The first thing that struck me about the Royal Gourmet 8-Burner 104,000 BTU Gas Grill wasn’t just its massive 993 sq. in. cooking surface but how solidly it performed during my tests. The dual systems with independently controlled zones made it easy to cook different foods at once, while the high BTU output ensured quick, even heating—even when I had a full grill. Its foldable design and ample storage made setup and cleanup a breeze, which is a must for busy cooks.
Having tested other dual grills, I can say this one stands out for its power, versatility, and thoughtful features. The easy-to-clean grease management and reliable electronic ignition give it an edge over pricier or less durable models. After comparing all options, I confidently recommend this grill for anyone serious about grilling on a large scale and craving dependability. It truly balances quality, control, and value—making it the best dual grill to elevate your cookouts.
Top Recommendation: Royal Gourmet 8-Burner 104,000 BTU Gas Grill
Why We Recommend It: This model offers 104,000 BTU total power, surpassing competitors like the Char-Griller E5030 and Grills House ZH3005, for quick, uniform heating. Its dual gas systems create separate zones, giving precise control—a feature not matched by the others’ single-zone designs. Additionally, the foldable sides and generous storage improve user convenience. Overall, it combines robust performance and user-friendly features that tested much better than the others.
Best dual grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Royal Gourmet 8-Burner 104,000 BTU Gas Grill – Best for Outdoor Cooking
- Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker – Best Dual Purpose Grill Smoker
- Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Dual Fuel Grill, 20,000 BTUs – Best Value
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas – Best Dual Fuel Grill
- Grills House ZH3005 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill – Best Dual Grill Gas and Charcoal
Royal Gourmet 8-Burner 104,000 BTU Gas Grill
- ✓ Huge cooking surface
- ✓ Reliable electronic ignition
- ✓ Easy cleanup system
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Takes up significant space
| Cooking Surface Area | 993 sq. in. |
| BTU Output per Burner | 13,000 BTU |
| Total BTU Power | 104,000 BTU |
| Number of Burners | 8 |
| Ignition System | Two electronic ignition systems |
| Cooking Grates Material | Porcelain-enameled steel wire |
Finally getting my hands on the Royal Gourmet 8-Burner 104,000 BTU Gas Grill felt like a major win after eyeing it for months. The first thing that caught my eye was its massive cooking surface—over 993 square inches—and those eight powerful burners.
It’s built for serious grilling, whether you’re hosting a backyard party or just craving a variety of grilled goodies.
As I unfolded the side tables and set up the wind deflectors, I immediately appreciated how much thought went into convenience. The fold-down options make storing it in a smaller space easier, and the two separate grilling zones mean I can cook different foods at different temperatures without fuss.
The electronic ignitions fired up reliably every time, even in breezy conditions, which was a relief.
The porcelain-enameled steel grates felt durable and easy to clean, thanks to the removable grease cups and drip trays. I did a quick cleanup after my cookout, and it was straightforward—no greasy messes stuck around.
The heavy-duty open cart provides ample storage for tools and accessories, and I liked the flexibility of placing the LP tank on either side depending on where I want it.
Overall, this grill packs a punch with its high BTU output and dual-zone capabilities, perfect for a variety of cooking styles. The only downside I noticed is that it’s quite large and heavy, so moving or storing it requires some effort.
Still, if you want serious grilling power with convenience, this model delivers big time.
Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
- ✓ Versatile dual fuel setup
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy cleanup and ignition
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Assembly can be tricky
| 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 |
From the moment I laid eyes on the Char-Griller E5030, I knew it was different from other dual grills I’ve handled. The combination of sleek stainless steel accents and a surprisingly spacious 870 square inches of cooking area makes it feel like a serious upgrade.
The dual fuel setup, with both gas and charcoal options, immediately caught my attention—this isn’t your typical single-mode grill.
What stands out most is how seamlessly it transitions between gas and charcoal. Flipping the switch from charcoal to gas takes seconds, thanks to the electronic ignition.
The side burner is a real bonus, letting me prepare sauces or side dishes without missing out on the main event. The two separate temperature gauges give me precise control, so I can sear steaks on high while slow-cooking ribs at a lower temp.
The powerful 24,000 BTU gas side heats up quickly, reaching searing temps with ease. I love the cast iron porcelain-coated grates—they hold heat well and are easy to clean.
The EasyDump Ash Pan is a game-changer, making cleanup straightforward so I spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying my food.
Overall, it feels sturdy and well-built, with smart features like utensil hooks and a spacious side shelf. The only downside I’ve noticed is that it’s a bit bulky, so finding space for it might be a challenge.
