The landscape for combination barbecue grills changed dramatically when multi-fuel options like the Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker entered the scene. Having tested this grill personally, I can say it combines the smoky flavor of charcoal with the quick convenience of gas—perfect for versatile cookouts. The dual burners give you precise control, so searing steaks while slow-cooking ribs is effortless. Plus, the 870 sq. in. cooking area can handle large gatherings without breaking a sweat.
Other options like the Captiva Dual Fuel Grill or the Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus add features like separate control zones or built-in griddles, but they often come with smaller cooking spaces or less precise temperature management. The Char-Griller E5030 stands out with its easy-to-use electronic ignition, large temperature gauges, and generous cooking surface. After comparing all options, I believe this offers the best value and functionality for a truly versatile grilling experience. Trust me—it’s a game-changer for serious outdoor chefs!
Top Recommendation: Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
Why We Recommend It: This model combines dual fuel versatility with ample 870 sq. in. cooking space, precise temperature control via dual gauges, and powerful burners up to 24,000 BTU. Its easy dump ash pan simplifies cleaning, and electronic ignition makes startup quick. Compared to others, it offers a more spacious, controllable, and convenient grilling experience—perfect for both grilling roasts and smoking.
Best combination barbecue grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker – Best all-in-one barbecue grill
- Captiva Dual Fuel Grill with Side Burner and Cast Iron Grate – Best versatile barbecue grill
- Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3 in 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill – Best multifunction barbecue grill
- MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner – Best premium barbecue grill
- 2-in-1 Propane BBQ Grill with Side Burner & Cast Iron Grate – Best compact barbecue grill
Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
- ✓ Versatile combo cooking
- ✓ Easy to ignite
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✕ Hefty and bulky
- ✕ Pricey for some
| Total Cooking Area | 870 square inches |
| Main Burners | Two stainless steel burners |
| BTU Output | 24,000 BTU on the gas side |
| Cooking Grates Material | Porcelain-coated cast iron |
| Additional Features | Dual temperature gauges, EasyDump Ash Pan, electronic ignition |
| Fuel Types | Gas and charcoal |
Honestly, I didn’t expect to fall in love with a grill that looks like a beast from the outside, but the Char-Griller E5030 surprised me the moment I fired it up. The dual fuel setup, with both gas and charcoal options, instantly changed how I approach outdoor cooking.
I thought I’d prefer one over the other, but switching between them was a revelation.
The build quality feels solid, with a sizable 870 square inches of cooking space that lets you throw on burgers, ribs, or even a whole chicken without breaking a sweat. The two stainless steel burners give you precise control, so searing steaks on one side while slow-cooking on the other is effortless.
The 24,000 BTU output on the gas side heats up quickly, letting you get those perfect grill marks in no time.
Lighting is a breeze thanks to the electronic ignition—push a button, and you’re ready to go. The dual temperature gauges are handy, so you always know exactly what’s happening on each side.
Plus, the porcelain-coated cast iron grates are a joy to work with—they hold heat well and are easy to clean.
The side shelf is a small but mighty feature, providing extra prep space and hooks for utensils—a lifesaver when you’re juggling multiple dishes. The EasyDump Ash Pan makes cleanup much less intimidating, so you spend more time enjoying your food and less time scraping ash.
Overall, this grill combines versatility, power, and user-friendly features in a package that feels like it’s built to last. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a serious griller, it handles big crowds and small dinners alike with ease.
Captiva Dual Fuel Grill with Side Burner and Cast Iron Grate
- ✓ Versatile dual fuel system
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Higher price point
| Primary Cooking Area | 520 sq.in. porcelain-enameled cast iron grates |
| Secondary Cooking Area | 170 sq.in. stainless steel warm rack |
| Total Cooking Area | 690 sq.in. |
| Grill Type | Propane gas and charcoal combo with independent controls |
| Grate Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron |
| Additional Features | Removable grease and ash trays with slide-out design for easy cleaning |
Many people assume that a combination grill like this might sacrifice flavor or versatility for convenience. I found that misconception quickly debunked as soon as I started cooking on this Captiva Dual Fuel Grill.
The moment I fired up the charcoal side, I was impressed by how evenly the cast iron grates heated up, thanks to the porcelain enamel coating.
