By Miles SinclairUpdated November 2026
Shoppers searching for the best charcoal gas grill usually want one cooking surface that handles both quick weeknight burgers and slow, smoky weekend cooks. A dual-fuel combo grill answers that need, but the options vary widely in burner output, cooking area, smoker capability and build quality. This list weighs fuel flexibility, cooking space, grate material, burner count and the practical extras owners tend to mention, such as side burners and ash management, to help you pick the right combo for your backyard.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallDual Fuel & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU ZH3005Y 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo GrillView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for small patiosChar-Griller® Dual-Function 2-Burner 24,000 BTU Propane Gas and CharcoView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for large gatheringsCaptiva Designs Charcoal and Gas Grill Combo, 690 SQIN Dual Fuel Propane BBQView on Amazon - 4
Best for offset smokingPARGRILL Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner,View on Amazon - 5
Best for griddle cookingDual Fuel, Cast Iron Grates, Griddle Pan and Charcoal Trays Included,View on Amazon - 6
Best budget pickOklahoma Joe's Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas and CharcoaView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Dual Fuel & Side Burner ZH3005Y 2-Burner Combo | Overall balance of gas and charcoal | 34,000 BTU with 1,020 sq. in. cooking area |
| Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function Combo | Small patios | 870 sq. in. cooking space with smoker function |
| Captiva Designs 690 SQIN Dual Fuel Combo | Large gatherings | Side burner and pull-out ash trays |
| PARGRILL Dual Fuel Combo with Offset Smoker | Offset smoking | 30,000 BTU with adjustable charcoal pan |
| 4-Burner 3-in-1 Propane Gas Grill, 49,000 BTU | Griddle cooking | Griddle pan and charcoal trays included |
| Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel | Budget-minded buyers | 1,031 sq. in. cooking area |
Dual Fuel & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU ZH3005Y 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill
Dual Fuel & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Porcelain-Enameled Finish, Backyard BBQ & Camping, Black ZH3005Y 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill
Best for: Overall balance of gas and charcoal
This is a good fit for cooks who want fast gas starts on weeknights and the option to switch to charcoal for weekend flavor. Its large cooking area suits families and small gatherings.
Key specs
- 34,000 BTU total burner output
- 1,020 sq. in. cooking area
- Porcelain-enameled finish
- Side burner included
Pros
- Switches between gas and charcoal without a second grill
- Generous cooking area for a combo unit
- Side burner handles sauces and sides
Cons
- Charcoal side requires more cleanup than gas alone
- Assembly time can be longer than with simpler gas grills
Bottom line: A strong first choice for households that want both quick gas cooking and occasional charcoal flavor in one footprint.
Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner 24,000 BTU Propane Gas and Charcoal Combination Grill and Smoker, Model E5030
Char-Griller® Dual-Function 2-Burner 24,000 BTU Propane Gas and Charcoal Combination Grill and Smoker with 870 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model E5030
Best for: Small patios
Suited to apartment balconies and compact patios where a full-size combo would crowd the space. It offers both grilling and smoking functions in a modest footprint.
Key specs
- 24,000 BTU propane burners
- 870 sq. in. cooking area
- Dual-function gas and charcoal design with smoker capability
Pros
- Compact enough for smaller outdoor spaces
- Smoker function adds versatility
- Two burners give reasonable heat control
Cons
- Lower total BTU than the larger combos on this list
- Limited space for big batches
Bottom line: A practical pick for small patios where space and versatility matter more than maximum capacity.
Captiva Designs Charcoal and Gas Grill Combo, 690 SQIN Dual Fuel Propane BBQ
Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grates, Side Burner, Easy-Clean Pull-Out Trays. Perfect for Outdoor Events & Backyard Barbecue Captiva Designs Charcoal and Gas Grill Combo,690 SQIN Dual Fuel Propane BBQ
Best for: Large gatherings
Works well for cooks hosting backyard parties who want a side burner and easy-to-empty ash trays for steady cleanup between batches.
