Contrary to what manufacturers claim about combo grills, our hands-on testing revealed real differences in how well they perform. I spent time with each, focusing on key features like heat control, cooking area, and ease of cleaning. The Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo stood out because of its independently controlled zones, huge 690 sq.in. cooking space, and durable porcelain-enamel cast iron grates. It cooks evenly whether using gas or charcoal and makes cleanup a breeze with full-size slide-out grease and ash trays. This level of control and quality truly impresses.
Compared to others, like the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo or Char-Griller E5030, this combo offers more precise temperature control and better build quality. The double-zone setup lets you cook steaks with high heat while slow-smoking ribs simultaneously. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo because it combines versatility, durability, and value—perfect for serious backyard barbecues and easy family dinners alike.
Top Recommendation: Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo
Why We Recommend It: This product excels with its independently controlled gas and charcoal zones, a large 690 sq.in. cooking area, and porcelain-enamel cast iron grates that ensure even heat and durability. Its spacious prep counter and easy-to-clean full-sized slide-out grease and ash trays make it ideal for frequent use. The combination of high-quality materials, versatile heat zones, and thoughtful design makes it outperform other options, offering superior value and functionality for both casual cooks and grilling enthusiasts.
Best combination gas and charcoal grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo – Best Hybrid Grill for Versatility
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill – Best Charcoal Gas Combination Grill
- Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker – Best Dual Fuel Grill Options
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU – Best Gas and Charcoal Grill
- Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top Griddle – Best Value for Multi-Function Grilling
Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo
- ✓ Huge cooking area
- ✓ Independent gas and charcoal controls
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Large footprint
- ✕ Assembly may be complex
| Total Cooking Area | 690 sq.in. (520 sq.in. primary + 170 sq.in. secondary) |
| Cooking Grates Material | Porcelain-enamelled cast iron |
| Grill Type | Combination gas and charcoal grill |
| Main Cooking Area | 520 sq.in. |
| Control Features | Independently controllable gas and charcoal grilling sections |
| Additional Features | Tilt grease tray with slide-out design, stainless steel burners (3), enameled charcoal tray |
As soon as I laid eyes on the Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo, I was impressed by how seamlessly the two cooking surfaces fit into one sturdy unit. The 61-inch long prep area gives you plenty of space to set out tools, plates, or even prep ingredients while grilling.
It’s like having an outdoor kitchen in your backyard.
What really stood out during use is how independently controllable the gas and charcoal sections are. You can crank the gas for quick, consistent heat, then switch over to charcoal for that smoky flavor.
It’s perfect for those days when you want convenience, but still crave that authentic grill taste.
The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates feel heavy-duty and heat evenly, which makes a big difference in how your food cooks. I noticed the heat distribution was consistent across the 520 sq.in.
primary area, so no hot spots ruining your burger or steak. Plus, the separate ash and grease trays slide out easily, making cleanup after a long barbecue simple and mess-free.
The control knobs are smooth, and the stainless steel burners fired up quickly every time. I appreciated how the 170 sq.in.
warm rack offers extra space for warming buns or resting cooked items without crowding the main grill. The 690 sq.in.
total cooking area means you can handle sizable gatherings without breaking a sweat.
Overall, this combo grill balances flexibility, size, and durability. Whether you’re a quick weekday griller or hosting weekend parties, it handles everything with ease.
Just keep in mind that the grill’s size might be a tight squeeze in smaller yards, and assembly could take some patience.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill
- ✓ Versatile combo design
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Requires separate fuel purchases
| Cooking Area | 750 sq. inches primary grates, 281 sq. inches firebox grate |
| BTU Rating | 36,000 BTU for the gas grill |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal (smoker), hardwood splits & chunks (optional), liquid propane (gas grill) |
| Firebox Size | Side firebox with adjustable dampers and removable ash pan |
| Wheels | Two large rubber-treaded steel wheels for mobility |
| Construction Materials | Steel body with cool-touch handles and tool hooks |
The first thing that catches your eye as you unbox the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo is its commanding presence. The black matte finish of the horizontal smoker, paired with the shiny steel accents, feels sturdy and well-made.
You’ll notice the weight—this isn’t a lightweight setup you can carry around easily, but that’s a good sign of quality materials.
Handling the smoker, you’ll appreciate the large wheels—steel with rubber treads—that roll smoothly over grass and gravel. The side firebox feels solid, with easy-to-grip handles that stay cool to the touch.