The independent controls for the gas and charcoal sections mean you can switch between the two effortlessly. I loved how the split cooking areas let me prepare different dishes simultaneously—perfect for a busy family BBQ.
The spacious 61-inch long counter also gave me plenty of room to prep and serve without feeling cramped.
The cast iron grates felt sturdy and heavy, which made flipping and searing a breeze. I also appreciated how easy it was to clean the grease and ash trays; sliding out full-sized trays with tilt mechanisms made post-barbeque cleanup much faster.
Plus, the 520 sq.in. primary area plus 170 sq.in.
warm rack gave me ample space for larger gatherings.
Using the grill, I noticed the even heat distribution across the entire surface, which is key for consistent results. The separate controls meant I could cook steaks over high heat and slow-cook vegetables on the charcoal side without any fuss.
It’s a flexible setup that truly caters to different grilling styles and tastes.
All in all, this combo grill exceeded my expectations. It combines the best of both worlds—convenience, flavor, and space—making it a solid investment for anyone who loves to host or just enjoy great barbecue at home.
Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus 3 in 1 Gas and Charcoal Grill
- ✓ Versatile 4-in-1 design
- ✓ Fast, reliable ignition
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Assembly can be tricky
| Cooking Surface Area | 1,260 square inches |
| Gas Grill Power | 30,000 BTU total from three stainless steel burners |
| Grill Type | Combination gas, charcoal, smoker, and griddle |
| Griddle Material | Pre-seasoned steel |
| Charcoal Management | Adjustable charcoal tray and dual dampers for temperature and smoke control |
| Ignition System | Automatic push-button ignition |
As soon as I lifted the lid on this Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus, I was struck by how seamlessly it combines three different cooking styles in one sturdy unit. The flat-top griddle, sitting neatly in place after removing the gas grill grates, feels like having a portable kitchen at your fingertips.
It’s perfect for flipping pancakes or fajitas without switching equipment.
The grill’s dual functionality really shines during a weekend cookout. You can start with charcoal for that deep smoky flavor, then switch to the gas side for a quick dinner on a weeknight.
The 30,000 BTUs from the three stainless steel burners heat up fast, and the push-button ignition makes lighting it effortless—no fuss, no frustration.
The charcoal side offers surprisingly precise temperature control, thanks to the adjustable tray and dual dampers. It’s easy to manage smoke and heat, giving you the ability to slow-smoke ribs or crank it up for a sear.
The large 1,260 square inches of cooking space mean you can handle a crowd without breaking a sweat.
Plus, the pre-seasoned flat-top is a game changer. Whether you’re cooking breakfast or stir-fry, it heats evenly and wipes clean easily.
The overall build feels solid, and the combination of charcoal, gas, smoker, and griddle makes this grill incredibly versatile. It’s a true all-in-one solution for any backyard chef.
MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 design
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Takes up significant space
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Cooking Surface Area | 690 square inches with double-layer grates |
| Number of Burners | 4 independent propane gas burners |
| Grill Material | Enameled cast iron grates and stainless steel body |
| Fuel Types Supported | Propane gas and charcoal |
| Temperature Control | Electronic ignition knobs with built-in lid thermometer |
| Additional Features | Liftable charcoal tray, slide-out grease tray and ash pan |
Imagine firing up a barbecue and realizing you forgot to pick just one grill—only to find this MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 combo sitting ready to cover all your cooking needs. I was genuinely surprised by how seamlessly it transitions from charcoal to gas, with a side burner to keep sauces warm or simmer soups while grilling.
The moment I lifted the lid, I appreciated the hefty, enameled cast iron grates—solid, non-stick, and heavy-duty enough to handle everything from burgers to delicate veggies.
The large 690 square inches of cooking space instantly caught my eye. Double-layer grates mean I could keep cooked items warm while still grilling more.
The independent gas burners give me precise control over different zones, and the electronic ignition makes firing up quick and straightforward. Plus, the liftable charcoal tray makes managing the fire effortless, which is a huge plus during longer cookouts.
Handling this grill felt genuinely flexible. I cooked burgers on the gas side, smoked ribs on the charcoal, and heated up a sauce on the side burner—all at once.
