9 Best 3-in-1 Grill | 3-in-1 Grill With Gas Charcoal and Griddle

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A 3-in-1 grill collapses three separate cooking stations into one frame: propane for weekday speed, charcoal for weekend smoke, and a griddle surface for breakfast or seared vegetables. That single footprint solves the logic puzzle of owning two grills while leaving room for a patio table. The real question is whether the execution matches the promise — because combining fuels introduces heat management challenges that single-fuel grills never face.

I’m Min — the co-founder and writer behind Gadgets Feed. I spend my time dissecting BTU ratings, grate materials, and temperature consistency across dual-fuel builds so you don’t have to guess whether that side burner adds real utility or just marketing weight.

This guide breaks down the top contenders by weld quality, cooking area geometry, and fuel flexibility to help you find the best 3-in-1 grill for your backyard setup and cooking style.

How To Choose The Best 3-in-1 Grill

A 3-in-1 grill is a compromise engine. The challenge is finding a build where the gas burners, charcoal tray, and griddle surface each perform well enough that you don’t end up using only one of the three. Prioritize the fuel type you will use most, then verify the secondary systems don’t feel like afterthoughts.

Cooking Area Geometry vs. Total Square Inches

Manufacturers advertise total square inches by summing the primary grate, warming rack, and sometimes the firebox. What matters is the usable primary cooking area on the gas side and the charcoal side independently. A 690-square-inch figure loses value if the gas section is only 250 inches. Measure the actual flame coverage, not the marketing number.

Grate Material and Heat Retention

Cast iron grates retain heat for searing but require seasoning and maintenance. Porcelain-enameled cast iron adds a non-stick, rust-resistant layer that holds up better in humid environments. Stainless steel grates heat quickly and clean easily but rarely achieve the same surface temperature for a hard sear.

Fuel Flexibility and Temperature Control

The charcoal side must have an adjustable tray height or air damper system to manage temperature. Gas burners need independent control zones — three burners are better than two for creating indirect heat for larger cuts. A side burner rated above 8,000 BTU can handle sauces and sides without stealing flame from the main cooktop.

Quick Comparison

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Model Category Best For Key Spec Amazon
MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 Premium Best Overall 690 sq in / 37,000 BTU / Porcelain-enameled cast iron Amazon
Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus Premium Largest cooking surface 1,260 sq in / 30,000 BTU / Flat-top griddle included Amazon
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Premium Serious smoking capability 1,031 sq in / 36,000 BTU / Offset smoker design Amazon
GREEN PARTY 3-Burner Combo Mid-Range Adjustable charcoal tray control 685 sq in / 37,000 BTU / Height-adjustable charcoal pan Amazon
Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function Mid-Range Value dual fuel setup 870 sq in / 24,000 BTU / EasyDump ash pan Amazon
GRILL DEPOTS 2-in-1 Combo Mid-Range Side-by-side gas and charcoal 673 sq in / 41,500 BTU / Perforated griddle pan Amazon
Kenmore 3-Burner Mid-Range Compact storage with folding tables 512 sq in total / 30,000 BTU / Collapsible side tables Amazon
Nice Cooker 4-Burner Combo Budget Entry-level 3-in-1 versatility 448 sq in / 46,750 BTU / Charcoal smoker pans included Amazon
Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Premium Electric pellet versatility 141 sq in / Electric / 7-in-1 functions with air fryer Amazon

In‑Depth Reviews

Best Overall

1. MFSTUDIO 3 In 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo

Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grates690 sq in Total Area

The MFSTUDIO Combo delivers the most balanced dual-fuel configuration in this lineup, with a 520-square-inch primary cooking area split across independent gas and charcoal zones. Three stainless steel burners push 37,000 BTU on the gas side, while the charcoal section uses an adjustable enameled tray for temperature control. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates offer the heat retention of cast iron without the aggressive rust maintenance that comes with traditional bare cast iron.

