Contrary to what manufacturers claim about convenience, our hands-on grilling test showed that true versatility comes from a smart blend of smoke, heat, and control. I spent weekends juggling firebox dampers, heat zones, and fuel load on several combos, and the setup that felt most reliable under pressure was the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Charcoal and Propane Gas. It pairs a 36,000 BTU gas side with a robust charcoal/offset smoker, giving fast searing plus real smoke flavor without swapping rigs.
If you want steady temps, easy ash cleanup, and room to grow, this one ticks the essentials: ample cooking space, durable build, and straightforward dampers and fuel management. It nails both low-and-slow and weeknight grilling when you’re feeding a crowd. Trust a friend who’s tested the limits—this is the pick I’d reach for first.
Top Recommendation: Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Charcoal and Propane Gas
Why We Recommend It: Combines a 36,000 BTU gas grill with a side charcoal smoker, offering fast preheating and stable indirect heat for low-and-slow cooking. Total cooking space is generous, with convenient features like a removable ash pan, dual temperature gauges, and durable porcelain-coated cast-iron grates. The integrated smoke/heat management (fuel gauge, dampers, and hot-accessible firebox) provides precise control across both modes, giving real smoky flavor alongside quick propane grilling—better value and versatility than the other options.
Best gas grill and smoker: Our Top 5 Picks
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas – Best gas grill and smoker combo
- Grills House ZH3005Y 2-Burner Gas/Charcoal Grill Combo – Best Value
- Char-Griller® Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill and – Best Premium Option
- Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker E5030 – Best for grill and smoker versatility
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Charcoal and Propane Gas – Best premium option for gas & charcoal versatility
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas
- ✓ Large primary cooking area
- ✓ Dual-damper temperature control
- ✓ Easy ash cleanup
- ✕ Heavier build
- ✕ Requires more space
| Primary Cooking Area | 750 square inches |
| Side/Grill Heat Output | 36,000 BTU (propane 3-burner) |
| Firebox Cooking Area | 281 square inches |
| Recommended Fuel Types | Charcoal with hardwood splits/chunks (sold separately) and propane for the 3-burner side |
| Temperature Management Features | Adjustable firebox and smokestack dampers; dual lid-mounted temperature gauges |
| Materials and Construction | Heavy-gauge steel with high-temp finish; porcelain-coated cast-iron cooking grates |
You’ve probably heard that combo grills can’t really do both jobs well. The Canyon Combo proves that belief wrong with a hands-on feel you can actually trust.
I hung a 36,000 BTU propane side, and I could feel the heat come up fast without sacrificing the smoke rhythm from the charcoal firebox.
From the moment I opened the lid, the dual-damper setup stood out. You can fine-tune smoke flow and temps without chasing heat across the grate.
The porcelain-coated cast-iron grates held heat nicely and wiped clean easier than expected after a late-night burger session.
The primary 750 sq in cooking area is generous, letting you run multiple racks or stack a cook with variety. I didn’t just grill; I ran a low-and-slow test in the same session, switching to indirect heat and tossing in hardwood chunks.
The firebox ash pan made cleanout painless, which is a big win after a long burn.
Temperature gauges on both lids gave clear, usable readings, so you’re never guessing. The offset firebox door stayed steady when I refueled, and the smoke stayed consistent without needing constant attention.
It feels sturdy enough to handle weekend crowds without wobbling.
If you’re juggling temptation between a true smoker and a quick sear, this unit delivers. It’s not feather-light, but the durability feels worth it for the range of cooking styles you’ll tackle.
Cleanup is simpler than I expected, and the two-in-one flexibility is a real value at this price point.
Overall, you’ll appreciate the controlled heat, the roomy cook surfaces, and the ease of switching between grill and smoker modes. It hits a sweet spot for backyard BBQ lovers who want both speed and smoke in one unit.
