The Best of Both World: Charcoal & Gas Grills in One Place
Grilling enthusiasts no longer need to choose between the rich smoky flavor of charcoal or the convenience of gas. Dual fuel BBQ grills offer the best of both worlds, giving you versatility, control, and an exceptional cooking experience. If you’re looking for the perfect combination of flavor and convenience, our guide to charcoal and gas combo grills has everything you need. Get the smoky taste of charcoal with the fast, easy heat of gas – all in one grill. Whether you’re new to grilling or a seasoned pro, discover the perfect grill to elevate your outdoor cooking experience today.
What is a Dual Fuel BBQ Grill?
A dual fuel BBQ grill combines two heat sources: charcoal and gas. This hybrid design allows you to switch between or use both fuels simultaneously, depending on your cooking needs.
Whether you crave the deep, smoky taste from charcoal or the quick heat-up and precise temperature control of gas, these grills provide the flexibility to enjoy both methods.
How does it Work?
Dual fuel BBQ grills are equipped with separate cooking zones for charcoal and gas. The gas side typically features burners that ignite with the turn of a knob, offering instant heat. The charcoal section, on the other hand, requires manual setup with charcoal briquettes or lump wood, allowing you to enjoy the authentic smoky flavor.
Some models also allow for gas-assisted charcoal ignition, making it easier and quicker to start a charcoal fire without needing lighter fluid. The grill’s design ensures you can cook with one or both fuel sources simultaneously, making it ideal for different grilling styles and preferences.
Advantages of Dual Fuel BBQ Grills
Dual fuel BBQ grills offer a range of benefits that cater to different grilling styles and preferences. Combining the best features of charcoal and gas grilling, these hybrid models provide versatility, convenience, and enhanced control. Below are the key advantages of owning a dual fuel BBQ grill:
■ Versatility in Cooking
One of the biggest advantages of dual fuel grills is their unparalleled versatility. By having both gas and charcoal options in a single grill, you can easily switch between the two fuels depending on what you’re cooking or even use both simultaneously. Whether you’re slow-cooking meats over charcoal for that smoky flavor or quickly searing steaks on the gas side, you have complete control over your grilling method. This flexibility makes it ideal for cooking a variety of dishes—from burgers and steaks to more delicate items like fish or vegetables.
Benefit:
● You don’t have to choose between gas or charcoal; you get both in one grill.
● You can cook different types of food simultaneously at varying temperatures.
■ Convenience of Gas, Flavor of Charcoal
Dual fuel BBQ grills give you the convenience and speed of gas cooking while preserving the rich, smoky flavor that only charcoal grilling can provide. For busy weeknights or quick meals, the gas section heats up fast, allowing you to start cooking almost immediately. When you have more time and want to savor the authentic BBQ experience, the charcoal side comes into play, providing that deep, smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate with gas alone.
Benefit:
● Use gas for quick meals and charcoal when you want more flavor.
● Get the best of both worlds in a single grill without compromising on taste or convenience.
■ Precision Temperature Control
With dual fuel BBQ grills, you have greater control over the cooking temperature. The gas burners offer precise heat settings, allowing you to adjust the temperature instantly with the turn of a knob. This is perfect for grilling more delicate items like fish or vegetables that require a consistent heat source. On the charcoal side, you can control airflow and heat by adjusting the dampers and vents, allowing for more customized cooking experiences.
Benefit:
● Gas burners allow for precise, controlled heat.
● Charcoal vents and dampers give you flexibility to control heat intensity.
■ Perfect for All Skill Levels
Dual fuel BBQ grills cater to a wide range of skill levels, from beginners to experienced grill masters. For novices, the gas side provides a simple, straightforward grilling experience with easily adjustable temperatures. For more advanced grillers, the charcoal section offers the opportunity to experiment with low-and-slow cooking, smoking, and creating that coveted smoky BBQ flavor. Whether you’re just getting started or you’re a seasoned pro, dual fuel grills give you room to grow and master various grilling techniques.
Benefit:
● Ideal for beginners, with gas providing an easy, fast grilling option.
● Allows experienced grillers to experiment with advanced techniques using charcoal.
Main Types of Dual Fuel BBQ Grills
Dual fuel BBQ grills come in a variety of designs, each offering unique features that cater to different grilling preferences and needs. Whether you’re looking for convenience, portability, or a built-in outdoor solution, there’s a model to fit every situation. Below are the main types of dual fuel BBQ grills to consider when choosing the perfect one for your grilling adventures.
