Best Hybrid Grills: Charcoal & Gas 2026
The best hybrid grills combine the convenience of propane gas with the distinctive cooking experience of charcoal. For most backyard cooks, the Char-Griller Double Play 5650 is our top recommendation. It offers separate gas and charcoal cooking chambers, substantial grilling space, and a side burner for preparing additional dishes.
However, the best choice depends on how you cook. The Char-Griller Dual Function E5030 is a more affordable option for smaller households. Meanwhile, the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo adds a dedicated offset smoker for barbecue enthusiasts who enjoy low-and-slow cooking.
Other models offer different advantages. The Nexgrill Oakford 1150 Pro provides generous cooking capacity, while the Char-Griller FlexFuel Plus adds a removable griddle for breakfast and flat-top cooking. Premium outdoor kitchens can also benefit from the stainless-steel Coyote C3HY50.
Not every grill marketed as a hybrid works the same way. Some have independent gas and charcoal chambers. Others use a shared cooking system or merely include a gas burner to ignite charcoal. Understanding those differences is essential before buying.
In this guide, we’ll compare seven hybrid grills, explain their strengths and drawbacks, and help you decide whether a combination grill is better than purchasing separate gas and charcoal equipment.
Quick Answer: Best Hybrid Grills
Best Overall: Char-Griller Double Play 5650 — separate gas and charcoal chambers, 875 square inches of primary cooking space, and a convenient side burner.
Best Budget Option: Char-Griller Dual Function E5030 — genuine dual-fuel cooking with 600 square inches of primary grilling area and two gas burners.
Best for Smoking: Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo — combines propane grilling with an included charcoal-and-wood offset smoker.
Best Large-Capacity Combo: Nexgrill Oakford 1150 Pro — 1,150 square inches of manufacturer-listed total cooking space, a three-burner gas grill, and an offset smoker.
Best Premium Outdoor-Kitchen Grill: Coyote C3HY50 — a 50-inch stainless-steel hybrid with adjustable charcoal management and 30,000 BTU of rated gas burner output.
How We Selected These Hybrid Grills
We focused on grills that genuinely support cooking with both gas and charcoal. Products that use gas only to ignite charcoal were excluded from the main recommendations.
Each grill was evaluated using manufacturer specifications, relevant independent editorial research, cooking configuration, available space, temperature-management features, cleaning requirements, and practical ownership costs.
We also looked beyond advertised cooking-area totals. Primary grilling space matters more than a large number that includes warming racks. Similarly, a smoker attachment sold separately should not be treated as a feature included with the original purchase.
Our recommendations are based on documented capabilities and buyer needs. Discompare has not conducted original hands-on cooking tests of these seven grills. We do not claim independently measured heat distribution, maximum cooking temperatures, or smoking performance.
Best Hybrid Charcoal and Gas Grills Compared
| Hybrid Grill | Gas System | Cooking Area | Smoking Capability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Char-Griller Double Play 5650 | 3 main burners + side burner | 875 sq. in. primary / 1,260 total | Optional offset firebox | Overall backyard versatility |
| Char-Griller Dual Function E5030 | 2 main burners, 24,000 BTU | 600 sq. in. primary / 870 total | Optional offset firebox | Budget-conscious households |
| Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo | 3 burners, 36,000 BTU | 750 sq. in. primary / 1,031 total | Offset smoker included | Traditional barbecue smoking |
| Nexgrill Oakford 1150 Pro | 3 burners, 30,000 BTU | 1,150 sq. in. total | Offset smoker included | Large gatherings |
| Char-Griller FlexFuel Plus | 2 burners, 30,000 BTU | 875 sq. in. primary / 1,260 total | Optional offset firebox | Grilling and griddle cooking |
| Royal Gourmet ZH3002C | 2 burners, 20,000 BTU | 759 sq. in. total | Charcoal cooking with airflow control | Cabinet-style storage |
| Coyote C3HY50 | 30,000 BTU total | 1,200 sq. in. manufacturer-listed | Adjustable charcoal fuel and airflow controls | Premium outdoor kitchens |
Important: Primary cooking area and total cooking area are not interchangeable. Total figures may include warming racks or additional surfaces. Check the exact gas-side and charcoal-side dimensions if you regularly prepare large meals on only one fuel.
