Dual fuel BBQs blend the speed and consistency of gas grilling with the authentic taste and flexibility of charcoal. This guide highlights five top dual-fuel models to help American buyers choose the right setup for backyard gatherings, camping weekends, or patio parties. Whether you want quick weeknight meals or rich smoky flavor for weekends, these grills cover a range of cooking areas, burners, and features. Below, you’ll find practical comparisons, ideal user profiles, and a concise buying table to simplify your decision.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| ZH3005Y-SC Dual Fuel Grill | Awards-worthy backyard cook, family gatherings | Big 1020 sq. in. cooking area with offset smoker |
| Captiva Designs Dual Fuel Combo | Large groups, outdoor events | Independent gas and charcoal zones, porcelain-enameled grates |
| Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function | Budget-conscious cooks needing space | 870 sq. in. total, two main burners |
| Propane Gas Griddle & Charcoal Combo | Flat-top lovers plus charcoal flavor | Griddle surface plus dual zones, 327 sq. in. cooking area |
| Charcoal & Propane Combo with Side Burner | Versatile seasonal grilling | Dual-fuel with side burner and cast iron grates |
2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker
The Grills House Store dual-fuel model combines gas grilling convenience with a dedicated offset smoker for deep, smoky flavor. Best for cooks who want to switch between quick gas meals and longer, smoked dishes without swapping equipment. Its 1020 sq. in. total area supports up to 36 burgers at once, making it ideal for larger families or weekend poker nights.
Who it’s for: Perfect for the entertainer who values flavor and speed in one unit, and for someone who enjoys smoke infusion without a separate smoker. The attached offset smoker helps thread heat and smoke efficiently, while the side burner adds flexibility for sauces or sides.
Limitation: The full 1020 sq. in. layout is spacious but may require more space and careful placement in smaller patios. The smoker area, while convenient, can demand more charcoal attention than a dedicated smoker box.
Captiva Designs Propane Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo
This Captiva Designs unit blends independent control of gas and charcoal sections with a substantial 690 sq. in. cooking area. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates improve heat retention and durability, while a long 61-inch work surface supports meal prep for gatherings. It’s a strong pick for hosts who want flexible zoning and easy cleanup.
Who it’s for: Ideal for backyard parties where guests expect both quick grilled bites and smoky, slow-smoked dishes. The independently controllable zones let you manage different foods simultaneously with precision.
Caution: The expansive setup may require a larger cooking footprint and more careful maintenance of cast iron grates to prevent sticking over time.
Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill and Smoker
Char-Griller’s model blends gas and charcoal with a separate smoker function and 870 total cooking square inches. The two stainless steel main burners enable precise temperature control for rapid searing on one side while slower, deeper cooks finish on the other. This setup suits cooks who want straightforward dual-fuel operation with substantial cooking space.
Best for: Those who regularly host larger groups and need reliable heat zoning for different dishes at once. The dual burners simplify maintaining multiple temperatures during a busy cookout.
Limitation: With two burners and a mixed charcoal setup, climate and wind can influence performance; plan for proper shelter and wind breaks in open spaces.
Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo
This dual-fuel unit pairs a gas-fired griddle with a charcoal zone, offering 327 sq. in. of primary cooking space plus a generous 187 sq. in. griddle surface. A 12,000 BTU U-shaped burner powers the propane side. It’s well-suited for cooks who crave flat-top versatility—eggs, fajitas, or crispy toppings—alongside classic charcoal flavor for burgers and kebabs.
Who it’s for: Best for small to medium gatherings where quick, even heating and a flat top for side dishes or breakfast-style meals are valuable. The two side shelves provide handy prep and tool storage during a busy cookout.
Caution: The total area is substantial but not the largest among dual-fuel grills, so plan for efficient layout and food placement when cooking for many guests.
Charcoal & Propane Grill Combo With Side Burner
This dual-fuel grill blends charcoal and gas with a side burner and porcelain-enameled cast iron grate system. The combination supports instantly heated gas grilling and the deeper, smoky flavors from charcoal. Cast iron grates offer even heat retention, while the side burner enables sauces and sides to be prepared without leaving the grill area.
Who it’s for: Ideal for cooks who want to experiment with both faster weeknight meals and richer weekend dishes in one unit, without procuring extra equipment. The design encourages multi-dish workflows during events.
Limitation: The dual-zone complexity may require a learning curve for perfect temperature management across the charcoal and gas sections.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Cooking area and layout: Decide how much space you need and whether you prefer a large single zone or multiple separate zones. A bigger area supports more simultaneous dishes but requires more patio space.
- Fuel versatility: Consider how often you’ll use gas vs. charcoal. If you crave quick weeknight meals plus smoke flavor for weekends, a reliable dual-fuel setup is ideal.
- Temperature control: Look for grills with independently controlled zones and multiple burn options to customize heat for searing, slow-cooking, and smoking.
- Durability: Porcelain-enameled, cast iron, or stainless components resist rust and wear. Grates and heat shields influence longevity and heat distribution.
- Maintenance: Side drawers, ash management, and clean-out access affect ongoing upkeep. A design with easier ash and grease management saves time.
- Size and portability: For tight spaces, measure your outdoor area and consider whether a larger model is feasible. Some dual-fuel grills include spacious work surfaces that require a stable, level spot.
- Additional features: Side burners, warming racks, and integrated smokers add convenience and expand cooking options without extra gear.
FAQ
- What is a dual-fuel grill? A dual-fuel grill combines gas and charcoal grilling in one unit, letting you switch between speed and flavor without buying separate grills.
- Is dual-fuel better than single-fuel for flavor? Charcoal flavor is a key benefit of dual-fuel grills, but the best option depends on how you cook and how much time you want to invest in smoking.
- Do dual-fuel grills require more maintenance? They can require more maintenance due to both gas and charcoal components, especially ash removal and grate care.
- What should I look for in a dual-fuel grill for large gatherings? Prioritize total cooking space, independent temperature controls, durable grates, and ease of ash and grease management.
- Are dual-fuel grills portable? Some models are relatively compact, but many dual-fuel grills are designed for patios or backyards with fixed installations.
- Do these grills include smokers? Several models feature an offset smoker or dedicated smoking chamber as part of the dual-fuel system.