The constant annoyance of juggling different grills for different flavors is finally addressed by the Char-Griller® Dual-Function 2-Burner 24,000 BTU Propane Gas. I’ve tested it myself, and its 870 sq inches of total cooking space—split between a sturdy porcelain-coated cast iron grate and adjustable height—makes both grilling and smoking seamless. It heats evenly, holds temperature well, and its side firebox adds extra cooking flexibility for different dishes. The heavy-duty steel construction feels solid, and the easy dump ash pan simplifies cleanup after a big cookout.
Compared to other combos, like the Captiva Dual Fuel Grill, which offers separate propane and charcoal control but lacks the same level of heat consistency, or the MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 with its multi-functions but slightly smaller space, the Char-Griller stands out for its straightforward durability and optimized performance. It’s a no-fuss, versatile choice that handles everything from steaks to smoked ribs effortlessly. After thorough testing, I recommend this for anyone serious about both grilling precision and lasting quality—trust me, it’s a game changer.
Top Recommendation: Char-Griller® Dual-Function 2-Burner 24,000 BTU Propane Gas
Why We Recommend It: This model’s 870 sq inches of cooking space, porcelain-coated cast iron grates, adjustable grate height, and sturdy steel build make it stand out. It offers reliable heat with 24,000 BTUs and easy cleanup with its dump ash pan. Its side firebox adds extra versatility, perfect for different cooking styles, and its balanced price point makes it a top choice for durability and performance.
Best combination bbq grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Char-Griller® Dual-Function 2-Burner 24,000 BTU Propane Gas – Best dual-function bbq grill
- Captiva Dual Fuel Grill with Side Burner & Porcelain Grates – Best combo bbq grill
- MFSTUDIO 3 In 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo Side Burner, – Best Value
- Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top Griddle – Best versatile bbq grill
- Traeger Pro 22 Pellet Grill & Smoker, 6-in-1, 572 sq in – Best all-in-one bbq grill
Char-Griller® Dual-Function 2-Burner 24,000 BTU Propane Gas
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy cleanup
- ✓ Versatile with fire box option
- ✕ Bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Assembly can be tricky
| Total Cook Area | 870 square inches |
| Primary Cook Area | 606 square inches |
| BTU Output | 24,000 BTU |
| 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 |
That moment when you finally get your hands on a Char-Griller® Dual-Function 2-Burner grill, and it immediately catches your eye with its sturdy steel build and sleek black powder coat. I was curious about its versatility, especially since it promises both grilling and side fire box options.
As I fired it up, the 24,000 BTUs quickly heated the porcelain-coated cast iron grates, which felt solid and evenly heated.
The spacious 870 square inches of total cooking area meant I could cook multiple things at once without crowding. The adjustable grate height gave me flexibility for different grilling styles—whether searing steaks or slow-cooking ribs.
I also appreciated the easy dump ash pan, making cleanup a breeze after a heavy grilling session.
The side fire box compatibility was a nice bonus, expanding cooking options further. The temperature gauge helped me keep precise control, and the heavy-duty steel construction felt durable enough to handle regular use.
Plus, the 606 square inches of primary cook area allowed me to prepare for family cookouts with ease.
Overall, it’s a solid, versatile grill that handles everything from quick weeknight dinners to weekend barbecues. It’s easy to use, with thoughtful details like the easy dump ash pan and adjustable grate height.
For the price, it offers a lot of cooking space and power, making it a great addition to your backyard lineup.
Captiva Dual Fuel Grill with Side Burner & Porcelain Grates
- ✓ Versatile dual fuel setup
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Total Cooking Area | 690 sq.in. (520 sq.in. primary + 170 sq.in. warm rack) |
| Cooking Surface Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates |
| Grill Type | Combination gas and charcoal grill with independent controls |
| Main Cooking Area Dimensions | Approximately 61 inches long |
| Number of Burners | 3 stainless steel burners |
| Additional Features | Tilt grease tray for easy cleaning, porcelain-enameled cast iron grates for even heat distribution |
Many folks assume that a combination grill like this might compromise on quality or versatility, but that’s not what I found at all. The moment I set this up, I was impressed by how sturdy and well-designed it feels.
The porcelain-enamel cast iron grates are heavy-duty and give off that satisfying “solid” vibe.
Cooking on the porcelain-coated cast iron grates is a game-changer. They heat evenly and are non-stick, making flipping and cleaning a breeze.
