Our readers keep the lights on and my morning glass full of iced black tea. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.9 Best Charcoal And Gas Barbecue Grills | Two Fuels, One Master

Deciding between the instant heat of propane and the deep, smoky flavor of charcoal is a dilemma that stalls every backyard pitmaster. A dual-fuel grill eliminates the choice entirely, giving you the searing power of gas for weeknight burgers and the low-and-slow capability of charcoal for weekend brisket — all in one footprint.

I’m Min — the co-founder and writer behind Gadgets Feed. I’ve spent hundreds of hours dissecting the BTU ratings, grate materials, and build quality of dual-fuel grills to find the models that deliver real, consistent performance for both fuel types without compromise.

This guide breaks down the best charcoal and gas barbecue grills on the market, comparing cooking area, heat control, and durability to help you find the perfect match for your outdoor cooking style.

How To Choose The Best Charcoal And Gas Barbecue Grills

A dual-fuel grill is a significant purchase that should last multiple seasons. The key is understanding how the two cooking zones interact and whether the grill’s construction can handle the heat demands of both fuels without warping or rusting prematurely.

Total Cooking Area vs. Usable Space

Manufacturers often quote the total square inches by adding the primary cooking grate, the warming rack, and sometimes even the smoker box or firebox grate. What matters is the primary area — the space you actually put food on. A 750 sq. in. primary area split between gas and charcoal gives you roughly 375 sq. in. per side, which is enough for about 12 burgers on one side or a small brisket on the other.

Grate Material and Heat Retention

Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are the gold standard for dual-fuel grills. They retain and distribute heat evenly — critical when you are managing two vastly different heat sources — and resist rust far better than bare cast iron or stainless steel. The non-stick surface also makes cleanup easier, which matters when you are scrubbing ash and grease from two separate chambers.

Build Quality and Gauge Thickness

Thin sheet metal warps under the sustained high heat of a charcoal fire, leading to uneven cooking and eventual rust-through. Look for grills with heavy-gauge steel bodies and secure weld joints rather than spot-welded brackets. A grill that flexes when you push on the side shelf during assembly will only get looser with thermal cycling. Read customer reviews specifically about the lid fit and hinge tension — a loose lid on the charcoal side lets smoke escape and makes temperature control nearly impossible.

Quick Comparison

On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.

Model Category Best For Key Spec Amazon
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Premium True offset smoking plus gas grilling 750 sq. in. primary + 281 sq. in. firebox Amazon
Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus Premium Maximum versatility with griddle insert 1260 total sq. in. with griddle Amazon
Char-Griller Dual-Function E5030 Mid-Range Established brand with solid build 870 total sq. in.; 24,000 BTU Amazon
Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Mid-Range Good looks with hidden tank storage 759 total sq. in.; 20,000 BTU Amazon
Captiva Designs Dual Fuel Mid-Range Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates 690 total sq. in.; 520 sq. in. primary Amazon
MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 Mid-Range 3-burner gas side with side burner 690 total sq. in.; 37,000 BTU Amazon
SKOK 3-in-1 Combo Value Budget-friendly 3-in-1 charcoal/gas/griddle 331 total sq. in.; 45,000 BTU Amazon
Grills House ZH3005 Value Large 823 sq. in. with side burner 823 total sq. in.; 34,000 BTU Amazon
Grills House ZH3005Y Value Added offset smoker for under 1020 total sq. in.; 34,000 BTU Amazon

In‑Depth Reviews

Best Overall

1. Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo

Offset Smoker & Gas1031 sq. in.

The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo is the only grill on this list that pairs a true offset smoker firebox with a dedicated 3-burner propane gas grill in one chassis. The charcoal side gives you 750 sq. in. of primary smoking space — enough for two pork shoulders — while the firebox grate adds another 281 sq. in. for wings or sausage. On the gas side, three stainless steel burners deliver 36,000 BTU, reaching cooking temps fast with even heat distribution across porcelain-coated cast-iron grates.

