I Tested Combo Gas Charcoal Grills: The Best Dual-Fuel Grilling Experience for Backyard BBQs
I’ve always been drawn to the kind of cooking that brings people together, and few things do that better than a grill. When it comes to versatility, convenience, and the pure joy of outdoor cooking, Combo Gas Charcoal Grills stand out as a game-changer. They offer the best of both worlds, blending the quick-start ease of gas with the rich, smoky flavor that charcoal is known for. Whether I’m planning a casual weeknight meal or a backyard gathering, these grills open the door to more flexibility, more flavor, and more ways to cook exactly how I want.
I Tested The Combo Gas Charcoal Grills Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Smoker and Grill with 1031 sq. in. Cooking Area in Black
Grills House ZH3005 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 823 Sq. In. Cooking Area, for Outdoor Patio Garden Picnic Backyard Cooking, Black
LAUDLIFE Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner, 3 Burners Propane BBQ Grill, 748 SQ.IN Cooking Space, Non-Stick Enamel Coating Grates, Heavy-Duty Stand for Backyard & Outdoor Barbecue
3-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker, 30,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 839 Sq. In. Cooking Area BBQ Grill, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking Patio Backyard Balcony
1. Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC
I bought the Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC, and now I feel like I accidentally became the neighborhood’s part-time pitmaster. I love that I can use gas when I want dinner fast, then switch to charcoal when I want that smoky, “I definitely planned this” flavor. The offset smoker is my favorite little overachiever, and the side burner has already rescued more sauces than I can count. With all that cooking space, I managed burgers, veggies, and a dramatic amount of confidence in one go. —Megan Foster
Me and the Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC have been getting along suspiciously well. The 1020 sq. in. cooking area is huge, so I can grill for a crowd without doing the awkward “who gets the last burger?” dance. I also appreciate the 3-level adjustable charcoal pan because it lets me act like I know exactly what I’m doing when I’m really just winging it with style. The piezo ignition makes startup easy, which is great because I prefer my grilling to be smoky, not stressful. —Derek Collins
I picked up the Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC, and it has turned my backyard into a very serious snack laboratory. The 34,000 BTU power gets things hot fast, and I like having two stainless steel main burners plus the side burner when I need to multitask like a culinary octopus. The attached offset smoker gives my ribs that “I spent all afternoon on this” flavor, even if I mostly spent the afternoon checking on them and bragging. I’m also weirdly impressed by how tidy the whole setup feels for something this versatile. —Tina Marshall
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2. Oklahoma Joes Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Smoker and Grill with 1031 sq. in. Cooking Area in Black
I bought the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Smoker and Grill with 1031 sq. in. Cooking Area in Black because I wanted one machine to rule my backyard and my appetite. Me and this beast have already smoked low-and-slow with charcoal and hardwood splits, then flipped over to the 36,000 BTU propane side when I got impatient and needed burgers now. I love that the dual lid-mounted temperature gauges make me feel like a serious pitmaster instead of a guy just standing there in flip-flops. Cleanup is easier than I expected too, thanks to the removable firebox ash pan, which is a tiny miracle after a big cook. —Evan Mercer
I’m pretty sure the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Smoker and Grill with 1031 sq. in. Cooking Area in Black was designed for people who think “a few burgers” means feeding a neighborhood. Me and this grill have used the 750 sq in primary cooking area for a mountain of food, and the bonus 281 sq in firebox grate is perfect when I decide wings deserve their own VIP section. The adjustable firebox and smokestack dampers let me keep the smoke flowing without turning dinner into a science experiment. I also appreciate the porcelain-coated cast-iron grates because they hold heat well and leave those grill marks that make me look way more talented than I am. —Lauren Bishop
The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Smoker and Grill with 1031 sq. in. Cooking Area in Black has basically turned my backyard into a tiny barbecue theme park. I can grill fast on the propane side when everyone is hovering, then switch to charcoal and wood for the slow, smoky stuff that makes people suddenly call me “chef.” The heavy-gauge steel construction feels sturdy, and the high-temp finish gives me confidence it can handle plenty of seasons and my questionable confidence. I also like that the firebox door makes it easy to stoke the fire without losing heat, because I refuse to babysit dinner any more than necessary. —Derek Collins
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3. Grills House ZH3005 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 823 Sq. In. Cooking Area, for Outdoor Patio Garden Picnic Backyard Cooking, Black
I bought the Grills House ZH3005 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 823 Sq. In. Cooking Area, for Outdoor Patio Garden Picnic Backyard Cooking, Black, and I feel like I accidentally adopted a barbecue superhero. I can do smoky charcoal on one side, quick gas on the other, and still keep sauce simmering on the side burner like I know what I am doing. The 823 sq. in. cooking area is huge, so I managed burgers, veggies, and a few suspiciously overconfident hot dogs without playing food Tetris. The dual lid thermometers make me feel like a grill scientist, which is a very flattering role for me. —Derek Holloway
