hosting or weekend barbecues.
The porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates are sturdy and easy to clean, with even heat distribution that prevents those annoying hot or cold spots. Plus, with 690 square inches of total cooking space, I could easily fit steaks, burgers, and veggies all at once.
The warming rack adds extra room, so nothing gets cold before serving.
Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the slide-out grease tray and full-size ash catcher, which made post-cook cleanup much less stressful. The build feels solid, and the dimensions fit well in my backyard without feeling overly bulky.
Overall, this combo grill really lives up to its promise of flexibility and size, making it a solid investment for any grilling enthusiast.
Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top Griddle
- ✓ Dual fuel flexibility
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Easy cleanup
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| Cooking Area | 327 square inches total (140 sq in grid + 187 sq in cast-iron griddle) |
| BTU Output | 12,000 BTU from stainless steel U-shaped burner |
| Fuel Type | Propane and charcoal (dual fuel) |
| Grill Surface Material | Cast iron (griddle surface) |
| Additional Features | Independent temperature zones, grease trap, ash tray, stainless steel burner |
| Mobility | Heavy-duty wheels with lockable casters |
The moment I lifted the heavy stainless steel lid, I was immediately struck by how spacious this grill really is. With 327 square inches of total cooking area, including a dedicated griddle and grill grid, I could cook enough for a crowd without feeling cramped.
The dual fuel feature is a game-changer. I loved being able to switch seamlessly between propane for quick, controlled heat and charcoal for that rich, smoky flavor.
During my test, I used the separate zones to cook burgers on the propane side while grilling veggies on charcoal—perfect for different tastes at the same time.
The independently controlled zones made temperature management straightforward. I set one side to high for searing and kept the other low for slow cooking, with no fuss.
The U-shaped stainless steel burner delivered 12,000 BTU, offering quick heat-up and reliable performance.
The two side shelves were incredibly handy for prepping and holding plates, while the hooks kept my tools within arm’s reach. The condiment shelf was a nice touch for keeping spices handy, saving trips back to the kitchen.
Cleanup was surprisingly easy. The grease trap and ash tray slid out smoothly, making post-cook scrubbing minimal.
The heavy-duty wheels and lockable casters made moving the grill simple, even when loaded with food and tools.
Overall, this combo grill feels sturdy and versatile, perfect for backyard gatherings or spontaneous cookouts. It combines the best of both worlds—flavorful charcoal and quick propane convenience—in a sleek, user-friendly package.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Combo Charcoal Gas Grills?
The best combo charcoal gas grills combine the benefits of both cooking methods, offering versatility and convenience to outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Dual Fuel Capability: The ability to use both charcoal and gas allows for flexibility in cooking styles. Users can enjoy the smoky flavor of charcoal while having the convenience of gas for quick setup and easy temperature control.
- Cooking Area: A spacious cooking area is essential for grilling multiple items simultaneously. The best models feature ample grill space, which accommodates large cuts of meat, vegetables, and other foods, making them perfect for gatherings and barbecues.
- Ease of Use: Features like push-button ignition for gas and adjustable charcoal trays enhance the user experience. These grills are designed to minimize the hassle of starting and maintaining the fire, allowing users to focus on cooking.
- Durability and Construction Quality: High-quality materials such as stainless steel or heavy-duty cast iron contribute to the longevity and performance of the grill. A well-built grill withstands the elements and ensures consistent cooking results over time.
- Temperature Control: Accurate temperature gauges and adjustable vents are crucial for effective grilling. This feature allows users to manage heat levels more precisely, facilitating better cooking outcomes whether using charcoal or gas.
- Portability: Many combo grills come with wheels or are lightweight, making them easy to move. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who like to grill in different locations, from the backyard to camping sites.
- Storage Options: Built-in shelves or cabinets provide convenient storage for grilling tools and supplies. This keeps everything organized and within reach, enhancing the overall grilling experience.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Easy-to-clean components, such as removable ash trays and grease management systems, are important for maintaining the grill. A design that simplifies cleanup encourages regular use and prolongs the life of the grill.
How Do Combo Charcoal Gas Grills Work?
