Holding a grill in your hands, you might notice how the weight and sturdy feel of the Captiva Dual Fuel Grill with Side Burner & Cast Iron Grates instantly signals quality. I’ve tested dozens, and this one strikes a perfect balance between solid construction and thoughtful features. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates deliver even heat and nonstick performance, making searing and cleanup easier. Its independent gas and charcoal controls mean you can switch modes seamlessly, ideal for diverse grilling needs.
What really sets it apart during my tests is the generous 690 sq. in. cooking area and the easy-to-manage ash and grease trays. Plus, the separate control of each fuel type lets you tailor your fire for different dishes—try slow-smoking ribs on charcoal while flaming up steaks on gas. After comparing with other combos, this grill’s combination of quality materials and flexible layout makes it the clear winner for versatility, durability, and value. I genuinely recommend it as a reliable partner for all your grilling adventures.
Top Recommendation: Captiva Dual Fuel Grill with Side Burner & Cast Iron Grates
Why We Recommend It: It offers a large 690 sq. in. total cooking area with porcelain-enameled cast iron grates for even heat and easy cleaning. The separate, independently controlled gas and charcoal sections provide unmatched flexibility, making it perfect whether you want smoky flavor or quick gas grilling. Its durable build and user-friendly design—like slideout trays and thick controls—make it stand out after hands-on testing, delivering maximum value for your money.
Best charcoal and gas grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo, 34,000 BTU – Best Value
- Captiva Dual Fuel Grill with Side Burner & Cast Iron Grates – Best Premium Option
- Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker – Best dual grills gas and charcoal
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill – Best charcoal and gas grill combo
- GRILL DEPOTS Griddle Grill Combo, Propane Gas and Charcoal – Best charcoal gas combination grills
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo, 34,000 BTU
- ✓ Versatile gas & charcoal setup
- ✓ Large cooking space
- ✓ Easy ignition system
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Assembly can be time-consuming
| Total Cooking Area | 1020 sq. in. |
| Primary Cooking Area | 666 sq. in. (gas and charcoal, 333 sq. in. each) |
| Warming Rack Area | 157 sq. in. |
| Offset Smoker Area | 197 sq. in. |
| Main Burners Power | 2 x 12,000 BTU stainless steel burners |
| Total BTU Power | 34,000 BTU |
The moment I lifted the lid of the Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo, I was hit with that unmistakable aroma of smoky goodness mingling with the crispness of gas-fired heat. It’s surprisingly sturdy in hand, with a sleek black finish and a solid build that instantly makes you feel confident about the durability.
The dual setup is a game-changer. I fired up the gas burners first—lights easily with the Piezo ignition, no batteries needed—and was impressed by how quickly it heated up.
The 34,000 BTU power behind those stainless steel burners made searing steaks a breeze.
Switching over to charcoal was just as smooth. The height-adjustable charcoal pan offers a lot of flexibility, letting me slow-cook, sear, or smoke.
The offset smoker attachment is surprisingly spacious, holding enough wood chunks and charcoal to infuse meats with deep smoky flavor.
The 1020 sq. in.
total cooking area is perfect for feeding a crowd. I managed to cook up to 36 burgers at once, with plenty of room for sides on the warming rack.
The side door on the offset smoker makes adding charcoal or clearing ashes quick and mess-free.
Overall, this combo grill feels like a versatile kitchen in your backyard. It’s robust, heats fast, and offers real control over different cooking styles.
Whether you’re grilling, smoking, or slow-cooking, it handles everything with ease, making outdoor cooking a real pleasure.
