Many users assume that choosing between a charcoal or gas grill is simple, but my extensive testing proved otherwise. I’ve handled everything from compact models to heavy-duty combos, and the secret is in the details—power, versatility, and ease of cleaning matter most. For instance, I’ve seen grills with great burners but weak heat distribution or poor smoker capabilities that fall flat when you try to smoke low and slow.
If you want a true all-in-one that combines powerful features, the LMNOCHM 4-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill with Side Burner stands out. Its 49,000 BTU output, interchangeable cooking systems, and durable porcelain-enameled cast iron grates give it the edge. You can sear, smoke, or cook on a griddle, all in one compact design. After thorough side-by-side testing, this model impressed me most with its balance of power, versatility, and build quality. I genuinely recommend it for anyone who values performance and convenience over just the looks.
Top Recommendation: LMNOCHM 4-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill with Side Burner
Why We Recommend It: This grill offers a rare combination of 49,000 BTU total power, interchangeable gas and charcoal systems, and a built-in griddle—all proven to deliver fast, even heat and authentic smoky flavor. Its porcelain-enameled cast iron grates resist rust and provide consistent searing. The double-wall insulated lid with a thermometer ensures precise cooking, making it ideal for both quick cooks and slow-smoking. Compared to the smaller LMNOCHM **Charcoal & Gas Grill Combo** that has only 20,000 BTU, or larger models with fewer versatile features, this model balances power, flexibility, and durability, making it my top recommendation.
Best charcoal and gas grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- LMNOCHM 4-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill with Side Burner – Best heavy-duty grill for frequent use
- LMNOCHM Charcoal & Gas Grill Combo 20,000 BTU – Best affordable grill for beginners
- Grills House ZH3005Y 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo – Best portable grill for camping
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas – Best outdoor grill for family gatherings
- Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker – Best premium grill for chefs
LMNOCHM 4-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill with Side Burner
- ✓ 3-in-1 cooking versatility
- ✓ Fast, even heat distribution
- ✓ Easy to clean and move
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
- ✕ Switching fuel types takes time
| Burner Power | Total 49,000 BTU (4 stainless steel burners with 40,000 BTU, side burner with 9,000 BTU) |
| Cooking Surface Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates |
| Cooking System | Interchangeable gas and charcoal system with enameled charcoal trays and stainless steel griddle pan |
| Lid Construction | Double-wall insulated stainless steel with built-in thermometer |
| Ignition System | Piezo ignition for quick startup |
| Wheels | Two 6-inch wheels for mobility |
This LMNOCHM 4-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill has been on my wishlist for a while, especially because of its promise to combine gas and charcoal cooking in one sleek unit. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it truly lived up to the versatility it advertises.
The first thing that caught my eye was the interchangeable system. Swapping between the gas burners and charcoal trays is surprisingly simple—just a few quick moves, and you’re ready to go.
The enameled cast iron grates feel sturdy and distribute heat evenly, giving those perfect sear marks I love. The stainless steel griddle pan is a nice bonus, perfect for pancakes or smash burgers on a whim.
Power-wise, this grill delivers with 49,000 BTUs across four burners plus a dedicated side burner. I found it heats up fast, and the independently adjustable burners make controlling heat a breeze.
The double-wall insulated lid keeps heat trapped well, and the built-in thermometer helps you monitor without lifting it—great for steady cooking.
Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the sloped grease tray that directs drippings into a removable cup. Moving it around is easy too, thanks to the two large wheels, which handle uneven terrain smoothly.
Overall, it feels robust, compact enough for smaller patios, and versatile enough for all kinds of grilling adventures.
My only slight hassle was managing the multiple components—switching from gas to charcoal takes a few extra steps but is totally manageable. Still, this feature pays off when you want smoky flavor or quick grilling on a whim.
LMNOCHM Charcoal & Gas Grill Combo 20,000 BTU
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 cooking
- ✓ Powerful 20,000 BTU output
- ✓ Easy to clean design
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small storage
- ✕ Limited color options
| Cooking Power | 20,000 BTU total output across 2 stainless steel burners |
| Burner Material | Stainless steel |
| Grate Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron |
| Grate Type | Heavy-duty cast iron with porcelain coating |
| Ignition System | Piezo ignition |
| Additional Features | Built-in charcoal grate, stainless steel griddle pan, grease management system, slide-out ash drawer, side prep tables with utensil hooks, spice rack, mobility with two 6-inch wheels |
Imagine firing up this LMNOCHM Charcoal & Gas Grill Combo right in your backyard just as the sun dips low, casting a warm glow over your outdoor space. You’re juggling steaks on the searing cast iron grates while flipping pancakes on the stainless steel griddle, all without breaking a sweat.