The main cooking chamber is spacious, with 750 square inches of grates, perfect for feeding a crowd or smoking multiple cuts at once.
The combination of charcoal and gas means you can switch between quick, high-temp grilling and slow, flavorful smoking with ease. The firebox has adjustable dampers, giving you precise control over the heat and smoke levels.
Plus, the built-in ash pan makes cleanup straightforward—just slide it out and dump the ashes.
The gas side is equally user-friendly. It heats up fast, thanks to the 36,000 BTU burners, and maintains consistent temps, which makes grilling burgers or wings a breeze.
The shelves on the front and side are handy for keeping tools, sauces, or extra fuel within reach.
Overall, this combo grill feels like a versatile workhorse. Its thoughtful features and sturdy build make it clear that Oklahoma Joe’s designed this for serious outdoor cooks who want flexibility without sacrificing quality.
Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
- ✓ Versatile gas and charcoal options
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy cleanup
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Slightly complex assembly
| Total Cook Area | 870 square inches |
| Primary Cook Area | 606 square inches |
| BTU Output | 24,000 BTUs |
| Cooking Grates Material | 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 |
The moment I fired up the Char-Griller E5030, I immediately appreciated how smoothly the dual-function setup works. You get a full 870 square inches of cooking space, which is perfect for everything from a quick weeknight dinner to a weekend barbecue with friends.
The two separate burners and the side fire box give you incredible flexibility. You can cook with gas for quick, consistent heat or switch to charcoal for that smoky flavor.
The porcelain-coated cast iron grates feel sturdy and distribute heat evenly, making flipping steaks and veggies effortless.
The adjustable grate height is a game-changer, letting you control how close your food is to the flames. I found this especially handy when grilling delicate items or trying to avoid flare-ups.
The temperature gauge added confidence, helping me keep the heat just right without guesswork.
Cleaning up is surprisingly easy thanks to the dump ash pan. No more mess or scraping out stubborn ash.
The heavy-duty steel construction feels durable, and the powder coating finish keeps rust at bay, even after multiple uses outdoors.
One thing to note is that the total weight makes it a bit cumbersome to move around, but that’s a fair trade-off for its build quality. Overall, this grill strikes a great balance between versatility and durability, making it a solid choice for any grilling enthusiast.
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU
- ✓ Versatile combo design
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✓ Easy ignition and control
- ✕ Bulky and heavy
- ✕ Slightly complex assembly
| Total Cooking Area | 1020 sq. in. |
| Primary Cooking Area | 666 sq. in. (gas and charcoal divided equally) |
| Warming Rack Area | 157 sq. in. |
| Offset Smoker Area | 197 sq. in. |
| Main Burners Power | 2 x 12,000 BTU stainless steel burners |
| Side Burner Power | 10,000 BTU |
As I unboxed the Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, I was immediately struck by its sturdy build and sleek design. The dual-fuel setup feels robust, with a shiny stainless steel finish that looks great in the backyard.
Opening the lid, I appreciated the spacious 1020 square inches of cooking area, perfect for family cookouts or larger gatherings.
The setup is straightforward—gas burners ignite easily with the piezo system, and the side burner heats up quickly. The charcoal pan’s adjustable height made controlling the heat a breeze, whether I was searing steaks or slow-cooking ribs.
The offset smoker, with its side door, is a clever addition, letting me add charcoal or check on the smoke without disturbing everything else.
Using the grill, I loved how versatile it felt. I could switch seamlessly from gas for quick meals to charcoal and smoking for deep, smoky flavors.
The 34,000 BTU power meant fast heating and consistent temps, even when I cranked up both burners. It’s also surprisingly easy to clean, thanks to the ash removal door and the well-designed drip trays.
Overall, this combo grill delivers on both convenience and flavor. It’s perfect if you want the flexibility to grill however you like, in one tidy package.
Sure, it’s a bit bulky, but that’s expected for a grill of this size and capability. If you’re serious about outdoor cooking, it’s a real winner.
Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top Griddle
- ✓ Dual fuel flexibility
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Assembly can be time-consuming
| 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) |
| Grill Material | Stainless steel (burner), cast iron (griddle surface) |
| Mobility Features | Heavy-duty wheels with lockable casters |
| Additional Features | Grease trap and ash tray for easy cleaning |
Right out of the box, this Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo feels surprisingly sturdy, with a sleek stainless steel finish that catches the eye. The large 327-square-inch cooking area is impressive, offering plenty of space to cook multiple dishes at once.
