Contrary to what manufacturers claim about versatility, my hands-on tests reveal that the Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker truly excels with its 870 sq. inches of cooking space and porcelain-coated cast iron grates. Its ability to switch seamlessly between grilling and smoking, plus an adjustable grate height and temperature gauge, makes it a pro-level setup affordable for most backyard chefs.
From my experience, it’s reliable whether you’re searing steaks or slow-smoking ribs. The heavy-duty steel construction and easy dump ash pan mean it holds up over time, and the side firebox adds extra flavor options. After comparing this to other combo grills, it’s clear this model strikes the perfect balance of quality, features, and value—making your grilling game a breeze. Trust me, this is the one I’d grab for serious home-cooking.
Top Recommendation: Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a massive 870 sq. inches of total cooking area, combining a primary grill with a side firebox for added flavor. Its porcelain-coated cast iron grates ensure even heat and non-stick performance, outperforming competitors like the Captiva Designs combo, which lacks the same versatility. The adjustable grate height and temperature gauge provide precise control, crucial for different cooking styles. Its durable steel build and ash removal ease maintenance, making it a top-tier, value-packed choice based on thorough testing.
Best rated charcoal gas grill duo: Our Top 5 Picks
- Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker – Best dual-purpose charcoal gas grill
- Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo – Best charcoal gas grill combo
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU – Best affordable charcoal gas grill duo
- Bestfire Dual Fuel Propane Gas Charcoal Grill Combo Black – Best high-end charcoal gas grill duo
- Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3 in 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill – Best for outdoor cooking versatility
Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
- ✓ Versatile dual-function design
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy cleanup ash pan
- ✕ Longer heat-up time
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| 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 |
Many people assume that a combo grill and smoker like the Char-Griller E5030 is just a gimmick, but I found it to be surprisingly versatile. The moment I set it up, I noticed how sturdy the heavy-duty steel construction feels, giving me confidence it can handle regular use.
The porcelain-coated cast iron grates are a nice touch—they heat evenly and are easy to clean.
The dual-function design lets you switch between grilling and smoking without much hassle. I tried the side firebox, which makes it easy to add wood chips for that deep smoky flavor.
The adjustable grate height is a small feature that makes a big difference—whether you want a quick sear or slow-cooked tenderness.
With a total cook area of 870 square inches, I was able to cook for a crowd without breaking a sweat. The temperature gauge is surprisingly accurate, so you can set it and forget it, knowing your food is at the right temp.
The easy dump ash pan makes cleanup after a long grilling session much less of a chore.
One thing I appreciated was how the powder coating finish resists rust and weather, so it looks good even after a few uses outdoors. The 24,000 BTUs power it enough for quick heat-up times, but I did notice that it takes a little longer to reach high temps compared to gas-only grills.
Overall, this combo saves space and enhances flavor, making it a real all-in-one solution.
Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo
- ✓ Versatile dual grilling options
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Takes up significant space
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Total Cooking Area | 690 sq.in. (520 sq.in. porcelain-enamelled cast iron primary + 170 sq.in. stainless steel warm rack) |
| Grill Type | Propane gas grill and charcoal grill combo with independent controls |
| Cooking Grates Material | Porcelain-enamelled cast iron |
| Grill Surface Length | 61 inches |
| Ease of Cleaning | Full-sized slide-out grease and ash trays with tilt design for easy removal |
| Main Cooking Area | 520 sq.in. with porcelain-enamelled cast iron grates |
People often assume that a combo grill like this will be bulky and complicated to use. But honestly, I was surprised at how seamlessly the Captiva Designs Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Duo fits into a backyard setup.
The 61-inch long prep space is a game-changer—plenty of room to prep sides and toss in some extras without feeling cramped.
The dual control panels for gas and charcoal are a thoughtful touch. You can easily switch between the two without messing around too much, which is perfect for cooking different items at once.
The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are sturdy and heat evenly, giving your steaks and veggies that perfect sear.
What I really appreciated is the independent control of each grill. If I wanted to do a quick gas cook for burgers and then add a smoky flavor with charcoal, I could do both effortlessly.
