What’s the secret to that perfect backyard barbecue? Is it the smoky kiss of charcoal or the quick, convenient flame of gas? For many grill masters, this decision sparks a friendly but fierce debate. Choosing between a gas grill and a charcoal grill can feel like picking a side in a culinary war. You want amazing flavor and easy cleanup, but often, you feel forced to choose one over the other.
Many people struggle with this choice. Gas offers fast heat and simple temperature control, perfect for weeknight dinners. Charcoal, however, delivers that deep, authentic smoky taste everyone craves. Itโs frustrating when you canโt figure out which one fits your lifestyle best. Do you sacrifice convenience for flavor, or speed for tradition?
This guide cuts through the smoke and flames to bring you clarity. We will break down the pros and cons of both gas and charcoal. By the end, you will know exactly which grill deserves a spot on your patio. Get ready to end the confusion and start grilling like a pro!
Top Gas And Charcoal Grill Recommendations
- Charcoal & Gas Combo: The dual-fuel grill with an attached offset smoker and a side burner provides the authentic charcoal flavor, the convenience of gas grilling, the rich smoky flavor and the versatility of cooking sides or sauces, all in one tidy package
- 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area: A total of 1020 sq. in. cooking area, including 666 sq. in. primary cooking area (333 sq. in. gas area & 333 sq. in. charcoal area), 157 sq. in. warming rack area and 197 sq. in. offset smoker area, holds up to 36 burgers simultaneously
- Offset Smoker: Used as either a traditional smoker or an extra charcoal grill, an attached offset smoker infuses meats with irresistible smoky flavor and provides optimal circulation of heat and smoke. A side door makes it a breeze to add charcoal and remove ashes
- Fast & Robust Heat: Featuring 2 stainless steel main burners (12,000 BTU each) and a side burner (10,000 BTU), this grill delivers 34,000 BTU robust power in total. Piezo ignition system makes it easier than ever to fire up the grill without the need for battery
- Height-adjustable Charcoal Pan: 3-level adjustable charcoal pan enhances heat regulation, allowing for versatile cooking styles like slow-cooking, searing and smoking. The max charcoal capacity of the charcoal grill and the offset smoker are 3.3 lb. and 1.5 lb
- ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฉ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ฌ ๐๐ซ๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ & ๐๐ก๐๐ซ๐๐จ๐๐ฅ ๐๐ซ๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐๐จ: Owning this propane gas grill and charcoal grill combo means you can enjoy the convenience of gasgrilled dishes as well as the flavor of charcoalgrilled food. The charcoal grill and gas grill are independently controlled, and with a spacious 61inch long cooking counter, you can cook and enjoy delightful barbecue moments with family and friends
- ๐๐ฎ๐ฉ๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ซ๐ ๐ ๐๐จ๐จ๐ค๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ซ๐๐: 520 sq.in. porcelainenameled cast iron primary cooking area plus 170 sq.in. stainless steel warm rack secondary cooking area consist in 690 sq.in, bbq cooking area, and the gas grill part and charcoal grill part are individually controllable, allowing you to use grill flexibly based on the type of your gathering, super suitable for your family and freinds parties
- ๐๐จ๐ซ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ข๐ง-๐๐ง๐๐ฆ๐๐ฅ๐๐ ๐๐๐ฌ๐ญ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ง ๐๐ซ๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐๐ซ๐๐ญ๐๐ฌ: We upgraded main cooking area grates into porcelainenameled cast iron grates, which combines trodditonal cast iron and enamel grates advantages heavy duty, nonstick, rust resistant and crack resistant. They will bring the cooking area more even heat when worked with the 3 stainless steel burners and enameled charcoal tray
- ๐๐๐ฌ๐ฒ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ฅ๐๐๐ง: Below the grill chamber body, there are a grease tray for propane gas grill and a ash tray for charcoal grill, and the grease tray has been designed with a tilt so that the grease can flow directly into the hanging grease box below. Both of them are designed full sized and slideout, which means grilling cleaning much easier after BBQ time
- ๐๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐๐ซ๐ฏ๐ข๐๐: Captiva Desings provides you with professional customer service both before and after your purchase of propane gas & charcoal grill combo. Please let us know if you have any problems , we will reponse you within 24 hours, you can rest assured that your investment will be protected
- ๐ฅ Propane Griddle & Charcoal Grill Combo: Gas Speed Meets Charcoal Flavor, unlock two complete cooking worlds in one station: a powerful gas griddle for quick searing and frying, paired with an authentic charcoal grill for that classic smoky barbecue taste. Switch or use both simultaneouslyโyour flavor, your choice
- ๐ฅ High-Heat Performance with Precision Control: Experience professional power with the 12,000 BTU gas burner delivering fast, even heat, while the adjustable charcoal vent system lets you master temperature for low-and-slow smoking or high-heat grilling. No compromise on cooking style or results
- ๐ฅ Expanded Cooking Space: With 189 sq. in. of griddle space and 135 sq. in. of charcoal grilling area, you have room to cook for a crowd. Grill burgers over charcoal while toasting buns and sautรฉing veggies on the griddleโall at once
- ๐ฅ Easy-Clean Design: The gas side features sloped grease channels and a removable drip tray; the charcoal side includes a full pull-out ash drawer. Spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your outdoor gathering
- ๐ฅ Easy Installation & Portable Design: Ready for any adventure with quick-fold legs. Assembles in minutes, moves easily across decks or grass, and stores compactly with wheels. Your go-anywhere outdoor kitchen for camping, tailgates, and backyard parties
- Total cook area: 870 square inches
- Primary cook area: 606 square inches
- Easy dump ash pan
- 24, 000 BTU's
- Porcelain coated cast iron grates
- ULTIMATE 3-IN-1 COOKING VERSATILITY: Master every outdoor meal with this innovative Propane Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo. Featuring a powerful gas grill with cast iron grates, a versatile stainless steel griddle (teppanyaki) for pancakes or stir-fries, and two robust enamel charcoal basins for authentic smoky flavor, all in one compact unit (Not for Natural Gas).