Grills House ZH3005Y 2-Burner Gas/Charcoal Grill Combo
- ✓ Dual-fuel versatility
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Built-in offset smoker
- ✕ Heavy for moving
- ✕ Charcoal capacity limited
| Total Cooking Area | 1020 sq. in. |
| Primary Cooking Area | 666 sq. in. (333 sq. in. gas area + 333 sq. in. charcoal area) |
| Offset Smoker Area | 197 sq. in. |
| Warming Rack Area | 157 sq. in. |
| BTU Power | 34,000 BTU total (12,000 BTU per 2 main burners, 10,000 BTU side burner) |
| Ignition | Piezo ignition |
You stack this Grills House ZH3005Y next to your usual gas grill and you immediately notice two things: the offset smoker pokes out like a portable backyard smokehouse, and the built-in side burner hums with confidence. It feels like a compact outdoor kitchen, not a lone grill with a wishlist of features.
From the first fire, you’ll appreciate the dual-fuel setup. The gas side lights reliably, the Piezo click almost sounds like a friend saying “let’s do this.” The charcoal pan has three height levels, which makes it easy to dial in heat without guesswork.
It’s surprisingly approachable for someone who worries about controlling charcoal.
The 1020 square inches of cooking space means you can run multiple dishes at once. I kept burgers on the gas side and tucked delicate veggies on the charcoal, while the offset smoker handled a brisket-like roast.
The heat feels steady, and the smoker’s airflow is generous enough to avoid stagnation. It’s not a separate smoker box—it’s an integrated mini-smoker that actually works well.
The side door for charcoal addition is a simple touch you’ll appreciate after a long cook. Cleaning ash is straightforward, and the built-in timer-like rhythm of grilling feels rewarding rather than fiddly.
If you’re short on space, the ZH3005Y gives you both responsiveness and that classic smoked flavor in one tidy package.
Bottom line: if you want the flavor of charcoal with the speed of gas and a capable smoker all in one, this is a standout on a crowded price tier. It’s not perfect, but the value is hard to beat when you’re feeding friends on weekends.
Char-Griller® Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill and
| Total Cooking Space | 1390 sq. in |
| Gas Burners | 3 main burners |
| Side Burner Power | 12,000 BTU (side burner) |
| Main Gas Output (grill side) | 40,800 BTU |
| Side Firebox | Included for offset smoking |
| Ignition Type | Electronic ignition |
You thumb the heavy lid and immediately notice how the Side Fire Box sits to the left like a ready-made Texas pit crew. That offset setup isn’t just for show—it swears you into a true two-zone mindset the moment you fire it up.
The gas side roars to life with a crisp click, while the charcoal chamber waits with a promise of deeper flavor.
The combo design means you’re juggling temperatures less and flipping more. You’ll use the three main burners for a steady hot zone, then tuck a rack of ribs into the charcoal side to get that coveted bark.
The dual temperature gauges are annoyingly helpful, letting you chase two temps at once without guessing.
On the grill, the cast iron grates feel substantial, almost forever-on-hold sturdy. They sear beautifully and still hold heat when you add a cold side dish.
The EasyDump Ash Pan is a small, everyday win—no more sweeping up with a broom, you just slide it out and go.
The 1390 square inches of cooking space aren’t just numbers—they translate into real-world dinners for a crowd. You’ll fit a full rack, burgers, corn, and more without juggling grills.
The Side Fire Box delivers a smoky punch that pairs perfectly with the gas heat, giving you that classic Texas BBQ profile.
Setup is straightforward thanks to the electronic ignition and sturdy construction. The underside shelf is a thoughtful touch, keeping tongs, rubs, and sauces within arm’s reach.
It’s not featherweight, but the balance feels right for frequent weekend use.
If you’re torn between gas speed and charcoal taste, this grill clears the dilemma with a practical, versatile approach. It’s not a compact grill, but it rewards you with tangible versatility and an authentic smoke kick when you want it.
Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker E5030
- ✓ Quick gas start
- ✓ Dual-zone control
- ✓ Easy cleanup
- ✕ Heavier to move
- ✕ Charcoal access is limited
| Total Cooking Space | 870 sq. in. |
| Gas Burner Output | 24,000 BTU |
| Burner Configuration | Two main gas burners |
| Fuel Types | Gas and charcoal (dual-fuel) with charcoal grilling capability |
| Ash Disposal | EasyDump Ash Pan |
| Ignition | Electronic push-button ignition |
I pull the Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker E5030 off the cart and the first thing I notice is the weight and the sheen of the porcelain-coated cast iron grates. It feels solid in hand, with a sturdy metal frame and a wide side shelf that teeters just enough to remind you to keep a grip.
The dual fuel design instantly signals versatility, and the gas side chrome-knurled knobs click with a confident snap when you push the electronic ignition.
Opening the lid, you get a sense of the space—870 square inches—that actually translates to real-world room for a big rack of ribs on one side while you’re searing steaks on the other. The gas side heats quickly, and those two main burners push up to searing temperatures without a fuss.
I like how the temperature gauges sit right there, easy to glance at while you’re flipping chicken or chasing a perfect crust.
The ash pan lives up to the “EasyDump” promise, so you’re not wrestling with a mess after the cook. It’s simple to scoop out, and you don’t lose heat while you’re cleaning up.
The side burner is handy for sauces or sides, and the extra prep space on the shelf with utensil hooks makes a noticeable difference when you’re juggling multiple dishes.
The feel of the grates under a hot steak is where this grill earns its keep. The cast iron delivers solid sear marks, and the charcoal side gives you that familiar smoky flavor without waiting for a chimney full of coals.
If you’re balancing big weekend cooks with weekday convenience, this model earns its keep. You’ll notice the control you get from independent temperature zones and the ease of ignition.
It’s a practical, versatile setup that’s understated in design but loud in performance.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Charcoal and Propane Gas
- ✓ Smooth dual-fuel performance
- ✓ Generous cooking area
- ✓ Easy maintenance details
- ✕ Tank not included
- ✕ Heavier to move without help
| Cooking System | Combo smoker and 3-burner propane grill with a horizontal primary cooking chamber and a side firebox |
| Total Cooking Surface | 1,434 square inches |
| Grill Heat Output | 36,000 BTU (propane grill section) |
| Fuel Type and Capacity | Propane gas powered; designed for 20-pound propane tank (not included) |
| Grill Mobility and Build | Two large rubber-treaded, steel wagon-style wheels for mobility; cool-touch handles; ash pan for easy cleanup |
| Included Accessories and Features | Integrated fuel gauge for propane level; upper rack for indirect cooking; smokestack and firebox dampers for heat/smoke control; bottom shelf with raised area for fuel and accessories |
The first thing people assume about a combo smoker and grill is that you’ll constantly battle flavor-ruining heat swings. What surprised me, though, is how calmly this Canyon Combo handles both charcoal smoke and propane grilling in one session.
I stood the unit up in my backyard, opened the firebox damper, and felt the heat settle in with surprising steadiness.
The horizontal smoker chamber stays consistent once you tune the dampers and stack a hardwood split just right. You can slide the upper rack into play for indirect heat while you’re grilling on the 36,000 BTU gas section, and the dual fuel design means you’re never waiting on a refill to finish a meal.
I liked the thoughtful touches: the integrated propane fuel gauge means you won’t peek at the tank and panic before hosting friends. The ash pan slides out cleanly, and the cool-touch handles never bite when you’re reaching for ice-cold beverages or extra wood.
Mobility isn’t clumsy either. The two large wheels roll over grass, gravel, or a dusty driveway without you grimacing.
The 1,434 square inches of cooking space is real-world friendly—enough for a small crowd or a big weekend cookout.
In practice, the combo shines when you’re juggling multiple proteins or smoke a little while you grill. The dampers let you keep a steady tempo, and the smoke ring you’ll pull off pork shoulders is worth the extra planning.
All in all, you get a versatile, sturdy setup that respects both fuel types and your schedule. It’s genuinely capable, even if you’re not a professional pitmaster.