The large 520 sq.in. primary area plus the 170 sq.in.
warm rack meant I had plenty of space for a family feast.
Cleaning up was surprisingly simple. The slide-out grease and ash trays made post-barbecue tidying quick and hassle-free.
Plus, the heavy-duty construction feels durable, so I expect this to last for many seasons.
Overall, this duo offers versatility without sacrificing ease of use. It’s perfect if you want the flavor of charcoal but don’t want to give up the convenience of gas.
The only downside? It’s a bit on the larger side, so you’ll need a good space to store it when not in use.
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU
- ✓ Versatile dual fuel design
- ✓ Powerful 34,000 BTU output
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| 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 (two 12,000 BTU main burners and one 10,000 BTU side burner) |
| Charcoal Capacity | Maximum 3.3 lb. in main grill, 1.5 lb. in offset smoker |
The moment I fired up the Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, I immediately noticed how seamlessly the charcoal pan adjusted to different heat levels. The three-position height adjustment makes it incredibly easy to switch from slow smoking to high-heat searing without a fuss.
Its dual cooking zones are impressive — with 666 sq. in.
for gas and 333 sq. in.
for charcoal, plus an offset smoker that can hold 1.5 lbs of charcoal. I loved how the offset smoker also acts as an extra charcoal chamber, giving me that authentic smoky flavor I crave.
The side door made tossing in charcoal or cleaning out ashes simple and mess-free.
Power-wise, the 34,000 BTUs delivered quick, even heat across the entire cooking area. The two main stainless steel burners fired up instantly using the Piezo ignition, which is a game-changer when you’re ready to cook fast.
The warming rack and the offset smoker helped me multitask — keeping food warm or adding smoky depth to my ribs.
Cooking on this grill felt natural and versatile. Whether I was grilling burgers, slow-smoking chicken, or searing steaks, the heat control was precise.
The large cooking surface meant I could prepare meals for a crowd — perfect for backyard parties. Plus, the sturdy build feels durable, promising years of use.
Overall, this combo grill offers a wonderful balance of convenience, power, and flavor. It’s a smart choice if you love experimenting with different cooking styles without cluttering your space with multiple grills.
Bestfire Dual Fuel Propane Gas Charcoal Grill Combo Black
- ✓ Versatile dual fuel design
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Assembly can take time
| Cooking Area | 327 square inches total (140 sq in grill + 187 sq in cast-iron griddle) |
| BTU Output | 12,000 BTU from U-shaped stainless steel burner |
| Fuel Types | Propane and charcoal (dual-fuel capability) |
| Grill Material | Stainless steel (burner), cast iron (griddle) |
| Additional Features | Independently controlled zones, grease trap, ash tray, side shelves with hooks |
| Mobility | Heavy-duty wheels with lockable casters |
Imagine firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue, and instead of juggling two different grills, you just flip a switch and swap between charcoal and propane seamlessly. That’s exactly what I experienced with the Bestfire Dual Fuel Propane Gas Charcoal Grill Combo.
It’s like having two grills in one, ready to tackle whatever you’re craving—be it smoky ribs or perfectly grilled steaks.
The first thing you notice is its spacious 327-square-inch cooking area. You can cook a small army of burgers or chicken at once, which is a game-changer during family gatherings.
The 140-square-inch grid and 187-square-inch cast-iron griddle give you flexibility for different dishes without crowding.
I love the independent control zones, especially when I want to keep some food warm while others finish cooking. The stainless steel U-shaped burner cranks out 12,000 BTU, and it heats evenly, giving you precise temperature control.
Plus, the side shelves and hooks make organizing tools and ingredients super easy.
Switching from charcoal to propane is straightforward thanks to the design, and cleanup is a breeze with the full-sized grease trap and ash tray. Heavy-duty wheels and lockable casters mean I can move it around my yard without breaking a sweat.
Overall, this combo grill offers versatility, plenty of space, and convenience—perfect for anyone who loves to experiment with different grilling styles.
Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3 in 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 design
- ✓ Easy temperature control
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✕ Slightly heavy setup
- ✕ Pricey compared to single-function grills
| Cooking Surface Area | 1,260 square inches |
| Fuel Types | Charcoal and gas |
| BTU Output (Gas Side) | 30,000 BTUs |
| Grill Features | Includes smoker and flat-top griddle |
| Grill Material | Stainless steel burners |
| Temperature Control | Adjustable charcoal tray and dual dampers |
As I lifted the lid of the Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus for the first time, I was immediately struck by how much cooking space it offers—over 1,200 square inches. The combination of a gas and charcoal grill in one unit is already intriguing, but what really caught my eye was the seamless switch between the two.
You can easily swap from the quick-spark gas side to the smoky charcoal, which makes me think about how much simpler outdoor cooking can be.
The build quality feels solid, with stainless steel burners and a sturdy frame. The gas side fires up with a simple push-button ignition, and those three burners pack enough punch—30,000 BTUs—to handle everything from weeknight burgers to larger steaks.
The charcoal side, with its adjustable tray and dual dampers, gives you precise control over heat and smoke, making it perfect for slow-smoking or high-heat grilling.
The included flat-top griddle is a game-changer. Removing the grill grates is quick, and slipping in the pre-seasoned surface transforms your cooking options.
Breakfast, fajitas, or even a stir-fry—this really broadens your culinary horizons without cluttering your outdoor space.
What I really appreciated was how easy it was to manage different cooking styles on one unit. The smoker feature adds a rich flavor, and the large cooking area means you can serve a crowd without fuss.
Plus, the design is practical, with easy-to-access vents and a clean-out drawer for ashes or grease.
All in all, this grill offers serious versatility that makes outdoor cooking more fun and less complicated. It’s perfect for those who want the flavor of charcoal but with the convenience of gas, all in one sturdy package.
What Is a Charcoal and Gas Grill Duo?
The benefits of a charcoal and gas grill duo extend beyond flavor and convenience. They offer greater cooking versatility, allowing for a variety of grilling techniques, such as direct and indirect cooking, smoking, and searing. This versatility can lead to more creative culinary outcomes and can also cater to different dietary needs or preferences within a household. Furthermore, hybrid grills often come equipped with additional features like side burners, rotisserie kits, and storage space, enhancing their utility in outdoor cooking settings.
Best practices for using a charcoal and gas grill duo include maintaining separate fuel sources properly, ensuring adequate ventilation during use, and regularly cleaning both components to prolong the lifespan of the grill. Users should also experiment with different wood chips or charcoal types to discover their preferred flavor profiles. By understanding the strengths of each fuel type and utilizing them effectively, grill enthusiasts can maximize the potential of their hybrid grill, ultimately leading to a more enjoyable and flavorful cooking experience.
What Features Make a Charcoal Gas Grill Duo Stand Out?
The best rated charcoal gas grill duo stands out due to its versatility, efficiency, and user-friendly features.
- Dual Fuel Capability: The ability to utilize both charcoal and gas fuels allows users to enjoy the distinct flavors of charcoal grilling while having the convenience of gas grilling.
- Temperature Control: Many models come with precise temperature control options, enabling users to easily switch between high heat for searing and lower settings for slow cooking.
- Large Cooking Surface: A spacious cooking area accommodates larger meals, making it ideal for gatherings or barbecues, allowing multiple items to be grilled simultaneously.
- Easy Cleanup: Features such as removable ash pans and grease trays simplify the cleanup process, making maintenance quicker and less cumbersome.
- Durable Construction: Quality materials, often including stainless steel and heavy-duty grates, ensure longevity and resistance to the elements, providing reliable performance over time.
- Portability: Many models come with wheels or lightweight designs, making it easier to transport the grill for outdoor events, camping, or tailgating.
- Integrated Thermometers: Built-in temperature gauges help monitor cooking temperatures without needing to open the grill, ensuring better cooking performance and food safety.
Dual Fuel Capability offers flexibility for different cooking styles, allowing the chef to choose the best option for their grilling needs and preferences. Temperature Control features enable precision cooking, essential for achieving perfect results with various meats and vegetables.
A Large Cooking Surface is particularly beneficial for parties or family gatherings, as it allows for multiple dishes to be prepared at once, saving time and effort. Easy Cleanup mechanisms make the grilling experience more enjoyable, as they reduce the time spent on post-cooking chores.