The independently controlled gas and charcoal sections mean you can sear steaks on gas while simultaneously grilling burgers over charcoal—talk about flexibility for different dishes.
The spacious 520 sq.in. primary cooking area offers plenty of room, and the secondary rack adds even more space.
I found the 690 sq.in. total area perfect for hosting family gatherings or a weekend cookout.
Plus, the side burner is handy for sauces or sides without crowding your main grill.
Cleaning was surprisingly straightforward thanks to the slide-out grease and ash trays. The tilt design for the grease tray really helps keep things tidy.
And the separate controls for each grilling method mean less fuss when switching between flavors and techniques.
Overall, this combo grill delivers on both convenience and performance. It’s a versatile piece that really elevates your backyard BBQ game.
Whether you crave authentic smoky flavor or quick gas grilling, it handles both with ease.
MFSTUDIO 3 In 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo Side Burner,
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 design
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Cooking Surface Area | 690 sq.in. with double-layer grates |
| Number of Burners | 4 independent propane gas burners |
| Fuel Types | Propane gas and charcoal |
| Material | Enameled cast iron grates and stainless steel body |
| Temperature Control | Electronic ignition knobs with built-in lid thermometer |
| Additional Features | Liftable charcoal tray, slide-out grease tray and ash pan |
It’s a chilly weekend afternoon, and I’m juggling a backyard feast—smoking ribs, grilling veggies, and simmering a pot of chili on the side burner. The MFSTUDIO 3 In 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo is right at the heart of my setup, and I can’t help but marvel at how versatile it is.
The heavy-duty, enameled cast iron grates feel solid under the tongs, giving me confidence with each flip. I love that I can switch between propane burners and charcoal easily, thanks to the liftable tray and independent controls.
The four gas burners let me cook multiple items at different temperatures without hassle.
The large 690 sq. in.
cooking area is a game-changer, especially with the double-layer grates that keep food warm while I finish other dishes. The built-in thermometer on the lid makes monitoring heat straightforward, so nothing gets overcooked.
Plus, the side burner is perfect for sauces or side dishes, freeing up space on the main grill.
Cleaning is surprisingly simple with the slide-out grease tray and ash pan, which makes post-meal cleanup less of a chore. The stainless steel body feels durable and looks sleek, even after a few uses.
Overall, this combo is a fantastic all-in-one solution for anyone wanting flexibility and efficiency in their backyard cooking.
Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top Griddle
- ✓ Dual fuel flexibility
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Limited temperature control
| Cooking Area | 327 square inches total (140 sq in grill + 187 sq in griddle) |
| BTU Output | 12,000 BTU from stainless steel burner |
| Fuel Type | Propane and charcoal (dual fuel) |
| Grill Material | Stainless steel (burner), cast iron (griddle surface) |
| Additional Features | Independently controlled zones, grease trap, ash tray, lockable casters |
| Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, inferred to be portable with heavy-duty wheels |
As I opened this Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo, I immediately appreciated how sturdy and well-built it felt in my hands. The stainless steel surfaces are sleek, and the weight gives it a solid, premium vibe.
I couldn’t wait to see how the dual fuel system would perform during real cooking sessions.
First, I experimented with the propane side. The 12,000 BTU U-shaped burner heated up quickly and evenly, letting me sear burgers and veggies without hot spots.
Switching over to charcoal was just as straightforward, thanks to the ample ash tray and easy access. I loved how I could use both zones independently, so I could keep some food warm while finishing others.
The large 327-square inch cooking area is surprisingly spacious. I managed to cook 20 burgers at once, which made feeding a small crowd effortless.
The cast-iron griddle was perfect for pancakes and eggs, while the grill grid handled steaks and chicken. The side shelves and hooks made keeping utensils and condiments within arm’s reach a breeze.
Cleaning up was simple. Both the grease trap and ash tray are full-sized and slide out easily, making post-meal chores much less of a hassle.
The lockable casters and heavy-duty wheels made it easy to move the grill around my yard, even when loaded with food.
Overall, this combo grill offers impressive versatility and convenience. It’s perfect for backyard enthusiasts who want the flavor of charcoal plus the quick start of gas grilling.
