When buying a grill, one of the first questions that will come to your mind is: what it is going to run on? This is not always easy because you will need to choose between charcoal and gas. We can’t deny that both have their own specialties.
While the smoky flavor of a charcoal grill is unmatched, the gas-powered grill lets you cook hassle-free like no other. If you are confused between the two, then there’s a way to enjoy the best of both worlds – a gas charcoal combo barbeque.
With the combo unit, you can have the convenience and speed of a gas grill on one hand and the authentic smoky flavor of charcoal on the other. While it proves to be a great investment too, it is easier said than done.
The market is so flooded with different brands and models that finding the one that suits your needs best can be tricky. To take away the stress of decision making, our team has spent hours reviewing a plethora of gas charcoal combo grills.
After reviewing each product thoroughly, we have shortlisted a few products for you. Read on to find out more about each. If you are in a hurry to order then we suggest that you go with the editor’s choice, the Weber 15501001 Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill, for its easy assembly, precise temperature control, and one-touch cleaning system.
| Product Names | Item Dimensions | Material | ||
| #1. Char-Griller 5050 Duo Gas-and-Charcoal Grill | 62” L x 28” W x 50” H | Heavy steel construction and porcelain coated cast iron cooking grates | See Price | |
| #2. Char-Broil Gas2Coal 3-Burner Liquid Propane and Charcoal Hybrid Grill | 52.5” L x 24.6” W x 47.5” H | Stainless Steel | See Price | |
| #3. Royal Gourmet ZH3002-S 3-Burner Gas Charcoal Grill Combo | 63.8” L x 22” W x 43.7” H | Stainless Steel | See Price | |
| #4. Oklahoma Joe’s Charcoal/LP Gas/Smoker Combo | 74” L x 31.5” W x 50.6” H | porcelain-coated cast-iron grates and heavy-gauge steel construction | See Price | |
| #5. Dual Fuel Combination Charcoal/Gas Grill | 64” L x 28” W x 49.75” H | Stainless Steel | See Price | |
| #6. Weber 15501001 Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill | 48” L x 30” W x 43.5” H | Porcelain Coated Steel | See Price | |
| #7. Smoke Hollow 4-in-1 LP Gas Charcoal Smoker Searing BBQ Grill | 82” L x 23” W x 54” H | Stainless Steel | See Price |
- #1. Char-Griller 5050 Duo Gas-and-Charcoal Grill
- #2. Char-Broil Gas2Coal 3-Burner Liquid Propane and Charcoal Hybrid Grill
- #3. Royal Gourmet ZH3002-S 3-Burner Gas Charcoal Grill Combo
- #4. Oklahoma Joe's Charcoal/LP Gas/Smoker Combo
- #5. Dual Fuel Combination Charcoal/Gas Grill
- #6. Weber 15501001 Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill
- #7. Smoke Hollow 4-in-1 LP Gas Charcoal Smoker Searing BBQ Grill
- Benefits And Downsides Of Getting A Gas Charcoal Smoker Grill Combo
- Things To Look For When Buying A Combo Grill
- Related Questions
#1. Char-Griller 5050 Duo Gas-and-Charcoal Grill
The Char-Griller 5050 Duo Gas-and-Charcoal Grill features a sturdy steel construction that ensures long-lasting durability. This grill has two primary cooking surfaces, one gas and one charcoal, giving you a total cooking area of 1,260 square inches for grilling and smoking food. There is also a cast iron side burner for additional cooking capacity.
The cast-iron cooking grates are coated with porcelain to ensure good heat retention and an easy-to-maintain surface. Both the gas and charcoal grill sides have built-in temperature gauges and warming racks to help you control the temperature.