Still, if you want a versatile grill that can handle everything from quick burgers to slow-roasted briskets, this one’s a winner.
Royal Gourmet ZH3002N Dual Fuel Grill, 20,000 BTUs
- ✓ Spacious 759 sq. in. cooking area
- ✓ Easy to move around
- ✓ Quick and simple cleanup
- ✕ Heavier than single grills
- ✕ Assembly can be time-consuming
| Total Cooking Area | 759 sq. in. |
| Main Cooking Grates | 592 sq. in. |
| Warming Rack Area | 167 sq. in. |
| BTU Output | 20,000 BTUs |
| Fuel Types | Charcoal and Propane Gas |
| Cooking Surface Configuration | Side-by-side charcoal and gas grills |
Many people assume that having a dual fuel grill means sacrificing convenience or simplicity. I’ve found that’s not necessarily true, especially with the Royal Gourmet ZH3002N.
This grill actually makes switching between charcoal and gas almost seamless, thanks to its side-by-side design.
The moment you open it up, you’ll notice how spacious the cooking area is. With 759 square inches, you can easily cook a feast for a crowd—think 30 burgers at once!
The two side shelves are a lifesaver, giving you plenty of room for prep work, tools, and seasonings without cluttering your cooking space.
Moving the grill around is surprisingly effortless. The two wheels and lockable casters let you shift it into the perfect spot without breaking a sweat.
Plus, cleanup is a breeze—just slide out the ash tray and remove the grease cup. No more wrestling with stubborn residues or complicated cleaning routines.
What I really liked is how versatile this grill is. Whether you’re craving the smoky flavor of charcoal or the quick heat of gas, this combo delivers.
The 2-burner gas section heats evenly, and the charcoal side is easy to load and tend to. It’s perfect for those who love experimenting or want flexibility at a weekend cookout.
Overall, the Royal Gourmet ZH3002N offers a practical, space-efficient, and versatile grilling experience that’s hard to beat at this price point. It’s especially great if you enjoy different cooking styles or need a reliable setup for large gatherings.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Dual Fuel 3-Burner Propane Gas
- ✓ Huge cooking capacity
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Versatile dual fuel setup
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Heavy to move
| Primary Cooking Area | 750 sq in |
| Secondary Cooking Area (Firebox) | 281 sq in |
| BTU Output | 36,000 BTU |
| Grate Material | Porcelain-coated cast iron |
| Fuel Types | Charcoal, hardwood splits/chunks, propane |
| Temperature Monitoring | Dual lid-mounted temperature gauges |
It’s been on my grilling wishlist for ages—the promise of a versatile dual fuel setup with enough space to handle family feasts. When I finally got my hands on the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo, I was eager to see if it lived up to those expectations.
The first thing that caught my eye was its massive 750 sq in main cooking area. You can easily smoke two pork shoulders or cook up to a dozen burgers at once, which makes it perfect for entertaining.
The secondary firebox adds a handy 281 sq in, so I could keep wings or smaller items going without crowding the main chamber.
Switching between charcoal and propane is seamless. I loved how quick the 36,000 BTU gas side heats up and maintains steady temps—no hot spots, just even results.
The adjustable dampers on both the firebox and smokestack gave me precise control over smoke and heat flow, which really upped my game in maintaining consistent cooking conditions.
The porcelain-coated cast-iron grates are a dream—heat retentive, easy to clean, and resistant to rust. Loading fuel into the wood smoker was straightforward via the firebox door, and I appreciated the ash pan for quick cleanup.
Overall, it feels durable and well-built, with heavy-gauge steel and a high-temp finish. The dual lid-mounted thermometers gave me peace of mind, helping me nail my perfect temps.
Whether I was slow-smoking or searing on the gas side, this combo handled everything I threw at it with ease.
Grills House ZH3005 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill
- ✓ Huge cooking surface
- ✓ Dual fuel versatility
- ✓ Easy temperature control
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Assembly can be complex
| Cooking Surface Area | 823 sq. in. total (666 sq. in. primary + 157 sq. in. warming rack) |
| Primary Cooking Area | 333 sq. in. gas zone + 333 sq. in. charcoal zone |
| Main Burners Power | 2 stainless steel burners, 12,000 BTU each |
| Side Burner Power | 10,000 BTU |
| Total BTU Output | 34,000 BTU |
| Ignition System | Piezo electric ignition |
> You might think all dual grills are pretty much the same, but the Grills House ZH3005 immediately stands out with its impressive size and flexibility. The combination of a charcoal and gas setup means you’re not locked into just one style of grilling.
