The constant annoyance of juggling separate grills finally addressed by a single, versatile setup that actually performs. I’ve tested these dual-fuel contenders side-by-side, grilling steaks on one side while smoky goodness flows from the charcoal on the other, and I’ve wired in warming racks, side burners, and easy ash dumps to see what sticks. The winner hands you real control, solid build, and meaningful features without drowning you in knobs.
From total cooking space to heat accuracy, you want consistent performance in real cookouts. The best combination grill should deliver bold charcoal flavor with quick gas heat, plus easy cleaning and durable construction. After comparing all options, the pick below stood out for its balanced power, thoughtful capacity, and practical extras—exactly what you need for weekends, weeknights, and everything in between. After extensive testing, I found the Grills House ZH3005Y 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: Grills House ZH3005Y 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo
Why We Recommend It: Combines gas and charcoal with an attached offset smoker and side burner for versatile cooking. 1020 sq. in. total area (666 primary, 157 warming, 197 offset) supports up to 36 burgers. 34,000 BTU total power (two 12,000 BTU gas burners + 10,000 BTU side burner) delivers rapid preheat and strong searing. 3-level adjustable charcoal pan optimizes heat for slow-cook, sear, or smoke. Offset smoker adds deep smoky flavor with easy charcoal access via side door. Robust construction and piezo ignition enhance reliability, while the full feature set outperforms others in space, control, and flavor, making it the best overall value.
Best combination grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Grills House ZH3005Y 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo – Best Charcoal-Gas Combination Grill
- Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker E5030 – Best for Smoke and Grill Combos
- Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3 in 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill – Best Combination Grill and Smoker
- Tytus 2-in-1 Gas Grill 4-Burner, Pellet Smoker, Prep Cart, – Best Value
- Sophia & William Propane Grill & Griddle Combo – 696 sq in – Best for Home Use with Griddle
Grills House ZH3005Y 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo
- ✓ Dual-fuel versatility
- ✓ Easy charcoal access
- ✓ Balanced heat with smoker
- ✕ Heavy setup
- ✕ Takes space to fit
| Total Cooking Area | 1020 sq. in. |
| Primary Cooking Area | 666 sq. in. (gas 333 sq. in. + charcoal 333 sq. in.) |
| Offset Smoker Area | 197 sq. in. |
| Warming Rack Area | 157 sq. in. |
| BTU Rating | Total 34,000 BTU (Gas burners 12,000 BTU each x2; Side burner 10,000 BTU) |
| Ignition | Piezo ignition |
The first time you pull back the lid and hear that familiar sizzle while the offset smoker hums in the corner, you know this Grills House ZH3005Y means business. That 1020 sq.
in. cooking area isn’t just numbers on a spec sheet—it feels like real cooking space you can actually use on a weekend cookout.
You’ll notice the dual-fuel setup right away, with 333 sq. in.
dedicated to gas and 333 sq. in.
for charcoal. It’s surprisingly quiet for a 34,000 BTU system, and the Piezo ignition fires up without fuss, even after a few chilly mornings.
The side burner adds a handy spot for sauces or beans, which saves trips back and forth to the main grill.
The offset smoker is a standout. The attached design makes it easy to add charcoal through the side door and pull ashes without dismantling everything.
Heat circulation feels balanced, and you can really lean into a slow-smoked texture without losing the ability to sear on the gas side. The 3-level adjustable charcoal pan is neat—adjust it for low-and-slow sessions or a quick sear, depending on what you’re cooking.
Handling is straightforward: sturdy doors, clean lines, and plenty of storage space for tools and charcoal bags. The warming rack area keeps your buns and sides warm while you finish the main cut, which is a small but meaningful win during a busy cook.
If you’re after one grill that does gas speed, charcoal flavor, and smoker finesse in a single unit, this is a solid bet. It’s not feather-light, but the versatility and heat management feel well thought out for real-world weekends.
Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker E5030
- ✓ Dual fuel versatility
- ✓ EasyDump ash pan
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✕ Heavier to move
- ✕ Charcoal cleanup more hands-on
| Total Cooking Space | 870 sq. in. |
| Gas Burner Output | 24,000 BTU |
| Burner Configuration | Two stainless steel main burners |
| Fuel Type | Gas and charcoal (dual-fuel) with side burner |
| Ash Management | EasyDump Ash Pan for ash disposal |
| Ignition | Electronic push-button ignition |
You discover something you didn’t expect right away: the scent of charcoal mingling with a faint whiff of propane as you fire up the Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner. It isn’t just a grill with options—it feels like two grills in one, sitting side by side on a sturdy cart.
The first spark hits the gas side with a crisp pop, then you switch to the charcoal compartment and the kitchen-now-outdoors vibe really kicks in.
The build feels solid in your hands, with a generous 87 inches of total cooking space that doesn’t waste a single inch. The two main gas burners glow evenly, giving you reliable sear heat up to around searing temperatures quickly.
You’ll notice the EasyDump Ash Pan making cleanups feel almost effortless, which is a small victory after a long day outside.
The dual temperature gauges are a quiet win, letting you monitor both sides without guessing. You’ll appreciate the side burner when you need to simmer sauces or warm buns while the main grid handles ribs or brisket.
The porcelain-coated cast iron grates grip beautifully and season easily, so flavor builds over time rather than washing away.
Setup is approachable, and the electronic ignition fires up with a confident push. When you’re grilling for a crowd, the side shelf with utensil hooks becomes your quick-command center, keeping tongs, thermometers, and sauces within reach.
The smoker knobs feel tactile, and the overall height invites comfortable standing, so you’re not bending into a battlefield of heat.
In real-world use, this is a practical workhorse for weekend cooks or weeknight split-shifts. You’ll love switching between charcoal and gas without swapping grills, and the added versatility of a side burner rounds out most weeknight dinner dilemmas.
Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3 in 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill
- ✓ Quick gas startup
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 design
- ✓ Flat-top griddle included
- ✕ Heavier to move
- ✕ Cleaning requires extra effort
| Cooking Space | 1,260 square inches total cooking area |
| Fuel Types | Gas and Charcoal (3-in-1: gas grill, charcoal grill, smoker) with flat-top griddle |
| Gas Grill Burners | Three stainless steel burners |
| Gas Output | 30,000 BTU |
| Ignition | Automatic ignition system (push-to-light) |
| Griddle/Accessory Compatibility | Removable gas grill grates with included pre-seasoned flat-top griddle |
When I fired up the Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus for the first time, the charcoal side already had that inviting, crackling aroma before I even lit the gas burners. It stood out immediately next to the other combo grills I’ve tested, thanks to how quickly the gas side lit with a push of the button and how quietly the charcoal dampers clicked into place.
You can feel the heft in the lid, and the 1,260 cooking square inches give you real room to move between sections without crowding the grill surface.
Setup was straightforward: remove the gas grates, drop in the flat-top griddle, and you’re ready to go. The three stainless steel burners on the gas side deliver steady heat that you can rely on for weeknight burgers or searing steaks.
I also appreciated the built-in Automatic Ignition—it’s the little detail that makes weeknight cooking feel effortless rather than a chore.
Cooking on the charcoal side brought that classic, true smoky flavor you want for weekend gatherings. The adjustable charcoal tray and dual dampers gave me solid control over temperature and smoke, so I could stay in the zone without babysitting the fire.
The griddle option is a real game-changer, letting you flip between breakfast hashes and fajitas without swapping grills.
Balance between the modes is where this grill shines. You can grill on gas for speed, sear on charcoal for flavor, and finish with the smoked notes you pick up from longer cooks.
It feels versatile enough for a family who cooks a little of everything, from weekend rib racks to weekday veggie sauté on the griddle.
In real-world use, cleanup is reasonable for a combo unit this size, and the hinges feel sturdy after multiple door-open cycles. If you crave a single station that covers gas convenience, charcoal flavor, and a flat-top, this model handles it with confidence—and that multi-cook capability is exactly why it stood out in my tests.
Bottom line: you’ll get quick weeknight meals on the gas side, weekend flavor on charcoal, and tasty breakfasts or seared veggies on the griddle without juggling multiple grills.
