Choosing a single outdoor cooker that smokes a brisket low-and-slow, sears a steak screaming hot, and also air-fries wings sounds unrealistic — but that exact capability defines the modern combined grill market. The pain isn’t finding a grill; it’s ending up with one that does everything adequately but nothing well, leaving you with dry meat or a cold firebox.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. I spend my time studying market data, cross-referencing burners, BTUs, and cubic inches, and analyzing thousands of verified owner reports to determine which multi-fuel machines actually deliver on their combined promises.
Whether you need charcoal smoke infusion, propane convenience, or app-controlled pellet precision, the right best all in one grill depends on matching your cooking style to real hardware specs — not marketing checklists.
How To Choose The Best All In One Grill
A combined grill’s worth isn’t in the number of functions printed on the box — it’s in how those functions perform under real fire. Prioritize build material, cooking area distribution, and fuel flexibility over a long, vague feature list.
Cooking Area & Fuel Type
Not all square inches are equal. A large offset smoker may flex 900+ sq in of total space but require constant fire management for low-and-slow cooks. A pellet grill offers set-and-forget convenience but delivers less pronounced smoke flavor than a charcoal offset. Dual-fuel units let you sear with propane while smoking with charcoal in the same cook, but the transition zone between sides can create cold spots. Match the fuel layout to your primary cooking style — gas for weekday speed, charcoal for weekend projects.
Steel Thickness & Temperature Control
Thin, painted steel grills rust quickly and fail to hold steady heat, forcing you to feed fuel constantly. Heavy-gauge steel (14-16 gauge is ideal) retains thermal energy and resists warping. For offset smokers, look for adjustable dampers on both the firebox and smokestack. For pellet grills, a PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller maintains temperature within a tight range, preventing the sawtooth temperature swings that ruin long smokes.
Griddle Inserts & Accessory Compatibility
An all-in-one grill that includes a flat-top griddle insert expands your menu to breakfast, teppanyaki, and fajitas without needing a separate appliance. Verify that the griddle fits the gas side grates and is made of pre-seasoned or heavy-duty cast iron — thin nonstick sheets warp under high heat. Dedicated smoke drawers, pellet hopper cleanout systems, and included covers also distinguish well-equipped units from bare-bones models.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo | Premium | True dual-fuel offset & gas | 750 sq in + 281 sq in firebox | Amazon |
| Z GRILLS VC-7002B | Premium | Set-and-forget pellet smoking | PID temp control ±5°F | Amazon |
| Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus | Premium | Gas + charcoal + griddle combo | 1260 total sq in / 30,000 BTU | Amazon |
| Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL | Mid-Range | Electric versatility with app control | 180 sq in / 7 functions | Amazon |
| Cuisinart FlavorBoost CEG-1302 | Mid-Range | Apartment-friendly electric smoker | 1800W / 154 sq in ceramic surface | Amazon |
| Char-Griller E5030 | Mid-Range | Dual-fuel gas & charcoal cart | 870 sq in / 24,000 BTU gas side | Amazon |
| Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Offset | Mid-Range | Classic offset smoking on a budget | 616 sq in main + 263 sq in firebox | Amazon |
| SKOK 3-in-1 Combo | Budget | Portable gas/griddle/charcoal | 331 sq in total / 45,000 BTU | Amazon |
| Royal Gourmet CC2036F | Budget | Large capacity charcoal offset | 1200 sq in total / 3-level pan | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel
The Canyon Combo earns top spot because it doesn’t compromise one fuel type for the other. The charcoal offset side features a dedicated firebox with adjustable dampers for real low-and-slow smoking, while the 36,000 BTU three-burner propane side fires up hot and even for weeknight grilling. The porcelain-coated cast-iron grates resist rust and hold heat for consistent sear marks across both chambers.
Owners report accurate dual lid-mounted temperature gauges and a heavy-gauge steel build that handles frequent use without warping. The side firebox provides an extra 281 sq in of grilling surface for wings or burgers while the main chamber smokes a pork shoulder. Assembly takes a bit of time, but the instructions are clear and the parts fit precisely.
For pitmasters who want genuine offset smoking capability married to a full gas cooking station, this rig delivers real versatility without feeling like a compromise. The charcoal side requires standard fire management, but the payoff is authentic bark and smoke ring development that pellet grills struggle to match.