■ Standard Hybrid Grills
Standard dual fuel BBQ grills are often designed with separate compartments for gas and charcoal grilling, typically positioned side by side. This design allows you to grill using both fuels at the same time or switch between them depending on your cooking needs. The side-by-side layout gives you plenty of versatility, making it easy to multitask by cooking various dishes across different heat sources.
■ Gas-Assisted Charcoal Grills
One of the more innovative types of dual fuel grills is the gas-assisted charcoal grill. In these models, the gas burners are not used for cooking directly but instead are designed to ignite the charcoal quickly and efficiently. This feature eliminates the need for lighter fluid or chimney starters, making charcoal grilling more convenient without losing that signature smoky flavor. Once the charcoal is lit, you can turn off the gas and let the coals do the rest.
■ Portable Dual Fuel Grills
For grilling on the go, portable dual fuel BBQ grills are an excellent option. These grills are designed for easy transportation, making them perfect for camping, tailgating, picnics, and other outdoor adventures. Despite their compact size, many portable models still offer the flexibility of both charcoal and gas cooking. They typically feature a smaller grilling surface, but are built to provide enough power and flavor for cooking outdoors.
■ Built-In Dual Fuel Grills
Built-in dual fuel grills are designed for those who want a permanent, high-end grilling solution in their outdoor kitchens. These models are often larger, more powerful, and built with premium materials like stainless steel. With sleek designs and integrated controls, built-in grills seamlessly fit into custom outdoor cooking spaces, offering both gas and charcoal grilling options without sacrificing aesthetics. While more expensive, they provide the ultimate outdoor cooking experience for those serious about grilling.
■ Smoker Combo Grills
For those who want to take their BBQ game to the next level, smoker combo dual fuel grills are an excellent choice. These models feature dedicated smoking chambers in addition to the charcoal and gas sections, allowing you to slow-cook meats while simultaneously grilling other items. The combination of gas, charcoal, and smoking capabilities offers unmatched versatility for those who love experimenting with flavors and cooking techniques.
■ Gas-Assisted Charcoal Grills
One of the more innovative types of dual fuel grills is the gas-assisted charcoal grill. In these models, the gas burners are not used for cooking directly but instead are designed to ignite the charcoal quickly and efficiently. This feature eliminates the need for lighter fluid or chimney starters, making charcoal grilling more convenient without losing that signature smoky flavor. Once the charcoal is lit, you can turn off the gas and let the coals do the rest.
■ Portable Dual Fuel Grills
For grilling on the go, portable dual fuel BBQ grills are an excellent option. These grills are designed for easy transportation, making them perfect for camping, tailgating, picnics, and other outdoor adventures. Despite their compact size, many portable models still offer the flexibility of both charcoal and gas cooking. They typically feature a smaller grilling surface, but are built to provide enough power and flavor for cooking outdoors.
■ Built-In Dual Fuel Grills
Built-in dual fuel grills are designed for those who want a permanent, high-end grilling solution in their outdoor kitchens. These models are often larger, more powerful, and built with premium materials like stainless steel. With sleek designs and integrated controls, built-in grills seamlessly fit into custom outdoor cooking spaces, offering both gas and charcoal grilling options without sacrificing aesthetics. While more expensive, they provide the ultimate outdoor cooking experience for those serious about grilling.
■ Smoker Combo Grills
For those who want to take their BBQ game to the next level, smoker combo dual fuel grills are an excellent choice. These models feature dedicated smoking chambers in addition to the charcoal and gas sections, allowing you to slow-cook meats while simultaneously grilling other items. The combination of gas, charcoal, and smoking capabilities offers unmatched versatility for those who love experimenting with flavors and cooking techniques.
Top Dual Fuel Grills on the Market
When it comes to outdoor cooking, having the right grill can make all the difference. Dual fuel BBQ grills offer unmatched versatility by combining the traditional flavor of charcoal with the speed and convenience of gas.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned pitmaster, investing in a top-quality hybrid grill allows you to enjoy the best of both grilling methods. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best dual fuel BBQ grills on the market, offering superior performance, durability, and features to take your grilling game to the next level.
Char-Griller® Dual-Function 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill and Smoker (Model E5030)
Its a versatile outdoor cooking station that combines the convenience of propane gas grilling with the classic flavor of charcoal grilling and smoking. With 870 square inches of cooking space and a dual-burner gas side, this combination grill is perfect for grilling enthusiasts who want options.
Best For: Those who want the best of both worlds in one convenient unit. Its spacious design, dual fuel options, and smoker compatibility make it an excellent choice, providing versatility and performance for any outdoor cooking style.