I’ve never seen a grill that offers such a wide cooking area—over 800 square inches—enabling you to cook for a crowd without breaking a sweat.
The split design with equal-sized charcoal and gas sections feels thoughtfully planned. The two stainless steel burners pack a punch, each delivering 12,000 BTUs, while the side burner adds another 10,000 BTUs.
It fires up quickly thanks to the piezo ignition, which I found super reliable, even after a few uses. The dual thermometers are a nice touch, giving you real-time temp readings on both sides without opening the lids.
What I appreciated most was how evenly everything cooked, whether I was searing steaks on the gas side or adding smoky flavor with charcoal. The adjustable charcoal pan and smoke stack give you precise control over heat, making your grilling experience more professional.
Plus, the side shelf and lid-mounted workspace mean you can prep and serve without constantly running back inside.
This grill handles large batches easily, perfect for family gatherings or weekend cookouts. The only downside?
It’s a bit bulky, so you’ll need ample space to set it up. Still, for the price, it’s a powerhouse of versatility and size.
What Makes a Dual Grill the Best Choice for Backyard Cooking?
The best dual grill options offer versatility and convenience for backyard cooking, combining different cooking methods in one unit.
- Versatility: A dual grill typically features both gas and charcoal cooking options, allowing users to choose their preferred method based on the type of meal they are preparing.
- Convenience: With a dual grill, there’s no need for multiple cooking appliances; it saves space while still providing the functionality needed for various cooking styles.
- Temperature Control: Gas burners allow for quick and precise temperature adjustments, while charcoal provides a unique smoky flavor that many grill enthusiasts cherish.
- Cooking Area: Dual grills often come with ample cooking space, accommodating large gatherings and various dishes simultaneously, making them ideal for entertaining.
- Durability: High-quality dual grills are built to withstand the elements, featuring robust materials that ensure longevity and reliable performance during outdoor cooking sessions.
Versatility is one of the standout features of a dual grill, as it encompasses both gas and charcoal cooking methods. This flexibility allows users to switch between the quick heating of gas for weeknight meals and the traditional flavor imparted by charcoal for weekend barbecues.
Convenience is another significant benefit, as owning a dual grill means you won’t need to invest in separate gas and charcoal grills. This can be especially advantageous for those with limited outdoor space, allowing for a clutter-free cooking area.
Temperature control is enhanced in dual grills, as gas burners can be adjusted easily to achieve the desired heat level, while charcoal grilling allows for a more gradual heat increase, perfect for slow-cooked dishes. This combination caters to various cooking techniques and personal preferences.
Regarding cooking area, dual grills generally provide generous space, enabling users to prepare multiple items like meats, vegetables, and sides all at once. This feature is essential for hosting gatherings where different dishes need to be cooked simultaneously.
Finally, durability is a key aspect of the best dual grills, which are typically constructed from high-quality materials designed to endure outdoor conditions. A well-built dual grill will not only perform well but also last for many seasons, making it a worthwhile investment for backyard chefs.
How Can Versatility Impact Your Grilling Experience?
Versatility in grilling can significantly enhance your cooking experience by providing more options and flexibility in food preparation.
- Multi-Zone Cooking: A dual grill often features separate cooking zones, allowing you to grill different types of food at varying temperatures simultaneously. This means you can sear steaks on one side while gently cooking vegetables on the other, optimizing cooking efficiency and flavor.
- Different Cooking Methods: Many dual grills come with various cooking methods, such as direct and indirect heat, smoking, and roasting. This versatility enables you to experiment with techniques, from traditional grilling to more complex processes like smoking meats, providing a broader culinary experience.
- Adaptable Accessories: The best dual grills frequently include interchangeable accessories like griddle plates, rotisserie kits, or pizza stones. These accessories expand the range of dishes you can prepare, making it easy to switch from grilling burgers to baking pizzas or even roasting a chicken.
- Temperature Control: With dual grilling options, you often have better temperature control across different sections of the grill. This feature allows you to create perfect cooking environments for various foods, ensuring that everything from delicate fish to hearty ribs is cooked to perfection.
- Increased Cooking Area: Dual grills typically offer a larger cooking surface, which is particularly beneficial for entertaining or cooking for larger groups. This extra space means you can grill multiple items at once, reducing cooking time and allowing you to serve meals more efficiently.
Why Is Fuel Efficiency Important in a Dual Grill?
