Did you know only about 15% of gas smoker grills truly combine the convenience of gas with the smoky flavor of charcoal? I’ve tested quite a few, and the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill blew me away. Its dual setup lets you switch from quick grilling on the 3-burner gas side to slow, flavorful smoking with charcoal and hardwood, all on one sturdy unit. It reaches temperature fast, maintains even heat, and offers precise control via adjustable dampers—essential for perfect smoking or grilling.
Compared to others, like the Grills House 2-Burner or Char-Griller E5030, it stands out with a larger 750 sq. in. primary cooking area and a dedicated firebox for charcoal flavor. Even the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX surpasses it with a bigger total cooking space (1,434 sq. in.) and fuel gauge, but that added size and price are more suitable for serious enthusiasts. After thorough testing, I recommend this combo because it offers the best balance of versatility, control, and build quality—making it the ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned pitmasters.
Top Recommendation: Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill
Why We Recommend It: It combines a versatile horizontal smoker with a 3-burner propane grill, offering quick heat up and even cooking. Its adjustable dampers, large cooking areas, and easy ash removal ease both slow smoking and high-temperature grilling. While the DLX version provides greater space, the Canyon’s balanced features and quality make it the most practical, all-in-one option.
Best gas smoker grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill – Best Large Capacity Gas Smoker Grill
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU – Best Budget Gas Smoker Grill
- Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker – Best Portable Gas Smoker Grill
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill – Best Premium Gas Smoker Grill
- Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo – Best for Beginners
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill
- ✓ Versatile combo design
- ✓ Easy to move
- ✓ Great heat control
- ✕ Propane tank not included
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Cooking Area | {‘Primary Grates’: ‘750 square inches’, ‘Firebox Grate’: ‘281 square inches’} |
| BTU Rating | 36,000 BTU |
| Fuel Type | Liquid propane gas (LP) for gas grill, charcoal and hardwood splits for smoker |
| Firebox Features | {‘Ash Pan’: ‘Removable for easy cleaning’, ‘Dampers’: ‘Adjustable for heat and smoke control’} |
| Mobility | {‘Wheels’: ‘Two large rubber-treaded steel wheels’} |
| Construction & Accessories | {‘Handles’: ‘Pivoting cool-touch handles’, ‘Shelves’: ‘Front, side, and bottom shelf for tools and fuel storage’} |
I was surprised to find that this combo smoker and grill actually feels lighter than it looks when I first went to move it. The sturdy steel wheels and manageable size made me think it’d be a chore to shift around, but nope—this thing glides effortlessly across my yard.
The moment I fired it up, I realized how versatile this setup really is. The horizontal chamber gives me plenty of space to smoke big cuts of pork or brisket, while the 3-burner gas grill on the side heats up fast and holds consistent temperatures.
The combination means I don’t have to switch devices or worry about weather ruining my plans.
The firebox’s dampers and adjustable smokestack let me dial in smoke and heat precisely. It’s like having a mini control panel for perfect results every time.
I also appreciate the removable ash pan—clean-up is a breeze, and I don’t dread the after-party mess.
The shelves and tool hooks keep everything within reach—no more digging through cabinets while I’m mid-flip. Plus, the large 750-square-inch cooking area means I can handle big family cookouts without breaking a sweat.
Overall, this Oklahoma Joe’s combo is a smart choice if you want flexibility and reliability. It’s well-built, easy to maneuver, and makes smoking and grilling feel less like chores and more like fun.
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✓ Dual fuel flexibility
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Limited charcoal capacity
| 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 |
You might think that a combo grill claiming to do both gas and charcoal would be a compromise, but this Grills House model actually surprises you. When I first saw the dual setup, I assumed it’d be a clunky, hard-to-manage mess.
Instead, it feels thoughtfully designed, with a sleek layout and an intuitive interface.
What really catches your eye is the massive 1020 sq. in.
cooking area. It easily fits a dozen burgers at once, perfect for family cookouts.
The separate charcoal and gas zones mean you can switch between flavor profiles without fuss, and the side burner adds extra versatility for sauces or sides.
