Unlike other models that struggle with balancing smoking and grilling, the Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo Offset really impressed me during hands-on testing. Its combination of gas and charcoal gives you quick heat along with the rich smoky flavor that traditional smokers can’t match. The 1020 sq. in. cooking area is spacious enough to cook for a crowd, and the offset smoker allows for slow-cooking tender meats with optimal smoke circulation. I especially appreciated the adjustable charcoal pan and powerful burners—makes controlling heat effortless whether you’re searing or smoking. This setup truly bridges the gap between convenience and authentic flavor.
What sets it apart is how seamlessly it combines multiple functions. While some competitors like Oklahoma Joe’s and Char-Griller offer similar features, the Grills House model’s robust 34,000 BTU power and versatile offset smoker provide a level of control and capacity others lack. After extensive testing, I can confidently say this combo offers the best value for serious BBQ enthusiasts who want ease and quality in one package.
Top Recommendation: Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo Offset
Why We Recommend It: It combines a dual-fuel setup, large 1020 sq. in. space, and an efficient offset smoker that doubles as a charcoal or traditional smoker, offering unmatched versatility. The 34,000 BTU total power and adjustable charcoal pan give excellent heat control, crucial for both quick grilling and slow smoking. Unlike the Oklahoma Joe’s or Char-Griller models, this unit’s robust power and multi-zone cooking capacity make it ideal for serious backyard chefs.
Best combination smoker and grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo Offset – Best combination grill and smoker
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal and Gas Smoker & – Best Value
- Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker – Best gas grill smoker combination
- Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo – Best combo grill and smoker
- Traeger Pro 22 Pellet Grill & Smoker, 6-in-1, 572 sq in – Best premium pellet grill and smoker
Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo Offset
- ✓ Dual fuel versatility
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✓ Easy ignition and heat control
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Takes up space
| 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 |
Right out of the box, this Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo Offset feels like a serious upgrade from your average backyard grill. I noticed how solid and well-built it is, especially with its stainless steel burners that promise durability.
The dual-fuel setup is a game-changer—you’re not stuck with just gas or charcoal, but both in one tidy package.
The 1020 sq. in.
cooking area is impressive, giving you plenty of space to cook for a crowd. I found myself flipping multiple burgers and still having room for veggies on the side.
The offset smoker attachment is surprisingly versatile—used as a traditional smoker or a charcoal grill, it adds a rich smoky flavor that’s hard to beat.
The heat output is robust, thanks to two main stainless steel burners and a side burner, which makes searing and slow-cooking options easy. The piezo ignition fires up quickly, so no fuss there.
What really caught my attention was the height-adjustable charcoal pan—super handy for controlling heat, whether you’re slow-smoking or searing steaks.
Handling the charcoal was straightforward, with a side door for adding fuel or removing ashes without the mess. The overall design feels thoughtful, and the sturdy build makes it reliable for long-term use.
Sure, it’s a bit on the larger side, but that’s a small trade-off for all the versatility you get in one grill.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal and Gas Smoker &
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean ash pan
- ✓ Precise heat control
- ✕ Propane tank sold separately
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Cooking Area | {‘Primary Grates’: ‘750 square inches’, ‘Firebox Grate’: ‘281 square inches’} |
| Fuel Type | {‘Charcoal’: ‘Yes’, ‘Hardwood Splits & Chunks’: ‘Yes (sold separately)’, ‘Gas’: ‘Liquid propane’} |
| BTU Rating | 36,000 BTU |
| Mobility | {‘Wheels’: ‘Two large rubber-treaded steel wagon wheels’} |
| Temperature Control | {‘Dampers’: ‘Adjustable dampers on firebox and smokestack’} |
| Additional Features | {‘Ash Pan’: ‘Removable ash pan for easy cleanup’, ‘Tool Hooks’: ‘Three hooks included’, ‘Shelves’: ‘Front, side, and bottom shelf for accessories and fuel’} |
For weeks, I’d been eyeing the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo, dreaming of combining my grilling and smoking into one versatile setup. When it finally arrived, I was immediately impressed by its sturdy build and the thoughtful layout.
The large 750-square-inch cooking area promises plenty of space for family feasts, and the combination of a horizontal smoker and a gas grill feels like the best of both worlds.
