For outdoor cooking enthusiasts, the eternal debate between gas and charcoal grilling often feels like choosing between convenience and flavor. Gas grills offer quick startup times and precise temperature control, while charcoal grills deliver that unmistakable smoky taste and high-heat searing capability. But what if you didn’t have to choose?
Enter the combo grill and smoker – a versatile cooking station that combines multiple fuel types into a single unit. The best combo grill and smoker options for 2025 give you the freedom to fire up propane for quick weeknight dinners or light the charcoal when you have time to savor the cooking process. Many models also include offset smoker fireboxes for authentic low-and-slow barbecue.
Whether you call them hybrid grills, 3-in-1 grills, or dual-fuel combo grills, these versatile cooking machines are transforming backyard barbecue. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top gas and charcoal combo grills available today, break down what features matter most, and help you find the perfect combo grill for your outdoor cooking needs.
From budget-friendly options to premium models with massive cooking areas, we’ve tested and researched the best combo grills to bring you our top recommendations for 2025.
Quick Roundup List
- Best 3-in-1 Versatile: Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3-in-1
- Best for Serious Smokers: Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo
- Best Premium Option: Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX
- Best Value: Royal Gourmet ZH3002N
- Best Budget with Side Burner: Royal Gourmet ZH3005
Why Choose a Combo Grill?
Investing in a combo grill and smoker offers several compelling advantages over owning separate cooking units. Here’s why more grillers are making the switch to hybrid grill setups.
Gas Convenience When You Need It
The gas grill side of a combo unit gives you the convenience of quick-start cooking. With the push of a button or turn of a knob, you can have your grill preheated and ready to cook in minutes. Temperature control is precise and consistent, making gas ideal for weeknight dinners when time is limited. The stainless steel burners found in quality combo grills provide even heat distribution across the cooking surface.
Authentic Charcoal Flavor
Nothing quite matches the taste of food cooked over charcoal. The charcoal grill side of your combo unit delivers that classic smoky flavor and allows for higher heat searing than most gas grills can achieve. Adjustable charcoal trays and dampers give you control over temperature and smoke levels, letting you dial in the perfect cooking environment for steaks, burgers, and more.
True Smoking Capability
Many combo grills include offset smoker fireboxes or integrated smoking chambers. This means you can cook low and slow for authentic barbecue results. Whether you’re smoking brisket, pork shoulder, or ribs, having smoker functionality built into your grill station opens up a world of culinary possibilities.
Space and Cost Savings
Rather than purchasing separate gas grills, charcoal grills, and smokers, a combo unit consolidates everything into one footprint. This is particularly valuable for those with limited patio space or anyone who wants to simplify their outdoor cooking setup. You’ll save money compared to buying individual units while gaining more cooking versatility.
How to Choose the Best Combo Grill
Selecting the right combo grill and smoker requires understanding several key factors. Here’s what to consider before making your purchase.
Fuel Type Combinations
Most combo grills combine gas and charcoal cooking chambers positioned side by side. Some models add offset smoker fireboxes for true barbecue smoking, while others incorporate pellet grill technology. Consider how you’ll primarily cook:
- Gas + Charcoal: The most common configuration, offering daily convenience plus weekend charcoal sessions
- Gas + Charcoal + Offset Smoker: Ideal for those who want authentic smoking capability
- Pellet + Gas: Emerging category combining wood-fired flavor with gas convenience
Cooking Area (Square Inches)
Total cooking area determines how much food you can prepare at once. When evaluating combo grills, look at:
- Primary cooking grates: Main cooking surface measured in square inches
- Warming rack area: Secondary space for keeping food warm or indirect cooking
- Firebox grate: Additional cooking space in offset smoker models
For a family of four, aim for at least 500 square inches of primary cooking space. Large gatherings may require 800+ square inches across both cooking chambers.