Starting the grill is simple with the push of a button and the electronic ignition fires up the side burner or gas burners. The three stainless steel burners produce 40,800 BTUs that can achieve a temperature of up to 500 degrees on the gas side of the grill. An adjustable charcoal grate helps maintain a precise heat control so you can cook low and slow or get a hot sear.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 62” L x 28” W x 50” H
- Weighs 169 Pounds
- Versatile Charcoal System
- Plenty of Storage
- Double Bottom Construction
- Grate Lifter For Easy Charcoal Addition
- 1,260 sq Inches Total Cook Space
- Condiment Basket and Ash Pan
User/Customer reviews
Most users said that assembly is super easy and allows you to get grilling your favorite food with ease. Customers also mentioned that the grill retains heat well and keeps the food warm for a long time on the warming rack. A few users said that there were a few bolts missing in the installation kit but this is something you can easily find in the hardware store if necessary.
Conclusion
This is a great grill with dual cooking options for those who enjoy the speed, convenience, and easy heat control of gas grills, but also appreciate the smoky flavor of charcoal-cooked meat. We feel that this product lets you save money while also indulging in extravagance when you want to. Overall, it gives you a good return on the money spent.
#2. Char-Broil Gas2Coal 3-Burner Liquid Propane and Charcoal Hybrid Grill
When you want the ease of cooking along with great taste, we suggest that you check out the Char-Broil Gas2Coal 3-Burner Liquid Propane and Charcoal Hybrid Grill. This product is extremely powerful and convenient with a 3-burner gas grill that can convert into a charcoal grill within 60 seconds without the use of any major tools.
The gas burners can produce 40,000-BTU and they can be used to ignite the charcoal, so you don’t need a lighter. It gives users 420 square inches of total cooking surface. There is also a 12,000-BTU side burner with a lid that helps you get the maximum use of the space.
The stainless steel burners and porcelain-coated cast iron grates add more durability to the product and help it to last for several years. There is also a warming rack that provides 120 square inches of space to keep your grilled food warm for longer or until you are ready to eat.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 52.5” L x 24.6” W x 47.5” H
- Weighs 110 Pounds
- Stainless Steel Burners
- Side Burner
- Lid-Mounted Temperature Gauge
- 5-Year Warranty on Burners
- 420 Square Inch Cooking Surface
- Porcelain-Coated Cast Iron Grates
User/Customer reviews
Several users said that the assembly is tedious as there are many small parts that take a lot of time to get aligned but once you are done, it is a good quality grill. Some people also remarked that cooking on the grill is easy as there is good heat distribution and the burners are at a good distance from the grill surface. A few customers did warn that the grill causes a lot of grease buildup at the bottom making it difficult to clean after use.
Conclusion
While this may not be a full-fledged substitute for a real charcoal grill, it does the job of infusing a rich smoky flavor to selected food items while you enjoy your gas grilling for the rest. This is a perfect small barbeque for everyone in the family – those who prefer hassle-free cooking and those who can’t settle for less than the classic grill flavor. Overall, we feel that it does its job as expected.
#3. Royal Gourmet ZH3002-S 3-Burner Gas Charcoal Grill Combo
The third product on our list is Royal Gourmet ZH3002-S, a gas and charcoal combo grill that features a heavy-duty structure and a total cooking space of 742 square inches. There are stainless steel burners that produce 25,500 BTU output and ensure even heat distribution.
There are two fixed side tables on either side that provide an additional working space or storage area to keep the condiments. The grill lids are made from double-layer stainless steel for sturdiness and come with a built-in thermometer. Users can adjust the height of the charcoal pan and regulate air vents to control temperature.
Constructed using organic silicone material, the firebox can tolerate very high temperatures, up to 600 degrees. It comes with two wheels and two casters for easy movement while grilling. It also includes a full-size ash pan at the bottom of the charcoal firebox, an oil tray, and a collection cup.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 63.8” L x 22” W x 43.7” H
- Weighs 105.8 Pounds
- Large Grill Surface
- Quick and Even Heating
- Adjustable Height Charcoal Pan
- Tool Organizer
- Heat and Smoke Control
User/Customer reviews
Many users said that this is a good gas and charcoal combo grill if you want to enjoy both while barbequing in your backyard with family and friends. However, several customers also warned that the assembly is not easy, and removing the grill grates after use is also tough. A few users also mentioned that the product is not very durable.
