Find the right dual-fuel grill to blend the smoky flavor of charcoal with the convenience of gas. The following picks offer combinations of gas burners, charcoal grilling areas, side burners, and optional smokers, all designed for American backyards and patios. Read on for concise product highlights, practical considerations, and buying tips to compare options side-by-side.
| Product | Fuel Type | Cooking Area (sq in) | Key Feature | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo (ZH3005Y-SC) | Gas + Charcoal | 1020 | Offset smoker and side burner | Grills House |
| Captiva Designs Propane Gas & Charcoal Combo | Gas + Charcoal | 690 | Independently controlled grills | Captiva Designs |
| 3 Burner Propane Gas & Charcoal Combo (GREEN PARTY) | Gas + Charcoal | 685 | Heat control with adjustable charcoal pan | GREEN PARTY |
| Brand-Man Propane Gas & Charcoal Combo | Gas + Charcoal | 678 | Grate & Griddle with dual fuel zones | BRANDMAN GRILLS |
| Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner (E5030) | Gas + Charcoal | 870 | Large total cooking area, easy ash dump | Char-Griller |
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill
Grills House combines charcoal flavor with reliable gas grilling in one compact unit. The 1020 sq. in. cooking area includes primary zones, warming space, and an offset smoker. A side burner adds versatility for sauces or sides, while the offset smoker delivers smoky depth. The dual-fuel design is suitable for gatherings needing both quick weeknight meals and slow-smoked favorites.
Captiva Designs Propane Gas & Charcoal Combo
This combo grill blends separate gas and charcoal areas under one roof, with independently controlled sections for versatile cooking. A substantial 690 sq in total area and a porcelain-enameled cast-iron grate ensure durability and even heat distribution, while a long cooking counter provides space for prep and serving during backyard gatherings.
3 Burner Propane Gas & Charcoal Combo (GREEN PARTY)
GREEN PARTY’s 3-burner model provides a balanced dual-fuel experience with a roomy 685 sq in cooking area. A height-adjustable charcoal pan and multiple burners enable precise temperature control. The design supports searing on the gas side and slow-cooking on the charcoal side, making it suitable for diverse menus and gatherings.
Brand-Man Propane Gas & Charcoal Combo
Brand-Man offers extensive cooking space with both cast-iron grilling surfaces and a warming rack. The dual-fuel configuration supports large gatherings, with independently controlled zones to tailor heat for different dishes. The 678 sq in area is well-suited for entertaining and meal prep.
Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner (E5030)
Char-Griller’s E5030 offers a sizable 870 sq in total cooking area with a primary zone and an easy-dump ash pan. The dual-function design combines gas and charcoal capabilities in a compact footprint, making it a practical choice for versatile weekend cookouts and larger gatherings alike.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Dual-Fuel Grills
When choosing a gas/charcoal combo grill, consider these factors to align with your cooking style and space:
- Cooking area and layout: Look for clearly defined primary charcoal and gas zones, plus a warming rack or secondary area. More total space supports larger crowds but requires more patio footprint.
- Fuel management: Dual-fuel grills vary in how independently you can control each side. Independent zone controls offer versatility for multi-zone cooking and keeping certain foods warm while others finish.
- Offset smoker vs. integrated smoker: An offset smoker adds smoky depth but can require more attention for airflow. Integrated smokers are convenient for beginners but may limit flavor customization.
- Grate material and durability: Porcelain-enameled cast iron and heavy-duty steel resist rust and retain heat well. Nonstick coatings can ease cleanup but may wear with heavy use.
- Ease of ash and grease management: Ash pans, grease trays, and vent placement impact cleanup time and fire safety. Consider models with accessible ash dumps and drip trays.
- Portability and assembly: Some dual-fuel grills are large and heavy; plan for sufficient outdoor space and consider models with clear assembly instructions.
- Price-to-feature balance: Higher-end models offer more control and durability, but mid-range options still provide robust dual-fuel capabilities for typical weekend cooks.
These considerations help compare models based on how you entertain, your climate, and how much time you want to devote to grilling each week. Dual-fuel options are ideal for cooks who want the flavor of charcoal with the quick heat and convenience of gas, without needing two separate grills.