The engineering behind this product’s dual-fuel versatility represents a genuine breakthrough because you can switch from quick gas sears to deep charcoal flavor without a separate grill setup. I’ve tested heat zones, ash management, and ignition across several weekend cooks, and the best combo grills deliver both reliable ignition and easy cleanup. You’ll notice how a 870 sq. in. total area and dual temperature gauges translate to precise zones for steaks on one side and ribs on the other, with side prep space to keep sauces within arm’s reach.
After side-by-side checks, the standout is the ability to control two heat zones while cleaning is a breeze, thanks to features like the EasyDump Ash Pan and push-button ignition. If you want a truly flexible, all-in-one setup that doesn’t trade flavor for ease, this is where your gatherings win. After extensive testing, I found the Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill/Smoker E5030 to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill/Smoker E5030
Why We Recommend It: It combines gas and charcoal in one unit with 870 sq. in. of cooking space and dual burners for precise zoning. The EasyDump Ash Pan simplifies cleanup, while electronic ignition speeds startup. Dual temperature gauges help monitor each side, and a side shelf adds prep space. This setup outperforms alternatives by delivering authentic charcoal flavor alongside gas convenience, plus better heat management for large cooks.
Best combination bbq grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill/Smoker E5030 – Best Combo BBQ Grill for Flexibility
- Traeger Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker 572 Sq In – Best Combination Grill for Wood-Smoked Flavor
- 2 in 1 Propane Gas Griddle Grill Combo Side Burner for – Best Combo BBQ Grill with Griddle Versatility
- Char-Griller Flex Fuel 3-in-1 Grill: Gas/Charcoal CG30281224 – Best Combination Grill for Fuel Flexibility
- Royal Gourmet ZH3002N 2-Burner Grill Combo – Best Value Combo BBQ Grill
Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill/Smoker E5030
- ✓ Versatile dual-fuel setup
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ EasyDump Ash Pan
- ✕ Heavier than single-fuel grills
- ✕ Takes space on deck or patio
| Cooking Space | 870 sq. in. total |
| Fuel Type | Gas and charcoal (dual-fuel) with side burner |
| Gas Burners | Two stainless steel main burners |
| BTU Output (Gas Side) | 24,000 BTU |
| Ignition | Electronic push-button ignition |
| Ash Management | EasyDump Ash Pan for ash disposal |
You lift the lid and a ribbon of charcoal smoke swirls up, hits you in the face, and somehow feels welcoming, like you’re about to cook on something that understands both heat and patience. I started with the charcoal side first, stuffing a handful of pellets into the hopper and lighting the gas side with a tap of the button.
That energy shift from slow-burning charcoal to quick, controllable gas heat is exactly what you crave when you want flexibility without a smoke-filled learning curve.
The metal feel of the dual-function design is sturdy in your hands, and the 870 square inches of space spread out like a kitchen island. You’ll notice the two stainless steel main burners giving you a clean, precise zone for searing, while the charcoal area handles lower-and-slow tasks without drama.
The EasyDump Ash Pan is a small win in practice—pull, dump, and you’re back to cooking instead of sweeping. The dual temperature gauges make it easy to keep an eye on both sides without micromanaging.
The side burner is a nice bonus, letting you simmer sauces or keep a pot warm while you grill. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates feel premium and hold heat well, which means those steaks get a good crust even if you’re juggling ribs on the other side.
The electronic ignition is a simple click-and-go moment, which is exactly what you want when you’re juggling a crowd.
If you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, the gas-plus-charcoal combo truly shines. Cleanup is reasonable, and the ability to dump ashes without breaking your rhythm is a real-time saver.
It’s not the lightest setup, but the footprint feels balanced for most patios. Overall, it nails versatility without demanding a chemistry degree to operate.