■ 870 square inches of cooking space
■ Dual Cooking System
■ 24,000 BTUs Gas / Separate Charcoal Side
■ Adjustable Charcoal Tray
■ Electronic Ignition System
■ Porcelain-Coated Cast Iron Grates
■ Side Shelves for Prep Space
■ Ash Pan and Grease Management
■ Sturdy Steel Construction
Captiva Designs – Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner
Versatile dual-fuel grill that combines the convenience of propane gas grilling with the smoky flavor of charcoal grilling, plus the added functionality of a side burner. With a spacious 690 square inches of cooking area, durable porcelain-enameled cast iron grates, and a sturdy build.
Best For: Grillers who want the flexibility to cook with both gas and charcoal. Its combination of spacious cooking area, side burner, and dual-fuel options makes it perfect for backyard barbecues and outdoor cooking.
■ 690 square inches of cooking space
■ Dual-Fuel System
■ Additional Side Burner
■ Adjustable Charcoal Tray
■ Electronic Ignition System
■ Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grates
■ Side Shelves for Prep Space
■ Grease and Ash Management
■ Heavy-Duty Construction
Royal Gourmet – ZH3002N Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo, Silver & Black
Its a dual-fuel grill that combines the convenience of propane gas grilling with the rich, smoky flavor of charcoal grilling in one compact unit. With a total output of 20,000 BTUs on the gas side and ample cooking space, this combo grill is perfect for outdoor patio and backyard barbecues.
Best For: Grillers who want both gas and charcoal options. Its dual-fuel setup, combined with ample cooking space and practical features, makes it perfect for those who love outdoor cooking and appreciate the flexibility to switch between grilling styles.
■ 600 square inches of cooking space
■ Dual-Fuel System
■ 20,000 BTUs of Cooking Power
■ Adjustable Charcoal Pan
■ Porcelain-Coated Cooking Grates
■ Electronic Ignition System
■ Two Side Shelves for Prep Space
■ Grease and Ash Management
■ Stainless Steel and Black Finish
Pit Boss – PB1230SP Wood Pellet and Gas Stainless Steel Combo Grill, Black
Offers the ultimate versatility in outdoor cooking by combining wood pellet and propane gas grilling in one powerful unit. This dual-fuel grill allows you to enjoy the smoky, wood-fired flavor of pellet grilling while also offering the convenience and speed of propane gas grilling.
Best For: Grill enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds in one high-capacity unit. Its dual-fuel functionality, large cooking area, and advanced features make it perfect for anyone looking to explore multiple grilling techniques and flavors, whether smoking, searing, or baking.
■ 1251 square inches of cooking space
■ 849 sq. in. for pellet grilling
■ 412 sq. in. for gas grilling
■ Digital Control Board with LED Readout
■ Flame Broiler™ Lever
■ Side Shelf with Tool Hooks
■ Porcelain-Coated Cast Iron Grates
■ 21-pound hopper capacity
■ Heavy-Duty Construction
Zolyndo – Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner
Combines the flexibility of propane and charcoal cooking with a powerful 37,230 BTU output across three gas burners, a side burner, and a charcoal cooking area. Its porcelain-enameled cast iron grates ensure even heat distribution, while a double-sided iron plate allows for versatile cooking,
Best For: Grillers who want the flexibility of both gas and charcoal cooking in one unit. With a spacious cooking area, versatile side burner, and durable construction, it’s a perfect addition to outdoor kitchens or backyard barbecues, providing a wide range of grilling options and convenience.
■ 600 square inches of cooking space
■ Dual Fuel System
■ Three Burners at 9,560 BTU
■ One Side Burner at 8,550 BTU
■ Air Flow Control
■ Adjustable Charcoal Tray
■ Porcelain-Enameled Grates
■ Grease and Ash Management
■ Stainless Steel Construction
Brand-Man – Propane Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo, Model Hoss-Gas & Charcoal Grill
Its a dual-fuel BBQ grill that allows users to cook with either propane gas or charcoal in one convenient unit. Designed for outdoor kitchens and backyard gatherings, it features dual lids, providing separate cooking zones for each fuel type, two spacious side shelves for prep, and ample grilling space.
Best For: Outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want the flexibility to grill with both propane and charcoal in one unit. It’s ideal for backyard barbecues, outdoor kitchens, and gatherings where versatility is essential. With dual cooking zones, separate lids, and side shelves for food preparations.
■ 678 square inches of cooking space
■ 472 sq. in. for cast iron cooking area
■ 206 sq. in. for warming rack
■ 3 Main Burners 30,000 BTU
■ Dual Lids with Built-In Thermometers
■ Optimized Airflow
■ Porcelain-Enameled Grates
■ Side Shelves for Prep and Storage
■ Heavy-Duty Construction
Tips for Choosing the Right Dual Fuel Grill
With so many dual fuel BBQ grills on the market, finding the perfect one for your needs can feel overwhelming.
Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, it’s essential to consider key factors like size, features, and budget to ensure you make the right investment.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together some important tips to guide you in choosing the ideal dual fuel grill for your outdoor cooking experience.
Size and Cooking Area
Consider the size of the grill based on how many people you typically cook for. Larger grills provide more cooking space, which is ideal if you frequently host gatherings or cook multiple items at once. For smaller families or those with limited outdoor space, a more compact model may be sufficient.
Look at the total cooking surface, often measured in square inches, and make sure it has enough room for your grilling needs. Some models even come with additional warming racks or side burners for extra versatility.
Budget and Price
Dual fuel grills come in a wide range of prices, from affordable options to high-end models with premium features. Determine your budget before shopping and decide which features are most important to you.
If you’re a casual griller, you may not need all the bells and whistles of an expensive model. Remember, you don’t have to break the bank to get a quality grill, but it’s worth investing in a durable and reliable model that will last for years.
Build Quality and Durability
Since your grill will likely be exposed to outdoor elements, look for materials that ensure longevity and durability. Stainless steel is a popular choice due to its resistance to rust and corrosion. Heavy-duty cast iron or porcelain-coated cooking grates can also withstand high temperatures while providing excellent heat retention.
Make sure the construction is solid and sturdy, and avoid grills with thin metal parts that can warp or deteriorate over time. A well-constructed grill will not only last longer but will also provide more consistent cooking results.
Fuel Source Versatility
One of the main advantages of dual fuel grills is their ability to use both charcoal and gas. However, some models may favor one fuel type over the other, so it’s important to assess how easy it is to switch between the two.
Look for grills that offer gas-assisted charcoal ignition for added convenience, allowing you to quickly ignite charcoal without the need for lighter fluid or chimney starters. This feature makes it easy to enjoy the smoky flavor of charcoal without sacrificing time or effort.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
Grilling should be enjoyable, not stressful. Choose a grill with features that make it user-friendly and easy to operate. Look for models with adjustable dampers or vents for controlling airflow on the charcoal side, as well as easy-to-use knobs for regulating heat on the gas burners.
Additionally, pay attention to how easy the grill is to clean. Removable ash trays, grease collection systems, and easy-to-access cooking grates will make post-cook cleanup much simpler, saving you time and effort after your meal.
Portability or Built-In Options
Consider where you’ll be using the grill most. If you need a grill that’s portable, look for a model with wheels or a compact design that can easily be moved around or stored. These are ideal for tailgating, camping, or small patios.If you have a dedicated outdoor kitchen space, a built-in dual fuel grill might be the better option. These models are often larger, more powerful, and designed to remain in a fixed position, providing a high-end grilling experience for long-term outdoor use.
Cooking Features and Accessories
Some dual fuel grills come equipped with extra features that enhance your cooking experience. Features like side burners, searing zones, rotisserie kits, and smoker boxes offer more versatility for different cooking techniques.Temperature gauges, built-in thermometers, and heat control dials are also helpful in maintaining the perfect temperature for both gas and charcoal grilling. Consider models with split grates or warming racks for better multitasking during your cookouts.
Warranty and Customer Support
A reliable warranty can be a sign of a high-quality product. Look for manufacturers that offer solid warranties, especially on key components like the burners, grates, and overall structure of the grill.
Good customer support is also essential. Whether it’s troubleshooting, part replacements, or general maintenance advice, having a responsive customer service team can enhance your ownership experience and ensure your grill remains in top condition.
FAQs About Dual Fuel BBQ Grills
1. Can I use both charcoal and gas at the same time on a dual fuel grill?
Yes, most models allow for simultaneous use of both fuel types, letting you cook different items at varying temperatures.
2. Is it difficult to switch between gas and charcoal on these grills?
Not at all. Switching is usually as simple as lighting the gas burners or arranging the charcoal. Some grills even offer gas ignition for charcoal.
3. Do dual fuel grills require more maintenance?
They may require slightly more maintenance, as you’re dealing with both charcoal and gas systems. However, most models are designed for easy cleaning, with removable ash trays and grease management systems.
4. Are dual fuel grills more expensive than regular grills?
They are typically more expensive than single-fuel grills due to the added versatility and construction quality. However, the ability to switch between fuel types adds significant value.
5. Do I need any special skills to use a dual fuel grill?
Not really. These grills are designed for all skill levels, whether you prefer the simplicity of gas grilling or enjoy mastering the art of charcoal cooking.