- EXPANSIVE & EFFICIENT COOKING AREA: Boasting a generous 340 sq. in. primary cooking surface (23.6" x 14.4") and an additional 108 sq. in. warming rack (23" x 4.7"), providing a total of 448 sq. in. to easily feed a crowd. Equipped with 4 durable stainless steel tube burners (9550 BTU each) & 1 efficient round burner (8550 BTU), delivering a total 46750 BTU for powerful heat.
- COMBO SMOKER & GRILL: With a horizontal cooking chamber and a firebox on the side, the smoker is fueled by charcoal and flavored by hardwood splits & chunks, sold separately, to cook low and slow with indirect heat. The 3-burner gas grill is powered by liquid propane gas and runs on a 20-pound propane tank, not included. It has a 36,000 BTU rating, reaches cooking temperatures quickly, delivers high temps and maintains even heat.
- COOKING AREA: Smoke up to 2 pork shoulders and grill 12 burgers on the 750-square-inch primary grates. Grill up to 15 wings or 6 burgers on the 281-square-inch firebox grate.
- TOOL HOOKS: Three tool hooks are included to hang your tongs, spatula and other tools, freeing up space on your shelves.
- ASH PAN: A removable ash pan on the side of the firebox collects ash from the fire and provides easy access to clear out the ashes, making clean-up simple.
- SMOKESTACK & DAMPERS: Adjustable dampers on the firebox and smokestack regulate heat and smoke giving you maximum control and consistent results.
- ๐ฅ 1. Dual Fuel Flexibility: Convenience & Authentic Flavor Combined Enjoy the quick heating of propane gas and the rich, smoky taste of charcoal in one grill. Independent temperature control for dual zones precisely caters to different ingredientsโsear steaks on the gas side while slow-cooking ribs with charcoal at gatherings. The stainless steel burner delivers 20,000 BTU of powerful heat, ensuring fast and even temperature rise.
- ๐ 2. Spacious 302 Sq. In. Cooking Area: Perfect for Crowds Total cooking space includes a 151sq. in. cooking grid and a 151 sq. in.stainless steel griddleโenough to cook up to 15 burgers or 8 servings of food at once. Grill tender skewers on the grid and fry eggs/rice on the griddle without flavor mixing, ideal for backyard parties and family barbecues.
- ๐ง 3. All-Around Storage Design: Keep Tools Within Reach Two side shelves provide extra prep space for grilling tools and plates. 4 integrated hooks on both sides hold brushes, tongs, and other accessories. A dedicated condiment shelf in the middle keeps oil bottles and spice jars organizedโno more running back and forth during grilling.
- ๐ 4. Flexible & Mobile: Grill Anywhere, Anytime The stainless steel burner supports precise temperature control, suitable for slow roasting, quick searing, and more. Equipped with a heat-resistant lid with a large handle, heavy-duty wheels, and lockable casters, itโs easy to move to the patio, campsite, or backyardโgrill wherever you want.
- ๐งน 5. Zone-Separated Cleaning: Post-Grill Hassle-Free A full-sized sliding grease trap for the gas zone and a removable ash tray for the charcoal zone keep oil and ash separate. No disassembly requiredโjust slide them out to empty, saying goodbye to messy post-barbecue cleanups.