Compare Current Hybrid Grill Prices
Hybrid grills range from relatively affordable backyard models to premium equipment designed for custom outdoor kitchens. The purchase price depends on size, construction, fuel systems, included accessories, and retailer availability.
For example, a grill with an integrated offset smoker may cost more initially but avoid the need for a separate smoker attachment. Meanwhile, a lower-priced combo grill can become more expensive once you add a protective cover, replacement grates, or a side firebox.
Compare the exact product model and included equipment before buying. Retailer stock and promotional prices change, so use the product cards below to check current offers rather than relying on a fixed sale price.
The 7 Best Hybrid Grills: Gas and Charcoal
1. Char-Griller Double Play 5650 — Best Hybrid Grill Overall
Best For: Families and backyard cooks who want a versatile gas-and-charcoal grill for everyday meals and weekend barbecues.
The Char-Griller Double Play 5650 is our overall recommendation because it delivers the two cooking experiences most hybrid-grill shoppers actually want: convenient propane grilling and a separate charcoal cooking chamber.
On the gas side, three main burners provide controllable heat for burgers, chicken, vegetables, and other everyday meals. A separate side burner gives you another place to prepare sauces or side dishes.
The charcoal chamber is designed for cooks who enjoy managing a live fire and adjusting the distance between charcoal and food. Instead of replacing charcoal flavor with a smoker box on a gas grill, the Double Play gives you a dedicated charcoal cooking system.
Char-Griller lists 875 square inches of primary cooking space and 1,260 square inches of total cooking area. Its combined gas system is rated at 52,800 BTU.
Porcelain-coated cast-iron cooking grates provide a durable cooking surface when maintained properly. The EasyDump ash pan also makes charcoal cleanup more manageable once the fuel has completely cooled.
Another advantage is expansion. The Double Play is compatible with Char-Griller’s optional Side Fire Box, which can create an offset-smoking configuration. However, that attachment is sold separately.
The biggest drawback is its size. At approximately 64 inches wide, this isn’t a compact grill for a small balcony or tightly arranged patio. You’ll also need space for propane storage, charcoal supplies, and safe movement around the equipment.
If you’re still deciding whether a combination model makes sense, our best outdoor grills guide compares dedicated gas, charcoal, pellet, and other cooking systems.
Pros
✅ Independent gas and charcoal cooking areas
✅ 875 square inches of primary grilling space
✅ Additional gas side burner
✅ Convenient removable ash system
✅ Compatible with an optional offset firebox
Cons
❌ Requires considerable backyard space
❌ Side firebox costs extra
❌ Both cooking systems require maintenance
Who Should Skip It: Buyers with limited outdoor space or people who rarely use charcoal and mainly want a simple gas grill.
Alternative: Char-Griller FlexFuel Plus for shoppers who would use a flat-top griddle more often than a dedicated side burner.
2. Char-Griller Dual Function E5030 — Best Affordable Hybrid Grill
Best For: Smaller households and budget-conscious grillers who want genuine gas-and-charcoal flexibility without purchasing a larger combination unit.
The Char-Griller Dual Function E5030 offers a more accessible entry into dual-fuel grilling. It uses two stainless-steel gas burners and a separate charcoal chamber, allowing you to choose the cooking method that suits each meal.
The gas system delivers 24,000 BTU, while the charcoal section allows hands-on management of the cooking fire.
Char-Griller lists 600 square inches of primary cooking area and 870 square inches total. That’s less space than the Double Play, but it can be enough for typical family meals and smaller gatherings.
