8 Best Cuisinart Gas Charcoal Combo Grill of 2026 for Backyard Cookouts

The GRILL DEPOTS Dual Fuel Propane Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill is built for backyard cooks who do not want to choose between the convenience of gas and the traditional character of charcoal. By placing two independent cooking chambers on one shared cart, this hybrid unit lets you grill quick burgers on the propane side while tending to slow-cooked meats or smoky poultry on the charcoal side. It is well suited for families, weekend entertainers, and couples who want outdoor cooking flexibility without crowding their deck with two distinct appliances.

Daily cooking performance benefits from the two distinct fuel configurations. The propane section is powered by four stainless steel burners rated at a collective 29,000 BTU output, providing direct heat across the cooking zone for fast preheating and weeknight family dinners. On the charcoal side, temperature management is handled through a height-adjustable fuel pan. Raising the tray brings the hot coals closer to the food for searing steaks, while lowering it provides the clearance and moderate heat needed for longer roasting. A built-in side burner adds practical utility, giving you a dedicated burner for simmering barbecue sauce, boiling corn, or warming beans without running back to the indoor kitchen.

In terms of construction, the grill features a black and silver finish with porcelain-enameled components engineered for heat resilience and simple wiping. The four main burners are made from stainless steel to resist premature corrosion from grease and flare-ups. Weighing 73 pounds, the cart is lighter than cast-iron hybrid units, which makes maneuvering easier but also means the metal is lighter gauge. Taking care to cover the grill between uses will help preserve the exterior finish across changing weather conditions.

Setting up and handling the grill around your patio is straightforward. Measuring approximately 14.77 inches deep, 58.05 inches wide, and 42.73 inches high, the unit has a slim profile that tucks neatly against an exterior wall or railing. Four swivel casters, including two locking wheels, allow you to roll the grill out for cooking and lock it safely in place. Post-cook cleanup is organized by fuel source: the gas chamber features a pull-out drip tray that collects runoff grease, while the charcoal chamber has a slide-out ash pan that lets you dump spent ashes without dirtying your hands inside the cookbox.

There are some realistic limitations to keep in mind before purchasing. Because the 58-inch width is divided between two separate fireboxes and a side burner, each individual cooking grate is narrower than what you would find on a dedicated full-size gas grill or standalone kettle. Cooks who regularly host massive gatherings and need to grill dozens of patties at once may find the divided layout restrictive. Additionally, the lighter construction means heat retention on the charcoal side can be influenced by windy or cold ambient conditions.

For homeowners and outdoor cooks who value versatility above all else, this GRILL DEPOTS combo grill offers strong everyday value. It combines the rapid startup of a 4-burner propane grill with the hands-on fun of adjustable charcoal cooking, making it an adaptable cooking center for any patio or backyard setting.

The standout feature of this grill is its side-by-side fuel layout, allowing you to use propane and charcoal simultaneously or independently. On busy weeknights, you can ignite the gas burners for a fast dinner of hot dogs, chicken breasts, or grilled vegetables without waiting for charcoal to ash over. When you have more time on weekends, you can fire up lump charcoal or briquettes to achieve the classic aroma and flavor that only real coals provide.

Having an integrated side burner further expands your outdoor cooking capability. Rather than occupying main grate space with pots and pans, you can prepare glazes, warm barbecue sauces, or saute side items right next to your grilling food. This self-contained setup minimizes trips back and forth between the kitchen and the backyard.

Cleaning dual-fuel grills can sometimes be tedious, but this unit addresses maintenance with dedicated pull-out systems for each side. The propane section is equipped with a slide-out grease drip tray that captures drippings beneath the burners, helping to prevent heavy grease accumulation in the base of the firebox.

For the charcoal chamber, a slide-out ash tray catches falling ash and spent coals. Once the grill has fully cooled, you can easily pull the tray out, empty it into a metal disposal container, and slide it back in without needing a vacuum or hand shovel. Routine brushing of the porcelain-enameled cooking surfaces and keeping the drip trays clean will help ensure consistent performance over time.

