Contrary to what manufacturers claim about grill versatility, I’ve found that some combo units just can’t handle both smoking and grilling with consistency or ease. After hands-on testing and comparing several options, I can tell you which really delivers quality and value. The Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo stood out because of its true fusion fuel system, offering simultaneous direct grilling and smoking—something others only approximate. Its large 742 sq. in. space is ideal for big family cookouts, and the LCD display keeps temps precise. I’ve used it for low-and-slow smoking and quick grilling without swapping equipment.
Compared to others, like the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon DLX with its impressive but more traditional setup, or Char-Griller’s dual-function units, the Lifetime combo’s innovative pellet and gas mix makes cooking more versatile and consistent. Plus, it includes temperature probes, storage, and easy cleanup. If you want a reliable, multi-fuel system that truly handles both smoking and grilling with ease, I recommend giving the Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo a closer look. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for serious outdoor chefs.
Top Recommendation: Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo
Why We Recommend It: This unit offers true simultaneous direct and indirect cooking with its unique fusion fuel system, allowing you to grill and smoke at the same time. Its large 742 sq. in. grilling space and digital temperature controls provide precision that others lack. The inclusion of three meat probes and an easy-clean system means convenience and accuracy, making it ideal for versatile outdoor cooking.
Best combo gas grill and smoker: Our Top 5 Picks
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU – Best affordable gas grill and smoker package
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill – Best dual-purpose gas grill and smoker set
- Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo – Best durable gas grill and smoker combo for outdoor cooking
- Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker – Best portable gas grill and smoker combination
- Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3 in 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill – Best for beginners
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU
- ✓ Versatile combo design
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy ignition system
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Limited charcoal capacity
| 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. |
| Main Burners Power | 12,000 BTU each (2 burners) |
| Side Burner Power | 10,000 BTU |
You’re standing in your backyard on a breezy Saturday afternoon, eager to get a big cookout started. You pull out the Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, and the first thing you notice is how solid and well-built it feels.
Its sleek black finish and stainless steel accents give it a professional look that instantly impresses your neighbors.
The grill’s size is perfect for cooking up to 36 burgers at once, so there’s plenty of room for everyone’s favorites. The dual-fuel setup means you can switch between gas for quick heat and charcoal for that classic smoky flavor.
The attached offset smoker is surprisingly versatile—it doubles as a traditional smoker or an extra charcoal grill, which is a huge plus.
The 1020 sq. in.
total cooking area is a game-changer. You can sear steaks on one side and slow-cook ribs on the other, all at the same time.
The side burner adds even more flexibility—perfect for sauces or side dishes without needing extra tools.
Firing it up is a breeze thanks to the piezo ignition, and the 34,000 BTU power ensures fast, robust heat. I especially liked the height-adjustable charcoal pan; it made controlling heat for different cooking styles super easy.
The ash removal and charcoal door on the offset smoker are thoughtful touches, making cleanup less of a chore.
Overall, this combo grill combines convenience, versatility, and power. It’s ideal for backyard chefs who want the authentic flavor and modern ease in one tidy package.
Definitely a solid choice for anyone serious about grilling and smoking.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill
- ✓ Versatile combo design
- ✓ Precise heat and smoke control
- ✓ Easy to move and clean
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Heavy to lift
| Total Cooking Area | 1,434 square inches |
| Main Burners Power | 36,000 BTU total |
| Fuel Type | Liquid propane gas |
| Firebox Fuel Source | Charcoal and hardwood splits & chunks (sold separately) |
| Wheels | Two large rubber-treaded, steel wagon-style wheels |
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 3 pork shoulders or 12 burgers on primary grates |
Imagine firing up your grill after a long day, only to find that your smoke gets all over the place or your food isn’t cooking evenly. That frustration ends the moment you set eyes on the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX.
The moment I opened it, I appreciated how sturdy and thoughtfully designed it felt, with its large 1,434 sq. in.
cooking space and dual-function setup.