Practical features include electronic ignition, separate temperature gauges, porcelain-coated cast-iron grates, and a removable ash pan. A side shelf also provides convenient preparation space.
Like the Double Play, the E5030 supports an optional Side Fire Box for offset smoking. That flexibility is valuable, but the smoker attachment is not included in the basic package.
Its main compromise is capacity. Two gas burners offer fewer independently controlled heat zones than a three-burner system, particularly when you’re preparing foods requiring different temperatures.
However, buying a smaller grill can make more sense than paying for cooking space you rarely use. If you usually prepare dinner for two to four people, the E5030 deserves serious consideration.
Pros
✅ Genuine gas-and-charcoal cooking capability
✅ More compact than larger combination grills
✅ Electronic gas ignition
✅ Removable ash pan and optional smoker expansion
Cons
❌ Smaller primary cooking area
❌ Only two main gas burners
❌ Offset smoking requires an additional purchase
Who Should Skip It: Frequent hosts who need substantial gas-side capacity or buyers who want an offset smoker included from the beginning.
Alternative: Royal Gourmet ZH3002C for a cabinet-style design with storage below the cooking chambers.
3. Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo — Best Hybrid Grill for Smoking
Best For: Barbecue enthusiasts who want propane convenience alongside a traditional charcoal-and-wood offset-smoking setup.
The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo stands out because its smoker isn’t an optional attachment. The offset firebox is part of the original grill design.
That gives you two distinct cooking approaches. Use the three-burner propane section for quick weekday meals, or manage charcoal and wood in the smoker for longer barbecue sessions.
The gas section is rated at 36,000 BTU. Oklahoma Joe’s lists 750 square inches of primary cooking area and 1,031 square inches total, including the additional warming surface.
The offset firebox has a dedicated access door for adding fuel and tending the fire. Adjustable airflow helps regulate combustion, while the removable ash pan simplifies cleanup once everything has cooled.
Heavy-gauge steel construction and porcelain-coated cast-iron grates also reinforce the grill’s traditional barbecue design.
Nevertheless, a conventional offset smoker requires attention. Temperature can change as fuel burns, wind affects airflow, and additional charcoal or wood becomes necessary. It doesn’t offer the automatic temperature regulation of a digitally controlled pellet smoker.
The Canyon Combo is also substantial equipment. At approximately 69 inches wide and 184 pounds, it needs suitable outdoor space and isn’t designed for frequent transport.
For long cooking sessions, a reliable food-and-pit thermometer can make temperature management easier. Our best Bluetooth grill thermometers guide compares monitoring options for different cooking styles.
Pros
✅ Offset smoker included
✅ Three-burner propane grilling system
✅ Dedicated charcoal and wood fire management
✅ Removable ash pan and heavy-gauge construction
Cons
❌ Smoking requires active fire management
❌ Large and heavy construction
❌ Availability can vary between retailers
Who Should Skip It: Buyers who want effortless temperature control or expect to use the smoker only once or twice a year.
Alternative: Nexgrill Oakford 1150 Pro for another integrated gas-and-offset-smoker setup with a larger advertised total cooking area.
4. Nexgrill Oakford 1150 Pro — Best Large-Capacity Hybrid Grill
Best For: Families and backyard hosts who want gas grilling, charcoal cooking, and offset smoking in one substantial outdoor setup.
The Nexgrill Oakford 1150 Pro combines multiple cooking methods in a single unit. Its three stainless-steel gas burners are rated at a combined 30,000 BTU.
Alongside the gas section, the grill provides a charcoal-and-wood cooking arrangement with an offset smoker. This gives you the flexibility to prepare quick meals on propane while exploring slower cooking methods using solid fuel.
Nexgrill advertises 1,150 square inches of total cooking space. However, that figure shouldn’t be confused with 1,150 square inches of uninterrupted primary gas grilling area. The combined capacity is spread across the grill’s cooking surfaces.