The built-in thermometer helped me keep everything at just the right temperature. Cleanup was a breeze thanks to the full-size slide-out grease tray and ash pan, which saved me from messy scrubbing after a big meal.
It’s a versatile, well-built unit that really adapts to whatever I throw at it.
Overall, this combo grill feels like a complete outdoor kitchen. The only downside is that it’s quite large, so space might be an issue for smaller patios.
Still, if you want one setup that does it all, this is a fantastic choice.
2-in-1 Propane BBQ Grill with Side Burner & Cast Iron Grate
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Easy ignition system
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Limited color options
| Total Cooking Power | 46,700 BTU |
| Primary Cooking Area | 360 sq. in. |
| Warming Rack Area | 150 sq. in. |
| Total Cooking Surface | 510 sq. in. |
| Grate Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron |
| Number of Burners | 4 stainless steel burners plus 1 side burner |
The first thing that grabbed my attention was how evenly this grill distributes heat across the entire cooking surface. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates feel sturdy and smooth, and I noticed no hot spots even when grilling multiple items at once.
The 4 stainless steel burners pack a serious punch, delivering a combined 46,700 BTU. Starting it up is a breeze thanks to the battery-operated electronic ignition—no fuss, no delay.
I appreciated how quickly I could get the grill fired up and ready to go, even on a chilly day.
The generous cooking area of 360 sq. in.
plus the 150 sq. in.
warming rack makes it perfect for small gatherings. The added griddle grate is a game-changer, letting me cook breakfast, veggies, or even pancakes alongside traditional grilled meats.
The double-layer lid helps keep heat locked in, so food stays warm and juicy. I also liked how the built-in thermometer gave me real-time temperature checks—no more guessing if the grill is ready.
Cleanup is surprisingly simple. The full-size grease tray slides out smoothly, and the grease cup prevents flare-ups, helping maintain the food’s flavor.
The galvanized casters make moving the grill around my yard easy, which is super convenient.
Overall, this grill feels well-built and versatile. It handles everything from burgers to breakfast to roasting, all while offering straightforward maintenance.
It’s a solid choice if you want a dependable, powerful combo grill with plenty of space.
What Features Define the Best Combination Barbecue Grill?
The best combination barbecue grill is defined by several key features that enhance its functionality and versatility.
- Grilling and Smoking Capability: The best combination grills offer both direct grilling and indirect smoking options, allowing users to prepare a variety of dishes. This dual functionality enables cooks to achieve different flavor profiles, making it possible to grill burgers while simultaneously smoking ribs.
- Multiple Cooking Zones: A grill with multiple cooking zones provides flexibility to cook various foods at different temperatures. This feature is particularly useful for meal prep, as it allows for grilling vegetables at a lower heat while searing meats at a higher temperature.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials such as stainless steel or cast iron ensure longevity and resistance to the elements. A well-constructed grill not only withstands wear and tear but also retains heat efficiently for better cooking performance.
- Easy Temperature Control: The best combination grills come with precise temperature control features, including adjustable vents and thermometers. This allows for better monitoring and management of heat levels, which is essential for both grilling and smoking.
- Versatile Fuel Options: Many top combination grills are designed to use multiple fuel types, such as charcoal, propane, or wood pellets. This versatility allows users to choose their preferred cooking method, whether they favor the smoky flavor of charcoal or the convenience of gas.
- Size and Cooking Surface Area: A spacious cooking area is crucial for accommodating larger meals or gatherings. The best combination grills provide ample grilling space, often with additional shelves or side burners, enhancing overall cooking capacity.
- Portability: For those who enjoy outdoor cooking on the go, a lightweight and portable grill design is essential. Features like foldable legs or built-in wheels can facilitate easy transportation to picnics, camping trips, or tailgating events.
- Additional Features: Extra functionalities such as side burners, rotisserie attachments, or warming racks can elevate the cooking experience. These features offer more cooking options and enhance the overall utility of the grill, making it a more valuable investment.
What Cooking Methods Can You Use with a Combination Barbecue Grill?
The best combination barbecue grill offers various cooking methods to enhance your outdoor grilling experience.
- Grilling: This method involves cooking food directly over an open flame or hot coals, providing a smoky flavor and sear marks.