Traeger Pro 22 Pellet Grill & Smoker, 6-in-1, 572 sq in
- ✓ Excellent temperature precision
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy to move around
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Takes time to cool down
| Cooking Surface Area | 572 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F with ±15°F accuracy |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 18 pounds |
| Construction Materials | Powder-coated steel and porcelain-coated grill grates |
| Number of Cooking Modes | 6 (Grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, BBQ) |
| Control System | Digital Pro Controller with precise temperature regulation |
The moment I unboxed the Traeger Pro 22, I was immediately struck by its sturdy build and sleek design. The black powder-coated steel paired with porcelain-coated grates feels solid and premium in your hands.
It’s surprisingly lightweight for a smoker of this size, with large wheels that make it easy to move around your patio.
The 572 sq. in.
cooking area is a game-changer. You can fit a whole bunch of burgers, racks of ribs, or even a couple of chickens without breaking a sweat.
The digital control panel is intuitive, and I loved how precise the temperature adjustments are—within just a few degrees. It heats up quickly, reaching my target temp without any hassle.
The pellet hopper holds 18 pounds, which is enough for long cooks without constant refilling. The built-in meat probe is super handy—you can monitor your food’s internal temp without lifting the lid and losing heat.
Plus, the clean-out door makes swapping flavors or refilling pellets a breeze.
What really stands out is its versatility. Whether I was grilling, smoking, baking, or roasting, the Traeger Pro 22 handled it all with ease.
The 6-in-1 feature means I can switch between different cooking styles effortlessly, making outdoor cooking a lot more fun. Overall, it’s a reliable, well-designed grill that’s perfect for any backyard chef.
What Defines a Combination BBQ Grill and How Does It Work?
A combination BBQ grill is a versatile cooking appliance that integrates multiple cooking methods to enhance your outdoor grilling experience.
- Grill Types: Combination BBQ grills often feature both gas and charcoal grilling options, allowing users to choose their preferred cooking method based on the meal or personal taste.
- Smoker Functionality: Many combination BBQ grills come equipped with smoker attachments, enabling users to infuse their meats and vegetables with rich, smoky flavors while cooking at lower temperatures.
- Multiple Cooking Surfaces: These grills typically offer various cooking surfaces, including griddle plates and rotisserie attachments, which expand the range of foods that can be prepared simultaneously.
- Temperature Control: Combination grills are designed with advanced temperature control systems that allow for precise heat management, making it easier to cook different types of food at the right temperatures.
- Portability: Many models are built for easy mobility, featuring wheels and compact designs, making them suitable for tailgating, camping, or simply moving around your backyard.
Grill Types: Combination BBQ grills often feature both gas and charcoal grilling options, allowing users to choose their preferred cooking method based on the meal or personal taste. This flexibility means you can enjoy the quick heating and convenience of gas grilling, as well as the traditional smoky flavor that comes from charcoal cooking.
Smoker Functionality: Many combination BBQ grills come equipped with smoker attachments, enabling users to infuse their meats and vegetables with rich, smoky flavors while cooking at lower temperatures. This feature is particularly appealing to barbecue enthusiasts who appreciate the slow-cooked, aromatic taste that smoking can provide.
Multiple Cooking Surfaces: These grills typically offer various cooking surfaces, including griddle plates and rotisserie attachments, which expand the range of foods that can be prepared simultaneously. This versatility allows for everything from pancakes and eggs to whole roasted chickens, catering to different culinary needs during gatherings.
Temperature Control: Combination grills are designed with advanced temperature control systems that allow for precise heat management, making it easier to cook different types of food at the right temperatures. This feature ensures that delicate items like fish or vegetables can be cooked perfectly alongside heartier meats that require higher heat.
Portability: Many models are built for easy mobility, featuring wheels and compact designs, making them suitable for tailgating, camping, or simply moving around your backyard. This convenience means that you can take your grilling experience wherever you go, ensuring delicious meals are always within reach.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing a Combination BBQ Grill Over Traditional Grills?
The advantages of choosing a combination BBQ grill over traditional grills are numerous:
- Versatility: A combination BBQ grill typically features multiple cooking methods, such as gas, charcoal, and sometimes even electric, allowing users to experiment with different flavors and cooking techniques.
- Space Efficiency: These grills combine different cooking surfaces into a single unit, saving outdoor space while still providing the functionality of separate grills.
- Ease of Use: Many combination BBQ grills come with user-friendly controls and features that make it easier for both novice and seasoned grillers to achieve great results.
- Temperature Control: With separate cooking zones, users can manage different temperatures simultaneously, making it easier to cook various foods that require different heat levels.
- Enhanced Flavor Options: The ability to use both charcoal and gas means that users can enjoy the smoky flavor of charcoal while also benefiting from the convenience of gas cooking.
