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You want the instant convenience of a gas grill for a weeknight burger, but you also crave the deep, smoky flavor that only charcoal can deliver on a lazy Saturday. A dual fuel grill gives you both—without needing to buy, store, and maintain two separate cookers. The trick is finding the one that does each side well, so you are not left with a gas burner that barely sears or a charcoal pan that dumps ash everywhere.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the co-founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
In short, the best dual fuel grill for most people balances a powerful gas side with a versatile charcoal section, giving you real cooking flexibility without assembly headaches or flimsy parts.
How To Choose The Best Dual Fuel Grill
Buying a dual fuel grill means deciding which half you will use more. The gas side should fire up fast with even heat, and the charcoal side needs good airflow and easy ash cleanup. Here is what to look for in each area.
Gas Side: Burner Count and Layout
A simple two-burner gas section (usually 20,000 to 24,000 BTU total) is fine for burgers and hot dogs, but if you want to sear a steak on one side while gently cooking chicken on the other, look for three or more individually controlled burners. More burners let you create separate cooking zones—one hot, one cooler—on the same grate. Look at buyer reviews that mention whether the front burners get as hot as the back, because an uneven layout means cold spots on your food.
Charcoal Side: Pan Adjustability and Airflow
The best charcoal sections let you raise or lower the charcoal pan toward or away from the food. A height-adjustable pan (usually with a crank handle) lets you sear close to the coals for a crust or slow-cook farther away for ribs. Dampers on the lid (small adjustable vents) are equally important because they control oxygen flow and help you manage the internal temperature without lifting the lid and losing heat.
Build Quality and Ease of Assembly
Dual fuel grills have more parts than standard grills, and assembly is a common pain point in buyer reviews. Look for models that use heavy-gauge steel (thicker metal resists warping and rust over time) with porcelain-enameled grates (a glass-like coating on cast iron that resists rust and is easy to scrape clean). A slide-out ash tray on the charcoal side and a removable grease cup on the gas side make post-cook cleanup much faster—something reviewers consistently praise when it works and complain about when it does not.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Burner Combo + Smoker | Mid-Range | Smoking & gas cooking | 34,000 BTU, 1020 sq in | Amazon |
| Propane & Charcoal with Griddle | Mid-Range | Griddle & grill versatility | 41,500 BTU, 673 sq in | Amazon |
| Char-Griller E5030 | Mid-Range | Dual function, easy ash dump | 24,000 BTU, 870 sq in | Amazon |
| Royal Gourmet ZH3002N | Mid-Range | Side-by-side gas & charcoal | 20,000 BTU, 759 sq in | Amazon |
| Royal Gourmet ZH3002C | Mid-Range | Cover-included value | 20,000 BTU, 759 sq in | Amazon |
| Captiva Designs Combo | Premium | Porcelain-enamel quality | 37,000 BTU, 690 sq in | Amazon |
| Sophia & William Combo | Premium | Even heat, cast iron grates | 37,000 BTU, 690 sq in | Amazon |
| GREEN PARTY 3-Burner | Premium | Zone cooking with 3 burners | 37,000 BTU, 685 sq in | Amazon |
| MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 | Premium | 3 cooking methods in one | 37,000 BTU, 690 sq in | Amazon |
| Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon | Premium | Offset smoker & gas combo | 36,000 BTU, 1031 sq in | Amazon |
| Brand-Man Dual Fuel | Premium | Griddle & gas versatility | 30,000 BTU, 678 sq in | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner (ZH3005Y-SC)
1020 square inches total cooking space, including a dedicated offset smoker section that most dual fuel grills at this price skip entirely. This combo is for anyone who wants to smoke pork shoulders on a weekend while still having a gas burner ready for a quick midweek steak.
The gas side uses two stainless steel burners at 12,000 BTU each plus a 10,000 BTU side burner, giving you 34,000 BTU total—enough to sear well. The charcoal side has a 3-level adjustable pan with a max charcoal load of 3.3 pounds, so you can move coals closer for a crust or farther away for slower cooking. Buyers report that the grill “gives choices of BBQing all in one: gas, charcoal and smoker” and that it is “very easy to use.”
The honest downside is assembly. Multiple reviewers call the instructions unclear and say it was “a nightmare” without a video guide. The 87-pound weight also means you will want a helper. But once built, the versatility—gas grilling, charcoal grilling, and offset smoking from a single unit—makes the assembly effort a one-time price worth paying. If you want three cooking methods from one machine and can handle a tough build, this is the pick.