An included griddle plate adds another practical option. Instead of cooking everything over conventional grates, you can prepare foods that benefit from a flat surface, such as chopped vegetables, breakfast ingredients, or smaller items that might fall through grill bars.
Temperature gauges help monitor the separate cooking sections, while the offset smoker offers additional flexibility for weekend barbecue preparation.
The main drawback is complexity. More cooking surfaces mean more parts to clean, and a larger combination grill requires enough space for fuel handling, food preparation, and safe access.
You’ll also want to verify exactly which accessories come with the retailer’s listing. Model numbers matter because grill bundles and closely related Oakford products can differ.
Pros
✅ 1,150 square inches of listed total cooking space
✅ Three gas burners
✅ Integrated offset smoker
✅ Griddle plate included
Cons
❌ Large footprint
❌ More cooking surfaces to maintain
❌ Total cooking capacity is divided across sections
Who Should Skip It: Households with limited outdoor space or cooks who only prepare small meals and rarely smoke meat.
Alternative: Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo for buyers who prefer its more traditional offset-smoker design.
5. Char-Griller FlexFuel Plus — Best Gas, Charcoal, and Griddle Combo
Best For: Home cooks who want traditional grilling plus a flat-top cooking surface for breakfast, vegetables, and other foods.
The Char-Griller FlexFuel Plus provides one of the more versatile configurations in this comparison. It includes separate gas and charcoal cooking areas, along with a removable griddle insert for the gas side.
The two gas burners produce a combined 30,000 BTU. Meanwhile, the charcoal section has an adjustable fuel tray and dampers for managing the fire.
Char-Griller lists 875 square inches of primary cooking space and 1,260 square inches total. Its dimensions are similar to other full-size dual-fuel backyard models.
The included griddle is the main attraction. Remove the compatible gas-side grates and install the flat-top insert to prepare foods that aren’t ideal for traditional grill bars.
For example, a griddle can be convenient for breakfast ingredients, sautéed vegetables, or smaller pieces of food that need continuous contact with a heated surface.
The FlexFuel Plus also uses porcelain-coated cast-iron grates and includes an EasyDump ash pan for the charcoal section.
Like other Char-Griller hybrid models, it supports an additional Side Fire Box. However, offset smoking with that attachment requires a separate purchase.
The trade-off is that the griddle and grill grates share the same gas-side space. You must change the cooking surface rather than operate a separate full-size griddle and gas grate simultaneously in that section.
If you enjoy cooking with technology and accessories, see our best summer grilling tech guide for thermometers, charcoal ignition tools, and other useful upgrades.
Pros
✅ Separate gas and charcoal cooking sections
✅ Removable griddle plate included
✅ 875 square inches of primary cooking space
✅ Adjustable charcoal tray and removable ash pan
Cons
❌ Griddle use requires swapping cooking surfaces
❌ Optional side firebox adds cost
❌ Needs substantial storage and working space
Who Should Skip It: Buyers who rarely use flat-top cooking surfaces or prefer a dedicated gas side burner.
Alternative: Char-Griller Double Play 5650 if you value its side burner and more conventional grilling layout.
6. Royal Gourmet ZH3002C — Best Cabinet-Style Hybrid Grill
Best For: Backyard cooks who prefer integrated storage, practical preparation space, and a conventional side-by-side gas-and-charcoal layout.
The Royal Gourmet ZH3002C uses separate cooking sections for propane and charcoal. Its gas system includes two stainless-steel burners delivering a combined 20,000 BTU.
The manufacturer lists 759 square inches of total cooking space. That makes it a more modest option than the larger Char-Griller and Nexgrill models in this roundup.
On the charcoal side, an adjustable charcoal pan helps change the distance between the heat source and cooking grate. An air vent provides another way to manage combustion.
The cabinet-style lower section is useful for organizing appropriate grill accessories, while the side shelves provide preparation space. Royal Gourmet also includes a protective grill cover with this configuration.
