Balancing quick weeknight dinners with low-and-slow weekend barbecue often leaves outdoor cooks stuck between propane convenience and charcoal flavor. Juggling separate cookers clutters the patio, which makes an all-in-one outdoor setup a practical move. Many backyard cooks explore char griller duo grill options to enjoy rapid gas heat alongside genuine wood-charcoal flavor. Choosing the best combination grill and smoker gives you multi-fuel versatility without demanding extra patio real estate. Based on our detailed comparison of cooking area, heat controls, fuel systems, and user feedback, these combination units offer dependable performance for any gathering.
Managing heat zones shouldn’t feel like a guessing game when you’re searing steaks or slow-roasting pork ribs. Units with porcelain-enameled cooking grates, adjustable dampers, and independent burner controls help maintain stable cooking conditions. While dual-fuel designs require routine attention to ash and grease, the cooking flexibility easily justifies the upkeep. A reliable best combination grill and smoker delivers the primary cooking space and temperature stability needed for effortless family cookouts.
Pros
- Dual-chamber setup lets cooks run distinct smoking and high-heat grilling tasks simultaneously
- High-grade stainless steel construction offers rugged durability for outdoor patio setups
- Broad advertised temperature span of 180°F to 700°F handles both gentle smoking and searing
- Wi-Fi connectivity and PID algorithm make managing cooking temperatures straightforward and convenient
Cons
- Premium investment level may exceed the needs of casual or budget-conscious weekend grillers
- Large dual-chamber footprint requires dedicated patio space and proximity to a standard electrical outlet
- Substantial overall weight makes it permanent patio equipment rather than a portable smoker for travel
The recteq DualFire 1200 is an electric wood pellet smoker grill engineered specifically for outdoor cooks who refuse to compromise between smoking and direct grilling. Traditional pellet cookers often force backyard pitmasters to choose between gentle, low-temperature smoke circulation and blisteringly hot searing capabilities. By incorporating two dedicated cooking chambers within a single heavy-duty unit, this smoker grill gives families, barbecue enthusiasts, and frequent entertainers the freedom to smoke barbecue cuts on one side while grilling appetizers, steaks, or sides on the other.
Temperature performance is anchored by recteq's PID control system, which manages heat across a wide operating range spanning from 180°F up to 700°F. For traditional low-and-slow smoking, the lower thresholds support steady smoke circulation around pork shoulders, briskets, and racks of ribs. When it is time for burgers, reverse-seared steaks, or baked dishes, the top end of the temperature spectrum provides the high heat that standard pellet smokers often struggle to reach. Integrated Wi-Fi functionality pairs with the electronic controller, allowing you to monitor chamber conditions remotely from the patio or inside the house without constantly opening the lids.
Build quality stands out as one of the defining characteristics of this model. Constructed from high-grade stainless steel, the body is designed to handle routine backyard exposure far better than thin-gauge, painted sheet metal. High-grade stainless steel helps retain thermal energy in the cooking chambers while providing long-term defense against rust and wear. The unit is supported by recteq's comprehensive bumper-to-bumper warranty coverage, reflecting the brand's confidence in the mechanical hardware, structural components, and electronic controllers.
Operating the DualFire 1200 follows standard pellet grill convenience, combining push-button electric ignition with automated fuel delivery. Because it requires standard electrical power to run the PID controller and pellet feed system, placement on an open outdoor patio or deck with convenient outlet access is essential. As with any wood pellet cooker, routine maintenance involves clearing spent wood ash from the burn area and cleaning the grease management surfaces between long cooks. The dual-chamber design does mean managing two distinct cooking spaces, but the straightforward layout keeps maintenance practical.
There are a few realistic factors to keep in mind before bringing this cooker home. With its dual-chamber layout and heavy stainless steel build, the DualFire 1200 has a sizable footprint and considerable weight, making it strictly a stationary backyard centerpiece rather than a portable option for camping or tailgating. Additionally, its premium positioning represents a significant financial investment, which may be more smoker than occasional weekend cooks truly require.
For dedicated barbecue lovers, large households, and frequent weekend hosts who want complete versatility without purchasing separate dedicated smokers and searing stations, the recteq DualFire 1200 delivers an impressive combination of rugged stainless construction, twin-zone cooking flexibility, and modern Wi-Fi temperature management.