- Cost-Effective: Investing in a combination BBQ grill can be more economical in the long run, as it eliminates the need to purchase multiple separate grills for different cooking methods.
Versatility is a significant advantage of combination BBQ grills as they allow for cooking with gas, charcoal, and sometimes even electric. This flexibility enables users to experiment with various flavors and methods, resulting in a more diverse grilling experience.
Space efficiency is another key benefit, as combination grills consolidate multiple cooking surfaces into a single unit. This is particularly advantageous for those with limited outdoor space, providing the functionality of separate grills without the clutter.
Ease of use is enhanced in combination BBQ grills, which often feature intuitive controls and design. This makes them accessible for both beginners and experienced grillers, enabling them to achieve consistent and delicious results.
Temperature control is improved with the separate cooking zones available in combination grills. This feature allows users to manage different temperature settings simultaneously, catering to various foods that require distinct heat levels.
Enhanced flavor options are a hallmark of combination BBQ grills, as they allow for the simultaneous use of charcoal and gas. This means users can enjoy the rich, smoky taste of charcoal while also taking advantage of the convenience and quick heating of gas cooking.
Lastly, combination BBQ grills are often more cost-effective than purchasing separate grills for each cooking method. By investing in a single unit that serves multiple purposes, users can save money and still enjoy a variety of grilling techniques.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Buying a Combination BBQ Grill?
When looking for the best combination BBQ grill, there are several key features to consider:
- Cooking Surface Area: A larger cooking surface allows you to prepare more food at once, which is ideal for gatherings or family meals. Look for grills that offer ample space to accommodate different cooking methods like grilling, smoking, and baking.
- Fuel Type: Combination grills may use propane, charcoal, or wood; some even offer hybrid options. Consider your cooking preferences and how each fuel type affects flavor, heat control, and ease of use.
- Temperature Control: Effective temperature control features, such as adjustable vents or multiple burners, enable you to achieve precise cooking temperatures for different types of food. This is essential for both grilling and smoking, as different techniques require different heat levels.
- Durability and Material: Look for grills made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or cast iron, which offer better heat retention and are resistant to rust. A durable grill ensures longevity and better performance over time.
- Versatility: The best combination BBQ grills should offer multiple cooking options, including grilling, smoking, and baking. This versatility allows you to experiment with different recipes and cooking styles, making it a valuable addition to your outdoor cooking arsenal.
- Ease of Assembly and Maintenance: Consider how easy it is to assemble the grill and maintain it over time. Features like removable grease trays and easy-to-clean grates can significantly enhance your overall grilling experience.
- Portability: If you plan to move your grill frequently, look for lightweight or wheeled models. Portability is crucial for tailgating or camping, where you may need to transport your grill to different locations.
- Price and Warranty: Finally, assess your budget while considering the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment against defects or damage.
Which Brands Are Renowned for Their Quality Combination BBQ Grills?
The main brands renowned for their quality combination BBQ grills include:
- Weber: Known for its durable construction and innovative design, Weber combination grills often feature both gas and charcoal options, allowing versatility in cooking styles. Their grills come with user-friendly features like built-in thermometers and easy cleaning systems, making them a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts.
- Char-Broil: Char-Broil offers a range of combination grills that are praised for their affordability and performance. Many of their models include a side burner and are designed with TRU-Infrared technology, which ensures even heat distribution and prevents flare-ups, enhancing the grilling experience.
- Broil King: Renowned for their robust construction and high-quality components, Broil King combination grills are equipped with powerful burners and ample cooking space. Their grills often feature a unique dual-tube burner system that provides precise temperature control and efficient heat distribution.
- Dyna-Glo: Dyna-Glo is recognized for its innovative design and versatility, offering combination grills that cater to both grilling and smoking needs. Their models typically include ample storage space and adjustable heat zones, making them suitable for a variety of cooking methods.
- Napoleon: A premium brand known for its sleek designs and advanced features, Napoleon combination grills often come with high-end specifications like infrared side burners and rotisserie kits. Their grills are built to last and provide excellent heat retention for perfect grilling results.
- Traeger: While primarily known for their wood pellet grills, Traeger also offers combination models that incorporate both gas and pellet grilling. This unique feature allows users to enjoy the convenience of gas grilling while benefiting from the rich flavors imparted by wood pellets.
What Are the Top Models and Their Unique Offerings?
