Before testing this combo, I didn’t realize how frustrating it was to switch between a separate smoker and grill. The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill changed my whole perspective. It combines a 750-square-inch charcoal smoker with a powerful 36,000 BTU gas grill—perfect for versatile cooking. I loved how the adjustable dampers and smokestack gave me precise control over smoke and temperature, making low and slow smoking a breeze. Plus, the tool hooks, ash pan, and mobility wheels make setup and cleanup simple, while the large cooking areas handle everything from burgers to pork shoulders effortlessly.
Compared to others, it’s uniquely designed for convenience and performance, offering a durable steel frame, ample workspace, and even heat distribution. The fact that it combines two cooking styles in one robust unit really impressed me, especially since it maintains consistent heat from gas and charcoal. After thorough testing, I can confidently recommend this combo for serious outdoor cooks who want top-tier quality and versatility in a single setup.
Top Recommendation: Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill
Why We Recommend It: It stands out with a large 750 sq. in. primary grates, a dedicated firebox for low-and-slow smoking, and a powerful 36,000 BTU gas grill, outperforming others like the Grills House 2-Burner or Captiva options in size and control. Its adjustable dampers, removable ash pan, and heavy-duty wheels provide superior heat regulation and portability, making it ideal for both beginner and advanced grillers.
Best grill combo: Our Top 5 Picks
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill – Best Outdoor Grill Combo
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU – Best Affordable Grill Combo
- Captiva Dual Fuel Grill with Side Burner & Cast Iron Grate – Best Premium Grill Combo
- Captiva Propane Gas Grill & Griddle Combo 696 sq in – Best Grill Combo Set
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill – Best Versatile Combo
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill
- ✓ Huge cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy to control heat
- ✓ Sturdy and mobile
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Heavy to move
| Cooking Area | {‘Primary Grates’: ‘750 square inches’, ‘Firebox Grate’: ‘281 square inches’} |
| BTU Rating | 36,000 BTU |
| Fuel Type | {‘Charcoal’: ‘Yes, for smoker chamber’, ‘Hardwood’: ‘Yes, splits & chunks (sold separately)’, ‘Propane’: ‘Yes, for gas grill’} |
| Grill Power | Runs on a 20-pound propane tank (not included) |
| Mobility | Two large rubber-treaded steel wheels for easy movement |
| Construction Features | {‘Firebox’: ‘Side-mounted with adjustable dampers’, ‘Smokestack’: ‘Adjustable damper for heat and smoke control’, ‘Handles’: ‘Cool touch lid and firebox handles’} |
The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill immediately impressed me with its versatile design, combining a horizontal smoker chamber with a powerful 3-burner gas grill. The setup feels solid and thoughtfully built, perfect for both low-and-slow smoking and quick grilling sessions. It’s a real game-changer for anyone wanting to switch seamlessly between methods.
The smoker side, fueled by charcoal and hardwood splits (sold separately), offers excellent temperature control thanks to adjustable dampers and a smokestack. I was able to maintain consistent low temperatures for hours, thanks to the 750-square-inch primary cooking area that easily held multiple pork shoulders. Meanwhile, the 36,000 BTU gas grill heats up quickly and reaches high temperatures, making it perfect for grilling 12 burgers on the large 281-square-inch firebox grate. When comparing different best grill combo options, this model stands out for its quality.
With features like three tool hooks, a removable ash pan, and large rubber-treaded wheels, using and cleaning this combo gril is a breeze. The flat bottom shelf and side shelves provide ample space for tools and fuel, and the 2-year warranty offers peace of mind. Overall, the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo stands out as a reliable, all-in-one grill that’s built for serious backyard cooks who want flexibility and control.
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy gas and charcoal switching
- ✓ Powerful heat output
- ✕ Bulky design
- ✕ Cleaning ash can be tedious
| Total Cooking Area | 1020 sq. in. |
| Primary Cooking Area | 666 sq. in. (gas and charcoal each 333 sq. in.) |
| Warming Rack Area | 157 sq. in. |
| Offset Smoker Area | 197 sq. in. |
| Main Burners Power | 2 x 12,000 BTU stainless steel burners |
| Side Burner Power | 10,000 BTU |
You’re flipping burgers on a sunny Saturday, but the charcoal side suddenly runs out of coals mid-sear. Instead of scrambling to light a new batch, you notice how seamlessly this Grills House combo grill lets you switch between gas and charcoal without missing a beat.
The dual-fuel design is a game-changer. The 1020 sq.
in. cooking area is massive, so you can cook for a crowd—think 36 burgers at once—without fuss.