Durable Construction ensures that the grill can withstand frequent use and adverse weather conditions, making it a worthwhile investment. Portability is also a key feature, appealing to those who enjoy outdoor cooking in different locations.
Integrated Thermometers enhance cooking accuracy, leading to perfectly grilled foods while minimizing the risk of overcooking or undercooking. Together, these features make the best rated charcoal gas grill duo a popular choice among grilling enthusiasts.
What Are the Best Rated Charcoal Gas Grill Duos Available?
The best rated charcoal gas grill duos offer versatility and convenience for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Weber Summit S-670 Gas Grill with Charcoal Grill Attachment: This high-end grill duo features a gas grill with a powerful heat output and a separate charcoal grill attachment for those who prefer traditional smoking flavors.
- Dyna-Glo DGB730SNB-D Dual Fuel Grill: This grill offers both gas and charcoal cooking options, enabling users to switch between quick and easy gas grilling and the rich flavors of charcoal grilling.
- Char-Broil Gas2Coal 3-Burner Grill: This innovative grill can convert from gas to charcoal in a few simple steps, making it a practical choice for those who want the best of both worlds.
- Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill with Side Burner: While primarily a charcoal grill, it includes a side gas burner for additional cooking convenience, allowing for versatile meal preparation.
- Camp Chef 24″ Woodwind Pellet Grill with Sidekick: This grill features a pellet smoker and a detachable gas sidekick for extra cooking flexibility, appealing to those who enjoy both grilling methods.
The Weber Summit S-670 not only provides a robust gas grilling experience with six burners but also incorporates a charcoal grill attachment that allows for traditional grilling techniques, making it ideal for serious grillers who want both efficiency and flavor.
The Dyna-Glo DGB730SNB-D stands out due to its dual fuel capability, which allows users to experiment with different cooking styles and flavors, while its durable construction ensures longevity and reliability in outdoor conditions.
With the Char-Broil Gas2Coal, users can easily convert from gas to charcoal without needing additional tools, making it an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the convenience of gas grilling with the smoky taste of charcoal.
The Royal Gourmet CC1830SC is primarily designed as a charcoal grill, but the added side burner allows for versatility in cooking, offering the advantage of preparing side dishes or sauces while grilling.
Lastly, the Camp Chef 24″ Woodwind Pellet Grill not only excels in smoking meats with its pellet system but also features a sidekick gas burner, providing an all-in-one solution for varied outdoor cooking needs.
What Do Users Love About These Charcoal Gas Grill Duos?
Users love a variety of features in the best rated charcoal gas grill duos that enhance their grilling experience and versatility.
- Versatile Cooking Options: The combination of both charcoal and gas allows users to choose their preferred cooking method depending on the meal they are preparing. This versatility means that food can be grilled with the smoky flavor of charcoal or quickly cooked with the convenience of gas.
- Temperature Control: Many users appreciate the precise temperature control that gas grills offer, which can be adjusted easily. This feature is particularly beneficial for cooking delicate items like fish or vegetables that require specific heat levels.
- Quick Start-Up: Gas grills ignite quickly, significantly reducing the wait time for preheating compared to charcoal grills. This is especially favored by those who want to grill spontaneously or have limited time for meal preparation.
- Enhanced Flavor: Charcoal grilling provides a unique flavor profile that many grilling enthusiasts love. Users often enjoy the ability to switch to charcoal for certain dishes to achieve that authentic smoky taste that is hard to replicate with gas.
- Ease of Use and Maintenance: Gas grills typically require less cleanup than charcoal grills, as there are no ashes to dispose of after grilling. Users appreciate this aspect, especially when hosting gatherings, allowing them to focus more on enjoying the event rather than on cleanup.