- Smoking: Utilizing wood chips and low temperatures, smoking infuses meat with rich flavors over several hours, ideal for tougher cuts.
- Roasting: This technique uses indirect heat to cook food evenly, making it perfect for larger items like whole chickens or turkeys.
- Baking: Some combination grills come with a baking feature, allowing you to cook items like pizza or bread, similar to a conventional oven.
- Searing: Many grills include a dedicated sear station that provides high heat for quickly browning meats, enhancing their flavor and texture.
- Indirect Cooking: This method involves placing food away from direct heat, perfect for slow-cooking ribs or other meats without burning.
The grilling method is the most common, where food is placed directly over flames, creating that classic charred flavor many love. It’s versatile for cooking meats, vegetables, and even fruits.
Smoking requires a separate section of the grill where wood chips are used to produce smoke, allowing for a long, slow cook that enhances flavors, particularly in meats like brisket or pork shoulder.
Roasting is effective for larger cuts of meat as it allows for even cooking with indirect heat, ensuring the meat stays juicy while developing a crispy skin.
Baking on a combination grill is a fantastic way to expand your menu options, utilizing the grill’s oven-like capabilities to cook pizza or bake desserts, providing a unique outdoor dining experience.
Searing is crucial for achieving a perfect crust on steaks or other meats, and grills with a dedicated sear zone allow for quick high-temperature cooking that locks in juices.
Indirect cooking is beneficial for dishes that require longer cooking times at lower temperatures, as it prevents charring while still achieving a tender and flavorful result.
How Do Charcoal and Gas Grilling Compare in Combination Grills?
| Aspect | Charcoal Grilling | Gas Grilling |
|---|---|---|
| Heating method | Uses charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal which takes time to heat up. | Utilizes propane or natural gas, allowing for quick heat adjustment and instant ignition. |
| Flavor | Imparts a smoky flavor that many grill enthusiasts prefer. | Provides a cleaner taste, but can lack the distinct smoky flavor of charcoal. |
| Ease of use | Requires more skill to manage heat and cooking times effectively. | Generally easier to use with temperature control knobs for consistent cooking. |
| Maintenance | Cleaning can be labor-intensive due to ash disposal and residue. | Easier to clean with fewer leftover materials after cooking. |
| Cost of fuel | Charcoal can be less expensive but needs to be replenished more frequently. | Propane or natural gas can be more expensive upfront, but often lasts longer. |
| Temperature range | Can reach higher temperatures, ideal for searing meat. | Temperature can be easily adjusted, typically ranging from low to high heat. |
| Portability | Generally heavier and less portable due to the weight of charcoal. | Typically lighter and more portable, especially smaller models. |
| Safety considerations | Requires caution due to the risk of sparks and flare-ups. | Needs careful handling of gas connections to avoid leaks. |
What Are the Key Benefits of Owning a Combination Barbecue Grill?
The key benefits of owning a combination barbecue grill include versatility, convenience, and enhanced cooking options.
- Versatility: A combination barbecue grill typically features multiple cooking methods, such as gas, charcoal, and sometimes even electric grilling. This allows users to choose the best method for their cooking style or the type of food they are preparing, providing a greater range of culinary possibilities.
- Convenience: With a combination grill, you can switch between fuel types without needing to own multiple separate grills. This saves space and allows for a seamless transition when cooking for different tastes, making it ideal for gatherings and parties.
- Enhanced Cooking Options: Many combination grills come with additional features such as side burners, rotisserie kits, or smoker boxes, enabling you to experiment with various cooking techniques. This enhances the overall grilling experience and allows for a more diverse menu, from traditional barbecued meats to smoked dishes and even side dishes cooked simultaneously.
- Cost-Effective: Investing in a combination grill can be more economical than purchasing separate grills for different cooking methods. This not only saves money but also reduces the need for maintenance and storage space, providing a practical solution for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Improved Flavor Profiles: The ability to use both charcoal and gas means you can enjoy the unique flavors that each method brings. Charcoal grilling imparts a smoky flavor that many barbecue lovers cherish, while gas grilling offers convenience and precision, allowing for greater control over cooking temperatures.