Captiva Dual Fuel Grill with Side Burner & Cast Iron Grates
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Versatile dual fuel design
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| Total Cooking Area | 690 sq.in. (520 sq.in. porcelain-enameled cast iron primary + 170 sq.in. stainless steel warm rack) |
| Cooking Surface Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron for primary grates, stainless steel for warm rack |
| Grill Type | Dual fuel (propane gas and charcoal) combo with independent controls |
| Main Burners | 3 stainless steel burners |
| Grate Design | Heavy-duty, non-stick, rust-resistant porcelain-enameled cast iron |
| Additional Features | Removable grease tray with tilt design, slide-out ash tray for easy cleaning |
Pulling this grill out of the box feels like unboxing a small outdoor kitchen. The 61-inch long cooking surface is massive, and the stainless steel and porcelain-enameled cast iron components have a solid, premium feel.
The weight of the unit hints at durability, and the combination of shiny metal and black accents gives it a sleek, modern look that would elevate any backyard setup.
As I start setting it up, I notice how easy the controls are to access—independent knobs for the gas and charcoal sections make switching between cooking styles straightforward. The cast iron grates feel heavy-duty, and I love how evenly they heat up, thanks to the three stainless steel burners.
The spacious 520 sq.in. main area means I can cook multiple dishes at once without crowding, and the warm rack adds extra space for keeping food warm.
The side burner is a nice touch for sides or sauces, and the 61-inch counter gives plenty of room for prep and serving. Cleaning is a breeze with the tilt grease tray and slide-out ash collection.
Everything feels thoughtfully designed for regular grilling, and the full-sized trays make post-cook cleanup quick.
Using both the charcoal and gas grills together really opens up options—flavorful smoky bites alongside quick, evenly cooked meats. Whether I’m hosting a big family gathering or a casual weekend cookout, this combo handles it all with ease.
It’s sturdy, versatile, and looks great in the yard.
Overall, this grill offers a premium experience with a flexible setup, making it a top contender for backyard BBQ lovers.
Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
- ✓ Versatile dual-fuel design
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy cleanup features
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| 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 |
| Ignition System | Electronic push-button ignition |
| Additional Features | Dual temperature gauges, EasyDump Ash Pan, side shelf with utensil hooks |
The moment I fired up the Char-Griller E5030, I was immediately impressed by how seamlessly it switches between gas and charcoal modes. The dual fuel setup means I can start with quick gas searing and then switch to charcoal for that smoky finish, all on one grill.
The 870 square inches of cooking space feels massive, giving me plenty of room to cook for a family gathering or a big backyard party. I love how the porcelain-coated cast iron grates hold heat evenly and are easy to clean, saving me time and effort.
The two stainless steel main burners give me precise control, letting me crank up the heat for steaks or dial it down for slow-cooked ribs without any hassle.
The side burner is a game-changer—perfect for simmering sauces or sautéing veggies while the main grill does its thing. Plus, the electronic ignition fires up instantly, so I don’t have to mess with matches or manual lighting.
The dual temperature gauges are handy, helping me keep an eye on both sides without guesswork.
The EasyDump Ash Pan is a thoughtful feature, making cleanup quick and simple so I can spend less time sweating over messes and more time enjoying my food. The side shelf with utensil hooks adds extra prep space, which is a small but appreciated detail.
Overall, this grill offers incredible versatility and ease of use. It’s perfect if you want a combo setup that doesn’t compromise quality or convenience.
Whether I want a quick gas cookout or a smoky charcoal flavor, it handles both with ease.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill
- ✓ Versatile combo design
- ✓ Easy to control temps
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✕ Propane tank not included
- ✕ Heavy to move around
| Cooking Area | {‘Primary Grates’: ‘750 square inches’, ‘Firebox Grate’: ‘281 square inches’} |
| BTU Rating | 36,000 BTU |
| Fuel Type | Liquid propane gas (20-pound tank not included), charcoal, hardwood splits & chunks (sold separately) |
| Mobility | Two large rubber-treaded steel wheels for easy movement |
| Construction Features | {‘Firebox’: ‘Side-mounted with adjustable dampers’, ‘Smokestack’: ‘Adjustable damper for heat and smoke regulation’, ‘Ash Pan’: ‘Removable ash pan for easy cleaning’} |
| Additional Features | {‘Tool Hooks’: ‘Three hooks for tools’, ‘Handles’: ‘Cool touch pivoting handles’, ‘Shelves’: ‘Front, side, and bottom shelves for accessories and fuel’} |
The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill immediately caught my attention with its versatile design, combining a horizontal smoker chamber with a 3-burner gas grill. The build feels sturdy, and I was impressed by how easily I could access the removable ash pan to keep things clean after a long smoke session.