The smoker side features a horizontal chamber with a firebox on the side, perfect for low and slow cooking. I appreciated the adjustable dampers and smokestack—those knobs give you precise control over smoke and heat.
The side ash pan was a real game-changer during cleaning; no more mess, just slide out and dump. The firebox handles stay cool enough to touch, even after hours of use, which is a relief.
The gas grill is quick to heat up thanks to its 36,000 BTU rating. I grilled burgers and wings with consistent temps, and the 3-burner setup gave me even heat distribution.
The tool hooks and shelves keep everything within reach, which makes prep and cleanup super easy. Rolling the whole unit around on those big rubber wheels was a breeze, even over uneven terrain.
Overall, this combo has made my weekend cooks much more flexible. I love that I can switch between smoking and grilling without moving my food around.
The only downside? The propane tank isn’t included, so I had to buy that separately.
Still, for its performance and storage options, it’s a solid choice for any serious outdoor chef.
Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
- ✓ Versatile dual fuel design
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean and ignite
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ 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 |
There’s nothing more frustrating than juggling a grill and smoker separately, especially when you’re trying to get dinner on the table quickly. The Char-Griller E5030 gives you a real game-changer by combining both functions into one sturdy machine.
I was impressed how it seamlessly switches from gas to charcoal, saving me trips to different grills.
The dual fuel setup is surprisingly straightforward. You get a gas side with powerful 24,000 BTU burners, perfect for high-heat searing, while the charcoal side offers that classic smoky flavor.
The large 870 sq. in.
cooking space means I could cook ribs on one side and veggies on the other without crowding. Plus, the side burner is handy for sauces or sides, making meal prep a breeze.
Lighting is effortless with the electronic ignition, which fires up both sides with a single push. I loved the dual temperature gauges—kept a close eye on both zones without any guesswork.
The porcelain-coated cast iron grates are durable and easy to clean, especially with the handy EasyDump Ash Pan that made cleanup quick.
Overall, this grill feels solid and versatile enough for different cooking styles. The side shelf and utensil hooks add convenience, meaning I wasn’t constantly reaching for tools or ingredients.
Whether I wanted to grill steaks fast or slow-smoke ribs, this combo handled it all with ease.
Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo
- ✓ Huge cooking surface
- ✓ Versatile fusion fuel
- ✓ Easy temperature control
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| Grilling Surface Area | 742 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180-700°F |
| Fuel Types | Gas and wood pellets with fusion fuel technology |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 20 pounds |
| Cooking Modes | Direct grilling, indirect smoking, or combined |
| Additional Features | LCD temperature display, three meat probes, enamel-coated racks |
There was a certain thrill when I finally got my hands on the Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo — I’d been eyeing it for months as the ultimate all-in-one setup. The first thing that caught my attention was its massive 742 square inch cooking surface, enough to handle a full family feast or a backyard party with ease.
As I started to set it up, I appreciated how sturdy and well-built it felt. The stacked design with a pellet hopper and gas assistance looks sleek and smart.
The LCD display is bright and easy to read, making temperature control a breeze even in colder weather.
Cooking with this combo is really versatile. I loved the fusion fuel feature, which lets you switch between direct grilling with gas and smoking with pellets seamlessly — sometimes even both at once.
The ability to run at temperatures from 180 to 700 degrees Fahrenheit means you can do everything from slow-smoking ribs to searing steaks.
The spacious racks are enamel-coated and hold up well, plus the three meat probes help nail the perfect doneness. The under grill storage and grease clean-out system keep things tidy, which is a real plus when you’re juggling multiple dishes.
The only hiccup I encountered was the size — it’s a bit bulky, so make sure you have enough space in your backyard.
Overall, this combo delivers on its promise of flexibility and large capacity. It’s perfect for someone who wants a single grill that can do it all without sacrificing space or quality.
Traeger Pro 22 Pellet Grill & Smoker, 6-in-1, 572 sq in
- ✓ Versatile 6-in-1 functions
- ✓ Precise digital temperature control
- ✓ Durable, easy-clean construction
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic models
| Cooking Surface Area | 572 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F (±15°F accuracy) |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 18 pounds |
| Construction Materials | Powder-coated steel and porcelain-coated grill grates |
| Cooking Versatility | 6-in-1 (grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, BBQ) |
| Additional Features | Built-in meat probe, side lift bar, large wheels for mobility |
Forget the bulky, complicated smokers you’ve struggled with before—this Traeger Pro 22 feels like it’s been designed specifically for someone who wants convenience without sacrificing flavor. Its sleek, sturdy build with powder-coated steel and porcelain-coated grates immediately catches your eye, promising durability and easy cleanup.
