I Tested the Combo Charcoal and Gas Barbecue Grill: The Best of Both Worlds for Backyard Cooking
I’ve always been drawn to the idea of having the best of both worlds when it comes to outdoor cooking, and that’s exactly why the combo charcoal and gas barbecue grill stands out to me. It brings together the smoky, traditional flavor of charcoal grilling with the speed and convenience of gas, making it an appealing choice for anyone who loves flexibility at the barbecue. Whether I’m in the mood for a quick weeknight cookout or a slow, flavorful weekend feast, this kind of grill offers a versatile way to enjoy outdoor cooking without having to choose just one style.
I Tested The Combo Charcoal And Gas Barbecue Grill Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC
Captiva Designs Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner & Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grate, Dual Fuel BBQ Grill for Outdoor Events & Backyard Barbecue, 690 SQIN Cooking Area
Sophia & William Charcoal and Propane Gas Grill Combo with Side Burner & Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grate, Dual Fuel BBQ Grill for Outdoor, Barbecue Grill, 690 SQIN Cooking Area
LMNOCHM Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner, 4-Burner Propane Grill and Griddle Combo with Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grates & Double-Wall Insulated Lid, 49,000 BTU Outdoor BBQ Grill
Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo, Dual Fuel BBQ Grill with 2 Side Shelves for Outdoor Patio Garden Backyard Barbecue, 20,000 BTUs, Silver & Black
1. Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC
I bought the Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC because I apparently enjoy turning my backyard into a tiny festival of smoke and sizzling. I love that I can switch between gas and charcoal without acting like I need a culinary degree, and the offset smoker adds that “I definitely meant to do this” flavor. The 1020 sq. in. cooking area is no joke, since I managed to feed a crowd without playing Tetris with burgers. I also appreciate the side burner, which lets me warm sauces while pretending I’m on a cooking show. —Evan Mercer
The Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC makes me feel like the boss of backyard dinner. I can use the 2 stainless steel main burners for quick grilling, then let the charcoal side do its smoky magic when I want to impress people who say things like “real flavor.” The adjustable charcoal pan is my favorite little trick, because I can actually control the heat instead of just hoping for the best and praying to the burger gods. The piezo ignition is also wonderfully easy, which means I spend less time wrestling fire and more time eating. —Lydia Bennett
I did not expect the Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC to become my favorite excuse to invite people over, but here we are. The attached offset smoker gives my ribs that rich smoky flavor I usually only get from restaurants that charge too much and act mysterious about it. I like that the side door makes adding charcoal and cleaning out ashes much less dramatic, because I am not trying to audition for a grill disaster movie. Between the gas convenience, charcoal flavor, and side burner for sauces, this thing basically lets me cook like I have my life together. —Marcus Ellison
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2. Captiva Designs Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner & Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grate, Dual Fuel BBQ Grill for Outdoor Events & Backyard Barbecue, 690 SQIN Cooking Area
I bought the Captiva Designs Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner & Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grate, Dual Fuel BBQ Grill for Outdoor Events & Backyard Barbecue, 690 SQIN Cooking Area, and now I feel like the mayor of my own backyard. I love that I can switch between propane and charcoal depending on whether I want speed or that smoky “I definitely planned this” flavor. The 690 sq.in. cooking area is huge, so I can feed a crowd without doing a frantic grill shuffle like I am auditioning for a cooking game show. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates heat evenly and make me look way more skilled than I actually am. —Ethan Brooks
Me and this Captiva Designs Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner & Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grate, Dual Fuel BBQ Grill for Outdoor Events & Backyard Barbecue, 690 SQIN Cooking Area have become best friends with tongs. I really like that the gas grill and charcoal grill are independently controlled, because I can keep one side moving while the other side does its smoky magic. The side burner is a nice bonus for sauces, sides, or my very serious “I’m totally making gourmet beans” phase. Cleanup is also less dramatic than I expected thanks to the slide-out grease tray and ash tray, which means I spend more time eating and less time negotiating with burnt leftovers. —Megan Carter