BTU Ratings and Heat Output
BTU (British Thermal Units) indicate the heat output of gas burners. Higher isn’t always better – what matters is heat distribution and retention. Look for:
- 20,000-30,000 BTU: Adequate for most combo grills
- 30,000-40,000 BTU: Higher output for larger cooking surfaces
- Multiple burners: Allow for zone cooking and better temperature control
Build Quality and Materials
Durability matters for outdoor cooking equipment exposed to the elements. Premium combo grills feature:
- Stainless steel: Burners, lids, and hardware resist rust and corrosion
- Cast iron grates: Excellent heat retention and searing capability; require seasoning
- Porcelain-coated steel: Grates that offer easy cleaning with good heat distribution
- Heavy-gauge steel: Thicker firebox and body construction retain heat better
Additional Features
Modern combo grills include helpful features that enhance your cooking experience:
- Side burners: Prepare sauces, sides, or keep food warm
- Warming racks: Move finished food away from direct heat
- Wheels and casters: Easy mobility and positioning
- Tool hooks and shelves: Convenient storage and workspace
- Ash removal systems: Slide-out pans make charcoal cleanup simple
- Built-in thermometers: Monitor cooking chamber temperature
The Best Combo Grills for 2025
Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3-in-1 – Best 3-in-1 Versatile
The Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus represents the ultimate in combo grill versatility. This impressive unit combines a gas grill, charcoal grill, smoker, and flat-top griddle into one comprehensive cooking station. With 1,260 square inches of total cooking space and 30,000 BTUs of gas power, it handles everything from quick weeknight burgers to weekend smoking sessions.
What sets the Flex Fuel Plus apart is the included flat-top griddle insert. Simply remove the gas grill grates and drop in the pre-seasoned griddle for breakfast, stir-fry, or smash burgers. The charcoal side features an adjustable charcoal tray and dual dampers for precise temperature control, while the gas side offers three stainless steel burners with automatic ignition.
Highlights
- Gas and charcoal grill, smoker, and flat-top griddle in one unit
- 1,260 square inches of total cooking space
- Pre-seasoned flat-top griddle insert included
- Three stainless steel burners with 30,000 BTU output
- Automatic push-button ignition
- Adjustable charcoal tray for temperature management
Specifications
- Total BTU: 30,000
- Primary Cooking Area: 1,260 sq. in.
- Fuel Type: Gas + Charcoal
- Burners: 3 Stainless Steel
Customer Reviews
- “The griddle insert is a game-changer. I use it almost as much as the grill grates.”
- “Love having both gas and charcoal options. Perfect for any cooking situation.”
- “Great build quality for the price. Assembly took about two hours.”
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo – Best for Serious Smokers
For those who prioritize authentic smoking alongside grilling, the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo delivers the best of both worlds. This combination unit features a horizontal smoking chamber with offset firebox design that produces real smoke flavor using charcoal and hardwood. The attached 3-burner gas grill provides 36,000 BTUs for high-heat searing and everyday cooking.
The Canyon Combo’s offset smoker design allows for traditional stick-burning barbecue. Load the firebox with charcoal and hardwood splits, then let the indirect heat and smoke work their magic in the main cooking chamber. When you want to finish with a sear or just cook dinner quickly, the gas grill side is ready.
Recent updates to the Canyon Combo include pivoting cool-touch handles, rubber-treaded wagon wheels for better mobility, and an easy-access ash pan for simple cleanup. A charcoal basket and robust staging shelf round out the features.
Highlights
- Horizontal cooking chamber with authentic offset firebox smoking
- 3-burner gas grill delivers 36,000 BTU
- 750 sq. in. primary grates plus 281 sq. in. firebox grate
- Adjustable smokestack and dampers for temperature and smoke control
- Pivoting cool-touch handles on lid and firebox
- Rubber-treaded wagon wheels for easy mobility
Specifications
- Total BTU: 36,000 (gas side)
- Primary Cooking Area: 750 sq. in. + 281 sq. in. firebox
- Fuel Type: Gas + Charcoal + Offset Smoker
- Warranty: 2 Years
Customer Reviews
- “Finally, a combo that actually smokes like a real offset. The flavor is incredible.”
- “The reverse sear capability is perfect – smoke low then finish on the gas grill.”
- “Solid construction and the wagon wheels make it easy to move around.”
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX – Best Premium Option
The Canyon Combo DLX takes everything great about the standard Canyon Combo and adds premium upgrades for the serious outdoor cook. The most significant improvement is the massive 1,434 square inch total cooking space – enough to smoke three full pork shoulders simultaneously while still having room on the gas grill side.