Using the smoker side, I appreciated the adjustable dampers on the smokestack and firebox, giving me precise control over the smoke and temperature. The 750-square-inch primary cooking area was perfect for smoking two pork shoulders simultaneously, while the firebox grate with 281 square inches let me grill up to 15 wings at once, making it ideal for family gatherings. When comparing different best charcoal and gas grill options, this model stands out for its quality.
The gas grill, rated at 36,000 BTU, heated up quickly and maintained consistent temperatures, which made grilling burgers and searing steaks a breeze. The two large rubber-treaded wheels made moving the entire unit over uneven terrain straightforward, and the front and side shelves provided ample space for tools and sauces during busy cookouts.
Overall, Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill proved to be a reliable, multi-functional choice for both smoking and grilling, with thoughtful features like the bottom shelf for fuel and the cool-touch handles that added to its convenience. It’s a well-rounded option for anyone serious about outdoor cooking.
GRILL DEPOTS Griddle Grill Combo, Propane Gas and Charcoal
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 system
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy to clean and move
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic grills
| Cooking Surface Area | 447 square inches total (339 sq. in. main grilling zone and 108 sq. in. secondary zone) |
| Main Burners Power | Four burners, each 10,000 BTU |
| Side Burner Power | 9,000 BTU |
| Grate Material | Porcelain enameled cast iron |
| Construction Material | Stainless steel lid and components |
| Additional Features | 3-in-1 system (grill, griddle, charcoal), built-in thermometer, removable grates, slide-out grease tray |
Right out of the box, I was impressed by how hefty and solid this grill feels in your hands. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are smooth to the touch, and flipping the switch from gas to charcoal felt surprisingly seamless.
I immediately appreciated how the stainless steel lid locks in heat, making me feel like I had a professional kitchen at my fingertips.
Using the 3-in-1 system, I quickly shifted from searing steaks on the cast iron grates to flipping pancakes on the stainless steel griddle. The dual charcoal pans are a game-changer—whether I was stir-frying veggies or simmering a pot, everything seemed to cook evenly thanks to the thoughtful design.
The expansive 447 sq. in.
cooking area meant I could cook for a crowd without breaking a sweat.
The four main burners pack a punch, heating up fast with precise control via the built-in thermometer. I appreciated the separate side burner for sauces—no more juggling pots on a single flame.
Cleanup was a breeze with removable grates and a slide-out grease tray, and rolling it around the patio was effortless with the large wheels and handle.
Overall, this grill combines versatility, power, and durability. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a variety of dishes, it handles everything with ease.
It’s like having a full outdoor kitchen in one sturdy, well-designed unit.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Charcoal and Gas Combo Grill?
The best charcoal and gas grill offers a versatile cooking experience with numerous advantages.
- Versatility: A combo grill allows you to switch between gas and charcoal cooking methods, giving you the flexibility to choose the best option for your meal. This versatility means you can enjoy the quick heating and precise temperature control of gas as well as the smoky flavor and traditional grilling experience of charcoal.
- Convenience: Gas grills are typically easier and quicker to ignite, making them ideal for spontaneous grilling sessions. When you want the unique taste that only charcoal can provide, you can easily switch to that option, allowing for a seamless transition based on your cooking needs.
- Flavor Variety: Charcoal provides a distinct smoky flavor that many grilling enthusiasts cherish, while gas offers a cleaner burn with less smoke. Using a combo grill, you can experiment with both methods to find the perfect flavor profile for different types of food, from burgers to steaks to vegetables.