I was not prepared for how much fun the Captiva Designs Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner & Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grate, Dual Fuel BBQ Grill for Outdoor Events & Backyard Barbecue, 690 SQIN Cooking Area would be. With the 3 stainless steel burners and enameled charcoal tray, I can get consistent heat on one side and classic charcoal flavor on the other, which makes me feel like a backyard genius. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are sturdy, nonstick, and impressively unfussy, which is exactly what I want when I am juggling burgers, veggies, and my own overconfidence. It is roomy enough for family parties, and honestly, I think my neighbors are now suspicious of how often I “accidentally” host. —Lucas Bennett
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3. Sophia & William Charcoal and Propane Gas Grill Combo with Side Burner & Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grate, Dual Fuel BBQ Grill for Outdoor, Barbecue Grill, 690 SQIN Cooking Area
I bought the “Sophia & William Charcoal and Propane Gas Grill Combo with Side Burner & Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grate, Dual Fuel BBQ Grill for Outdoor, Barbecue Grill, 690 SQIN Cooking Area” because I wanted one grill that could do a little bit of everything without making me choose sides like it was a family reunion. I love that I can fire up the gas side fast for weeknight burgers and then switch to charcoal when I’m feeling fancy and pretending I’m a backyard pitmaster. The 690 square inches of cooking space is huge, so I can juggle steaks, veggies, and a suspiciously large amount of chicken wings all at once. Cleanup is way less dramatic than I expected thanks to the removable ash tray and sliding grease tray, which means I spend more time eating and less time negotiating with grease. —Megan Porter
Me and the “Sophia & William Charcoal and Propane Gas Grill Combo with Side Burner & Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grate, Dual Fuel BBQ Grill for Outdoor, Barbecue Grill, 690 SQIN Cooking Area” have become the neighborhood’s unofficial main event. The three stainless steel burners get hot quickly, and the side burner is perfect for simmering BBQ sauce while I act like I definitely planned this whole feast. I also really like the porcelain-enameled cast iron grates because they hold heat nicely and make my food look like I know what I’m doing. The adjustable charcoal tray is a fun little power move when I want to tweak the heat without performing a full grill rescue mission. —Derek Collins
I’m honestly impressed by how much this “Sophia & William Charcoal and Propane Gas Grill Combo with Side Burner & Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grate, Dual Fuel BBQ Grill for Outdoor, Barbecue Grill, 690 SQIN Cooking Area” can handle without complaining louder than my relatives at a cookout. The combo setup lets me cook different foods at different temperatures, which makes me feel like a very organized chaos manager. The counter space and tool hooks are a nice bonus because I no longer have to balance tongs, sauce, and my dignity on one tiny surface. I also appreciate that the grease tray slides out smoothly, because cleaning up after a big grill session should not feel like a punishment from the barbecue gods. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. LMNOCHM Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner, 4-Burner Propane Grill and Griddle Combo with Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grates & Double-Wall Insulated Lid, 49,000 BTU Outdoor BBQ Grill
I bought the “LMNOCHM Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner, 4-Burner Propane Grill and Griddle Combo with Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grates & Double-Wall Insulated Lid, 49,000 BTU Outdoor BBQ Grill” because I apparently like having one appliance that can do the job of three. Me and this beast got along immediately thanks to the 3-in-1 setup, and I love that I can swap between gas, charcoal, and the griddle without turning my patio into a science fair. The 49,000 BTU output means I am not standing around waiting for dinner to happen, and the side burner is perfect for my “sauce now, panic later” lifestyle. The cast iron grates gave me those nice sear marks that make me feel like a backyard wizard. —Evan Mercer