A 170-square-inch warming rack and a side burner rated for side dishes round out the package. The dual-layer hoods include built-in thermometers, so you can monitor each chamber without lifting the lid and bleeding heat. Owners report assembly taking about an hour with clear instructions, and the pull-out grease tray on the gas side plus the ash drawer on the charcoal side simplify cleanup considerably.

Two swivel casters and two fixed wheels make repositioning manageable on patio surfaces. The frame uses a combination of cast iron and stainless steel, giving it a stable feel during use. A one-year warranty backs the build, and customer service responsiveness has been noted as a strong point in user feedback.

Why it’s great

  • Porcelain-enameled grates resist rust and clean easily
  • Independent charcoal and gas zones with separate hoods
  • 37,000 BTU gas output delivers strong searing heat

Good to know

  • Gas burner heat distribution can be slightly uneven across the full surface
  • Assembly is manageable but requires two people for the main frame
Monster Surface

2. Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3 in 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill Griddle and Smoker

1,260 sq in Cooking AreaPre-Seasoned Flat-Top Griddle Included

The Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus dominates on sheer capacity with 1,260 square inches of total cooking space, including a charcoal side for smoking and a gas side with three stainless steel burners producing 30,000 BTU. What separates this unit is the included pre-seasoned flat-top griddle that replaces the gas grates, turning the propane section into a full breakfast station for burgers, fajitas, or bacon. That single swap expands the cooking repertoire without needing a separate griddle top.

The charcoal side features an adjustable tray and dual dampers for smoke control, allowing low-and-slow cooking alongside fast gas grilling. The gas side fires up with automatic ignition, and the uniform flame pattern from the three burners provides decent heat spread across the griddle surface. Users consistently report using both sides every weekend, with the griddle getting as much use as the charcoal smoker.

Build quality is a mixed bag at this price point. The main frame feels sturdy, but some units have arrived with thin sheet metal sections and minor rust spots on the grilling tray before first use. The assembly process is labor-intensive — an impact driver is strongly recommended for the numerous fasteners. The plastic handles feel less premium than the rest of the unit, but the overall footprint is manageable for the cooking area offered.

Why it’s great

  • Enormous 1,260 sq in total cooking capacity
  • Pre-seasoned flat-top griddle included for gas side
  • Charcoal side with dual dampers for smoke management

Good to know

  • Some units have thin steel with surface rust issues
  • Assembly is time-consuming with many small parts
Real Smoker

3. Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Smoker and Grill

1031 sq in TotalOffset Smoker Design with 281 sq in Firebox Grate

Oklahoma Joe’s brings offset smoker expertise into this dual-fuel design, pairing a 750-square-inch charcoal smoker with a 36,000 BTU three-burner propane grill. The charcoal side is a true offset smoker with an adjustable firebox and smokestack damper, allowing the user to dial in consistent temperatures for brisket or pork shoulder over several hours. The firebox grate adds another 281 square inches, bringing the total to 1,031 square inches and providing a dedicated space for grilling wings or burgers while the main chamber smokes.

The propane side uses three burners to reach cooking temperature quickly and maintain even heat across porcelain-coated cast iron grates. These grates resist rust better than bare cast iron and hold heat well for searing. Dual lid-mounted temperature gauges give you readings for both chambers, which is essential when running a low-and-slow smoke alongside a hot gas cook. The firebox ash pan slides out for cleaning, saving time compared to scooping ash from a fixed tray.

Heavy-gauge steel construction and a high-temperature finish contribute to durability, though the unit is heavy and requires careful assembly. Owners note that the firebox vent and stack should remain wide open during smoking sessions, using the coal fuel load to regulate temperature rather than restricting airflow. The gas side can reach over 300°F with a single burner, making it useful for indirect cooking on the propane side as well.