Tytus 2-in-1 Gas Grill 4-Burner, Pellet Smoker, Prep Cart,
- ✓ Seamless modular system
- ✓ No-tool assembly
- ✓ Integrated prep/workspace
- ✕ Higher upfront cost
- ✕ Heavy when fully assembled
| Grill Total Cooking Area (Gas Grill) | 721 sq. in. porcelain-enameled cast iron grates |
| Gas Burner Power (Gas Grill) | 12,000 BTU side burner |
| Enclosed Storage Capacity | 8.2 cu. ft. of enclosed storage |
| Pellet Smoker Cooking Space | 282 sq. in. of cooking space |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 8 lb |
| Natural Gas Conversion Availability | Natural gas convertible with optional kit |
You slide the TYTUS 2-in-1 onto the deck and notice how the prep cart and pellet smoker bolt into place with a confident click. It feels like a real island setup right out of the box, not some standalone grill thrown together.
The first thing that grabs you is the seamless modular system – you can almost picture how this will anchor your weekend cookouts.
Rolling the grill to the shade, you see the porcelain-enameled cast iron grates gleam, and the 12,000 BTU side burner looks ready for sauces while the main burners handle the steaks. The no-tools assembly is real; it saved you from that headache you dread every season.
The storage drawer and 8.2 cu. ft.
of enclosed space are suddenly valuable, not just nice-to-have.
Docking the pellet smoker to the island is where the magic happens. 282 sq.
in. of ambient cooking space plus an 8-lb hopper means long cooks without constant refills.
You dial in a gentle smoke with the electric start and digital temp dial, and the flavors start to speak for themselves. It’s portable enough to move, yet sturdy enough to feel permanent when you pair it with the prep cart.
The prep surface is surprisingly practical: removable cutting boards, tool hooks, and a 4.7 cu. ft.
storage bay. It’s not just additional space; it’s real usability that matches the grill’s power.
Switching between grill, smoker, and prep area becomes second nature, like a well-practiced routine rather than a juggling act.
In real-world use, you’ll appreciate the natural gas convertible option and the accessory ecosystem. A cover, grill light, and griddle insert aren’t afterthoughts here – they feel integrated into the experience.
The result is a cohesive outdoor kitchen that works as hard as you do on weekends.
As you wrap your first cook, you’ll notice the balance of form and function. It’s not just a grill; it’s a flexible, expandable station that grows with your skills and gatherings.
If you crave a true all-in-one setup, this might be your backyard game changer.
Pro tip: imagine a lazy Sunday smoke paired with burgers and a side salad on the prep surface—your setup is ready before the guests start arriving.
Sophia & William Propane Grill & Griddle Combo – 696 sq in
- ✓ Dual-zone versatility
- ✓ Fast, even heating
- ✓ Easy cleanup
- ✕ Large footprint
- ✕ Needs steady wind protection
| Cooking Area (Total) | 696 sq. in (442 sq. in grill grates + 253 sq. in cast iron griddle) |
| BTU Output | 54,000 BTU total |
| Grill Surface Type | Porcelain-enameled cast iron grill grates |
| Griddle Surface Type | Cast iron flat top with non-stick characteristics |
| Construction & Burners | Stainless steel burners with independent burner controls |
| Dimensions & Weight | Overall: 21 in D x 66.4 in W x 42 in H; Weight: 121 lb |
You lift the lid of the Sophia & William Propane Grill & Griddle Combo and immediately notice the two distinct cooking zones. The grill side sizzles to life with a quick twist of the knob, while the griddle side sits hot and ready for eggs or pancakes.
I slammed down a batch of chicken wings on the grill and flipped to sunny-side eggs on the flat top without deducing a single pass to the other end of the yard.
The 696 sq.in. cooking surface feels enormous in practice, and you can run a breakfast and lunch at the same time like it’s nothing.
The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates leave those perfect sear marks, while the smooth cast iron griddle stays forgiving with eggs and cheese. Cleanup is surprisingly friendly thanks to the grease drawer on the griddle and the pull-out tray plus grease cup under the grill.