Temperature management is pitmaster-grade: the offset smoker features adjustable dampers on both the firebox and smokestack, giving you precise control over smoke flow and internal temperature. Dual lid-mounted thermometers let you monitor both chambers independently, and the removable firebox ash pan makes cleanup far simpler than traditional offset smokers. The heavy-gauge steel body with a high-temp paint finish resists rust better than thinner competitors.

At this price point, you get legitimate offset smoking capability without sacrificing weeknight gas grilling. The Canyon Combo is essentially two full-sized cooking appliances sharing one footprint. Some users note the cooking area on the charcoal side requires fire tending every 25 minutes for long smokes, but that is the nature of offset smoking — not a flaw. For anyone serious about both smoking and grilling, this is the most capable dual-fuel setup available.

Why it’s great

  • True offset smoker firebox for authentic low-and-slow cooking
  • Heavy-gauge steel construction with high-temp finish
  • Separate 36,000 BTU propane side with cast-iron grates

Good to know

  • Requires frequent fire management on long smokes
  • Some units reported needing minor adjustment on gauge accuracy
  • Assembly is involved; expect 2-3 hours with two people
Most Versatile

2. Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3-in-1

Gas/Charcoal/Griddle1260 total sq. in.

The Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus redefines what a backyard cooking station can be. It combines a gas grill, a charcoal grill/smoker, and a flat-top griddle — all in one unit. The gas side uses three stainless steel burners for 30,000 BTU of output, and the included pre-seasoned flat-top griddle simply drops in place of the gas grates to handle bacon, fajitas, and breakfast hash. The charcoal side features an adjustable charcoal tray and dual dampers for temperature and smoke control, making it a legitimate smoker for ribs and brisket.

With 1,260 total cooking square inches, this grill has the largest total surface area on the list. The footprint is correspondingly large at 66.34 inches wide, so measure your patio space before committing. The flat-top griddle is a genuine differentiator — most dual-fuel grills require a separate purchase for griddle cooking, but this one ships with it in the box, and it sits flush over the gas burners for even heat transfer across the entire surface.

Build quality is a mixed bag: the steel is sturdy, but some early units arrived with rust on the grilling tray and thin paint coverage. Assembly is laborious and an impact driver will save you hours. If you want one machine that can smoke a brisket, sear steaks, and cook a full breakfast spread without buying extra accessories, the Flex Fuel Plus is unmatched. Just budget for a quality cover immediately to protect the metal surfaces.

Why it’s great

  • Includes pre-seasoned flat-top griddle for true all-in-one cooking
  • Largest total cooking area at 1,260 sq. in.
  • Adjustable charcoal tray and dual dampers for smoking

Good to know

  • Some units reported rust on grilling tray out of the box
  • Very wide footprint requires generous patio space
  • Assembly is time-consuming with many small parts
Great Build

3. Char-Griller Dual-Function E5030

870 sq. in.24,000 BTU

The Char-Griller E5030 is the most established dual-function grill on this list, and its longevity on the market speaks to solid engineering. The gas side runs on two stainless steel burners producing 24,000 BTU total — enough to hit searing temperatures of 500°F on high — while the charcoal side includes Char-Griller’s patented EasyDump Ash Pan for quick cleanup mid-cook. The 870 sq. in. total cooking area includes porcelain-coated cast iron grates on both sides, which retain heat far better than the stainless steel found on cheaper combos.

One of the standout features is the dual temperature gauges, one per lid, so you can monitor the gas and charcoal chambers independently. The charcoal side requires some technique to keep the temperature below 400°F for low-and-slow cooking; closing the air vent gradually is the most reliable method, and experienced charcoal users will appreciate the control. The side shelf with utensil hooks provides practical prep space without taking up additional floor area.

Assembly is more involved than the claimed 45 minutes — expect closer to 2.5 hours, and a few customers reported missing washers. The build quality, however, is notably thicker than budget alternatives, with heavy-gauge sheet metal and a durable matte powder coat finish. Over the long term, the E5030 holds up well to thermal cycling, and replacement parts are widely available given Char-Griller’s distribution network.