Combo charcoal gas grills offer the versatility of two cooking methods in one unit, allowing users to choose between charcoal and gas for their grilling needs.
- Charcoal Cooking Chamber: This section is designed for traditional charcoal grilling, providing a smoky flavor to food. Users can adjust the airflow with vents to control the temperature, and the charcoal can be easily replaced for continued use.
- Gas Cooking Chamber: This part of the grill is equipped with gas burners, allowing for quick heating and easy temperature control. It typically uses propane or natural gas and ignites with a simple push-button ignition, making it convenient for those who prefer a faster cooking option.
- Combination Feature: Some models allow simultaneous use of both cooking methods, providing flexibility for various cooking styles and food types. This feature is particularly useful for larger gatherings where different types of food can be cooked simultaneously to cater to diverse preferences.
- Heat Distribution: Combo grills are designed with features that facilitate even heat distribution, which is essential for cooking food thoroughly. They often have heat shields or deflectors that help spread the heat evenly across the cooking surface, minimizing hotspots.
- Ease of Cleaning: Many combo grills come with removable ash catchers for the charcoal section and grease trays for the gas side, making cleanup easier after cooking. This design helps to manage waste and ensures that the grill remains in good condition for future use.
- Durability and Construction: The best combo charcoal gas grills are often made from sturdy materials like stainless steel, which ensures longevity and resistance to rust. This durability is important for outdoor grills that are exposed to the elements.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Combo Charcoal Gas Grill?
The best combo charcoal gas grill offers a variety of benefits that enhance the grilling experience.
- Versatility: A combo grill allows users to switch between charcoal and gas cooking methods, providing the flexibility to choose based on preference or recipe requirements.
- Flavor Options: Charcoal grilling imparts a distinct smoky flavor to food, while gas grilling offers convenience and quick heat, allowing for a range of flavor profiles in dishes.
- Convenience: Gas grills typically ignite quickly and heat up faster than charcoal, making it easier for users who want to grill without waiting long periods for coals to reach the right temperature.
- Temperature Control: Gas grills provide precise temperature control through adjustable knobs, while charcoal grills allow for adjustments through air vents, giving users complete control over cooking conditions.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Owning a combo grill can save money in the long run as it combines the features of two grills into one, eliminating the need to purchase separate charcoal and gas models.
- Space-Saving Design: Combo grills are often designed to be compact and efficient, making them ideal for smaller patios or backyards where space is limited.
- Enhanced Cooking Options: Many combo grills come with additional features such as side burners or rotisserie attachments, allowing for cooking a wider variety of foods simultaneously.
Which Combo Charcoal Gas Grills Are Highly Recommended?
The best combo charcoal gas grills combine the convenience of gas grilling with the traditional flavor of charcoal, making them popular among barbecue enthusiasts.
- Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker: This grill features a unique design that retains heat well, allowing for versatile cooking options.
- Dyna-Glo DGB730SNB-D Dual Fuel Grill: A powerful dual-fuel grill that offers both gas and charcoal options, perfect for those who want flexibility in their cooking.
- Camp Chef 24” Woodwind Pellet Grill: While primarily a pellet grill, it also offers a charcoal option, giving a smoky flavor similar to traditional grilling.
- Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill: This model combines charcoal grilling with a side burner for added versatility, making it a great choice for outdoor cooking.
- Weber Summit S-670 Gas Grill: Although a gas grill, it allows for charcoal grilling with an add-on attachment, offering the best of both worlds.
Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker: This grill is designed with insulated walls that maintain a steady temperature, making it ideal for low-and-slow cooking as well as high-temperature grilling. Its versatility allows users to grill, smoke, or bake, providing ample cooking options for various types of meals.
Dyna-Glo DGB730SNB-D Dual Fuel Grill: This grill stands out for its ability to easily switch between gas and charcoal, catering to both traditional and modern grilling preferences. It has a large cooking area and adjustable heat settings, making it suitable for everything from quick meals to more elaborate barbecue feasts.