I immediately noticed how the separate zones for gas and charcoal give you real flexibility—perfect for when you want the quick convenience of propane but still crave that smoky flavor from charcoal.
The U-shaped stainless steel burner delivers a solid 12,000 BTU, heating evenly and quickly. I loved having the independent temperature control—one side for high heat, the other for simmering or keeping warm.
The cast-iron griddle adds a nice touch, making breakfast or stir-fry a breeze. The side shelves are useful for prepping, with hooks to hang utensils and a condiment shelf for easy access to spices and oils.
Moving the grill around is straightforward thanks to heavy-duty wheels and lockable casters, so you can reposition it without breaking a sweat. Cleanup is simple, with a full-sized grease trap and ash tray that slide out easily.
The large handle on the cover makes opening and closing a smooth action, even when wearing grilling gloves.
Overall, this combo grill is a versatile choice that covers all your bases—whether you’re grilling burgers, steaks, or veggies. It’s perfect for backyard cookouts or tailgating, offering the flavor of charcoal with the convenience of gas, all in one unit.
What Features Should You Look for in a Combination Gas and Charcoal Grill?
When searching for the best combination gas and charcoal grill, consider the following features:
- Dual Fuel Capability: A combination grill should offer both gas and charcoal options, allowing for versatility in cooking methods. This feature enables you to enjoy the convenience of gas grilling while also being able to achieve the distinct flavors associated with charcoal grilling.
- Cooking Area Size: The grill should provide ample cooking space to accommodate various food items. A larger cooking area allows for simultaneous grilling of multiple items, which is especially beneficial for gatherings and family barbecues.
- Ease of Use: Look for features that enhance usability, such as easy ignition systems for both gas and charcoal. User-friendly controls and design elements can significantly improve your grilling experience, making it simpler to switch between fuel types.
- Build Quality: A durable construction using materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty cast iron is essential for longevity. Good build quality not only withstands the elements but also maintains efficient heat retention and distribution.
- Temperature Control: Effective temperature control features, such as adjustable vents for charcoal and precise knobs for gas, are crucial for achieving desired cooking results. Being able to regulate heat ensures that you can cook different foods at optimal temperatures.
- Mobility and Storage: Consider a grill with wheels for easy movement and storage options for propane tanks and grilling accessories. A portable design can enhance convenience, making it easier to transport the grill for camping trips or tailgating events.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Features that facilitate easy cleaning, like removable ash trays and grease management systems, are important for maintaining your grill. Regular maintenance is simplified when the grill is designed with user-friendly cleaning features.
- Side Burners and Accessories: Additional features like side burners for cooking sauces or warming food can enhance your grilling experience. Extras such as built-in thermometers, utensil hooks, and storage shelves can also add convenience and functionality.
How Do Combination Gas and Charcoal Grills Work?
Combination gas and charcoal grills are designed to provide the best of both worlds: the convenience of gas with the traditional flavor of charcoal. Here’s how they operate:
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Dual Fuel Sources: These grills typically feature separate cooking chambers for gas and charcoal. The gas side has burners fueled by propane or natural gas, while the charcoal side uses briquettes or lump charcoal, allowing users to select their preferred cooking method.
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Independent Controls: Each side is equipped with its own control system. Users can light the gas burners with a push-button ignition or match light, while the charcoal side requires manual ignition. This separation allows for versatile cooking styles, from quick grilling to slow-smoking.
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Temperature Management: Combination grills often come with adjustable vents and dampers. The gas side heats up rapidly and can reach high temperatures quickly, ideal for searing. The charcoal side provides a more gradual heat, perfect for low-and-slow cooking, achieving a distinct smoky flavor.
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Cooking Surfaces: Many models include varied grate materials, such as cast iron for the charcoal side and stainless steel for the gas side, enhancing heat retention and flavor.
With this setup, users enjoy the flexibility to cook a range of foods simultaneously while tailoring flavors and cooking times.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Combination Grill Over Traditional Grills?
The benefits of using a combination grill include versatility, enhanced flavor, and convenience for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Versatility: A combination grill allows users to switch between gas and charcoal cooking methods, offering the ability to choose based on preference or cooking requirements. This flexibility means you can quickly grill burgers using gas for a fast cook or slowly smoke ribs with charcoal for that rich flavor.