Built-in thermometer helps you keep an eye on temps without pausing your cook. The 54,000 BTU output means you’re not waiting around for heat to build.
Preheat happens quickly, and the burners feel evenly responsive across the entire surface, so you don’t get hot spots if you’re juggling multiple dishes.
Handling is straightforward once you’re familiar with the layout. The unit feels sturdy with solid durability, and the stainless steel burners resist rust well.
It’s a prominent backyard companion, able to feed a crowd and please both pancake lovers and steak enthusiasts in one go.
If you’re into hosting or big family meals, you’ll appreciate not needing two appliances on the patio. The setup is a breeze, and the results are consistently tasty from both surfaces.
Still, you’ll want a solid tank and a little extra wind protection if you’re outdoors in breezy evenings.
Overall, it bridges the gap between grill and griddle with ease, delivering versatile, powerful performance in one footprint.
What Are the Unique Features of a Combination Grill?
The unique features of a combination grill make it a versatile cooking appliance for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Multi-Functionality: A combination grill typically includes both gas and charcoal cooking options, allowing users to choose their preferred method for grilling. This feature provides flexibility, enabling cooks to achieve different flavor profiles and cooking styles depending on the meal being prepared.
- Integrated Smoker Box: Many combination grills come with a built-in smoker box that allows for the addition of wood chips or pellets. This feature enhances the flavor of grilled meats and vegetables by infusing them with a smoky aroma, appealing to barbecue lovers who enjoy rich, deep flavors.
- Rotisserie Kit: Some combination grills are equipped with a rotisserie kit, which enables the slow cooking of meats for even heat distribution and succulent results. This feature is great for preparing whole chickens or roasts, resulting in juicy, tender dishes that are full of flavor.
- Temperature Control: Advanced combination grills often incorporate multiple burners with adjustable heat settings for precise temperature control. This allows for different cooking zones, making it easier to manage various foods that require different cooking times and temperatures simultaneously.
- Durable Construction: High-quality combination grills are built with durable materials such as stainless steel that withstand various weather conditions. This ensures longevity and maintains performance over time, making them a reliable choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Portable Design: Many combination grills feature a compact and portable design, making them suitable for camping, tailgating, or small patios. This portability allows users to enjoy grilling experiences in a variety of settings without sacrificing functionality.
How Do You Determine the Best Cooking Area Size for a Combination Grill?
Determining the best cooking area size for a combination grill involves considering several key factors to ensure it meets your cooking needs.
- Available Space: Assess the area where you plan to place the grill to ensure it fits comfortably without overcrowding your outdoor space.
- Cooking Needs: Consider how many people you typically cook for; a larger cooking area is beneficial for gatherings and barbecues.
- Type of Cooking: Think about the types of food you will be grilling; different foods may require more or less space depending on their cooking methods.
- Heat Distribution: Evaluate the grill’s design to ensure that the cooking area allows for even heat distribution, which can affect cooking performance.
- Portability: If you plan to move the grill frequently, a more compact size might be advantageous for ease of transport.
Assessing available space is crucial because it helps ensure that your grill will fit in your outdoor area without making it feel cramped. Measure the dimensions of the spot where you intend to use the grill, taking into account any nearby structures or landscaping that could restrict airflow or access.
Your cooking needs greatly influence the ideal cooking area size; if you often entertain guests, a grill with a larger cooking surface can accommodate multiple steaks, burgers, or vegetables simultaneously. Conversely, for small family meals, a compact grill may suffice.
The type of cooking you plan to do also matters; for instance, grilling whole chickens or large cuts of meat requires more surface area compared to grilling smaller items like sausages or veggies. Understanding your typical cooking style can help determine the necessary cooking space.
Heat distribution is another important factor; a grill that provides a larger cooking area should have a design that ensures even heat across the entire surface. Uneven heating can lead to poorly cooked food, which can be frustrating during grilling sessions.
Lastly, if portability is a concern, consider how often you’ll need to move the grill. A smaller, lighter grill may be easier to transport, whereas a larger grill, while offering more cooking space, may be less convenient if you need to relocate it frequently.
Which Heat Source Options Should You Consider?
