5 Best Gas and Charcoal Combo Grills, According to Our Experts
Why choose between a gas and a charcoal grill when you can enjoy the best of both in one?
Expert consulted: Nicole PapantoniouKitchen Appliances Lab Director
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Gas and charcoal grills each offer distinct advantages: Charcoal grills deliver a rich, smoky flavor from the coals, while gas grills provide the convenience of quick and effortless ignition. However, not everyone has the space or budget for two grills. Gas and charcoal combo grills offer the best of both worlds, so instead of trying to decide which to buy, you can get two in one.
The grilling experts in the Kitchen Appliances Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute have tested over 90 outdoor grills since 2011, and we continually test new models each year. To find the best gas and charcoal grills on the market, we drew on our previous testing data of grills to help identify the top models from brands that have performed well for us in the past. We included picks that cater to several needs, including compact models, budget-friendly picks, and more. Below, you'll also find information on what to look for when shopping for a combo grill.
Pros
- Includes a smoker
- Large cooking area
- Cool-touch handles
Cons
- Some online reviewers noted that assembly was challenging
Oklahoma Joe's Canyon grill combines charcoal and gas grilling, as well as smoking, in one versatile appliance. The combo model features a three-burner gas grill, a barrel-style charcoal grill, and a smoker box positioned side-by-side in that order. In total, this grill has 1,031 square inches of cooking space.
“We tested the brand’s portable charcoal grill in our Lab, and it performed well due to its build and ease of use,” says Nicole Papantoniou, director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab. During testing, experts found that the oversized handles on the portable model stayed cool; we expect the Canyon model to be similarly intuitive to use.
While this grill doesn’t have an enclosed cabinet underneath for storage, it does have a shelf that can come in handy while grilling, a nice place to rest extra pans and platters until you’re ready to serve. Our analysts also liked the convenient location of the tank: “The gas tank is accessible from the front, which is a feature that scores high in our tests,” says Papantoniou. Some online reviewers found this model difficult to assemble, but it is available preassembled, which we recommend.
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| Dimensions | 50.8" x 68.9" x 35.6" |
| Cooking surface | 1031 sq. in. |
| Cooking grate material | Porcelain-coated cast iron |
| Weight | 184 lbs |
Pros
- Includes a side burner
- Large cooking area
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- No smoker
The Char-Griller has three stainless steel burners on the gas side, delivering an impressive total output of 40,800 BTUs. A fold-away side burner provides added versatility for keeping dishes warm or preparing sauces. On the charcoal side, the adjustable charcoal grate can be positioned closer or farther away from the food. "This function helps with temperature control by letting the user set it to low, medium, and high heat," says Papantoniou.
Including the warming racks, this grill boasts a total cooking area of 1,260 square inches. Our pros say this grill offers a better value than others on our list because it includes an additional cooking option, thanks to its side burners, which is a feature we don't see often. It's made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel for durability and longevity and includes porcelain grates for easy cleaning. Cooks will appreciate thoughtful features like a condiment and utensil rack, as well as a grate lifter for charcoal replenishment.
In our Lab tests, Char-Griller grills are consistently easy to assemble, and our experts appreciate the brand's ease-of-use features, such as oversized handles and easily accessible gas tanks. Many online customers gave this grill glowing reviews and recommended it for its price, versatility, and reasonable footprint. Char-Griller also offers the Texas Trio Gas and Charcoal Grill, which comes with a smoker as an optional add-on.
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| Dimensions | 49.2 x 30.5" x 66" |
| Cooking surface | 1,260 sq. in. |
| Cooking grate material | Porcelain-coated cast iron |
| Weight | 158 lbs |
Pros
- High-end showpiece that can be built-in
- Durable construction
- Wood chip cooking option
Cons
- Expensive
The Coyote Centaur Dual Fuel Grill offers a sleek design and premium construction so it's an ideal choice for those seeking a high-end built-in grill. Crafted from continuously welded stainless steel with seamless, polished edges, this grill exudes durability and elegance, making it a stunning centerpiece for any outdoor kitchen or grilling area.
It features two gas burners that generate 40,000 BTUs, an adjustable-height charcoal tray, and dampers for controlling airflow. "Dampers let you control the flame," says Papantoniou. "The more the damper is open, the more oxygen is let through and the higher the flame, and vice versa." The charcoal side also supports wood chip cooking.
The Centaur is designed to be integrated into your existing infrastructure, but you can also purchase a Coyote hybrid grill cart if you prefer a standard carted grill.
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Features at a Glance
| Dimensions | 23" x 50" x 26" |
| Cooking surface | 1,200 sq. in. |
| Cooking grate material | Stainless steel |
| Weight | 197 lbs |
Pros
- Large cooking surface area
- Includes a smoker
- Has a self-warmer
Cons
- Some experienced paint chipping on the exterior
Nexgrill, known for its array of grills, offers a three-in-one option that uses gas, charcoal, and smokes. The Oakford grill features 1,150 square inches of grilling space between the two gas and charcoal cooktops. When you include the warming racks, the total grilling space increases to 1,217 square inches.
The gas portion of the grill has three burners and 30,000 BTUs of cooking power, while the charcoal side has an adjustable chimney and damper to help regulate the temperature and smoke. The smoke box is located on the side of the grill, allowing you to easily infuse smoke flavors into your food by adding wood chips. The lid of the firebox also acts as a self-warmer, ideal for warming sauce or sides.
