Answering the buyer’s search intent, this guide highlights the best dual fuel grills that combine gas and charcoal in a single unit. These grills suit backyard cooks who want quick sears from gas and authentic smoky flavor from charcoal. The top picks are ideal for weekend barbecues, family gatherings, and outdoor entertaining. Below you’ll find concise comparisons, who each grill is best for, and practical considerations to help you choose.
| Product | Fuel Types | Primary Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Grills House ZH3005Y-SC | Gas + Charcoal | Offset smoker and side burner for versatile cooking |
| Char-Griller E5030 | Gas + Charcoal | Two main burners with separate zones |
| Royal Gourmet ZH3002N | Gas + Charcoal | Two side shelves and easy mobility |
| Grills House ZH3005 | Gas + Charcoal | Balanced primary sections and warming rack |
| Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo | Gas + Charcoal | Three-burner propane plus charcoal smoking |
Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo
The Grills House ZH3005Y-SC combines gas grilling with charcoal flavor in one unit. It features a 1020 sq. in. cooking area, including a primary gas and charcoal zone, an offset smoker, and a side burner. This is best for cooks who want a larger cooking surface and a dedicated smoke path without multiple separate grills. The offset smoker infuses meats with smoky flavor and supports easy charcoal access via a side door. Use this if you want robust versatility for feeding larger groups with both direct grilling and slow-smoking capabilities.
Best for: backyard hosts who prioritize space and multi-zone control, plus the option to add charcoal incrementally via the offset smoker. Caution: setup is more involved due to dual fuel components, and ash management requires attention in the offset chamber.
Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill and Smoker
This model offers 870 sq. in. of total cooking space with two stainless steel main burners and a dedicated charcoal zone. The dual-fuel design provides the convenience of gas with the depth of charcoal flavor, making it ideal for serious grillers who need reliable heat zoning for searing while still smoking or finishing with charcoal. It’s better for frequent entertainers who want quick access to high heat on one side and charcoal flavor on the other. Caution: The control layout can take time to master for precise temperature zoning.
Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Dual Fuel Grill
The Royal Gourmet ZH3002N places a gas and charcoal grill side by side, offering a balanced dual-cooking experience. Two side shelves add prep space, and side hooks help manage tools during busy cooks. This setup is well-suited for cooks who want a compact dual-fuel option with easier mobility and storage. Choose this if you value extra prep space and straightforward repositioning in a small yard. Limitation: additional weight can affect maneuverability on uneven ground.
Grills House ZH3005 2-Burner Dual Fuel Grill
The Grills House ZH3005 emphasizes a 823 sq. in. cooking area, with a 666 sq. in. primary zone (333 gas, 333 charcoal) and a 157 sq. in. warming rack. It runs a total of 34,000 BTU (two 12,000 BTU main burners plus a 10,000 BTU side burner) for robust performance. This model is best for those who want a strong, balanced dual-fuel setup with a substantial primary grilling area. Caution: BTU numbers reflect total system output and can be deceiving without considering heat distribution and airflow in practice.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel Grill
The Canyon Combo offers 1031 sq. in. of cooking area across charcoal and gas functions in a three-burner propane system plus a firebox-style smoker area. It’s best for cooks who want high capacity and the ability to smoke with an integrated offset-style space, plus direct grilling with gas. The design supports crowd-friendly meals and long smokes. Limitation: the setup spread can be wide; ensure adequate outdoor space for optimal use.
Buying Guide
What to consider when shopping for a dual fuel grill:
- Cooking area and layout: Look for a balanced primary grilling zone and a dedicated charcoal or smoker area. Consider warming racks and extra prep space on the sides.
- BTU and heat control: More BTUs can mean faster heating, but even heat distribution matters more for consistent results. Independent burners help manage zones.
- Smoke and flavor features: An offset smoker or charcoal tray provides authentic flavor. Check how easy it is to add charcoal or wood chips during cooking.
- Mobility and footprint: Side shelves, wheels, and casters affect setup flexibility. Ensure the grill fits in your outdoor space and can be moved if needed.
- Maintenance: Ash management, removable grates, and rust resistance contribute to long-term durability. Porcelain-enameled coatings reduce sticking and rust.
- Fuel management: Consider how you’ll use gas vs. charcoal—some models require more frequent charcoal refilling or ash handling in the smoker area.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a dual fuel grill?
It combines gas grilling with a charcoal or smoker component in one unit for versatility. - Is a dual-fuel grill harder to maintain than single-fuel grills?
Yes, due to multiple fuel systems and cleaning needs for both gas burners and charcoal/smoker zones. - Who should buy a dual fuel grill?
Backyard cooks who want quick heat control and authentic charcoal flavor in one setup. - Which feature matters most for beginners?
Independent burner controls and clear assembly instructions improve early success with dual fuel grills. - Are dual fuel grills suitable for large gatherings?
Yes, many models offer large primary cooking areas and side burners or extra smoker space for big meals. - Do dual fuel grills require special fuel storage?
Gas tanks and charcoal or wood supply should be stored safely away from heat and moisture.