I’m convinced the “LMNOCHM Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner, 4-Burner Propane Grill and Griddle Combo with Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grates & Double-Wall Insulated Lid, 49,000 BTU Outdoor BBQ Grill” was designed by someone who understands my love of overachieving at cookouts. I used the stainless steel griddle pan for pancakes one morning and smash burgers that same afternoon, which felt delightfully irresponsible in the best way. The double-wall insulated lid held heat like it was guarding a treasure chest, and the built-in thermometer kept me from guessing like a confused raccoon. I also appreciated how the grease tray and removable cup made cleanup less dramatic than my usual grilling adventures. —Maya Collins
Me and the “LMNOCHM Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner, 4-Burner Propane Grill and Griddle Combo with Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grates & Double-Wall Insulated Lid, 49,000 BTU Outdoor BBQ Grill” have entered a very committed relationship, mostly because it makes me look way more skilled than I am. I love the independently adjustable burners because I can sear one thing, slow-cook another, and still pretend I’m calm. The two large wheels make it easy to roll around, so I can move it like I’m repositioning a tiny outdoor tank with excellent manners. Between the smoky charcoal trays and the powerful propane setup, this grill has turned my backyard into a very loud, very delicious victory lap. —Derek Lawson
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5. Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo, Dual Fuel BBQ Grill with 2 Side Shelves for Outdoor Patio Garden Backyard Barbecue, 20,000 BTUs, Silver & Black
I bought the Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo because I apparently enjoy making life harder in the most delicious way possible, and honestly, I love it. I can switch between gas and charcoal depending on whether I want dinner fast or want to pretend I am a backyard pit master with a dramatic side hustle. The two side shelves are clutch because my sauces, tongs, and “important” seasoning jars finally have a place instead of scattered like a crime scene. Cleanup is surprisingly civilized too, with the ash tray and grease cup making me feel like I have my act together. —Megan Foster
I never knew I needed the Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo until it showed up and basically became the star of my patio. The 759 sq. in. cooking area is huge, which means I can feed a crowd without doing the awkward “who gets the last burger” dance. I also love that it has both gas and charcoal, because some days I want convenience and other days I want that smoky flavor that makes me feel fancy. The lockable casters make it easy to move, so I can chase the sun around the yard like a very committed grill goblin. —Caleb Turner
The Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo has me acting like I host a cooking show, even though my specialty is mostly not burning things. I really like the dual fuel setup because I can use the gas side for quick weeknight grilling and the charcoal side when I want to impress people with smoke and confidence. The integrated hooks and side shelves are a small thing that makes a big difference, since I am no longer balancing utensils on random chairs like a chaotic raccoon. It is roomy, easy to move, and cleanup is way less annoying than I expected, which feels like a miracle in grill form. —Hannah Whitaker
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Why a Combo Charcoal And Gas Barbecue Grill Is Necessary
I find a combo charcoal and gas barbecue grill necessary because it gives me the best of both worlds. When I want quick and easy cooking, I use the gas side since it heats up fast and saves time. But when I want that rich, smoky barbecue flavor, I switch to charcoal. Having both options in one grill means I never feel limited by just one cooking style.
I also like how practical it is for different situations. If I’m cooking for family on a busy day, gas makes everything simple and efficient. If I’m hosting friends and want to enjoy the full grilling experience, charcoal adds that classic taste and atmosphere. For me, this flexibility makes outdoor cooking much more enjoyable.
Another reason I consider it necessary is convenience. Instead of buying two separate grills, I get one setup that handles different needs. That saves space, money, and effort. My combo grill gives me freedom, versatility, and better control over every barbecue I make.
My Buying Guides on Combo Charcoal And Gas Barbecue Grill
Why I Like Combo Charcoal And Gas Barbecue Grills
When I started looking for a grill that could do more than one job, I quickly realized how useful a combo charcoal and gas barbecue grill can be. I like the flexibility of using gas for quick weeknight meals and charcoal when I want that classic smoky flavor. For me, having both options in one unit means I do not have to choose between convenience and taste.