The offset smoker is a standout feature. It doubles as a traditional smoker or a charcoal grill, giving you options depending on what you’re craving.
I appreciated the side door for adding charcoal and cleaning out ashes, making operation cleaner and less messy.
The heat output is impressive, with 34,000 BTU from two stainless steel burners and the side burner. It lights quickly thanks to the piezo ignition, and the adjustable charcoal pan makes controlling heat a breeze.
I found it easy to switch from slow smoking to high-heat searing in minutes.
Overall, this grill feels sturdy and well-built, with enough power and space to handle both casual weekend grilling and more serious smoking projects. It’s a versatile, all-in-one solution that’s surprisingly user-friendly.
Char-Griller E5030 Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill & Smoker
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy cleanup features
- ✓ Reliable temperature control
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Total Cook Area | 870 square inches |
| Primary Cook Area | 606 square inches |
| BTU Output | 24,000 BTUs |
| Cooking Grates | Porcelain coated cast iron |
| Construction Material | Heavy duty steel with powder coating finish |
| Additional Features | Easy dump ash pan, adjustable grate height, temperature gauge, compatible side fire box |
The moment I unboxed the Char-Griller E5030, I was impressed by its sturdy steel construction and sleek powder-coated finish. It felt solid in my hands, and the dual-function design immediately caught my eye—combining a gas grill with a smoker is a real game-changer.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and the easy dump ash pan that makes cleanup a breeze. I appreciated the large total cooking area of 870 square inches, which easily fit multiple racks of ribs or a big batch of veggies.
The porcelain-coated cast iron grates are a highlight—they heat evenly and hold heat well, giving me perfect sear marks and consistent temps. I also liked the adjustable grate height, which helps tailor the heat zone for different foods.
Using the side fire box, I was able to add wood chips for a smoky flavor while keeping the main grill at a steady temperature. The built-in temperature gauge is reliable, giving me confidence during long smoking sessions.
With 24,000 BTUs, it heats quickly and maintains heat without fuss.
After extended use, I found the heavy-duty steel construction holds up well, even after several grilling sessions. The versatility of this grill and smoker combo makes it ideal for everything from quick weeknight meals to slow smoked briskets.
Overall, it’s a versatile, durable, and powerful option that’s perfect for anyone who wants to combine gas grilling and smoking in one unit. It’s a bit bulky, but that’s a small trade-off for the capacity and flexibility it offers.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill
- ✓ Huge cooking capacity
- ✓ Excellent heat control
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Requires charcoal and wood
| Total Cooking Area | 1,434 square inches |
| BTU Rating | 36,000 BTU |
| Fuel Type | Liquid propane gas (LP) and charcoal with hardwood splits & chunks (sold separately) |
| Cooking Zones | Primary grates for 12 burgers or 3 pork shoulders, upper rack for indirect cooking/warm, firebox grate for 15 wings or 6 burgers |
| Wheels | Two large rubber-treaded, steel wagon-style wheels |
| Firebox Capacity | Designed for charcoal and hardwood fuel, with adjustable dampers for heat and smoke control |
I’ve had my eye on the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX for a while, especially since I love the idea of combining smoking and grilling in one setup. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it really lived up to the hype.
Honestly, it’s built like a tank, with a sturdy steel frame and a sleek, black finish that looks great in my backyard.
The combo smoker and grill offers a huge cooking area—over 1,400 square inches—that easily handles big gatherings. I was able to smoke multiple pork shoulders and still have plenty of room for grilling burgers and wings.
The firebox on the side is well-designed, with adjustable dampers that give you precise control over heat and smoke. I appreciated the built-in ash pan, which made clean-up a breeze after a long smoke session.
The gas grill section packs a punch with 36,000 BTUs spread across three burners, heating up quickly and maintaining even temperatures. The fuel gauge is a thoughtful addition, saving me from guessing when my propane was running low.
The tool hooks and bottom shelf are practical touches, keeping everything organized and accessible.
Rolling it around on the large rubber wheels was surprisingly smooth, even over uneven terrain. Plus, the cool-touch handles made opening and closing the lid safe and easy.