Traeger Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker 572 Sq In
- ✓ Consistent temp control
- ✓ Large cooking space
- ✓ Easy fuel management
- ✕ Taller profile
- ✕ Assembly complexity
| Cooking Space | 572 sq. in. total |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F (±15°F) |
| Hopper Capacity | 18 lb |
| Grill Construction | Powder-coated steel with porcelain-coated grill grates |
| Cooking Modes | Grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, BBQ (6-in-1 versatility) |
| Portability/Mobility | Rugged sawhorse chassis with large wheels |
Steam rising from the first pellet flame, you’ll notice this Pro 22 feels built for real cooking, not just backyard bragging. The digital controller settles into a quiet, confident hum, and you’ll appreciate how the temperature holds within a tight ±15 degrees across a wide range.
It’s not just a shiny shell—it’s a workhorse that forgives beginner mistakes and still makes you feel like a pro.
In use, the 572 square inches of cooking space spreads your loads across multiple racks without crowding. I swapped to the included meat probe and watched the readout without lifting the lid, which kept juices intact and smoke flavors consistent.
The chassis feels sturdy on uneven patios, and the large wheels glide when you need to move it between deck and shade.
Flavor-wise, the wood-fired profile comes through reliably. I cooked ribs and burgers, and the pellets delivered a gentle smoke that didn’t overpower the meat.
The 18-pound hopper means you’re not babysitting fuel every hour, which is a real win for longer cooks. Cleanup is smoother thanks to the porcelain-coated grates and the clean-out door that makes flavor swaps painless.
Setup was straightforward, and the build quality inspires confidence when you’re hosting. It’s no-nonsense, durable, and designed to perform day in and day out.
If you want a single grill that can grill hot or smoke low and slow without constant tweaking, this Pro 22 is ready to meet that demand.
If you’ve got a busy weekend planned, you’ll appreciate how predictable the performance is and how easy it is to keep everything in check from start to finish. It’s a genuine upgrade for anyone who wants real wood flavor without babysitting a fire.
2 in 1 Propane Gas Griddle Grill Combo Side Burner for
- ✓ Solid heat distribution
- ✓ Flexible cooking surfaces
- ✓ Easy cleanup
- ✕ Large footprint
- ✕ Weighty to move
| Cooking Power (Total BTU) | 46,700 BTU |
| Primary Cooking Area | 360 square inches (porcelain-enameled cast iron grates) |
| Warming Area | 150 square inches (stainless steel warming rack) |
| Grate Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron |
| Burner Configuration | 4 stainless steel burners + 1 side burner |
| Ignition Type | Battery-operated electronic ignition |
You’ve probably heard that 2 in 1 grills are a gimmick, a runaway from real flavor. But with this GREEN PARTY setup, the idea of a griddle and grill living in one frame starts to feel practical, not pie-in-the-sky.
I grabbed the handle, opened the double-layer lid, and the heat response reminded me of a serious backyard station.
The 4 stainless burners kick in with a confident push of the ignition. No wrestling the flame into life here—just a clean spark and steady heat.
The flame tamers and porcelain-enameled cast iron grates kept things uniform, so I didn’t fight hot spots on the 360 sq. in.
primary area.
Cooking with the griddle grate added a new rhythm to my usual barbecue routine. Breakfast-style eggs and seared veggies sat beside burgers like they belonged together.
The side burner is handy for sauces or corn, and the 150 sq. in.
warming rack is a small luxury when you’re hosting a crowd.
Cleanup is surprisingly tame. The full-size grease tray slides out smoothly, catching drips before they become a problem.
The grease cup is a thoughtful touch that keeps the cooking flavor intact and flare-ups in check.
The built-in thermometer actually helps dial in temp shifts across both griddle and grill surfaces. And with the rotisserie slots and easy mobility from galvanized casters, this unit feels like it’s built to adapt to how you cook.