The primary advantage of the DualFire 1200 lies in its dual-chamber architecture, which addresses one of the classic limitations of single-chamber pellet smokers. Rather than waiting hours for a single chamber to cool down after searing or crank up after smoking, cooks can set different temperatures across two distinct zones. This configuration makes it possible to prepare low-and-slow barbecue cuts on one side while simultaneously roasting vegetables or searing burgers on the other.
This layout is particularly useful for family meals and game-day parties where varied menu items finish at different times and require drastically different heat levels. By uniting hot-and-fast grilling with slow wood-smoke cooking, the DualFire 1200 effectively streamlines backyard meal prep into a single outdoor station.
Precise temperature management is critical for authentic low-and-slow barbecue, and recteq addresses this through an integrated PID algorithm. This control system continuously measures chamber temperatures and modulates fuel and airflow to minimize major heat spikes or drops. With an advertised range from 180°F up to 700°F, users have access to gentle smoking temperatures as well as high-heat baking and grilling capabilities.
The addition of Wi-Fi connectivity brings modern convenience to all-day barbecue sessions. Cooks can check grill status, adjust settings, and monitor progress remotely using a smartphone app. This wireless oversight allows you to step away from the patio during long brisket or pork shoulder cooks without losing visibility over chamber performance.
The recteq DualFire 1200 is built with high-grade stainless steel across major structural components, offering substantial strength and weather resistance compared to standard coated steel cookers. Stainless steel naturally resists corrosion from humidity, rain, and outdoor elements, making it an excellent material choice for long-term backyard reliability.
Beyond durability, the heavy steel construction aids in heat retention, which helps maintain consistent internal chamber temperatures even when outdoor weather turns cool or breezy. The combination of solid metal fabrication and recteq bumper-to-bumper warranty backing makes this cooker a dependable, long-lasting investment for serious outdoor barbecue enthusiasts.
Pros
- Three cooking methods in one unit saves space and money while offering charcoal flavor, propane convenience, and smoke capability.
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates retain heat well and are easy to clean with minimal food sticking.
- Ample 840 SQIN cooking area handles large gatherings, tailgates, or backyard parties without running out of room.
- Sturdy build with stainless steel accents feels durable and stands up to outdoor weather conditions.
Cons
- Weight is significant at over 100 pounds, so moving it frequently for camping or tailgating may be a challenge.
- Assembly requires two people and takes some time due to the multiple components and gas line connections.
- Side smoker is relatively small (140 SQIN), limiting capacity for large smoking projects like multiple briskets.
The MFSTUDIO Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Smoker is a versatile outdoor cooking station designed for backyard grillers, BBQ enthusiasts, tailgaters, and anyone who loves cooking for a crowd. This three-in-one unit combines a propane grill, a charcoal grill, and a side smoker, all in one heavy-duty frame. With 840 square inches of total cooking area, it gives you plenty of space to prepare burgers, steaks, chicken, ribs, and vegetables all at the same time.
For real-world cooking performance, this grill delivers impressive flexibility. The gas side features three independently controlled burners producing 30,000 BTU, which provides consistent heat across the 311 SQIN cooking surface. You can sear steaks at high heat on one burner while gently cooking vegetables on another. The charcoal side offers 257 SQIN of space for that authentic smoky flavor that charcoal lovers crave. And the side smoker adds 140 SQIN for low-and-slow cooking like pork shoulder or brisket. Each zone has its own lid, so you can adjust temperatures without affecting the other sections. This setup works great for backyard parties where you want to serve a variety of meats and sides.
Build quality is solid for the price point. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates retain heat well and resist rust better than standard steel grates. The stainless steel control panel, lid handles, and trim accents add a modern look and hold up against outdoor exposure. The frame feels sturdy, and the combination of swivel and fixed wheels makes it easy to roll across a patio or deck. However, at over 100 pounds, this is not a portable grill you'll toss in the car for a camping trip. It's best suited for a permanent or semi-permanent spot in your backyard.