Conclusion
The Royal Gourmet ZH3002-S (see Amzon) is a well-built gas and charcoal combo grill that is a good choice for any grilling enthusiast. If you have some mechanical know-how then this assembly will not be too tedious for you, otherwise you might need a mechanics’ help to put it together. Although this is not the most durable grill out there, it offers you good value for your money.
#4. Oklahoma Joe’s Charcoal/LP Gas/Smoker Combo
The next gas charcoal combo grill on the list is Oklahoma Joe’s Charcoal/LP Gas/Smoker Combo which offers a cooking area of 1,060 total square inches. This grill has heavy-gauge steel construction and comes with a built-in thermometer. There are separate cooking chambers for high-capacity smoking, gas grilling, and charcoal grilling.
There are three stainless steel burners that are built to last, and they provide an output of 36,000 BTUs total that ensures even cooking. With six porcelain-coated cast-iron grates, the total primary cooking surface is 750 square inches. There is also a 310 square inch cooking surface in the firebox chamber.
In the gas grill chamber, there are three 12,000 BTU burners. There is a professional temperature gauge that helps in the precise monitoring of both the cooking chambers. The firebox door has an air damper that adds to the convenience of use and cleanup.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 74” L x 31.5” W x 50.6” H
- 1,060 Total Square Inch Cooking Surface
- 750 Square Inch Primary Cooking Surface
- 3 x 12,000 BTU Burners
- 12,000 BTU Side-Burner
- Cool Touch Handles
- Lid-Mounted Temperature Gauges
User/Customer reviews
Many users said that this gas and charcoal grill combo is good quality and built well to last for a long time. Some people also said that the grill is heavy-duty and that heat distributes evenly across the burners. A few customers mentioned that the charcoal door does not line up properly which causes the paint on the corner to chip eventually.
Conclusion
The Oklahoma Joe’s Charcoal/LP Gas/Smoker Combo (shop now) is a well-built and versatile grill that comes with features designed to cook your favorite food perfectly. With heavy-gauge steel construction, multiple dampers, convenient fire access, and professional temperature gauges, you get all that you can ask for at a reasonable price. Overall, this grill would be a good investment.
#5. Dual Fuel Combination Charcoal/Gas Grill
Just as the name suggests, this is a dual fuel gas and charcoal combo grill that has a gas side with three stainless steel tube burners. There is also a charcoal side comprising of cast iron cooking grids with a total cooking space of 557 square inches. It can accommodate 32 burgers total, 16 burgers on each side.
The gas grill offers a total heat output of 24,000 BTUs. It includes integrated ignition for all the burners along with rubberized grip control knobs. There are also chrome-plated warming racks to keep your cooked food warm once its cooked, which provide an additional 188 square inches of space to the total.
The grilling equipment comes with two wheels which offer easy mobility around your deck or backyard. There is also a painted steel control panel with stainless steel trim. Some of the additional features include two temperature gauges, spacious side shelves, a bottle opener, and tool holders.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 64” L x 28” W x 49.75” H
- Weighs 103 Pounds
- Frame Made From Alloy Steel
- 3 Stainless Steel Tube Burners
- 188 Square Inch Total Warming Rack Space
- 557 Square Inch Total Cooking Space
- Painted Steel Control Panel
User/Customer reviews
Most users who have bought the gas charcoal grill combo said that this is just the equipment you need with a three-burner grill and a side burner. Several customers said that it takes about 2.5 hours to assemble using the equipment provided in the box. A few customers warned that the pictures in the instruction book are not labeled making it difficult to assemble.
Conclusion
This is a nice and sturdy grill you will love to use once you are able to put the pieces together to assemble it correctly. Food can be grilled on both sides at the same time, and the cooked items come out extremely delicious. Overall, this product offers a good price to performance ratio.