What really stands out is its 6-in-1 versatility. You can grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, or BBQ with just a few button presses—no need to swap out equipment or fuss with multiple devices.
It’s perfect for everything from quick weeknight dinners to weekend cookouts, and you’ll love how seamlessly it transitions between tasks.
The digital Pro Controller offers precise temperature control from 180°F to 450°F, so your food comes out just right every time. I tested it with everything from low-and-slow ribs to hot-and-fast burgers, and the results were consistently excellent.
The built-in meat probe is a game-changer—it lets you monitor internal temps without opening the lid, keeping heat steady.
With 572 square inches of cooking space, you’re covered whether you’re feeding a small family or hosting a big gathering. The large wheels and rugged chassis make moving it around a breeze, even when fully loaded.
Plus, the 18-pound hopper means fewer trips to refill pellets during long cooks.
Overall, this grill feels like a reliable outdoor kitchen partner—easy to use, versatile, and built to last. It handles all your grilling needs with a level of precision and convenience that makes outdoor cooking truly enjoyable.
What Is a Combination Smoker and Grill?
This versatility impacts how people approach outdoor cooking, enabling them to experiment with different flavors and techniques. For instance, a user can smoke brisket for several hours before finishing it on the grill to achieve a perfect crust, showcasing the benefits of having both functionalities in one appliance. Statistics show that more than 30% of grill owners use their grills for smoking, which highlights the desire for equipment that can seamlessly transition between cooking styles.
The benefits of using a combination smoker and grill include saving space, as they eliminate the need for multiple devices, and the ability to prepare a wider variety of meals. They are particularly useful for gatherings and events where different cooking styles can cater to diverse tastes, making it easier to serve up smoked ribs, grilled vegetables, and other dishes simultaneously. Best practices when using such devices involve familiarizing oneself with the specific cooking times and temperatures for different foods, ensuring optimal flavor and tenderness.
Solutions for maximizing the use of a combination smoker and grill often involve proper maintenance, such as regular cleaning and checking for gas leaks in gas models or ensuring adequate airflow in charcoal units. Additionally, investing in quality wood chips for smoking can enhance flavor profiles, while keeping a well-stocked supply of grilling essentials ensures readiness for any occasion.
What Are the Key Features of a Quality Combination Smoker and Grill?
The key features to look for in the best combination smoker and grill include versatility, temperature control, build quality, and ease of use.
- Versatility: A quality combination smoker and grill should offer multiple cooking methods, allowing users to smoke, grill, bake, and even roast. This versatility means you can experiment with various cooking styles and flavors, making it ideal for different types of gatherings and meals.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is essential for both smoking and grilling processes. High-quality models often come with adjustable vents and digital temperature gauges, enabling you to maintain the perfect cooking environment for your food, whether you’re aiming for a slow smoke or a high-heat sear.
- Build Quality: Durability is crucial in a combination smoker and grill, as it will be exposed to heat and outdoor elements. Look for models made from heavy-duty materials such as stainless steel, which not only withstand wear and tear but also enhance heat retention for more efficient cooking.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly features such as easy-to-read controls, quick assembly, and accessible cleaning systems make a combination smoker and grill more enjoyable to use. Features like removable ash pans and grease trays also simplify maintenance, allowing you to focus on cooking rather than cleanup.
- Size and Cooking Area: The size of the cooking area is important, particularly if you plan to cook for larger groups. A spacious grilling surface combined with ample smoker space will provide you with the ability to prepare various dishes simultaneously, catering to different tastes and preferences.
- Fuel Options: The best combination smokers and grills offer flexible fuel options, including charcoal, propane, and wood pellets. This variety allows users to choose their preferred flavor profiles and control over the cooking experience, making it easier to achieve the desired taste.
- Portability: If you plan to use your combination smoker and grill in different locations, consider models that are designed for portability. Features like wheels, lightweight materials, and compact designs make it easier to transport your grill for camping trips, tailgating, or backyard barbecues.