Why it’s great

  • True offset smoker design with adjustable dampers
  • Porcelain-coated cast iron grates for even heat and rust resistance
  • Dual temperature gauges for independent zone monitoring

Good to know

  • Requires frequent fire tending every 20-30 minutes during long smokes
  • Two casters instead of four; lifting by shelf can stress welds
Precise Control

4. GREEN PARTY 3 Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo

Height-Adjustable Charcoal Pan37,000 BTU / 685 sq in Total

The GREEN PARTY Combo stands out for its charcoal temperature management system — a height-adjustable charcoal pan controlled by a crank that lets you set the distance between coals and food without lifting the lid. This feature is rare in the mid-range segment and directly addresses the biggest complaint about charcoal grilling: runaway heat. The gas side uses three main burners plus a side burner, together delivering 37,000 BTU across 685 square inches of porcelain-enameled cast iron grates.

Dual-layered hoods include lid-mounted dampers and an invisible front air vent that promotes airflow without requiring the user to open the lid. This keeps heat loss minimal during temperature adjustments. The grease management system on the gas side funnels drippings into a removable cup, while the charcoal ash tray collects debris for quick disposal. Users consistently praise the build quality and sleek design, noting that the grill feels heavy-duty and stable once assembled.

Assembly takes roughly three hours for two people, mainly due to the size rather than complexity. A minority of units have shown uneven heat distribution on the gas side — specifically the front edge running cooler than the back corner. The side burner is a welcome addition for sauces and sides, and the overall fuel flexibility makes this a strong contender for anyone who prioritizes charcoal control above sheer cooking area.

Why it’s great

  • Crank-adjustable charcoal tray for precise heat control
  • Lid-mounted dampers and air vent for smoke management
  • Dual-layer hoods with built-in thermometers

Good to know

  • Gas side heat can be uneven from front to back
  • Assembly is a large project — block out several hours
Classic Combo

5. Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Propane Gas and Charcoal Combination Grill and Smoker E5030

870 sq in TotalEasyDump Ash Pan + Side Burner

Char-Griller’s E5030 is a dual-function workhorse that pairs a gas grill with a side-mounted charcoal smoker barrel, giving you 870 square inches of cooking capacity — enough for large gatherings without occupying a massive patio footprint. The gas side uses two stainless steel burners rated at 24,000 BTU total, with porcelain-coated cast iron grates that hold heat well. Two temperature gauges let you monitor each chamber independently, which is critical when running the gas side hot for steaks while the charcoal side does a low-and-slow smoke.

The EasyDump ash pan on the charcoal side is a genuine time-saver — instead of scooping ash from a fixed tray, you pull and dump it in seconds. The side burner adds convenience for sauces or searing in a pan. The powder-coated finish and alloy steel frame feel sturdy, and owners consistently rate the build quality higher than expected at this price tier. Some units have arrived with minor fastener shortages, and the assembly instructions tend to underestimate the time required by a factor of three.

Temperature regulation takes practice: the gas side ranges from roughly 300°F on low to 500°F on high with both burners, while the charcoal side runs hot — often exceeding 400°F with limited airflow — requiring active damper management. The primary cooking area is about 40% smaller than older Char-Griller models, so measure your needs against the listed dimensions. For the price, this combo delivers genuine dual-fuel functionality without the premium markup of offset smokers.

Why it’s great

  • EasyDump ash pan simplifies charcoal cleanup
  • Porcelain-coated cast iron grates for even heat and easy cleaning
  • Dual temperature gauges for independent zone monitoring

Good to know

  • Assembly can take 3-4x the stated time; may be missing hardware
  • Charcoal side runs very hot; requires frequent air damper adjustments
Side-by-Side

6. GRILL DEPOTS Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo 2-in-1

673 sq in TotalPerforated Griddle Pan + 41,500 BTU

GRILL DEPOTS positions the gas and charcoal grills side by side with three independently adjustable burners on the propane side delivering 10,000 BTU each, plus a 9,000 BTU side burner. Total output hits 41,500 BTU across a 673-square-inch cooking area. The double-layer stainless steel lid resists warping better than single-layer powder-coated alternatives, which is a legitimate concern for combo grills that see both high-heat gas fires and smoldering charcoal sessions over several seasons.

