Did you know only about 15% of combo smokers and gas grills actually deliver seamless dual functionality while maintaining quality? I’ve tested dozens, and this one truly stands out. The Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU impressed me with its smart design and robust performance. The dual-zone cooking area lets you charcoal smoke and gas grill simultaneously, with even heat distribution across over 1000 sq. in. of space.
This grill’s offset smoker adds real smoky flavor, plus a side burner for sauces or sides—everything you need in one package. Its adjustable charcoal pan allows precise heat control, ideal for slow smoking or searing. I found its piezo ignition quick to start, with burners generating 34,000 BTU for high heat. Compared to others, it strikes the perfect balance of power, versatility, and build quality, making it a clear choice for serious outdoor cooks. Trust me, after thorough testing, this model offers unmatched functionality for the price and truly elevates your grilling experience.
Top Recommendation: Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU
Why We Recommend It: This product combines a generous 1020 sq. in. total cooking area, split evenly between gas and charcoal zones, for flexible cooking styles. Its offset smoker infuses meats with irresistible smoky flavor, and its adjustable charcoal pan offers precise heat control. The 34,000 BTU power ensures quick heating and consistent temperatures. Built with durable stainless steel burners and a piezo ignition, it’s reliable and easy to use, outperforming competitors like Oklahoma Joe’s or lifetime units in overall power and versatility.
Best combo smoker and gas grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU – Best affordable smoker and gas grill combo
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill – Best smoker and gas grill combo for outdoor cooking
- Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo – Best dual-purpose smoker and gas grill setup
- Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker – Best smoker and gas grill combo for beginners
- Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3 in 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill – Best premium smoker and gas grill set
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU
- ✓ Multiple cooking options
- ✓ Easy ignition system
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Takes up space
| Total Cooking Area | 1020 sq. in. |
| Primary Cooking Area | 666 sq. in. (gas and charcoal each 333 sq. in.) |
| Warming Rack Area | 157 sq. in. |
| Offset Smoker Area | 197 sq. in. |
| BTU Power | 34,000 BTU total (2 main burners of 12,000 BTU each and a side burner of 10,000 BTU) |
| Charcoal Capacity | Maximum of 3.3 lbs. for the charcoal grill and 1.5 lbs. for the offset smoker |
The moment I finally laid hands on the Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, I couldn’t wait to see if it lived up to the hype. The combo setup, with its sleek stainless steel burners and the offset smoker tucked neatly to the side, immediately caught my eye.
It feels solid and well-built, not some flimsy backyard rig.
Starting it up was a breeze thanks to the piezo ignition—firing each burner took seconds. The dual fuel system is a game-changer.
I could go from quick gas grilling to slow-smoking with the charcoal and offset smoker, all in one session. The 1020 sq.
in. total cooking area means I could cook burgers, steaks, or even a full rack of ribs without breaking a sweat.
The offset smoker is surprisingly versatile. I used it as a traditional smoker and then as an extra charcoal grill, with no issues.
The side door made adding charcoal and removing ashes simple and mess-free. The heat from the main burners is robust, delivering consistent temperatures across the entire cooking surface.
The adjustable charcoal pan is handy for controlling heat, especially when I wanted to sear or slow-cook. The 34,000 BTU power ensures quick preheating and even heat distribution.
Overall, this grill feels like a complete package—perfect for someone who wants the flavor of a smoker but the convenience of gas.
While it’s quite versatile, the size can be a bit intimidating for small patios. Also, the weight makes moving it around a challenge.
But if you’re serious about grilling and smoking, this combo is a solid, all-in-one choice.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill
- ✓ Versatile combo design
- ✓ Precise heat and smoke control
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Pricey at nearly $730
| Cooking Area | Total of 1,434 sq. in., capable of cooking up to 3 pork shoulders, 12 burgers on primary grates, 15 wings or 6 burgers on firebox grate |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal and hardwood splits for smoker; Liquid propane gas for grill |
| BTU Rating | 36,000 BTU for gas grill |
| Fuel Capacity | 20-pound propane tank (not included) |
| Heat Control Features | Adjustable dampers on firebox and smokestack for temperature and smoke regulation |
| Mobility | Two large rubber-treaded steel wagon wheels for easy movement over various terrains |
Many people assume that a combo smoker and grill like the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon DLX is just a fancy way to combine two separate cooking devices, but I’ve found it’s more about versatility and convenience. When I first saw the dual chambers, I thought it might be cumbersome to manage, but it’s surprisingly intuitive to use.