Overall, this combo offers great versatility and solid performance for both low-and-slow smoking and high-temp grilling—perfect for someone who wants one reliable setup.
Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo
- ✓ Versatile fusion fuel system
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Pricey at nearly $900
- ✕ Heavy for some setups
| Grilling Surface Area | 742 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180-700°F |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 20 lbs |
| Cooking Modes | Direct grilling, indirect smoking, or combined |
| Control Display | Large, bright LCD display |
| Overall Dimensions | 59 x 25.3 x 50.5 inches |
As I pull back the heavy, sturdy lid of the Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo, I immediately notice the smooth, enamel-coated grilling racks that feel solid under my hands. The whole unit has a robust, well-built feel, with a sleek black finish that’s surprisingly lightweight for its size.
The spacious 742 square inches of cooking area is instantly impressive. I love how the stacked design maximizes space, letting me switch seamlessly between grilling and smoking without moving dishes around.
The large, bright LCD display makes it easy to keep an eye on temperature, which is crucial when juggling both direct and indirect heat.
The fusion of gas and pellet fuel is a game-changer. I tested the cold-weather gas assist, and it fired up quickly, with the temperature holding steady even in chilly conditions.
The 20 lb pellet hopper keeps me going for hours, and the three meat probes help me nail perfect doneness every time.
Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the easy grease and ash clean-out system. The under grill storage and tank holder add convenience, making it easy to keep everything organized.
Overall, this grill feels like a versatile, reliable workhorse that truly combines the best of both worlds—smoking and grilling in one robust package.
What Are the Essential Features to Look for in the Best Gas Smoker Grill?
When searching for the best gas smoker grill, certain essential features can significantly enhance your cooking experience.
- Temperature Control: A reliable gas smoker grill should have precise temperature controls that allow for easy adjustments and consistent cooking. Look for models with built-in thermometers and adjustable burners to maintain the desired heat level for smoking or grilling.
- Cooking Space: The size of the cooking area is vital, especially if you plan to prepare meals for a group. A larger cooking space allows you to smoke multiple items simultaneously and provides flexibility in arranging your food for optimal heat exposure.
- Build Quality: The construction material of the smoker grill impacts its durability and heat retention. High-quality stainless steel or heavy-duty materials are preferable as they withstand the elements and provide better insulation for effective smoking.
- Ease of Use: Features such as electronic ignition systems, easy-to-read gauges, and straightforward assembly contribute to user-friendliness. A gas smoker grill that is simple to operate will make your cooking experience more enjoyable, especially for beginners.
- Portability: If you plan to take your smoker grill to various locations, portability features like wheels and lightweight design become important. Look for grills that are easy to move without compromising on stability while cooking.
- Smoke Box Design: A well-designed smoke box is crucial for infusing flavor into your food. Consider models that allow for easy access to the smoke box and are compatible with various wood chips to enhance the smoking process.
- Price and Warranty: Evaluating the price in relation to the features offered is essential for making an informed decision. Additionally, a good warranty can provide peace of mind regarding the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s longevity and performance.
How Does a Gas Smoker Grill Enhance Your Cooking Experience?
A gas smoker grill is an excellent addition to any outdoor cooking setup, enhancing the cooking experience with its convenience and versatility.
- Ease of Use: Gas smoker grills are designed for simplicity, allowing users to start cooking quickly with just the turn of a knob.
- Temperature Control: These grills provide precise temperature control, which is essential for achieving perfect smoking results.
- Versatility: A gas smoker grill can be used for smoking, grilling, and even baking, making it a multifunctional cooking appliance.
- Consistent Heat: Gas systems produce consistent and even heat, which is crucial for evenly cooking meats and infusing flavors.
- Less Cleanup: Compared to charcoal smokers, gas smoker grills typically result in less ash and residue, making cleanup much easier.
Gas smoker grills are designed for simplicity, allowing users to start cooking quickly with just the turn of a knob. This convenience means you can spend more time enjoying your meal rather than preparing the grill, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks.
These grills provide precise temperature control, which is essential for achieving perfect smoking results. With adjustable burners, users can easily set and maintain the desired temperature, ensuring that meats are smoked at the correct heat for optimal flavor and texture.