Grease management and ash removal are important considerations for any hybrid grill. The ZH3002C includes features intended to simplify those tasks, although both fuel sections still need regular care.
Its main limitation is cooking capacity. The 20,000 BTU gas system is less powerful on paper than the larger options, and the cooking area is divided between the two fuel sections.
Manufacturer-direct inventory has also been limited during our research. Before purchasing, confirm retailer stock, the exact ZH3002C model number, and the warranty terms applicable to your seller.
Pros
✅ Side-by-side gas and charcoal cooking
✅ Adjustable charcoal pan
✅ Cabinet-style organization
✅ Protective cover included
Cons
❌ Less total cooking space than larger alternatives
❌ Lower gas burner output
❌ Retail availability requires careful checking
Who Should Skip It: Frequent entertainers who need large independent cooking zones or buyers specifically seeking a complete offset smoker.
Alternative: Char-Griller Dual Function E5030 for a similarly accessible dual-fuel arrangement with a larger manufacturer-listed total cooking area.
7. Coyote C3HY50 — Best Premium Hybrid Grill for Outdoor Kitchens
Best For: Homeowners planning a premium outdoor kitchen who want stainless-steel construction and the ability to use gas or charcoal.
The Coyote C3HY50 is a different type of purchase from most grills in this comparison. Its 50-inch design targets substantial outdoor-kitchen installations rather than basic freestanding backyard grilling.
Coyote uses 304 stainless steel construction and lists approximately 1,200 square inches of cooking area. Its two gas burners deliver a combined 30,000 BTU.
What makes it a true hybrid is its support for both gas and charcoal cooking. The adjustable charcoal fuel tray helps manage the position of the solid fuel, while dampers provide control over airflow.
Integrated wind guards are designed to help stabilize the cooking environment. The grill also includes interior lighting, making it easier to see the cooking area during evening use.
These features are valuable for someone building a dedicated outdoor kitchen. Rather than buying a conventional gas grill and finding space for a second charcoal unit, the Coyote incorporates both fuel capabilities into one premium appliance.
However, its internal cooking configuration should not be confused with the completely separate side-by-side chambers offered by several freestanding models in this article. Buyers should review the installation guide and how gas and charcoal modes operate before purchasing.
The major drawback is cost. Premium stainless-steel grills require a much larger initial investment, and the total project may include a suitable enclosure, installation work, accessories, and a compatible fuel connection.
Before ordering, confirm the exact propane or natural-gas configuration, ventilation requirements, installation clearances, and professional installation needs.
Pros
✅ Premium 304 stainless-steel construction
✅ Gas and charcoal cooking capability
✅ Adjustable charcoal tray and dampers
✅ Interior lighting and integrated wind guards
Cons
❌ Considerably more expensive than mainstream hybrids
❌ Requires careful outdoor-kitchen planning
❌ Fuel configuration and installation must be verified
Who Should Skip It: Budget-conscious shoppers, casual grillers, and anyone looking for a compact freestanding grill.
Alternative: Char-Griller Double Play 5650 for a much more accessible gas-and-charcoal setup without committing to a premium outdoor-kitchen installation.
Hybrid Grills We Considered but Didn’t Select
Several other outdoor cooking products use the word hybrid, but they don’t necessarily provide the same functionality as the seven grills above.
Char-Broil Gas2Coal: An interesting convertible design, but current U.S. availability and the exact supported model generation need confirmation before recommending it as a mainstream purchase.
Weber Summit Kamado S6: A premium charcoal cooker with gas-assisted charcoal ignition. It isn’t equivalent to a grill with a conventional gas cooking system and a separate charcoal mode.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series: Uses charcoal with digitally managed temperature control. Its electronic system doesn’t turn it into a propane-and-charcoal grill.
Pellet-and-gas combinations: Useful for buyers interested in wood-pellet smoking and propane cooking, but they don’t meet the specific requirement for charcoal grilling.