Setup takes some effort. The grill arrives in a large box, and you'll need two people to assemble it properly. The instructions are clear, but expect to spend a couple of hours putting everything together, especially when connecting the gas line. Once assembled, the grill feels stable and well-balanced. Cleanup is manageable thanks to the porcelain-enameled grates, which release food easily and can be scrubbed without much trouble. The grease management system channels drips away from the burners, reducing flare-ups during long cooks. The front seasoning rack and side bamboo cutting board are thoughtful touches that keep your workspace organized.
One realistic limitation is the size of the side smoker. While it works well for smoking a single brisket or a few racks of ribs, it's not large enough for big smoking projects. If you're planning to smoke multiple briskets for a large event, you might find the smoker a bit cramped. Also, the grill's weight makes it less practical for tailgating unless you have a truck or trailer. For backyard use, though, these trade-offs are minor given the overall versatility.
Overall, the MFSTUDIO Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Smoker is a strong choice for outdoor cooks who want the flexibility of multiple cooking methods without buying separate units. It's ideal for weekend BBQs, backyard parties, and family gatherings where you need to cook different foods at different temperatures. If you have the space and don't mind the assembly effort, this grill offers excellent value for its cooking capacity and durability.
Pros
- Accurate built-in thermometer helps monitor heat without opening the lid
- Ample 512 sq in cooking surface accommodates small gatherings and family cookouts
- Cart with wheels and storage shelves enhances portability and organization
- Solid offset smoker design delivers good smoke flavor for low-and-slow cooking
- Stainless steel handles stay cool and resist rust for long-term use
Cons
- Offset smoker requires practice to master temperature control and airflow balance
- No weather cover included, so you may need to buy one for outdoor storage
- Assembly can be time-consuming and may require two people for certain steps
The SUNLIFER Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker is a compact yet capable combo that brings together direct grilling and low-and-slow smoking in one affordable package. With 512 square inches of total cooking space, it’s designed for backyard grillers, campers, tailgaters, and anyone who loves cooking outdoors without breaking the bank. Whether you’re smoking a rack of ribs for a weekend BBQ or searing burgers for a casual patio dinner, this unit aims to deliver authentic charcoal flavor with decent control.
In terms of cooking performance, the built-in thermometer in the main chamber is a real plus. You can monitor the internal temperature without lifting the lid, which helps maintain steady heat. The adjustable air vents on both the grill and smoker let you tweak airflow to manage smoke intensity and temperature. For low-and-slow cooking like brisket or pork shoulder, the offset smoker produces a nice smoke ring and deep flavor. When you want to sear steaks or cook burgers, the main chamber gets hot enough for a good crust. The dual cooking grates in the main chamber mean you can add charcoal without hauling off the entire grate, a thoughtful touch for longer cooks.
Build quality is sturdy for the price. The grates feel rugged, and the connection between the grill and smoker is solid, which promotes efficient heat and smoke transfer. The cart-style wheels and stainless steel handles make it easy to roll around your patio or garden. The two storage shelves provide plenty of room for charcoal, tools, and plates. However, there’s no included cover, so if you plan to leave it outside, invest in one to protect against rust. The assembly requires some effort, but the instructions are clear enough for a weekend project.
Mobility and cleanup are straightforward. The wheels handle grass and pavement well, and the handles stay cool during cooking. Grease management is basic, so you’ll need to line the bottom or clean out ash regularly to prevent flare-ups. The offset smoker design means you’ll have to manage both fireboxes, but for the money, it’s a fair trade-off. Portability is good for a charcoal grill, and the compact footprint makes it suitable for small patios, balconies, or campsites.
Realistic limitations include the learning curve for offset smoking. Temperature swings are common until you get the hang of air vent adjustments. The cooking area is best for 2-4 people, so larger parties might feel cramped. Also, there’s no built-in ash catcher, so cleanup involves scooping out ash from the bottom. But for backyard enthusiasts who want to experiment with smoking without a huge investment, these are minor concerns.
Overall, the SUNLIFER Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker is a solid entry-level combo for anyone who loves charcoal cooking. It’s great for weekend BBQs, camping trips, or tailgating where you want both grilled and smoked food from one unit. If you’re a beginner looking to try smoking or a seasoned griller wanting a portable budget option, this hits the mark. Just be prepared to spend time learning its quirks, and you’ll be rewarded with tasty, smoky meals.