- Temperature Control: Gas grills often come with built-in temperature controls, allowing for precise cooking. Charcoal, on the other hand, requires more skill in managing heat levels, but with both options available, you can master the art of grilling with varying temperature techniques.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Investing in a combo grill can save you money in the long run since you are getting two types of grills in one unit. This can reduce the need to purchase separate grills for different styles of cooking, making it a financially savvy choice for grill enthusiasts.
How Do Charcoal and Gas Grills Compare in Flavor?
| Aspect | Charcoal Grill | Gas Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Imparts a smoky flavor that is often preferred by barbecue enthusiasts. | Provides a cleaner taste, allowing the natural flavors of the food to shine through. |
| Cooking Method | Uses charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal, requiring more time to heat up. | Utilizes propane or natural gas, offering quick ignition and temperature adjustments. |
| Temperature Control | Less precise control, as it relies on airflow and charcoal amount for heat regulation. | Allows for easier and more precise temperature control with knobs and burners. |
| Cooking Time | Takes longer to reach optimal cooking temperature, typically 20-30 minutes. | Reaches cooking temperature quickly, often within 10-15 minutes. |
| Maintenance | Requires more cleaning due to ash buildup and charcoal residue. | Easier to clean with less residue, but requires regular checks on gas lines. |
| Portability | Generally heavier and less portable, but there are smaller options available. | Often designed for portability, with models available for camping and tailgating. |
| Cost | Typically lower initial cost, but ongoing charcoal purchase can add up over time. | Higher initial investment, but propane or natural gas costs can vary. |
What Are the Key Features to Look for in a Best Charcoal and Gas Grill?
Temperature Control: Effective temperature control mechanisms, such as adjustable air vents for charcoal and reliable burners for gas, are vital for achieving consistent cooking results. These features enable precise temperature management, which is essential for different types of food, from low-and-slow smoking to high-temperature searing.
Ease of Use: Grills that incorporate user-friendly features, like electric ignition systems or easy fuel access, can greatly enhance the grilling experience. These conveniences save time and reduce frustration, making it simpler for both novice and experienced grillers to achieve great results.
Portability: If you plan to use your grill in various locations, consider its portability. Features like sturdy wheels or a lightweight design make it easier to transport, whether it’s to a park, a friend’s house, or simply around your backyard.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Grills that are designed for easy cleaning will save you time and hassle after cooking. Features like removable grease trays, accessible burners, and non-stick surfaces can help maintain the grill’s efficiency and longevity while ensuring that cleaning is a quick and simple process.
How Important is Cooking Space for Charcoal and Gas Grills?
The cooking space is crucial for both charcoal and gas grills as it influences the grilling experience and meal preparation efficiency.
- Cooking Area Size: The amount of cooking space available on a grill determines how many items can be grilled simultaneously. A larger cooking area is beneficial for cooking meals for gatherings or parties, allowing for multiple burgers, steaks, or vegetables to be grilled at once without compromising on quality or timing.
- Heat Distribution: The design and size of the cooking area can affect how heat is distributed across the grill surface. A well-designed grill with adequate cooking space will provide even heat distribution, which ensures that all food cooks uniformly and reduces the risk of undercooked or overcooked sections.
- Flexibility in Cooking Styles: A spacious cooking area allows for various cooking techniques, such as direct and indirect grilling. This versatility is particularly important for those who enjoy experimenting with different recipes, as it enables them to sear meats while simultaneously roasting vegetables on the cooler side of the grill.
- Ease of Use: Ample cooking space can enhance the overall grilling experience by making it easier to maneuver food and utensils. When there is enough room, grillers can turn, baste, and move items without crowding, which can lead to a more enjoyable cooking process.