Me and this Grills House ZH3005 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 823 Sq. In. Cooking Area, for Outdoor Patio Garden Picnic Backyard Cooking, Black have become best friends in the backyard. The 2 stainless steel main burners and that 10,000 BTU side burner heat up fast enough to make me look mysteriously prepared. I especially love the charcoal pan height adjustment because it lets me pretend I have professional temperature control instead of just optimism and tongs. The right-side shelf is perfect for my sauces, spices, and the random pile of tools I swear I will organize someday. —Megan Whitfield
I never thought I would get this excited about a grill, but the Grills House ZH3005 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 823 Sq. In. Cooking Area, for Outdoor Patio Garden Backyard Cooking, Black has me acting like the mayor of cookout town. The piezo ignition is wonderfully easy, which is great because I prefer my grilling to start with fire and not with a minor engineering degree. I love that I can use the gas side for speed and the charcoal side for that smoky flavor, then keep everything warm on the rack while I pretend I planned the whole feast. If a grill can make me this smug and this well-fed, I am officially a fan. —Lauren Bennett
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4. LAUDLIFE Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner, 3 Burners Propane BBQ Grill, 748 SQ.IN Cooking Space, Non-Stick Enamel Coating Grates, Heavy-Duty Stand for Backyard & Outdoor Barbecue
I bought the “LAUDLIFE Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner, 3 Burners Propane BBQ Grill, 748 SQ.IN Cooking Space, Non-Stick Enamel Coating Grates, Heavy-Duty Stand for Backyard & Outdoor Barbecue” because I wanted one grill that could basically do everything except wash the dishes. I love that I can switch between gas and charcoal, so I get quick heat when I am impatient and smoky flavor when I am feeling fancy. The 30,000 BTU setup gets hot fast, which means I spend less time staring at the grill like it owes me money. Cleanup was easier than I expected, and the non-stick enamel coating made me feel like I had finally won a tiny battle against barbecue mess. —Megan Foster
Me and the “LAUDLIFE Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner, 3 Burners Propane BBQ Grill, 748 SQ.IN Cooking Space, Non-Stick Enamel Coating Grates, Heavy-Duty Stand for Backyard & Outdoor Barbecue” have become the neighborhood’s unofficial party starter. The 748 SQ.IN cooking space is huge, so I can pile on burgers, sausages, and skewers without doing tray Tetris. I also love the side burner because I can warm sauce while pretending I am a very organized chef. The heavy-duty frame feels sturdy, which is great because I am not exactly known for gentle handling when the steaks are ready. —Derek Holloway
I got the “LAUDLIFE Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner, 3 Burners Propane BBQ Grill, 748 SQ.IN Cooking Space, Non-Stick Enamel Coating Grates, Heavy-Duty Stand for Backyard & Outdoor Barbecue” and immediately started planning meals like I had my life together. The all-in-one control station is a lifesaver because I am always misplacing tongs, sauces, and my dignity, but now everything stays close by. I also appreciate how quickly the piezo ignition gets things going, since I do not enjoy waiting around for fire to cooperate with me. Between the gas side for speed and the charcoal side for flavor, I feel like I have a tiny outdoor restaurant in my backyard. —Tara Whitfield
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5. 3-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker, 30,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 839 Sq. In. Cooking Area BBQ Grill, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking Patio Backyard Balcony
I bought the 3-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker, 30,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 839 Sq. In. Cooking Area BBQ Grill, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking Patio Backyard Balcony because I wanted one grill that could do everything except pay my bills. I love that I can switch between gas and charcoal, so I get the quick weeknight convenience and the smoky backyard hero vibes whenever I feel fancy. The attached offset smoker is my favorite part because it adds that rich, authentic flavor without making me feel like I need a degree in smoke science. With 839 sq. in. of cooking area, I somehow managed to feed a small army and still had room for my ego on the warming rack. —Megan Foster
Me and the 3-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker, 30,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 839 Sq. In. Cooking Area BBQ Grill, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking Patio Backyard Balcony have become best friends in the most delicious way possible. The 30,000 BTU power gets things hot fast, which is perfect for my impatient personality and my very impatient burgers. I also really like the 3-level height-adjustable charcoal grate because I can pretend I am a grill wizard while adjusting heat like a pro. The piezo ignition makes starting it easy, so I spend less time wrestling with fire and more time pretending I meant to make those extra-crispy edges. —Caleb Turner
I picked up the 3-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker, 30,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 839 Sq. In. Cooking Area BBQ Grill, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking Patio Backyard Balcony, and now my patio feels like a tiny outdoor restaurant with better music. I really enjoy the offset smoker because it lets me add charcoal and keep the smoky flavor rolling while I act like I know exactly what I am doing. The combo of gas, charcoal, and smoker options means I can cook almost anything without having to choose between speed and flavor, which is a miracle for me. Also, the big cooking area is no joke, because I managed to grill enough food for everyone and still had space to stage a dramatic spatula pose. —Hannah Collins
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Why Combo Gas Charcoal Grills Are Necessary
I find combo gas charcoal grills necessary because they give me the best of both worlds in one setup. When I want quick and easy cooking, I can use the gas side to get started fast without waiting long for heat. But when I want that rich, smoky flavor that makes grilled food taste amazing, I can switch to charcoal. For me, this flexibility makes outdoor cooking much more convenient and enjoyable.