The SUNLIFER combo excels at low-and-slow smoking thanks to its offset firebox design. When you dial in the airflow with the adjustable vents, the unit holds a steady temperature range ideal for ribs, pulled pork, or chicken thighs. The smoke flavor infuses the meat nicely, giving that authentic backyard BBQ taste. For direct grilling, the main chamber reaches searing temperatures quickly, producing a good crust on steaks and burgers. However, you may need to manage coal placement to avoid hot spots. The two cooking grates let you move food around for even cooking, and the warming rack is handy for keeping buns or sides warm.
The built-in thermometer on the main chamber is accurate and easy to read, helping you monitor heat without lifting the lid. The adjustable air vents on the grill and smoker give you manual control over airflow and smoke intensity. For offset smoking, you’ll need to learn how small vent adjustments affect temperature swings. The thermometer’s placement is good, but it only measures the main chamber, not the smoker. You may want to add a separate probe for the smoker side to dial in low-and-slow cooks. Overall, for the price, the temperature control is respectable and offers hands-on learning.
This charcoal grill and smoker combo is designed with mobility in mind. The cart-style wheels roll smoothly over grass, gravel, and pavement, making it easy to move from your patio to the driveway for tailgating or to a campsite. The stainless steel handles stay cool and provide a good grip for pushing. The two storage shelves are a bonus, giving you space for charcoal, tongs, and plates while cooking. At under 50 pounds, it’s manageable for one person to cart around, though you’ll want a friend for loading into a vehicle. The compact footprint (21.6 x 39.7 x 42.9 inches) fits in most car trunks or SUV cargo areas.
This grill-smoker combo shines in several outdoor scenarios. For backyard cooks, it’s perfect for weekend BBQs with family or small groups. Campers will appreciate the portability and ability to both grill and smoke at a campsite. Tailgaters can bring it to parking lots for pre-game cookouts. It’s also great for patio cooking in apartments or homes with limited space. If you’re new to smoking, this is an affordable way to learn without committing to a dedicated smoker. Just keep in mind that large parties (more than 6 people) may need a bigger rig, but for intimate gatherings, it’s just right.
Pros
- Versatile dual-fuel design lets you choose gas convenience or charcoal flavor
- Solid triple-wall build retains heat and feels sturdy
- Easy-dump ash pan simplifies charcoal cleanup
- Electronic ignition lights the gas side reliably every time
Cons
- Weighs 116 pounds, so it's not easy to move around the yard
- Assembly can take a couple of hours and requires two people
- Side fire box sold separately if you want true offset smoking
The Char-Griller E5030 is a dual-function grill that combines a propane gas side with a charcoal cooking chamber, giving you the best of both worlds in one package. With 24,000 BTUs from two stainless steel burners and 870 square inches of total cooking space, this grill is built for backyard cooks who want flexibility. You can fire up the gas for a quick sear on steaks or burgers, then use the charcoal side for low-and-slow smoking of ribs or brisket. It's a practical choice for anyone who loves outdoor cooking but doesn't have room for two separate grills.
This grill is best suited for backyard grillers, BBQ enthusiasts, and patio cooks who like to entertain. If you're the type who hosts weekend cookouts or tailgates, the dual-fuel setup means you can handle everything from hot dogs to smoked chicken without switching equipment. It's also a solid option for RV owners or campers who want a versatile cooking rig at their campsite, though the 116-pound weight makes it more of a permanent patio fixture than a portable one.
In terms of real-world cooking performance, the gas side heats up fast and holds steady temperatures thanks to the two independent burners. You can sear a steak on one side while gently cooking veggies on the other. The charcoal side takes a bit longer to get going, but once it's lit, the triple-wall steel insulation helps maintain consistent heat for hours. Smoke flavor comes through nicely when you use charcoal, and you can add wood chunks for extra depth. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates retain heat well and leave beautiful sear marks on meat.
Build quality is solid for the price point. The lid is made from heavy-gauge steel with a powder-coated finish that resists rust, and the triple-wall construction helps with heat retention. The grates feel durable and should last several seasons with proper care. The grill sits on two fixed wheels and two swivel casters, so rolling it around a flat patio is manageable, but it's not something you'll want to move frequently. Assembly takes a couple of hours and is easier with a second person to hold parts in place.
