Grilling food is a great way to provide your palate with a variety of unique flavors and to prepare healthier meals because the dripping fat lowers the food calories. A charcoal grill is unbeatable for the authentic smoky flavor while a gas grill has better temperature control and is faster to heat up and easier to clean. The best gas charcoal combo grill, also known as a hybrid or combo grill, provides all these benefits in addition to offering you all-weather cooking and more fuel options and saving you space and money by having a 2-in-1 unit. However, best smoker grill combo is also a good option.
The most important features you should consider before acquiring a gas charcoal combo grill are the primary cooking area, a warming rack, BTUs (British Thermal Units), number of burners, and dimensions. The cooking area determines the amount of food you can prepare simultaneously while the number of burners influences your cooking options. Once the food is ready, a warming rack keeps it warm. It can also double up as a secondary grill for cooking with indirect heat. BTUs indicates the amount of heat generated and the accompanying fuel consumption. Lastly, you should gauge the dimensions for storage and portability purposes.
Buyers, experts, and authoritative review sites have spoken on their best gas charcoal combo grill, and we have used that feedback to rank the best-rated models in the comparison table below. Each of the models has been analyzed in detail, including the features, pros, and cons. There is also a resourceful buying guide that covers the key features extensively, followed by an FAQ segment and a summary of our best three models.
More features: removable ash tray; 2 side shelves; cast iron cooking grids; chrome-plated warming racks
This is actually a 4-in-1 unit offering versatile charcoal grilling, gas grilling, searing and smoking options for a multitude of recipes. You can use either cooking option independently or combine them to prepare different types of meals in one go.
With a very large grilling area of 745 square inches, including 557 square inches of primary cooking area, this grill offers the largest cooking surface on our list of best-rated models. A wire mesh shelf at the bottom offers extra space for ingredients and utensils. For a charcoal and gas grill under $1000, it has very impressive features!
It is equipped with three burners that produce a total of 24,000 BTUs of heat, and a sear burner which generates 12,000 BTUs. The adjustable charcoal tray allows you to control the amount of heat when charcoal grilling while the side offset firebox features a vent to facilitate the airflow needed for consistent grilling.
Instead of poking the food or looking at the juice color or, even worse, testing the food temperature with your hand over the grill and risking burning, you can count on the two temperature gauges integrated into the lids to get the right temperature and avoid undercooked or overcooked meals.
Once you are done with grilling, simply slide-out the grease and ash pans to empty and clean them. You can then clean the porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates with a gentle brush to remove any stubborn burnt residue which could affect the flavor of future meals.
More features: one-touch cleaning system, removable LCD cook timer, built-in lid thermometer
The Weber Performer Deluxe is a charcoal grill with 363 square inches of cooking space. The grill has a Touch-N-Go gas ignition system. This system ignites charcoals easily with the touch of a button. It also includes an LCD countdown and a 2-part heavy-duty grate system. It also has a built-in lid thermometer and a Charbin storage container to protect your charcoal from the weather elements.
Weber is the most well-known and trusted brand in the grilling industry. Having a Weber grill is a luxury. Weber grills are slightly more expensive but last much longer than other brands.
This grill weighs 91 lbs and is best for your patio and outdoor grilling. The grill is not made for portability but stability. It is best for those who love grilling on charcoal as opposed to gas. You also will not need a professional to install a gas line. It is perfect for those who love to grill for the whole family.
We loved the extra cooking space the Weber Performer Deluxe includes. We also enjoyed the Touch-N-Go gas ignition system. You will not have to stick your hand close to the charcoal with a lighter. You can simply press the button and go.
We had hoped the charcoal grill had easier cleanup. Charcoal is always messy but pulling apart this grill is more extensive than other models. The Weber Performer Deluxe also does not include a warming rack. This is difficult when you are cooking for a large amount of people and want all of your food to be served hot and timely.
More features: heat control system, built-in bottom cart, protected grill cover included
The Royal Gourmet ZH3002SC is a three-burner grill that includes 576 square inches of cooking space. With the Royal Gourmet ZH3002SC you can fit around 33 patties. The Royal Gourmet ZH3002SC is a propane and charcoal grill combo. Its excellent performance and heat control system adjusts the heat for the ultimate grilling experience. This 2 in 1 grill gives the chef options and versatility. The grill includes a waterproof cover to protect your food from any weather.