#6. Weber 15501001 Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill
This Performer Deluxe grill is from one of the most well known barbeque brands, Weber. It comes with an exclusive Touch-N-Go gas ignition system that enables you to light up the charcoal briquettes with the push of the button. It also lets you control the grill temperature by adjusting the dampers without needing to lift the lid.
One of the things we like best about the Weber 15501001 (learn more) is the handy, removable, backlit LCD countdown cook timer that features a large readout. It is attached to the grill and can be removed easily if you wish to take it indoors with you. It is easy to set the timer for preheating and grilling sessions.
This gas and charcoal combo grill comes outfitted with heavy-duty BBQ System cooking grates that can be used with any other items from Weber’s Gourmet BBQ System cookware collection. It also comes with a classically designed porcelain-enameled bowl and lid with a One-Touch Cleaning System. The high-capacity ash catcher also makes grilling hassle-free and easy to clean up after use.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 48” L x 30” W x 43.5” H
- Weighs 91 Pounds
- 22-Inch Diameter Bowl
- Removable Aluminum Ash Catcher
- Aluminized Steel Cleaning System
- Removable LCD Cook Timer
- Built-in Lid Thermometer
- 3D Assembly Instructions
- Tuck-Away Lid Holder
User/Customer reviews
Those who have bought this Weber gas charcoal combo grill are completely in love with their purchase as it looks and works as great as expected. Many users said that it took them little more than an hour to assemble from start to finish. However, while the total cooking area, grilling quality, build, and warranty are great, the equipment is too heavy to move easily from one place to another.
Conclusion
A Weber is a Weber after all, and it proves itself once again. With sturdy construction and ease of use, the Weber 15501001 Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill can be used to braise, smoke, grill, and slow cook a variety of dishes. For years, Weber grills have been a leader in the market and this model just reasserts that belief. Overall, it gives you great value for your money.
#7. Smoke Hollow 4-in-1 LP Gas Charcoal Smoker Searing BBQ Grill
The Smoke Hollow 4-in-1 LP Gas Charcoal Smoker stands out for its quality construction and superior performance. It can be used as a propane gas grill or a charcoal grill along with the smoker box for indirect cooking. This is a gas and charcoal combo grill sporting a total of 1,100 sq. in. of cooking space.
There are four stainless steel burners with electric ignition and porcelain-coated cast-iron grates. There is also a side burner that adds to the cooking capacity of this combo grill. You can enjoy multiple styles of cooking for family members, friends, and guests.
The ceramic infrared side burner can sear seafood and steaks to lock in the flavor. You can enjoy the convenience of a three-burner grill that can accommodate up to 20 burgers at a time. It also comes with an adjustable grate height for temperature control and the chrome-plated warming rack helps keep your food warm for longer.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 82” L x 23” W x 54” H
- 1,100 Square Inch Total Cooking Space
- 4 Stainless Steel Burners
- Heavy Steel Construction
- Porcelain-Coated Cooking Grates
- Ceramic Infrared Side Burner
- Adjustable Charcoal Grate Height
User/Customer reviews
Many users said that this gas and charcoal combo grill is hard to assemble, but once you put it together, it becomes easy to use to cook a variety of items. Several customers used the grill to smoke and grill food with ease. A few users said that the firebox did not hold up the heat well while others mentioned that the paint flaked in a few areas.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a nice barbeque that you can use for your family and guests then the Smoke Hollow 4-in-1 LP Gas Charcoal Smoker Searing BBQ Grill (learn more) is a good choice. Although the grilling equipment is slightly hard to put together and bulky, once assembled it can deliver good results. Overall, we feel that this gas charcoal smoker is one of the best that money can buy.
Benefits And Downsides Of Getting A Gas Charcoal Smoker Grill Combo
Now that you have gone through the best gas charcoal smoker combo grills on the market, it is important to understand which one suits your requirements best. Before you go ahead and make your purchase, consider some of the benefits and downsides of getting a gas and charcoal smoker combo grill. First, let’s take a look at the benefits:
With the combo grill, users get to enjoy the best of both worlds. You get the convenience of a gas grill along with the authentic smoking flavor that we all crave. This is probably one of the biggest advantages of owning a combo grill that attracts most people. So based on the type of model, you may use it as a smoker or cook with wood chips to use it as a real barbequing machine.
