8 Best Propane and Charcoal Grills of 2026

This game-changing hybrid grill delivers the best of both worlds with 24,000 BTUs of gas power and a fully functional charcoal chamber that doubles as a smoker—ideal for pitmasters who refuse to compromise. The 606 square inches of primary cooking space on porcelain-coated cast iron grates ensures even heat retention and searing capability, while the adjustable grate height gives you precise control over cooking intensity. Whether you’re chasing the deep, wood-infused smokiness of slow-cooked brisket or the quick sear of weekday burgers, this unit handles both with rugged reliability, solving the classic dilemma: charcoal flavor or gas convenience?

In real-world use, the dual-fuel design shines—fire up the propane side for a 10-minute weeknight stir-fry while the charcoal side smokes ribs low and slow. The 870 total square inches easily feeds a crowd, and the side firebox compatibility opens doors for custom wood smoking setups. However, the charcoal side lacks precise airflow controls, making temperature spikes tricky during long smokes. While the powder-coated steel build stands up to harsh weather, the lack of a side shelf means you’ll need to bring your own prep zone. It’s not the flashiest combo grill, but it’s built like a tank for those who prioritize function over frills.

Compared to sleeker models like the GRILL DEPOTS 4-burner combos, the E5030 trades bells and whistles for raw durability and smoking capability. It’s the go-to for backyard traditionalists who want a workhorse smoker-grill hybrid without stepping into pellet territory. While pricier than basic dual-fuel units, it undercuts premium smokers while delivering far more versatility than standalone grills—a true best overall contender when flavor, capacity, and toughness matter most.

For budget-conscious grillers who still want pro-level versatility, this dual-fuel powerhouse delivers 37,230 BTUs and a side burner in one rugged package—making it the best budget-friendly option without sacrificing core functionality. The height-adjustable charcoal pan is a standout, letting you crank down the coals for indirect heat or lift them close for a fierce sear, giving you precision control rarely seen at this price. With porcelain-enameled cast iron grates that resist rust and deliver consistent browning, this grill punches well above its weight in performance and build quality.

On test, the three independent gas burners allow for true multi-zone cooking—sear steaks on high, simmer veggies on low, and use the 10,000 BTU side burner for sauces or corn on the cob. The charcoal side heats slowly but holds steady once stabilized, though airflow management is limited to a basic vent, making fine-tuning a challenge. The lockable swivel wheels make repositioning smooth, and the underneath storage cabinets keep tools and fuel organized. Still, the cooking surface feels tighter than higher-end models—managing both fuel types simultaneously requires careful planning.

When stacked against the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo, this model sacrifices some smoking depth and build prestige but wins on affordability and compact efficiency. It’s perfect for small patios or first-time combo grill owners who want gas speed and charcoal soul without overspending. While it doesn’t offer the expansive space of premium units, it maximizes value by packing in critical features—dual fuel, side burner, durable materials—at a fraction of the cost.

If low-and-slow mastery is your grilling holy grail, the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo is engineered for smoke enthusiasts—a 750-square-inch smoking chamber paired with a 36,000 BTU gas grill makes this the best for smoking in the dual-fuel category. The side-firebox design allows true indirect heat cooking, while adjustable dampers on both the smokestack and firebox give you pinpoint control over airflow and temperature, essential for maintaining that sweet spot between 225°F and 275°F. With hardwood-ready fuel capacity and a removable ash pan, it’s built like a competition smoker with the bonus of a full gas grill for sides.

In practice, this unit excels at long smokes—pork shoulders emerge juicy and ringed with perfect smoke, thanks to consistent heat circulation and excellent insulation. The 281-square-inch firebox grate doubles as a secondary grill, ideal for sausages or veggies, while the front and side shelves keep mops, rubs, and tools within reach. The rubber-treaded wagon wheels roll smoothly over grass and gravel, a boon for uneven backyards. However, the gas side heats up fast but lacks searing intensity compared to higher-output models, and the initial setup takes time due to its size and weight.

Compared to the Char-Griller E5030, this model offers superior smoke control and build quality, but at a steeper price and with less gas-focused performance. It’s ideal for serious weekend pitmasters who want dedicated smoking capability without abandoning gas convenience. While it’s not the most compact or agile grill, it surpasses others in flavor development and thermal consistency, making it the top pick for smoke lovers who treat grilling like craft.

For breakfast lovers and stir-fry fanatics, this 3-in-1 powerhouse redefines outdoor versatility with a stainless steel griddle, charcoal basins, and a 4-burner gas grill—making it the best for griddle lovers who want pancake-ready mornings and smoky dinners on one unit. The 46,750 BTUs across four tube burners ensure blistering heat distribution, while the dual enamel charcoal basins deliver authentic char-kissed flavor without taking over the whole grill. The 23.6” x 14.4” griddle surface is perfect for hash browns, fajitas, or okonomiyaki, and the cast iron grates lock in those coveted sear marks.

In real-world use, the griddle heats evenly with minimal hot spots, and the separate fuel zones let you run charcoal and gas simultaneously—think bacon on the griddle, burgers over charcoal, and eggs on gas. The total 448 square inches is modest compared to larger models, so feeding a big crowd requires rotation. The compact footprint is great for small patios, but the lack of side shelves means prep space is limited. Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the drip tray system, but the griddle requires seasoning like any cast iron surface.