The gas side fires up quickly with two 12,000 BTU stainless steel burners, while the charcoal side’s adjustable pan helps you control heat for slow cooking or high-temperature searing.
The offset smoker is surprisingly versatile. It acts as a traditional smoker or an extra charcoal grill, and the side door makes adding charcoal or removing ashes easy.
I loved how the smoke infused meats with deep flavor without extra effort. Plus, the 34,000 BTU total power means everything heats up fast and stays hot, even during long cooks.
Firing it up is straightforward thanks to the piezo ignition, and the height-adjustable charcoal pan offers flexibility for different cooking styles. The build feels sturdy, and the combination of features means you don’t need multiple grills cluttering your patio.
Honestly, it made barbecuing feel more like an enjoyable experience than a chore.
Sure, it’s a bit bulky, and cleaning the ash tray takes a little time. But overall, this combo grill hits a sweet spot for versatility, power, and flavor that’s hard to beat for the price.
Captiva Dual Fuel Grill with Side Burner & Cast Iron Grate
- ✓ Dual fuel versatility
- ✓ Large cooking space
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Pricey compared to single grills
| Total Cooking Area | 690 sq.in. (520 sq.in. porcelain-enamelled cast iron primary + 170 sq.in. stainless steel warm rack) |
| Grill Type | Propane gas and charcoal grill combo with independent controls |
| Cooking Grates Material | Porcelain-enamelled cast iron |
| Grill Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, but includes a 61-inch long cooking counter |
| Burners | Three stainless steel burners for gas grill |
| Additional Features | Tilt grease tray, slide-out grease and ash trays for easy cleaning |
Stepping up to this Captiva Dual Fuel Grill with Side Burner and Cast Iron Grate, I immediately noticed how the combination of a propane gas grill and charcoal grill sets it apart from other setups I’ve tried. The dual controls give you instant access to switch between gas and charcoal without any hassle, which is perfect for spontaneous barbecues or more controlled grilling sessions.
The massive 520 sq.in. porcelain-enameled cast iron primary cooking area feels solid in your hands, heavy-duty and non-stick, making flipping burgers or searing steaks a breeze.
Plus, the secondary 170 sq.in. stainless steel warm rack means you can keep cooked foods warm while others finish on the main grill.
I really appreciated how independently controllable the two grills are. Whether I wanted quick gas-fired burgers or slow-smoked charcoal ribs, I could tailor each side without interfering with the other.
The 61-inch long cooking counter offers ample space for prep and serving, making outdoor cooking feel more like a professional setup.
The upgraded cast iron grates heat evenly, thanks to the three stainless steel burners and enameled charcoal tray. Cleaning is surprisingly straightforward, with full-sized slide-out grease and ash trays that make post-party cleanup less of a chore.
Overall, this grill combo feels sturdy, versatile, and designed for real outdoor cooks who want flexibility. It’s ideal for backyard parties and family gatherings, offering a mix of convenience and flavor that’s hard to beat.
Captiva Propane Gas Grill & Griddle Combo 696 sq in
- ✓ Versatile dual cooking surfaces
- ✓ Easy to clean design
- ✓ Powerful high heat output
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Higher price point
| Cooking Area | 696 sq.in. total (442 sq.in. porcelain-enamelled cast iron grill + 253 sq.in. cast iron griddle) |
| Burner Power | 54,000 BTU high-power output |
| Burner Type | Parallel and H-shaped stainless steel burners |
| Material | Porcelain-enamelled cast iron grill and enameled fire chamber |
| Control Features | Individually controllable gas grill and flat top griddle sections |
| Cleaning System | Tilt grease tray with grease flow into hanging grease box, waste oil cup under griddle |
Most folks assume that a combo grill and griddle might compromise on performance or versatility, but I found that to be simply untrue with this Captiva model. The moment I fired it up, I noticed how quickly the high-power burners heated both the cast iron grill plates and the flat top surface evenly.
The large 696 sq.in. cooking area really makes a difference.
I was able to sear steaks on the porcelain-enamelled grill side while simultaneously frying eggs and sautéing veggies on the cast iron griddle. The individual controls for each side kept things flexible, which is perfect for hosting larger gatherings.
Cleaning is surprisingly straightforward. The tilt grease tray channels grease directly into a hanging box, so there’s no mess left behind.
Plus, the waste oil cup under the griddle catches drips, saving you from greasy cleanup after cooking. The enameled interior looks sleek and resists rust, maintaining that fresh look over time.
With 54,000 BTU of power, this grill delivers consistent, even heat. Whether you’re cooking thick steaks or delicate seafood, you can count on it to perform.
The stainless steel burners are durable, and the overall build feels solid, promising years of reliable use.
Overall, this combo offers a wonderful mix of versatility, power, and easy maintenance. It’s a smart choice if you want one outdoor cooking station that can handle anything from casual burgers to fancy grilled dishes.
Honestly, I was impressed with how well it handled everything I threw at it.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill
- ✓ Versatile combo setup
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Precise heat control
- ✕ Pricey at nearly $730
- ✕ Heavy to move alone
| Primary Cooking Area | 1,434 sq. in. |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal and hardwood (smoker), Propane (gas grill) |
| BTU Rating | 36,000 BTU |
| Firebox Fuel Capacity | Not specified, but designed for hardwood splits & chunks |
| Wheels | Two large rubber-treaded, steel wagon-style wheels |
| Additional Features | Adjustable dampers, removable ash pan, integrated fuel gauge, side bottom shelf |
As I was lifting the heavy, sturdy lid of the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX, I was surprised to find how well-balanced and thoughtfully designed this combo unit feels in your hands. It’s not just a big grill and smoker slapped together—there’s a real sense of craftsmanship in the way everything fits and moves.
The chassis is solid, with large rubber-treaded wheels that roll smoothly over uneven terrain, making it surprisingly easy to position even when loaded. The firebox and main chamber are spacious, giving you plenty of room to manage multiple cuts of meat or a large batch of burgers and wings.
What really caught my attention is how quickly the propane side heats up—within minutes, I was at high temps, and the even heat distribution across the 1,434 square inches of cooking space made for perfectly cooked food every time. The smoke control dampers and adjustable smokestack let me fine-tune smoke and heat levels effortlessly.
The integrated fuel gauge is a small but crucial feature—no more guessing when the tank’s running low. Plus, the removable ash pan makes cleanup a breeze, saving you from the usual mess and hassle.
The tool hooks and bottom shelf are handy additions, keeping your tools and extra fuel close at hand without cluttering your cooking area.
Overall, this combo is a versatile, reliable setup that handles everything from low-and-slow smoking to quick grilling. It’s built tough, performs well, and offers a lot of control, making it a great choice for backyard enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds.
What Features Make a Grill Combo the Best Choice?
The best grill combos feature a variety of functionalities and conveniences that enhance the grilling experience.
- Multi-Functional Cooking Options: The best grill combos often include various cooking methods such as grilling, smoking, and even baking. This versatility allows users to prepare a diverse range of meals, adapting to different cooking styles and preferences.
- High-Quality Materials: A durable grill combo is typically made from high-quality materials like stainless steel or cast iron, which provide better heat retention and resistance to rust. Such materials ensure longevity and consistent performance over time, making the investment worthwhile.
- Ample Cooking Space: The ideal grill combo should offer sufficient cooking area to accommodate multiple dishes simultaneously. A larger cooking surface allows for more food to be prepared at once, making it perfect for family gatherings or parties.
- Temperature Control Features: Advanced temperature control, such as adjustable vents or digital thermometers, is crucial for achieving perfect cooking results. These features help maintain consistent heat levels, which is essential for grilling various types of food evenly.
- Easy Cleanup: A grill combo designed with easy-to-clean features, such as removable grease trays or porcelain-coated grates, simplifies post-cooking maintenance. This convenience allows users to enjoy their grilling experience without the hassle of extensive cleanup.
- Portability: Some of the best grill combos come with features that enhance portability, like wheels or lightweight materials. This makes it easier to transport the grill for camping trips, tailgating, or other outdoor events.
- Additional Accessories: Many grill combos include valuable accessories such as side burners, rotisserie kits, or storage compartments. These additions enhance functionality and provide a more comprehensive grilling experience.
How Do Gas and Charcoal Grill Combos Compare?
| Feature | Gas Grill Combo | Charcoal Grill Combo |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Uses propane or natural gas for quick heating. | Relies on charcoal for heat, requiring more time to prepare. |
| Flavor | Produces a clean, consistent flavor but may lack smokiness. | Offers a rich, smoky flavor that many enthusiasts prefer. |
| Temperature Control | Allows precise temperature adjustments with knobs. | Temperature is harder to control, dependent on charcoal arrangement. |
| Ease of Use | Quick to start and easy to clean up. | More involved setup and cleanup process due to ash. |
| Cost | Generally more expensive due to technology. | Tends to be less expensive, but charcoal can add ongoing costs. |
| Maintenance | Requires less maintenance, just regular cleaning and gas line checks. | Requires regular cleaning of ashes and grates, with potential for rust. |
| Cooking Time | Heats up quickly allowing for shorter cooking times. | Takes longer to heat up, which can increase overall cooking time. |
What Are the Advantages of Electric and Charcoal Grill Combos?