Cleanup is straightforward thanks to the easy-dump ash pan on the charcoal side. You just pull it out and dump the ashes into a metal container. The gas side has a standard grease tray that catches drips and is easy to remove and wash. The side shelf gives you extra prep space and includes utensil hooks, which is handy when you're juggling multiple dishes. One limitation is that the side fire box for true offset smoking is sold separately, so if you want that extra smoky flavor, you'll need to buy it as an add-on.
Overall, the Char-Griller E5030 is a practical and versatile grill for anyone who wants the convenience of gas and the flavor of charcoal without taking up twice the space. It's ideal for backyard entertaining, weekend BBQs, and even tailgating if you have a way to transport it. The build is solid, the cooking performance is reliable, and the dual-fuel flexibility makes it a smart buy for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who like to experiment with different techniques.
Pros
- Combines gas convenience, charcoal flavor, and smoking capability in one affordable package
- Good heat retention from porcelain-enameled cast iron grates; even cooking across main gas and charcoal zones
- Large cooking area with multiple zones: 333 sq in gas, 333 sq in charcoal, 197 sq in smoker, plus warming rack
- Built-in bottle opener and spacious middle shelf add practicality for tailgating and backyard entertaining
Cons
- At 87 pounds it's not truly portable for camping or RV trips; better suited for stationary patio or backyard use
- Assembly can be time-consuming due to multiple parts; clear instructions are needed but may require two people
- Offset smoker capacity is modest (1.5 lb max charcoal) so it's best for smaller smoking sessions, not large briskets
The GrillsHouse ZH3005Y-SC is a true multitasker for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. This 2-burner combo grill pairs a gas cooking zone with a dedicated charcoal side and an attached offset smoker, giving you the flexibility to grill burgers on propane while slow-smoking ribs over charcoal. With 34,000 total BTU and 1020 square inches of cooking space, it's built to handle everything from quick weeknight dinners to weekend tailgates and backyard parties.
Best suited for backyard grillers who want authentic smoky flavor without giving up the convenience of gas, this grill also appeals to tailgaters and campers who need a single rig that does it all. The main gas area heats up fast and sears steaks nicely, while the charcoal side reaches high temps for a proper crust on burgers. The offset smoker, though smaller than dedicated models, works well for small batches of chicken or pork, and the adjustable charcoal pan lets you manage heat for low-and-slow cooking or direct searing.
Build quality is solid for the price point. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates retain heat and are easy to clean, and the stainless steel warming rack keeps food warm without overcooking. The lid-mounted thermometer on both cooking sides helps monitor temperatures, and the piezo ignition fires up the gas burners without batteries. The 87-pound weight makes it a semi-permanent fixture on a patio or deck rather than a portable camping stove, but the sturdy wheels allow you to roll it into position for a tailgate or move it around the yard.
Ease of use is a highlight. The side burner flips down to become extra workspace, and the front basket keeps seasonings and drinks handy. The large middle shelf holds plates and charcoal bags, while the built-in bottle opener is a nice touch for entertaining. Cleanup is manageable: the cast iron grates scrub well, and the smoker's side door makes ash removal simple. One realistic limitation is that the offset smoker has a small charcoal capacity (1.5 lb), so you'll need to refuel for longer smokes. Also, assembly requires some patience due to numerous parts, but the instructions are decent for a grill in this range.
Overall, the GrillsHouse combo grill delivers impressive versatility for its price. It's ideal for outdoor cooks who want to experiment with charcoal and smoking without buying separate units. For backyard party hosts, tailgaters, and BBQ enthusiasts who value flexibility, this grill is a practical choice that won't break the bank. Just don't expect it to travel light, and manage your expectations for the smoker's capacity, and you'll be rewarded with flavorful meals cooked your way.
The dual-fuel design lets you switch between gas and charcoal in seconds. The two main burners each produce 12,000 BTU, delivering consistent heat across the porcelain-enameled cast iron grates. Searing is solid for burgers and steaks, and the charcoal side reaches high temps for a smoky char. The offset smoker produces good smoke circulation with its airflow vents and smokestack, though you'll need to monitor charcoal levels on longer cooks. The 3-level adjustable charcoal pan helps manage heat zones for searing or slow-cooking.
