The moment you have to choose between the deep, smoky kiss of charcoal and the instant, controllable flame of gas, you realize you need both. A combo grill isn’t a compromise; it’s a declaration that you refuse to be limited by a single fuel source. You want the freedom to sear a steak over gas on a Tuesday night and then spend a Sunday slow-smoking a pork shoulder over hardwood lump charcoal — using the same piece of equipment.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind AirfryerBite. I’ve spent years dissecting the hardware of outdoor cooking, analyzing everything from BTU ratings and porcelain-enameled cast iron thickness to damper designs and grease management systems, to help you make the right call on a purchase you will use for the better part of a decade.
After sifting through dozens of models and cross-referencing real-world thermal performance against build quality, I’ve assembled the definitive list of the best combo grill options that actually deliver on the promise of true dual-fuel versatility without cutting corners.
How To Choose The Best Combo Grill
Selecting a combo grill is more nuanced than picking a standard single-fuel model. The value of a dual-fuel unit is directly proportional to how each fuel source is managed, the build quality of the shared structure, and the total cooking area available for each zone. The wrong choice means you end up with a grill that does neither fuel type well.
Fuel Configuration: Side-by-Side vs. Gravity-Fed
The most common configuration is a true side-by-side design with an independent gas section and an independent charcoal section, each with its own lid and temperature gauge. This gives you total flexibility to run both zones simultaneously at different temperatures. The alternative is a gravity-fed system like the Masterbuilt Gravity Series, which uses a vertical hopper to feed charcoal into a firebox. This setup offers the thermal flavor of charcoal with the convenience of digital temperature control, but it doesn’t let you switch to gas at the flip of a knob. Your choice depends on whether you want simultaneous dual-fuel cooking or a more refined single-fuel experience.
Total Cooking Area and Grate Material
Look for the combined square inches of primary cooking surface, but pay more attention to the material. Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates offer the best balance of heat retention, non-stick performance, and rust resistance. Heavy-gauge steel is adequate but prone to corrosion over time. Ensure the charcoal section is large enough for a full brisket or a rack of ribs without needing to curl the meat into the gas side.
BTU Output and Temperature Control
For the gas side, a total output of 30,000 to 45,000 BTUs from stainless steel burners is sufficient for searing and everyday grilling. More important is the control: look for individual burner controls that allow you to create temperature zones. On the charcoal side, an adjustable charcoal pan or a gravity-fed hopper gives you the ability to manage heat output, which is essential for both high-heat searing and low-and-slow smoking.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 | Digital Charcoal | Digital charcoal precision | 1,050 sq. in. cooking area | Amazon |
| Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo | Gas & Charcoal | Offset smoking & grilling | 1,031 sq. in. total cooking | Amazon |
| MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 | Gas & Charcoal | Side-by-side versatility | 37,000 BTU, 690 sq. in. | Amazon |
| GREEN PARTY 3-Burner | Gas & Charcoal | Even heat distribution | 37,000 BTU, 685 sq. in. | Amazon |
| Captiva Designs Dual Fuel | Gas & Charcoal | Porcelain grates quality | 520 sq. in. primary grates | Amazon |
| Grills House ZH3005Y-SC | Gas & Charcoal | Built-in offset smoker | 1,020 sq. in. total area | Amazon |
| Grills House ZH3005-SC | Gas & Charcoal | Compact dual-fuel layout | 34,000 BTU total power | Amazon |
| SKOK 4-Burner 3-in-1 | Gas & Charcoal | Griddle & grill combo | 45,000 BTU total output | Amazon |
| Royal Gourmet CC2036F | Charcoal Smoker | Large event charcoal smoking | 1,200 sq. in. total area | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 redefines what a charcoal grill can do. Its gravity-fed vertical hopper holds up to 16 pounds of briquettes, feeding them into a firebox where a digital fan precisely maintains the temperature you set on the control panel. You can dial in 225°F for a smoke ring or crank it to 700°F for a steak sear. The integrated app lets you monitor probes and adjust the temperature from your phone, bridging the gap between authentic wood-fired flavor and modern convenience.