Similar models do not have stainless steel doors or warming racks. Warming racks are extremely important when you are cooking for a large group of people. The steel doors protect your storage and retain more heat than similar models.
This combo grill is an excellent model with one of the most trusted brands. Royal Gourmet is well known in the grilling industry. It is affordable and consists of high-quality material.
Due to the expansive cooking space, this grill is perfect for those who love to entertain. You will have enough space to cook for large family gatherings and social events. If you love to host, this grill is the ultimate cooking experience.
We loved the versatility of the Royal Gourmet ZH3002SC. You get the best of both worlds: propane and charcoal. Built for the master-griller, the Royal Gourmet ZH3002SC includes two fireboxes made of organic silicone material so you can access dual cooking. The grill delivers excellent performance and taste.
We hoped the Royal Gourmet ZH3002SC grill would include more accessories. There is no rotisserie rack or extras. However, with its affordability, it is still an excellent choice. We also had hoped that the grill included extra storage space under the side tables.
More features: 1-year warranty, interior lights
The Coyote Hybrid Gas & Charcoal grill is a 50’’ hybrid grill made of stainless steel. The outdoor grill has two Coyote I-Burners that are trademarked for their high performance. It produces up to 40,000 BTUs of heat. The Coyote Hybrid Gas & Charcoal grill includes 600 square inches of cooking space and an adjustable fuel tray. The fuel tray can be used with charcoal or wood chips.
Unlike previous models, the Coyote Hybrid Gas & Charcoal grill is extremely versatile. You can cook using gas, charcoal and/or wood chips. The grill also includes two trademarked burners instead of one. In comparison to similar brand models, the Coyote Hybrid Gas & Charcoal grill is also much more affordable.
This grill is perfect for those that love to entertain. The Coyote Hybrid Gas & Charcoal grill has 600 square inches of cooking space, allowing you to cook for a large event or family gathering. You will be comfortable knowing you can cook the main course and sides without having to cook multiple rounds of food. You can cook for everyone at once so they can enjoy their meal together. The natural gas grill also produces less fumes. You will not have to worry about your guests inhaling nasty fumes when they are gathered around.
This grill encompasses a versatile grilling experience. You can use charcoal, propane, and/or woodchips. We loved the options. We also found the adjustable fuel tray is easier for cleanup. You can pull it out and empty the ashes or chips. The adjustable dampers also allow for more control of the airflow to prevent the flames from going out.
We had hoped there was an accessory to make the grill standalone. This grill will have to be properly mounted, which requires more installation. You also do not have any storage space. When you are cooking, often you use spices and utensils. This grill does not have space for storage.
More features: side shelf; electronic ignition; charcoal tray and propane tank storage
This model is equipped with a charcoal tray and propane tank storage for charcoal and gas grilling. Although you cannot use both types of fuel at the same time, you can easily switch between gas and charcoal by removing the charcoal tray to use gas.
The generous cooking area of 420 square inches and the warming rack of 120 square inches provide lots of space to grill plenty of food and keep it warm afterward. Heat is provided by three main burners with a BTU output of 40,000 and a side burner which generates 12,000 BTUs. The burners are made of stainless steel to make them more resistant to rust and enhance their durability, and the side burner has a lid to convert it to a prep space.
Maintaining this grill is easy because the cast-iron grates are coated with porcelain which can be brushed clean. A removable grease cup beneath the firebox collects all the dripping fat to further keep your grill tidy.
You will also find a rotisserie attachment for spit-roasting meat and a large side shelf for storing your ingredients.
The charcoal is conveniently ignited by the gas burners using electronic ignition, therefore eradicating the need for lighter fluid.
An inconvenience you will have to contend with is the lack of height adjustment grates to control heat when charcoal grilling. This is particularly grating, pun unintended because the charcoal tray sits very close to the grates which may cause burning or flare-ups. The gas tank is also placed at the back of the unit, which requires more effort to access it.