This grill shines at weekend BBQs where you want to grill burgers on gas while smoking chicken wings or pork belly on the charcoal side. Tailgaters will appreciate the side burner for sauces or sides, and the large cooking area handles feeding a crowd. Campers and RV owners should note the 87-pound weight, but if you have a truck or trailer and a designated spot at the campsite, the combo setup lets you cook everything from breakfast to brisket without hauling multiple grills.
Pros
- Offers both charcoal smoking and gas grilling in one unit, maximizing cooking options
- Heats up quickly on the gas side with 36,000 BTU burners for fast searing
- Sturdy build with painted steel body and heavy-duty wheels for long-term use
- Easy ash removal system simplifies cleanup after smoking
Cons
- Very heavy at 196 pounds, making it difficult to move without help
- Some users report paint blistering on the smoker chamber after use, raising durability concerns
- Gas side lacks a removable grease tray, requiring manual drip pan management
If you're serious about outdoor cooking and want the flexibility to smoke brisket for 12 hours or throw burgers on a hot gas grill in minutes, the Oklahoma Joe's Canyon Combo is worth a close look. This 2-in-1 setup pairs a charcoal-fired smoker with a 3-burner gas grill, giving you two distinct cooking tools in one footprint. It's built for backyard grillers who appreciate real smoke flavor but also need the convenience of propane when time is tight.
In the real world, this combo delivers where it counts. The charcoal side runs low and slow with indirect heat, and the adjustable dampers let you dial in temperatures for consistent smoke rings on pork shoulders or ribs. You can add hardwood chunks or splits for extra flavor. The gas side fires up to 36,000 BTUs across three burners, getting hot enough for a solid sear on steaks or finishing a reverse-seared chop after a stint in the smoker. The primary cooking area spans 750 square inches, plus a 281 square inch firebox grate, so you have room for two pork shoulders and a dozen burgers at once.
Construction quality is decent for the price point. The painted steel body feels sturdy, and the rubber-treaded wagon wheels handle uneven patio stones or grass without bogging down. Pivoting cool-touch lids are a thoughtful touch when you're holding a platter of meat. However, some users have noted the paint on the smoker chamber can blister after exposure to high heat, which is a concern for long-term rust protection. It's worth keeping an eye on and possibly seasoning the paint before heavy use.
Assembly is manageable for two people, though at 196 pounds you'll want help lifting and moving it into place. The removable ash pan makes cleaning the firebox much less of a chore, and the flat bottom shelf with a raised edge holds your wood splits or propane tank securely. On the gas side, cleanup is a bit more involved since there's no removable drip tray, just a catch pan underneath. Plan to line that with foil for easier maintenance.
One realistic limitation is that the charcoal fire requires attention - you'll need to add fuel and adjust dampers every 20-30 minutes to maintain steady temps. This isn't a set-and-forget pellet grill, but for traditional smoking enthusiasts that's part of the appeal. Also, the grill's weight makes it a semi-permanent fixture rather than something you'd take tailgating easily. It's best suited for a dedicated spot on your patio or deck.
Overall, the Oklahoma Joe's Canyon Combo is a solid investment for backyard BBQ lovers who want one rig that does both smoking and grilling well. It's not perfect - the paint durability and gas side cleanup are valid drawbacks - but its cooking versatility and straightforward design make it a practical choice for weekend cooks who value authentic flavor and quick heat.
The Canyon Combo shines when you want to switch between smoking and grilling without switching cookers. On the charcoal side, the horizontal chamber and adjustable dampers give you good control for low-and-slow cooking - expect to hold 225-275°F with regular attention. The firebox can accommodate wood chunks or splits, adding robust smoke flavor to your meats. On the gas side, the three burners heat up fast and provide even heat across the primary area, perfect for burgers, hot dogs, or chicken. The gas grill can reach 500°F+ for searing, and the lid holds heat well even in cooler weather. Keep in mind that running both sides simultaneously will raise ambient temps, so plan your cooks accordingly.
Cleanup is mixed but manageable. The charcoal side has a removable ash pan that collects ash from the firebox - just pull it out and dump it when cool. The gas side lacks a removable grease tray, so you'll need to place a drip pan under the grates or line the bottom with foil to catch drips. The steel grates can be brushed after each use, and the painted steel body wipes down easily. Keep the dampers and smokestack clear of buildup for consistent airflow. Overall, the ash pan is a nice time-saver for charcoal users, but the gas side requires a bit more manual effort to keep clean.