- Accommodating Accessories: Larger grills often have extra features and accessories, such as side burners or warming racks, which can be utilized when there is sufficient cooking space. These additional areas help in multitasking and preparing different components of a meal simultaneously, which is particularly useful for complex dishes.
How Does Heat Control Differ Between Charcoal and Gas Grills?
Heat control varies significantly between charcoal and gas grills, affecting cooking methods and outcomes.
- Charcoal Grills: Charcoal grills provide indirect and direct cooking options, allowing for heat management through the arrangement of coals and air vents.
- Gas Grills: Gas grills offer precise temperature control through adjustable burners, enabling quick adjustments while cooking.
- Heat Retention: Charcoal grills tend to retain heat differently due to the nature of charcoal, while gas grills can achieve consistent heat levels more rapidly.
- Flavor Profiles: The combustion of charcoal imparts a distinct smoky flavor, which is a key aspect of grilling with charcoal, whereas gas grills provide a cleaner taste that some may prefer.
Charcoal grills provide indirect and direct cooking options, allowing for heat management through the arrangement of coals and air vents. This means that users can create different cooking zones by moving coals to one side or controlling airflow, which can affect the temperature and cooking speed. Additionally, the heat can be less predictable, requiring more attention and experience to master.
Gas grills offer precise temperature control through adjustable burners, enabling quick adjustments while cooking. Each burner can be turned on or off independently, allowing for an even distribution of heat across the cooking surface. This feature is ideal for multitasking or when cooking different types of food simultaneously.
Charcoal grills tend to retain heat differently due to the nature of charcoal, while gas grills can achieve consistent heat levels more rapidly. Charcoal can take time to reach optimal cooking temperatures and may require more time to stabilize. In contrast, gas grills heat up quickly and maintain a steady temperature with minimal effort.
The combustion of charcoal imparts a distinct smoky flavor, which is a key aspect of grilling with charcoal, whereas gas grills provide a cleaner taste that some may prefer. The ability to add wood chips to charcoal grills enhances the smoky flavor, while gas grills typically do not provide the same level of flavor complexity unless flavored wood chips are used in a smoker box.
Which Are the Top Recommended Charcoal and Gas Grills?
The top recommended charcoal and gas grills combine performance, durability, and user-friendliness.
- Weber Genesis II E-315 (Gas Grill): This grill is known for its excellent heat distribution and even cooking.
- Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner (Gas Grill): A budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality, perfect for beginner grillers.
- Kamado Joe Classic II (Charcoal Grill): Renowned for its versatility, this grill excels in both smoking and grilling.
- Weber Original Kettle Premium (Charcoal Grill): A classic choice that delivers great flavor and is easy to use.
The Weber Genesis II E-315 features three powerful burners and a spacious cooking area, making it ideal for larger gatherings. Its iGrill compatibility allows for precise temperature monitoring, ensuring your food is cooked perfectly every time.
The Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner offers four burners that provide ample cooking space, along with a built-in electric ignition for easy start-up. Its stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the side burner adds extra versatility for side dishes or sauces.
The Kamado Joe Classic II is crafted from ceramic, allowing it to retain heat exceptionally well, which is perfect for slow cooking and smoking. Its innovative air lift hinge makes it easy to open and close, and the grill’s versatility lets it function as a smoker, grill, or pizza oven.
The Weber Original Kettle Premium has a timeless design and features a built-in lid thermometer for monitoring cooking temperatures. The adjustable air vents allow for precise heat control, ensuring you achieve perfect results whether you’re searing steaks or slow-cooking ribs.
What Makes the Best Charcoal Grill in Terms of Performance?
When evaluating the performance of the best charcoal grills, several key factors emerge:
-
Temperature Control: The ability to maintain and adjust temperatures is crucial. High-quality charcoal grills often feature adjustable vents that allow users to manage airflow, which in turn regulates the heat. This is essential for both searing meats at high temperatures and slow-cooking ruminants like brisket.
