Active Daily Care Eat Smart Health Hacks Recommended
About Contact The Library

Our readers keep the lights on and my morning glass full of iced black tea. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.8 Best Combination Gas And Charcoal Grill | Sear Fast, Smoke Slow

Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.

You want the instant convenience of a gas grill, but you also crave that smoky, charred flavor only charcoal delivers. Choosing between the two has always meant giving up something important. A combination grill solves that by putting both fuel types in one unit — but not all dual-fuel grills are built the same, and the wrong pick can leave you with a flimsy cart that rusts after a season.

I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind WellFizz. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.

Whether you have a small patio or a sprawling backyard, finding the right combination gas and charcoal grill means matching your cooking style to the right cooking area, BTU (British Thermal Units — the measure of heat the gas burners can produce) output, and build quality — and knowing exactly where each model cuts corners.

Quick Picks

How To Choose The Best Combination Gas And Charcoal Grill

Getting a dual-fuel grill is about balancing two different cooking methods in one footprint. The biggest mistake buyers make is focusing on burner count alone while ignoring how the charcoal side actually works. Here is what to check before you click buy.

Cooking Area and Layout

Total square inches is the headline number, but what matters more is how that space splits between gas and charcoal. Some grills give you one large gas zone and a tiny charcoal tray — fine for adding a hint of smoke, but not for a full charcoal cook. Look for grills where each side can handle a real meal, not just a side dish.

BTU Output and Burner Quality

BTU (British Thermal Units) tells you the raw heat the gas burners can produce. More BTU means faster searing, but the burner construction matters, too. Stainless steel burners resist rust far longer than painted steel ones, especially if you grill year-round. A grill with 24,000 BTU across two burners can outperform a 50,000 BTU unit with cheap, uneven burners.

Build Material and Grate Quality

The frame and grates determine how long the grill lasts. Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates (a coating that prevents rust and helps food release easily) hold heat evenly and resist rust better than bare cast iron or wire grates. On the frame side, heavy-gauge steel or stainless steel handles the weight of two cooking systems without warping. Powder-coated finishes provide a durable outer layer that resists weather better than basic paint.

Cleanup and Maintenance

Dual-fuel grills have two messy areas to manage. A slide-out ash tray for the charcoal side and a removable grease tray for the gas side make post-cook cleanup fast. Some grills also include a sloped grease tray that drains into a collection cup, which cuts down on flare-ups and smoke from burnt drippings. If easy cleaning matters to you, check that both trays are full-size and easy to access.

Quick Comparison

Model Best For Cooking Area BTU Output Grate Material Amazon
Char-Griller E5030 Large gatherings & smoking 870 sq in Porcelain-coated cast iron Amazon
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Offset smoking & gas grilling 1031 sq in 36,000 BTU Porcelain-coated cast iron Amazon
Captiva Designs Combo Balanced dual-fuel cooking 690 sq in 11 kW Porcelain-enameled cast iron Amazon
MFSTUDIO 3 In 1 Dual-zone with side burner 690 sq in 37,000 BTU Porcelain-enameled cast iron Amazon
Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Covered storage & prep space 759 sq in 20,000 BTU Porcelain-coated cast iron Amazon
GRILL DEPOTS 41,500 BTU Versatile cooktop & griddle 673 sq in 41,500 BTU Cast iron Amazon
LMNOCHM 4-Burner Combo 3-in-1 gas/charcoal/griddle 455 sq in 49,000 BTU Porcelain-enameled cast iron Amazon
Bestfire Dual Fuel Budget-conscious entry level 327 sq in 12,000 BTU Cast iron griddle + grid Amazon

In‑Depth Reviews

Best Overall

1. Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill and Smoker

870 sq in

The heavyweight that does big-batch grilling and low-and-slow smoking in one

You get the biggest primary area among standard combo grills at 870 square inches — enough for 12 burgers on the gas side and 2 pork shoulders on the charcoal side. Two temperature gauges let you monitor each side separately.

Buyers report the unit weighs about 125 pounds — you will need a second person to assemble it. The heavy-gauge steel and matte powder coat finish feel more solid than other combos buyers have owned. The charcoal side gets hot, often over 400°F, so you have to close the air vent slowly for lower smoking temperatures. One reviewer noted a 20-pound bag of lump charcoal lasts weeks with 2-3 uses per week. Unlike the Oklahoma Joe’s offset design, this is a side-by-side cart layout — the charcoal smoke flows directly under the food, not through a separate chamber.

The side shelf with utensil hooks gives you prep space without using extra patio room. The electronic push-button ignition starts the gas without lighters. The included porcelain-coated (a glass-like coating that resists rust) cast iron cooking grates clean up more easily than bare cast iron.

Dual fuel versatility

  • Massive 870 sq in total cooking area dwarfs most combos
  • Heavy-gauge steel frame feels substantially built
  • EasyDump ash pan speeds charcoal cleanup
  • Dual temperature gauges for precise zone monitoring

Heavy build

  • Grill weighs roughly 125 lbs — not a solo assembly
  • Charcoal side runs hot; requires vent adjustment for low temps
  • Side shelf folds but does not lock solidly

Best for combo cooks: you need the biggest cooking area in a side-by-side combo and plan to handle both gas grilling and charcoal smoking for groups of 6+.

Skip for portability: your patio has limited space or you want a true offset smoker chamber for long overnight cooks.

Best Value

2. Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Smoker and Grill

1031 sq in total36,000 BTU

The offset smoker that doubles as a 3-burner gas grill for weeknight speed

If you want true, smoky flavor from a separate firebox, this is your pick. It is the only model here built as a true offset smoker — a separate firebox chamber (a box attached to the side where charcoal and wood burn away from the food) produces real smoke without direct heat. The gas side has three burners making 36,000 BTU for fast, even cooking. You get a 750-square-inch main cooking area plus a 281-square-inch firebox grate — 1,031 square inches total — beating even the Char-Griller on raw space.

Owners mention assembly is straightforward with clear instructions, and the unit fits about the same space as a standard propane grill. The adjustable firebox and smokestack dampers (vents that control airflow) give you pitmaster-level temperature control. One reviewer notes the gas side hits over 300°F with one burner on, while the charcoal side needs fire tending about every 25 minutes with wood chunks. Two lid-mounted temperature gauges let you monitor both chambers without opening the lid.

The porcelain-coated cast-iron grates hold heat for consistent sear marks, and the removable firebox ash pan makes cleanout fast. Unlike the Char-Griller’s side-by-side layout, this offset design lets you smoke low-and-slow on one half while grilling burgers fast on the gas side — both at the same time.

Sturdy dual burner

  • True offset smoker design for authentic low-and-slow smoke
  • Massive 1,031 sq in total cooking area
  • Three gas burners give more even heat distribution
  • Porcelain-coated cast-iron grates for heat retention

Assembly required

  • Charcoal side needs frequent fire tending (~25 min intervals)
  • Only 2 casters instead of 4 — lifting by shelf may damage it
  • Top gauge reads about 10°F high on the far side

Best for smoking: anyone who wants a real offset smoker and a gas grill in one, with enough space to smoke 2 pork shoulders while grilling a dozen burgers.

Swap for lighter unit: you prefer a side-by-side layout with larger individual zones and higher BTU burner output.

Best Build

3. Captiva Designs Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner

690 sq inPorcelain-enameled cast iron

The balanced dual-fuel cart with upgraded grates that resist rust and stick

You get 520 square inches of main cooking on porcelain-enameled cast iron grates — a glass-like coating that prevents rust and makes food release easily — plus a 170-square-inch warming rack, totaling 690 square inches. The three stainless steel burners on the gas side heat evenly, and the charcoal section uses an enameled tray with adjustable height. That height control lets you sear directly over coals or use indirect heat for smoking.

Customers note assembly takes about 1.5 hours and works best with two people. The gas side lights on the first try, though one reviewer notes the side burner gas line may need straightening during installation. The sloped grease tray directs drippings into a hanging collection box, isolating grease from heat and cutting down on smoke. The full-size slide-out ash tray under the charcoal side makes cleanup quick.

The storage cabinet underneath is sturdy and fits a 20-pound propane tank. One owner mentioned the side racks can be hard to clean because of their shape, but overall the build quality exceeds expectations for this price. The 61-inch long cooking counter gives you room to spread out, and two large wheels plus two lockable casters make it easy to roll.

Budget-friendly combo

  • Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates — non-stick, rust-resistant, and heavy-duty
  • Adjustable charcoal tray height for temperature control
  • Sloped grease tray minimizes flare-up smoke
  • Full-size slide-out ash tray for fast charcoal cleanup

Small cooking area

  • Each cooking side is on the small side — max 2 steaks per zone
  • Control knob order is unintuitive for some users
  • Some reviewers point out thin metal that bent during assembly

Reach for value: you want a well-built dual-fuel grill with upgraded grates, a side burner, and a practical storage cabinet — ideal for families with diverse taste preferences.

Skip for large groups: you need oversized cooking zones for large parties or prefer a fully enclosed cabinet for hidden storage.

Top Performer

4. MFSTUDIO 3 In 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner

690 sq in37,000 BTU

The high-BTU dual-zone that adds a side burner for sauces and sides

At 37,000 BTU from the main burners plus a 9,000 BTU side burner, this model delivers fast searing. The primary cooking area measures 520 square inches on porcelain-enameled cast iron grates, with a 170-square-inch stainless steel warming rack for a total of 690 square inches. Each cooking zone has its own double-layer lid, so heat and smoke stay separate.

Shoppers say assembly takes about an hour with a second person — one reviewer describes it as “LEGO-like” with sturdy packaging. The adjustable enameled charcoal tray and stainless steel flame tamers on the propane side work together to spread heat evenly and prevent hot spots. The dual-layered hoods include built-in stainless steel thermometers so you can monitor without lifting the lid. One owner mentioned the large grilling area lets you use charcoal and gas simultaneously for different foods at different temperatures.

Cleaning is handled by a full-size slide-out grease tray under the gas section and an ash drawer under the charcoal section. The frame uses cast iron and stainless steel. MFSTUDIO backs this with a one-year warranty.

Three-in-one design

  • High 37,000 BTU output plus 9,000 BTU side burner for maximum heat
  • Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates for even heat and rust resistance
  • Dual double-layer hoods with built-in thermometers for precise monitoring
  • Adjustable charcoal tray and stainless steel flame tamers prevent hot spots

Uneven heat

  • Grill area is moderate — best for 2-4 people
  • Assembly instructions recommend not fully tightening screws until the frame is built
  • Side burner reduces counter space when in use

Best for griddling: grillers who want the highest BTU on the gas side and a dedicated side burner for sauces, all in a well-built 3-in-1 configuration that heats evenly.

Swap for even heat: you prioritize larger primary cooking zones and a deeper storage cabinet over raw burner power.

Best Storage

5. Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo

759 sq in20,000 BTU

The visually clean cart with cabinet doors that hide the tank and supplies

You get a cleaner look with this model because two cabinet doors hide the propane tank and accessories. It offers 759 square inches of total cooking area — 592 square inches of cooking grates plus a 167-square-inch warming rack — enough to cook up to 30 burgers at once. The two-burner gas side produces 20,000 BTU, and the charcoal section sits beside it with independent control. That BTU output is lower than the MFSTUDIO (37,000 BTU) or the LMNOCHM (49,000 BTU), so searing takes a little longer.

Buyers report the assembly process is thorough but time-consuming. One buyer mentioned the charcoal side handle came off mid-cook and had to be tightened. The two side shelves each have 3 integrated hooks for hanging tools. Two 6-inch wheels and two 3-inch lockable casters make moving across patios manageable. The slide-out ash tray and large-capacity grease cup handle cleanup on each side.