A built-in fuel gauge eliminates the guesswork about your propane levels, so you’ll never run out of gas mid-cook. The upper warming rack provides additional space for indirect cooking or keeping finished food warm. Enhanced features include improved damper controls for even more precise temperature management.
If you frequently cook for large gatherings or want the maximum flexibility from your combo grill, the DLX delivers. The offset smoker maintains true barbecue tradition while the powerful gas grill handles high-heat searing and everyday cooking duties.
Highlights
- Massive 1,434 sq. in. total cooking space
- Built-in fuel gauge monitors propane levels
- Smoke up to 3 pork shoulders at once
- Upper warming rack for indirect cooking
- Enhanced damper and smokestack controls
- 2-year warranty on all parts
Specifications
- Total BTU: 36,000 (gas side)
- Total Cooking Area: 1,434 sq. in.
- Fuel Type: Gas + Charcoal + Offset Smoker
- Features: Fuel gauge, upper rack, enhanced controls
Customer Reviews
- “The extra cooking space is worth the upgrade. I can feed a crowd without any issues.”
- “Love the fuel gauge – such a simple addition but so useful.”
- “Premium build quality. This thing feels built to last for years.”
Royal Gourmet ZH3002N – Best Value
The Royal Gourmet ZH3002N proves you don’t need to spend a fortune for quality combo grill performance. This 2-burner gas and charcoal combo delivers 759 square inches of total cooking area with premium stainless steel construction throughout – lid, warming rack, control panel, and burners.
The side-by-side design positions the gas and charcoal chambers next to each other, making it easy to switch between cooking methods or use both simultaneously. Two stainless steel burners generate 20,000 BTUs with even heat distribution, while the charcoal side features a slide-out ash tray for easy cleanup.
Two side shelves with integrated hooks provide ample prep space and tool storage. Mobility is handled by two 6-inch wheels and two locking casters. For budget-conscious grillers who want genuine dual-fuel capability without compromise, the ZH3002N represents outstanding value.
Highlights
- 759 sq. in. total cooking area (592 grates + 167 warming rack)
- Stainless steel lid, warming rack, control panel, and burners
- 2-burner gas side with 20,000 BTU output
- Slide-out ash tray for easy charcoal cleanup
- Removable grease cup and tray on gas side
- Two side shelves with integrated tool hooks
Specifications
- Total BTU: 20,000
- Total Cooking Area: 759 sq. in.
- Fuel Type: Gas + Charcoal
- Configuration: Side-by-side
Customer Reviews
- “Excellent quality for the price. The stainless steel components are a nice touch.”
- “Easy assembly and both sides work great. Perfect size for our family.”
- “The ash tray makes cleanup so much easier than my old charcoal grill.”
Royal Gourmet ZH3005 – Best Budget with Side Burner
The Royal Gourmet ZH3005 packs impressive features into a budget-friendly package. What sets this combo grill apart is the included lidded side burner – perfect for preparing sauces, sides, or keeping food warm while you grill. Combined with 823 square inches of cooking space and porcelain-enameled cast iron grates, it delivers premium performance at an accessible price.
The dual-fuel design gives you the convenience of gas grilling alongside authentic charcoal flavor. On the charcoal side, adjustable air vents and a lid-mounted smoke stack provide excellent airflow control for consistent temperatures. The removable charcoal pan makes ash disposal quick and easy.
With 666 square inches of primary cooking area split evenly between gas and charcoal chambers plus a 157 square inch warming rack, there’s plenty of space for family cookouts. The right-side shelf provides prep space, and the lidded side burner doubles as additional workspace when not in use.
Highlights
- Lidded side burner for sauces and sides
- 823 sq. in. total grilling area
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates
- Adjustable side air vent for charcoal temperature control
- Lid-mounted smoke stack for improved airflow
- Removable charcoal pan for easy cleanup
Specifications
- Primary Cooking Area: 666 sq. in. (333 gas + 333 charcoal)
- Warming Rack: 157 sq. in.
- Fuel Type: Gas + Charcoal
- Features: Side burner, cast iron grates
Customer Reviews
- “The side burner is so convenient. I use it for everything from sauces to keeping sides warm.”
