Choosing between the instant heat of a gas grill and the deep, smoky flavor of charcoal is a daily compromise that no backyard cook should have to make. A combination grill bridges that divide, giving you both fuel types in a single cooking station so you can sear a steak on the gas side while slow-smoking ribs on the charcoal side without juggling two separate machines.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. I spend my time analyzing grill specifications, comparing BTU outputs and cooking surface layouts, studying heat-management designs, and sifting through thousands of owner reviews to find which dual-fuel rigs actually deliver on their promise without falling apart after one season.
After researching dozens of models and comparing real-world performance data, I’ve narrowed the field to the top performers that offer genuine versatility. This guide breaks down the best charcoal gas grill combination options available today and explains exactly what separates a great dual-fuel setup from one that simply takes up patio space.
How To Choose The Best Charcoal Gas Grill Combination
A combination grill is a significant investment in your outdoor cooking setup, and the wrong choice can leave you with a unit that does neither fuel type well. Focus on the core specifications that determine whether a dual-fuel rig works as a true all-in-one station or merely as a compromised version of both.
Prioritize BTU Output and Burner Configuration
The gas side of any combination grill lives and dies by its BTU output and burner layout. A single burner delivering 12,000 BTUs on a small cooking zone works fine for burgers and hot dogs, but three burners pushing 36,000 BTUs give you true zone cooking — high-heat searing on one burner and gentle indirect heat on another. Look for at least 24,000 total BTUs on the gas side if you plan to cook for more than four people. Stainless steel burners resist corrosion better than painted steel alternatives, and a piezoelectric or electronic ignition system saves the frustration of hunting for matches every time you cook.
Evaluate the Charcoal Side’s Temperature Management
The charcoal section of a combo grill is often the weaker half. A height-adjustable charcoal pan is the single most important feature here, allowing you to raise the coal bed for direct searing or lower it for slow, indirect cooking. Without this adjustability, your charcoal side becomes little more than a fixed-heat fire pit. Integrated dampers on the lid and a smokestack provide the airflow control necessary for low-and-slow smoking. If the charcoal grate sits too low in the firebox, adding fresh fuel mid-cook becomes a hassle — check for side access doors that let you reload charcoal without lifting the entire cooking grate.
Assess Total Cooking Area and Layout
Total square inches is a useful number, but the layout of that space matters far more. A 1,000-square-inch grill with 500 inches of dead space around the edges cooks far less food than a 700-square-inch unit with a smart, compact firebox. Pay attention to the primary cooking area vs. warming racks — warming racks that sit too low will char buns instead of keeping them warm. If smoking is a priority, the offset smoker’s square footage must be included in your calculation, as that dedicated chamber handles whole briskets and pork shoulders without crowding the main grates. Measure your patio or deck space before buying, because these units can stretch over five feet in width.
Check Material Thickness and Warranty Coverage
Combination grills live in harsh outdoor conditions, and the gauge of the steel determines whether your unit lasts three seasons or ten. Heavy-gauge steel with a high-temperature powder coat resists rust far longer than thin, stamped sheet metal that warps under high heat. Porcelain-coated cast-iron grates retain heat for superior sear marks and resist rust better than bare cast iron. A one-year limited warranty is standard at the entry level, but premium brands like Weber and Oklahoma Joe’s back their products with longer coverage periods and easier parts replacement. Check whether the burners, grates, and firebox are individually warrantied — some manufacturers cover the burners for five years but the body for only one.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo | Premium | True offset smoking & gas grilling | 36,000 BTU / 1,031 sq in / offset firebox | Amazon |
| Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3-in-1 | Premium | Griddle, grill & smoker versatility | 30,000 BTU / 1,260 sq in / included griddle | Amazon |
| MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 Grill Combo | Mid-Range | Even heat distribution & easy cleanup | 37,000 BTU / 690 sq in / cast-iron grates | Amazon |
| Char-Griller Dual-Function E5030 | Mid-Range | Sturdy construction & side burner | 24,000 BTU / 870 sq in / EasyDump ash pan | Amazon |
| Grills House ZH3005Y-SC | Mid-Range | Offset smoker & side burner combo | 34,000 BTU / 1,020 sq in / 3-level charcoal pan | Amazon |
| Grills House ZH3005-SC | Mid-Range | Compact footprint & easy temperature control | 34,000 BTU / 823 sq in / dual thermometers | Amazon |
| Weber Genesis E-325 | Premium Gas | Premium gas grilling with sear zone | 3 PureBlu burners / 641 sq in / cast-iron grates | Amazon |
| Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 | Premium Digital Charcoal | Digital charcoal smoking with app control | 225°F in 8 min / 1,050 sq in / gravity-fed hopper | Amazon |
| Ninja FlexFlame ProConnect | Premium Smart System | App-connected multi-fuel cooking system | 5-in-1 / electric & propane / app control | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Smoker and Grill
Oklahoma Joe’s brings real pit-building heritage to the combination grill market, and the Canyon Combo reflects that lineage with a dedicated offset smoker chamber that actually works for low-and-slow barbecue. The charcoal side features an adjustable firebox damper and a smokestack damper, giving you genuine control over airflow and smoke circulation — not just a charcoal tray sitting under a gas-style lid. The gas side delivers 36,000 BTUs across three burners, providing enough power to reach searing temperatures quickly while maintaining even heat across the 750-square-inch primary cooking area. The bonus 281-square-inch firebox grate expands your cooking real estate when you need extra space for wings or sausage during a party.