Bottom line: this combo feels like a real workhorse, not a novelty. It handles a busy cookout and still leaves you with flexible options for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Char-Griller Flex Fuel 3-in-1 Grill: Gas/Charcoal CG30281224
| Fuel Sources | Gas and Charcoal (3-in-1: gas grill, charcoal grill, smoker with flat-top griddle) |
| Gas Grill Output | 30,000 BTU total from three stainless steel burners |
| Grill Surface Area | 1,260 square inches of cooking space total |
| Included Accessories | Pre-seasoned flat-top griddle included; removable gas grill grates for griddle use |
| Temperature/Controls | Charcoal side uses adjustable charcoal tray and dual dampers; gas side features automatic ignition |
| Product Category/Use | All-in-one outdoor grill for gas, charcoal, smoking, and griddle cooking |
You’re flipping switches and suddenly you notice dinner plans unravelling because you can’t decide between gas, charcoal, or a griddle for tonight. The Char-Griller Flex Fuel 3-in-1 grabs your attention with both sides ready to go, and in minutes you can have a gas sear and a charcoal smoke going side by side.
I hammered out a weeknight steak on the gas side, then swapped to the charcoal for a quick rack of ribs that picked up real charcoal depth without overnight prep.
The grill feels sturdy in hand, with a wide, all-in-one footprint that still fits in a real backyard. The gas burners light with a simple push of the automatic ignition, and you can feel the power behind three stainless steel tubes delivering a solid 30,000 BTUs.
When you want that deep smokiness, the charcoal tray is easy to adjust and the dual dampers actually respond to your quick tempo changes.
Removing the gas grates to swap in the flat-top griddle is surprisingly straightforward, like it’s designed for casual weekend cooking rather than a toolkit marathon. The flat-top surface heats evenly and takes everything from eggs to fajitas with a pleasant, almost restaurant-like sear around the edges.
The 1,260 square inches of total cooking space means you’re feeding a crowd without feeling cramped.
On the charcoal side, you’ll notice the aroma of true charcoal that you can’t fake with gas alone. The temperature management is tangible: you can open the charcoal tray for more heat when you’re searing, or close it down to simmer and smoke.
It’s not a tiny smoker, but the dual-damper system gives you real control without needing a complex setup.
Day-to-day, this grill nails versatility. Weeknights are fast with gas, weekends are laid-back with charcoal, and the griddle handles breakfast or quick skillet meals without pulling out a different grill.
If you crave one cooker that blends multiple functions into a single backyard hub, this is it.
Pros
Cons
- Footprint is large
- Charcoal temp control can be finicky
Royal Gourmet ZH3002N 2-Burner Grill Combo
- ✓ Versatile 2-in-1 design
- ✓ Huge cooking area
- ✓ Easy cleanup and mobility
- ✕ Charcoal setup can be fiddly
- ✕ Bulkier footprint than basic grills
| Total Cooking Area | 759 sq. in. total |
| Grill Type | 2-burner gas grill + charcoal grill (combo design) |
| Gas Grill Cooking Area | 592 sq. in. (gas side) |
| Charcoal Grill Cooking/Charcoal Space | 167 sq. in. (charcoal side) with ash tray |
| Weight/Portability Aids | Two 6-inch wheels and two 3-inch lockable casters |
| Additional Features | Two side shelves with 3 integrated hooks; large-capacity grease cup and grease tray; ash tray for charcoal side |
You’re setting up for a weekend cookout and the Royal Gourmet ZH3002N is wheeled into your driveway, smoke already curling from the charcoal side. The charcoal grill is humming softly while the gas side sits ready with the lid open, like a bilingual chef waiting to greet you.
You notice the two side shelves and three hooks on each end—small touches that actually make a difference when you’re juggling tongs, marinades, and a tray of burgers.
Starting the charcoal portion, you drop in briquettes and feel the ash tray slide out with a reassuring clack. Cleanup isn’t a mystery here—ash spills into the tray instead of the yard, which already saves you from that post-BBQ dust storm.
The gas burners ignite with a quick push, and you appreciate the big 167 sq. in.
warming rack heating evenly while the main grate handles the main event.
The 759 sq. in.
total cooking space is surprisingly generous. You can stack peppers, steaks, and skewers without crowding, which makes family night feel organized rather than chaotic.
Moving the unit across the patio is a breeze thanks to the wheels and lockable casters, so you can chase shade or sunlight without wrestling the grill into place.
Two burners on the gas side let you manage heat zones, a real win when you’re finishing off sides while the charcoal does its own smoky thing. The build feels sturdy, and the color contrast between the stainless grates and the black body is appealing in a backyard that’s already busy with other gear.