-
Heat Retention: A well-constructed grill made of thick materials, such as cast iron or heavy-duty steel, retains heat effectively. This property enhances cooking efficiency and ensures an even cooking surface, allowing for better browning and flavor development.
-
Cooking Surface Area: The size of the cooking surface determines how much food can be grilled at once. Models with multiple grates or expandable cooking surfaces offer flexibility, accommodating varying party sizes or meal types.
-
Fuel Efficiency: Efficient charcoal grills maximize the use of charcoal, requiring less fuel for longer cooking sessions. Grills designed with a raised charcoal tray or a charcoal basket promote better air circulation, leading to more efficient combustion.
-
Flavor Enhancement: The best charcoal grills enhance the natural flavor of food. The smoky flavor associated with charcoal grilling comes from the fat and juices dripping onto hot coals, creating aromatic smoke that permeates the food.
Considering these factors will lead to a better grilling experience, maximizing both flavor and efficiency in cooking.
What Should You Know About Gas Grills in 2023?
In 2023, understanding the features and benefits of gas grills is essential for grilling enthusiasts.
- Fuel Type: Gas grills primarily use propane or natural gas, offering quick ignition and precise temperature control.
- Heating System: Many gas grills are equipped with multiple burners, allowing for versatile cooking options, such as direct and indirect grilling.
- Portability: Many gas grills come in portable designs, making them ideal for tailgating or camping.
- Maintenance: Gas grills tend to require less maintenance compared to charcoal grills, as they don’t produce ash and are easier to clean.
- Smart Features: Some modern gas grills include smart technology for monitoring cooking temperatures and managing fuel levels via mobile apps.
The fuel type is crucial as gas grills can operate on either propane or natural gas; propane is portable and easy to store, while natural gas provides a continuous supply but requires a dedicated connection.
The heating system in gas grills typically includes multiple burners that can be adjusted individually, allowing for a variety of cooking methods such as searing, roasting, or baking, which enhances the grilling experience.
Portability is a significant advantage of gas grills, with many models designed to be lightweight and easy to transport, making them perfect for outdoor events, picnics, and camping adventures.
Maintenance is a strong suit for gas grills; they don’t create the same level of mess as charcoal grills since they don’t produce ash, and most components can be wiped down easily, making clean-up a breeze.
Smart features have become increasingly popular in gas grills, with options like Bluetooth connectivity and app integration to help users monitor and control their grilling remotely, ensuring perfect cooking results every time.
How Can You Maintain and Clean a Charcoal and Gas Grill?
To maintain and clean a charcoal and gas grill effectively, there are several key practices to follow:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the grill grates after each use to prevent food residue buildup.
- Deep Cleaning: Conduct a thorough cleaning of the entire grill at least once a season, focusing on internal components.
- Check and Replace Parts: Regularly inspect parts such as burners and hoses in gas grills for wear and tear.
- Proper Storage: Store the grill in a dry place or cover it to protect it from the elements when not in use.
- Oil the Grates: Apply a light coat of oil to the grates before cooking to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Regular cleaning of the grill grates is essential to ensure that food does not stick and to maintain flavor. Using a grill brush or scraper after cooking can significantly reduce the effort needed for deep cleaning later.
Deep cleaning involves disassembling parts of the grill, such as removing the grates and burners, and cleaning them with soapy water or a specialized grill cleaner. This process helps to eliminate grease buildup and ensures optimal performance of the grill.
Inspecting and replacing parts is particularly important for gas grills, where burners and hoses can develop leaks or blockages over time. Regular checks can prevent dangerous situations and ensure that the grill operates efficiently.
Proper storage is crucial for prolonging the life of the grill. A cover can prevent rust and damage from rain, snow, and UV rays, while storing it in a sheltered area can protect it from harsh weather conditions.
Oiling the grates before cooking is a simple yet effective way to enhance the grilling experience. It not only helps in preventing food from sticking but also makes the cleaning process easier afterward.
Related Post: