7 Best Gas Charcoal Grill With Side Burner 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 Charbroil Pro Series 4-Burner Gas Grill with Amplifire Infrared Technology is a versatile outdoor cooking machine built for the homeowner who wants more than just a standard gas grill. It combines a powerful propane grill, a built-in griddle, and the ability to run charcoal (with an optional tray) all in one cabinet-style unit. This is not a portable grill for campgrounds or tailgate lots; it's a backyard centerpiece designed for weekend BBQs, patio parties, and family meals where you want to cook everything from seared steaks and chicken to pancakes and fajitas on the same surface.

Who is it best suited for? Backyard grillers who love experimenting with different cooking styles will appreciate the 60-second swap between grill grates and griddle. BBQ enthusiasts who miss that charcoal smokiness can add the Gas2Coal tray and get the best of both worlds. Patio cooks and outdoor entertainers will find the 802.9 square inches of total cooking space enough for up to 25 burgers or 12 steaks at once, plus a warming rack for keeping sides hot. The side burner is handy for simmering sauce or boiling corn while the main grates are busy.

Real-world cooking performance is strong. The Amplifire infrared system spreads heat evenly across the 535 square inches of primary grilling space, so you don't get hot spots that burn one burger while leaving another underdone. Searing steaks works well - the cast-iron grates get hot fast and leave nice grill marks. The griddle surface heats consistently for pancakes, eggs, or chopped veggies. Temperature control is straightforward with four main burners plus a side burner, and the grill reaches 500 degrees in about ten minutes. For low-and-slow cooking, you can use indirect heat with the warming rack or go charcoal mode for real smoke flavor. Fuel efficiency is decent for a 45,000 BTU grill because the infrared system uses that energy effectively.

Build quality is solid for the price point. The lid is made of painted steel, the grates are porcelain-coated cast iron that resists rust, and the cabinet is sturdy enough to hold the weight. The two 8-inch wheels and two locking casters make moving it around the patio straightforward, but at 187 pounds you won't want to shift it often. Weather resistance is adequate for outdoor storage with a cover (sold separately). The griddle insert has a rear grease slot that channels drippings into the drip tray, making cleanup simpler than a full flat top.

Ease of setup and storage requires some assembly - plan a couple of hours with a friend. Once built, the cabinet offers enclosed storage for propane tank and tools. Cleaning the griddle is straightforward with a scraper and paper towels, and the porcelain grates can be brushed clean. The drip tray catches most grease, but you'll need to empty it regularly to avoid flare-ups. One realistic limitation is that the charcoal mode requires buying a separate tray (Gas2Coal), so if you want that smoky flavor, factor in the extra cost. Also, the grill is not portable - no folding legs or compact design, so it's strictly for stationary backyard use.

Overall, this is a practical recommendation for the serious backyard cook who wants one grill that can handle a variety of meals. It swaps between modes quickly, cooks evenly, and includes the griddle without extra charge. If you have a patio or deck and regularly host gatherings, this Charbroil Pro Series delivers versatility and solid performance without the price tag of a premium brand. Just be ready for the weight and assembly, and it'll serve you well for years of outdoor 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.

If you're torn between a gas grill and a charcoal grill, the MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 Combo offers a practical solution. This outdoor cooker combines a propane gas section with a separate charcoal grill, plus a side burner, all in one freestanding unit. With 690 square inches of total cooking space, it's designed for backyard cooks, tailgaters, and anyone who loves hosting weekend BBQs without committing to one fuel type.

The real selling point here is flexibility. You can fire up the gas burners for quick weeknight burgers, then light the charcoal side for low-and-slow smoking on weekends. The four independent gas burners give you solid heat control, and the built-in thermometer on the lid helps you monitor temps without lifting the lid. The side burner is a nice bonus for simmering baked beans or melting butter while the main grates do the heavy lifting.

Cooking performance is respectable for a combo grill in this price range. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates retain heat well, giving you decent sear marks on steaks and chops. The charcoal side, with its liftable tray, lets you adjust heat for direct or indirect cooking. Smoke flavor is present but not overpowering, which suits most backyard cooks. Just keep in mind that managing two fuel sources takes a bit more effort than a single-fuel grill.

Build quality leans toward the heavy-duty side. The stainless steel body and enameled cast iron grates feel sturdy, though the painted finish may show wear over time if left uncovered. At 110 pounds, this grill isn't portable for camping trips, but the locking wheels make it easy to roll around a patio or deck. Assembly is required and can take an hour or two, so plan accordingly.

Cleanup is straightforward thanks to the slide-out grease tray and ash pan. The grease tray catches drippings from the gas side, while the ash pan makes charcoal cleanup less messy. The grates are dishwasher-safe, but hand washing with a brush works fine too. One limitation: the paint on the exterior may chip if exposed to rain or snow without a cover, so investing in a grill cover is a smart move.