Why it’s great
- Includes an offset smoker, giving you three cooking methods (gas, charcoal, smoke) in one grill.
- 3-level adjustable charcoal pan lets you control searing distance from the coals.
- Side burner at 10,000 BTU is great for sauces or sides while the main grills are busy.
Good to know
- Assembly directions are poor; plan to watch a video guide and set aside a couple of hours.
- At 87 pounds, it is heavy—moving it around a patio requires two people.
2. Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Griddle & Side Burner
While the top pick wins on total cooking space and an offset smoker, this model fights back with a higher total BTU output (41,500 BTU versus 34,000 BTU) and a built-in griddle that the top pick does not have. That is about 22% more heat potential, so the gas side heats up faster and stays hotter—good for high-heat searing or cooking for a crowd.
The 673 square inches of cooking area is smaller than the top pick’s 1020 square inches, but the included perforated griddle pan lets you cook eggs, pancakes, or veggies alongside your burgers without needing a separate griddle top. Owners mention it “replaced our old grill” and that they are “very, very pleased with it.” The double-layer stainless steel lid is more warp-resistant than single-layer lids you see on many budget models.
This is the grill for the cook who wants to grill steaks and also make a batch of pancakes on the same machine, without buying a separate flat-top. Choose this over the top pick if you prioritize higher gas heat output and an integrated griddle over maximum cooking area and a smoker box.
Where it shines
- Highest BTU output in this list (41,500 BTU) means faster preheat and better searing.
- Built-in griddle expands cooking options beyond grilling—eggs, pancakes, veggies.
- Double-layer stainless steel lid resists warping better than single-layer hoods.
Worth noting
- Cooking area is on the smaller side (673 sq in) compared to other combos in this price tier.
- If you use only gas or only charcoal, the usable surface shrinks further—plan for that split.
3. Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Combo
This is the grill for someone who wants thick, heavy-gauge steel that feels like it will last a decade. Buyers consistently call out the “heavy, sturdy grill with thick sheet metal and durable matte powder coat” as its standout quality—something the thinner-walled budget combos cannot match.
The 870 square inches of total cooking space give you room for large cooks, and the two stainless steel burners deliver 24,000 BTU (about 7,000 watts) on the gas side. That BTU figure is lower than some competitors, but reviewers report real-world results: the gas side hits 300°F on one burner low, 350-375°F with both on low, and up to 500°F on high. The charcoal side features an EasyDump ash pan that saves cleanup time compared to grills where you have to tilt the whole firebox to empty ash.
Its single standout spec is the porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates, which hold heat for even searing and are easier to clean than bare cast iron. If you prioritize long-term durability over having the highest burner count, this is the one. skip it if you want three burners for separate heat zones—the Char-Griller E5030 has only two.
What stands out
- Heavy-gauge steel construction with thick sheet metal and matte powder coat for long-lasting durability.
- Porcelain-coated cast iron grates resist rust and hold heat evenly for better sear marks.
- EasyDump ash pan makes charcoal cleanup as simple as sliding a tray out.
The trade-offs
- 24,000 BTU gas output is lower than many combos—it heats well but not as fast as 40,000+ BTU models.
- Charcoal side can run hot; customers note it is hard to keep below 400°F without careful vent control.
4. Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo
The single number that matters most in this category is 759 square inches of total cooking area, which lands it between the largest and smallest options in this field. That is enough space for 30 burgers at once, making it a solid pick for moderate-sized gatherings where you need both gas and charcoal running simultaneously.
The catch you accept for the clean silver look and hidden propane tank storage (a clever cosmetic feature buyers appreciate) is the lower 20,000 BTU output from the two gas burners. That is about half the gas heat of the highest-output models here, so preheat will take longer and the gas side may struggle to maintain high searing temps in cold weather. Reviewers point out it took “hours” to assemble and that “the instructions could have emphasized a few items that would help.”
At its price point, you get a grill that looks polished, stores the propane tank out of sight, and handles small-to-medium cooks well, making it a fair pick for the buyer who values aesthetics and a tidy patio over raw burner power. If you need to sear fast for a crowd, the GRILL DEPOTS model at 41,500 BTU is a better match.
The upsides
- Doors on the cart hide the propane tank for a cleaner, more finished look on the patio.
- Slide-out ash tray and removable grease cup make cleanup quick on both sides.