Although the grill is on the larger side, it features two wheels and two casters to enhance mobility. Some online reviewers reported experiencing paint chipping and peeling on the exterior of their model over time.
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| Dimensions | 50" x 75" x 24.8" |
| Cooking surface | 1,217 sq. in. |
| Cooking grate material | Porcelain-coated cast iron |
| Weight | 271 lbs |
Pros
- Large cabinet storage
- Sleek look
- Easy charcoal temperature control via a crank
Cons
- Poor assembly instructions
The Royal Gourmet ZH combo grill looks sleek and neat on the outside. It has enough space to keep everything tidy on the interior as well, with its spacious cabinet storage, allowing you to keep all your grilling tools and accessories in one place.
There are 296 square inches of grilling space on each side of the grill and 167 square inches of warming racks. The exterior crank on the charcoal side of the grill adjusts the height of the interior charcoal pan, aiding in temperature control. The gas side of the grill has two stainless burners with a total of 20,000 BTUs of power.
To collect the grease and ashes that develop from grilling, the grease tray funnels grease and juices into a cup, in addition to the ashtray, which collects ashes for easy cleanup. There are side tables located on both ends of the combo grill, along with hooks for hanging your grilling tools, such as brushes, spatulas, and tongs. When it comes to assembly, some online reviewers noted that the instructions for ZH Series grills were difficult to follow.
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| Dimensions | 64.2" x 64.2" x 45.3" |
| Cooking surface | 759 sq. in. |
| Cooking grate material | Porcelain-coated cast iron |
| Weight | 103.6 lbs |
How we choose the best gas and charcoal grills
Since 2011, the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have meticulously tested over 90 outdoor grills, including gas, charcoal, kamado, pellet, and portable models.
To select new grills to evaluate, we conduct thorough research across online platforms and popular retailers. We also closely monitor industry events, such as CES and the Builder's Show. Additionally, we maintain open communication with brands to stay informed about their latest models and innovations.
We compiled our list based on brands we have tested and trust, and features that stand out to us after being hands-on with so many over the years.
What to look for when buying a gas and charcoal grill
✔️ Type:
- Side-by-side grill: The most common type of gas and charcoal grill combo, the side-by-side grill has separate compartments for charcoal and gas grilling that function independently.
- Convertible gas and charcoal grills: These grills can switch between charcoal and gas grilling configurations via removable trays or burner systems that can be swapped out to accommodate either type of grilling.
Both of these styles can be found in the built-in grill category, which is designed to be installed into outdoor kitchen islands for a seamless, integrated look.
All types can have smoker options, whether as an offset attachment or the ability to simply add wood chips to the charcoal bed.
✔️ Materials: Opt for a grill constructed with durable materials such as heavy-duty stainless steel and porcelain-covered grill plates for durability and rust resistance.
✔️ Warranty: Reputable manufacturers stand behind their products with robust warranties. Look for a grill backed by a warranty of at least five years that covers essential components, such as gas burners and ignition systems, which are prone to early wear and tear.
✔️ Accessories: Enhancements like a one-touch ignition system, warming racks, side burners, fold-out side tables, and ample utensil storage can elevate your grilling experience.
✔️ Price: As much as possible, prioritize quality over affordability. Budget-friendly combo grills may compromise construction and longevity, leading to premature breakdowns and rusting. Invest in a high-quality grill that you can afford.
Is a gas and charcoal grill combo worth it?
While combo grills offer the allure of gas and charcoal grilling in one package, they come with trade-offs. To maximize your investment, make sure to regularly utilize both cooking methods and weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether this type of grill is right for you.
Pros:
- You'll get the speed of gas and the smoky taste of charcoal in one appliance.
- A combo grill is more economical than purchasing separate gas and charcoal grills.
- You'll conserve space on your porch or patio with one grill instead of two.
Cons:
- Like nearly any appliance that offers multi-mode cooking, combo grills perform averagely across both methods and excel at neither gas nor charcoal grilling.
- Combo grills are often larger and bulkier than a single grill of either type, which can potentially pose challenges in smaller outdoor spaces.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Perry Santanachote is a contributing writer for Good Housekeeping. She has been testing and writing about the best kitchen appliances and cookware for over a decade. She has years of experience in the food industry, working as a recipe developer, food stylist, and cook.
Nicole Papantoniou is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she oversees all kitchen appliance content and testing. This is her fifth season testing grills for Good Housekeeping, and she has had her hands on 40 grills and counting. She's a trained cook, recipe developer, and grilling aficionado.
Raena Loper is a contributing writer and analyst for Good Housekeeping. She has tested several categories including air fryers, smokers, and more. She conducted the most recent update on the best gas and charcoal grill combos.
Perry Santanachote (she/her) has more than 15 years of experience in service journalism, specializing in food and consumer goods. She tests and reports on kitchen appliances and cooking tools. She also evaluates food products and cleaning supplies. She’s an experienced writer, product tester and recipe developer who has worked in labs, test kitchens and media organizations, including Thrillist and Consumer Reports.
Raena Loper (she/her) is a fashion journalist and product analyst based in New Jersey whose work has appeared in Forbes, Good Housekeeping and O, The Oprah Magazine. Raena is a graduate from Montclair State University where she earned a degree in fashion studies as well as gender, sexuality and women's studies. In her free time, she enjoys sewing, cooking BBQ and spending time with family.
Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition. She has worked in test kitchens for small kitchen appliance brands and national magazines, including Family Circle and Ladies’ Home Journal.
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