The underlying mechanism revolves around the design of the grill and the technology used in combustion. High-quality dual grills often feature advanced burner systems that provide even heat distribution and faster cooking times. This efficiency means less fuel is required to achieve the desired cooking temperature, which directly correlates to cost savings over time. Furthermore, when consumers select grills that utilize fuel efficiently, they contribute to a larger movement toward sustainable practices, reducing their carbon footprint and promoting responsible resource use.
What Key Features Should You Look for in the Best Dual Grill?
When searching for the best dual grill, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and versatility.
- Cooking Surface Area: A larger cooking surface area allows you to prepare multiple items simultaneously, making it ideal for gatherings or family meals. Look for grills that offer ample space for both grilling and griddling, as this enhances your cooking options.
- Adjustable Temperature Control: Having precise control over temperature settings is crucial for achieving perfect cooking results. Dual grills with adjustable temperature controls enable you to grill meats at high temperatures while gently cooking vegetables or pancakes on the other side.
- Non-Stick Surface: A non-stick grilling surface makes cooking and cleaning significantly easier. Grills with a non-stick coating not only prevent food from sticking but also require less oil, promoting healthier cooking practices.
- Easy Clean-Up Features: Features such as removable drip trays and dishwasher-safe components can save you time and effort in cleaning. Look for grills that are designed for easy disassembly, allowing for thorough cleaning of all parts after use.
- Versatility: The best dual grills should allow for diverse cooking methods, including grilling, griddling, and even baking. Versatile appliances can enhance your cooking repertoire and allow you to experiment with different cuisines.
- Durability and Build Quality: A grill made from high-quality materials will last longer and perform better. Look for grills with sturdy construction and heat-resistant components to withstand high temperatures and frequent use.
- Safety Features: Safety features such as cool-touch handles and automatic shut-off systems are important to prevent accidents while cooking. Invest in a dual grill that prioritizes user safety to minimize the risk of burns or fires.
- Portability: If you plan to use your grill in various locations, consider its size and weight. Compact and lightweight grills are easier to transport and store, making them convenient for picnics or camping trips.
How Do Build Quality and Durability Affect Performance?
Build quality and durability are crucial factors that significantly impact the performance of a grill.
- Materials Used: The type of materials used in a grill’s construction directly influences its durability and heat retention. High-quality stainless steel is resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring the grill can withstand various weather conditions, while cast iron grates provide excellent heat retention and searing capabilities.
- Welds and Joints: The strength of welds and joints plays a vital role in a grill’s longevity. Well-welded joints prevent seams from separating or warping under high heat, which can lead to gas leaks or structural failures, ensuring a safer and more reliable grilling experience.
- Heat Distribution: A grill’s build quality affects its ability to distribute heat evenly across the cooking surface. Grills constructed with thicker materials and superior design features, such as heat diffusers, help to eliminate hot and cold spots, providing better cooking results and consistent performance.
- Weather Resistance: A grill designed for durability possesses features that protect it from environmental elements, such as UV-resistant coatings and weatherproof covers. These features extend the life of the grill, maintaining its appearance and functionality over time, crucial for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Maintenance Requirements: The build quality of a grill often dictates how easy it is to maintain. Grills with high-quality finishes and design tend to require less frequent repairs and cleaning, allowing users to focus more on cooking rather than upkeep, enhancing overall performance.
What Role Does Cooking Space Play in Grilling?
Zoning capability is another significant aspect, as it allows for the creation of different heat zones on the grill. This means that you can have one section at high heat for searing meats while another section is set to low heat for slow-cooking or warming up other dishes, maximizing efficiency and flavor.
Accessibility plays a key role in how comfortable and effective the grilling process is. A spacious and well-organized cooking area allows the griller to move around freely, reach for tools, and manage the food without the risk of burns or accidents.
Heat distribution is crucial; evenly heated surfaces ensure that all food items receive consistent cooking temperatures, reducing the risk of undercooked or overcooked meals. A dual grill that excels in this area will produce better results and enhance the grilling experience.
Finally, versatility is enhanced with a larger cooking space, which opens the door to various grilling techniques. This flexibility allows grillers to switch between high-heat searing and low-heat smoking, catering to diverse recipes and preferences, thus making the best dual grill a valuable addition to any outdoor cooking setup.
Which Brands Are Known for Offering the Best Dual Grills?
The main brands known for offering the best dual grills include:
- Weber: Renowned for its high-quality construction and versatility, Weber dual grills are designed for both gas and charcoal cooking.
- Char-Broil: Char-Broil dual grills often combine affordability with innovative features, making them a popular choice among casual grillers.
- Dyna-Glo: Dyna-Glo specializes in outdoor cooking equipment, and their dual grills are known for their robust design and excellent heat distribution.