Porcelain-coated cast-iron grates on both sides resist rust and hold heat for consistent sear marks, and the high-temperature painted steel body stands up to multiple seasons of outdoor exposure. The removable ash pan in the firebox simplifies cleanup after charcoal cooks. Owners consistently praise the unit’s ability to hold steady smoking temperatures once the dampers are dialed in, and the gas side heats up in under ten minutes for weeknight convenience. Some users note that the unit sits on two locking casters and two fixed wheels — upgrading to four casters makes moving the heavy steel frame easier on uneven patio surfaces.
The Canyon Combo occupies a 68.9-inch width, so measure your available space before committing. The lid-mounted temperature gauges read within about 10 degrees of actual grate-level temperature, which is acceptable for smoking but serious pitmasters may want an additional probe thermometer. Assembly takes roughly two hours with clear instructions, and the overall build quality stands above most mid-range dual-fuel options in this price tier.
What works
- Genuine offset smoker design with adjustable dampers for temperature control
- 36,000 BTUs across three burners heat the gas side fast and evenly
- Porcelain-coated cast-iron grates hold heat and resist rust
- Bonus firebox grate adds 281 square inches for extra cooking space
What doesn’t
- Only two casters limit mobility on uneven ground
- Lid gauges read slightly off from actual grate temperature
- Requires frequent fire tending for extended low-and-slow cooks
2. Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3 in 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill Griddle and Smoker Combo
Char-Griller’s Flex Fuel Plus expands the dual-fuel concept by adding a pre-seasoned flat-top griddle that swaps into the gas side, transforming your combination grill into a breakfast station, fajita cooker, and smash-burger machine without requiring a separate appliance. The charcoal side delivers that deep smokiness for weekend barbecue sessions, while the 30,000 BTU three-burner gas section handles weekday quick cooks with automatic ignition. With 1,260 total cooking square inches, this rig provides more surface area than most combo grills in its class, giving you room to cook for a crowd on both fuel types simultaneously.
The adjustable charcoal tray and dual dampers on the smoker side give you meaningful temperature management, allowing you to dial in airflow for slow smoking or open it up for high-heat charcoal grilling. The gas side burns clean and even across all three burners, and the automatic ignition lights reliably with a button press. Owners love the flexibility of swapping between grates and griddle without tools, and the side shelf provides solid prep space. Some buyers report that the included griddle surface rusted quickly after exposure to moisture, requiring immediate seasoning and careful drying after each use. The thin painted steel on certain body panels has drawn criticism from users who expected heavier-gauge metal at this price point.
Assembly requires an impact driver due to the large number of fasteners, and the instructions could be clearer for first-time builders. Once assembled, the grill feels sturdy on its cart, and the wood-fired smoker box adds authentic flavor that pellet grills struggle to match. For anyone who wants to cook bacon and eggs alongside smoked brisket without owning three separate cookers, the Flex Fuel Plus delivers exceptional versatility despite some material compromises.