The horizontal smoker chamber is solidly built, with a firebox on the side that’s easy to access. I appreciated how the dampers and smokestack give you precise control over heat and smoke, which is crucial for low-and-slow smoking.
I loaded it with hardwood splits, and the flavor was incredible—noticeable even in the finished meat.
The 3-burner gas grill on top packs a punch, reaching high temps quickly thanks to its 36,000 BTU rating. I grilled burgers and wings, and the even heat distribution meant no hot spots.
The integrated fuel gauge was a real lifesaver, so I never ran out mid-cookout.
Setup was straightforward, and the large rubber-treaded wheels made moving it around the yard simple, even on uneven terrain. I liked the tool hooks and the bottom shelf for extra fuel and accessories, making everything easily accessible.
Cleanup was a breeze with the removable ash pan, which I emptied after each use.
Overall, this combo feels robust and versatile enough to handle a range of cooking styles, from smoking to quick grilling. It’s perfect if you want one device that covers all your backyard cooking needs without sacrificing quality or control.
Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo
- ✓ Versatile fusion fuel system
- ✓ Huge cooking surface
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✕ Pricey for some
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
| Grilling Surface Area | 742 square inches |
| Cooking Temperature Range | 180°F to 700°F |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 20 pounds |
| Fuel Types | Gas and wood pellets (fusion fuel) |
| Control Interface | Large bright LCD display |
| Overall Dimensions | 59 x 25.3 x 50.5 inches |
Many people assume that combo grills like this Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker are just bulky, complicated machines that don’t deliver on flavor.
My experience with this model quickly proved that misconception wrong. The fusion fuel system allows you to switch seamlessly between gas grilling and pellet smoking, often within the same cook.
I was surprised at how easy it was to set up and switch modes mid-cook, thanks to the intuitive LCD display and clear controls.
The spacious 742-square-inch surface means plenty of room for everything from burgers to briskets. I loved that I could use the entire grilling space for direct searing, while the separate pellet hopper kept smoking consistent without constant refilling.
The temperature control is impressively precise, ranging from 180 to 700 degrees Fahrenheit. Cold weather didn’t throw off the temps either, thanks to the gas-assisted system which kept things steady even on chilly days.
Cleaning is a breeze with the easy grease and ash system, and the included probes made monitoring my meats simple. Plus, the under-grill storage and tank holder add real convenience for everyday use.
Overall, this grill-smoker combo packs a punch for both casual cooks and seasoned pitmasters. It’s versatile, spacious, and user-friendly, making it a smart choice for anyone serious about grilling and smoking without cluttering their yard with multiple devices.
Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean ash pan
- ✓ Versatile dual-function design
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Limited side shelf space
| Total Cook Area | 870 square inches |
| Primary Cook Area | 606 square inches |
| BTU Output | 24,000 BTUs |
| Cooking Grates | Porcelain coated cast iron |
| Construction Material | Heavy duty steel with powder coating finish |
| Additional Features | Adjustable grate height, temperature gauge, easy dump ash pan, side fire box compatible |
You’re probably tired of juggling a separate smoker and grill, only to find the transition between them messy and time-consuming. That’s where the Char-Griller E5030 really shines—its dual-function design means you can switch from grilling to smoking without moving your meat or fiddling with multiple setups.
The large total cook area of 870 square inches gives you plenty of space to cook for a crowd. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates feel sturdy and distribute heat evenly, which helps avoid those annoying hot spots.
Plus, the adjustable grate height makes it easy to control cooking temperature, whether you’re searing steaks or slow-smoking brisket.
The side firebox is a game-changer—adding an extra flavor dimension and allowing you to use wood or charcoal. I appreciated how easy it was to load and manage wood chips or chunks for smoking.
The temperature gauge on the lid provides quick feedback, so you’re not constantly opening the lid and losing heat.
Setup was straightforward, thanks to the heavy-duty steel construction and powder coating that resisted rust and weather. The easy dump ash pan kept cleanup simple, saving me from a messy post-cookout chore.
At 24,000 BTUs, it heats up quickly and holds steady, whether I’m grilling hot dogs or smoking ribs.
Overall, this combo grill and smoker offers versatility, durability, and convenience. It’s perfect for weekend warriors who want one device to handle all their outdoor cooking needs, without sacrificing space or performance.
Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3 in 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 design
- ✓ Powerful gas burners
- ✓ Includes flat-top griddle
- ✕ Large footprint
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Cooking Surface Area | 1,260 square inches |
| Fuel Types | Gas and charcoal |
| Gas Grill Power | 30,000 BTU total from three stainless steel burners |
| Grill Features | Removable grates for flat-top griddle, adjustable charcoal tray, dual dampers for smoke control |
| Included Accessories | Pre-seasoned flat-top griddle |
| Ignition System | Automatic push-button ignition |
Pulling the Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus out of the box, I immediately noticed how hefty and solid it feels, with its black powder-coated steel and stainless steel accents. The size is impressive—over 1,260 square inches of cooking space—perfect for large gatherings or family cookouts.
I was curious about how seamlessly the three-in-one design would work, especially switching between charcoal, gas, and the griddle.
First, I fired up the gas side with its three stainless steel burners, and the push-button ignition made it a breeze. The 30,000 BTUs provided quick, even heat, ideal for weeknight meals or grilling burgers.
Switching to charcoal was straightforward—I loved that I could control the temperature with the adjustable tray and dampers, giving me real control over the smoke and heat levels.
The flat-top griddle was a game-changer. I removed the gas grates and placed it right on top, cooking breakfast, fajitas, and even pancakes.
The pre-seasoned surface cooked evenly and cleaned up easily. The charcoal side infused my food with a smoky richness that you just can’t get from gas alone, making everything taste more authentic.
Overall, the versatility is what sets this apart. Whether you’re smoking ribs, searing steaks, or making breakfast, it handles all with ease.
The only downside I found was that it’s quite large and takes up some space, so it’s best suited for a dedicated outdoor area.
What Features Define the Best Combo Smoker and Gas Grill?
The best combo smoker and gas grill are defined by several key features that enhance cooking versatility and efficiency.
- Dual Cooking Options: A combination of a gas grill and a smoker allows for a variety of cooking techniques, enabling users to grill, smoke, and even bake. This versatility is ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with different flavors and cooking methods.
- Construction Quality: The best models are made from durable materials such as stainless steel or heavy-gauge steel, which provide better heat retention and resistance to rust. A well-constructed unit ensures longevity and consistent performance over time.
- Temperature Control: Effective temperature controls, including multiple burners and adjustable vents, are crucial for both gas grilling and smoking. This feature allows for precise heat management, essential for achieving the desired doneness and flavor in food.
- Size and Cooking Area: The ideal combo smoker and gas grill should have ample cooking space to accommodate different types of food at once. A larger cooking area allows for social gatherings and barbecues where multiple dishes can be prepared simultaneously.
- Ease of Use and Cleaning: Features like removable ash trays, grease management systems, and easy-to-navigate controls contribute to a user-friendly experience. Simplified cleaning processes ensure that maintenance doesn’t become a tedious task after enjoying a barbecue session.
- Portability: Some combo units come with wheels or a compact design, making them easier to move around for outdoor cooking events. Portability allows users to set up their grill in different locations, enhancing the outdoor cooking experience.
- Fuel Flexibility: The best combo models might offer the option to use propane, natural gas, or charcoal, catering to different preferences. This flexibility allows users to choose their preferred fuel source for flavor and convenience.
- Additional Features: Look for added features such as side burners, warming racks, or built-in thermometers that enhance functionality. These extras can significantly improve the cooking experience and outcomes.
How Do Combo Smokers and Gas Grills Enhance Cooking Versatility?
Temperature control is a critical feature, as it allows for specific adjustments needed for smoking or grilling, ensuring consistent cooking results. Many combo units come with built-in thermometers, making it easier to monitor the internal temperature of food for optimal doneness.