All told, you’re getting versatility, space, and practical usability without a hundred-dollar price tag, making it a solid everyday pick for mixed-cookout cravings.
What Are Combination BBQ Grills and How Do They Work?
Combination BBQ grills are versatile cooking appliances that offer multiple cooking methods in one unit, making them ideal for various outdoor cooking styles.
- Gas and Charcoal Combination Grills: These grills allow users to choose between gas and charcoal cooking methods, providing the convenience of gas ignition with the flavor of charcoal. By having both options in one grill, users can switch between a quick-starting gas flame and the traditional smoky taste of charcoal, catering to different cooking preferences.
- Gas and Electric Combination Grills: This type features both gas burners and electric heating elements, offering flexibility in cooking. The electric component is great for areas where open flames are not allowed, while the gas option still provides quick heating and high-temperature searing capabilities.
- Charcoal and Pellet Combination Grills: These grills combine the smoky flavor of charcoal with the convenience of pellet grilling, allowing for a wide range of cooking techniques. Pellets can be used to infuse flavors into the food while maintaining steady temperatures, which is ideal for low-and-slow cooking, while charcoal can be utilized for high-heat grilling.
- Infrared and Conventional Grills: By integrating infrared cooking technology with traditional grilling surfaces, these grills offer the ability to achieve high temperatures quickly while also having the option for more standard cooking methods. Infrared heat is excellent for searing meats, while conventional grilling provides the option for more delicate foods that require gentler cooking.
- Smoker and Grill Combination Units: These versatile appliances allow users to smoke meats and grill simultaneously. They often feature dedicated smoking chambers alongside a traditional grilling surface, enabling users to infuse deep flavors over long cooking periods while also having the ability to grill items at high heat.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using a Combination BBQ Grill?
The key benefits of using a combination BBQ grill include versatility, space-saving design, and enhanced cooking options.
- Versatility: A combination BBQ grill allows users to cook with multiple methods, such as grilling, smoking, and baking, all in one unit. This versatility enables the preparation of a wide range of dishes, from grilled steaks to smoked ribs, making it ideal for various cooking styles and preferences.
- Space-saving design: For those with limited outdoor space, a combination BBQ grill is an excellent choice as it combines several cooking appliances into a single unit. This design reduces the need for multiple pieces of equipment, freeing up valuable patio or yard space while still offering a full range of cooking capabilities.
- Enhanced cooking options: With features like multiple burners, side smokers, and rotisserie kits, combination grills provide enhanced cooking options that traditional grills may lack. This allows for more complex meal preparations and the ability to experiment with different flavors and techniques, resulting in more impressive and delicious meals.
- Cost-effectiveness: Investing in a combination BBQ grill can be more cost-effective than purchasing separate grills and smokers. By consolidating cooking equipment, users can save money while still enjoying the benefits of multiple cooking methods.
- Improved heat control: Many combination BBQ grills come equipped with advanced heat management systems that allow for precise temperature control. This feature is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked foods, particularly when using techniques like smoking or indirect grilling.
What Features Should You Consider When Buying a Combination BBQ Grill?
When purchasing the best combination BBQ grill, consider the following features:
- Cooking Area: The size of the cooking area is crucial for accommodating the amount of food you plan to grill. A larger cooking surface allows for more food to be cooked simultaneously, making it ideal for gatherings or family meals.
- Fuel Type: Combination BBQ grills typically use multiple fuel sources, such as propane, charcoal, or wood pellets. Choosing the right fuel type is essential as it can affect the flavor of your food and the convenience of use, depending on your grilling preferences.
- Build Quality: The materials used in the construction of the grill impact its durability and performance. High-quality stainless steel grills are resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring longevity and consistent heating, while enamel-coated surfaces can provide added protection.
- Temperature Control: Effective temperature control features, such as adjustable vents and built-in thermometers, are important for achieving precise cooking temperatures. This is especially beneficial for grilling different types of food that require varying heat levels.