More features: heavy-duty steel construction; porcelain coated cast-iron cooking grates
In addition to affordability, easy assembly, comparatively light weight, and the dual gas and charcoal grilling, this model topped our list because it also has a smoking option. You can purchase an adaptable firebox separately and install it on the side to cook with indirect heat.
It offers 606 square inches of the cooking area which allows for a sufficient space to host a sizeable gathering while using both grills at once to prepare more food in a timely manner.
The two burners produce 24,000 BTUs of heat which is retained by the cast iron grates and double lined bottom insulation to speed up cooking. The grates are coated with porcelain for easy cleaning.
For regulation of temperature when gas grilling, this model features a movable top rack where you can place your food and close the lid to move the rack to the center of the unit and create more distance between the grilling food and the burners.
Other convenient features include temperature gauge which takes the guesswork out of your cooking, electronic ignition for a quick start, and side tables which provide additional space for your utensils and ingredients.
Despite the heavy-duty steel construction, buyers were pleasantly surprised by its compact size which makes it easy to move and store. It is also easy to assemble.
This model is the best gas charcoal smoker grill combo for the whole family and sizeable gatherings, but you will need a grill with a larger capacity for a bigger crowd.
More features: slide-away air vent on the charcoal side; two side tables
| Royal Gourmet ZH3003 lives true to its name, providing you with the space and grilling options required to prepare king-sized meals and a heavy-duty build which will reign over rust and weather elements for years.It features a heat-tolerant silicone firebox, two double-layered stainless steel lids with a built-in temperature gauge which is excellent at sealing in heat for speedy cooking, and stainless steel handle and panels which can withstand the harsh outdoor climate.
The three-burner charcoal and gas grill produces 27,000 BTUs of heat which is sufficient to cook a large amount of food on the extensive cooking area of 600 square inches and keep it warm on the 210 square inches of warming surface. Additional space for your ingredients, utensils and grilling equipment is provided by two side tables and a secure lower cabinet with doors, which also houses the gas tank, to keep away dust. The charcoal box is impressive, with two air vents which supply the charcoal with the oxygen needed for consistent burning, and an adjustable charcoal pan which lets you regulate heat by lifting the charcoal with the spring handle. To keep the unit clean, the grease cup collects the dripping fat when gas grilling while the slide-away ashtray collects ash when charcoal grilling. Owners of this model love the alternatives of opting for their preferred fuel as well as using both grills at the same time, a key component of the best gas and charcoal combo grill. |
The large cooking space and the stainless steel construction understandably make this grill heavy, but the four caster wheels provide smooth mobility for outdoor cooking sessions. However, you will need plenty of space for storage because the side tables cannot be folded.
More features: 2,167 sq in grill cooking area; 1,327 sq in electric smoker; 4-in-1 model; porcelain-coated cast iron grilling surface; porcelain-coated warming racks
Up next is the Pit Boss Memphis Ultimate grill. If you are looking for a versatile charcoal and gas grill combo, then look no further than this model. The Pit Boss Memphis Ultimate is an incredible piece of equipment made for the ultimate food lover.
The cooking space is more than decent to take care of your cooking needs and the space of the charcoal and gas burner is sufficient for several days of cooking. The several features it has makes it undoubtedly one of the best options on the market. It comes with up to three burners that take care of your grilling requirements. Additionally, there is a height adjustment with the aim of offering you better heat control.
The three 12,000 burner and 36,000 LP gas grill gives enough heat to intensely grill your meat , chicken and other foods.
Weighing around 90 pounds, it isn’t the most portable on the block, however, the size ensures that you won’t need another grill to care for your food.
Aside from these listed above, there are other useful features. For example, there is a porcelain heat plate and warming rack. There is also an integrated ignition system and control knobs. These knobs are sturdy and easy to use. The temperature gauges are easy to see and offer you even more control over the appliance.
Knowing how time-consuming the search for the best gas charcoal combo grill can be, owing to the numerous models on the market, we have broken down a list of the most critical features to prioritize when making your decision. The FAQ section answers the most common questions on grilled food, storage, and assembly of hybrid grills.
The following features have the most impact on the performance and delivery output of your gas charcoal combo grill.