The cast iron grill grates feature a perforated griddle pan that allows heat and smoke to pass through the holes for direct flame contact while still providing a flat surface for eggs or vegetables. This hybrid approach is clever — you get the cross-hatch sear marks from the grates and the even surface of a griddle without swapping hardware. The pull-out grease tray and non-stick grate coating make cleanup faster than standard cast iron designs.

Four wheels make it easy to move across a patio, and the side prep table provides useful workspace without taking up extra permanent space. Owners highlight easy assembly and clear instructions as strong points, with a few units arriving with minor shipping damage that customer service resolved promptly. The 673-square-inch figure includes a 163-square-inch warming rack, so the primary cooking area is closer to 510 square inches.

Why it’s great

  • Perforated griddle pan offers grate and flat-top cooking without swapping
  • Double-layer stainless steel lid resists warping over time
  • Side burner at 9,000 BTU handles sauces and sides effectively

Good to know

  • Primary cooking area is about 510 sq in after accounting for warming rack
  • Surface area feels limited if you cook exclusively on gas or charcoal
Compact Style

7. Kenmore 3-Burner Propane BBQ Grill

512 sq in TotalFolding Side Tables for Storage

The Kenmore 3-Burner is a propane-only grill — not a true 3-in-1 — but its folding side tables and compact footprint make it a strong candidate for users who prioritize storage flexibility over fuel versatility. The total cooking surface spans 512 square inches (381 primary plus 131 warming rack), enough for up to 20 burgers or feeding 4-6 people. The cast iron cooking grates distribute and retain heat well, delivering consistent searing across the primary surface.

The grill collapses from 51 inches wide to 32.5 inches when the side tables fold down, making it one of the more space-efficient options for smaller patios or balconies. Electronic ignition lights with one button, and the built-in lid thermometer provides temperature feedback without lifting. Four caster wheels with two locking casters add mobility and stability on uneven ground. The powder-coated alloy steel frame has held up well for owners reporting 18 months of regular use with no ignition issues.

Assembly is manageable for one person, though the handles are described as slightly cheap-feeling. The 30,000 BTU output across three burners provides solid heat for standard grilling — not as powerful as high-end units but sufficient for burgers, chicken, and vegetables. The lack of a charcoal or griddle option means this isn’t a 3-in-1 in the traditional sense, but the fold-down design and reliable performance make it a practical propane grill for tight spaces.

Why it’s great

  • Folding side tables collapse to 32.5 inches for compact storage
  • Cast iron grates provide even heat distribution for searing
  • Reliable electronic ignition after extended use

Good to know

  • Propane-only — no charcoal or griddle functionality
  • Handles feel cheaper than the rest of the build
Budget Friendly

8. Nice Cooker 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill Combo with Side Burner and Charcoal Smoker

46,750 BTU448 sq in / Dual Enamel Charcoal Pans

The Nice Cooker Combo packs a 4-burner gas grill, a side burner, and dual enamel charcoal pans into a single station at an entry-level price point. With five stainless steel burners producing 46,750 BTU total, this unit has the highest raw BTU output in the list — though raw BTUs don’t always translate to even heat distribution. The 448-square-inch cooking area includes a 340-square-inch primary surface and a 108-square-inch warming rack, both using cast iron cooking grates for decent heat retention.

The double-layer stainless steel lid helps maintain internal temperature better than single-layer designs at this tier. The pull-out grease tray and integrated cup with an arc-shaped drainage channel simplify cleanup, though the gas hose placement can interfere with the propane tank shut-off valve — a noted design oversight. The cart frame feels light, and the grates have a thinner profile than premium models, but the unit performs as advertised for the price.

Assembly is a significant undertaking — reviewers report 5-hour build times with incomplete instructions. Maximum grill temperature tops out around 550-600°F, which is respectable but not searing-hot for users who want a deep crust on steaks. The included charcoal smoker pans add genuine versatility for the price, making this a functional entry point for someone who wants to explore 3-in-1 grilling without a big investment.