Older Char-Griller DUO configurations: Potentially worthwhile when available, but the currently documented Double Play and FlexFuel models provide clearer comparisons for this guide.
How Do Hybrid Gas and Charcoal Grills Work?
Hybrid grills combine more than one fuel-based cooking method. However, manufacturers use several different designs, and those differences influence convenience, cooking capacity, and cleaning requirements.
Independent Dual-Chamber Grills
The most familiar configuration places a gas grill and charcoal grill side by side in one frame.
Each section has its own cooking chamber and heat-management system. The gas side uses burners, while the charcoal side uses a solid-fuel tray and airflow controls.
This arrangement allows you to choose either fuel without converting the same firebox. Some designs also allow both sections to operate during the same meal, provided the manufacturer permits that use.
The disadvantage is size. Two cooking systems require a larger body, additional components, and separate cleaning.
Convertible Hybrid Grills
Some grills use a shared cooking chamber that can be configured for different fuels.
Rather than providing independent gas and charcoal zones, these designs may require changing the fuel setup before cooking.
The advantage can be a more integrated appliance. However, you may lose the ability to prepare gas-grilled and charcoal-grilled foods independently at the same time.
Always check the exact conversion process. Never add charcoal to a gas grill unless the manufacturer explicitly designed it for that purpose.
Gas Ignition vs. Gas Cooking
A charcoal grill with gas ignition uses a small burner to help light the charcoal.
Once the charcoal is burning, the charcoal remains the main cooking fuel. The ignition burner does not necessarily provide conventional gas grilling capability.
That is why products such as the Weber Summit Kamado S6 are not directly comparable with a Char-Griller Double Play or Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo.
Hybrid Grill Pros and Cons
Pros
✅ Choose gas convenience or charcoal cooking
✅ Useful for different meals and cooking techniques
✅ Some models support simultaneous cooking zones
✅ Certain configurations include offset smokers or griddles
Cons
❌ Usually larger than a single-fuel grill
❌ Requires storing and maintaining two fuel systems
❌ Cooking area is divided between different sections
❌ More components can increase cleaning and ownership effort
A hybrid grill makes the most sense when you expect to use both fuel systems regularly. If you consistently choose only one, a dedicated grill may offer better cooking capacity or value for the same budget.
How to Choose the Right Hybrid BBQ Grill
1. Compare Primary and Total Cooking Area
Manufacturers often highlight the largest possible cooking-area figure. That number may include warming racks or additional surfaces.
For example, the Char-Griller Double Play offers 1,260 square inches of total cooking area, but 875 square inches is designated primary space.
Look beyond the total figure. Ask how much area is available over gas burners and how much is available above charcoal. If you expect to grill ten burgers over propane, the total space across both chambers won’t tell you whether they’ll all fit.
2. Consider Gas Burner Count and Heat Zones
More burners generally provide additional options for creating different heat zones.
A three-burner gas section can make it easier to combine direct and indirect cooking than a smaller two-burner setup, although burner arrangement and grill design also matter.
Don’t judge a grill by BTU output alone. BTU describes the manufacturer’s rated fuel-input capacity, not independently measured cooking performance or efficiency.
3. Examine Charcoal Temperature Controls
A useful charcoal section should provide practical ways to manage the fire.
Look for an adjustable charcoal tray, air dampers, accessible fuel area, and a straightforward ash-removal system.
A height-adjustable charcoal tray can change the distance between burning fuel and food. Dampers influence airflow and combustion, although actual temperature also depends on the fuel load, wind, and cooking conditions.
4. Check Which Smoking Accessories Are Included
Not every grill described as smoker-compatible includes a dedicated offset firebox.
For example, the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo and Nexgrill Oakford 1150 Pro include offset-smoking hardware as part of their configurations.
By contrast, the Char-Griller Double Play and FlexFuel Plus support optional Side Fire Box attachments. Those accessories must be purchased separately when not included in a retailer bundle.
Check the total ownership cost before assuming a lower-priced grill is the better value.