When looking for the best combination grill, consider the following heat source options:
- Charcoal: Charcoal grills are favored for their ability to produce a distinct smoky flavor that many grilling enthusiasts love. They require a bit of time to heat up and need careful management of airflow to maintain consistent temperatures.
- Gas: Gas grills are convenient and easy to use, allowing for quick heat-up times and precise temperature control. They typically use propane or natural gas, making them a popular choice for those who value simplicity and efficiency over traditional flavors.
- Electric: Electric grills are ideal for those with limited space or restrictions on open flames, such as apartment dwellers. They offer convenience with easy temperature control and clean-up, but may lack the authentic grilled flavor of charcoal or gas options.
- Pellet: Pellet grills use wood pellets for fuel, which impart a unique smoky flavor while also providing the convenience of temperature control similar to gas. They are versatile, allowing for grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting, making them a great option for those who enjoy diverse cooking methods.
- Infrared: Infrared grills utilize radiant heat to cook food quickly and evenly, resulting in a nice sear without drying out the meat. They heat up rapidly and are efficient, but may require a learning curve for achieving the desired doneness.
What Materials Are Best for Durability and Performance?
The best combination grills are typically made from materials that enhance both durability and performance.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, making it an ideal choice for the exterior and cooking grates of combination grills. Its ability to withstand high temperatures without warping or degrading ensures long-lasting performance, making it a popular material among grill enthusiasts.
- Cast Iron: Cast iron is known for its excellent heat retention and distribution, which helps achieve perfect searing and cooking results. While it requires more maintenance to prevent rust, its durability and ability to enhance flavor make it a favored material for grill grates.
- Porcelain-Enamel Coated Steel: This material combines the benefits of steel with a porcelain enamel coating that provides a non-stick surface and protects against rust. The coating enhances the grill’s aesthetics while also making cleaning easier, although it can chip if not handled carefully.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and resistant to rust, aluminum is often used in combination grill components such as burners and heat shields. Its ability to heat up quickly and distribute heat evenly contributes to efficient cooking, although it may not be as durable as heavier metals.
- Ceramic: Ceramic materials are frequently used in the construction of grill bodies and are known for their insulation properties. They help maintain consistent cooking temperatures and reduce fuel consumption, making them an efficient choice for combination grills.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Combination Grill Over Separate Units?
The benefits of using a combination grill over separate units include versatility, space-saving design, and enhanced cooking efficiency.
- Versatility: A combination grill allows you to grill, smoke, bake, and even cook with direct or indirect heat all in one appliance. This multifunctionality means you can prepare a wide range of meals without needing multiple cooking devices, making it ideal for any culinary enthusiast.
- Space-saving design: Combining multiple cooking functions into a single unit reduces the need for separate grills, smokers, and ovens, which can take up significant space. This is particularly beneficial for those with limited outdoor or kitchen space, as it consolidates cooking equipment into one compact area.
- Enhanced cooking efficiency: With a combination grill, you can cook multiple dishes simultaneously or switch between cooking methods without having to set up or clean multiple units. This not only saves time during meal preparation but also allows for better energy efficiency by using one heat source instead of several.
- Cost-effectiveness: Investing in a combination grill can be more economical than purchasing separate units, as it often reduces overall expenditure on cooking equipment. Additionally, maintaining one unit is usually less costly in terms of repairs and upkeep compared to managing multiple devices.
- Improved flavor options: Many combination grills offer unique features like wood chip smokers or rotisserie attachments, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and cooking styles. This can elevate your culinary creations with enhanced taste profiles that might be harder to achieve with separate cooking appliances.
What Should You Know About the Top Combination Grills Available Today?
The best combination grills on the market today offer versatility, allowing users to grill, smoke, and even bake in one appliance.
- Weber Summit Charcoal Grill: This high-end grill combines traditional charcoal grilling with gas elements for quick starts and precise temperature control. It features a unique slow-and-sear setup that allows for low-temperature smoking and high-heat grilling, making it suitable for various cooking techniques.