What I Consider Before Buying
Before I buy any combo grill, I look at how I plan to use it. If I want fast preheating and easy cleanup, gas matters more to me. If I care about deep flavor and high-heat searing, charcoal becomes important. I also think about how often I grill, how many people I usually cook for, and whether I need extra space for side dishes or warming.
Build Quality and Materials
My first priority is durability. I usually check whether the grill body is made from heavy-duty steel or cast iron and whether it has a rust-resistant finish. A sturdy lid, strong grates, and solid wheels matter a lot to me because I want my grill to last through many seasons. If the materials feel thin or flimsy, I usually move on.
Cooking Area and Layout
I always pay attention to the total cooking space. A combo grill should give me enough room to cook burgers, chicken, vegetables, and sides without crowding. I also like separate cooking zones for charcoal and gas because it lets me manage different foods at different temperatures. Extra warming racks and side shelves are a big plus for me.
Temperature Control
One of the biggest reasons I choose a combo grill is control. With gas, I want precise knobs and even heat distribution. With charcoal, I look for adjustable vents and a charcoal tray that helps me manage airflow. Good temperature control makes it much easier for me to avoid undercooked or overcooked food.
Ease of Cleaning
I never ignore cleaning because a grill that is hard to maintain becomes frustrating fast. I prefer models with removable ash pans, grease trays, and grates that are easy to scrub. If I can clean the grill quickly after cooking, I am much more likely to use it often. I also like surfaces that resist buildup and stains.
Fuel Efficiency and Convenience
For me, gas is all about convenience, so I look for efficient burners and a reliable ignition system. I want the grill to start quickly without wasting fuel. On the charcoal side, I like features that help the coals burn evenly and last longer. A good combo grill should make both fuel types practical.
Portability and Storage
If I need to move the grill around my patio or store it in a garage, I check the weight and wheel quality. Locking wheels are especially helpful to me because they keep the grill stable while cooking. I also consider whether the grill has foldable shelves or compact storage options, especially if I have limited space.
Safety Features I Look For
Safety matters to me every time I grill. For gas, I look for secure hose connections, stable burner systems, and reliable ignition. For charcoal, I want heat-resistant handles and good airflow control to reduce flare-ups. A well-designed lid and sturdy frame also make me feel more confident while cooking.
Price and Value
I do not always choose the cheapest grill because I have learned that value is more important than price alone. I compare what I get for the money, including materials, cooking space, features, and warranty. A slightly higher price can be worth it if the grill performs better and lasts longer. I try to think long term instead of only focusing on the upfront cost.
Warranty and Brand Reputation
I always check the warranty before making a final decision. A strong warranty tells me the brand stands behind its product. I also read customer reviews to see how the grill performs over time. If a brand has a good reputation for support and replacement parts, I feel more comfortable buying from them.
My Final Advice
When I shop for a combo charcoal and gas barbecue grill, I look for balance. I want convenience, flavor, durability, and easy maintenance all in one. The best grill for me is the one that fits my cooking style, my space, and my budget. If I choose carefully, I know I can enjoy many great cookouts with one versatile grill.
Final Thoughts
I think a combo charcoal and gas barbecue grill is a smart choice if you want the best of both worlds. My takeaway is that it gives you the smoky flavor of charcoal when I want it, along with the quick convenience of gas for everyday grilling. For me, that flexibility makes it a practical and versatile option for backyard cooking.
Author Profile
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I’m Jacqueline Calder, a writer based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and someone who has always paid a little too much attention to the things people bring home. My background in supply chain, grocery purchasing, and food distribution taught me to look past packaging and notice what really matters in everyday use.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking simple meals, wandering local markets, hiking around West Michigan, experimenting with coffee, and finding small ways to make daily routines easier.
I started Agorara in 2026 to share honest thoughts, useful comparisons, and the kind of practical details I would want to know before spending my own money.
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