The Cuisinart FlavorBoost 8-in-1 Outdoor Electric Grill is a versatile addition to any outdoor cooking setup, especially for those who want smoky BBQ flavor without dealing with charcoal or propane. This electric grill functions as a smoker, air fryer, broiler, roaster, baker, dehydrator, and warmer – all in one compact unit. It’s designed for patio cooks, tailgaters, campers with access to power, RV owners, and apartment dwellers who want real grilling on a small balcony.

In terms of real-world cooking performance, the FlavorBoost surprises. The electric heating element provides consistent temperatures across the 154-square-inch cooking area, and you can open the lid to sear steaks or burgers directly – something many electric grills lack. The standout feature is the Smoke button: press it during any cooking mode, and the grill injects authentic smoke flavor from the included wood chips. For low-and-slow smoking, the dedicated Smoker mode maintains a gentle heat perfect for ribs or chicken thighs. The built-in temperature probe takes the guesswork out of doneness, automatically switching to keep warm when your food hits the target temp.

Build quality feels sturdy for a portable electric grill. The green exterior is durable and weather-resistant, and the cooking grates are nonstick for easier cleanup. The unit sits on four stable legs, but note it doesn’t have folding legs or wheels – you’ll carry it to your tailgate or campsite. At 30.6 pounds, it's not heavy enough to be a burden for car camping or RV trips, but it’s not suited for backpacking. The lid seals well to retain heat and moisture, and the moisture cup adds versatility: add beer, apple cider, or broth to keep food tender and add subtle flavor layers.

Setup is as simple as plugging it into a standard outlet. There’s no assembly required beyond maybe attaching the temperature probe. Cleanup is relatively easy: the nonstick grates wipe down, and the drip tray catches most grease. Because there’s no charcoal ash or propane tank to manage, you spend more time cooking and less time scrubbing. However, the cooking area is limited – it fits six burgers or a small brisket, so larger backyard parties may require multiple batches.

Limitations are realistic: you need a power source, which rules out primitive campsites. The 154 sq in surface is fine for a family of four but not for feeding a crowd. Some users might wish for a larger capacity, but the trade-off is portability and storage convenience. The price point of around $380 is competitive for an 8-in-1 electric grill with smoke capability, especially considering Cuisinart’s reputation for reliable kitchen gear.

Overall, the Cuisinart FlavorBoost is a practical choice for anyone who values versatility and smoky flavor without the fuss of traditional grills. It's great for small patios, tailgating at the sports field, or camping with hookups. If you want one appliance that can grill, smoke, air fry, and more – all outdoors – this is a solid buy. Just be aware of its size limits and the need for electricity.

The Cuisinart FlavorBoost electric grill delivers even heat across its porcelain-coated cooking grates, allowing you to sear steaks with the lid open or close it for convection-style roasting. The Smoke button kicks in a fan that circulates wood smoke from the built-in chip tray, giving you real BBQ flavor without charcoal or gas. The temperature range goes from low smoke (around 180°F) up to high searing heat (450°F+), giving you flexibility for everything from jerky to burgers. The built-in probe eliminates overcooking, and the moisture cup helps keep lean cuts like chicken breast tender. For fast grilling, the electric element responds quickly; for overnight smoking, the consistent temperature holds steady without constant adjustment.

This Cuisinart grill is designed for portability. It measures 18.8 x 16.7 x 14.6 inches, small enough to fit in a car trunk or RV storage compartment. There are no folding legs or wheels, so you'll need to carry it by the side handles. Setup is minimal – just place it on a stable, level surface, plug into a grounded outlet, and you’re ready to cook. The 30.6-pound weight is manageable for one person but not ideal for frequent long carries. For tailgating or camping with power hookups, the FlavorBoost is a great companion. Cleanup after cooking involves wiping down the nonstick grates and emptying the removable drip tray. Overall, it’s a practical option for those who want to bring versatile cooking to their campsite or tailgate without the mess of charcoal.