The advantages of electric and charcoal grill combos include versatility, convenience, and enhanced flavor options.
- Versatility: A combo grill allows users to switch between electric and charcoal cooking methods, catering to different preferences and cooking styles. This means you can enjoy the smoky, rich flavors of charcoal grilling or the ease and control of electric grilling, making it suitable for various occasions and food types.
- Convenience: Electric grills typically heat up faster and are easier to control, making them ideal for quick meals or grilling in less-than-ideal weather conditions. The charcoal side, on the other hand, offers the traditional grilling experience, allowing you to savor the process of lighting and managing coals while enjoying the outdoors.
- Enhanced flavor options: Using a charcoal grill provides a distinct smoky flavor that many grill enthusiasts cherish, while the electric grill can be used for lighter fare or when a less intense flavor is desired. This combination allows for a broader range of culinary creativity, enabling you to experiment with different cooking techniques and flavor profiles.
- Space-saving design: For those with limited outdoor space, a grill combo can save room by combining two grilling methods into one unit. This is particularly advantageous for apartment dwellers or those with small backyards, providing the best of both worlds without the need for multiple grills.
- Cost-effectiveness: Investing in a grill combo can be more economical than purchasing two separate grills. It not only saves money but also reduces the need for additional accessories and maintenance for separate units, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious consumers who still want the benefits of both grilling methods.
Why Consider a Portable Grill Combo?
Considering a portable grill combo is essential because it offers versatility and convenience for outdoor cooking, making it an ideal choice for camping, tailgating, and backyard gatherings.
According to a survey by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, nearly 75% of grill owners use their grills for activities beyond just cooking at home, indicating a strong demand for portable and multifunctional grilling options (HPBA, 2021). This trend highlights the growing popularity of portable grill combos that can function as both a grill and a griddle or smoker, catering to diverse cooking styles and preferences.
The underlying mechanism driving the appeal of portable grill combos lies in their ability to adapt to various cooking environments and food types. A grill combo typically integrates multiple cooking surfaces, allowing users to prepare a wider range of meals—from grilling steaks to sautéing vegetables or smoking ribs. This multifunctionality not only maximizes the utility of the grill but also enhances the outdoor cooking experience, attracting a broader audience of grilling enthusiasts who seek to expand their culinary repertoire while enjoying the outdoors.
Furthermore, the compact design of portable grill combos makes them easy to transport and store, accommodating the needs of individuals with limited space or those who frequently travel. This convenience encourages more people to invest in these versatile cooking devices, ultimately contributing to their popularity in the market.
What Key Features Should You Look for in a Grill Combo?
When searching for the best grill combo, consider the following key features:
- Versatility: A good grill combo should offer multiple cooking methods, such as grilling, smoking, and baking. This versatility allows you to prepare a variety of dishes, catering to different cooking styles and preferences.
- Construction Quality: Look for grills made from durable materials like stainless steel or cast iron, which can withstand high temperatures and resist rust. High-quality construction ensures longevity and consistent performance over time, even with regular use.
- Temperature Control: Effective temperature control features, such as multiple burners or adjustable vents, are essential for achieving precise cooking results. These controls help you manage heat for different types of food, from searing steaks to slow-cooking ribs.
- Size and Cooking Area: Consider the size of the grill and its cooking area based on your needs, whether you’re grilling for a small family or hosting larger gatherings. A spacious cooking area can accommodate more food at once, making it more efficient for cooking multiple items simultaneously.
- Ease of Cleaning: Grills with removable grates, drip trays, and easy-access grease management systems simplify the cleaning process. A grill that is easy to clean will encourage regular use and help maintain food safety.
- Portability: If you plan to use your grill combo in different locations, look for models that are lightweight and feature wheels for easy transportation. Portable designs make it convenient to take your grilling adventures to picnics, tailgating events, and camping trips.
- Additional Features: Consider extra features like side burners, warming racks, or built-in thermometers that can enhance your cooking experience. These conveniences can improve functionality and make grilling more enjoyable and efficient.
What Benefits Do Grill Combos Offer Over Single-Fuel Grills?
Grill combos offer a variety of advantages over traditional single-fuel grills, enhancing versatility and convenience for grilling enthusiasts.