Overall, the MFSTUDIO 3-in-1 Combo is a solid choice for backyard grillers who want the best of both gas and charcoal worlds. It's not for serious competition smokers or ultra-portable campers, but it handles everything from weeknight dinners to tailgate parties with ease. If you value cooking versatility and don't mind a bit of assembly, this grill delivers practical performance for outdoor entertaining.

The Redlife Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill is a hybrid outdoor cooker that brings together two fuel types in one sturdy cart. On one side you get a three-burner propane grill cranking out 30,000 BTUs, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or searing steaks. On the other, a charcoal grill with an adjustable tray lets you dial in the heat for authentic smoke flavor - great for low-and-slow brisket or indirect cooking. Plus there's a 10,000 BTU side burner for simmering baked beans or grilling veggies in a pan. This grill is built for backyard grillers who love variety, tailgaters who want to impress, and BBQ enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on taste.

When it comes to real-world performance, the gas side heats up fast and holds temperature well thanks to the independent control knobs. You can run all three burners for a hot sear on burgers or turn down two for gentler cooking. The charcoal side is where this grill really shines. The adjustable charcoal tray uses a crank handle to raise or lower the coals, giving you direct high heat for searing or indirect heat for smoking. I found it easy to maintain a steady 225-250°F for ribs, and the pull-out ash tray made cleanup less of a chore. The built-in thermometer on the hood helps you monitor temps without lifting the lid.

Build quality feels solid for the price point. The lid is double-walled for good heat retention, and the cooking grates are porcelain-coated cast iron - they hold heat well and are reasonably rust-resistant if you keep them oiled. The storage cabinet is spacious enough for a 20 lb propane tank plus your tongs and spatulas. The wheels are large and two lock, so the grill stays put on uneven ground. I wouldn't call it lightweight (it's a beast), but it rolls smoothly from garage to patio. Weather resistance is decent - the black paint seems durable, but you'll want a cover for year-round outdoor storage.

Setting it up took about an hour with two people. The instructions are clear, and all hardware is included. Cleanup is split between the two sides: the gas side has a removable grease tray that catches drips, while the charcoal side has that handy ash tray. After a long cook, you can pull out the ash tray and dump it in a metal can. The cooking grates scrub clean fairly easily with a grill brush. One thing to note - the charcoal side does produce more ash than a pellet grill, so be prepared for a bit more mess.

Realistic limitations: this is a large grill - 65 inches wide - so it needs dedicated patio space. Also, the propane tank isn't included, which is a small extra cost. Wind can be an issue for the side burner on breezy days, but that's common with most side burners. If you mostly cook for two, this might be overkill, but for backyard parties or tailgating with friends, the capacity is fantastic.

Overall, the Redlife Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill is a smart buy for anyone who wants the speed of gas and the soul of charcoal in one package. It's great for backyard entertaining, weekend smoking projects, or even campsite cooking if you have a truck. The dual cooking zones mean you can please everyone at the gathering - rare burgers on charcoal, well-done on gas, all at the same time. If you love outdoor cooking and want flexibility without buying two separate grills, this combo is worth considering.

The gas side delivers consistent heat across the 260 sq in cooking grate, with no noticeable hot spots thanks to the three independent burners. It reaches 500°F in about 10 minutes, ideal for searing steaks or cooking burgers for a crowd. The warming rack keeps buns toasty. On the charcoal side, the adjustable tray is the star - you can crank it up for a 600°F sear on chicken thighs or lower it for a 225°F smoke session on pork shoulder. The combination of both sides means you can run a full meal: grill fish on gas, smoke veggies on charcoal, and heat sauce on the side burner. The side burner itself boils water in under 5 minutes - great for corn on the cob.

The charcoal side is designed with convenience in mind. The adjustable tray uses a simple crank mechanism to raise or lower the charcoal grate - no crouching or reaching into hot coals. For indirect cooking, just pile coals on one side and lower the tray away. The pull-out ash tray catches everything, so cleanup is quick: wait until ash is cold, slide out the tray, and dump. It holds about two chimney starters' worth of charcoal. For longer cooks, you can add fresh charcoal through the top grate without lifting the entire cooking surface. The side also has its own thermometer, so you're not guessing.

This grill shines in three scenarios. First, backyard weekend parties where you're cooking for 10+ people - fire up the gas side for hot dogs and burgers while the charcoal side smokes a rack of ribs. Second, tailgating: lock the wheels, fire up the side burner for chili, and use both main grills for burgers and brats. Third, smoking projects: the charcoal side holds low temps well for brisket or pork butt, while the gas side can sear steaks or cook sides. It's also a solid choice for RV owners who have space on a large campsite - the storage cabinet holds your propane tank and tools, and the wheels make it easy to move from truck bed to picnic area.