For backyard cooks who want the best of both worlds, dual-fuel grills that combine gas and charcoal offer versatility, flavor, and convenience. This guide highlights five top options that balance performance, reliability, and value for American grilling enthusiasts. Each pick features distinct advantages—whether it’s a built-in offset smoker, porcelain-enamel cast iron grates, or independent fuel zones—so you can choose the best fit for your outdoor cooking style.
| Product | Fuel Type | Primary Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill | Gas & Charcoal | Offset smoker and side burner for versatile cooking |
| Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo | Gas & Charcoal | Independent control with large counter space |
| 3 Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo | Gas & Charcoal | Multiple burners with generous cooking area |
| Brand-Man Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo | Gas & Charcoal | Grate & Griddle versatility for diverse dishes |
| Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill | Gas & Charcoal | Extensive total cooking area with smoker option |
Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill
The Grills House model merges charcoal flavor with gas convenience in a single 1020 sq. in. cooking area. It includes a 333 sq. in. gas zone and a 333 sq. in. charcoal zone, plus a 157 sq. in. warming rack and a 197 sq. in. offset smoker area. An attached offset smoker provides rich smoke while a side burner handles sauces or sides, offering a complete outdoor kitchen in one unit. The side door for adding charcoal and removing ashes simplifies upkeep during long cooks.
Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo
This dual fuel grill offers independent control of its charcoal and gas sections across a total 690 sq.in. cooking area. A 520 sq.in. porcelain-enameled cast iron primary grill plus a 170 sq.in. stainless steel warming rack deliver both searing capability and steady heat. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates promote even heat distribution, while a long cooking counter enhances prep space for gatherings.
3 Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo
This 37,000 BTU dual-fuel grill combines three main gas burners with a charcoal side and a side burner for sauces. Its 685 sq.in. total cooking area includes warming space, with porcelain-enameled cast iron grates delivering durability and even heat. The setup is ideal for cooks who want fast searing on gas while maintaining charcoal flavor on the side, making it a versatile option for backyard barbecues and gatherings.
Brand-Man Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo
Brand-Man combines a 678 sq.in. main cast iron cooking area with a 206 sq.in. warming rack, offering substantial space for large gatherings. The grill pairs a grate with a griddle, allowing you to swap between grill grates and flat-top cooking. Heavy-duty cast iron grates deliver lasting durability and rust resistance while maintaining even heat across zones for versatile meals.
Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grilling System
Char-Griller’s dual-function 2-burner model features a total cooking area of 870 sq.in. with a primary zone of 606 sq.in. and an easy-dump ash pan for cleanup. The integrated smoker option and large cooking surface provide flexibility for family gatherings, from rapid weeknight grilling to weekend barbecues. The model is noted for its straightforward design and robust construction that supports long-term use.
Gas One – Portable 14-Inch Barbecue Grill
Gas One offers a compact 14-inch portable option with a three-point locking lid, designed to preserve heat and enable secure transport. Its dual-venting system promotes steady airflow for consistent temperatures, making it a practical choice for tailgating, camping, or small patios where space is at a premium. This model emphasizes portability without sacrificing essential dual-fuel capabilities.
Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo
This Bestfire unit combines a 327 sq.in. cooking area with a 140 sq.in. grill grid and a 187 sq.in. cast-iron griddle. It supports up to about 20 burgers at once and includes two side shelves and hooks for tools. The dual-fuel design enables a range of cooking styles—from fast searing to slow, smoky finishing—catering to diverse crowd sizes and preferences.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Fuel flexibility: Dual-fuel grills offer gas for speed and charcoal for flavor. Consider how often you’ll use each fuel and whether you value independent zone control.
- Cooking area: Look for total square inches, including primary, warming, and any smoker or offset zones. This impacts how many burgers or racks you can cook at once.
- Grill construction: Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates resist rust and heat evenly, while heavy-duty builds support durability and long-term use.
- Temperature control: Charcoal pans, vents, and gas burners should allow fine-tuning. Independent controls help manage multi-zone cooking for different dishes.
- Ease of maintenance: Features like ash pans, accessible grease management, and simple ash removal reduce clean-up time after cooks.
- Prep and workspace: A generous counter or side shelves improves efficiency when prepping meats, marinades, and sides during events.
- Portability vs. in-place use: Some models emphasize portability for tailgating or camping, while others prioritize fixed patio setups with large cooking areas.
- Overall value: Compare total cooking area, build quality, and additional features like side burners, warming racks, and integrated smokers to determine value for your needs.
When choosing a best gas charcoal grill setup, balance your cooking style with the design features that support it. For families hosting frequent barbecues, larger primary cooking areas and independent charcoal and gas zones can speed up service and expand menu options. For tailgaters and campers, portability and compact design become the priority.