- Two 6-inch wheels plus two lockable casters make positioning across a patio easy.
Keep in mind
- 20,000 BTU total on the gas side is on the lower end—expect slower preheat times.
- Some reviewers report assembly is difficult and note that the build quality feels thin in spots.
5. Royal Gourmet ZH3002C Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Cover
For the entry-level price, you get the same 759-square-inch layout as the ZH3002N but in a black finish and with a fitted grill cover included—a nice bonus that saves you a separate purchase. The two stainless steel burners still deliver 20,000 BTU total, same as the silver version.
What you give up is robust build quality. Multiple buyers flag that the metal feels “flimsy” and that parts like the wheel axles and coal grate can shift out of place during use. One reviewer summarized it bluntly: “Definitely not a Weber,” noting the short grilling surface and a charcoal side that leaks smoke, making true low-and-slow smoking difficult. The warming rack also sits low enough to block access to the main grate.
This is the exact grill for a casual backyard cook who wants dual fuel capability on a tight budget, knows the metal is thinner, and is willing to baby it a bit.
Why we’d pick it
- Includes a grill cover in the box—one less accessory to buy separately.
- Two large side shelves and integrated tool hooks keep prep and utensils organized.
- Same 759 sq in layout with slide-out ash tray as the pricier Royal Gourmet models.
A few caveats
- Build quality is thinner than higher-priced competitors; some metal parts bend during assembly.
- Charcoal side can leak smoke around the lid, making it hard to use as a proper smoker.
6. Captiva Designs Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo
This dual fuel grill is perfect for the cook who prioritizes porcelain-enameled cast iron grates over sheer cooking area, as this material upgrade resists rust, cleans easier, and distributes heat more evenly than standard steel. The 690 square inches total (520 primary plus 170 warming rack) is a modest size, but the grate quality makes every square inch more usable.
The three stainless steel burners produce about 37,000 BTU (11 kilowatts) total, with independent control so you can set different heat zones across the gas side. The charcoal side also uses an enameled charcoal tray, which helps prevent the rust common on bare steel trays. Shoppers say that assembly is “straightforward but needs two people” and that the “gas lights first time, good temp control on charcoal” make it a strong performer once set up.
The honest limit here is the price: at this level, you are paying mostly for the grate material and the brand’s customer support (they promise 24-hour response). If you are the kind of buyer who keeps a grill for years and values easy cleanup, the upgrade to porcelain-enameled grates is worth it. Just know that the overall cooking area is smaller than comparably priced combos.
Strong points
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates offer non-stick performance and rust resistance—a clear upgrade from standard steel grates.
- Tilted grease tray directs drippings straight into the hanging cup, making cleanup simpler.
- Full-size slide-out ash tray and grease tray let you clean both sides without disassembly.
Before you buy
- Cooking area is on the smaller side (690 sq in); max two steaks per side according to reviewers.
- Some owners feel the thin metal at certain points does not justify the higher price.
7. Sophia & William Charcoal and Propane Gas Grill Combo
At the same price point as the Captiva Designs model, this one gives you a slightly different feature set: three main burners at 28,650 BTU plus a dedicated 8,530 BTU side burner for simmering sauces or sautéing veggies—a useful extra if you host frequently. The total 690 square inches mirrors the Captiva unit, but the side burner adds a third cooking zone.
That extra burner means you can run charcoal for the main protein, gas for a quick-cooking side, and the side burner for a sauce or veggies all at once. The crank-adjustable charcoal tray raises or lowers the coals for fine temperature control, which buyers appreciate for “flexibility in cooking methods.” One reviewer called it “the perfect dual fuel grill for family gathering” and praised the “porcelain-enameled cast iron grates [that] heat evenly and are easy to clean.”
The one clear reason to choose it is the separate side burner. If you regularly cook sauces, simmer beans, or sear vegetables in a pan while the main grills are occupied, that third burner is a real convenience you will use every cook.
What we like
- Dedicated 8,530 BTU side burner lets you simmer sauces or sauté veggies without tying up the main grates.
- Crank-adjustable charcoal pan gives fine control over coal-to-food distance for searing or slow-cooking.
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates combine heat retention with non-stick, rust-resistant performance.
The downsides
- Some buyers report the heat shields on the gas side are insecure and shift when handling food.
- A few owners found the build quality thinner than expected for the price tier.