- Charcoal & Gas Combo: The dual fuel grill with a side burner offers unrivaled cooking versatility, allowing you to enjoy the smoky flavor of charcoal grilling, the ease and efficiency of gas grilling, and the convenience of cooking sides at the same time
- Spacious Cooking Area: A total of 823 sq. in. grilling area cooks up to 30 burgers simultaneously. 666 sq. in. primary cooking area (333 sq. in. gas area & 333 sq. in. charcoal area) heats up fast, while 157 sq. in. warming rack area keeps foods warm
- Extra Prep & Storage Space: The right-side shelf keeps ingredients, seasonings, and tools within arm's reach, while providing ample space for food preparation. The lid of the side burner can function as an added workspace for extended prep & storage space
- No Fussy Cleanup: On the gas side, the removable grease cup and grease tray allow the grease and residues to be collected effectively for easy disposal; on the charcoal side, the removable charcoal pan deals with ashes in no time
- Excellent Airflow System: On the charcoal side, adjustable side air vent enhances airflow maximally for efficient burning and temperature regulation, and a lid-mounted smoke stack provides additional airflow
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing Your Perfect Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo
Grilling is a fantastic way to cook outdoors. A gas and charcoal combo grill gives you the best of both worlds. You get the quick heat of gas and the smoky flavor of charcoal. This guide helps you pick the right one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look closely at these main features. They make a big difference in how you grill.
- Dual Fuel Capability: Make sure the grill clearly separates the gas side from the charcoal side. You need easy access to both fuel sources.
- Burner Quality and Quantity (Gas Side): More burners mean more heat zones. Look for stainless steel burners. They last longer and heat more evenly.
- Cooking Area Size: Think about how many people you usually cook for. A larger primary cooking area lets you grill more food at once.
- Temperature Control: Good grills have precise temperature knobs for the gas side. For the charcoal side, look for adjustable vents (dampers) to control airflow and heat.
- Lid/Hood Design: The lid should seal well. This keeps the heat in for better cooking. A built-in thermometer helps you monitor the temperature without lifting the lid too often.
Important Materials Matter
The materials used determine how long your grill lasts and how well it cooks.
Cooking Grates
The grates touch your food. Cast iron holds heat very well, giving you great sear marks. Stainless steel is durable and easier to clean. Porcelain-coated grates resist sticking.
Body Construction
Look for heavy-gauge stainless steel or thick, powder-coated steel for the body. Thicker metal resists rust and holds heat better. Thin metal often warps when it gets very hot.
Lid and Firebox
For the charcoal side, the firebox needs to handle high heat without burning through. Ceramic or thick steel is best here.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Small details often separate a great grill from a mediocre one.
Quality Boosters:
- Heat Shields: These sit above the gas burners. They spread the heat evenly and stop flare-ups from direct flame contact.
- Grease Management: A simple, easy-to-remove grease tray makes cleanup fast.
- Sturdy Cart/Wheels: If you move your grill often, strong wheels and a stable frame are essential.
Quality Reducers:
- Thin Metal Components: These rust quickly and don’t retain heat well.
- Poor Sealing Lids: If the lid leaks air, you lose heat and smoke control, especially on the charcoal side.
- Flimsy Knobs/Handles: Plastic knobs break easily in the sun and heat. Look for metal handles.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about *how* you will use your new grill.
The Weeknight Warrior: If you need quick dinners, you will use the gas side most often. Prioritize fast ignition and easy temperature control on the gas burners. You want to go from off to cooking temperature in under 10 minutes.
The Weekend Pitmaster: If you love slow-smoked ribs or authentic BBQ flavor, the charcoal side is crucial. Ensure the charcoal basin is deep enough for long cooks and that the venting system allows for fine airflow adjustments.
The Entertainer: If you host large parties, prioritize the total cooking surface area. A side burner (often found on the gas side) is helpful for keeping sauces warm.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main benefit of a combo grill?
A: The main benefit is flexibility. You choose fast, clean gas heat or smoky, traditional charcoal flavor for any meal.
Q: Are combo grills harder to clean than single-fuel grills?
A: They require cleaning two separate sections. The gas side needs burner maintenance, and the charcoal side needs ash removal. It takes slightly more effort.
Q: Which side heats up faster, gas or charcoal?
A: The gas side heats up much faster. It usually reaches cooking temperature in five to ten minutes.
Q: Can I use both sides at the same time?
A: Yes, most combo grills allow simultaneous use. This is great for cooking steaks over charcoal while grilling vegetables over gas.
Q: Is the smoke from the charcoal side going to leak onto the gas side?
A: If the grill is well-designed with proper separation, the smoke stays on the charcoal side. Poorly built models might let some smoke drift.
Q: What size grill should I get for a family of four?
A: Look for at least 400 square inches of primary cooking space. This gives you enough room for main courses and a side or two.
Q: Do combo grills cost more than single-fuel grills?
A: Yes, they usually cost more because they include two separate cooking systems and more components.
Q: How important is a lid thermometer on a combo grill?
A: It is very important, especially for the charcoal side. It helps you manage slow cooking without opening the lid and losing heat.
Q: What kind of fuel does the gas side use?
A: Most use standard propane tanks (20lb tanks). Some larger models can be converted to run on natural gas lines.
Q: Which material is best for the cooking grates?
A: Cast iron provides the best heat retention for searing, but stainless steel is easier to maintain and lasts longer without rusting if properly cared for.