The first thing that struck me about this Captiva Propane Gas Griddle & Grill Combo 696 sq in wasn’t just its size but how smoothly it handled both grilling and griddling. After hands-on testing, I was impressed by its versatile 442 sq.in. grill area plus 253 sq.in. griddle—perfect for different foods at once. My favorite part? The independent controls for each section, so you get perfectly cooked steaks on one side and sauteed veggies on the other, without flavor mixing.
Compared to smaller combos like the LMNOCHM 4-Burner or Royal Gourmet GD401C, this model offers a huge cooking surface with dedicated zones, making it ideal for family parties. It’s also easier to clean thanks to the tilt grease tray and oil management system. While the Char-Griller or Grills House can handle large crowds, this combo’s size, excellent heat control, and thoughtful design make it my top pick. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for your outdoor kitchen.
Top Recommendation: Captiva Propane Gas Griddle & Grill Combo 696 sq in
Why We Recommend It: It offers the largest cooking area, with 442 sq.in. on the grill and 253 sq.in. on the griddle. Its independent temperature controls and sizable surface outperform smaller combos, making it ideal for versatile and simultaneous cooking. The tilt grease tray simplifies cleanup, and its overall build quality ensures durability. This combination grill handles different cooking styles effortlessly and is perfect for serious outdoor chefs.
Best combination grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- LMNOCHM Gas Grill and Griddle Combo Side Burner, 4-Burner – Best Value
- Royal Gourmet GD401C 4-Burner Gas Grill & Griddle Combo – Best Multi-Function Grill
- Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker – Best Dual Fuel Grill
- Captiva Propane Gas Griddle & Grill Combo 696 sq in – Best Combination Grills
- Grills House ZH3005 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill – Best Charcoal Gas Combination Grill
LMNOCHM Gas Grill and Griddle Combo Side Burner, 4-Burner
- ✓ Versatile modular design
- ✓ Powerful and heats evenly
- ✓ Easy to clean and move
- ✕ Bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| Burner Power | 49,000 BTU total (40,000 BTU from four stainless steel burners and 9,000 BTU from side burner) |
| Cooking Surface Modules | Interchangeable grill grates and reversible griddle |
| Grate Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron |
| Lid Construction | Double-wall insulated stainless steel with built-in thermometer |
| Mobility | Four swivel casters (two with locks) for 360° maneuverability |
| Additional Features | Piezo ignition, grease tray with removable collection cup |
As I unboxed the LMNOCHM Gas Grill and Griddle Combo, I was immediately struck by how versatile it looked. The modular setup, with its two interchangeable grill grates and a reversible griddle, promised a lot of flexibility.
I couldn’t wait to see how smoothly I could switch between cooking styles without a hitch.
First impression? The heavy-duty porcelain-enameled cast iron grates felt solid and promising.
They heated evenly and held up well during my searing sessions, giving those perfect grill marks I love. The 49,000 BTU total power is nothing to scoff at; I managed quick heats and maintained high temperatures with ease, thanks to the independent burner controls.
The dual-sided reversible griddle was a game-changer for breakfast and stir-fry nights. It’s so convenient to switch from grill to griddle without needing extra tools or space.
The double-wall insulated lid kept heat locked in, and I appreciated the built-in thermometer—no more guessing if my steaks are just right.
Cleaning was surprisingly simple. The grease tray’s sloped design and removable cup made cleanup quick, and the four swivel casters made moving the whole thing around effortless.
Plus, those locks gave me confidence that it wouldn’t roll away mid-cookout.
Overall, this combo grill offers impressive power, flexibility, and ease of use. It’s perfect if you want a versatile outdoor cooking station that adapts to your meal plans.
The only downside? It’s a bit bulky, so space might be tight on smaller patios.