With 1,050 square inches of total cooking space across four levels, including reversible cast iron grates, this unit handles a full packer brisket on the main rack while chicken thighs roast on the warming shelf. The build quality is solid, with a stainless steel front shelf and a porcelain-coated exterior that resists the elements. It is a single-fuel system, but the control you get over charcoal is unprecedented.
This grill is for the user who wants the flavor profile of charcoal without the babysitting. The learning curve is minimal; you set a temperature and let the gravity feed do the work. It is a premium investment that pays off in consistent results every cook.
Why it’s great
- Reaches 225°F in under 8 minutes and searing temp in 15 minutes
- Reversible cast iron grates offer flat side for griddle-like cooking
- App connectivity for hands-off monitoring and control
Good to know
- Requires precise assembly; take your time with bolt alignment
- Gravity hopper demands lump charcoal or briquettes of consistent size
2. Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo
Oklahoma Joe’s brings serious pitmaster credentials to this combo, which pairs a 36,000 BTU three-burner propane gas side with a dedicated charcoal offset smoker. The gas section reaches cooking temperature quickly and maintains even heat across porcelain-coated cast iron grates, while the offset smoker, with its adjustable firebox and smokestack dampers, gives you low-and-slow capability. The firebox grate itself adds 281 square inches of direct grilling space.
The total cooking area of 1,031 square inches is generous enough for two pork shoulders on the smoker side while the gas side handles burgers and hot dogs simultaneously. Dual lid-mounted temperature gauges let you monitor both chambers without lifting the lids. The heavy-gauge steel construction and high-temp finish are built to withstand seasons of outdoor use, and the removable ash pan on the firebox simplifies cleanup.
This model is ideal for the user who wants true offset smoking alongside the convenience of gas. The offset design requires more skill to manage the fire and smoke flow than a gravity-fed unit, but the reward is authentic competition-level barbecue flavor. It is a serious piece of gear for the dedicated outdoor cook.
Why it’s great
- Dedicated offset smoker with adjustable dampers for smoke control
- Porcelain-coated cast iron grates resist rust and hold heat
- Generous 750 sq. in. primary cooking area across both fuel sources
Good to know
- Offset smoker requires active fire management to maintain temperature
- Assembly is involved; you will need a helper for the main body
3. MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 Gas and Charcoal Combo
MFSTUDIO delivers a compelling value proposition with a true side-by-side gas and charcoal configuration that includes a dedicated side burner. The three stainless steel burners on the gas side output a combined 37,000 BTUs, while the charcoal section operates independently with its own adjustable enameled tray. The porcelain-enameled cast iron primary grates provide 520 square inches of cooking surface, with an additional 170 square inches of warming rack.
The dual-layered hoods on each section include stainless steel thermometers for accurate temperature monitoring. On the gas side, stainless steel flame tamers distribute heat evenly to prevent hot spots. The grease management system on the gas side and the ash drawer on the charcoal side make post-cook cleanup straightforward. The integrated tool hooks keep spatulas and tongs within reach.
This grill strikes an excellent balance between price and performance for the mid-range buyer. The inclusion of a side burner adds real utility for preparing sauces or sides while the main cooking surface is occupied. It is a practical, well-built solution for anyone wanting the flexibility of both fuel types without stepping into three-figure premium territory.
Why it’s great
- True side-by-side independent gas and charcoal zones
- Dual-layered hoods reduce heat loss when opening a single side
- Side burner adds functional cooking space for sides or sauces
Good to know
- Cast iron grates require seasoning to maintain non-stick properties
- Wheels are adequate but not heavy-duty for rough terrain
4. GREEN PARTY 3-Burner Combo Grill
The GREEN PARTY combo grill emphasizes temperature control with a height-adjustable charcoal pan on the charcoal side that lets you dial in the distance between coals and food, while the gas section offers three independent burners plus a side burner for a total output of 37,000 BTUs. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates across 685 square inches provide reliable heat retention and even cooking.
The air flow system includes lid-mounted dampers and an invisible front air vent that promote efficient oxygen circulation without requiring you to open the lid, which minimizes heat loss. The grease management system funnels drippings into a removable tray, and the ash collection drawer simplifies cleanup after charcoal cooks. The alloy steel frame is sturdy and stable on its casters.