- “Cast iron grates give amazing sear marks. Great value for the features.”
- “Easy to switch between gas and charcoal depending on what I’m cooking.”
Maintenance and Care Tips
Proper maintenance extends the life of your combo grill and ensures optimal performance. Here’s how to keep your hybrid grill in top condition.
Cleaning the Gas Side
After each use, burn off residue by running the gas burners on high for 10-15 minutes with the lid closed. Once cool, brush the grates with a stiff grill brush. Periodically remove the grates and heat plates to inspect the burners for blockages. Clean any debris from burner ports using a wire brush or pipe cleaner. Empty the grease trap regularly to prevent flare-ups.
Managing Charcoal Ash
Never let ash accumulate excessively – it restricts airflow and affects temperature control. After each charcoal cook, allow ashes to cool completely (at least 24 hours), then remove via the ash pan or cleanout door. Dispose of ashes in a metal container, as embers can remain hot for hours. Keep dampers and vents clear of ash buildup for proper air circulation.
Protecting from the Elements
A quality grill cover is essential for combo grills left outdoors. Covers protect against rain, sun damage, and debris while keeping your grill ready to use. If possible, store your grill in a covered area like a patio or garage during extended periods of non-use. In humid climates, consider leaving the cover slightly vented to prevent moisture buildup.
Seasonal Deep Cleaning
At least twice per year, perform a thorough cleaning of all components. Remove and scrub grates, heat plates, and flavorizer bars. Inspect gas lines and connections for leaks using soapy water. Check propane tank condition and replace if showing rust or damage. Tighten any loose hardware and lubricate wheels and hinges if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can combo grills really perform well for both gas and charcoal cooking?
Yes, modern combo grills are designed with dedicated chambers for each fuel type. Each side operates independently with its own burners, grates, and temperature controls. Quality combo grills perform comparably to standalone gas or charcoal grills. The key is choosing a well-built model with adequate BTUs on the gas side and proper airflow control on the charcoal side.
When should I use the gas side vs the charcoal side?
Use the gas side when you need quick cooking with minimal prep time – perfect for weeknight dinners, hot dogs, or simple burgers. Choose the charcoal side when you have more time and want that authentic smoky flavor, especially for steaks, smoking, or weekend cookouts. Many grillers use both sides simultaneously for large gatherings.
How do I maintain consistent temperature on the charcoal side?
Temperature control on charcoal comes down to airflow management. Open vents and dampers to increase heat, close them to lower temperature. Start with a proper amount of lit charcoal using the minion method or chimney starter. Add charcoal gradually to maintain heat rather than dumping large amounts at once. Use a thermometer to monitor chamber temperature.
Are combo grills worth the investment compared to separate units?
For most backyard cooks, combo grills offer excellent value. You get multiple cooking methods in one footprint, saving both money and patio space. The trade-off is that combo grills may not match the absolute performance of dedicated high-end units in each category. However, for versatility and convenience, combo grills are hard to beat.
What’s the best fuel for smoking on a combo grill?
For authentic smoke flavor in an offset smoker combo, use lump charcoal as your heat source with hardwood chunks or splits for smoke. Popular smoking woods include hickory, oak, apple, cherry, and mesquite – each imparts different flavor profiles. Avoid lighter fluid, as it can leave residual taste. Consider a chimney starter for clean-burning charcoal ignition.
Conclusion
The best combo grill and smoker transforms your backyard into a complete outdoor cooking station. Whether you prioritize the 3-in-1 versatility of the Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus, the authentic smoking capability of the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo, or the outstanding value of the Royal Gourmet ZH3002N, there’s a hybrid grill to match your cooking style.
For serious barbecue enthusiasts who want it all, the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX delivers the largest cooking space and premium features. Budget-conscious grillers will appreciate the Royal Gourmet ZH3005 with its convenient side burner and cast iron grates.
No matter which combo grill you choose, you’ll enjoy the freedom to cook any way you want – quick gas grilling on busy nights, authentic charcoal flavor on weekends, or low-and-slow smoking for special occasions. The days of choosing between gas and charcoal are over.
Ready to upgrade your outdoor cooking game? Explore our top picks and find the perfect combo grill and smoker for your backyard.
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