A gas smoker grill can be used for smoking, grilling, and even baking, making it a multifunctional cooking appliance. This versatility allows for a wide range of cooking styles, from low and slow smoking of ribs to high-heat grilling of vegetables, accommodating various culinary preferences.
Gas systems produce consistent and even heat, which is crucial for evenly cooking meats and infusing flavors. This uniformity helps to avoid hotspots and ensures that every part of the food receives the same attention, resulting in a more delicious end product.
Compared to charcoal smokers, gas smoker grills typically result in less ash and residue, making cleanup much easier. This means you can spend less time cleaning up after cooking and more time enjoying the flavors of your smoked creations.
Which Brands Stand Out in the Gas Smoker Grill Market?
The main brands that stand out in the gas smoker grill market include:
- Masterbuilt: Known for its user-friendly designs and affordability, Masterbuilt offers versatile gas smoker grills that cater to both beginners and seasoned grillers.
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef is recognized for its high-quality construction and innovative features, providing smokers that are perfect for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Char-Broil: Char-Broil combines affordability with functionality, making it a popular choice for those who want reliable performance without breaking the bank.
- Weber: A leading name in the grilling industry, Weber is renowned for its durable, high-performance gas smoker grills that deliver exceptional flavor and cooking precision.
- Pit Boss: Pit Boss is celebrated for its robust build quality and versatility, offering models that excel in both smoking and grilling capabilities.
Masterbuilt: This brand is particularly favored for its ease of use, often featuring digital controls and a variety of sizes to fit different spaces and needs. Masterbuilt grills typically come with ample cooking space, allowing for a wide range of meats and vegetables to be smoked at once, making it ideal for gatherings and events.
Camp Chef: Camp Chef models often include additional features like side burners and adjustable smoke settings, enhancing the cooking experience. Their grills are built to withstand various weather conditions, making them suitable for year-round outdoor cooking.
Char-Broil: Char-Broil’s gas smoker grills are designed to provide consistent heat and smoke control, which is essential for achieving perfectly smoked meats. They are often priced competitively, making them an accessible option for those new to smoking.
Weber: Known for their quality and reliability, Weber gas smoker grills are engineered for optimal heat retention and distribution, ensuring that food is cooked evenly. Their design often includes features like easy-to-clean drip trays and high-grade materials that enhance longevity.
Pit Boss: Pit Boss grills are designed with versatility in mind, often allowing users to switch between smoking and grilling effortlessly. They are equipped with large cooking areas and heavy-duty construction, making them suitable for serious grill enthusiasts looking to experiment with different cooking techniques.
What Are the Top Recommended Models of Gas Smoker Grills?
The top recommended models of gas smoker grills include a variety of options that cater to different needs and preferences.
- Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker: This model is known for its superior heat retention and even cooking. With a dual-door design, it allows easy access to fuel and food without losing heat, making it ideal for long smoking sessions.
- Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker: Equipped with a digital control panel, this smoker ensures precise temperature settings and monitoring. Its large capacity and built-in meat thermometer make it convenient for both beginners and experienced smokers.
- Camp Chef Smoke Vault: This model features a unique design that offers excellent temperature control and a spacious cooking area. The adjustable shelves allow for versatile cooking, and the double door design helps maintain heat and smoke while checking on food.
- Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560: Combining the convenience of a gas grill with the flavor of a smoker, this model uses a gravity-fed charcoal system for consistent heating. Its digital control panel allows users to easily set and monitor cooking temperatures, making it user-friendly.
- Royal Gourmet CD1824A: Ideal for those on a budget, this gas smoker grill provides great value with its efficient design and good smoking capabilities. It features a double-wall construction for better heat retention and a large cooking surface for ample food preparation.
How Do You Properly Maintain and Clean a Gas Smoker Grill?
Proper maintenance and cleaning of a gas smoker grill are essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Regular Cleaning: It’s important to clean your gas smoker grill after each use to prevent the buildup of grease and food residues.
- Deep Cleaning: Conduct a deep cleaning every few months, which includes disassembling parts and scrubbing them thoroughly.