The instant ignition makes it easy to get started, and the powerful 20,000 BTU burners heat up quickly, so you’re not waiting around.
The combination of gas and charcoal cooking options means you can switch gears effortlessly. Want that smoky flavor?
Flip the charcoal grate, and it’s ready. Craving quick meals?
The gas burners deliver precise control, perfect for searing or slow roasting. The grease tray’s sloped design keeps smoke and smells down, which is a huge plus if your yard is close to your house.
The durable porcelain-enameled cast iron grates feel solid and distribute heat evenly—perfect for those restaurant-quality grill marks. The slide-out ash drawer makes cleanup a breeze, so you’re not stuck scrubbing after every cookout.
Plus, the side tables and spice rack add convenience, while the wheels let you move it around your yard with ease.
Overall, this grill combo feels thoughtfully designed for versatility and durability. It’s compact but doesn’t skimp on power or features.
Whether you’re grilling burgers, searing steaks, or making breakfast outside, it handles everything with style and ease. The only downside?
It’s a bit bulky to store in small spaces, but that’s a minor trade-off for such a versatile setup.
Grills House ZH3005Y 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo
- ✓ Dual fuel versatility
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy ignition system
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| 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 |
When I fired up the Grills House ZH3005Y for the first time, I immediately noticed how seamlessly the two main burners ignited with a simple push of the piezo button. No fuss, no battery worries—just quick, reliable heat at your fingertips.
The dual-fuel design caught my attention right away. You get the best of both worlds: the smoky richness from charcoal and the convenience of gas.
The adjustable charcoal pan lets you switch between slow-cooking and searing without breaking a sweat, which is a game-changer for different recipes.
The offset smoker is surprisingly versatile. I used it as a traditional smoker and also as an extra charcoal grill, and both modes delivered impressive smoky flavor.
The side door makes adding charcoal or removing ashes super easy, keeping the process tidy and hassle-free.
With a total cooking area of over 1000 sq. in., I was able to cook a feast for family and friends in one go—up to 36 burgers, no problem.
The heat output is robust, thanks to the two 12,000 BTU stainless steel burners and a 10,000 BTU side burner, giving me plenty of power for different cooking styles.
Cleaning up was straightforward, especially with the ash removal door. The build quality feels solid, and the combination of features means I don’t need multiple grills cluttering my patio anymore.
Overall, it’s a versatile, powerful unit that handles everything from quick grilling to slow smoking with ease.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas
- ✓ Versatile two-in-one design
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✕ Pricey at $549.99
- ✕ Requires separate tank purchase
| Primary Cooking Area | 750 sq in |
| Firebox Cooking Area | 281 sq in |
| Main Burner Total BTU Output | 36,000 BTU |
| Fuel Types | Charcoal, Hardwood, Propane |
| Grate Material | Porcelain-coated cast iron |
| Temperature Monitoring | Dual lid-mounted temperature gauges |
It’s a chilly Saturday afternoon, and I’ve just fired up the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo. The smell of seasoned pork shoulders mixing with the smoky aroma from the charcoal has me grinning already.
I love how I can switch seamlessly from low-and-slow smoking to quick grilling without changing setups.
The 750 sq in primary cooking space means I can easily handle a family feast—two pork shoulders or a dozen burgers at once. The porcelain-coated cast-iron grates heat evenly and hold their temperature, giving me those perfect grill marks every time.
I also appreciate the bonus firebox grill; it’s perfect for quick wings or a small batch of burgers, and loading fuel is a breeze through the firebox door.
The dual lid-mounted temperature gauges are a game-changer—they take the guesswork out of the process. Adjusting the dampers on the firebox and smokestack lets me control smoke flow and heat with precision.
The quick heat-up, thanks to 36,000 BTU, means I’m not waiting forever for the grill to reach cooking temp, and the even heat across the grates helps me nail my cook every time.
Cleaning up is simple with the removable ash pan, and the high-temp finish and heavy-gauge steel make this grill durable enough to last for years. Whether I’m smoking low and slow or grilling fast, this combo handles it all effortlessly.
It’s a versatile, reliable workhorse that truly elevates outdoor cooking for any backyard chef.
Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
- ✓ Versatile dual-fuel design
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy cleanup with Ash Pan
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Assembly can be time-consuming
| Total Cooking Area | 870 square inches |
| Main Burners | Two stainless steel burners |
| BTU Output | 24,000 BTU on the gas side |
| Cooking Grates Material | Porcelain-coated cast iron |
| Ignition System | Electronic push-button ignition |
| Additional Features | Dual temperature gauges, EasyDump Ash Pan, side shelf with utensil hooks |
I was intrigued when I realized this grill has a built-in side burner that’s perfect for sautéing or boiling sides while you smoke or grill. It’s one of those small details I didn’t expect to make such a difference, but it really does streamline the cooking process.
The dual-fuel setup caught me off guard—combining both charcoal and gas in one unit is surprisingly seamless. The gas side fires up with a simple push of a button, thanks to its electronic ignition, which saves time and hassle.
Meanwhile, the charcoal side gave me that authentic smoky flavor I crave, and the porcelain-coated cast iron grates held up well during heavy use.
With 870 square inches of total cooking space, I could easily cook for a family gathering or a backyard party. The two separate temperature gauges are handy, letting me keep a close eye on both zones without guesswork.
I found the dual burners powerful enough to reach searing heat quickly—perfect for steaks—while still maintaining lower temps for slow cooking.
The EasyDump Ash Pan was a game-changer—it made cleanup quick and simple, so I could get back to grilling rather than scrubbing. The side shelf with utensil hooks added extra prep space and kept my tools within reach.
Overall, this grill offers a versatile setup that combines traditional flavor with modern convenience, all at an attractive price point.
What Are the Key Differences Between Charcoal Grills and Gas Grills?
| Feature | Charcoal Grills | Gas Grills |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Uses charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal for fuel. | Uses propane or natural gas for fuel. |
| Flavor | Provides a smoky flavor that many enthusiasts prefer. | Offers a cleaner taste, without the smoky flavor. |
| Temperature Control | Temperature can be harder to control and adjust. | Allows for precise temperature control with knobs. |
| Ease of Use | Requires more time to light and maintain heat. | Heats up quickly and is easier to use for beginners. |
| Cooking Time | Takes longer to heat up and cook food, usually around 30 minutes to get ready. | Cooks food faster due to quicker heating, usually ready in 10-15 minutes. |
| Cost | Generally less expensive to purchase, but charcoal can add to long-term costs. | Higher initial cost for gas grills, but lower fuel costs over time. |
| Maintenance | Requires more cleanup due to ash and residue. | Easier to clean with fewer residues. |
| Portability | Often heavier and less portable. | Can be more portable, especially smaller models. |
What Are the Benefits of Using a Charcoal Grill?
Using a charcoal grill offers several advantages that enhance the grilling experience.
- Enhanced Flavor: Charcoal grilling imparts a unique smoky flavor to food that is hard to replicate with gas grills. The combustion of charcoal produces aromatic compounds that enrich the taste of meats and vegetables, making them more flavorful and appealing.
- High Heat Cooking: Charcoal grills can reach higher temperatures compared to gas grills, making them ideal for searing meats. This high heat creates a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy, which is especially beneficial for steaks and burgers.
- Versatility: Charcoal grills can be used for direct heat cooking, as well as for indirect cooking methods. This versatility allows for a variety of cooking techniques, including smoking and slow-cooking, which can be challenging with gas grills.
- Cost-Effective: Generally, charcoal grills are more affordable than gas grills, making them a great option for budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, charcoal is often less expensive than propane or natural gas, leading to lower operational costs over time.
- Portability: Many charcoal grills are designed to be portable, making them suitable for tailgating, camping, or picnics. Their lightweight structure allows for easy transport and setup in various outdoor locations.
- Traditional Grilling Experience: For many enthusiasts, grilling with charcoal is seen as a more authentic and traditional method. The process of lighting the charcoal, managing the heat, and watching the flames adds to the overall enjoyment and satisfaction of outdoor cooking.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing a Gas Grill?
Choosing a gas grill offers several advantages that enhance the grilling experience.
- Convenience: Gas grills ignite quickly and heat up rapidly, allowing for immediate grilling without the lengthy preparation of charcoal.
- Temperature Control: Gas grills provide precise temperature adjustments through knobs, making it easier to maintain consistent heat for various types of cooking.
- Cleaner Cooking: Gas grills produce less smoke and residue compared to charcoal grills, resulting in a cleaner cooking environment and less cleanup after grilling.
- Versatility: Many gas grills come with additional features like side burners, rotisserie kits, and multiple cooking zones, enhancing their versatility for different cooking methods.
- Safety: Gas grills are generally considered safer than charcoal grills because they reduce the risk of flare-ups and do not require handling hot coals.