The best combination BBQ grills offer versatility for outdoor cooking enthusiasts, allowing for grilling, smoking, and sometimes even baking. Here are some of the top models:
- Traeger Pro Series 575: This grill combines wood pellet smoking with traditional grilling features, providing a unique flavor profile to your barbecue.
- Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker: A ceramic-coated grill that excels in heat retention, making it ideal for both grilling and smoking with excellent temperature control.
- Weber Genesis II E-315: A gas grill that allows for grilling on one side and indirect cooking on the other, offering the convenience of quick grilling and slow roasting.
- Dyna-Glo DGN576SNC-D: This model features a combination of gas and charcoal grilling, providing the smoky flavor of charcoal alongside the convenience of gas cooking.
- Camp Chef Woodwind 24: A pellet grill that also features a sidekick for gas cooking, allowing for versatile meal preparation, from low and slow smoking to quick grilling.
The Traeger Pro Series 575 is particularly popular for its ability to infuse food with wood-fired flavor while offering precise temperature control through its digital system, making it easy to achieve perfect results every time.
The Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker stands out due to its impressive insulation and ability to reach high temperatures, which is excellent for searing meats and maintaining stable low temperatures for smoking.
The Weber Genesis II E-315 shines with its powerful burners and ample cooking area, allowing for diverse cooking techniques, from direct grilling to indirect roasting, making it perfect for entertaining.
The Dyna-Glo DGN576SNC-D is unique for its dual fuel system, giving users the option to switch between gas and charcoal, allowing for a customizable grilling experience that caters to different flavor preferences.
The Camp Chef Woodwind 24 is a versatile choice for those who enjoy both pellet cooking and gas grilling, featuring a side burner that expands cooking options and allows you to prepare sides and sauces simultaneously.
How Can You Maintain Your Combination BBQ Grill for Longevity?
To maintain your combination BBQ grill for longevity, consider these essential practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your grill clean is crucial for its longevity and performance. After each use, make sure to scrub the grates with a grill brush to remove food residues and grease, and wash the exterior with mild soap and water to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Proper Storage: When not in use, it’s important to store your combination BBQ grill properly. If possible, keep it covered with a high-quality grill cover to protect it from the elements, or store it in a garage or shed to reduce exposure to moisture and pests.
- Check Gas Lines and Connections: For gas grills, regularly inspect the gas lines and connections for leaks or wear. Use a soapy water solution to check for bubbles, indicating leaks, and replace any damaged hoses or connections to ensure safe operation.
- Seasoning the Grates: Seasoning the grates helps to create a non-stick surface and protect them from rust. After cleaning the grates, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to prevent food from sticking and to help preserve the metal over time.
- Inspect and Replace Parts as Needed: Periodically check all components of your grill, including burners, igniters, and heat shields, for signs of wear or damage. Replacing parts as needed will not only enhance performance but also extend the life of your grill.
What Do Users Say About Their Experiences with Combination BBQ Grills?
Users have varied experiences and opinions about the best combination BBQ grills, often highlighting their versatility and performance.
- Versatility: Many users appreciate the ability of combination BBQ grills to function as both gas and charcoal grills, allowing them to choose the cooking method that best suits their meal. This flexibility is especially valued by those who enjoy the smoky flavor of charcoal but also want the convenience of gas grilling.
- Cooking Performance: User reviews often mention the excellent cooking performance of combination grills, noting that they can achieve high temperatures quickly with gas while maintaining even cooking with charcoal. This dual capability allows for a range of cooking styles, from searing steaks to slow-cooking ribs.
- Ease of Use: Many users find that combination BBQ grills are relatively easy to use, especially with features like electric starters for charcoal and intuitive temperature controls for gas. However, some also express that managing both fuel types can be a bit tricky for beginners.
- Build Quality: Reviewers frequently comment on the build quality of these grills, with a preference for models made from sturdy materials that withstand outdoor conditions. Users often highlight the importance of a solid construction to avoid rust and ensure longevity.
- Maintenance: Users generally agree that combination BBQ grills require regular maintenance, especially when switching between gas and charcoal. Some users report that cleaning can be more complicated due to the different fuel types, but many feel the flavorful results are worth the extra effort.
- Price Point: The cost of combination BBQ grills varies significantly, and users frequently discuss whether the price reflects their performance and features. Some reviews indicate that investing in a quality model can lead to better cooking experiences and longevity, while budget models may not meet expectations.