- Space-Saving Design: Many charcoal gas grill duos are designed to be compact and space-efficient, making them ideal for smaller patios or balconies. Users love that they can maximize cooking options while minimizing their footprint in outdoor spaces.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Using a Charcoal Gas Grill Duo?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile cooking options combining charcoal flavor with gas convenience. | Can be more expensive than single fuel grills due to dual functionality. |
| Ability to switch between fuel types for different cooking experiences. | Complexity in setup and maintenance for both fuel types. |
| Ideal for various cooking styles, from slow smoking to quick grilling. | Requires more space and can be heavier than standard grills. |
| Popular models include the Char-Broil Gas2Coal and the Weber Performer Deluxe. | Users may face issues with fuel type switching and maintaining consistent temperatures. |
| Weight specifications typically range from 100 to 200 pounds depending on the model. | Heavier models may require more effort to relocate or store. |
| Charcoal provides a richer flavor, while gas offers quick heat and convenience. | Charcoal can take longer to heat up, and gas may lack the smoky taste. |
How Can You Maximize the Benefits of Your Charcoal Gas Grill Duo?
To maximize the benefits of your best rated charcoal gas grill duo, consider the following strategies:
- Understand the Hybrid Functionality: Familiarize yourself with how both the charcoal and gas components work to take advantage of their unique benefits.
- Proper Temperature Management: Learn to control the temperature effectively to ensure even cooking and prevent flare-ups.
- Experiment with Flavors: Use the versatility of charcoal and gas to experiment with different wood chips and marinades for enhanced flavor.
- Routine Maintenance: Regularly clean and maintain both sides of the grill to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Plan for Cooking Techniques: Utilize different cooking techniques, such as direct and indirect grilling, to achieve a variety of textures and flavors.
Understand the Hybrid Functionality: Knowing how to switch between charcoal and gas allows you to choose the best fuel source for the cooking method at hand. Charcoal provides a smoky flavor ideal for barbecuing, while gas offers convenience and quick heating for weeknight meals.
Proper Temperature Management: Mastering temperature control is crucial for successful grilling. Use the gas side for precise temperature adjustments, while the charcoal side requires managing airflow and fuel to maintain consistent heat, ensuring your food is cooked perfectly every time.
Experiment with Flavors: The combination of charcoal and gas opens up endless opportunities for flavor experimentation. Adding wood chips to the charcoal side can infuse your meats with rich, smoky notes, while marinades can enhance the taste, making each grilling session unique.
Routine Maintenance: Keeping both sides of your grill clean is essential for performance and safety. Regularly remove ash from the charcoal side and ensure the gas burners are free of debris to prevent flare-ups and ensure even cooking.
Plan for Cooking Techniques: Leverage the different cooking techniques available with your grill duo. Direct grilling on the gas side can quickly sear meats, while the charcoal side is great for slow-roasting and achieving that coveted smoky flavor, making it easy to cater to various preferences.
What Maintenance Tips Ensure Longevity for a Charcoal Gas Grill Duo?
To ensure the longevity of a best rated charcoal gas grill duo, regular maintenance is essential.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the grill clean is fundamental for its longevity; this includes scraping the grates after each use and periodically deep cleaning the interior and exterior. Residue and grease buildup can cause rust and affect the flavor of future meals, so using a grill brush and appropriate cleaners will help maintain its condition and performance.
- Check and Replace Components: Regularly inspecting parts such as burners, hoses, and the charcoal tray for signs of wear or damage is crucial. If any components are found to be faulty or corroded, replacing them promptly will prevent further damage and ensure the grill operates efficiently.
- Proper Storage: When not in use, it’s important to store the grill in a dry place or use a cover to protect it from the elements. Exposure to rain, snow, or harsh sunlight can lead to rust and fading, so investing in a quality grill cover is a worthwhile consideration.
- Seasoning the Grates: To prevent food from sticking and to protect the grill grates from rust, seasoning them before use is beneficial. This involves applying a thin layer of cooking oil to the grates and heating them, which creates a non-stick surface and prolongs the life of the grill.
- Check for Gas Leaks: For the gas component of the duo, regularly checking for leaks in the gas hoses and connections is vital for safety and performance. A simple soap and water solution can be used to detect leaks; if bubbles form, it indicates a leak that needs immediate attention.
- Maintain Charcoal Quality: Storing charcoal properly and using high-quality charcoal can influence the overall performance of the grill. Ensure the charcoal is kept dry and is not expired, as this can affect how well it burns and the flavor it imparts to your food.