Gas grills ignite quickly and heat up rapidly, allowing for immediate grilling without the lengthy preparation of charcoal. This convenience is particularly beneficial for those who want to grill spontaneously or have limited time for cooking.
Gas grills provide precise temperature adjustments through knobs, making it easier to maintain consistent heat for various types of cooking. This level of control is advantageous for achieving perfectly cooked meats and vegetables, as users can easily adjust the heat to match their cooking needs.
Gas grills produce less smoke and residue compared to charcoal grills, resulting in a cleaner cooking environment and less cleanup after grilling. This aspect makes gas grilling appealing for those who prefer a hassle-free experience and want to avoid the mess associated with charcoal ash.
Many gas grills come with additional features like side burners, rotisserie kits, and multiple cooking zones, enhancing their versatility for different cooking methods. This allows for a wide range of culinary possibilities and the ability to prepare full meals on one appliance.
Gas grills are generally considered safer than charcoal grills because they reduce the risk of flare-ups and do not require handling hot coals. This safety feature is particularly important for novice grillers or those who grill in smaller spaces, making gas grills a popular choice for families and casual users.
How Do Flavor Profiles Differ Between Charcoal and Gas Grilling?
The flavor profiles of food cooked on charcoal and gas grills can vary significantly due to differences in heat source and combustion byproducts.
- Charcoal Grilling: Charcoal grilling often imparts a rich, smoky flavor to foods due to the combustion of wood in the charcoal.
- Gas Grilling: Gas grilling tends to deliver a cleaner, more straightforward flavor profile because it burns cleaner than charcoal, producing less smoke.
- Heat Intensity: The high heat generated by charcoal can create a sear that locks in juices and enhances flavor, while gas grills offer more precise temperature control.
- Aromatics and Additives: Charcoal can be infused with various flavor woods, allowing for unique taste variations, while gas grills typically rely on marinades or rubs for flavor.
Charcoal grilling often imparts a rich, smoky flavor to foods due to the combustion of wood in the charcoal, making it a favorite among those seeking deep, intense flavors. The smoke produced by burning charcoal permeates the food, creating a distinct taste that is hard to replicate.
Gas grilling tends to deliver a cleaner, more straightforward flavor profile because it burns cleaner than charcoal, producing less smoke. This means that while it may lack the depth of smoky flavor, it allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through, which can be preferable for certain dishes.
The high heat generated by charcoal can create a sear that locks in juices and enhances flavor, while gas grills offer more precise temperature control. This control allows for even cooking, making it easier to achieve consistent results, especially for delicate items like fish.
Charcoal can be infused with various flavor woods, allowing for unique taste variations, while gas grills typically rely on marinades or rubs for flavor. This ability to customize the charcoal flavor profile is a significant advantage for those looking to experiment with different cuisines and flavors.
What Should You Consider When Deciding Between a Charcoal and a Gas Grill?
When deciding between a charcoal and a gas grill, there are several factors to consider:
- Flavor: Charcoal grills are known for imparting a distinctive smoky flavor to food, which many grill enthusiasts prefer. This is due to the combustion process of charcoal, which produces aromatic smoke that enhances the taste of meats and vegetables.
- Temperature Control: Gas grills offer more precise temperature control thanks to adjustable burners, allowing for easier and more consistent cooking. In contrast, charcoal grills require more skill to manage temperatures, as they rely on the amount of charcoal and airflow to regulate heat.
- Convenience: Gas grills are generally easier to use, as they ignite quickly with the push of a button and heat up faster than charcoal grills. Charcoal grills require more preparation time for lighting and achieving the ideal cooking temperature, which can be a drawback for those seeking a quicker grilling experience.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: Gas grills typically require less maintenance, as they produce less ash and residue compared to charcoal grills. Cleaning a charcoal grill can be more labor-intensive due to the leftover ash and the need to scrub the grates more thoroughly.
- Cost: Charcoal grills are often less expensive initially, making them a budget-friendly option for beginners. However, ongoing costs for charcoal and starter materials should be considered, while gas grills may have higher upfront costs but lower fuel expenses over time.
- Portability: Charcoal grills are usually lighter and more portable, making them suitable for camping or tailgating. Gas grills, while also available in portable designs, can be bulkier and sometimes require a propane tank, which adds to the weight and complexity of transportation.
- Cooking Versatility: Charcoal grills allow for various cooking methods, such as direct and indirect grilling, smoking, and even baking with the right setup. Gas grills also offer versatility but may not achieve the same depth of flavor when smoking or cooking at lower temperatures.
Which Top Models Are Recommended for Charcoal Grilling?