What works
- Included flat-top griddle adds breakfast and fajita capability without extra purchase
- 1,260 square inches total cooking area handles large gatherings
- Automatic ignition lights the gas side instantly every time
What doesn’t
- Griddle surface prone to rust if not seasoned and dried immediately
- Thin painted steel on some body panels raises durability concerns
- Assembly requires significant time and an impact driver for best results
3. MFSTUDIO 3 In 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner
MFSTUDIO’s entry into the dual-fuel space distinguishes itself with thickened porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates that provide excellent heat retention and a non-stick, rust-resistant surface. The 37,000 BTU total output from three stainless steel burners gives the gas side genuine cooking power, and the independent charcoal zone operates with its own double-layer lid for separate temperature control. The 690-square-inch total cooking area is more modest than some competitors, but the layout is efficient — 520 square inches of primary cooking space on the grates with a 170-square-inch warming rack that actually sits high enough to keep food warm without scorching. The side burner adds another 10,000 BTUs for sauces, sides, or a pot of beans.
The adjustable enameled charcoal tray lets you raise or lower the coal bed for different cooking techniques, and the stainless steel flame tamers on the gas side distribute heat evenly to minimize hot spots. Dual-lid thermometers on each side let you monitor temperatures without lifting the lid and losing heat. Cleanup is well-designed: a full-size slide-out grease tray under the gas section and a dedicated ash drawer under the charcoal section make post-cook maintenance quick. Owners consistently praise the build quality relative to the price, noting that the grill feels heavier and more solid than expected. Assembly takes about an hour with two people, and the instructions are clearer than most in this category.
A few users have noted uneven heat distribution across the gas burners, requiring some experimentation with burner combinations to find the right zone for delicate foods. The grill measures 61 inches wide, so ensure your patio has adequate clearance. Overall, the MFSTUDIO combo delivers premium features like cast-iron grates and dual thermometers at a price that undercuts many competitors with similar specs, making it a strong value pick for families who cook a mix of quick weeknight dinners and weekend barbecue projects.
What works
- Porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates offer excellent heat retention and rust resistance
- Slide-out grease tray and ash drawer simplify post-cook cleanup
- Dual-lid thermometers allow temperature monitoring without lifting the lid
What doesn’t
- Gas burners can produce uneven heat across the cooking surface
- 690 square inches is smaller than many dual-fuel competitors
- Assembly requires two people for best results
4. Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner 24,000 BTU Propane Gas and Charcoal Combination Grill and Smoker E5030
Char-Griller’s E5030 has been a staple in the dual-fuel category for years, and its longevity on the market speaks to the solid engineering underneath the powder-coated steel body. The 24,000 BTU two-burner gas side is less powerful than some three-burner competitors, but the burners are positioned to create distinct temperature zones — one side for high-heat searing and the other for indirect cooking. The 870-square-inch total cooking area includes a primary grate that fits a full brisket flat on the charcoal side or a dozen burgers on the gas side. The EasyDump ash pan is a genuinely useful feature: a simple lever mechanism drops ashes into a removable tray without requiring you to scoop or scrape the firebox.
The charcoal side runs hot — owners report it’s difficult to keep temperatures below 400°F even with the dampers partially closed — which makes it better suited for direct grilling than low-and-slow smoking without modifications. The porcelain-coated cast-iron grates distribute heat evenly and clean up easily with a wire brush. Assembly takes longer than the advertised 45 minutes, with some users reporting missing hardware that requires a trip to the hardware store. The side burner adds 10,000 BTUs for sides or sauces, and the side shelf with utensil hooks provides useful prep space. Owners consistently describe the build quality as “sturdy” and “heavy,” with thick gauge sheet metal that resists flexing under load.
For buyers who want a straightforward dual-fuel rig without unnecessary complexity, the E5030 delivers reliable performance at a reasonable investment. The gas side lights reliably with the electronic ignition, and the dual temperature gauges give reasonable readings for both chambers. Just be prepared for a longer assembly process and keep in mind that the charcoal side excels at high-heat grilling rather than slow smoking straight out of the box.