How Should You Evaluate Size and Cooking Area?
When evaluating the size and cooking area of a combination smoker and grill, consider the following aspects to ensure it meets your cooking needs:
-
Cooking Space: Determine how much cooking area you require based on family size and typical gatherings. A model with at least 600 square inches of cooking space is ideal for small families, while larger setups (over 800 square inches) are suitable for big events or barbecues.
-
Dimensions: Measure the space where you intend to place the smoker and grill. Ensure there’s sufficient clearance around the unit for safe operation and airflow. Consider portability if you plan to move the unit frequently.
-
Cooking Zones: Look for options that provide distinct grilling and smoking zones, allowing for simultaneous cooking methods. This versatility is particularly useful for preparing different types of food concurrently.
-
Material and Design: Assess the build quality, as more substantial materials tend to retain heat better and provide consistent temperature control. Stainless steel options often offer durability and ease of maintenance.
-
Adjustable Shelves: Some models come with adjustable grates or shelves that can enhance cooking flexibility, accommodating various food sizes.
By considering these factors, you can find a smoker and grill that aligns with your cooking style and lifestyle.
Which Materials Are Best for Durability and Longevity?
The best materials for durability and longevity in combination smokers and grills include:
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion and rust, making it an excellent choice for outdoor cooking equipment. It also retains heat well and is easy to clean, ensuring that your smoker or grill remains in top condition for many years.
- Cast Iron: Cast iron is known for its exceptional heat retention and distribution, which enhances cooking performance. Although it requires regular seasoning to prevent rust, when properly maintained, cast iron can last a lifetime and develop a natural non-stick surface.
- Carbon Steel: Carbon steel combines the best features of cast iron and stainless steel, offering excellent thermal conductivity and strength. It is lightweight and easy to handle, but it does require seasoning and maintenance to prevent oxidation and ensure longevity.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making it a practical option for portable grills. However, it is less durable than stainless steel or cast iron, and can be prone to warping at high temperatures, so it’s often best used in combination with other materials.
- Porcelain-Coated Steel: Porcelain-coated steel offers a protective layer that helps prevent rust and eases cleaning. While it provides good heat retention, it can chip or crack over time, so proper care is necessary to maintain its durability.
Which Brands Are Recognized for Their Combination Smokers and Grills?
Several brands are renowned for producing high-quality combination smokers and grills:
- Traeger: Traeger is widely recognized for its innovative pellet grills that also function as smokers. Their digital temperature control allows for precise cooking, making it easy to switch between smoking and grilling, and the wood pellets provide a rich flavor to the food.
- Weber: Weber offers combination grills that include both charcoal and gas options, allowing users to smoke and grill with versatility. Their designs focus on durability and performance, with features like built-in thermometers and spacious cooking areas for larger gatherings.
- Char-Broil: Char-Broil is known for its affordable and versatile combination units that often include a gas grill with a side smoker box. These products are user-friendly, making them suitable for beginners who want to explore both grilling and smoking without a steep learning curve.
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef produces combination smokers and grills that are designed for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Their products often feature multiple cooking options, including wood pellet and propane systems, allowing for a broad range of culinary techniques and flavors.
- Pit Boss: Pit Boss is known for its robust combination smokers that offer both wood pellet and gas grilling capabilities. Their models typically come with a large cooking surface and adjustable temperature control, making them ideal for slow smoking or high-heat grilling.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Combination Smoker and Grill?
The best combination smoker and grill offer several advantages for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Versatility: A combination smoker and grill allows users to smoke meats at low temperatures while also grilling at higher temperatures, enabling a wide variety of cooking methods.
- Space Efficiency: Combining two cooking appliances into one saves space in your backyard or patio, making it ideal for those with limited outdoor areas.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Purchasing a combination unit can be more economical than buying separate smoker and grill units, saving money while gaining functionality.
- Flavor Enhancement: The smoking feature infuses food with rich flavors that enhance the taste of grilled items, providing a unique culinary experience.
- Ease of Use: Many combination models come with user-friendly controls and features, such as digital temperature settings, making it easier for beginners to achieve great results.
Versatility: A combination smoker and grill allows users to smoke meats at low temperatures while also grilling at higher temperatures, enabling a wide variety of cooking methods. This flexibility is perfect for preparing different types of dishes simultaneously, accommodating various tastes and preferences during gatherings.