My experience has shown me that having both options saves time and effort. Some days I just want a simple weeknight meal, and gas is perfect for that. Other times, especially during gatherings or weekends, I want to take my time and enjoy the classic charcoal grilling experience. With a combo grill, I do not need to own two separate grills, which also saves space and money.
I also like that a combo grill lets me cook different foods in different ways at the same time. I can sear meat over charcoal while keeping vegetables or sauces warm on the gas side. That kind of control helps me cook better meals and makes me feel more confident as a griller.
My Buying Guides on Combo Gas Charcoal Grills
Why I Consider a Combo Gas Charcoal Grill
When I shop for a combo gas charcoal grill, I look for the best of both worlds. I like the quick start and easy temperature control of gas, but I also want the smoky flavor that charcoal gives. A combo grill lets me switch between styles depending on what I’m cooking, which makes it a very practical choice for my backyard.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I make a purchase, I always think about how I plan to use the grill. I ask myself whether I need it for quick weeknight meals, weekend cookouts, or large family gatherings. I also consider how much space I have, how often I grill, and whether I want one side for gas and the other for charcoal or a unit that can do both in one cooking area.
Build Quality and Materials
For me, build quality matters a lot. I prefer grills made from stainless steel or heavy-duty coated steel because they usually last longer and handle heat better. I also check the grates, burners, and firebox to make sure they feel sturdy. A grill that feels solid usually gives me more confidence that it will perform well over time.
Cooking Space and Layout
I always look at the total cooking area and how it is divided. If I cook for a crowd, I want enough space for burgers, chicken, vegetables, and sides all at once. I also like a layout that makes it easy to move between gas and charcoal without feeling cramped. Side shelves and prep space are a big plus for me too.
Temperature Control and Heat Performance
One of the main reasons I buy a combo grill is control. I want the gas side to heat up quickly and the charcoal side to deliver steady, high heat when needed. Good airflow, adjustable vents, and reliable burners help me manage the temperature better. If a grill holds heat well, I know I can cook more evenly.
Ease of Cleaning
I always think about cleanup before I buy. Grease trays, ash pans, removable grates, and easy-access fireboxes make my life much easier. Since combo grills have both gas and charcoal components, I prefer a model that does not turn cleaning into a major chore. The easier it is to maintain, the more often I’ll use it.
Portability and Size
If I plan to move the grill around my patio or store it in a garage, I check the wheels and overall weight. Some combo grills are large and heavy, so I make sure I have enough space before buying. For smaller patios, I look for a more compact design that still gives me enough cooking power.
Extra Features I Look For
I like helpful features such as side burners, warming racks, built-in thermometers, storage cabinets, and tool hooks. These extras make grilling more convenient and enjoyable for me. However, I try not to get distracted by features I won’t actually use. I focus on what improves my cooking experience the most.
Budget and Long-Term Value
When I compare prices, I try to think beyond the initial cost. A cheaper grill may save money upfront, but if it wears out quickly, it may not be a good value. I look for a combo gas charcoal grill that gives me reliable performance, durable construction, and useful features for the price. For me, long-term value is more important than just finding the lowest price.
Final Thoughts
My ideal combo gas charcoal grill is one that fits my cooking style, space, and budget while giving me flexibility. I want something durable, easy to use, and simple to clean. When I choose carefully, I get a grill that lets me enjoy fast gas cooking and flavorful charcoal grilling in one setup.
Final Thoughts
I think combo gas charcoal grills are a great choice if you want the convenience of gas and the rich flavor of charcoal in one setup. My takeaway is that they offer real flexibility, making it easier to match the grill to the meal, the moment, and your cooking style. If you want one grill that can do more than one job well, this type of grill is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.
I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.
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