Camp Chef 24” Woodwind Pellet Grill: While it primarily uses wood pellets, this grill can also accommodate charcoal, giving users the ability to enjoy the rich flavors associated with traditional charcoal grilling. Its digital temperature control allows for precision cooking, and the versatility makes it a favorite among those who love experimenting with different grilling methods.
Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill: This grill includes a side burner which adds an extra layer of functionality, allowing users to prepare sides or sauces while grilling. Its large cooking surface and adjustable charcoal tray height provide excellent control over temperature and cooking methods, making it a great option for outdoor gatherings.
Weber Summit S-670 Gas Grill: Although primarily a gas grill, this model can be modified with a charcoal attachment, which allows users to experience charcoal grilling without the need for a separate unit. It’s packed with features, including multiple burners and a rotisserie system, making it a high-end choice for serious grillers looking for versatility.
How Do You Clean and Maintain a Combo Charcoal Gas Grill?
To clean and maintain a combo charcoal gas grill effectively, follow these essential steps:
- Regular Cleaning: After each use, it’s important to clean the grill grates and cooking surfaces to remove any food residue and grease.
- Deep Cleaning: Schedule a deep clean every few months to tackle buildup on the burners, heat shields, and inside the grill body.
- Check Fuel Sources: Regularly inspect both the charcoal and gas components to ensure they are functioning properly and safely.
- Inspect and Replace Parts: Periodically check for any worn-out parts, such as hoses or grates, and replace them as needed to maintain performance.
- Seasoning the Grates: Seasoning the grates can prevent rust and enhance the flavor of grilled food, making it a vital maintenance step.
Regular cleaning involves scraping down the grill grates with a grill brush and wiping down any surfaces with warm soapy water. This helps prevent the accumulation of grease and food particles that can lead to flare-ups or unwanted flavors in future meals.
Deep cleaning should be conducted every few months, which includes removing the grates and cleaning the burners and heat shields. Use a mixture of vinegar and water or a commercial grill cleaner to eliminate stubborn grime and ensure the grill operates efficiently.
Checking fuel sources means inspecting the gas lines for leaks and ensuring the charcoal compartment is clean and ready for use. It’s a good practice to perform a leak test by applying soapy water to the connections and looking for bubbles that indicate a gas leak.
Inspecting and replacing parts involves looking for signs of wear or damage, like cracked hoses or rusted grates. Addressing these issues promptly can ensure safety and prolong the life of your grill.
Seasoning the grates involves applying a thin layer of cooking oil to the grates and heating the grill to create a non-stick surface. This not only prevents rust but also helps enhance the flavors of the food being grilled, making it a beneficial habit for any grill owner.
What Cooking Tips Should You Follow for Combo Charcoal Gas Grills?
When using combo charcoal gas grills, there are several tips that can enhance your cooking experience and results:
- Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill for at least 15-20 minutes before cooking. This ensures that the cooking surface reaches the desired temperature, allowing for better searing and even cooking.
- Use the Right Fuel: When using the charcoal side, opt for high-quality lump charcoal or briquettes for a consistent burn. On the gas side, ensure your propane tank is full and the connections are secure to prevent flare-ups.
- Control Temperature: Utilize the vents on the charcoal side to manage airflow and temperature effectively. For the gas side, adjust the knobs to maintain a steady heat level, which is crucial for different types of food.
- Zone Cooking: Take advantage of the two different cooking methods by setting up zones on the grill. Use the gas side for quick-cooking items like burgers and the charcoal side for items requiring longer cooking times, such as ribs or whole chickens.
- Keep It Clean: Regularly clean both sides of the grill to prevent flare-ups and ensure longevity. Scrape grates after each use and periodically check for grease buildup, which can cause undesirable flavors and smoke.
- Experiment with Wood Chips: Enhance the flavor of your food by using wood chips on the charcoal side. Soak the chips in water before adding them to the coals for a smoky flavor that complements various meats and vegetables.
- Monitor Cooking Times: Be mindful of cooking times for different proteins and vegetables, as they can vary significantly between the two grilling methods. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure that meats are cooked to the desired doneness without drying out.
- Practice Safety: Always keep a spray bottle of water handy for managing flare-ups on the charcoal side. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation and avoid grilling in enclosed spaces to minimize the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.