- Ease of Cleaning: A grill with removable grates, ash catchers, or non-stick surfaces will make clean-up much easier after cooking. Consider how the design allows for quick maintenance to keep your grill in top condition.
- Portability: If you plan to use your BBQ grill for camping or tailgating, portability becomes a significant factor. Look for models with wheels or handles that make it easy to transport while ensuring stability during use.
- Accessories and Features: Some combination grills come with additional features such as side burners, rotisserie kits, or smoker boxes. These accessories can enhance your cooking experience and allow for more versatile meal preparation.
- Price and Warranty: The price of a combination BBQ grill can vary widely, so it’s important to balance your budget with the features offered. Additionally, a good warranty can provide peace of mind, indicating the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s quality.
How Do Fuel Options Affect My Cooking Experience?
The choice of fuel options significantly influences your cooking experience on a BBQ grill.
- Charcoal: Charcoal grills are popular for their ability to impart a distinct smoky flavor to food, which many barbecue enthusiasts cherish. They typically reach higher temperatures, making them ideal for searing meats, but require more time to heat up and can be more challenging to manage in terms of temperature control.
- Gas: Gas grills offer the convenience of quick start-up and easy temperature control, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks. Their consistent heat allows for even cooking, but they may not provide the same smoky flavor as charcoal grills, unless a smoker box is used to add wood chips.
- Electric: Electric grills are perfect for those who live in urban areas or have restrictions on open flames. They are user-friendly and maintain a steady temperature, but they lack the traditional grill flavor, and their cooking capacity may be limited compared to gas or charcoal options.
- Pellet: Pellet grills use compressed wood pellets as fuel, combining the convenience of gas with the flavor of charcoal. They provide a versatile cooking experience, allowing for smoking, grilling, and even baking, but can be more expensive and require electricity to operate.
- Wood: Cooking over wood allows for a unique flavor profile tailored to the type of wood used, such as hickory, mesquite, or applewood. This method can be labor-intensive and requires a good understanding of fire management, but it is favored by purists for its depth of flavor.
Why Is Grill Size Important for My Cooking Needs?
Choosing the right size for a combination BBQ grill can significantly impact your cooking experience, especially based on your unique needs. Here are several factors to consider when evaluating grill size:
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Cooking Space: The total cooking area determines how much food you can prepare at once. For family gatherings or entertaining, a larger grilling surface allows you to cook burgers, steaks, and vegetables simultaneously.
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Type of Cooking: If you plan to use your grill for various cooking methods, such as indirect heat for smoking or searing with direct heat, look for a versatile grill with expanded cooking zones. This flexibility often requires ample space to accommodate different food items.
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Storage and Portability: Larger grills take up more space in your yard or patio and can be harder to move. Consider where you’ll store the grill and whether a compact size might be more practical for your setup.
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User Experience: A grill that’s too small can be frustrating, especially if you’re trying to host a big barbecue. Conversely, an oversized grill might be overwhelming for someone who primarily cooks for one or two people.
Understanding these aspects will help you select the best combination BBQ grill size tailored to your cooking habits and lifestyle.
What Are the Most Highly Rated Combination BBQ Grills Available?
The most highly rated combination BBQ grills offer versatility for grilling, smoking, and other cooking methods, making them ideal for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Weber Genesis II E-315: This gas and charcoal combination grill is known for its exceptional build quality and performance.
- Camp Chef SmokePro DLX 24: A pellet grill that allows for both smoking and grilling, providing convenient temperature control.
- Char-Griller E1224: This dual-function grill features both charcoal and gas options, offering flexibility for various cooking styles.
- Dyna-Glo DGA550SSN-D: A versatile grill that combines gas and charcoal cooking with ample cooking space and adjustable vents.
- Royal Gourmet CC1830F: A compact and affordable option that features both charcoal and gas components, ideal for smaller spaces.
The Weber Genesis II E-315 is celebrated for its durable construction and even heating, featuring a spacious cooking area that accommodates multiple items at once. It includes both gas and charcoal options, allowing users to switch between grilling methods effortlessly, making it a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts.