One common note from buyers: the overall quality feels solid once assembled, but the thin metal on some components bent during assembly for one reviewer. Others praise the sturdy feel after all bolts are properly tightened. The cooking area is generous for a combo at this price tier.

Large cooking surface

  • Cabinet doors hide propane tank and supplies for a clean look
  • Generous 759 sq in total cooking area for up to 30 burgers
  • Two side shelves with tool hooks for organized prep space
  • Smooth-rolling casters and wheels for easy repositioning

Gas line issues

  • 20,000 BTU output is lower than most competitors
  • Some owners mention thin metal on components
  • Assembly instructions could be clearer and more thorough

Reach for capacity: you want a clean cabinet-style grill that hides the propane tank and provides generous cooking space for medium-sized gatherings.

Skip for reliability: high BTU output for fast searing is your priority, or you need heavy-gauge metal that withstands rough handling.

Best Display

6. GRILL DEPOTS 41,500 BTU Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo

673 sq in41,500 BTU

The highest-BTU gas side that also doubles as a griddle cooktop

This model delivers 41,500 BTU — the highest total output among all picks — split across multiple burners, so you get fast, searing heat. The cooking area includes 510.48 square inches of cast iron grids and a 162.62 square inch warming area, totaling 673 square inches. A perforated griddle pan (a flat cooking plate with holes that let heat and smoke pass through) is included — handy for smash burgers and vegetables.

Customers note easy assembly and clear instructions. One reviewer used it 8 times in 10 days and noted the charcoal side has three adjustable levels and uses fewer briquettes than expected. The side burner works well for sauces and sides. The pull-out oil drip tray collects grease effectively, and the cast iron grates have a non-stick finish that makes cleanup straightforward.

One trade-off multiple buyers mention: the surface area feels limited if you plan to use only gas or only charcoal at once — it works best as a true dual-zone. The unit arrived damaged from shipping for one customer, but customer service resolved the issue quickly. The frame is stainless steel with a powder-coated finish, and four wheels make moving it easy.

High BTU output

  • Highest BTU output among all picks — 41,500 for fast searing heat
  • Includes perforated griddle pan for smash burgers and veggies
  • Charcoal side has 3 adjustable height levels for temperature control
  • Pull-out drip tray and easy-to-clean cast iron grates

Rust-prone grates

  • Cooking area feels limited if using only one fuel type at a time
  • Some units arrived damaged from shipping
  • Not the heaviest-gauge metal construction

Best for searing: buyers who want the highest BTU output for fast searing and a griddle option — ideal for varied menus from steaks to pancakes.

Swap for stainless: you need larger dual-zone capacity and don’t prioritize a griddle attachment.

Compact Pick

7. LMNOCHM 4-Burner Propane Grill and Griddle Combo (B0GK4VPZWF)

455 sq in49,000 BTU

The compact 3-in-1 that crams gas, charcoal, and griddle into a tiny footprint

Despite having the highest raw BTU of any pick — 49,000 BTU total (40,000 from four main burners plus 9,000 from a side burner) — this grill measures just 21 x 48.2 x 44.8 inches, making it the most space-efficient option. The cooking area is 455 square inches on porcelain-enameled cast iron grates. It is a true 3-in-1: gas burners, two enameled charcoal trays that swap in for smoky flavor, and a stainless steel griddle pan.

Reviewers point out the assembly is surprisingly quick — one owner reported it took exactly 1 hour. The piezo ignition (a button that creates a spark to light the gas) fires up instantly with a press and twist. The double-wall insulated stainless steel lid traps heat for more efficient cooking, and the built-in thermometer lets you check temperature without opening the lid. The grease tray has a sloped interior that directs grease into a removable collection cup, isolating it from high heat to reduce smoke.

One limitation several shoppers say: the small cooking area (455 sq in) is the smallest among all picks here, so it works best for 2-3 people, not large gatherings. The two 6-inch wheels roll smoothly. Some buyers report the quality is good for the price but not premium — one noted a small dent from shipping that was easily straightened. For small patios, this is the top choice.