What works
- EasyDump ash pan simplifies charcoal cleanup with a lever mechanism
- Heavy-gauge sheet metal body feels sturdy and resists flexing
- Porcelain-coated cast-iron grates provide even heat and easy cleaning
What doesn’t
- Charcoal side runs hot and is difficult to keep below 400°F for low-and-slow cooking
- Assembly takes significantly longer than the advertised 45 minutes
- Some units arrive missing hardware, requiring additional trips to the store
5. Grills House ZH3005Y-SC 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner
Grills House delivers an impressive feature set for the price with the ZH3005Y-SC, combining a dual-fuel main cooking area with a dedicated offset smoker and a side burner in a single, 87-pound package. The total cooking area of 1,020 square inches breaks down into 333 square inches each for the gas and charcoal sides, a 157-square-inch warming rack, and a 197-square-inch offset smoker chamber — enough space to cook for a large party or smoke a full brisket while still grilling burgers and hot dogs. The 34,000 BTU total output comes from two 12,000 BTU stainless steel main burners and a 10,000 BTU side burner, providing adequate power for the gas side and a dedicated station for sauces or sides.
The three-level adjustable charcoal pan gives you genuine heat control on the charcoal side, allowing you to position the coal bed for direct searing, indirect cooking, or smoking. The offset smoker features a side door that makes adding charcoal and removing ash simple without disturbing the cooking grate. The piezoelectric ignition system lights without requiring batteries, and the dual lid-mounted thermometers help you monitor both cooking chambers at a glance. Owners report assembly taking under two hours with the help of a video, and the unit arrives well-packaged to prevent shipping damage. Multiple verified reviews highlight excellent customer service from the seller, with one buyer receiving a replacement part immediately after noticing a minor cosmetic ding.
The alloy steel construction is functional rather than luxurious, and the overall finish is a basic black powder coat that will require a cover for long-term durability in wet climates. The 67.7-inch width demands significant patio space, and the offset smoker chamber is small enough that large briskets may require trimming. For budget-conscious buyers who want gas convenience, charcoal flavor, and actual smoking capability in one rig, the ZH3005Y-SC punches well above its price point.
What works
- Includes a dedicated offset smoker chamber plus side burner for maximum versatility
- Three-level adjustable charcoal pan enables genuine heat zone control
- Excellent customer service and quick replacement parts from the seller
What doesn’t
- Basic alloy steel construction and powder coat finish require a cover for longevity
- Offset smoker chamber is small and may require trimming large briskets
- 67.7-inch width demands significant patio or deck space
6. Grills House ZH3005-SC 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Side Burner
The Grills House ZH3005-SC shares the same 34,000 BTU dual-burner platform as its offset-smoker sibling but in a slightly more compact, smoker-free configuration that suits smaller patios or buyers who prioritize grilling area over smoking capacity. The 823-square-inch total cooking area divides evenly into 333 square inches each for gas and charcoal, with a 157-square-inch warming rack that keeps finished food hot while you finish the rest of the cook. The right-side shelf provides extra prep space, and the side burner lid doubles as a work surface when not in use. The piezoelectric ignition system fires up the gas side without batteries, and dual lid-mounted thermometers on each side give real-time temperature readings.
The charcoal side features the same height-adjustable pan found on the larger ZH3005Y-SC, plus a smoke stack and side air vent for airflow control. This combination gives you meaningful temperature management — raise the pan for high-heat searing or lower it for indirect cooking and smoking. Owners consistently note that the grill is easy to assemble with an online video, with most completing the build in under two hours. The 78.3-pound weight makes it manageable for two people to move into position on the included casters, and the unit feels stable once assembled. Multiple verified reviews mention that the grill has held up well after months of regular use, with no signs of warping or rust on the main body.
The same alloy steel construction and basic powder coat finish mean this unit benefits from a grill cover for year-round outdoor storage. The 823-square-inch total area is adequate for small families but may feel cramped when cooking for large gatherings. If you don’t need a dedicated offset smoker and want a clean, straightforward dual-fuel setup with good temperature control, the ZH3005-SC offers strong value in a narrower footprint than its sibling.
What works
- Compact 63-inch width fits smaller patios while still offering dual-fuel cooking
- Height-adjustable charcoal pan with smoke stack and air vent enables real temperature control
- Consistent build quality with no reported warping after months of use
What doesn’t
- 823 square inches is tight for cooking for large groups or parties
- Alloy steel and powder coat finish require a cover for long-term outdoor storage
- No offset smoker chamber limits low-and-slow smoking capability
7. Weber Genesis E-325 Liquid Propane Gas Grill
Weber’s Genesis E-325 sits in a different category from the dual-fuel combos above — it is a premium gas grill through and through — but it earns its place here as the gold standard for the gas half of any combination cooking setup. If you already own a quality charcoal grill and want a gas companion that delivers restaurant-grade results, the Genesis E-325 provides the benchmark. Three PureBlu burners with a tapered design create consistent flame patterns and even heat across the 641-square-inch cooking surface, and the extra-large sear zone concentrates intense heat for perfect crust on steaks and chops. The porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates retain heat effectively, and the FLAVORIZER bars catch drippings to create vaporized flavor while channeling grease away from the burners to prevent flare-ups.