Key specs
- 690 sq. in. cooking area
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates
- Side burner included
- Pull-out cleanup trays
Pros
- Cast iron grates hold heat well for searing
- Pull-out trays simplify ash removal
- Side burner is handy for sauces and sides
Cons
- Cooking area is smaller than the larger combos here
- Owners often report that the lid seal needs periodic checking
Bottom line: Best for hosts who want easy cleanup and cast iron searing in a mid-size combo.
PARGRILL Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker and Side Burner, 30,000 BTU Dual Fuel BBQ Grill
PARGRILL Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 30,000 BTU Dual Fuel BBQ Grill with 2-Level Adjustable Charcoal Pan, Dual Thermometers, 6" Wheels, Outdoor Patio Backyard Grilling
Best for: Offset smoking
Designed for cooks who want a dedicated offset smoker attached to a gas and charcoal grill, with two thermometers to track temperatures on each side.
Key specs
- 30,000 BTU dual fuel burners
- Offset smoker chamber
- Two-level adjustable charcoal pan
- Dual thermometers and 6-inch wheels
Pros
- Offset smoker adds real smoking capacity
- Adjustable charcoal pan helps with heat zones
- Dual thermometers aid temperature tracking
Cons
- Offset designs need more attention to fire management
- Heavier to move, even with wheels
Bottom line: A good match for barbecue fans who want offset smoking built into a gas-and-charcoal setup.
4-Burner 3-in-1 Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner, Griddle Pan and Charcoal Trays, 49,000 BTU
Dual Fuel, Cast Iron Grates, Griddle Pan and Charcoal Trays Included, Double-Wall Insulated Lid, All-Terrain 6-inch Wheels 4-Burner 3-in-1 Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner, 49,000 BTU
Best for: Griddle cooking
A strong option for cooks who want to make breakfast on a flat top, sear on grates and use charcoal trays for flavor, all from one unit.
Key specs
- 49,000 BTU across four burners
- Cast iron grates
- Griddle pan and charcoal trays included
- Double-wall insulated lid and 6-inch all-terrain wheels
Pros
- Highest BTU rating on this list
- Griddle pan adds a second cooking style
- Insulated lid helps hold heat
Cons
- Large footprint for smaller decks
- Griddle and charcoal accessories add storage and cleaning steps
Bottom line: Best for cooks who want maximum output and griddle versatility on a spacious patio.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Smoker and Grill, Black
Oklahoma Joe's Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Smoker and Grill with 1031 sq. in. Cooking Area in Black
Best for: Budget-minded buyers
Fits shoppers who want a dual-fuel grill with a large cooking area and smoker capability without stepping up to premium pricing tiers.
Key specs
- 1,031 sq. in. cooking area
- Three gas burners
- Combined gas and charcoal cooking with smoker function
Pros
- Large cooking area for the category
- Three burners give zone control
- Smoker function adds versatility
Cons
- Owners often mention that assembly takes careful attention
- Build finish may show wear sooner with heavy outdoor exposure
Bottom line: A solid value-oriented choice for cooks who want a big cooking surface and dual-fuel flexibility.
Buying Guide
Fuel Type and Switching Convenience
Decide how often you will cook on gas versus charcoal. Gas handles weeknight cooks with fast startup and steady heat, while charcoal delivers smoke and a stronger crust. Check whether the grill switches fuels cleanly or requires separate setup. If you mostly cook one way, a single-fuel grill may serve you better.
Good picks for this: Dual Fuel & Side Burner ZH3005Y and Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo
Burner Output and BTU Rating
BTU numbers indicate maximum gas output, but they are not the only measure of performance. Two burners with good distribution can outperform a poorly designed four-burner unit. Look for consistent heat across the grate and burners you can adjust independently for indirect cooking.
Good picks for this: 4-Burner 3-in-1 Propane Gas Grill and PARGRILL Dual Fuel Combo
Cooking Area and Fit
Measure your patio or deck before buying. Cooking area is listed in square inches, and a larger number suits crowds but needs more clearance. Allow space for the lid to open fully and for side shelves. Compact combos suit balconies, while larger units suit backyards with room to spare.
Good picks for this: Char-Griller E5030 and Captiva Designs 690 SQIN Combo
Smoker Capability
If barbecue is your main goal, check whether the smoker is a true offset chamber or a basic built-in box. Offset smokers offer more capacity and a classic smoke profile but require steady fire management. Confirm that the firebox or charcoal pan is easy to access during long cooks.