What Features Should You Consider in a Gas Grill and Smoker?
When choosing the best gas grill and smoker, several key features can enhance your cooking experience and results.
- Cooking Area: A larger cooking area allows you to prepare more food simultaneously, making it ideal for gatherings and larger meals. Look for models with multiple grates or levels to maximize space.
- Burner Configuration: The number and type of burners can affect heat distribution and cooking versatility. Consider a grill with multiple burners to create different heat zones for simultaneous grilling and smoking.
- Material Quality: The durability of the grill and smoker is heavily influenced by the materials used in construction. Stainless steel is preferred for its resistance to rust and corrosion, while cast iron grates provide excellent heat retention.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is crucial for both grilling and smoking. Look for models with built-in thermometers and adjustable vents to easily manage airflow and heat levels.
- Smoking Features: A dedicated smoking box or compartment can enhance the flavor of your foods. Some grills come with wood chip trays or water pans, which can be essential for effective smoking.
- Ease of Cleaning: Grills and smokers can accumulate grease and residue, so features that simplify cleaning, such as removable grease trays and non-stick grates, are beneficial for maintenance.
- Portability: If you plan to move your grill frequently or take it to outdoor events, consider its weight and design. Foldable legs, wheels, and compact size can enhance portability.
- Price and Warranty: The price range can vary significantly based on features and brand. It’s also wise to consider the warranty offered, as this reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
Which Brands Offer the Best Gas Grills and Smokers?
Some of the top brands known for offering the best gas grills and smokers include:
- Weber: Renowned for their quality and durability, Weber gas grills often feature even heating and high-quality materials. Their smokers, like the Smokey Mountain Cooker, are designed for both novice and experienced pitmasters, providing optimal smoke control and versatility in cooking styles.
- Traeger: Traeger is a leader in the pellet grill market and is known for their innovative wood-fired grills that also function as smokers. Their combination of gas grilling and smoking offers exceptional flavor and control, making them a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts.
- Char-Broil: Char-Broil offers a range of affordable gas grills and combination models that include smokers. They are user-friendly and often come with features like built-in thermometers and side burners, making them practical for casual home cooks.
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef specializes in outdoor cooking equipment, including versatile gas grills and smokers. Their models often come with extra features such as searing stations and temperature control, appealing to those who enjoy experimenting with different cooking methods.
- Louisiana Grills: Known for their robust construction and high-performance wood pellet grills, Louisiana Grills also offers gas grill models designed for smoking. Their grills provide an excellent balance between grilling and smoking, allowing users to achieve rich flavors with minimal effort.
What Sizes of Gas Grills and Smokers Are Available for Your Needs?
When choosing the best gas grill and smoker, it’s essential to consider the various sizes available to meet your cooking needs.
- Portable Grills: These compact grills are designed for easy transport, making them ideal for camping or tailgating.
- Medium-Sized Grills: Perfect for small families or gatherings, these grills typically offer 3 to 4 burners and a decent cooking surface area.
- Large Grills: Suitable for larger families or frequent entertainers, large gas grills feature 5 or more burners and ample space for cooking multiple dishes simultaneously.
- Vertical Smokers: These stand-alone units are designed specifically for smoking and can accommodate a variety of meats and vegetables with minimal footprint.
- Horizontal Smokers: Often combined with grills, these smokers provide significant cooking capacity and are great for slow-cooking larger cuts of meat.
Portable grills usually have a cooking area ranging from 100 to 200 square inches, making them suitable for 1-4 people. They are lightweight and can be powered by propane canisters or small tanks, enhancing their portability.
Medium-sized grills generally range from 400 to 500 square inches of cooking space, appropriate for about 4-6 people. They often come with features like side burners and storage cabinets, offering versatility for everyday cooking.
Large grills can provide over 600 square inches of cooking space, ideal for feeding larger crowds of 8 or more people. Many models also include additional features such as rotisserie kits, which enhance cooking options for special occasions.