Pros
- Offset smoker allows true dual cooking - grilling and smoking at the same time without extra gear
- Adjustable charcoal pan gives you real heat control for different cooking styles, from hot searing to gentle smoking
- Wooden shelves with hooks add practical prep space that keeps your cooking area tidy and organized
- Porcelain grates are sturdy and resist rust, making cleanup simple after a long cookout
Cons
- At 38.6 pounds, it's not the lightest grill for camping or frequent transport, but the wheels help on flat surfaces
- The offset smoker adds some complexity for beginners, requiring practice to manage two heat zones at once
- Assembly can take a bit of time, with multiple parts to put together before your first cook
The Royal Gourmet CC1624W is a barrel-style charcoal grill with a built-in offset smoker, designed for backyard cooks who want more than just basic grilling. With 552 square inches of total cooking area, including a main grate, a warming rack, and the smoker, it can handle up to 22 burgers or a full brisket for a party of 6-8 people. This setup is ideal for weekend BBQs, patio dinners, or any outdoor gathering where you want to grill and smoke at the same time.
Real-world cooking performance is solid. The height-adjustable charcoal pan lets you move the coals closer or farther from the food, giving you real control over heat. You can sear steaks hot and fast, or drop the pan down for low-and-slow smoking on the offset side. The sealed cooking chamber and adjustable dampers on the smoker door and stack help maintain consistent temperatures without losing too much heat. This means better fuel efficiency and fewer flare-ups, especially when you're cooking for hours.
Build quality is practical for the price. The porcelain-enameled steel wire grates resist rust and are easy to clean after a cook. The wooden front and side shelves with hooks keep your tools, plates, and seasonings close by, so you don't have to run back to the kitchen. The two large wagon-style wheels make it easy to roll the grill across your patio or yard, even when it's loaded with charcoal. Just keep in mind it's not super lightweight for camping, but the wheels help on flat ground.
Ease of setup is straightforward, but you'll need some time to assemble the shelves and smoker. Once it's together, cleanup is simple. The grates are easy to scrub, and the ash catcher (not included, but the mesh bottom shelf helps with airflow) keeps things tidy. Storage is fine for a backyard grill, but it's not compact enough for a small RV or tight campsite. It's best on a patio or in a yard with room to move.
A realistic limitation is the offset smoker learning curve. If you're new to smoking, managing two heat zones takes practice. But once you get it, you can smoke a rack of ribs while grilling burgers on the main side. It's a great value for the price, especially if you want to try both grilling and smoking without buying two separate units.
Overall, this Royal Gourmet grill is a smart buy for backyard BBQ enthusiasts, patio cooks, and anyone who loves outdoor entertaining. It delivers real smoke flavor and good heat control for the money, making it a practical choice for weekend parties and family cookouts.
Pros
- Versatile 3-in-1 design with gas, charcoal, griddle, and optional smoker capability.
- Generous 1,260 sq in cooking surface fits burgers, ribs, and sides for a crowd.
- Removable flat-top griddle adds breakfast and stir-fry options.
- Electronic ignition on gas side for hassle-free lighting.
- Cast iron cooking grates provide excellent heat retention and searing.
Cons
- Assembly instructions are poorly written and frustrating to follow.
- Build quality concerns: thin sheet metal may rust over time if not maintained.
- Heavy and bulky at 170 pounds; not suitable for portability or camping.
- Charcoal side lid may not close smoothly, requiring adjustment.
The Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus is a 3-in-1 outdoor cooking station that brings together gas grilling, charcoal grilling, and a flat-top griddle. It’s designed for backyard cooks who want maximum flexibility without crowding their patio with multiple units. You can fire up the gas side for a quick midweek dinner, then load the charcoal side for a weekend slow-smoked brisket. Add the optional side fire box (sold separately) and you’ve got a Texas-style offset smoker.
This rig is best suited for grill enthusiasts who love to experiment. It works great for backyard parties, tailgating (if you have a truck or trailer to move it), and patio cooking. The griddle insert opens up breakfast and stir-fry possibilities, making it a true all-in-one solution. Just keep in mind that this is a stationary grill, not a portable camping stove.