Why it’s great

  • Thick sheet metal with durable powder-coated finish
  • Porcelain-coated cast iron grates for even heat distribution
  • EasyDump Ash Pan for quick charcoal cleanup

Good to know

  • Assembly takes significantly longer than advertised
  • Charcoal side runs hot; needs air vent management for low temps
  • Missing hardware reported in some units
Sleek Design

4. Royal Gourmet ZH3002N

759 sq. in.20,000 BTU

The Royal Gourmet ZH3002N stands out for its cosmetic design — the cabinet-style base hides the propane tank behind two doors, giving the grill a cleaner, more finished look than exposed-tank models. With a 759 sq. in. total cooking area (592 sq. in. of primary grates plus a 167 sq. in. warming rack), it comfortably handles up to 30 burgers simultaneously. The gas side uses two burners producing 20,000 BTU, and the charcoal side features a slide-out ash tray for quick cleanup.

Movement is handled by two 6-inch wheels and two 3-inch lockable casters, making it easy to reposition even on uneven patio surfaces. The side shelves provide solid prep space, and integrated utensil hooks keep tools accessible. The cooking grates are porcelain-coated, offering better rust resistance than bare steel, though the overall metal gauge is lighter than the premium Char-Griller models — something to consider if you live in a humid climate.

Assembly is the primary pain point: the instructions are unclear and several customers reported missing hardware. Once assembled, the grill performs well, with the gas side heating evenly and the charcoal side holding steady temps for most cooking needs. Some users noted the charcoal handle came loose mid-cook because bolts were not fully tightened during assembly — a reminder to double-check every fastener. For the price, the Royal Gourmet delivers a balanced combination of aesthetics and function, especially for those who prioritize a tidy outdoor kitchen appearance.

Why it’s great

  • Cabinet-style doors hide propane tank for cleaner look
  • Large primary cooking area at 592 sq. in.
  • Easy to move with two large wheels and lockable casters

Good to know

  • Assembly instructions are confusing and unclear
  • Metal gauge is thinner than premium competitors
  • Charcoal handle may loosen if bolts not fully tightened
Premium Grates

5. Captiva Designs Dual Fuel Combo

Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron690 sq. in.

The Captiva Designs dual-fuel grill centers on a 690 sq. in. total cooking area, split into 520 sq. in. of porcelain-enameled cast iron primary grates and a 170 sq. in. stainless steel warming rack. The porcelain-enameled cast iron is the highlight here — it combines the heat retention and even cooking of traditional cast iron with a non-stick, rust-resistant surface that cleans up far easier than bare iron. Three stainless steel burners power the gas side, while the charcoal side uses an enameled charcoal tray to distribute heat evenly across the grates.

Temperature control on the charcoal side is handled by an adjustable charcoal pan that lets you raise or lower the fuel bed relative to the cooking surface. This gives you real control over direct versus indirect heat — useful for everything from searing steaks to slow-cooking chicken. The separate grease tray and ash drawer slide out for easy disposal, and the grease tray is tilted to direct oil into a hanging collection cup, which is a smart design detail that keeps the cabinet floor clean.

Assembly is manageable with two people in about 1.5 hours, but one recurring complaint is that the gas line is longer than necessary, creating excess hose behind the grill. The side shelves are adequate but some users noted they warp slightly under high heat from the charcoal side if the grill is too close to the shelf. At this price point, the Captiva Designs offers strong value for the grate quality alone, and the dual-fuel performance is reliable for weekend cooking.

Why it’s great

  • Thick porcelain-enameled cast iron grates for even heat and easy cleanup
  • Adjustable charcoal pan for direct/indirect heat control
  • Tilted grease tray and slide-out ash drawer simplify cleanup

Good to know

  • Gas line is longer than necessary; creates loose hose
  • Side shelves may warp under intense charcoal heat
  • Primary cooking area is modest at 520 sq. in.
3-Burner Power

6. MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 Dual-Fuel

37,000 BTUSide Burner Included

The MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 is structurally similar to the Captiva Designs model, sharing the same 690 sq. in. total cooking area and porcelain-enameled cast iron grates, but it adds a dedicated side burner for sauces and sides. The gas zone is powered by three stainless steel burners delivering 37,000 BTU, which is the highest BTU rating among the mid-range dual-fuel grills on this list. That additional burner gives you better flame coverage across the gas cooking surface, reducing cold spots compared to two-burner alternatives.