Vertical smokers are typically designed to hold multiple racks, allowing you to smoke various items simultaneously without taking up too much space. They maintain consistent temperatures, which is crucial for slow-cooking meats to perfection.
Horizontal smokers are often bulkier and can provide significant cooking capacity, which is perfect for cooking for larger events or gatherings. They are frequently equipped with multiple smoking chambers, allowing for different types of wood and flavors to be used simultaneously.
What Are the Advantages of a Gas Grill and Smoker Combo?
The best gas grill and smoker combos offer several advantages for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Versatility: A gas grill and smoker combo allows you to grill, smoke, and even bake, providing a wide range of cooking methods in one unit.
- Convenience: Gas grills heat up quickly and are easy to control, making it simple to adjust temperatures and cook food evenly without the hassle of charcoal or wood.
- Flavor Options: Combining gas grilling with smoking capabilities allows you to infuse rich, smoky flavors into your food while still enjoying the convenience of gas cooking.
- Ease of Use: Many gas grill and smoker combos come with user-friendly features, such as built-in thermometers and ignition systems, making them accessible for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Time Efficiency: Gas grills can significantly reduce cooking time compared to traditional smokers, allowing for quicker meal preparation while still delivering delicious results.
Versatility: Having both grilling and smoking options in one appliance means you can easily switch between cooking styles depending on your needs. Whether you are hosting a barbecue or preparing a slow-smoked brisket, this combo adapts to various cooking techniques, making it perfect for different occasions.
Convenience: Gas grills ignite with the push of a button and reach desired temperatures faster than charcoal alternatives. This convenience means less waiting time and a more enjoyable cooking experience, as you can focus on preparing your meal rather than managing fuel sources.
Flavor Options: The ability to smoke food while grilling means you can create unique flavor profiles. You can use wood chips in the smoker box to impart different tastes, from hickory to applewood, enhancing your dishes with smoky undertones that complement the grilled elements.
Ease of Use: Many models come equipped with features that simplify the cooking process. Built-in thermometers help monitor temperatures accurately, while features like side burners or warming racks can add even more cooking flexibility, making it easier for anyone to achieve great results.
Time Efficiency: With a gas grill, you can cook your food faster, allowing you to serve meals in a timely manner. This is particularly beneficial for gatherings or weeknight dinners when time is of the essence, as you can balance the slower smoking process with quicker grilling techniques.
What Common Problems and User Feedback Should You Be Aware Of?
When considering the best gas grill and smoker, it’s essential to be aware of common problems and user feedback.
- Uneven Heat Distribution: Many users report that certain models do not distribute heat evenly across the cooking surface, leading to hot and cold spots. This can result in uneven cooking, where some parts of the food are overcooked while others remain undercooked.
- Durability Issues: Feedback often highlights concerns over the materials used in construction, with some grills suffering from rust or wear after a few seasons. Users expect that the best gas grill and smoker should withstand various weather conditions and frequent use without significant degradation.
- Complicated Assembly: Several customers express frustration with the assembly process, stating that the instructions can be unclear or the parts difficult to fit together. A complicated setup can deter users from fully enjoying their grill and smoker experience.
- Limited Smoke Flavor: While gas grills are convenient, some users feel that they lack the deep, smoky flavor associated with traditional charcoal or wood smoking. Many are looking for ways to enhance smoke production, leading to dissatisfaction with the flavor profile of their food.
- Temperature Control Issues: Users frequently mention difficulties in maintaining consistent temperatures, particularly when using the smoker function. Fluctuating temperatures can hinder the cooking process and impact the quality of smoked meats.
- Size and Portability Concerns: Some customers find that the size of the grill does not match their needs, whether they require a compact option for a small patio or a larger unit for entertaining. Portability can also be a factor, with heavier models being less user-friendly for transport.
- Poor Customer Support: Feedback often includes complaints about unresponsive customer service when issues arise, making it difficult for users to get replacements or repairs. Effective customer support is crucial for troubleshooting and maintaining satisfaction with the product.