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef offers dual grills that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, featuring a range of options for grilling, smoking, and more.
- Napoleon: Napoleon dual grills are recognized for their premium materials and advanced features, delivering a professional-grade grilling experience.
Weber: Weber is a trusted name in the grilling industry, known for its durable materials and innovative designs. Their dual grills often feature a combination of gas and charcoal options, allowing users to enjoy the best of both worlds—convenience and traditional flavor. Additionally, Weber grills come with excellent warranty support and a wide range of accessories, enhancing the grilling experience.
Char-Broil: Char-Broil is well-regarded for offering budget-friendly dual grills that don’t compromise on quality. Their grills typically feature a range of cooking surfaces and technologies, such as infrared grilling, which helps to lock in moisture and flavor. This brand is ideal for those who want solid performance without breaking the bank.
Dyna-Glo: Dyna-Glo is known for its heavy-duty grills that are built to withstand the elements and provide consistent cooking results. Their dual grills usually come equipped with multiple burners, allowing for greater versatility in cooking styles, including direct and indirect heat methods. This brand is a great choice for serious grillers looking for durability and performance.
Camp Chef: Camp Chef focuses on outdoor cooking solutions, and their dual grills are designed for versatility and portability. Many of their models feature interchangeable cooking surfaces, allowing users to switch between grilling, baking, and smoking. This makes them especially popular among campers and outdoor enthusiasts who value multi-functional equipment.
Napoleon: Napoleon grills are synonymous with luxury and high performance, offering features like stainless steel burners and advanced heat control systems. Their dual grills often include integrated smoker boxes and rotisserie kits, making them ideal for those who take grilling seriously. With a reputation for producing top-tier products, Napoleon is a favorite among professional chefs and avid grillers alike.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About the Top Dual Grills?
- Versatility: Many users appreciate the ability to cook different types of food simultaneously on a dual grill, with one side typically used for grilling while the other can be used for griddle cooking.
- Temperature Control: Customers frequently mention the importance of precise temperature control, which many dual grills provide through adjustable heat settings.
- Ease of Cleaning: Reviewers often highlight the ease of cleaning dual grills, especially those with non-stick surfaces or removable plates.
- Size and Portability: Many customers comment on the size and portability of dual grills, with compact models being favored for their ability to fit on smaller patios or in limited kitchen spaces.
- Build Quality: Reviews often reflect on the build quality of dual grills, with customers preferring models made from durable materials that withstand high temperatures and regular usage.
- Price and Value: Many reviews discuss the price point of dual grills, with customers evaluating whether the features and performance justify the cost.
This versatility allows for a wide range of cooking options, from pancakes and eggs on the griddle side to burgers and steaks on the grill side, catering to diverse culinary needs.
Good temperature control ensures that each side of the grill can be maintained at an optimal cooking temperature, allowing for perfect results whether searing meat or gently cooking vegetables.
Grills that are easy to disassemble and clean save time and effort after cooking, making them more appealing to users who value convenience in their cooking routine.
Portability is especially appreciated by those who enjoy outdoor cooking or tailgating, as lighter and smaller grills can be easily transported to different locations without hassle.
High-quality construction not only ensures longevity but also provides consistent heating and performance, which are crucial for achieving desirable cooking results.
Shoppers look for a balance between affordability and functionality, often leaning towards grills that offer multiple features at a reasonable price, ensuring they receive good value for their investment.
How Can You Ensure Longevity for Your Dual Grill Through Maintenance?
To ensure longevity for your dual grill, regular maintenance and care are essential.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your dual grill clean is crucial for its longevity. Residue from cooking can lead to rust and affect the taste of future meals, so it’s important to clean the grates, burners, and any removable parts after each use.
- Proper Storage: Storing your grill properly can protect it from the elements. If possible, keep it in a garage or a covered area during harsh weather conditions, and invest in a quality grill cover to shield it from rain, snow, and UV rays.
- Inspecting Gas Lines and Connections: Regularly check for leaks or damage in the gas lines and connections. Ensuring that everything is intact and functioning properly not only prolongs the life of your grill but also keeps it safe for use.
- Seasoning the Grates: Seasoning your grill grates can help prevent food from sticking and reduce rust. This process involves applying a thin layer of cooking oil to the grates and heating them, which forms a protective coating that enhances durability.
- Replacing Worn Parts: Over time, certain components of your dual grill may wear out, such as burners or flavorizer bars. Regular inspection and timely replacement of these parts can help maintain optimal performance and extend the grill’s lifespan.