Cooking performance is solid. The gas side heats up fast with three stainless steel burners producing 30,000 BTUs. You get even heat across the grates, and the cast iron grates retain heat well for good sear marks. The charcoal side lets you control temperature with an adjustable tray and dual dampers, so you can dial in the perfect smokiness for ribs or chicken. The included griddle heats evenly and is pre-seasoned, so it’s ready to go out of the box.
Build quality is a mixed bag. The grill feels sturdy once assembled, but the sheet metal on both cooking chambers is thin. One reviewer noted rust under the paint before assembly, which raises concerns about long-term durability. The cast iron grates are heavy and durable, but the overall frame and lid feel less robust than some premium brands. The grill is also very heavy at 170 pounds, so you won’t be moving it around easily. Assembly is a headache — instructions are vague and lack detail, so plan on spending a few hours with a screwdriver and some patience.
Cleanup is manageable thanks to the EasyDump ash pan on the charcoal side and the front-access grease cup on the gas side. The griddle is removable and easy to wipe down. You’ll want to keep the grates seasoned and watch for early signs of rust on the painted surfaces.
Overall, the Char-Griller Flex Fuel Plus offers great versatility for the price. If you value having multiple cooking methods in one package and don’t mind a challenging assembly, this grill will serve you well for backyard entertaining. Just be prepared to give it some TLC to prevent rust and make sure the charcoal lid closes properly. For grillers who want a dedicated smoker or a purely portable unit, look elsewhere. But for the weekend cook who enjoys both fast grilling and low-and-slow, this is a solid choice.
The gas side fires up quickly with electronic ignition and delivers consistent heat across the cooking grates. The three burners allow for zone cooking, so you can sear steaks on high while keeping vegetables on low. The cast iron grates hold heat well and produce nice sear marks.
The charcoal side offers excellent temperature control via the adjustable tray and dual dampers. You can run it hot for direct grilling or dial it down for low-and-slow smoking. The griddle insert works great for breakfast foods, grilled cheese, and stir-fries. It heats evenly and is easy to season.
For smoking, you’ll want to add the optional side fire box (not included). The grill itself can handle some indirect cooking, but true offset smoking requires the attachment. Overall, cooking flexibility is the big win here. You can switch from gas to charcoal to griddle in minutes, making it easy to tackle any meal.
Key Factors When Selecting the Best Combination Grill And Smoker
Selecting the right combo cooker means balancing your cooking style against patio footprint and maintenance. A reliable best combination grill and smoker streamlines backyard meals by eliminating awkward fuel compromises. Evaluating key build features ensures your investment delivers dependable heat and lasting value.
Primary cooking space matters far more than total square inches padded by warming racks. Combo cookers split room between gas grates, charcoal pans, and side smoker chambers, so verify each chamber handles your typical meal. Adequate main grate space lets you spread out steaks or burgers without crowding. Matching cooking area to your routine cookouts keeps meal preparation smooth.
Most dual-fuel units pair propane burners with an offset charcoal firebox for distinct cooking modes. Gas burners provide rapid ignition for busy weeknights, while charcoal fireboxes deliver authentic wood-smoke aromatics for low-and-slow barbecue. If you primarily cook on gas but want subtle wood smoke, adding a smoker box for gas grill cookouts offers another practical path. Select a fuel setup that matches how much time you want to spend tending fire.
Reliable heat control keeps food from burning or stalling during long cooks. Look for independent burner controls, adjustable charcoal trays, and responsive damper systems to fine-tune internal airflow. Heavy steel lids and sealed cookboxes help prevent wild temperature swings during breezy patio afternoons. Stable airflow regulation makes smoking ribs and searing burgers predictable.
Dual-fuel grills generate both meat drippings and charcoal ash, making efficient cleanup essential. Removable ash pans and slide-out drip trays prevent debris buildup and help reduce grease flare-ups. Porcelain-enameled grates release cooked food easily, saving time when brushing down the cooking surface after dinner. Prioritizing accessible cleanup parts keeps your grill running reliably all season.
Weighing your cooking habits, patio space, and maintenance preferences ensures you find the best combination grill and smoker that matches your backyard routine. A solid combo station turns your patio into a capable outdoor kitchen throughout 2026.


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