The charcoal side includes an adjustable enameled charcoal tray with a three-position height setting, letting you dial in the distance between coals and food for searing or slow-cooking. Dual-layer hoods on both sides have built-in stainless steel thermometers, and the control knobs are mounted on a stainless panel that resists corrosion better than painted metal. The side burner is genuinely useful — not just a gimmick — with its own independent control valve and enough output to simmer a pot of beans while the main grills are running.

Customers consistently praise the build quality for the price, noting the unit feels sturdier than expected and the non-stick grates clean up quickly. The gas side burner heat distribution is slightly uneven at the edges, a common issue with budget burners. Assembly is complex and absolutely requires two people due to the weight of the steel body. Overall, the MFSTUDIO delivers a strong combination of cooking power and surface area for weekend gatherings.

Why it’s great

  • Three stainless steel burners produce 37,000 BTU for even heat
  • Dedicated side burner for sauces and side dishes
  • Sturdy build quality with stainless control panel

Good to know

  • Gas burner heat slightly uneven at edges of the grate
  • Assembly is heavy and requires two people
  • Primary cooking area is still modest at 520 sq. in.
Best Value

7. SKOK 3-in-1 Combo

45,000 BTU3-in-1 Design

The SKOK 3-in-1 Combo is the most aggressive value proposition on the market right now. It packs a gas grill, a charcoal grill, and a flat griddle into a single compact unit at an entry-level price point. The gas side runs on four independently controlled stainless steel tube burners producing 45,000 BTU — the highest total BTU on this list — giving you genuine zone control across the cooking surface. The griddle area measures 184.51 sq. in., while the grilling area offers 146.48 sq. in., and a free charcoal box with an enameled cooking grate is included so you can choose between cast iron and enameled surfaces.

Design convenience is clearly a priority here. The SKOK includes a paper towel holder, bottle opener, thermometer, storage shelf, bottom tray, and hooks — accessories that typically cost extra or require a separate purchase. The dual-lid design helps with heat retention on both cooking zones. The 2-in-1 oil and ash drip tray channels grease into a cup and collects ash simultaneously, making cleanup far faster than separate systems.

The trade-off for the low price is size and build density. The total cooking surface is modest — 331 sq. in. combined — so this is best for couples, small families, or campers who need portability. The metal frame is lighter gauge than the premium models, and the griddle surface, while functional, does not have the same heat-spreading mass as a dedicated flat-top. For anyone wanting to experiment with dual-fuel cooking without a large financial commitment, the SKOK is the ideal entry point.

Why it’s great

  • Highest BTU output at 45,000 with four independent burners
  • Includes griddle, charcoal box, and accessories out of the box
  • Compact size and integrated paper towel holder/bottle opener

Good to know

  • Total cooking area is small at 331 sq. in.
  • Lighter metal gauge than premium options
  • Griddle surface lacks heat mass for even browning
Large Surface

8. Grills House ZH3005

823 sq. in.Side Burner

The Grills House ZH3005 offers a generous 823 sq. in. total cooking area, split evenly between a 333 sq. in. gas zone and a 333 sq. in. charcoal zone, plus a 157 sq. in. warming rack. This is one of the few budget-friendly combos that gives you genuinely equal real estate on both fuel sides — most cheaper models prioritize one side over the other. The gas burners produce 12,000 BTU each (24,000 BTU total), and a separate 10,000 BTU side burner handles sauces or sides. The piezo ignition lights without needing a battery, which is one less thing to fail in outdoor conditions.

The charcoal side includes a height-adjustable charcoal pan, a smoke stack, and a side air vent — the same temperature-control toolkit found on grills costing significantly more. The dual lid-mounted thermometers let you monitor each chamber independently. The right-side shelf provides prep space, and the side burner lid doubles as additional workspace when not in use. At this price, the feature set is genuinely impressive.