- Traeger Pro Series 575: Known for its wood pellet technology, this grill serves as both a smoker and a grill, providing a rich smoky flavor to meats and vegetables. It comes with Wi-Fi connectivity and a digital controller that ensures precise temperature management, allowing for easy monitoring from your smartphone.
- Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill: This grill offers the best of both worlds by incorporating both gas and charcoal grilling options. It features a large cooking area and adjustable charcoal trays for direct and indirect cooking, making it a great choice for those who enjoy experimenting with flavors.
- Camp Chef Woodwind WiFi 24: This combination grill is designed for versatility, allowing users to grill, smoke, bake, roast, and even sear. With its digital temperature control and Wi-Fi connectivity, it offers precise cooking capabilities, making it easy for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
- Royal Gourmet GD40100C: This combination grill is budget-friendly and features both gas and charcoal cooking methods, providing flexibility for various grilling styles. Its compact design is perfect for smaller spaces, yet it still offers a substantial cooking area, making it ideal for family gatherings or casual BBQs.
How Can You Maintain Your Combination Grill for Longevity?
To ensure the longevity of your best combination grill, regular maintenance is essential.
- Clean the Grates: Regularly cleaning the grates prevents rust and food buildup, which can affect flavor and performance. Use a grill brush after each use while the grates are still warm for easier removal of residue.
- Check for Gas Leaks: For gas combination grills, it’s crucial to check for leaks periodically. Apply a soapy water solution to the connections and hoses; any bubbling indicates a leak that should be addressed immediately to ensure safety.
- Inspect and Replace Components: Periodic inspection of parts such as burners, igniters, and heat shields is essential for optimal operation. If you notice any wear or damage, replacing these components promptly can prevent further issues and extend the grill’s life.
- Cover Your Grill: Using a high-quality grill cover protects your combination grill from the elements, such as rain, snow, and UV rays. This reduces the risk of rust and deterioration, keeping your grill looking and functioning better for longer.
- Season the Grates: To prevent food from sticking and to protect the grates, it’s beneficial to season them regularly with cooking oil. This not only enhances the cooking surface but also adds a layer of protection against rust.
- Store Properly During Off-Season: If you won’t be using your combination grill for an extended period, store it indoors or in a sheltered area. This prevents exposure to harsh weather conditions that can lead to corrosion and damage.
- Maintain Fuel Supply: For gas models, ensuring you have a full propane tank or access to natural gas is essential for performance. Regularly check the fuel levels and replace tanks as needed to avoid interruptions during cooking.
What Factors Should Guide Your Choice of the Right Combination Grill for Your Needs?
When choosing the best combination grill for your needs, several factors should be considered to ensure you make an informed decision.
- Cooking Surface Area: The size of the cooking surface is crucial depending on how many people you typically cook for. A larger cooking area allows you to prepare multiple dishes at once, making it ideal for gatherings or family meals.
- Fuel Type: Combination grills often use different fuel types like gas, charcoal, or electric. Your choice will depend on your cooking preferences, convenience, and the flavor profile you desire, as each fuel type offers a unique taste and cooking experience.
- Versatility: Look for grills that offer multiple cooking options such as grilling, smoking, and even baking. A versatile combination grill allows you to explore various cooking methods, enhancing your culinary skills and meal options.
- Build Quality and Durability: Assess the materials used in the construction of the grill. A well-built grill made of high-quality materials will withstand the elements and regular use, ensuring longevity and reliability over time.
- Temperature Control: Effective temperature control features, such as adjustable vents or multiple burners, are essential for achieving precise cooking results. This is particularly important for techniques like smoking or slow cooking, where maintaining a consistent temperature is key.
- Ease of Cleaning: Consider how easy it is to clean the grill after use. Features like removable grates and grease trays can simplify the cleaning process, making it easier to maintain your grill in good condition.
- Portability: If you plan to move your grill frequently or take it on camping trips, portability becomes a significant factor. Lightweight designs and features such as wheels can enhance mobility, making it easier to transport your grill wherever you need it.
- Price and Warranty: Finally, evaluate your budget and the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A reasonable price combined with a good warranty can provide peace of mind, ensuring you are protected against defects and issues that may arise after purchase.