Dual fuel grills blend propane speed with charcoal flavor, delivering versatile cooking for backyard gatherings. This guide highlights five top dual fuel grills and explains how to choose the right model for your space, cooking style, and entertaining plans. Each option below combines gas and charcoal zones, convenient side shelves, and practical features to improve grilling efficiency and flavor.
Summary of chosen products
| Product | Brand | Cooking Area | BTU / Power | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo | BESTFIRE | 327 sq in total (140 grill + 187 griddle) | 12,000 BTU | Two independent zones with dual fuel design |
| Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Propane & Charcoal Grill Combo | Royal Gourmet | Total 327 sq in primary | 20,000 BTU | Side shelves and mobility |
| Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal with Offset Smoker | Grills House | 1020 sq in total | 34,000 BTU | Attached offset smoker for smokey flavor |
| Captiva Designs Propane & Charcoal Grill Combo | Captiva Designs | 690 sq in total | Not specified for combo units | Porcelain-enamel cast iron grates |
| Propane & Charcoal Grill Combo With Cast Iron Grate & Plate | cookit | Large cooking area (undisclosed exact total) | Not specified | Easy-clean system and dual fuel efficiency |
Across these options, look for independent heat zones, ample prep space, and durable grates. The best dual fuel grills balance fast gas heat with controlled charcoal flavor, while offering ease of use for weeknight cooks and weekend gatherings alike.
BESTFIRE Dual Fuel Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo
The BESTFIRE dual fuel system combines a propane gas burner with a charcoal surface, offering independent control for each zone. A U-shaped stainless steel burner delivers 12,000 BTU, enabling quick searing on one side while charcoal completes the flavor profile on the other. The cooking area totals 327 square inches, including a 140 square inch cooking grid and a 187 square inch cast-iron griddle. This setup supports cooking up to about 20 burgers at once, ideal for small to medium gatherings. Two side shelves and dual hooks provide practical prep and tool storage, while a condiment shelf helps organize sauces and oils during service.
Pros: Flexible cooking zones, sizable total area, strong flavor potential with charcoal. Cons: Charcoal management can require more attention than pure gas grills, and mobility is moderate due to size.
Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Dual Fuel Grill
The Royal Gourmet ZH3002N pairs a two-burner gas grill with a charcoal section in a side-by-side layout. It emphasizes convenience with two side shelves to store tools, plates, and seasonings. The design includes two wheels and two casters, so you can relocate the grill to varying outdoor spaces as needed. This model is well-suited for hosts who want both rapid gas grilling and the rich flavors of charcoal, without sacrificing mobility or storage during gatherings.
Pros: Clear separation of gas and charcoal zones, portable with wheels, ample prep space. Cons: Some users may prefer a larger total cooking area for very large crowds.
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal With Offset Smoker
This dual fuel grill by Grills House adds an offset smoker and a side burner to the mix, supplementing the primary gas and charcoal zones with distinct flavor pathways. A total cooking area of 1020 square inches accommodates sizeable gatherings, with 666 square inches dedicated to primary cooking (333 for gas, 333 for charcoal), plus a 157 square inch warming rack and a 197 square inch offset smoker. The offset smoker provides a dedicated space for smoked meats, while the side door simplifies adding charcoal or removing ashes—streamlining maintenance during long grilling sessions.
Pros: Versatile flavor profiles, dedicated smoker, large capacity. Cons: Offset smoker adds complexity and requires space for best use.
Captiva Designs Propane & Charcoal Grill Combo
Captiva Designs offers a propane gas grill and charcoal grill combo with a side burner and porcelain-enamel cast iron grates. The cooking counter spans 61 inches, providing generous space to prepare meals while grilling. Independent control of gas and charcoal zones lets you tailor heat levels for each food type, from searing steaks to slow-smoked ribs. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates improve heat retention and durability, even under high use, while the stainless steel burners and enamel components enhance longevity.
Pros: Large counter space, durable grates, flexible heat management. Cons: Some assembly and setup may be time consuming; exact BTU values are not specified for comparison.
Cookit Dual Fuel Grill With Cast Iron Grate & Plate
The Cookit dual-fuel grill emphasizes ease of cleaning with an integrated cleaning system and stainless steel lids. It combines a gas side for fast heating with a charcoal chamber for robust smoky flavor. The cast iron grates and plate offer excellent heat retention, aiding sear quality and even cooking across a large surface. A side burner adds versatility for simmering sauces or keeping sides warm. This model suits cooks who prioritize straightforward maintenance and reliable performance in mixed-cooking scenarios.
Pros: Easy-clean system, robust cast iron components, side burner for sauces. Cons: Availability and exact BTU figures vary by unit; some users may desire more precise zone control.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations For Dual Fuel Grills
- Cooking zones and layout: Look for clearly separated gas and charcoal areas or a combined setup with independent controls. Side-by-side or split configurations affect how you manage heat while cooking different items.
- Total cooking area: Consider how many people you typically serve. Larger gatherings benefit from primary cooking space plus warming racks and any secondary surfaces like griddles or side burners.
- Flavor vs. speed: Gas heats quickly for weeknights, while charcoal imparts smoky flavors. Decide if you want simultaneous operation or sequential use for best results.
- Mobility and installation: Wheels and casters simplify relocation. If you have a fixed patio, weight may be less of a concern; for frequent moves, lighter units with locking wheels help.
- Durability and materials: Porcelain-enameled cast iron, stainless steel burners, and robust grates resist rust and provide long heat retention. Enamel coatings reduce sticking and cleaning effort.
- Maintenance needs: Consider ash management, grease traps, and ease of cleaning between sessions. Some models feature integrated cleaning systems for faster maintenance.
- Accessories and prep space: Side shelves, hooks, condiment shelves, and a warming rack improve workflow during busy cookouts. Extra counter space supports prep work and plating.
- Budget and availability: Dual fuel grills vary in price based on features and capacity. Check warranty terms and customer support for ongoing maintenance needs.
- Future expansion: If you plan to host larger events, assess whether upgrading to a larger main grill or adding a separate smoker is feasible with the chosen model.
In choosing a dual fuel grill, consider your preferred balance of convenience, flavor, and capacity. The right model blends fast heat with rich charcoal flavor, offers ample workspace, and provides reliable durability for years of outdoor cooking.