This model is well-suited for the budget-conscious cook who still wants genuine dual-fuel capability. The independent charcoal pan height control is a feature typically found on more premium units, giving you real control over searing intensity. It is a functional, sensible choice that delivers the core promise of a combo grill without extra frills.
Why it’s great
- Height-adjustable charcoal pan for precise heat zone control
- Lid-mounted dampers enhance air flow without heat loss
- Dual fuel sections with independent lid thermometers
Good to know
- Assembly instructions could be more detailed
- Side burner has lower BTU output than main burners
5. Captiva Designs Dual Fuel Combo
Captiva Designs offers a 690-square-inch dual-fuel grill that prioritizes the quality of its cooking surface. The primary grates are porcelain-enameled cast iron, combining the heat retention of traditional cast iron with a non-stick, rust-resistant finish that requires less maintenance than bare cast iron. The three stainless steel burners on the gas side work with the enameled charcoal tray to distribute heat evenly across the grilling surface.
The 61-inch-long cooking counter provides ample space for prepping ingredients and staging food. The grease tray on the gas section is designed with a tilt to funnel drippings toward the hanging grease box, while the charcoal side features a full-size slide-out ash tray. The alloy steel frame is coated with a lacquered finish for weather resistance, and the unit rolls on four casters for easy repositioning.
This is a strong mid-range option for those who consider the cooking grate the most important component of a grill. The porcelain-enameled cast iron delivers a searing performance that rivals bare cast iron while being significantly easier to clean and maintain. It is a practical, user-friendly grill that balances capacity with component quality.
Why it’s great
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates resist rust and provide even heat
- Tilted grease tray directs drippings efficiently
- Full-size slide-out ash tray for quick charcoal cleanup
Good to know
- Heating power is 11 kilowatts, which is adequate but not extraordinary
- Side shelf is functional but not heavily built
6. Grills House ZH3005Y-SC with Offset Smoker
The Grills House ZH3005Y-SC expands on the standard dual-fuel formula by adding a dedicated offset smoker to the mix, bringing the total cooking area to 1,020 square inches. The primary cooking area is evenly split between 333 square inches of gas grilling space and 333 square inches of charcoal grilling space, with an additional 157-square-inch warming rack and a 197-square-inch offset smoker compartment. This layout lets you smoke meat on the offset side while using the main charcoal section for direct heat and the gas side for quick cooking.
The two stainless steel main burners on the gas side deliver 12,000 BTU each, with a 10,000 BTU side burner for sauces or sides, for a total of 34,000 BTU. The charcoal side features a three-level adjustable charcoal pan for heat regulation, while the offset smoker uses a side door for easy fuel loading. The piezo ignition system fires up without needing a battery or lighter.
This grill is designed for the cook who wants to entertain large groups and experiment with multiple cooking styles simultaneously. The offset smoker adds genuine smoking capability that most combo grills lack, giving you the ability to produce bark on a brisket while grilling chicken on the gas side. It is a value-packed option for the serious outdoor culinary enthusiast.
Why it’s great
- Dedicated offset smoker with side door for charcoal management
- Three-level adjustable charcoal pan for versatile heat control
- Piezo ignition eliminates the need for batteries or lighters
Good to know
- Total 87-pound weight makes it a permanent patio fixture
- Warming rack area is relatively small compared to main cooking space
7. Grills House ZH3005-SC Dual Fuel
The Grills House ZH3005-SC is the more streamlined sibling of the ZH3005Y, offering a dual-fuel layout with a side burner but without the offset smoker. The total cooking area of 823 square inches is divided into 333 square inches on the gas side, 333 square inches on the charcoal side, and a 157-square-inch warming rack. This configuration is ideal for users who want the flexibility of gas and charcoal but prefer a simpler footprint than a three-chamber system.
The two stainless steel main burners on the gas side produce 12,000 BTU each, and the side burner adds another 10,000 BTU, for a total of 34,000 BTU. The charcoal section includes a height-adjustable charcoal pan, a smoke stack, and a side air vent for managing temperature and draft. Dual lid-mounted thermometers on each side provide independent temperature monitoring.