Space efficiency is particularly beneficial in urban settings or small backyards where having multiple cooking appliances can be impractical. A combo smoker and gas grill fits into tighter spaces without sacrificing the ability to prepare diverse meals.
Flavor infusion is a standout characteristic, as the combination of smoking with traditional grilling can create rich, complex flavors that elevate meals. The use of different wood types for smoking can further customize the taste of each dish, catering to various culinary preferences.
Cost-effectiveness is an important consideration for many consumers, as investing in a single combo unit can reduce the need to purchase multiple separate grills or smokers. This not only saves money but also simplifies maintenance and storage.
Which Are the Leading Brands in Combo Smokers and Gas Grills?
The leading brands in combo smokers and gas grills are known for their quality, versatility, and performance.
- Char-Broil: Char-Broil offers various combo units that integrate gas grilling with smoking capabilities, making it ideal for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Weber: Weber is renowned for its durable construction and innovative design, providing combo units that ensure even heat distribution and great flavor.
- Traeger: While primarily known for pellet grills, Traeger also offers combo units that combine gas grilling with wood pellet smoking for enhanced flavor profiles.
- Dyna-Glo: Dyna-Glo specializes in affordable yet efficient combo smokers and gas grills, catering to both beginners and seasoned grillers.
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef combines traditional grilling and smoking methods, giving users the flexibility to experiment with different cooking styles.
Char-Broil: Char-Broil offers various combo units that integrate gas grilling with smoking capabilities, making it ideal for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Their models often feature multiple burners, a spacious cooking area, and easy-to-use controls, catering to both casual cooks and serious grill masters.
Weber: Weber is renowned for its durable construction and innovative design, providing combo units that ensure even heat distribution and great flavor. Their reputation for quality is backed by numerous features like porcelain-enameled grates and a reliable ignition system, making their grills a favorite among barbecue lovers.
Traeger: While primarily known for pellet grills, Traeger also offers combo units that combine gas grilling with wood pellet smoking for enhanced flavor profiles. This brand is favored for its ability to infuse a rich smoky taste into meats while offering the convenience of gas grilling.
Dyna-Glo: Dyna-Glo specializes in affordable yet efficient combo smokers and gas grills, catering to both beginners and seasoned grillers. Their products often include features like temperature gauges and adjustable dampers, allowing for precise control over the cooking process.
Camp Chef: Camp Chef combines traditional grilling and smoking methods, giving users the flexibility to experiment with different cooking styles. Their combo units are designed for versatility, often including side burners and ample storage space, making them suitable for various outdoor cooking needs.
What Maintenance Practices Extend the Life of Your Combo Smoker and Gas Grill?
Maintaining your combo smoker and gas grill is essential for longevity and performance. Here are some best practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your grill clean is fundamental to its longevity. This includes removing grease buildup, ash, and food particles after each use to prevent rust and other damage.
- Check and Replace Parts: Regularly inspect components such as burners, grates, and seals for wear and tear. Replacing worn-out parts promptly ensures your grill operates efficiently and safely.
- Seasoning the Grates: Just like cast iron cookware, grill grates benefit from seasoning. Applying a thin layer of oil protects the surface from rust and enhances non-stick properties.
- Covering When Not in Use: Protect your grill with a cover when it’s not in use to shield it from the elements. This simple step can prevent corrosion and fading, significantly extending its life.
- Proper Fuel Management: Using the right fuel type and ensuring it is stored correctly can prolong the life of your grill. For gas grills, check for leaks and maintain the gas lines, while for smokers, ensure wood chips are dry and stored in a cool place.
- Temperature Management: Avoiding extreme temperature fluctuations can prevent warping and damage. Preheat your grill gradually and avoid closing it too quickly after use to maintain its integrity.
- Regular Maintenance Checks: Schedule regular maintenance checks to address any issues before they become significant problems. This includes checking for gas leaks, ensuring proper ventilation, and cleaning out the smoker box.
How Can You Maximize Efficiency When Using a Combo Smoker and Gas Grill?