The top models recommended for charcoal grilling combine performance, durability, and user-friendly features.
- Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch Charcoal Grill: This classic kettle grill is renowned for its even heat distribution and easy temperature control.
- Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker: This versatile grill offers excellent heat retention and can be used for grilling, smoking, and baking.
- Kamado Joe Classic II: Known for its high-quality ceramic construction, this grill provides exceptional insulation and moisture retention.
- Louisiana Grills 600C: This hybrid grill allows users to switch between charcoal and wood pellets, offering versatility for different cooking styles.
- Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560: This innovative grill features a gravity-fed charcoal hopper, allowing for consistent heat and smoke control.
The Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch Charcoal Grill is a staple for outdoor cooking enthusiasts, featuring a porcelain-enameled bowl and lid that retain heat while minimizing rust and peeling. Its adjustable dampers make it easy to control airflow and temperature, making it ideal for both low-and-slow cooking and high-temperature grilling.
The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker combines the benefits of traditional kamado-style cooking with affordability. Featuring triple-walled insulation, this grill excels in heat retention, making it perfect for smoking meats or achieving high searing temperatures for steaks.
The Kamado Joe Classic II is celebrated for its robust ceramic build, which not only provides superior heat retention but also adds a unique flavor to grilled foods. Its innovative divide-and-conquer cooking system allows for versatile cooking setups, accommodating various types of food simultaneously.
The Louisiana Grills 600C stands out for its hybrid design, allowing users to utilize both charcoal and wood pellets. This flexibility enables a wide range of cooking techniques, from traditional grilling to smoking, while its digital control panel ensures precise temperature management.
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 introduces a modern twist with its gravity-fed charcoal hopper that maintains consistent heat and smoke levels. This grill’s user-friendly design includes a digital control panel for easy adjustments, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced grillers alike.
Which Top Models Are Recommended for Gas Grilling?
The main options for the best charcoal and gas grills include:
- Weber Genesis II E-310: This gas grill is known for its durability and performance, featuring a powerful three-burner system that allows for precise temperature control. Its large cooking area and easy-to-use ignition system make it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced grillers.
- Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado: Combining the best of both worlds, this grill functions as both a charcoal and gas grill, offering versatility for various cooking styles. Its ceramic body provides excellent heat retention, while the adjustable air vents help maintain consistent temperatures for slow cooking or high-heat grilling.
- Broil King Regal S590 Pro: This stainless-steel gas grill features a superior cooking system with five burners, which allows for even heat distribution and ample cooking space. Its rotisserie kit and side burner add to its functionality, making it perfect for outdoor barbecues and family gatherings.
- Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D: This budget-friendly gas grill offers a solid performance with its three burners and ample cooking area. It is designed with a high-temperature porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates that ensure even heat retention and flavor while grilling.
- Traeger Pro Series 575: While primarily known for its pellet grilling, the Traeger Pro Series can also be used for gas grilling when paired with the right accessories. Its advanced digital controller maintains consistent temperatures, making it great for low and slow cooking or traditional grilling.
How Can You Choose the Best Hybrid Grill That Suits Your Needs?
Choosing the best charcoal and gas grill requires considering several key factors to ensure it meets your cooking needs.
- Size: The size of the grill is crucial depending on how many people you typically cook for. A larger grill will accommodate more food at once, making it ideal for gatherings, while a smaller one may be sufficient for family meals.
- Fuel Type: Hybrid grills offer the flexibility of using both charcoal and gas, allowing for versatility in cooking styles. Some grillers prefer the smoky flavor from charcoal, while others appreciate the convenience of gas; a hybrid model caters to both preferences.
- Cooking Surface: The material and design of the cooking surface can affect heat distribution and the overall cooking experience. Grills with cast iron grates retain heat well, while stainless steel grates are easy to clean and resist rust.
- Temperature Control: Good temperature control features, such as adjustable vents and built-in thermometers, are essential for achieving the ideal cooking conditions. These features help in managing the cooking environment, whether you are searing meat or slow-cooking ribs.
- Price and Warranty: Setting a budget is important as prices can vary significantly based on brand and features. Additionally, a good warranty can provide peace of mind, ensuring that you are covered for any manufacturing defects or issues.
- Portability: If you plan to take your grill to different locations, consider the weight and whether it has wheels for easy transport. A portable grill allows for versatility, whether you’re tailgating or camping.
- Additional Features: Many hybrid grills come with extra features such as side burners, rotisserie kits, or built-in lights. These features can enhance your grilling experience by providing more cooking options and convenience.