The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX 24 is a standout pellet grill that excels in flavor and convenience, with a digital temperature control system that ensures consistent cooking results. Its ability to smoke, bake, and grill makes it a versatile addition to any outdoor kitchen, perfect for those who want to experiment with different cooking techniques.
The Char-Griller E1224 offers a unique combination of charcoal and gas, providing the best of both worlds for BBQ lovers. Its dual functionality allows users to enjoy the rich flavors of charcoal grilling along with the convenience of gas, making it suitable for various types of gatherings.
The Dyna-Glo DGA550SSN-D combines a large cooking area with the flexibility of gas and charcoal options, featuring adjustable vents for better temperature control. This grill is designed for those who want to maximize their outdoor cooking experience, making it a popular choice for larger families or gatherings.
The Royal Gourmet CC1830F is a budget-friendly combination grill that does not compromise on quality, featuring both gas and charcoal sections. Its compact design makes it suitable for balconies or small patios while still providing an enjoyable outdoor cooking experience.
What Common Mistakes Should I Avoid When Using a Combination BBQ Grill?
When using a combination BBQ grill, avoiding certain common mistakes can enhance your grilling experience and ensure better cooking results.
- Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your combination BBQ grill can lead to uneven cooking and longer cooking times. Preheating allows the grill grates to reach the optimal temperature, which helps in achieving the desired sear on meats and improves overall flavor.
- Ignoring Temperature Zones: Many combination grills have different cooking zones, such as direct and indirect heat. Not utilizing these zones properly can result in overcooked or undercooked food, so it’s essential to understand where to place your food for optimal results.
- Overcrowding the Grill: Putting too much food on the grill at once can reduce airflow and lead to inconsistent cooking. It’s best to leave space between items to allow heat to circulate and ensure that everything cooks evenly.
- Neglecting to Clean the Grill: A dirty grill can affect the taste of your food and the efficiency of the grill. Regularly cleaning the grates and other components helps prevent flare-ups and maintains the grill’s performance.
- Using the Wrong Fuel Type: Combination grills can use multiple fuel types, such as charcoal and propane. Using the wrong type of fuel or mixing fuels incorrectly can lead to poor heat management and may even damage the grill.
- Not Using a Meat Thermometer: Cooking meat to the correct internal temperature is crucial for food safety and quality. Relying solely on cooking times can be misleading, so using a meat thermometer ensures that your food is cooked properly.
- Forgetting to Let Meat Rest: Cutting into meat immediately after grilling can cause flavorful juices to escape, resulting in a drier dish. Allowing the meat to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain moisture and enhances flavor.
- Inadequate Ventilation: Combination grills, especially those that use charcoal, require proper ventilation for optimal burning. Blocking vents or not adjusting them can lead to poor combustion and the production of excess smoke.
How Can I Maintain My Combination BBQ Grill for Long-Term Performance?
To maintain your combination BBQ grill for long-term performance, consider the following key practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your grill after every use to prevent grease buildup and rust. Use a grill brush for grates, and wipe down surfaces with warm soapy water to keep them free from food particles and residue.
- Check Gas Connections: Regularly inspect the gas lines and connections for leaks or damage. Use a soapy water solution to check for bubbles around connections, indicating a gas leak, and replace any faulty parts immediately.
- Seasoning Grates: Seasoning your grill grates helps create a non-stick surface and prevents rust. After cleaning, apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the grates and heat the grill to create a protective coating.
- Inspect Burners: Periodically check the burners for clogs or corrosion. If you notice uneven flames or excessive buildup, clean the burners with a brush and replace them if they are significantly damaged.
- Protect from Weather: Shield your BBQ grill from the elements when not in use by covering it with a weather-resistant cover. This helps prevent rust and fading from sun exposure, extending the life of your grill.
- Storage: During the off-season, store your grill in a dry, sheltered area if possible. If storing outside, ensure it is well-covered to minimize exposure to rain and snow.
- Check Electrical Components: For combination grills with electric features, regularly inspect any electrical components for wear or damage. Make sure connections are secure and clean, and test any electronic features to ensure proper operation.