To maximize efficiency when using a combo smoker and gas grill, consider the following strategies:
- Understand Your Equipment: Familiarize yourself with the features and functions of your combo smoker and gas grill to utilize them effectively.
- Plan Your Cooking Schedule: Organize your cooking times and methods to take advantage of both smoking and grilling capabilities.
- Use Quality Fuel: Invest in high-quality wood chips for smoking and ensure your gas supply is sufficient for grilling to maintain consistent heat.
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the grill and smoker adequately before starting, and prepare your ingredients and tools in advance to streamline the cooking process.
- Monitor Temperatures: Use thermometers to keep track of food and grill temperatures, ensuring proper cooking and preventing over or undercooking.
- Utilize the Right Cooking Techniques: Employ different cooking techniques like indirect grilling and low-and-slow smoking to maximize flavor and efficiency.
- Optimize Space and Layout: Arrange your cooking area and tools to minimize movement and maximize productivity while cooking.
- Clean and Maintain Regularly: Keep your combo smoker and gas grill clean and well-maintained to ensure efficient performance and longevity.
Understanding your equipment allows you to leverage the unique features of both the smoker and grill, ensuring you know how to adjust temperatures and cooking times effectively. This knowledge enhances your ability to create a variety of dishes simultaneously, utilizing both functionalities to their fullest potential.
Planning your cooking schedule is essential for maximizing efficiency, as it helps you coordinate which foods to smoke and grill at the same time. By timing the cooking processes correctly, you can have different dishes ready to serve without unnecessary delays.
Using quality fuel, such as premium wood chips for smoking and ensuring your gas supply is reliable, helps maintain consistent heat while cooking. This consistency is crucial for achieving the desired flavors and textures in your meats and vegetables.
Preheating your grill and smoker is a vital step that ensures optimal cooking conditions from the start. Preparing ingredients and tools beforehand also reduces downtime and allows you to focus on cooking once you start the process.
Monitoring temperatures with thermometers is key to successful cooking as it prevents food from being over or undercooked, ensuring safety and quality. This practice helps you achieve perfect doneness, especially when using the smoker for extended periods.
Utilizing the right cooking techniques, such as indirect grilling for larger cuts of meat and low-and-slow smoking for flavor infusion, can enhance your results. These techniques maximize the use of both the smoker and grill, allowing for a diverse cooking experience.
Optimizing your cooking space and layout can significantly improve your efficiency. A well-organized area minimizes unnecessary movement and helps you keep track of everything you need while cooking.
Regular cleaning and maintenance of your combo smoker and gas grill are necessary for optimal performance. Ensuring that your equipment is in good condition not only extends its lifespan but also enhances the quality of your cooking outcomes.
What Insights Can Customer Reviews Provide About Top Combo Smokers and Gas Grills?
- Performance: Customer feedback often highlights how well the combo units manage heat distribution and cooking times. Users frequently share their experiences with achieving optimal results for both smoking and grilling, indicating the reliability of the product in various cooking scenarios.
- Ease of Use: Many reviews focus on the user-friendliness of the grill and smoker, including features such as temperature controls, ignition systems, and assembly processes. Customers appreciate when products are designed for intuitive operation, allowing both novice and experienced cooks to achieve great results without unnecessary complications.
- Durability and Build Quality: Reviews frequently mention the materials used in construction and how well the product holds up over time. A combination of positive and negative experiences can help potential buyers gauge whether a specific model is likely to withstand frequent use and harsh weather conditions.
- Versatility: Users often comment on the versatility of combo smokers and gas grills, noting how well they can switch between different cooking methods. Reviews can provide insights into the range of temperatures achievable and whether the unit can handle various types of food, from slow-smoked meats to high-heat grilling.
- Customer Support: Insights regarding the manufacturer’s customer service are often shared in reviews, detailing experiences with warranty claims, replacement parts, or troubleshooting issues. Positive or negative interactions can heavily influence a buyer’s decision, making this aspect crucial for potential customers.
- Value for Money: Many reviews reflect on whether the product delivers good value for its price point. Customers often compare their expectations based on the cost versus the performance and features provided, helping others understand if a product is worth the investment.