8. GREEN PARTY 3 Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo
The three separate main burners plus a side burner, all controlled individually for true zone cooking, make this the top pick for anyone who wants the most flexible gas-side heat management in a dual-fuel combo. At 37,000 BTU total, this model matches the highest-output units in this list, and the third burner gives you more precise heat zones than the two-burner models—so you can sear on the left, roast on the right, and hold warm in the middle.
The charcoal side uses a crank-adjustable pan and a lid-mounted damper system (small vents on top and front) that improves airflow control without opening the lid. That means you can manage the fire’s temperature more accurately for low-and-slow cooks or hot sears. Owners mention it is “super easy to use” and that “both the propane and the charcoal perform exceptionally well,” adding that it is “pretty much faultless” in use. The 685 square inches of cooking area (porcelain-enameled cast iron grates) is competitive for the tier.
At this price, you are getting a premium burner count and good airflow design. If the idea of having three independently controlled gas zones plus a versatile charcoal side sounds like your ideal setup, this model justifies the upgrade over two-burner alternatives. For the cook who demands maximum gas-zone control alongside charcoal versatility, this is the dual-fuel grill to buy.
Why it’s great
- Three independently controlled burners give you true zone cooking—sear, roast, and hold all at once.
- Lid-mounted dampers and hidden front vent control airflow without lifting the lid and losing heat.
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates hold heat evenly and are rust-resistant.
Good to know
- One reviewer reports uneven heat on the gas side, with the front barely getting hot while the back left corner works well.
- The metal top plate over a burner can warp if overheated, according to a buyer review.
9. MFSTUDIO 3 In 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo
The name says it: this “3 in 1” gives you gas grilling, charcoal grilling, and a side burner in one unit, all for a price that undercuts many equivalent models. The 690 square inches are split into 520 primary (porcelain-enameled cast iron) and 170 warming rack, and the three stainless steel burners plus side burner together produce 37,000 BTU.
What that money actually gets you is a well-packaged kit with solid build feedback from buyers. Reviewers call it “sturdy packaging” and note assembly is “easy, about one hour.” The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates and enameled charcoal tray resist rust better than steel. One reviewer noted that “a minor part issue [was] resolved quickly by outstanding customer service,” which speaks to the support backing the product.
The one reason to choose this over the GREEN PARTY model at a similar price is the slightly larger warming rack and the brand’s reputation for responsive service. If you are concerned about getting help if something goes wrong, the MFSTUDIO team gets consistent praise for their follow-through.
Where it shines
- Three-in-one design (gas + charcoal + side burner) gives you maximum cooking flexibility in a single footprint.
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates and enameled charcoal tray resist rust and clean up easily.
- Customer service is frequently praised in reviews for quick, helpful issue resolution.
Worth noting
- Some customers note uneven heat on the gas side burners that requires adjustment.
- The 690 sq in total area is moderate—large cooks may need to stagger batches.
10. Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner with Smoker
If you’re a backyard cook who wants to sear steaks on gas during the week and smoke a brisket on charcoal over the weekend without buying two separate grills, this unit redefines the category with a true offset smoker as the charcoal side, giving you 1031 square inches total cooking area—the largest in this list by a clear margin. The 281 square inches of firebox grate alone can hold 15 wings or 6 burgers, separate from the main 750 square inch primary area.
The gas side runs on three burners at 36,000 BTU, which is competitive but not class-leading. What makes this grill special for serious barbecue enthusiasts is the smoker-focused design: an adjustable firebox damper and a smokestack damper let you control airflow like a dedicated offset smoker, so you can actually smoke brisket and ribs at consistent low temperatures (225-250°F). Buyers call it “the best of both worlds—gas and charcoal in one grill” and note that the “solid build” handles both quick weeknight cooks and weekend smoking sessions well.
The downside is that this is a larger, heavier unit (comparable to the top pick in size at 35.6 x 68.9 x 50.8 inches) and requires more attention during smoking—one reviewer notes you need to tend the firebox about every 25 minutes to maintain temperature. If you are a pitmaster-in-training who wants one grill that can do quick gas cooks and serious charcoal smoking, this is the best option on this list. pass on it if you want a set-it-and-forget-it smoker; the top pick’s offset is more beginner-friendly. With 1031 total square inches, it’s the largest cooking surface in this guide—and the only one packing a true offset smoker into a dual-fuel frame.
What stands out
- True offset smoker design with adjustable dampers gives you precise temperature control for low-and-slow smoking.