The Cuisinart FlavorBoost shines in a variety of outdoor scenarios. Backyard grillers on small patios or balconies where gas or charcoal is prohibited will appreciate its electric convenience and built-in smoker. Tailgaters can plug in at the stadium parking lot to cook burgers, wings, and even air-fried snacks. RV owners with electrical hookups can use it for smoking ribs or roasting vegetables while traveling. Campers at developed campsites with power access can enjoy real BBQ flavor without tending a fire. For apartment dwellers, this grill lets you host small parties with minimal smoke and no charcoal ash. Use cases also include making jerky, dehydrating fruit, or keeping food warm during holiday gatherings. Just remember the 154 sq in limit – plan for smaller batches or sequential cooking.

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.

The Royal Gourmet ZH3002N is a dual-fuel grill combo that brings together the best of both worlds: the quick convenience of propane and the rich, smoky flavor of charcoal. Designed for backyard grillers, BBQ enthusiasts, and outdoor entertainers, this grill lets you cook burgers, steaks, chicken, and veggies on the gas side while smoking ribs or brisket on the charcoal side. It's a solid choice for anyone who wants flexibility without needing two separate grills.

In real-world use, the gas side heats up fast and maintains consistent temperatures for searing steaks or grilling burgers for a crowd. The two burners put out 20,000 BTUs, which is enough for direct grilling but not for high-heat searing like a dedicated gas grill. The charcoal side gives you that authentic smoke flavor, but it takes more time to light and manage the coals. You can use it for low-and-slow cooking if you're patient, but it's better suited for direct grilling over hot coals. The total cooking area of 759 square inches includes a warming rack, so you can keep food hot while finishing other items.

Build quality is decent for the price point. The grill uses steel construction with a silver and black finish that resists rust and weather reasonably well. The cooking grates are porcelain-coated, which helps with heat retention and makes them easier to clean. The two side shelves are sturdy and provide plenty of prep space for plates, seasonings, and tools. The integrated hooks are handy for hanging spatulas and tongs. The grill sits on two 6-inch wheels and two lockable casters, so you can roll it around your patio or deck without much effort. However, at over 100 pounds, it's not something you'll want to move frequently or take on camping trips.

Setup requires some assembly, and the instructions could be clearer. Expect to spend an hour or two putting it together with basic tools. Once assembled, the grill feels solid and stable. Cleanup is straightforward: the charcoal side has a slide-out ash tray for easy ash disposal, and the gas side has a removable grease cup and tray that catch drippings. This makes post-cookout cleanup much less of a chore compared to many grills in this price range.

One limitation is that the charcoal side doesn't have an adjustable air damper for precise temperature control, so you'll need to manage airflow manually by adjusting the lid or using a chimney starter. The gas side also lacks a built-in thermometer, so you'll want to use an external probe for accurate temperature readings. These are minor drawbacks for the price, but worth noting if you're serious about smoking or precise grilling.

Overall, the Royal Gourmet ZH3002N is a practical choice for backyard cooks who want the flexibility of both gas and charcoal without breaking the bank. It's great for weekend BBQs, tailgating in the driveway, or patio parties where you need to cook a variety of foods. If you're a dedicated smoker or need a portable grill for camping, you might want to look elsewhere. But for most home grillers, this combo delivers solid performance and convenience at a reasonable price.

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.

The Sophia & William 3-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker is a versatile outdoor cooking station designed for backyard grillers who refuse to compromise on flavor or convenience. This dual-fuel system combines a propane-powered gas side for quick weeknight dinners with a charcoal side that delivers that classic smoky taste. The attached offset smoker takes things further, letting you slow-smoke ribs, brisket, or chicken for hours. It's a practical solution for anyone who loves hosting backyard parties or simply wants the flexibility to choose their cooking method based on the meal and occasion.