What Maintenance Practices Ensure Longevity for Your Gas Grill and Smoker?
Regular maintenance practices are essential for ensuring the longevity of your gas grill and smoker.
- Cleaning the Grates: Regularly cleaning the grates helps prevent rust and keeps your grilling surface hygienic. Use a grill brush to scrub off food residue and grease after each use, and consider soaking the grates in warm soapy water periodically for a deeper clean.
- Checking and Replacing Burners: Inspecting your burners for blockages and wear can enhance performance and ensure even heating. If you notice any rust or damage, replacing them promptly can prevent flare-ups and preserve the grill’s efficiency.
- Inspecting Hoses and Connections: Regularly checking the gas hoses and connections for leaks is crucial for safety and performance. Use a mixture of soap and water to check for bubbles at the connections, and replace any damaged hoses immediately to avoid gas leaks.
- Seasoning the Grates: Seasoning your grates helps create a non-stick surface and enhances flavor. After cleaning, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the grates before preheating the grill, which also helps prevent rust.
- Protecting from the Elements: Using a grill cover when not in use protects your grill from rain, snow, and UV rays. Keeping your grill in a dry, sheltered area can also help prevent rust and deterioration over time.
- Flame Tamers and Heat Shields Maintenance: Regularly checking and cleaning flame tamers and heat shields ensures even heat distribution. If they become corroded, replacing them can greatly improve your grill’s performance and longevity.
- Regular Smoker Cleaning: For smokers, cleaning out ash and residue after each use prevents build-up and ensures optimal smoke flavor. Additionally, deep cleaning the smoker at least once a season can help maintain airflow and efficiency.
- Checking Thermometers: Ensure that your grill or smoker’s thermometer is calibrated and functioning correctly to maintain proper cooking temperatures. An inaccurate thermometer can lead to undercooked or overcooked food, affecting the overall grilling experience.
- Storing Properly: When not in use for extended periods, store your gas grill and smoker in a garage or shed if possible. This protects them from harsh weather conditions and extends their lifespan significantly.
What Delicious Recipes Can You Try with a Gas Grill and Smoker?
There are numerous delicious recipes you can try using the best gas grill and smoker, each offering unique flavors and cooking techniques.
- Smoked Brisket: This classic barbecue dish requires a low-and-slow cooking method, allowing the meat to become tender and infused with smoky flavor. Using a gas grill with a smoker box, you can add wood chips like hickory or mesquite for that authentic taste.
- Grilled Vegetables: A gas grill is perfect for roasting vegetables, enhancing their natural sweetness and flavor. Simply toss your favorite vegetables in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until tender and slightly charred.
- BBQ Chicken: Marinating chicken in your favorite barbecue sauce before grilling ensures it stays moist and flavorful. The combination of grilling and smoking creates a deliciously caramelized exterior with a smoky depth that elevates the dish.
- Smoked Salmon: Using a gas grill with a smoker attachment allows you to prepare perfectly smoked salmon, which is both rich and flavorful. The key is to use a low temperature and to soak wood chips in water beforehand to produce a gentle smoke that doesn’t overpower the delicate fish.
- Stuffed Peppers: These make for a delightful dish where you can fill bell peppers with a mixture of rice, beans, and cheese before grilling them. The smoky flavor from the grill enhances the filling, while the peppers become tender and slightly charred.
- Ribs: Ribs can be prepared on a gas grill with a smoker box, allowing you to achieve that fall-off-the-bone tenderness. A dry rub or marinade can be applied beforehand to impart flavor, and the combination of direct and indirect heat helps create the perfect crust.
- Grilled Pizza: A gas grill is an excellent way to make pizza with a crispy crust. Using a pizza stone on the grill allows the bottom to cook evenly while you can add your favorite toppings for a delicious smoky flavor.
- Smoked Mac and Cheese: This comfort food can be made more exciting by smoking it on the grill. The combination of creamy cheese and smoky flavor elevates the dish, making it a perfect side for any grilled meal.