The combo grill also saves you the money of purchasing two different gas and charcoal grills for different family members. Although most of the combo grills are pricier than any single-fuel grill, they are not that expensive when you combine the price of two high-end single fuel grilling machines. So, if your family members have different preferences or you constantly wish to cook in gas and charcoal then a combo grill is a good choice.
If you are limited on space in your house or apartment, the combo grill can prove to be a better option than getting two grills, however they are bulkier than a single barbeque. Alternatively, if you are not restricted by space but you still want a combination grill then you might prefer to find a conversion model.
Downsides
While there are many benefits of having a gas and charcoal combo grill at home, there are also some downsides that make this an unpopular choice for some. Below we have listed some of the downsides of using a gas charcoal smoker combo grill.
High price
While the combo grill gives you the best of both worlds, it is only possible if you are ready to shell out a good amount of money. If you choose to buy a poor quality grill then this won’t be of much use to you. To ensure that it stands the test of time, you must get a high-end and expensive grill.
Not effective cooking
You have probably heard the saying ‘jack of all trades, master of none’. So if you are a perfectionist then expect to be disappointed. Although this grilling equipment gives you speed and convenience in one place, you may find the taste lacking in both varieties of grilled food. You may prefer to invest in a high-end gas grill and a cheaper charcoal model.
Reduced cooking space
It is important to understand your specific requirement because the cooking spaces mentioned above may be adequate but it is a combined one. If you mostly want to cook food quickly as soon as possible on a gas grill, you will be cutting down on this cooking space considerably.
Bulkier size
The combination gas and charcoal grills come with two different cooking surfaces that are located side by side, making the machine larger and bulkier than any traditional grill. If you have a modest backyard or enough outside space then the extra bulk may be fine or else a huge combo grill can make the space cramped for you.
Things To Look For When Buying A Combo Grill
#1. Check whether or not the grill makes use of other fuel other than the stated two. For example, some models may come with a smoker box to let you add wood pellets if needed.
#2. Look at the potential food yield from a combination of grilling equipment. As a rule of thumb, aim for a food output for at least 10 people (12-16 burger patties) at a time.
#3. Pay attention to the overall construction and build of the grilling machine. We would suggest looking for porcelain enamel cast iron cooking grates and infrared burners.
#4. The charcoal section of the combo grilling unit should have air vents and dampers. This helps control the heat and temperature in the charcoal grill.
#5. Make sure you have quick and easy access to charcoal as you will need to replace them as you cook. This is important to prevent your grill from burning out.
Related Questions
Can you cook in a gas and charcoal grill simultaneously?
There are some hybrid grills such as the Char-Broil Gas2Coal 3-Burner Liquid Propane and Charcoal Hybrid Grill that let you cook simultaneously. Thus, you get the convenience of cooking food quickly and also smoking meat in the authentic way. Make sure to research the grill you’re looking at to see if it can work simultaneously.
Which is better – gas or charcoal grills?
Due to complexity and mechanisms, the gas grills are more expensive than their charcoal counterparts. If you don’t wish to spend a lot on grilling equipment then a charcoal one may be a good choice for you. However, if you want more advanced features and optimal safety then a gas grill is the winner.
Is it possible to make food cooked in a gas grill taste like charcoal?
Yes, you may if you add a smoker box to it. You just need to add some wood chips to the smoker box to infuse that authentic smoky flavor into your meat and vegetables. Just remember to cover the food with the grill lid for optimum results.
What’s the recommended BTU for gas grills?
To be on the safe side, we suggest that you go for a number between 75 and 100 BTUs per square inch. This ensures that the grill heats up quickly and can successfully maintain a good and efficient cooking capacity.
See Also:
How to Secure Your Grill from the Wind
Broil King Baron 320 vs Signet 320: Which Is Better
How to Tell When Grilled Chicken is Done