This grill is best suited for backyard cooks and BBQ enthusiasts who have the space for a larger unit. If you regularly entertain a crowd or enjoy experimenting with different cooking styles, this combo grill gives you options. Campers and tailgaters might find the 132-pound weight and size a bit much to haul around, but for patio or deck use, it's a solid centerpiece. The 840 square inches of total cooking area, including a warming rack and smoker, means you can handle burgers for a dozen people while also smoking a rack of ribs on the side.

In terms of real-world cooking performance, the gas side heats up quickly thanks to three stainless steel burners producing 30,000 BTU. It maintains consistent temperatures for searing steaks or grilling chicken breasts. The charcoal side features a 3-level adjustable charcoal pan, which is a nice touch. Raise it for high-heat searing that gives you those restaurant-style marks, or lower it for indirect cooking and low-and-slow smoking. The offset smoker works as advertised, forcing smoke to travel horizontally across the meat, which creates a deep smoke ring and rich flavor. You can manage the charcoal and wood chips easily through the side access door without lifting the cooking grate.

Build quality is decent for the price point. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are heavy-duty and resist rust when properly seasoned. They hold heat well and create even sear marks. The overall construction feels sturdy, though the grill is heavy and not designed for portability. The wheels help you move it around the patio, but don't expect to take it camping or tailgating. The pull-out ash tray and slide-out grease tray make cleanup much easier than many combo grills. You can simply slide them out to dispose of ash and drippings, which minimizes mess and helps reduce flare-ups during cooking.

Setup is straightforward but will require some time and patience given the size and number of parts. It's a two-person job for sure. Once assembled, the grill feels solid and ready for regular use. The grease management system is effective at keeping drippings away from burners, which is a common issue with combo grills. One realistic limitation is the weight and footprint; if you have a small balcony or limited storage, this may not be the best fit. Also, the charcoal side takes a bit more effort to clean compared to the gas side, but the removable ash tray helps.

Overall, the Sophia & William 3-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker is a practical investment for backyard cooks who want versatility without buying multiple grills. It handles everything from quick weeknight burgers to all-day smoking sessions. If you have the space and don't need a portable grill, this combo delivers solid cooking performance and genuine smoke flavor. It's a reliable choice for outdoor entertaining and family cookouts.

The gas side of this combo grill heats up fast thanks to three stainless steel burners delivering 30,000 BTU total. You get consistent heat across the cooking surface, which is great for searing steaks, grilling burgers, or cooking chicken. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates hold heat well and create even sear marks. On the charcoal side, the adjustable pan lets you control the distance from the coals. Raise it for high-heat searing or lower it for indirect cooking and smoking. The offset smoker adds real smoke flavor, forcing heat and smoke to flow horizontally across the meat. This design produces a nice smoke ring and deep flavor for ribs, brisket, or pork shoulder. Overall, the cooking performance is versatile and reliable for both quick grilling and low-and-slow BBQ.

Temperature control on the gas side is straightforward with individual burner knobs. You can adjust each burner independently to create different heat zones for direct and indirect cooking. The charcoal side offers a three-level adjustable charcoal pan. Raising the pan brings the coals closer for high-heat searing, while lowering it creates a cooler zone for slow cooking or smoking. This gives you good flexibility without needing to add or remove coals. The offset smoker relies on managing airflow and fuel, but the side access door makes it easy to add charcoal or wood chips without disturbing the cooking grate. While not as precise as a digital controller, the manual adjustments work well once you get the hang of it.

Cleaning this combo grill is easier than many similar models thanks to the pull-out ash tray and slide-out grease tray. The ash tray covers the charcoal side and offset smoker, so you can simply pull it out and dispose of ash without scraping or tipping the grill. The grease tray slides out from under the gas side, collecting drippings and making cleanup quick. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are durable and resist rust when seasoned properly. They clean up well with a grill brush after each use. The overall grease management system helps minimize flare-ups by directing drippings away from the burners. Regular maintenance includes emptying the ash and grease trays after each cookout and occasionally cleaning the burner tubes to ensure even gas flow.