What works
- Real offset smoker with firebox door for fuel access
- 36,000 BTU gas side heats fast and maintains even temp
- Porcelain-coated cast-iron grates resist rust
- Dual gauges provide accurate chamber monitoring
What doesn’t
- Heavy unit — moving requires effort without proper casters
- Charcoal side needs frequent fire tending (~25 min intervals)
- Gas side runs hot even on low with burners on
2. Z GRILLS VC-7002B Pellet Grill & Smoker
Z GRILLS packs a PID controller into an affordable pellet platform, delivering temperature stability within five degrees Fahrenheit — a spec that typically costs hundreds more from premium brands. The 28-pound hopper supports up to 28 hours of continuous cooking, making it a genuine set-and-forget machine for overnight brisket or party-sized batches of ribs and chicken.
The all-steel construction with high-temperature powder coating holds up well against weather, and the included rain cover adds peace of mind. Owners note that proper startup and shutdown cycles are critical for avoiding pellet jams and maintaining consistent burn. The large cooking area fits 30 burgers or six racks of ribs without crowding.
While pellet flavor is milder than an offset’s charcoal smoke, the PID accuracy simplifies long cooks for beginners who want consistent results without constant adjustments. Replacement parts are inexpensive and readily available, making this a smart long-term ownership option.
What works
- PID controller holds temperature within ±5°F
- 28-hour continuous cook from full hopper
- Solid steel build with included weather cover
- Affordable replacement parts available
What doesn’t
- Milder smoke flavor compared to charcoal offsets
- Hopper cleanout needed to prevent damp pellets
- Leg labeling may be reversed during assembly
3. Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3-in-1
The Flex Fuel Plus covers three distinct cooking surfaces in one footprint: a charcoal side for smoky flavor, a three-burner 30,000 BTU propane grill, and a pre-seasoned flat-top griddle that swaps in for the gas grates. The 1,260 total square inches give you room to smoke a brisket on charcoal while griddling breakfast on the gas side, all simultaneously.
Owners love the dual dampers on the charcoal chamber for smoke control and the adjustable charcoal tray for heat management. The included griddle handles bacon, fajitas, and smash burgers without needing a separate appliance. The build feels sturdy, though some units have shown rust on the grilling tray after moisture exposure — a cover is highly recommended.
Assembly is more involved than simpler grills and requires an impact driver for some hardware. The gas side features convenient electronic ignition, and the overall footprint is large enough for serious backyard cooking without dominating your patio.
What works
- Truly three cooking methods — gas, charcoal, griddle
- 1260 sq in handles large gatherings
- Pre-seasoned griddle insert for flat-top cooking
- Adjustable charcoal tray for temperature control
What doesn’t
- Assembly is labor-intensive with many parts
- Grill tray susceptible to rust without prompt drying
- Thin steel on some panels raises longevity concerns
4. Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL OG951BL1
The Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL bridges the gap between indoor countertop versatility and real outdoor smoking. Using electric power and a small batch of woodfire pellets (just half a cup), it delivers authentic smoke flavor without open flame, propane tanks, or charcoal ash. The Bluetooth connectivity and companion app let you monitor two protein probes, receive flip notifications, and track cook time from your phone.
Seven functions — grill, smoke, air fry, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate — make this the most versatile compact unit on the market. The 180 sq in surface fits two racks of ribs or a 10-pound brisket, and the XL crisper basket handles wings and fries with air-fryer crispness. The built-in thermometer offers presets from rare to well for different protein types.
Owners consistently praise the smoke output, noting that twenty minutes of pellet burn produces more visible smoke than many standalone electric smokers. The pellet hopper is small and must be filled during ignition, and residual pellets may smolder briefly after shutdown, but the clean-up is fast thanks to the nonstick grate and grease tray.
What works
- Genuine woodfire smoke from electric power source
- Bluetooth app with real-time temperature alerts
- Heats up fast and maintains stable temperature
- Easy cleanup with nonstick cooking surface
What doesn’t
- Pellet hopper is small and hard to access when hot
- Runs faster than true low-and-slow offsets
- Cooking area limited compared to full-sized rigs
5. Cuisinart FlavorBoost CEG-1302
The Cuisinart FlavorBoost shrinks the all-in-one concept into a tabletop electric form factor for apartment dwellers, RV owners, and small patios. Despite its compact size, it packs an 1800-watt heating element, a built-in wood-pellet smoke drawer, and a moisture cup for steaming — enabling grill, smoke, air fry, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate functions from a standard GFCI outlet.
