Answering the search for the best propane barbecue with a smoker, this guide highlights versatile dual‑fuel grills that combine gas convenience with authentic smoky flavor. These models are ideal for backyard cooks who want quick weeknight grilling alongside slow‑smoked meats on weekends. The top picks prioritize burner control, total cooking area, and a true offset or charcoal‑flavored smoke experience. The buyer types best served by each product range from busy families needing quick meals to grill pros chasing event‑season crowd capacity.
| Product | Cooking Area | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Grills House 2‑Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo | 1020 sq. in. | Large gatherings; crave charcoal flavor with gas convenience |
| Sophia & William 3‑Burner Dual Fuel Combo | 840 sq. in. | Version for big family cookouts with robust warming rack |
| Masterbuilt 40″ ThermoTemp Vertical Smoker | 960 sq. in. | Vertical smoking with simple temperature control |
| Char‑Griller Dual‑Function 2‑Burner | 870 sq. in. | Compact dual‑fuel setup with precise zone control |
| Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel | 1031 sq. in. | Total capacity for smoke and quick grills |
Grills House 2‑Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo
The Grills House ZH3005Y‑SC offers a dual fuel setup with an attached offset smoker and a side burner, delivering both gas grilling speed and the depth of charcoal flavor. It features a total 1020 sq. in. cooking area, including a gas section, charcoal area, warming rack, and an offset smoker. This model is best for cooks who want to host larger gatherings while maintaining the option to finish sauces or sides on the side burner. A caveat: cleanup around the offset smoker and ash management require extra effort after smoking sessions.
Best for: households that value authentic smoky flavor without sacrificing quick weeknight meals. Why selected: the 1020 sq. in. total space supports cooking for many guests, and the integration of a side burner adds versatility for sauces, sides, or beverages.
Sophia & William 3‑Burner Dual Fuel Grill with Offset Smoker
This 3‑in‑1 cooking system blends gas grilling on one side with a charcoal grill and an offset smoker on the other. The 840 sq. in. cooking area includes a main surface, warming rack, and an offset smoker, making it suitable for large family gatherings. The heavy‑duty cast iron grates provide good heat retention and searing. Best for: charcoal lovers who still want the convenience of gas. Choose this if you need a robust platform for frequent entertaining and authentic smoke flavor; limitations include the heavier build and potential longer startup when using charcoal.
Best for: big outdoor parties; why chosen: strong total area coupled with a true multi‑fuel approach and durable grates for consistent searing and smoking.
Masterbuilt 40‑Inch ThermoTemp Propane Gas Vertical Smoker
Masterbuilt’s MB20051316 vertical propane smoker provides a compact, tall footprint with 960 sq. in. of cooking space. It uses a push‑button ignition and an adjustable temperature dial up to 375°F, simplifying long, slow smoking. This option is best for those who prefer vertical chamber design to maximize space in small patios. Limitation: a vertical layout may yield less direct grilling capability than horizontal combo grills.
Best for: dedicated smoking with simple controls; why chosen: reliable vertical design with straightforward temperature management and ample space for multiple racks.
Char‑Griller Dual‑Function 2‑Burner Grill & Smoker
This dual‑fuel model offers 870 sq. in. of total cooking space with two main burners and a separate offset smoker area. It combines gas convenience with charcoal‑style smoke in a single unit and includes a side burner for sauces or sides. Best for: cooks who want precise temperature control across zones. Better for: frequent entertainers needing a large surface area; caution: some users find charcoal start‑up slower than pure gas grills.
Best for: zone control and versatility; why chosen: robust main burners plus dedicated smoker space enable varied cooking styles in one session.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel
This 3‑burner setup combines a charcoal/offset smoker with a 36,000 BTU propane gas grill and a total 1031 sq. in. cooking area. It supports smoking and grilling with separate zones, plus a firebox grilling space for small items. Best for: users who want a blend of charcoal flavor and quick gas heating. Choose this if you need a high total capacity and a fuel gauge helps manage propane levels; limitation: assembly may be time‑consuming due to multiple components.
Best for: balanced charcoal and gas experiences; why chosen: high total area and a dedicated firebox provide flexible cooking for diverse menus.
Buying Guide
What to consider when choosing a propane BBQ with a smoker:
- Cooking Area and Layout: Look for total square inches and how it’s allocated between main grates, warming racks, and smoker space. A larger primary cooking area helps feed bigger groups, while an offset smoker or dedicated firebox expands smoking capacity.
- Fuel Type and Convenience: Dual‑fuel models offer gas for speed and charcoal/smoke flavor for depth. Decide which mode you’ll use most and whether you need a side burner for sauces and sides.
- Temperature Control: Vertical smokers often provide simpler dial control, while dual‑fuel grills benefit from separate heat zones. Consider models with adjustable vents, reliable ignition, and easy temperature tracking.
- Durability and Grate Material: Porcelain‑enameled cast iron and stainless steel grates provide heat retention and longevity. Non‑stick coatings reduce sticking but may require seasoning.
- Maintenance: Offset smokers and fireboxes require ash management and regular cleaning. Check for accessible ash doors and removable trays to minimize heat loss during service.
- Size and Footprint: Ensure the outdoor space can accommodate the grill’s width, depth, and clearance around burners and smoke paths. Portability is generally limited in larger combo units.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a dual‑fuel grill?
- Why would I need an offset smoker with a gas grill?
- How do I maintain a vertical smoker for best smoke flavor?
- Is it better to buy a separate smoker and grill or a combo unit?
- What seasonings or woods work well with propane smokers?
- How do I choose the right cooking area for my family size?