5. Evaluate Construction, Storage, and Maintenance
Cast-iron grates, coated steel bodies, stainless-steel components, and removable ash pans all influence maintenance requirements.
However, no outdoor grill is maintenance-free. Cooking residue, water exposure, grease buildup, and ash can contribute to deterioration when ignored.
Measure the available space before ordering, including the room needed to open lids, access fuel systems, prepare food, and maintain the manufacturer’s required clearances.
Also check warranty coverage and replacement-part availability for the exact model. A grill is a long-term purchase, and replaceable burners, grates, and ignition components can matter as much as the original specifications.
Hybrid Grill vs. Separate Gas and Charcoal Grills
A combination grill isn’t automatically cheaper or more practical than purchasing two standalone products.
| Factor | Hybrid Grill | Separate Grills |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel flexibility | Both systems in one appliance | Each grill specializes in one fuel |
| Cooking space | Divided between systems | Full cooking area per appliance |
| Placement | One large footprint | Two footprints, potentially more flexible |
| Maintenance | Two systems in one frame | Separate maintenance routines |
| Upgrading | May require replacing a combined unit | Each grill can be replaced independently |
Choose a hybrid grill when you regularly want both cooking styles and prefer one integrated station.
Choose separate grills when you need full-size capacity for each fuel, want specialized equipment, or expect to upgrade one cooking system without replacing the other.
For some households, a standard gas grill and a simple charcoal kettle may offer better value than a large dual-fuel combination.
Safe Grilling and Maintenance
Use Gas and Charcoal Grills Outdoors Only
Propane and charcoal grills must be used outside in suitable open-air locations. Never operate them indoors, in a garage, in an enclosed porch, or inside a tent.
Both fuel types present fire hazards, and combustion can produce dangerous carbon monoxide.
The U.S. Fire Administration recommends keeping grills well away from siding, deck railings, eaves, and overhanging branches. It also recommends a three-foot safety zone to keep children and pets away.
Important Safety Reminder: Follow the grill manufacturer’s specified clearances and local fire regulations. Never assume a covered patio, balcony, or wooden deck is suitable. Keep combustible materials away, monitor the grill while it is operating, and use each fuel system only as instructed.
Inspect the Propane System
Before using a gas grill, inspect hoses, connections, and the regulator according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you suspect a propane leak, turn off the fuel supply when safe, avoid ignition sources, and follow the manufacturer’s emergency guidance.
Open the gas grill lid before lighting it. Never attempt to operate an unfamiliar fuel system by improvising ignition or conversion procedures.
Remove Ash and Grease Safely
Charcoal ash can remain hot long after cooking ends. Allow the grill and fuel to cool completely before removing ash, then use a suitable metal container with a lid according to local disposal guidance.
Clean grease-collection areas regularly. Grease buildup increases fire risk and can affect the grill’s condition.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for seasoning, cleaning, and protecting metal surfaces.
Cook Food to Safe Internal Temperatures
Color and cooking time alone are not reliable indicators of food safety. Use a suitable food thermometer when cooking meat and poultry.
According to FoodSafety.gov, poultry should reach 165°F internally, while ground meats such as ground beef should reach 160°F. Whole cuts of beef, pork, and lamb generally require 145°F followed by the specified three-minute rest.
Place the probe in the thickest appropriate part of the food and follow current food-safety guidance for the product being prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hybrid grill for gas and charcoal cooking?
The Char-Griller Double Play 5650 is our best overall recommendation because it offers separate gas and charcoal cooking chambers, generous primary cooking space, and a convenient side burner. The best alternative depends on your budget, available space, and interest in smoking.
Are hybrid grills worth buying?
Yes, if you regularly use both gas and charcoal. Hybrid grills allow convenient propane cooking alongside traditional charcoal grilling. However, buyers who rarely use one of the fuel systems may get better value from a dedicated single-fuel grill.
Can you use gas and charcoal at the same time in a hybrid grill?