Why it’s great

  • Highest BTU output in the list at 46,750 for fast heating
  • Included charcoal smoker pans for smoky flavor without a separate unit
  • Double-layer stainless steel lid for improved heat retention

Good to know

  • Assembly instructions are incomplete; expect 5+ hours
  • Gas hose placement interferes with propane tank valve access
Electric Innovation

9. Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill

7-in-1 FunctionsElectric Powered with Real Wood Pellet Smoke

The Ninja Woodfire Pro is a different beast entirely — it’s an electrically powered outdoor cooker that uses real hardwood pellets for smoke flavor, combined with air frying, baking, roasting, and dehydrating functions. The 141-square-inch nonstick grill grate is smaller than traditional grills, but the trade-off is the ability to air fry fries, bake cornbread, and smoke a brisket — all in the same weather-resistant unit that lives outside year-round. The built-in thermometer monitors food temperature and alerts when done, taking the guesswork out of longer cooks.

The pellet system uses just half a cup of Ninja Woodfire Pellets per session, which are used strictly for flavor rather than fuel. The electric heating element does the cooking work, so there’s no propane tank, no charcoal bag, and no flare-ups. The crisper basket expands the menu to include wings, shrimp, and vegetables with a smoky finish. Cleanup is straightforward with nonstick surfaces, and the unit is light enough at 30.6 pounds to move between patio and storage.

The interface has a learning curve — the mode knob resets settings if bumped, and the Woodfire smoke toggle requires a specific sequence to activate mid-cook. The audible alerts for flipping food cycle repeatedly, which some users find intrusive. Smoke flavor is present but milder than a charcoal or offset smoker produces. For apartment dwellers or anyone who wants grill-plus-air-fryer versatility in a single compact appliance, this fills a unique niche.

Why it’s great

  • 7-in-1 functionality includes air fryer, smoker, and dehydrator
  • Electrically powered — no propane or charcoal needed
  • Weather-resistant design for year-round outdoor storage

Good to know

  • Cooking surface is small at 141 sq in — not for large gatherings
  • Interface controls are finicky; alerts can be persistent

FAQ

Can I use both the gas and charcoal sides at the same time?
Yes, most 3-in-1 combo grills are designed with independent cooking zones that operate simultaneously. Running both sides at once doubles your cooking area for large gatherings, but it also raises the ambient temperature around the unit and can make the gas side run hotter than expected. Monitor both lid thermometers closely during simultaneous use.
What size propane tank fits a 3-in-1 combo grill?
Standard 20-pound propane tanks fit virtually all combo grills. The tank sits in a cabinet or on a hook at the base of the cart. Check the hose routing — some budget models place the grease bucket or shut-off valve in a position that makes tank access awkward. A 20-pound tank at full capacity provides roughly 18-20 hours of grilling at medium heat with three burners.
Do I need a cover for a 3-in-1 grill?
Yes. Combo grills contain more exposed mechanisms — dampers, side burner valves, and charcoal tray cranks — than standard grills. A weather-resistant cover prevents rust on the charcoal chamber and keeps the gas burner tubes clear of debris. Even grills marketed as weather-resistant benefit from a cover when not in use for more than a few days.
How do I clean the griddle plate on a 3-in-1 grill?
Scrape food residue off the griddle while it is still warm using a metal spatula or scraper. Wipe with a paper towel, apply a thin layer of cooking oil using a cloth, and avoid soap and water after the initial seasoning is established. For perforated griddle pans — like the one included with the GRILL DEPOTS model — a grill brush works better to clear the holes.

Final Thoughts: The Verdict

For most users, the best 3-in-1 grill winner is the MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 Combo because it combines porcelain-enameled cast iron grates, independent gas and charcoal zones with separate hoods, and effective 37,000 BTU output at a mid-range price. If you need the largest possible cooking surface, grab the Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus and its 1,260 square inches with included flat-top griddle. And for serious offset smoking capability, nothing beats the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo with its dedicated firebox and adjustable damper system.

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