Good picks for this: PARGRILL Dual Fuel Combo with Offset Smoker and Char-Griller E5030
Grate Material and Searing
Cast iron and porcelain-enameled cast iron grates retain heat well and sear meat effectively. Thin steel grates heat quickly but can lose temperature when lid-opening is frequent. Look for grates that are easy to scrub and that hold seasoning over time.
Good picks for this: Captiva Designs Combo and Dual Fuel & Side Burner ZH3005Y
Ash Management and Cleanup
Charcoal produces ash that must be removed regularly. Pull-out ash trays and accessible charcoal pans make cleanup faster and reduce the chance of ash buildup near burners. Owners often report that cleanup time is the factor they underestimate most before buying a combo.
Good picks for this: Captiva Designs Combo and Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo
Durability and Weather Protection
Outdoor grills face rain, sun and temperature swings. Porcelain-enameled surfaces resist rust better than bare steel, and a fitted cover extends life. Check the lid and firebox construction, and plan to store the grill under cover or a weatherproof cover when not in use.
Good picks for this: 4-Burner 3-in-1 Propane Gas Grill and Dual Fuel & Side Burner ZH3005Y
FAQ
What does a dual-fuel charcoal gas grill combo mean?
A dual-fuel combo has both a gas burner system and a charcoal chamber in one unit. You choose which fuel to use for each cook, though some models let you use both at once for direct and indirect zones.
Is a combo grill as good as a dedicated gas or charcoal grill?
A combo trades some specialization for flexibility. Dedicated charcoal grills often produce more smoke flavor, and dedicated gas grills start faster. A good combo covers most needs for households that cook both ways.
How do I clean a combo grill after using charcoal?
Let the ash cool completely, then empty it into a metal container with a lid. Scrape grates while warm, and wipe down the gas burners and tubes periodically to prevent blockages. The guide on how to clean a grill step by step covers gas, charcoal and pellet models.
Which fuel should I choose for everyday cooking?
Gas is usually the faster choice for weeknight meals because it heats quickly and holds steady temperatures with minimal attention. Charcoal suits weekend cooks who want smoke flavor and are willing to manage a fire. For a deeper comparison, see Charcoal vs Gas Grills: Flavor, Convenience, Cost and Safety.
Do I need a cover for a combo grill?
Yes. A fitted cover protects burners, grates and control knobs from rain and sun. Store the grill fully cool and dry before covering to prevent rust.
How much cooking space do I need?
For two to four people, a grill in the 600 to 800 square inch range is usually enough. For regular hosting, look at units above 1,000 square inches. Remember that usable space can be less than the listed figure once you account for warming racks and side shelves.
Can I use a propane tank with these combo grills?
Most listed combos run on standard propane cylinders. Confirm the fuel requirements in the manufacturer’s manual before connecting, and check hoses for leaks with soapy water before each season.
Conclusion
For a balanced all-round option, the Dual Fuel & Side Burner ZH3005Y suits most households. Small patios call for the Char-Griller E5030, while hosts who entertain often will appreciate the Captiva Designs combo’s cleanup features. Barbecue enthusiasts who want offset smoking should look at the PARGRILL combo, and cooks who value griddle versatility will find the 4-Burner 3-in-1 unit a strong match. The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo rounds out the list for shoppers who want a large cooking area on a tighter budget. Match the fuel type, cooking area and smoker design to how you actually cook, and the right best charcoal gas grill for your yard will be clear.
Sources
- Guidance on safe outdoor cooking equipment use and gas appliance basics (energy.gov)
- Consumer safety recalls and grill fire prevention advisories (cpsc.gov)
- Safe internal temperatures and food handling for grilled meats (usda.gov)
Related reading
- Types of BBQ Grills: Charcoal, Gas, Pellet and Electric Explained
- How to Clean a Grill: Gas, Charcoal and Pellet Step by Step
- Charcoal vs Gas Grills: Flavor, Convenience, Cost and Safety
About Miles Sinclair
Miles Sinclair is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our BBQ & grilling guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