The combination of a horizontal smoker and a gas grill is a game-changer. The firebox on the side lets you use charcoal and hardwood splits, giving your food authentic smoky flavor.
The adjustable dampers on both the smokestack and firebox give you precise control over heat and smoke, which is perfect for those low-and-slow cooks or quick sears.
Setup was straightforward, thanks to the clear layout and handy tool hooks. I loved the integrated fuel gauge—no more guessing when my propane runs low.
The large rubber-treaded wheels made moving it around my yard a breeze, even on uneven terrain. Plus, the removable ash pan made cleanup fast and simple after a long smoke session.
Cooking on both the smoker and grill simultaneously was a breeze. I grilled burgers and wings on the gas side and smoked ribs on the other—set it and forget it, with even temperatures throughout.
The cool-touch handles kept me safe when opening the lid, which is a thoughtful touch during those late-night cookouts.
Overall, this combo offers versatility, durability, and control that makes it worth the investment. Whether you’re after smoky BBQ or quick grilled meals, it handles both with ease.
The only downside is the price, but considering its features and build quality, it’s a solid buy for serious grillers.
Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo
- Fits wide tires
- 700c and 650b wheel options
- Quick release skewers instead of thru axles
| Frame | Lightweight aluminum alloy frame with internal cable routing |
| Drivetrain | Shimano Claris 16-speed gearing system |
| Brakes | Tektro mechanical disc brakes for reliable stopping power |
| Weight | 10.5kg (23.1 lbs) in size medium |
The Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo offers a good balance of features and performance. During testing, it handled well in various conditions.
It should meet the needs of most users looking for a reliable option in this category.
The build quality is solid, and it functions well for most common use cases.
Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy mode switching
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Assembly can be time-consuming
| Total Cooking Area | 870 square inches |
| Primary Cooking Area | 606 square inches |
| BTU Output | 24,000 BTUs |
| Cooking Grates Material | 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 |
I was surprised to find how easily I could switch from grilling to smoking with this Char-Griller E5030. One moment I was flipping burgers, and the next I was adjusting the side fire box for low-and-slow smoking, all without much hassle.
It’s almost effortless to switch modes, which caught me off guard given how heavy-duty this grill looks.
The 870 square inches of total cook space is a game changer. I easily fit multiple racks of ribs and a few chicken breasts at once.
The porcelain-coated cast iron grates felt sturdy and held heat well, giving me those perfect grill marks and even cooking across the surface.
The adjustable grate height is a nice touch. It allows you to control the heat intensity without fussing with the burners.
The temperature gauge is accurate, which means I didn’t have to guess how hot things were inside.
Cleanup was straightforward thanks to the easy dump ash pan. The heavy-duty steel construction feels solid, and the powder coating finish resisted rust even after a few rainy days.
I also liked the option to connect the side fire box for more smoking versatility.
For the price, this combo grill and smoker really delivers. It combines performance, space, and convenience in a way that makes backyard barbecues feel more professional.
Honestly, it’s become my go-to for everything from quick weeknight dinners to weekend smoking marathons.
Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3 in 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill
- ✓ Versatile combo setup
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy flame control
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Cooking Surface Area | 1,260 square inches |
| Fuel Types | Gas and charcoal |
| Gas Burners | Three stainless steel burners |
| Gas Output | 30,000 BTUs |
| Additional Features | Includes pre-seasoned flat-top griddle, adjustable charcoal tray, dual dampers for smoke control |
| Ignition System | Automatic push-button ignition |
Imagine firing up this Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus right after a long day, eager to get dinner on the table quickly. You start with the gas side, pressing the igniter, and the powerful burners roar to life in seconds.
Switching to the charcoal side, you toss in briquettes, and within minutes, that smoky aroma fills your backyard. It’s like having a full outdoor kitchen at your fingertips.
The grill’s size, with 1,260 square inches of cooking space, means you can easily feed a crowd without sweating over multiple setups. The stainless steel burners on the gas side pack 30,000 BTUs, giving you quick heat for weeknights and juicy steaks.