The smart temperature probe monitors internal meat temp and automatically switches the unit to Keep Warm when your target is reached, eliminating guesswork. The ceramic nonstick surface cleans easily, and the included air fry basket, recipe guide, and pellet starter pack mean you can cook immediately. The cooking area fits six burgers, and the smoke drawer produces real results in both quick smoke mode and extended smoke mode.
Owners note that the aluminum drip pans are not sold separately, so you’ll need to source alternatives after the two included pans wear out. The unit is heavier than it looks at 34 pounds, but the footprint stays small enough for balcony storage. It is not weather-sealed for permanent outdoor installation.
What works
- Smart probe auto-switches to Keep Warm
- Real wood-pellet smoke in a portable electric unit
- Air fry function delivers crispy results without oil
- Compact footprint fits small outdoor spaces
What doesn’t
- Aluminum drip pans are not sold as replacements
- Not built for permanent outdoor weather exposure
- Small surface area limits batch cooking for large groups
6. Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function Combo
The Char-Griller E5030 is a true dual-fuel cart that gives you propane on one side and charcoal on the other, with 870 total square inches of cooking space. Two stainless steel burners on the gas side produce 24,000 BTUs for direct searing, while the charcoal chamber features an EasyDump ash pan that lets you clear residue mid-cook without lifting grates. Dual temperature gauges let you monitor each side independently.
Owners report that the gas side hits 500°F on high for solid sear marks, while the charcoal side runs hot naturally — closing the air vent is necessary to keep it below 400°F. The porcelain-coated cast-iron grates resist rust and produce good heat retention. Assembly requires significant effort, and some units arrived missing lock washers, so a magnet check of included hardware is wise.
The combo layout allows flexibility: use gas for quick burgers while the charcoal side smokes chicken, or fire both for a large party. Thicker gauge steel would improve heat retention, but for the price point, the build quality outperforms many entry-level brands. Adding a gasket around the charcoal lid helps seal in smoke.
What works
- Gas side reaches 500°F for high-temperature searing
- EasyDump ash pan simplifies charcoal cleanup
- Dual temperature gauges for each cooking chamber
- Porcelain-coated cast-iron grates retain heat well
What doesn’t
- Assembly takes much longer than advertised
- Charcoal side hard to keep below 400°F
- Missing hardware reported in some units
7. Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Offset Smoker
For pitmasters who want an authentic offset experience without jumping to pro-level pricing, the Highland Offset delivers heavy-gauge steel construction, a 616 sq in main cooking chamber, and a 263 sq in firebox grate for grilling. The adjustable firebox and smokestack dampers give the user genuine control over airflow and temperature — essential for producing true bark and smoke ring development.
Owners consistently recommend simple modifications — a baffle plate, stack extension, and high-temperature gasket seal — to improve temperature consistency across the cooking surface. The thick steel holds heat far better than cheap offset smokers, and the large rubber-tread wheels roll smoothly across patios and uneven ground. The porcelain-coated wire grates heat up quickly and recover temperature fast after the lid opens.
This is a pure smoking machine, not a multi-function gadget. It excels at low-and-slow cooking for brisket, pork shoulder, and ribs, but lacks any gas assist. The learning curve for temperature management is real — beginners must practice damper adjustments and fuel loading intervals. The paint on the firebox will burn off during initial use, which is normal and expected.
What works
- Heavy-gauge steel retains heat for consistent smoking
- Real offset design with adjustable dampers
- Large rubber wheels handle uneven terrain
- Cooking capacity handles 3 briskets or 7 chickens
What doesn’t
- Requires modifications for even temperature across chamber
- Steep learning curve for new offset users
- Firebox paint burns off — normal but surprising
8. SKOK 3-in-1 Charcoal/Gas/Griddle Combo
The SKOK 3-in-1 keeps a small footprint but packs three cooking methods into one portable cart. Four independently controlled stainless steel tube burners generate a total of 45,000 BTUs across a cast iron grill grate, a cast iron griddle pan, and an included enameled charcoal box. The griddle area covers 184 sq in for breakfast or teppanyaki, while the traditional grilling side handles 146 sq in for burgers and steaks.