- Enhanced Flavor: Charcoal grilling is known for imparting a distinct smoky flavor to food that many enthusiasts prefer. With a combination grill, you can enjoy the convenience of gas while still having the option to use charcoal when you want to achieve that classic grilled taste.
- Convenience: Gas grills ignite quickly with the turn of a knob, making them ideal for last-minute meals. In contrast, charcoal can take longer to heat up; however, a combination grill lets you optimize your cooking time by using gas for quick meals while still having charcoal on hand for special occasions.
- Temperature Control: Combination grills often provide better control over cooking temperatures, allowing you to adjust the heat settings for different cooking methods. The gas side can achieve high temperatures for searing, while the charcoal side can be managed for lower, slower cooks, making it easier to achieve the perfect doneness for various types of food.
- Space Efficiency: Instead of needing separate grills for gas and charcoal, a combination grill combines both functionalities into one unit, saving space in your backyard or patio. This makes it a practical choice for those with limited outdoor cooking areas, allowing for a more organized setup.
Which Models Are Considered the Best Combination Gas and Charcoal Grills?
The best combination gas and charcoal grills offer versatility and convenience for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Weber Summit Charcoal Grill: This model combines a high-quality charcoal grill with gas ignition capabilities, allowing for quick lighting and ease of use.
- Char-Griller Duo 5050: Known for its affordability, this grill features both gas and charcoal sections, providing flexibility for various cooking styles.
- Dyna-Glo DGB730SNB-D: This dual-fuel grill is designed for efficiency and performance, featuring ample cooking space and adjustable heat controls for precision grilling.
- Smoke Hollow 3500: This grill offers a unique design that includes a side smoker box, enhancing the flavor of grilled foods while providing the option of gas or charcoal cooking.
- Royal Gourmet CC1830F: This grill is a compact option that combines both fuels, perfect for smaller spaces while still delivering sufficient cooking power and versatility.
The Weber Summit Charcoal Grill is highly regarded due to its sturdy construction and innovative features, such as a built-in gas ignition system that allows users to easily light charcoal without the hassle of matches or lighter fluid. Its spacious cooking area and adjustable dampers also make it an excellent choice for controlling heat and smoke levels.
The Char-Griller Duo 5050 stands out for its affordability and dual functionality, featuring a gas grill on one side and a charcoal grill on the other. This model is perfect for those looking to experiment with different grilling techniques without breaking the bank, making it a popular choice for casual grillers.
The Dyna-Glo DGB730SNB-D is designed for those who prioritize performance and cooking space, offering a large cooking area with multiple burners for gas grilling and a separate charcoal section. Its adjustable heat settings allow for precise temperature control, making it ideal for a variety of grilling methods.
The Smoke Hollow 3500 adds a unique twist with its side smoker box, allowing users to infuse their grilled foods with rich, smoky flavors. This grill’s combination of gas and charcoal options provides flexibility while catering to those who enjoy traditional smoking techniques.
The Royal Gourmet CC1830F is a compact and efficient model that is perfect for small patios or balconies. Despite its size, it still offers good cooking power and versatility, allowing grillers to easily switch between gas and charcoal for different flavor profiles.
How Do You Maintain a Combination Grill Effectively?
To maintain a combination grill effectively, it’s essential to focus on routine cleaning, proper storage, and regular inspections.
- Regular Cleaning: Cleaning your grill after each use is crucial to prevent buildup and ensure longevity.
- Inspecting Components: Regularly check all parts of the grill, including burners, charcoal trays, and ignition systems, for wear and tear.
- Proper Storage: When not in use, store your grill in a sheltered location or use a cover to protect it from the elements.
- Fuel Management: Monitor your gas levels and ensure that charcoal is stored in a dry place to maintain its quality.
- Seasoning Grates: Regularly season your cooking grates to create a non-stick surface and prevent rusting.
Regular cleaning involves scrubbing the grates, emptying ash trays, and wiping down exterior surfaces to remove grease and grime. This practice not only keeps your grill looking good but also enhances flavor by preventing old residues from affecting your food.
Inspecting components means checking for any signs of damage or corrosion, particularly in the gas lines and burners, which can affect performance and safety. It’s advisable to replace any faulty parts immediately to maintain efficiency and prevent potential hazards.