- 1031 sq in total cooking area (750 primary + 281 firebox grate) is the largest capacity in this guide.
- Porcelain-coated cast iron grates resist rust and hold heat for even searing.
The trade-offs
- Requires frequent firebox attention (roughly every 25 minutes) to maintain steady low smoking temperatures.
- The smoker side needs careful fire management; not a set-it-and-forget-it experience.
11. Brand-Man Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Griddle
The single number that matters most in this category is 678 square inches of total cooking area, and this model scores a 472-square-inch cast iron cooking area plus a 206-square-inch warming rack, with the gas side including a griddle insert for eggs, pancakes, fajitas, or smash burgers.
Buyers praise the “heavy-duty steel construction” and note the “dual fuel (propane/charcoal) is versatile” with the griddle side “working well for breakfast and fajitas.” The front panel converts into a condiment station, and the dual foldable shelves plus tool hooks keep your workspace organized. The 3 stainless steel burners put out about 30,000 BTU (8.8 kilowatts), which is enough for standard grilling but not as high as the 37,000 BTU models.
The trade-off for that griddle versatility is a slightly lower BTU output and a cooking area that some reviewers feel is overstated because the warming rack sits low and can interfere with taller items on the main grate. One buyer mentioned that at this price point, it “feels like a grill.” If you specifically want a griddle plus charcoal, this is a unique option, but be aware you are paying a premium for that combination compared to the GRILL DEPOTS model which also includes a griddle, making the price-to-value read as a specialized premium rather than a general bargain.
The upsides
- Gas side includes a griddle insert for flat-top cooking—eggs, pancakes, fajitas—alongside charcoal grilling.
- Heavy-duty steel frame feels solid with precise part fit during assembly, according to buyers.
- Front condiment station and dual foldable shelves keep tools and seasonings organized while grilling.
Keep in mind
- At 30,000 BTU, the gas output is lower than many premium combos—preheat will be slower.
- Some buyers find the usable cooking area less than expected because the warming rack blocks taller items.
Understanding the Specs
BTU: What It Really Means
BTU (British Thermal Unit, a standard measure of heat energy) tells you how much heat the burners can produce. A higher number means the gas side will preheat faster and hold higher temperatures for searing. But a 40,000 BTU grill with poor burner layout can cook worse than a 24,000 BTU grill with even heat distribution. Think of BTU as potential heat, not the guarantee of great cooking—always check reviews to see if the heat reaches all parts of the grate evenly.
Square Inches: Raw Space vs Usable Space
Manufacturers often list total cooking area by adding the primary grate, warming rack, and any smoker sections together. A 1020-square-inch number sounds huge, but the warming rack (typically 150-200 sq in) is not ideal for direct cooking. Focus on the primary cooking area and the smoker section size if you use one. For most families, 500-700 square inches of primary space is enough for 8-12 burgers or 2-3 racks of ribs.
Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grates
These are a material upgrade from plain steel or cast iron. The porcelain coating creates a non-stick surface that resists rust (important for outdoor cooking), spreads heat more evenly across the grate, and is easier to scrape clean after a cook. If you see “porcelain-enameled cast iron” on a spec sheet, it is a genuine quality marker that affects how your food sears and how long the grates last.
Temperature Control: Dampers and Adjustable Pans
On the charcoal side, look for two things: a height-adjustable charcoal pan (lets you move coals closer or farther from food for temperature management) and lid-mounted dampers (small vents that control oxygen flow). Without both, you will struggle to hold low smoking temps (225-250°F) or achieve a hot sear (500°F+). The gas side should have at least two independent burners so you can create a hot zone and a cool zone on the same grate.
FAQ
Can I use both the gas and charcoal sides at the same time?
Is a higher BTU always better on the gas side?
How much assembly should I expect with these grills?
Can I use the charcoal side as a smoker?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most people, the dual fuel grill winner is the 2-Burner Combo with Offset Smoker (ZH3005Y-SC) because it gives you gas grilling, charcoal grilling, and a real offset smoker in one unit—triple the cooking methods for a price that undercuts many two-method combos. If you want high-speed gas heat and a built-in griddle for breakfast or fajitas, grab the GRILL DEPOTS Propane & Charcoal with Griddle. And for serious barbecue enthusiasts who need genuine low-and-slow smoking alongside a gas section, the standout is the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo and its 1031-square-inch offset smoker design.