Four-burner power

  • Highest BTU output (49,000) in the most compact frame
  • True 3-in-1 with gas burners, charcoal trays, and griddle pan
  • Double-wall insulated lid for heat retention and efficiency
  • Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates for even heat and corrosion resistance

Complex assembly

  • 455 sq in cooking area is the smallest — best for 2-3 people
  • Price increased by in 2 days, per one reviewer’s note
  • Not suited for large parties or batch cooking

Reach for power: patio space is tight and you want the most cooking versatility (gas, charcoal, and griddle) in the smallest footprint available.

Skip for simplicity: you need more cooking area and don’t need the griddle pan included.

Budget Champion

8. Bestfire Dual Fuel Propane Gas Charcoal Grill Combo

327 sq in12,000 BTU

The entry-level dual-fuel with a griddle top and a budget-friendly sticker

This is the most affordable way to get both gas and charcoal in one grill. It offers 327 square inches of cooking surface: a 140-square-inch cooking grid on the propane side and an 187-square-inch cast-iron griddle on the charcoal side. The U-shaped stainless steel burner delivers 12,000 BTU for the gas section. Two side shelves and three integrated hooks per side give you prep space and tool storage, and the cart includes a condiment shelf.

Owners mention the grill is easy to assemble and perfect for 2-3 people. One reviewer described it as “the right size” and praised being able to sear on gas then finish on charcoal. However, a critical caution from buyers: rust appeared on screws and the propane-side cooking pan after limited use, with one owner calling it “now unusable despite paint and wire brushing.” The gas side only has a griddle surface (no grate), so you would need to move the charcoal grate to get an open flame on that side. The heavy-duty wheels and lockable casters make it easy to roll into storage.

This grill is sized for small spaces and small budgets. It has much less cooking area (327 sq in versus the Char-Griller 870 sq in) and lower BTU output. The slide-out grease trap and ash tray make cleanup manageable, but the rust reports are a real concern for anyone planning regular use through multiple seasons.

Compact dual fuel

  • Lowest entry price for a gas and charcoal dual-fuel grill
  • Includes cast-iron griddle and separate cooking grid for diverse cooking
  • Lightweight and easy to move with lockable casters
  • Side shelves, hooks, and condiment shelf for tool organization

Small hopper

  • 327 sq in cooking area is the smallest; Char-Griller offers 870 sq in
  • Rust on screws and propane-side pan after limited use, per buyer reports
  • Gas side only has a griddle — no open grate for direct flame cooking

Best for small spaces: your budget is tight, you have a very small patio, and you only cook for 1-3 people — the bare minimum dual-fuel experience.

Swap for larger capacity: you plan to grill multiple times a week or need a durable build that lasts beyond one season without rust.

Understanding the Specs

Cooking Area (Square Inches)

This is the total grilling surface across both fuel zones. Higher numbers mean more burgers, steaks, or veggies at once. But look at the split — some grills give you a huge gas section and a tiny charcoal tray. You want each zone big enough for a real meal, not just a side dish. The Char-Griller offers 870 square inches, while the Bestfire gives only 327 square inches — a difference that determines whether you feed a crowd or a couple.

BTU Output

British Thermal Units measure the heat output of the gas burners. Higher BTU means the grill reaches searing temperatures faster. The LMNOCHM hits 49,000 BTU for serious heat, while the Bestfire offers just 12,000 BTU for slower cooking. But BTU alone does not tell the whole story — burner quality and even heat distribution matter just as much. A well-designed 24,000 BTU burner can outperform a cheap 40,000 BTU unit that burns unevenly.