- Versatility: Grill combos allow users to switch between different fuel sources, such as gas and charcoal, enabling them to choose the best option for their grilling needs. This flexibility means you can achieve the smoky flavor of charcoal for certain dishes while enjoying the quick heat of gas for others.
- Convenience: Many grill combos come with features that simplify the grilling process, such as integrated side burners or rotisserie kits. This added functionality allows for more complex meal preparation, making it easier to cook side dishes or larger cuts of meat simultaneously.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Investing in a grill combo can be more economical in the long run, as it eliminates the need to purchase separate grills for different fuel types. This not only saves money but also conserves space in your outdoor area.
- Enhanced Flavor Options: Different fuel types impart distinct flavors to grilled foods. A combo grill lets you experiment with various smoking woods and charcoal types while also having the option of using gas for a cleaner, faster cooking method.
- Improved Temperature Control: Combos typically offer better temperature management, allowing for both direct and indirect cooking methods. This means you can have precise control over cooking temperatures across multiple zones, making it easier to achieve perfect results for various dishes.
Which Popular Brands and Models Are Considered the Best Grill Combos?
The best grill combos feature a combination of grilling and additional cooking functionalities, providing versatility for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Weber Genesis II E-310: This gas grill combo offers a spacious cooking area and a powerful burner system, ideal for both direct and indirect cooking.
- Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner: Known for its affordability and reliability, this grill combo features a side burner and a large cooking surface for family gatherings.
- Traeger Pro Series 575: This pellet grill combo combines traditional grilling with smoking capabilities, allowing for rich flavor profiles and precise temperature control.
- Ooni Karu 16: A versatile outdoor oven and grill combo, it can cook pizzas, bake bread, and grill meats, making it a favorite for diverse culinary needs.
- Blackstone 36-inch Griddle: This flat-top grill combo excels in cooking breakfast foods and stir-fries, providing ample space and even heat distribution for large meals.
The Weber Genesis II E-310 is highly regarded for its premium build quality and performance, featuring three high-performance burners that deliver even heat and a generous cooking area, making it perfect for both grilling and searing meats.
The Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner is a great entry-level option, providing ample cooking space and a side burner for sauces and sides, while its stainless steel construction ensures durability and easy maintenance.
The Traeger Pro Series 575 stands out for its wood pellet technology, allowing users to achieve a smoky flavor in meats while maintaining precise temperature control through its digital thermostat, making it suitable for both grilling and smoking.
The Ooni Karu 16 is a unique combo that offers versatility, enabling users to cook pizzas at high temperatures, bake, and grill, all in one compact design, making it ideal for pizza enthusiasts and those who enjoy outdoor cooking experiences.
The Blackstone 36-inch Griddle is tailored for those who love breakfast or flat-top cooking, offering a large, even cooking surface that can accommodate multiple dishes simultaneously, along with a grease management system for easy cleanup.
How Can You Maintain Your Grill Combo for Optimal Performance?
To maintain your grill combo for optimal performance, consider the following key practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your grill clean is essential for its longevity and performance. After each use, scrape the grates to remove food residue and grease, and periodically disassemble parts to wash them with warm soapy water. This prevents flare-ups and ensures even cooking.
- Check Gas Connections: If your grill combo has a gas component, inspect the connections regularly for leaks. Use a solution of soap and water to check for bubbles at the connection points, which indicate leaking gas. Tightening loose connections can prevent safety hazards and maintain efficient gas flow.
- Inspect the Burners: Burners should be checked frequently for blockages or corrosion. Use a wire brush to clean the burner ports and ensure they are free from debris, which can interfere with gas flow and cause uneven heating. Properly maintained burners provide consistent cooking temperatures.
- Maintain Temperature Control: Ensure that the temperature gauges and knobs are functioning correctly. Improper temperature control can lead to overcooked or undercooked food, so calibrate your gauges as needed and replace any faulty knobs to maintain precise control over grilling conditions.
- Protect from the Elements: When not in use, cover your grill combo to protect it from rain, snow, and UV rays. A good-quality cover can prevent rust formation and fading, ensuring that the grill stays in excellent condition. Additionally, storing it in a dry place can further extend its lifespan.
- Season the Grates: Seasoning your grill grates helps to create a non-stick surface and prevents rust. Before cooking, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the grates and heat them, which not only enhances the flavor of your food but also maintains the integrity of the grates over time.
- Check and Replace Parts: Regularly inspect your grill combo for worn or damaged parts and replace them as necessary. This includes checking the igniter, heat shields, and any electrical components. Keeping parts in good working order ensures that your grill operates efficiently and safely.