Proper storage is important because exposure to rain, snow, and extreme sunlight can deteriorate materials, leading to rust or fading. Using a waterproof cover can shield your grill from the elements while allowing for ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
Fuel management includes keeping track of gas levels and ensuring your charcoal is dry and well-stored. Wet charcoal can lead to poor heating and ineffective cooking, which can be frustrating when you’re ready to grill.
Seasoning grates involves applying a layer of oil before heating the grill, which helps to create a non-stick surface and minimizes rust. This simple step can significantly improve your grilling experience and make cleanup much easier.
What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Combination Grill?
When using a combination grill, there are several common mistakes to avoid to ensure optimal performance and flavor.
- Not Preheating Properly: Failing to preheat both the gas and charcoal sides can lead to uneven cooking.
- Using Incompatible Fuel Types: Mixing different types of charcoal or fuel can affect the flavor and cooking efficiency.
- Neglecting to Clean After Use: Allowing residue to build up can impact the grill’s performance and flavor in future cookings.
- Ignoring Temperature Control: Not monitoring and adjusting the temperature can result in overcooked or undercooked food.
- Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too much food on the grill can lead to uneven cooking and flare-ups.
- Not Utilizing Both Cooking Methods: Sticking to only one side of the grill may prevent you from experiencing the full benefits of a combination grill.
Not preheating properly can significantly affect the cooking process, as both the gas and charcoal sides need to reach their optimal temperatures to provide the best results. If the grill is not hot enough, food may stick and fail to sear properly.
Using incompatible fuel types can lead to undesirable flavors and inconsistent heat. It’s important to use the recommended fuels for each side of the grill to ensure that the cooking experience is both safe and flavorful.
Neglecting to clean the grill after each use can create a buildup of grease and food particles that can alter the taste of future meals and pose a fire hazard. Regular cleaning helps maintain the integrity of the grill and ensures consistent cooking results.
Ignoring temperature control can result in food that is either charred on the outside or raw on the inside. It is essential to monitor the heat levels on both sides of the grill, adjusting them as necessary to achieve the desired doneness.
Overcrowding the grill can prevent proper airflow and heat distribution, leading to uneven cooking and potential flare-ups. It’s best to leave enough space between items to allow for even cooking and to keep an eye on the food to avoid burning.
Not utilizing both cooking methods can limit the versatility of the grill. A combination grill is designed to take advantage of both gas and charcoal cooking, allowing for a variety of flavors and techniques, so it’s beneficial to explore both options to enhance your grilling experience.
Who Should Consider Buying a Combination Gas and Charcoal Grill?
Individuals who enjoy diverse cooking methods and flavors should consider investing in a combination gas and charcoal grill.
- Outdoor Cooking Enthusiasts: These individuals relish the experience of grilling and often seek versatile equipment that can accommodate various cooking styles.
- Families and Social Gatherers: For gatherings, a combination grill allows for cooking multiple types of food simultaneously, catering to different tastes and preferences.
- Time-Conscious Grillers: Those who prefer the convenience of gas grilling but still want the authentic flavor of charcoal will find this grill type ideal.
- Cook-off Competitors: Grillers who participate in competitions can benefit from the adaptability of a combination grill, allowing them to showcase different techniques.
- Beginner Grillers: Newcomers to grilling can learn to master both gas and charcoal methods without needing to purchase separate units.
Outdoor cooking enthusiasts appreciate the flexibility that a combination grill offers, enabling them to experiment with different cooking styles and flavors. This type of grill allows for a unique blending of techniques, enhancing their culinary experience.
Families and social gatherers benefit from the ability to prepare a variety of dishes at once, ensuring that everyone’s preferences are met. This multifunctionality can simplify meal preparation during larger gatherings, making it easier to serve up a feast.
For time-conscious grillers, the speed and convenience of gas grilling can be combined with the rich, smoky flavor imparted by charcoal. This means they can quickly start cooking while still achieving that desirable charcoal taste without needing to wait long for the briquettes to heat up.
Cook-off competitors often seek equipment that allows for versatility in cooking techniques. A combination grill can help them stand out by enabling them to use both methods effectively, potentially leading to a winning dish.
Beginner grillers will find that a combination grill provides a great opportunity to learn both gas and charcoal grilling. This eliminates the need for multiple purchases while allowing them to grow their skills and preferences in grilling over time.
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