Owners highlight the ability to connect a full-sized propane tank for extended cook sessions, making it suitable for tailgating and RV trips. The dual-lid design helps retain heat when using only one cooking surface, and the grooved oil drip tray channels grease into the collection cup for easy cleanup. The included paper towel holder and bottle opener add convenience without sacrificing space.
Build quality feels solid for its price point, and the push-button electronic ignition lights reliably. The charcoal option is a separate box insert rather than an integrated firebox, so it won’t replace a dedicated offset smoker — but it offers enough flexibility for casual users who want to experiment with different fuel types. The enameled cooking grate offers a lightweight alternative to the cast iron for easier handling.
What works
- True 3-in-1 with separate gas, charcoal, and griddle modes
- Connects to full-sized propane tank for long sessions
- Cast iron surfaces provide excellent heat retention
- Compact enough to fit in an SUV for tailgating
What doesn’t
- Charcoal box is a small insert, not a full smoking chamber
- Limited cooking space for large gatherings
- Nonstick griddle may require careful seasoning
9. Royal Gourmet CC2036F Barrel Charcoal Grill
The Royal Gourmet CC2036F offers the largest total cooking area at the most accessible price point in this lineup. With 668 sq in of primary cooking grates, a 260 sq in warming rack, and a 272 sq in offset smoker, you’re looking at 1,200 sq in of total capacity — enough for large event gatherings of 8-10 people. The side offset smoker attaches firmly to the main body for heat and smoke circulation, and it can double as additional grilling space for small side dishes.
Owners are surprised by the temperature stability this unit holds for its price point, noting consistent performance across multiple brisket cooks. The three-level adjustable charcoal pan holds up to 7.7 pounds of coal and allows you to control heat intensity by moving the pan closer or farther from the cooking grates. The side charcoal door gives you easy access to add fuel without removing the main grates, while the removable grease drip cup and charcoal pan simplify cleanup.
Build quality uses heavy-gauge porcelain-enameled steel wire, but the 87-pound assembled weight means this is not a grill you move around frequently. Assembly is straightforward, though owners recommend adding high-temperature gasket trim around the main chamber lid and smoker door to prevent heat and smoke leakage. This grill rewards patient pitmasters who want maximum capacity for minimum investment.
What works
- Massive 1,200 sq in total cooking area for big events
- Three-level adjustable charcoal pan for heat control
- Side charcoal door for adding fuel mid-cook
- Removable drip cup and pan simplify cleanup
What doesn’t
- Needs gasket trim to prevent heat loss from gaps
- Some units require heat sink stone to maintain temp
- Not portable at 87 pounds assembled weight
Hardware & Specs Guide
BTU Ratings & Burner Count
BTU (British Thermal Units) measures the heat output of gas burners, but higher numbers don’t always mean better searing. Cook chamber design, grate material, and ambient conditions all affect how that heat reaches the food. A 24,000 BTU grill with porcelain-coated cast-iron grates can outperform a 36,000 BTU unit with thin wire grates because the cast iron radiates heat more evenly. Match burner count to your cooking zones — two independent burners allow indirect heat zones, while three or more give you precise temperature gradients across the cooking surface.
Steel Gauge & Weather Resistance
The steel thickness of your grill body and firebox determines how well the unit retains heat and resists rust over time. Thinner steel (20-gauge or higher number) heats up quickly but cools just as fast, causing temperature fluctuations that ruin long smokes. Heavier-gauge steel (14-16 gauge) holds thermal mass but increases the overall weight significantly. All painted steel grills will eventually show rust if stored uncovered in rain — a custom-fitted vinyl cover is essential for maintaining appearance and structural integrity across multiple seasons.
FAQ
Can I use charcoal and gas at the same time on a dual-fuel grill?
How often should I replace the grates on my all-in-one grill?
Do pellet grills provide enough smoke flavor compared to offset smokers?
Can I leave my electric outdoor grill plugged in during rain or snow?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most pitmasters, the best all in one grill winner is the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo because it pairs a genuine charcoal offset smoker with a powerful 36,000 BTU gas side, covering both low-and-slow and high-heat cooking without compromise. If you want set-and-forget convenience with app control, grab the Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL. And for maximum capacity on a tight budget, nothing beats the Royal Gourmet CC2036F.