The grease management system with a pull-out tray makes cleanup straightforward, and the warming rack sits high enough to keep buns and sides warm without toasting them prematurely. The side tables provide solid prep space, and the WEBER CRAFTED accessory system allows you to add a pizza stone, griddle, or Dutch oven with custom-fit grillware. Owners consistently report that the Genesis heats up in under 10 minutes and maintains temperature with remarkable stability, even in windy conditions. The build quality is typical Weber — heavy-gauge steel, tight-fitting lid, and components that feel designed for a decade of use. Assembly takes 1.5 to 2 hours using the BILT app, and Amazon offers professional assembly in some regions.
The Genesis E-325 does not include a charcoal side, so it only belongs in this guide if you plan to pair it with a separate charcoal grill or already own one. The price reflects Weber’s premium positioning, and the 641-square-inch main cooking area is smaller than many dual-fuel competitors. A small number of owners have reported production issues with frame alignment, though Weber’s customer service typically resolves these quickly. For gas-only performance, no other grill at this size matches the Genesis E-325’s combination of heat consistency, build quality, and long-term durability.
What works
- PureBlu burners deliver even heat distribution across the entire cooking surface
- Extra-large sear zone provides intense heat for perfect steak crusts
- FLAVORIZER bars boost grilled flavor while preventing flare-ups
What doesn’t
- Gas-only design requires a separate charcoal grill for dual-fuel cooking
- 641 square inches is less cooking area than most dual-fuel combo grills
- Premium price positions it above many combination alternatives
8. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 Digital Charcoal Smoker Grill
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 redefines what a charcoal grill can do by replacing manual damper management with a digital fan that precisely maintains your set temperature. The gravity-fed vertical charcoal hopper feeds fuel continuously, allowing up to 16 pounds of briquettes to burn for up to eight hours without reloading. The grill reaches 225°F in just eight minutes for smoking, or 700°F in 15 minutes for high-heat searing — speeds that rival gas grills while delivering authentic charcoal flavor. The 1,050 square inches of cooking space is generous, and the reversible cast-iron grates offer a flat side for searing and a textured side for smoking. The Masterbuilt app lets you monitor and adjust temperature, set timers, and track meat probes from your phone, adding genuine convenience to charcoal cooking.
Owners consistently praise the smoke flavor quality, noting that the Gravity Series produces bark and smoke rings that rival traditional offset smokers. The ability to mix lump charcoal with wood chunks in the hopper gives you real control over smoke intensity without needing a separate smoker box. The stainless steel front and side shelves provide solid prep space, and the two porcelain-coated warming racks keep food hot during long cooks. The unit does have known failure points: the digital fan can fail after extended use, the lid switch is prone to melting from heat exposure, and the app can disconnect when left idle. These issues are common enough that owners recommend keeping spare parts on hand for the fan and lid switch.
Assembly is a demanding 3.5-hour process with mediocre instructions, and the first-time seasoning burn requires careful attention to avoid damaging the finish. The power button on the control panel has been reported to crack over time, and the seals around the doors degrade after a few seasons. Despite these flaws, the Gravity Series 1050 remains the most capable charcoal smoker-grill hybrid under , especially for anyone who wants set-it-and-forget-it temperature control without switching to pellets or gas.