This grill fits well on a standard patio or deck where space is at a premium but the demand for versatility is high. The side burner is useful for simmering sauces or heating sides while the main cooking surfaces are occupied. It is a practical, no-nonsense option that delivers the core dual-fuel experience with solid component quality.
Why it’s great
- Compact footprint with 823 sq. in. total cooking area
- Side burner adds utility without demanding extra space
- Height-adjustable charcoal pan for professional heat control
Good to know
- Gas burners at 12,000 BTU each are adequate but not high-output
- One-year warranty is limited compared to some competitors
8. SKOK 4-Burner 3-in-1 Combo
The SKOK 4-Burner 3-in-1 Combo takes the hybrid concept further by integrating a charcoal mode, a gas mode, and a flat griddle cooking surface into a single unit. With four independently controlled stainless steel tube burners generating a total of 45,000 BTUs, this grill gives you flexible heat zoning. The griddle area measures 184.51 square inches for teppanyaki-style cooking, while the grilling area offers 146.48 square inches for traditional barbecue.
The heavy-duty cast iron griddle and grill grates provide excellent heat retention. A free enameled cooking grate and charcoal box expand your options, letting you choose between cast iron or a non-stick surface depending on the dish. The dual-lid design helps retain heat when cooking on a single side, and the 2-in-1 oil and ash drip tray channels grease into a cup while collecting ash for mess-free disposal.
This is the right choice for the cook who craves variety above all else. The griddle surface opens up breakfast foods, stir-fry, and smash burgers, while the gas and charcoal modes cover every other outdoor cooking need. The 45,000 BTU output is the highest in this lineup, making it a capable performer for high-heat searing.
Why it’s great
- True 3-in-1 design with charcoal, gas, and flat griddle modes
- Highest BTU output in the lineup at 45,000 BTU total
- Dual-lid design improves heat retention for each cooking zone
Good to know
- Individual cooking zones are smaller than true side-by-side units
- Cast iron griddle requires seasoning and careful maintenance
9. Royal Gourmet CC2036F Barrel Grill & Smoker
The Royal Gourmet CC2036F is a barrel-style charcoal grill with a dedicated offset smoker, offering a massive 1,200 square inches of total cooking space. This includes 668 square inches of primary cooking grates, a 260-square-inch warming rack, and a 272-square-inch offset smoker compartment. All grates are made of heavy-gauge porcelain-enameled steel wire, designed to withstand frequent high-heat use without warping.
The three-level height-adjustable charcoal pan holds up to 7.7 pounds of coal, giving you control over heat intensity by adjusting the pan’s distance from the food. The offset smoker is firmly attached to the main body for good heat and smoke circulation, and the side charcoal door makes it easy to add fuel without lifting the main grates. The removable grease drip cup and charcoal pan simplify cleanup after large gatherings.
This grill is purpose-built for feeding crowds at events, family reunions, or weekend barbecues. It is a charcoal-only system, but the offset smoker adds genuine smoking capability that justifies its place on this list for those who prioritize event-scale cooking capacity over gas convenience. The build is utilitarian but effective, with a focus on function over aesthetics.
Why it’s great
- Enormous 1,200 sq. in. total cooking area for large events
- Three-level adjustable charcoal pan for heat control
- Offset smoker provides genuine low-and-slow smoking space
Good to know
- No gas section; it is a charcoal-only system with an offset smoker
- Weighs 87.5 pounds; plan a permanent placement
FAQ
Can I use both the gas and charcoal sides of a combo grill at the same time?
Is a gravity-fed charcoal grill as good as a traditional offset smoker for brisket?
How do I prevent rust on the cast iron grates of a combo grill?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the best combo grill winner is the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 because it delivers authentic charcoal flavor with the precision of digital temperature control, eliminating the babysitting often associated with charcoal. If you want a true side-by-side gas and charcoal experience with an offset smoker for low-and-slow competition-level barbecue, grab the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo. And for a multi-surface powerhouse that adds a griddle to the mix, nothing beats the SKOK 4-Burner 3-in-1.