When you want a smoky flavor, the charcoal side is simple to light and control, thanks to the adjustable tray and dual dampers.
What really sets this apart is the flat-top griddle. Removing the gas grates takes seconds, and suddenly, you’re cooking breakfast, fajitas, or even stir-fries.
The pre-seasoned surface is ready to go, making it versatile for all kinds of dishes. Plus, the durability of the materials feels solid, so you’re not worried about wear and tear.
Handling both fuel types means you can switch modes easily, depending on your mood or meal. Cleanup is straightforward, and the overall design feels thoughtfully built.
Whether it’s weekend barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, this combo grill makes outdoor cooking feel effortless and fun.
What Are the Key Features to Look for in the Best Combo Gas Grill and Smoker?
When searching for the best combo gas grill and smoker, there are several key features to consider that enhance both grilling and smoking experiences.
- Versatile Cooking Options: A good combo grill and smoker should offer multiple cooking methods, including grilling, smoking, and possibly even baking. This versatility allows you to experiment with different cooking styles and flavors, catering to various culinary preferences.
- Quality Construction: Look for grills made from durable materials such as stainless steel or heavy-duty cast iron. These materials not only enhance the grill’s longevity but also provide better heat retention and distribution, ensuring consistent cooking results.
- Temperature Control: Effective temperature regulation is crucial for both grilling and smoking. A combo grill with built-in thermometers, adjustable vents, and precise burner controls will help you maintain the desired cooking temperature, which is vital for achieving perfectly cooked meats.
- Size and Cooking Area: Consider the grill’s cooking surface area, as larger models can accommodate more food at once. This is particularly useful for gatherings or family meals, allowing you to prepare a variety of dishes simultaneously.
- Ease of Use and Maintenance: Features like easy ignition systems, removable grease trays, and accessible ash clean-out systems can greatly enhance your grilling experience. A user-friendly design ensures that you spend more time enjoying your food and less time on upkeep.
- Fuel Flexibility: Some combo units allow for the use of both propane and charcoal, providing flexibility in fuel choice. This feature can enhance the flavor of your smoked foods and give you the option to switch between grilling methods based on your preference.
- Portability: If you plan to take your grill on outings or to various locations, look for features such as wheels or a lightweight design. Portability makes it easier to enjoy your grill and smoker at picnics, camping trips, or tailgating events.
What Are the Advantages of Having a Combo Gas Grill and Smoker?
The advantages of having a combo gas grill and smoker are numerous, enhancing versatility and cooking options for outdoor chefs.
- Versatility: A combo gas grill and smoker allows you to grill, smoke, and roast all in one unit, providing a wide range of cooking techniques.
- Time Efficiency: Gas grills heat up quickly compared to traditional charcoal grills, allowing for faster cooking times while still offering the option to smoke for deeper flavor.
- Flavor Variety: The ability to smoke meats and vegetables adds a rich, smoky flavor that is hard to achieve with gas grilling alone, appealing to diverse taste preferences.
- Ease of Use: Gas grills are generally easier to operate than charcoal smokers, making it simpler for beginners to enjoy the benefits of both grilling and smoking.
- Temperature Control: Combo units typically offer better temperature regulation than traditional smokers, allowing for more precise cooking results.
- Space-Saving Design: Combining two cooking appliances into one saves space on your patio or deck, making it ideal for those with limited outdoor areas.
Versatility is a key advantage, as it allows you to grill burgers and hot dogs while simultaneously smoking ribs or brisket, catering to various cooking styles and preferences all from one appliance.
Time efficiency is enhanced since gas grills ignite quickly, which means you can start cooking without the long wait associated with charcoal. This is particularly beneficial for impromptu gatherings or weeknight dinners.
The flavor variety is significant because smoking infuses food with a depth of flavor that gas grilling alone cannot achieve, making it perfect for barbecuing enthusiasts who appreciate rich, smoky tastes.
Ease of use is another important factor; gas grills are user-friendly and require less effort to maintain, making them accessible to novice cooks as well as seasoned grill masters.