FAQ

Can I use gas and charcoal at the same time on a combination grill?
Yes, most combination grills are designed with independently controlled zones. The gas side and charcoal side have separate lids and controls, letting you cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously. The Char-Griller and Oklahoma Joe’s both support this.
Which is better, side-by-side or offset layout?
Side-by-side layouts (like the Char-Griller and Captiva Designs) give you two equal cooking zones with independent lids — ideal for simultaneous gas and charcoal grilling. Offset layouts (like the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo) have a separate firebox that produces true smoked flavor by burning charcoal and wood chunks away from the food. Choose side-by-side for versatility, offset for authentic smoke.
How long do porcelain-enameled cast iron grates last?
Porcelain-enameled (a glass-like coating) cast iron grates typically last several seasons with proper care. They resist rust better than bare cast iron because the enamel coating acts as a barrier. They also clean more easily and hold heat evenly for consistent sear marks. The MFSTUDIO and Captiva Designs both use this upgraded grate material.
Do I need a special propane tank for these grills?
All the grills in this guide use standard 20-pound propane tanks, the kind you exchange at most hardware stores or gas stations. None of them include the tank — you need to buy or exchange one separately. The Oklahoma Joe’s and MFSTUDIO both specify a 20-pound LP tank is required.
What is the difference between a charcoal tray and a charcoal firebox?
A charcoal tray is a flat pan that sits under the cooking grate — common in side-by-side combos like the Captiva Designs. It holds briquettes or lump charcoal directly under the food. A charcoal firebox is a separate chamber attached to the side of the grill (offset smoker design), like on the Oklahoma Joe’s. The firebox produces smoke that flows through the main chamber, giving you true low-and-slow smoking without direct heat on the food.
How hard is assembly for these combo grills?
Assembly time ranges from about 1 hour (Bestfire, LMNOCHM) to 2-3 hours (Oklahoma Joe’s, Royal Gourmet). Most buyers recommend having a second person to help, especially for heavier units like the Char-Griller (about 125 lbs). Tools are typically included. Multiple reviewers across products emphasize not fully tightening screws until the main frame is fully built.
Can I use wood chips in a combination gas and charcoal grill?
Yes, on the charcoal side of any combo grill. Just add soaked wood chips or chunks to the charcoal briquettes before lighting. The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo is specifically designed for wood chunks and charcoal because it is a true offset smoker — the firebox door gives easy access to stoke the fire and add wood.
Which combination grill has the largest cooking area?
The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo leads with a total of 1,031 square inches — 750 square inches in the main chamber and 281 square inches on the firebox grate. The Char-Griller E5030 is second at 870 square inches. The Bestfire has the smallest at 327 square inches versus the Char-Griller’s 870 square inches.
Should I buy a cover for my combination gas and charcoal grill?
Yes, most buyers recommend buying a weatherproof cover to protect the grill from rain, snow, and UV exposure. Even with powder-coated finishes, exposure to the elements can accelerate rust and corrosion. Many brands like Char-Griller and Royal Gourmet sell custom-fit covers. The Oklahoma Joe’s reviewers specifically note covers are important for longevity.
What is the best combination gas and charcoal grill for beginners?
The GRILL DEPOTS 41,500 BTU model is a strong choice for beginners because it offers easy assembly, clear instructions, a side burner for simple sides, and a charcoal side with three adjustable height levels that make temperature control straightforward. The LMNOCHM is also beginner-friendly due to its compact size and simple piezo push-button ignition.

Final Thoughts: The Verdict

Across the board, the combination gas and charcoal grill winner is the Char-Griller E5030 because it offers the best balance of massive cooking area (870 sq in), durable heavy-gauge steel build, and practical dual-zone versatility at a reasonable value. If you want true offset smoker performance for low-and-slow barbecue, grab the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo — its 1,031 square inches and separate firebox let you smoke and grill simultaneously with authentic wood-fired flavor. And for those with small patios and a strict budget, the LMNOCHM 4-Burner Combo packs 49,000 BTU and gas, charcoal, and griddle cooking into the most compact footprint available.

How We Picked

We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.

Sources & Methodology

Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.

As an Amazon Associate, WellFizz earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.

Related Guides

Mo Maruf
Founder & Lead Editor

Mo Maruf

I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.

Beyond the data, I am a passionate traveler. I believe that stepping away from the screen to explore new environments is essential for mental clarity and physical vitality.

Please use a real email you check. If it's fake or mistyped, your message won't reach us and we can't reply — wrong addresses are rejected automatically.