Against the GRILL DEPOTS 673 sq. in. model, this version trades cooking area for griddle specialization, making it better suited for cooks who prioritize flat-top cooking over sheer capacity. It’s perfect for weekend brunch hosts or urban grillers with space constraints. While it doesn’t match the smoking depth of offset models, its multi-surface flexibility and high-output burners deliver unmatched breakfast-to-dinner range—a specialist’s dream in a dual-fuel world.

This culinary command center is built for grillers who demand total control, combining a 4-burner gas grill, charcoal chamber, grooved griddle pan, and side burner into a 673-square-inch powerhouse—earning its title as the best for versatile cooking. The triple 10,000 BTU burners deliver even, restaurant-grade heat, while the perforated griddle pan allows smoke and flame to penetrate food, turning steaks and veggies into flavor-packed masterpieces. The double-layer stainless steel lid resists warping and locks in heat better than standard powder-coated versions, a subtle but critical upgrade for long cooks.

On the backyard battlefield, this grill dominates multi-tasking—simmer sauces on the 9,000 BTU side burner, sear steaks on gas, smoke chicken over charcoal, and scramble eggs on the griddle—all at once. The pull-out drip tray keeps grease management effortless, and the side prep table adds crucial workspace. However, the charcoal side lacks height adjustment, limiting temperature finesse, and the cast iron grates, while durable, require diligent maintenance to prevent rust. It’s a heavy unit, so placement matters—once it’s set, you’re not moving it often.

Next to the Royal Gourmet ZH3002N, this model offers significantly more cooking tech and surface area, justifying its higher cost with superior heat retention and functionality. It’s ideal for entertainers and large families who host regularly and need simultaneous cooking zones. While not the cheapest or most portable, it delivers unmatched adaptability, blending gas speed, charcoal soul, and griddle utility in one robust package—versatility perfected.

For urban dwellers and space-savvy cooks, the Royal Gourmet ZH3002N is the best value for space, packing 759 square inches of cooking area and dual-fuel capability into a surprisingly compact footprint. The side-by-side layout of the 2-burner gas grill and charcoal chamber lets you run both fuels without overlap, while the two side shelves provide essential prep room and tool storage—rare at this size. With 20,000 BTUs and porcelain-coated grates, it delivers solid performance without dominating your patio, making it perfect for apartment balconies or small yards.

In testing, the gas side ignites reliably and heats quickly, ideal for weeknight stir-fries or grilled veggies, while the charcoal side produces genuine smoky flavor, though temperature control is basic due to limited airflow dampers. The 6-inch wheels and lockable casters make it easy to reposition, even on uneven surfaces. Cleanup is a breeze—the slide-out ash tray and large grease cup minimize mess, and the warming rack keeps food hot during long sessions. However, the burners lack high-output power, so searing thick steaks takes patience.

Compared to the Grills House ZH3005Y-SC, this model sacrifices smoker capacity and BTUs but wins on maneuverability and space efficiency. It’s the top pick for city grillers who want dual-fuel flexibility without sacrificing outdoor living space. While not built for competition smoking, it maximizes utility in tight quarters, offering solid performance, smart storage, and easy cleanup—a space-smart champion in the combo grill arena.

When temperature precision is non-negotiable, this 37,000 BTU dual-fuel beast earns its title as the best for heat control, featuring a crank-adjustable charcoal pan and lid-mounted dampers that let you fine-tune airflow without lifting the lid. The 685-square-inch cooking surface is clad in porcelain-enameled cast iron grates that retain heat beautifully and resist corrosion, while the invisible front air vent enhances combustion efficiency—keeping heat loss to a minimum during long cooks. It’s engineered for grillers who treat temperature like a science.

In real use, the adjustable charcoal pan is a game-changer—lower it for indirect roasting, raise it for a quick sear—giving you true versatility on the charcoal side. The three main burners offer solid gas performance, and the side burner handles sauces with ease. The grease management and ash collection systems make post-grill cleanup simple, and the lid dampers allow smoke modulation for nuanced flavor. However, the side shelves feel flimsy compared to competitors, and the ignition system can be finicky in damp weather.

Stacked against the Char-Griller E5030, this model offers superior airflow control and cleaner heat management, though it lacks the smoker-ready firebox. It’s ideal for technical grillers who want repeatable results and consistent temps across sessions. While pricier than budget models, it justifies the cost with engineering excellence, delivering precision-focused performance that bridges the gap between hobbyist and pro—control, mastered.

For feast-sized events, the Grills House ZH3005Y-SC is the best for large gatherings, boasting a massive 1020-square-inch cooking area—including a 197-square-inch offset smoker—that can handle 36 burgers or a full rack of ribs and brisket simultaneously. With 34,000 BTUs from stainless steel burners and a piezo ignition system, it fires up fast and delivers serious heat, while the 3-level adjustable charcoal pan lets you dial in heat for searing, smoking, or slow-roasting. It’s a party-ready powerhouse built for feeding crowds.

In action, the offset smoker adds authentic depth, infusing meats with rich, wood-fired flavor, and the side door makes fuel top-offs and ash removal hassle-free. The side burner (10,000 BTU) is perfect for corn, beans, or butter sauces, and the dual charcoal zones allow for multi-stage cooking. However, the lid lacks a temperature gauge, forcing reliance on external thermometers, and the grill’s size makes it hard to move despite the wheels. It’s a setup-and-stay unit, best for spacious backyards.

Compared to the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon, it offers more total cooking space but less refined smoke control. It’s perfect for family reunion hosts or tailgaters who need maximum capacity and fuel flexibility. While it demands more real estate, it delivers unmatched throughput, making it the undisputed king of crowd cooking—when you’re feeding a village, this grill doesn’t blink.