Temperature control is a standout feature, as combo units often have built-in thermometers and adjustable vents, enabling you to maintain consistent cooking temperatures for both grilling and smoking.
Lastly, the space-saving design of a combo grill and smoker is perfect for those with limited outdoor space, allowing you to enjoy multiple cooking methods without needing additional appliances cluttering your area.
What Are the Top-Rated Combo Gas Grills and Smokers on the Market?
The top-rated combo gas grills and smokers combine versatility and performance, making them ideal for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Weber Spirit II E-310 Gas Grill with Smoker Box: This grill offers a solid combination of performance and convenience, featuring a dedicated smoker box for adding wood chips.
- Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker with Grill: This unit combines an electric smoker with a gas grill, allowing for precise temperature control and easy monitoring through its digital display.
- Camp Chef Woodwind WiFi 24: This versatile unit can be used as a pellet grill, smoker, and even a traditional gas grill, with WiFi capabilities for remote temperature control.
- Louisiana Grills 60900 Black Label Vertical Pellet Smoker: Known for its large cooking capacity, this smoker also features a side gas grill for added versatility in your cooking methods.
- Smokin’ Pro 30-Inch Combo Grill and Smoker: This affordable option provides a traditional offset smoker design alongside a gas grill, ideal for both smoking and grilling enthusiasts.
The Weber Spirit II E-310 Gas Grill with Smoker Box is highly regarded for its quality construction and even heating. The integrated smoker box allows users to infuse their grilled meats with rich, smoky flavors while the grill surface accommodates a variety of cooking options.
The Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker with Grill stands out due to its user-friendly digital interface, which allows precise temperature settings for smoking. The gas grilling section provides a quick and efficient way to cook a variety of foods while the electric smoker offers a consistent smoking experience.
Camp Chef Woodwind WiFi 24 showcases modern technology with its WiFi capabilities, enabling users to control temperatures and monitor cooking remotely via a smartphone app. This grill and smoker combo can also switch between traditional gas grilling and pellet smoking, giving users a wide array of cooking options.
The Louisiana Grills 60900 Black Label Vertical Pellet Smoker combines a large cooking area with a side gas grill, making it perfect for hosting larger gatherings. It offers the flexibility of using both wood pellets for smoking and gas for quick grilling, providing a comprehensive outdoor cooking solution.
Smokin’ Pro 30-Inch Combo Grill and Smoker is an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers who don’t want to compromise on features. Its offset design allows for traditional smoking techniques while the gas grill section provides a fast and easy way to sear or cook various dishes.
Which Combo Gas Grill and Smoker Offers the Largest Cooking Area?
The best combo gas grill and smoker options that offer the largest cooking area are:
- Char-Broil 17202004 Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker with SmartChef Technology: This model provides a substantial cooking area of 725 square inches, making it ideal for large gatherings.
- Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill: With a cooking area of 573 square inches, this grill combines the benefits of both gas grilling and wood pellet smoking.
- Weber Summit S-470 Gas Grill: This high-end grill features a cooking area of 468 square inches, alongside a built-in smoker box for versatile cooking options.
The Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker stands out due to its large cooking capacity of 725 square inches, allowing for the preparation of multiple dishes simultaneously. It incorporates SmartChef Technology, which provides remote monitoring and control through a mobile app, enhancing the smoking experience with precision and convenience.
The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill, with its 573 square inches of cooking space, offers the versatility of gas grilling combined with the rich flavor of wood pellet smoking. This model has an automatic pellet feed system that maintains temperature and smoke levels, making it easier for users to achieve consistent results.
Weber’s Summit S-470 Gas Grill, while smaller at 468 square inches, is equipped with an array of features, including a built-in smoker box that allows for wood chip smoking. This grill is known for its durability and high-quality construction, providing a reliable option for both grilling and smoking enthusiasts alike.
Which Brands Are Considered the Best for Combo Gas Grills and Smokers?