Some independent dual-chamber models support using both cooking sections during the same meal. Convertible designs may require choosing one fuel configuration at a time. Always follow the specific manufacturer’s operating instructions.
Do hybrid grills produce better barbecue flavor?
Charcoal cooking can create a different flavor profile from conventional gas grilling, particularly when food drippings interact with hot fuel and aromatic smoke is involved. However, flavor also depends on cooking temperature, ingredients, fuel, technique, and food preparation.
What is the best hybrid grill for smoking meat?
The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo is our preferred choice for traditional offset smoking because its charcoal-and-wood firebox is included. Nexgrill Oakford 1150 Pro is another option with integrated offset-smoking capability.
Are hybrid grills harder to clean?
They can require more work than a simple gas grill because the gas and charcoal systems create different types of residue. Look for accessible grease collection, removable ash pans, and cooking grates that are easy to maintain.
How much cooking space do I need in a hybrid grill?
Choose based on how many people you usually cook for and which fuel you’ll use most. Compare the primary cooking area of each chamber instead of relying on total square inches, which may include warming racks and additional surfaces.
Is a hybrid grill better than buying separate gas and charcoal grills?
A hybrid is convenient when you want both systems in one unit. Separate grills may offer greater independent cooking capacity, more specialized performance, and easier individual upgrades. Neither arrangement is universally better.
Final Verdict: Which Hybrid Grill Should You Buy?
The best hybrid grills offer meaningful flexibility, but the right purchase depends on how often you plan to use gas, charcoal, and smoking features.
For most backyard cooks, choose the Char-Griller Double Play 5650. Its independent gas and charcoal sections, substantial cooking space, and additional side burner provide a balanced combination for everyday meals and weekend grilling.
If you’re shopping on a smaller budget, the Char-Griller Dual Function E5030 is a practical starting point. It provides genuine dual-fuel functionality without requiring the size or expense of a more elaborate setup.
Barbecue enthusiasts should consider the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo for its included offset smoker. The Nexgrill Oakford 1150 Pro is also worthwhile for households that want a larger combination of gas grilling, charcoal cooking, and smoking.
Choose the Char-Griller FlexFuel Plus if you’ll regularly use a griddle, or the Royal Gourmet ZH3002C if cabinet-style storage is especially important. For a premium outdoor-kitchen installation, the Coyote C3HY50 provides a more specialized stainless-steel option.
Before purchasing, verify the usable space in each cooking chamber, included smoker accessories, fuel compatibility, cleaning requirements, and available installation clearance.
Bottom Line: Choose the Double Play for everyday versatility, Dual Function for value, Canyon Combo for smoking, Oakford for larger gatherings, FlexFuel Plus for griddle cooking, Royal Gourmet for cabinet-style organization, and Coyote for a premium outdoor kitchen. Buy based on the cooking methods you’ll genuinely use, not simply the highest advertised BTU or total cooking area.
Sources
- Char-Griller — Double Play, Dual Function and FlexFuel Plus Official Product Specifications
- Oklahoma Joe’s — Canyon Combo Gas Grill & Offset Smoker Product Documentation
- Nexgrill — Oakford 1150 Pro Official Specifications
- U.S. Fire Administration — Outdoor Fire Safety and Grill Safety Guidance
- FoodSafety.gov — Safe Minimum Internal Temperatures
How we research: Discompare evaluates manufacturer documentation, relevant independent editorial information, safety guidance, and practical buyer needs. We have not performed original hands-on cooking tests of these grills. Specifications, prices, availability, and retailer offers can change. Discompare may earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through retailer or price-comparison links.
Product Groups: Char-Griller Double Play 5650, Char-Griller Dual Function E5030, Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo 24203004, Nexgrill Oakford 1150 Pro 810-0072, Char-Griller FlexFuel Plus CG30281224, Royal Gourmet ZH3002C, Coyote C3HY50 Hybrid Grill