What works
- Digital fan maintains precise temperatures, reaching 225°F in 8 minutes or 700°F in 15 minutes
- Gravity-fed hopper runs up to 8 hours on 16 pounds of charcoal without refueling
- App control adds convenience with temperature monitoring and meat probe tracking
What doesn’t
- Digital fan and lid switch are known failure points that may require replacement
- Assembly takes over 3 hours with poor instructions and missing startup details
- App can disconnect when left idle, requiring reconnection mid-cook
9. Ninja FlexFlame ProConnect Grill & Smoker
Ninja’s FlexFlame ProConnect represents a fundamental rethinking of the backyard grill, combining propane flames with electric-powered convection fan technology in a single smart cooking system. The 5-in-1 design handles grilling, smoking, roasting, griddling, and pizza making (with sold-separately accessories) — but the headline feature is the super-heated continuous air system that circulates heat and smoke evenly throughout the cooking cavity. The digital control panel lets you set exact temperatures from 200°F to 600°F and maintain them without fiddling, and the preheat reaches 600°F in just seven minutes. The app connectivity provides real-time temperature monitoring, doneness notifications, and remote adjustments, making this one of the most technologically advanced grills on the market.
The propane side uses three burners rated at 38,000 BTUs, and the electric component powers the convection fan and digital controls. The Ninja Woodfire Technology uses just two cups of wood pellets to deliver authentic smoke flavor, producing real BBQ bark and smoke rings with minimal fuel consumption. The 424-square-inch main cooking area fits up to three 7-pound chickens, four racks of ribs, or 18 burgers — smaller than many traditional combo grills but adequate for most families and small gatherings. Owners report remarkably even cooking with no hot or cold spots, and the direct heat from the propane burners combined with the convection airflow produces juicy interiors with crispy exteriors on everything from chicken wings to whole roasts.
The main drawbacks are the system’s complexity and the need for additional purchases to unlock full functionality. The unit requires a 3-prong outdoor extension cord and a 20-pound propane tank (neither included), and the griddle plate, pizza stone, and other accessories are sold separately. The wood pellets last only 30 to 45 minutes, requiring reloads for extended smoking sessions. Some users have reported temperature inconsistency at low settings (set 225°F, grill reads 248°F), and the open-back design with front doors can lose heat in windy conditions. For tech-savvy cooks who want precision temperature control, real smoke flavor, and the versatility of a multi-appliance cooking system, the FlexFlame ProConnect is a genuinely innovative option that justifies its premium position.
What works
- Convection fan circulates heat and smoke evenly for consistent cooking results
- Digital control panel maintains exact temperatures from 200°F to 600°F
- App connectivity provides remote monitoring, adjustments, and doneness alerts
What doesn’t
- Requires both a propane tank and an outdoor extension cord for operation
- Griddle, pizza stone, and other accessories are sold separately
- Wood pellets burn through in 30-45 minutes, requiring frequent reloads for smoking
Hardware & Specs Guide
BTU Output and Burner Configuration
Total BTU output measures the raw heat energy your gas burners can produce, but more BTUs don’t always mean better cooking — distribution matters. A 24,000 BTU two-burner configuration that creates distinct hot and cool zones can outperform a 40,000 BTU four-burner setup with poorly spaced burners. Look for burners rated at 12,000 BTUs or higher for searing capability, and verify that your grill’s burner tubes are stainless steel for corrosion resistance. Piezoelectric igniters generate a spark mechanically without batteries, while electronic igniters require a power source but typically light more reliably in damp weather.
Cooking Surface and Material Quality
Total square inches includes primary cooking grates, warming racks, and optional smoker chambers — but primary cooking area is the number that determines how many burgers or steaks fit at once. Porcelain-coated cast-iron grates are the gold standard for heat retention and rust resistance, followed by bare cast iron (which retains heat but rusts easily) and stainless steel (rust-resistant but less effective at holding heat). Warming racks should sit at least five inches above the primary grate to prevent food from burning. For the charcoal side, a height-adjustable pan with at least three position settings gives you real temperature control — without it, your charcoal section is effectively a single-temperature fire pit.
FAQ
Can I use both the gas and charcoal sides of a combo grill at the same time?
How does the cooking area compare between a combo grill and a standalone gas or charcoal unit?
What maintenance does a charcoal gas grill combination require compared to a single-fuel grill?
Is temperature control harder on a combo grill than on a dedicated smoker or gas grill?
How long do combo grills typically last, and what parts wear out first?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most backyard cooks who want genuine dual-fuel versatility without compromise, the winner in the charcoal gas grill combination category is the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo because it delivers a true offset smoker with proper dampers and a powerful 36,000 BTU gas side in one durable package. If you want flat-top griddle cooking alongside your grill and smoker, grab the Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus. And for the tech-savvy cook who prioritizes precision digital temperature control and app connectivity, nothing beats the Ninja FlexFlame ProConnect.