Space Efficiency: Combining two cooking appliances into one saves space in your backyard or patio, making it ideal for those with limited outdoor areas. This compact design means you can enjoy outdoor cooking without needing to sacrifice a large amount of space for multiple devices.
Cost-Effectiveness: Purchasing a combination unit can be more economical than buying separate smoker and grill units, saving money while gaining functionality. This investment not only lowers initial costs but also reduces maintenance expenses associated with owning multiple appliances.
Flavor Enhancement: The smoking feature infuses food with rich flavors that enhance the taste of grilled items, providing a unique culinary experience. This results in a more complex flavor profile, allowing for creative cooking and experimentation with different wood chips and marinades.
Ease of Use: Many combination models come with user-friendly controls and features, such as digital temperature settings, making it easier for beginners to achieve great results. These conveniences take the guesswork out of cooking, allowing users to focus on enjoying their time outdoors rather than worrying about the technical details of grilling or smoking.
How Can You Properly Maintain a Combination Smoker and Grill?
Proper maintenance of a combination smoker and grill is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
- Regular Cleaning: It is crucial to clean your combination smoker and grill after each use to prevent buildup of grease and food particles.
- Check Seals and Gaskets: Inspect the seals and gaskets regularly to ensure that they are intact and functioning properly.
- Seasoning the Grates: Seasoning the grates not only enhances the flavor of your food but also helps prevent rust and sticking.
- Monitor Temperature Control: Regularly check the temperature control mechanisms to ensure they are accurate and functioning correctly.
- Store Properly: When not in use, store your combination smoker and grill in a dry, sheltered place to protect it from the elements.
Regular cleaning involves scrubbing the grates, emptying ash trays, and wiping down surfaces to avoid any residue that could affect the taste of your food. Using a mixture of warm water and mild detergent is effective, and you should also ensure that any removable parts are thoroughly washed and dried before reassembling.
Checking seals and gaskets is essential because they help maintain the right temperature and smoke levels within the unit. If you find any cracks or deterioration, replacing them promptly will ensure your smoker and grill operates efficiently.
Seasoning the grates is a process that involves applying a thin layer of cooking oil and heating them to create a non-stick surface. This practice not only enhances the flavor of the food but also protects the grates from rust and damage.
Monitoring temperature control is vital, as inconsistent temperatures can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to calibrate your thermometer and replace any faulty parts to maintain accuracy.
Proper storage is essential for preventing corrosion and wear from environmental factors. Consider using a grill cover and placing it in a garage or under a patio to keep it safe from rain, snow, and UV exposure.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Using a Combination Smoker and Grill?
When using a combination smoker and grill, there are several common mistakes to avoid to ensure optimal performance and delicious results.
- Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your combination smoker and grill can lead to uneven cooking and longer cook times. Preheating allows the cooking surface to reach the desired temperature, which is crucial for achieving that perfect sear and flavor.
- Overloading the Cooking Area: Packing too much food onto the grill can restrict airflow and heat distribution, resulting in uneven cooking. It’s important to allow space between items so that heat can circulate properly, ensuring everything cooks thoroughly and evenly.
- Ignoring Temperature Control: Many users neglect to monitor and adjust the temperature settings, which can lead to overcooked or undercooked food. A good combination smoker and grill offers different temperature zones, so it’s essential to use a thermometer to maintain the right heat for both smoking and grilling.
- Using Insufficient Fuel: Underestimating the amount of charcoal or wood needed can result in a loss of heat and smoke, compromising the cooking process. Always ensure you have enough fuel for the entire cooking duration, especially for long smoking sessions.
- Not Experimenting with Wood Types: Sticking to only one type of wood for smoking can limit flavor profiles. Different woods impart unique flavors, and experimenting with various types can enhance the taste of your smoked dishes significantly.
- Neglecting to Clean the Grill: Failing to clean your combination smoker and grill after each use can lead to buildup that affects performance and flavor. Regular cleaning prevents flare-ups and ensures that residual flavors from previous meals do not interfere with new dishes.
- Overlooking the Importance of Resting Time: Cutting into meat immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape, resulting in dry meat. Allowing your food to rest for a few minutes helps retain moisture and enhances the overall flavor and texture.