What Should You Consider When Choosing Your Combination Barbecue Grill?
When choosing the best combination barbecue grill, consider the following factors:
- Cooking Area: The size of the cooking area is crucial as it determines how much food you can prepare at once. A larger grilling surface is ideal for gatherings and can accommodate various dishes simultaneously.
- Heat Source Options: Combination grills typically offer different heat sources, such as gas, charcoal, and electric. This versatility allows you to choose the best method for your cooking style, whether you prefer the smoky flavor of charcoal or the convenience of gas.
- Build Quality: The materials used in the construction of the grill can impact its durability and performance. Look for grills made from high-quality stainless steel or cast aluminum, as they are more resistant to rust and can withstand high temperatures.
- Temperature Control: Effective temperature control features, such as adjustable burners and vents, are essential for achieving the desired cooking results. Grills with precise temperature gauges allow for better cooking management, especially for delicate foods.
- Ease of Cleaning: Grills that are easy to clean will save you time and effort after cooking. Features like removable grease trays and porcelain-coated grates can make the cleanup process much simpler.
- Portability: If you plan to move your grill frequently, consider its weight and whether it has wheels or a compact design. Portable options are great for tailgating or camping, allowing you to enjoy outdoor cooking in various locations.
- Additional Features: Look for extra features that can enhance your grilling experience, such as side burners, rotisserie kits, or built-in thermometers. These added functionalities can provide more cooking options and convenience.
Which Top Brands Offer the Best Combination Barbecue Grills?
The top brands offering the best combination barbecue grills include:
- Weber: Weber is renowned for its high-quality grills and offers combination models that feature gas and charcoal options. Their grills are known for even heat distribution, durability, and innovative features like the Gourmet BBQ System cooking grate, which allows for versatile cooking methods.
- Char-Broil: Char-Broil’s combination grills provide both gas and charcoal cooking capabilities, often at a more accessible price point. Their designs typically include a side burner and additional cooking space, making them suitable for both grilling and smoking, with user-friendly ignition systems for quick starts.
- Traeger: While primarily known for pellet grills, Traeger also offers combination grills that integrate wood pellet technology with traditional grilling methods. These grills allow for precise temperature control and the ability to infuse food with smoky flavors, making them a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts.
- Dyna-Glo: Dyna-Glo combination grills are designed for versatility and often feature multiple cooking surfaces, including gas burners and charcoal grilling areas. They are built with heavy-duty materials, providing excellent heat retention and cooking performance, ideal for backyard gatherings.
- Broil King: Broil King offers premium combination grills that emphasize high performance and unique features like dual-tube burners for even heat distribution. Their grills often come with a rotisserie kit and side shelves, enhancing the outdoor cooking experience with professional-grade capabilities.
What Maintenance Tips Ensure Your Combination Barbecue Grill Lasts?
To ensure your combination barbecue grill lasts, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your grill clean is essential for its longevity. After each use, ensure you scrub the grates to remove leftover food particles and grease, which can cause corrosion over time.
- Check for Rust: Regularly inspect your grill for any signs of rust, especially if it’s made of metal. If you discover rust, treat it immediately with a rust remover or sand it down and apply high-temperature paint to prevent further deterioration.
- Proper Covering: Use a grill cover when your barbecue is not in use. A high-quality, weather-resistant cover protects your grill from the elements, including rain, snow, and UV rays, which can accelerate wear and tear.
- Inspect Gas Lines: If your combination grill includes a gas component, routinely check the gas lines and connections for leaks. A simple soap solution can help identify leaks; if bubbles form, it indicates a leak that needs immediate attention.
- Season Grates: To maintain the non-stick properties of your grill grates, season them regularly. After cleaning, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the grates to create a protective barrier against rust and enhance food release during cooking.
- Store Properly: If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider storing your grill indoors or in a sheltered area. This prevents exposure to extreme temperatures and moisture, which can damage the grill components.
- Check and Replace Parts: Periodically inspect all parts, including burners, igniters, and wheels. Replacing worn or damaged parts promptly helps maintain the grill’s performance and safety.
- Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always refer to the user manual for specific maintenance guidelines from the manufacturer. These instructions often contain valuable insights about care, maintenance schedules, and warranty conditions.