Build quality is where the ZH3005 shows its budget roots. The assembly instructions are notoriously poor — customers consistently report needing a video guide to avoid mistakes. The metal gauge is thinner than mid-range options, and the overall weight of 78.3 pounds reflects a lighter construction. For anyone who is comfortable with a challenging assembly and wants maximum cooking area per dollar, the ZH3005 delivers massive capacity without the premium price tag.

Why it’s great

  • 823 sq. in. total with equal 333 sq. in. gas and charcoal zones
  • Height-adjustable charcoal pan and smoke stack for temperature control
  • Piezo ignition system with no battery required

Good to know

  • Assembly instructions are unclear; video guide strongly recommended
  • Thinner metal gauge than mid-range and premium models
  • Cooking area may be tight for very large gatherings
Smoker Included

9. Grills House ZH3005Y

Offset Smoker1020 sq. in.

The Grills House ZH3005Y is the same base platform as the ZH3005, but adds an attached offset smoker for the lowest price we have seen on a dual-fuel, smoker-equipped combo. The total cooking area jumps to 1,020 sq. in., including 666 sq. in. of primary cooking space (333 sq. in. gas, 333 sq. in. charcoal), a 157 sq. in. warming rack, and a 197 sq. in. offset smoker chamber. That offset box functions as either a traditional smoker for low-and-slow cooking or an extra charcoal grill with a side door for easy fuel and ash access.

The gas burners deliver 24,000 BTU from two stainless steel tubes, and the 10,000 BTU side burner is still present for sides. The charcoal side retains the same adjustable 3-level pan for heat regulation, and the offset smoker has its own dedicated grate. The max charcoal capacity is 3.3 lb. in the main charcoal chamber and 1.5 lb. in the offset smoker — enough for a few hours of smoking without refueling. For the price, adding a true offset smoker to a dual-fuel grill is an unusual value.

The same assembly frustrations apply here: the instructions are vague, the pictures are small, and a video guide is essential. The offset smoker adds even more parts to the build process, so expect a full afternoon of setup. Build quality is thin-gauge steel, and the smoker chamber will need careful seasoning to avoid rust. For budget-conscious cooks who want to experiment with smoking without buying a separate smoker, the ZH3005Y is the most affordable path into three cooking methods.

Why it’s great

  • Includes offset smoker chamber at an entry-level price
  • 1,020 total sq. in. cooking area across three cooking zones
  • 3-level adjustable charcoal pan for heat regulation

Good to know

  • Assembly is extremely time-consuming with poor instructions
  • Thin-gauge steel requires careful seasoning and maintenance
  • Smoker chamber capacity is limited to 1.5 lb. of charcoal

FAQ

Can I use the charcoal and gas sides at the same time?
Yes, every dual-fuel grill on this list has independently controlled gas and charcoal zones. You can run the gas burners for searing steaks while the charcoal side smokes a pork shoulder, all at the same time. Just ensure the grill is positioned safely away from structures, as both sides generate significant heat simultaneously.
Which grate material requires the least maintenance for a dual-fuel grill?
Porcelain-enameled cast iron requires the least maintenance. The enamel coating prevents rust without needing regular oiling, and food release is significantly better than bare cast iron or stainless steel. After each cook, a quick scrape with a brass brush and a wipe-down is sufficient. Never use abrasive cleaners or metal scrapers that could chip the enamel.
Does a higher BTU rating mean the gas side cooks faster?
Not necessarily. BTU measures total gas consumption, not cooking efficiency. A grill with 30,000 BTU spread across three burners may heat more evenly than a 45,000 BTU grill with poor flame distribution. Look at burner count and placement — you want the burners to cover the full length of the cooking grate without large gaps. Also consider the mass of the cooking grates; heavier cast iron grates take longer to heat up but hold temperature better during cooking.

Final Thoughts: The Verdict

For most users, the best charcoal and gas barbecue grills winner is the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo because it delivers a genuine offset smoker experience alongside a powerful 36,000 BTU gas grill in one durable package. If you want maximum versatility with a built-in griddle and the largest cooking area, grab the Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus. And for budget-conscious cooks who need value above all else, nothing beats the SKOK 3-in-1 Combo for its 45,000 BTU output and included accessories at an entry-level price point.