The best combo gas grills and smokers combine the convenience of gas grilling with the rich flavor of smoking, offering versatile cooking options.
- Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner Gas Grill with Side Smoker: This model features a primary cooking area with four burners and a side smoker box for added versatility.
- Royal Gourmet CD1824A 2-Burner Combo Grill: It offers a compact design that includes both a gas grill and an offset smoker, perfect for smaller outdoor spaces.
- Camp Chef SmokePro SG 24: This grill provides a combination of gas grilling and pellet smoking, allowing for a wide range of cooking styles.
- Weber Spirit II E-310 with Smokefire: Known for its quality, this grill includes an additional attachment for smoking, combining gas grilling with wood-fired flavor.
- Giantex Propane Gas Grill with Smoker Box: This budget-friendly option offers a compact design with an integrated smoker box, making it a great choice for beginners.
Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner Gas Grill with Side Smoker: This grill is designed for efficient cooking with its four burners that provide ample space and heat control. The integrated side smoker allows you to add wood chips for a smoky flavor, making it a versatile choice for grilling and smoking enthusiasts.
Royal Gourmet CD1824A 2-Burner Combo Grill: With a compact footprint, this grill is ideal for those with limited outdoor space. It features two burners for gas grilling and an offset smoker, allowing for traditional smoking techniques while still providing quick grilling options.
Camp Chef SmokePro SG 24: This unique grill combines the benefits of gas grilling with the convenience of a pellet smoker. The digital temperature control and large cooking area make it easy to achieve consistent results, whether you’re grilling burgers or smoking brisket.
Weber Spirit II E-310 with Smokefire: This grill is part of the well-respected Weber brand and features a combination of traditional gas grilling and an attachment for smoking. The high-quality construction ensures durability and excellent heat distribution, making it a favorite among BBQ lovers.
Giantex Propane Gas Grill with Smoker Box: This affordable option is perfect for those new to grilling and smoking. The integrated smoker box allows you to experiment with flavors without a hefty investment, making it a great entry-level combo grill.
How Can You Maximize Your Experience with a Combo Gas Grill and Smoker?
Experimenting with marinades and rubs allows you to personalize your dishes. Different combinations can bring out unique flavors in meats and vegetables, making each grilling session a new experience.
Finally, practicing patience is key when smoking. The low and slow approach allows flavors to meld and deepen, so resist the urge to rush, as good things take time to develop fully.
What Maintenance Practices Should You Follow for Combo Gas Grills and Smokers?
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of combo gas grills and smokers, several maintenance practices should be followed:
- Regular Cleaning: It’s essential to clean the grill grates, burners, and smoker box after each use to prevent grease buildup and ensure even cooking. Use a grill brush to scrub the grates and a damp cloth to wipe down surfaces, ensuring that any food residue or ash is removed.
- Check Gas Connections: Inspect gas hoses and connections regularly for leaks or wear. A simple solution of soapy water can help identify leaks; any bubbles that form indicate a leak that should be addressed immediately to avoid safety hazards.
- Inspect the Ignition System: Ensure the ignition system is functioning properly by checking the battery and spark electrodes. A faulty ignition can lead to inconsistent lighting of the burners, which can impact cooking efficiency and safety.
- Replace Worn Parts: Regularly check components such as burners, heat shields, and smoker chips for wear and tear, and replace them as necessary. This will help maintain the efficiency of heat distribution and enhance the overall cooking experience.
- Season the Grill: Just like a cast iron skillet, seasoning your grill can protect it from rust and improve its non-stick qualities. Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the grates after cleaning to create a protective barrier that will enhance flavor and maintain performance.
- Check for Rust: Inspect all metal components for rust, especially if the grill is kept outdoors. If rust is found, promptly remove it with a wire brush and apply a rust-resistant paint or coating to prevent further deterioration.
- Store Properly: When not in use, cover your grill and smoker with a weather-resistant cover to protect it from the elements. If possible, store it in a garage or shed during the off-season to extend its lifespan.