The cooking surface will depend on the amount of food to be prepared and the type of cooking you need. Gas and charcoal combo grills either feature one cooking chamber, such as the one in Char-Broil Gas2Coal 3-Burner Propane and Charcoal Hybrid Grill, which uses the same amount of space for either charcoal or gas and limits you to one fuel type at a time, or they may have separate cooking chambers for the different fuel types which can both be used at the same time. The latter is the most common scenario for our best-rated charcoal and gas grill combo models. Don’t overbuy for cooking space, but also, keep in mind that you’re better off with a little too much room than not enough— especially with brands on the market like Kick Ash Basket, which manufacture heat dividers and many other grilling accessories.
Although a warming rack is mostly used to keep the cooked meal warm, the low heat can also be used to cook vegetables and other delicate food which requires indirect heat.
The greatest convenience of a gas charcoal combo grill is the ability to prepare a variety of meals simultaneously using different cooking methods. Since different types of food require different types of temperature, multiple burners allow you to prepare various types of meals at the same time. For example, you can indirectly grill a large tough rib while smoking fish and searing stake. Side burners can also be used to create side dishes and sauces.
BTU refers to British Thermal Unit which calculates the amount of heat required to increase the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. In grilling, BTU uses fuel consumption to measure the total amount of heat generated every hour by all the burners in a grill.
A high number of BTUs on its own does not necessarily indicate the best output because BTUs must be compared to the primary cooking surface area, minus the warming space and side burners. A large cooking surface will naturally consume more fuel to heat up.
A high number of BTUs generates more heat to cook your food faster and cover a larger cooking surface.
A combination of grilling functions requires a large cooking surface and multiple burners which translate to larger and heavier models which can be a burden to transport or fit in limited spaces. To ease mobility combo grills are usually equipped with caster wheels. If, however, you are looking for a more mobile grill, take a look at our top picks of the best portable charcoal grills.
The best gas charcoal smoker grill combo has a long warranty which inspires confidence in purchase and reassurance against future damages.
A common question by potential buyers is whether they could use natural gas in their combo grills, and manufacturers repeatedly advise them to stick to the propane gas only, which the grills have been designed and certified for. The manual for Char-Broil Gas2Coal 3-Burner Propane and Charcoal Hybrid Grill warns that usage of ceramic briquettes or lava rock will void your warranty.
Materials used: In addition to influencing the overall weight of the unit, the type of your grill material will determine the amount of heat retention as well as the durability of the unit and its resistance to deterioration from rust and weather elements. The models in our list feature stainless steel construction which is resistant to rust and heavy enough for stability purposes. The grilling grates are made of cast iron for its high heat retention and distribution and are coated with porcelain which is easy to clean. Royal Gourmet ZH3003S also features a firebox made of heat-tolerant silicone.
Temperature gauges: Most of the combo models have built-in temperature gauges for gas grilling. For charcoal grilling, they utilize an adjustable charcoal tray and air vents to regulate heat.
Ease of assembly: Due to the multitude of features found in combo grills, a substantial number can be tricky to set up. This is why complicated assembly is probably the top complaint from buyers of these models. On the other hand, Char-Griller Dual 2 Burner Charcoal and Gas Grill has been praised for quick assembling process.
Ease of cleaning: Grilling can be messy from the dripping grease to the ash left behind by charcoal. Look for a unit with a cleanup system, such as a removable collection pan for grease and ash that keep the grill clean and dry. Removable racks also make the cleaning process easier.
Extra storage space: This may be in the form of a shelf in BLOSSOMZ Dual Fuel Combination Charcoal/Gas Grill, cabinets in Royal Gourmet ZH3003S, or the side tables in Char-Griller Dual 2 Burner Charcoal and Gas Grill.
We loved the great price-performance ratio of the BLOSSOMZ Dual Fuel Combination Charcoal/Gas Grill which offers an expansive grilling area of 557 square inches where you can explore endless recipes using multiple cooking methods and a high number of BTUs while regulating the heat intensity with an adjustable charcoal tray and monitoring it using two temperature gauges.
Weber 15507001 came second for large cooking space, a lid thermometer, and an easy Touch-N-Go ignition system. It offers the best quality out there.
The Royal Gourmet ZH3002SC is our third choice. Its excellent performance and heat control system adjusts the heat for the ultimate grilling experience.