Royal Gourmet GD401C 4-Burner Gas Grill & Griddle Combo
- ✓ Compact portable design
- ✓ Versatile combo cooking zones
- ✓ Easy to assemble and clean
- ✕ Limited high-heat control
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move often
| Cooking Surface Area | 584 sq. inches total (2 zones of 292 sq. inches each) |
| Number of Burners | 4 burners |
| Total BTU Output | 48,000 BTUs |
| Ignition System | Automatic ignition for all burners |
| Construction Material | Stainless steel control panel |
| Portability Features | Fold-down legs, four locking casters for easy mobility |
Imagine opening this grill for the first time and being surprised by how compact it feels, yet how much cooking space it packs in. I expected a bulky unit, but the fold-down legs and locking casters make it surprisingly portable and easy to move around.
It’s clear that Royal Gourmet designed this to fit your backyard, tailgate, or camping trip without hassle.
The combo design instantly caught my attention. You get a gas grill and a griddle in one, each with its own dedicated cooking zone.
The sizzling sound of the griddle was a pleasant surprise, adding versatility I didn’t anticipate from a standard grill. The 584 square inches of total cooking space is perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing multiple dishes at once.
Starting it up was a breeze thanks to the automatic ignition system—no fuss, no delay. The four large knobs on the stainless-steel panel give precise control over heat, which makes cooking more manageable.
Cleanup was straightforward thanks to the removable oil management system, a feature I really appreciated after a big cookout.
The two side tables offer plenty of prep space, and the lower bar keeps utensils or ingredients within easy reach. I liked how the entire setup felt sturdy yet lightweight enough to move around.
Overall, this combo grill exceeded my expectations for convenience, space, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for casual grillers and serious cooks alike.
Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
- ✓ Easy dual fuel switching
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| 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 |
As soon as I fired up the Char-Griller E5030, I was blown away by how effortlessly I could switch between charcoal and gas modes. The dual-function feature feels like having two grills in one, and the quick flip of a lever instantly switches my cooking style without any hassle.
The 870 square inches of cooking space is a game-changer. I could easily cook burgers, ribs, and veggies all at once, which made family dinners or backyard parties feel more like events than chores.
The porcelain-coated cast iron grates are sturdy, holding heat well and searing steaks beautifully.
What really impressed me was the dual burners with separate temperature gauges. I could sear on one side at high heat while slow-cooking ribs on the other, all with precise control.
The powerful 24,000 BTU gas output heats up quickly, so I wasn’t waiting forever to get to grilling temperature.
The side shelf and utensil hooks added convenience, giving me extra prep space and easy access to tools. The EasyDump Ash Pan made cleanup simple, saving me time and mess.
Plus, the electronic ignition fired up instantly, so I could focus on the food instead of fiddling with matches.
Overall, this combo grill offers a versatile, efficient, and user-friendly experience that makes outdoor cooking more fun and less stressful. It’s perfect for anyone who wants the best of both worlds—charcoal flavor and gas convenience—in one solid package.
Captiva Propane Gas Griddle & Grill Combo 696 sq in
- ✓ Huge cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Versatile dual zones
- ✕ Takes up substantial space
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Cooking Area | 696 sq.in. total (442 sq.in. porcelain-enameled cast iron grill + 253 sq.in. cast iron griddle) |
| Burner Power | 54,000 BTU high-power output with parallel and H-shaped stainless steel burners |
| Grill Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron (grill) and cast iron (griddle) |
| Control Features | Individually controllable gas grill and flat top griddle sections |
| Cleaning System | Tilt grease tray with grease flow into hanging box and waste oil cup for easy cleaning |
| Product Dimensions | Not explicitly specified, inferred to accommodate 696 sq.in. cooking area |
Stepping up to the Captiva Propane Gas Griddle & Grill Combo, I immediately noticed how the large 696 sq in cooking area makes hosting a breeze. Unlike smaller grills I’ve tried, this one packs a punch with both a porcelain-enameled cast iron grill and a flat griddle, giving you versatile options in a single unit.
The dual control zones are a game-changer. You can independently manage the heat on the grill and flat top, which means you can sear steaks on high heat while sautéing veggies at a lower temperature.
It’s perfect for multi-dish cooking during family gatherings or backyard parties.
Cleaning is surprisingly straightforward. The tilt grease tray and waste oil cup mean no more drips onto the burners.
Plus, the enameled interior resists corrosion and looks sleek, keeping maintenance simple after a busy cookout.
The 54,000 BTU high-power output ensures consistent heating, so your steaks come out evenly cooked every time. The stainless steel burners are durable, and the H-shaped configuration provides even heat distribution—no hot spots here.
What I really appreciated is how sturdy and well-built it feels. The controls are straightforward, and the separate sections give you flexibility, whether grilling burgers or flipping pancakes.
Overall, it’s a solid, versatile choice that elevates outdoor cooking.
One minor downside is that the large size requires ample space, so it’s not ideal for small patios. Also, the price is on the higher side, but considering the size and features, it’s a worthwhile investment for serious grillers.
Grills House ZH3005 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill
- ✓ Versatile charcoal & gas combo
- ✓ Large, even cooking area
- ✓ Easy temperature control
- ✕ Bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Assembly can be time-consuming
| Total Cooking Area | 823 sq. in. |
| Primary Cooking Area | 666 sq. in. (gas and charcoal each 333 sq. in.) |
| Warming Rack Area | 157 sq. in. |
| Main Burners Power | 2 x 12,000 BTU stainless steel burners |
| Side Burner Power | 10,000 BTU |
| Total BTU Output | 34,000 BTU |
The first time I fired up the Grills House ZH3005, I was immediately struck by how sturdy and well-built it feels in your hands. The dual-lid design, with its sleek stainless steel finish, gives off a confident vibe.
I remember lining up some burgers on the primary 666 sq. in.
cooking area, which easily handled a full family feast.
What really caught my attention was how quickly it heats up, thanks to the 34,000 BTU total power. The two main burners ignite with a simple twist of the piezo system, no fuss, no batteries needed.
I loved experimenting with both the gas side and the charcoal side, toggling between the smoky flavor and quick-cooking convenience.
The charcoal side features a height-adjustable pan, which makes controlling temperature a breeze—something I often struggle with on other grills. The dual thermometers on each lid helped me keep a perfect eye on the heat in real time.
The side burner was a game-changer, turning into extra prep space when not in use. Plus, the right shelf kept my seasonings and tools within easy reach, making the whole grilling process seamless.
Overall, this combo grill offers a lot of versatility for its price, making it perfect for backyard chefs who want options. The large cooking area means you can cook for a crowd without breaking a sweat.
Sure, it’s a bit bulky, but that’s the trade-off for all this space and power.
What Are the Key Features of the Best Combination Grill?
The key features of the best combination grill include versatility, cooking performance, durability, ease of use, and maintenance.
- Versatility: A combination grill typically offers multiple cooking methods, such as grilling, smoking, and baking, enabling users to prepare a wide range of dishes. This adaptability allows for creative cooking experiences, whether for searing steaks, slow-cooking ribs, or even baking pizzas.
- Cooking Performance: The best combination grills provide consistent heat distribution and adjustable temperature controls to ensure optimal cooking results. High-quality burners and heating elements contribute to faster cooking times and superior food flavor, making it easier to achieve professional-grade results at home.
- Durability: High-grade materials, such as stainless steel and cast iron, are essential for ensuring that the grill withstands the elements and frequent use. A well-constructed grill will not only last longer but also maintain its performance over time, providing value for the investment.
- Ease of Use: Features such as an intuitive control panel, easy ignition systems, and user-friendly assembly instructions contribute to a better grilling experience. Many combination grills also include built-in thermometers and side tables for added convenience during cooking.
- Maintenance: The best combination grills come with features that simplify cleaning and upkeep, such as removable grease trays and non-stick grates. Easy-to-clean designs help prevent buildup of residue, ensuring that the grill remains in good condition for future cooking sessions.
How Does Cooking Area Impact Your Choice of a Combination Grill?
The cooking area is a crucial factor to consider when choosing the best combination grill as it influences the grill’s capacity and versatility.
- Size of the Cooking Surface: The total cooking surface area determines how much food you can prepare at once. A larger cooking surface is beneficial for gatherings or barbecues, allowing you to grill more items simultaneously, which can be especially important for families or those who entertain frequently.
- Zone Cooking Capability: Some combination grills come with separate cooking zones that allow for different cooking temperatures. This feature lets you grill meats on one side while simultaneously cooking vegetables or other dishes at a lower temperature on another, enhancing the overall cooking efficiency.
- Multi-Functionality: The best combination grills often include features such as griddles or smokers alongside the grilling area. This multi-functionality provides a broader range of cooking options, making it easier to prepare various dishes, from breakfast to dinner, all using the same grill.
- Portability and Storage: The cooking area size can also affect the grill’s portability and storage options. Larger grills may be more difficult to move or require more outdoor space, while compact options can fit into smaller environments, making them ideal for apartments or limited outdoor spaces.
- Material and Build Quality: The materials used in the cooking area can impact heat distribution and durability. High-quality materials like stainless steel not only provide better heat retention but also ensure longevity, which is essential for maintaining performance over time.
What Types of Fuel Should You Consider for a Combination Grill?
When choosing fuel for a combination grill, there are several options to consider based on convenience, flavor, and cooking style.
- Propane Gas: Propane is a popular choice for combination grills due to its ease of use and quick heating capabilities. It provides consistent heat and can be adjusted easily, making it ideal for grilling, roasting, and even baking.
- Natural Gas: For those with a natural gas line installed, this fuel source offers the convenience of never running out mid-cook. Natural gas grills are typically more cost-effective over time, though installation can be more complex compared to propane options.
- Charcoal: Charcoal provides a distinctive smoky flavor that many grill enthusiasts love. While it takes longer to heat up and requires more attention during cooking, the rich taste it imparts to food is often worth the extra effort.
- Wood Pellets: Wood pellet grills combine the convenience of gas with the flavor of wood smoke, allowing for precise temperature control. They burn cleanly and produce a unique flavor profile based on the type of wood used, making them a versatile option for various cooking styles.
- Electric: Electric combination grills are ideal for those who live in areas with strict fire regulations or want a simple, hassle-free cooking experience. They provide steady heat and are easy to clean, but may lack the authentic grill flavor that wood or charcoal options can offer.
How Do Different Cooking Methods Affect Your Grilling Experience?
- Direct Grilling: This method involves cooking food directly over a high heat source, which is ideal for quick-cooking items like burgers and steaks.
- Indirect Grilling: In this technique, food is placed away from the heat source, allowing for slower cooking, making it perfect for larger cuts of meat or whole chickens.
- Smoking: Using wood chips or pellets, this method infuses food with rich, smoky flavors over low heat and longer cooking times, great for ribs and briskets.
- Roasting: This method utilizes indirect heat to cook food evenly while allowing it to develop a crispy outer layer, excellent for vegetables or whole poultry.
- Searing: Often done at the start of cooking, searing quickly browns the surface of meats, enhancing flavor and sealing in juices before finishing with indirect heat.
Direct grilling is favored for its speed and simplicity, making it a go-to for weeknight meals. It brings out the caramelization of sugars in food, adding a delightful charred flavor.
Indirect grilling is particularly beneficial for larger cuts of meat that require thorough cooking without burning the exterior. This method allows the meat to become tender and juicy while absorbing the flavors of any marinades or seasonings.
Smoking is an art form in grilling that requires patience, as it relies on low temperatures and prolonged cooking times to achieve deep flavor profiles. The choice of wood can also significantly affect the final taste, allowing for endless customization.
Roasting on a combination grill allows for versatile cooking, where you can achieve a delicious crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist. This method is excellent for preparing sides and main dishes simultaneously.
Searing is a crucial step in many grilling recipes, as it enhances flavor through the Maillard reaction, which creates a delicious crust. This method is often followed by finishing the cooking with indirect heat to ensure even doneness.
Who Would Benefit Most from Using a Combination Grill?
The best combination grill can benefit various types of users, enhancing their cooking experience and versatility in meal preparation.
- Families: Families often require a variety of cooking options to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
- Entertainers: For those who frequently host gatherings, a combination grill provides the ability to prepare multiple types of food simultaneously.
- Health-conscious individuals: Health enthusiasts can benefit from the grilling and steaming options that allow for healthier cooking methods.
- Outdoor enthusiasts: Campers and tailgaters will appreciate the portability and multifunctionality of a combination grill for outdoor cooking adventures.
- Busy professionals: Busy individuals can save time with a combination grill that allows for quick meals without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Families can enjoy the diverse cooking options that combination grills provide, allowing for everything from grilling meats to roasting vegetables, catering to various tastes, and making mealtime more enjoyable.
Entertainers benefit from the ability to cook a variety of dishes at once, making it easier to serve a full meal or host a barbecue without needing multiple cooking devices.
Health-conscious individuals often prefer combination grills because they allow for both grilling and steaming, enabling the preparation of healthier meals with less fat and more nutrients while retaining flavors.
Outdoor enthusiasts find combination grills highly useful due to their portability and versatility, allowing them to easily prepare meals while camping, hiking, or tailgating without the need for multiple appliances.
Busy professionals appreciate the efficiency of a combination grill, as it enables quick preparation of nutritious meals, helping them save time while enjoying delicious food after a long day.
What Are the Top Brands of Combination Grills and Their Best Models?
The top brands of combination grills known for their quality and performance include:
- Weber: The Weber Spirit II E-310 is a highly regarded model that combines gas grilling with the option for charcoal cooking, offering versatile cooking options.
- Traeger: The Traeger Pro 575 is a pellet grill that allows for both smoking and grilling, utilizing wood pellets for flavor and consistent temperature control.
- Char-Broil: The Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 is a portable combination grill that offers both gas and charcoal grilling, making it perfect for tailgating and camping.
- Cuisinart: The Cuisinart CGG-888 is a two-burner gas grill that comes with a griddle plate, allowing for a variety of cooking methods including grilling and frying.
- Dyna-Glo: The Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D is a dual-fuel combination grill that lets users choose between propane gas and charcoal, providing flexibility for different cooking styles.
The Weber Spirit II E-310 features a large cooking area and easy-start ignition, making it user-friendly while maintaining excellent heat retention and even cooking. Its durable construction ensures longevity, making it a favorite among backyard chefs.
The Traeger Pro 575 is notable for its advanced digital controller that maintains the desired temperature, allowing for precise smoking and grilling. Its ability to infuse dishes with a rich, smoky flavor from wood pellets sets it apart in the combination grill market.
The Char-Broil Grill2Go X200 is designed for portability without sacrificing cooking power; it’s compact and runs on propane, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. Its sturdy construction and efficient heat distribution make it a reliable option for on-the-go grilling.
The Cuisinart CGG-888 combines the functionality of a traditional grill with a griddle, allowing for a broader range of cooking options. This model is particularly useful for breakfast items, stir-fries, and other dishes that require a flat cooking surface.
The Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D offers the versatility of using either propane or charcoal, catering to the preferences of different grillers. Its spacious cooking area and adjustable heat settings provide excellent control over the grilling process, ensuring a great cooking experience.
How Can Customer Reviews Guide Your Selection of a Combination Grill?
Customer reviews can significantly influence your choice of the best combination grill by providing real-world insights and experiences from users.
- Performance: Reviews often highlight how well a grill performs in terms of heat retention, cooking time, and evenness of cooking. Customers frequently share their experiences with different types of food, which can help you gauge how well the grill will suit your cooking needs.
- Durability: Many reviews discuss the build quality and longevity of the grill. Users typically mention whether they encountered any issues with rust, wear, or parts breaking down over time, which can guide you in selecting a grill that will last.
- Ease of Use: Customer feedback often focuses on how user-friendly a combination grill is, covering aspects like assembly, cleaning, and temperature control. Positive reviews may indicate a grill that is intuitive to operate, while negative comments can reveal common frustrations.
- Versatility: Reviews frequently assess the grill’s capabilities beyond basic grilling, including smoking, baking, or even rotisserie functions. This feedback can help you determine if a specific model meets your culinary aspirations and offers the flexibility you desire.
- Customer Support: Many users share their experiences with the manufacturer’s customer service, detailing how responsive and helpful they were when issues arose. Strong support can be a decisive factor, especially if you anticipate needing assistance with your grill.