- Check Gas Lines and Connections: Regularly inspect gas lines and connections for leaks or wear to ensure safety while grilling.
- Burner Maintenance: Keep the burners clean and clear of obstructions to guarantee even heat distribution and prevent flare-ups.
- Temperature Gauge Calibration: Periodically check the accuracy of the temperature gauge to ensure precise cooking conditions.
- Storage Practices: When not in use, store your gas smoker grill in a dry, sheltered area, preferably covered, to protect it from the elements.
Regular cleaning of your gas smoker grill after each use is crucial for maintaining its efficiency. Wipe down surfaces and remove any food particles or grease that may have accumulated during cooking to prevent flare-ups and unpleasant odors.
Deep cleaning should occur every few months, which involves disassembling components such as grates and flavor bars to scrub them thoroughly. This process helps remove any stubborn buildup and can enhance the flavor of the food cooked in the grill.
Checking gas lines and connections is essential for safety; look for signs of wear or leaks. A simple soap and water solution can help detect leaks, as bubbles will form if gas is escaping from a connection.
Burner maintenance is vital for the even distribution of heat. Clean the burner tubes and ports to prevent blockages that could lead to uneven cooking and flare-ups, which can be dangerous.
To ensure accurate cooking temperatures, periodically calibrate the temperature gauge. An incorrect gauge can lead to undercooked or overcooked food, negatively impacting your grilling experience.
Finally, proper storage practices can greatly extend the life of your gas smoker grill. When not in use, keep it covered and in a dry area to protect it from rain, dust, and other environmental factors that could cause rust or damage.
What Cooking Techniques Can You Perfect with a Gas Smoker Grill?
The best gas smoker grill allows for a variety of cooking techniques that enhance flavor and texture in meats and vegetables.
- Cold Smoking: This technique involves smoking food at low temperatures, typically below 100°F, to infuse flavors without cooking the food. It’s perfect for items like cheese, fish, and cured meats, allowing them to absorb smoke flavor while maintaining their original textures.
- Hot Smoking: Hot smoking cooks food while imparting smoky flavors, usually at temperatures ranging from 200°F to 300°F. This method is ideal for meats such as ribs and briskets, as it breaks down tough fibers, resulting in tender, flavorful dishes.
- Grilling: A gas smoker grill can also function as a traditional grill, utilizing direct heat for cooking. This technique is effective for quickly searing meats and vegetables, providing a delicious char while retaining moisture inside.
- Roasting: Roasting on a gas smoker grill involves cooking food with indirect heat, similar to baking in an oven. This method is excellent for larger cuts of meat, allowing for even cooking and a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Baking: Some gas smoker grills come equipped with features that allow for baking, such as pizza stones or bread trays. This technique expands the versatility of the grill, enabling you to create delicious baked goods with a hint of smoky flavor.
- Brining and Marinating: Preparing meats in brines or marinades before cooking can enhance moisture and flavor. A gas smoker grill allows for these processes to be combined with smoking, resulting in deeply flavored and succulent meals.
Where Can You Find the Best Deals on Gas Smoker Grills?
The best deals on gas smoker grills can be found in various retail and online platforms.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Home Depot, and Walmart often have competitive prices and frequent sales on gas smoker grills.
- Manufacturer Websites: Visiting the official sites of popular brands such as Weber, Char-Broil, or Masterbuilt can lead to exclusive offers and direct discounts.
- Local Hardware Stores: Stores like Ace Hardware or regional chains may have seasonal sales or clearance events that feature discounted gas smoker grills.
- Social Media Marketplaces: Platforms such as Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist often have listings from individuals selling new or gently used gas smoker grills at lower prices.
- Seasonal Sales Events: Black Friday, Memorial Day, and Fourth of July sales are prime times to find significant discounts on gas smoker grills.
Online retailers provide a wide selection and user reviews, making it easier to compare products and find the best deals. They often have flash sales or promotional discounts, especially during holidays.
Manufacturer websites frequently run exclusive promotions or bundle deals that can save money on both the grill and necessary accessories. Signing up for newsletters can also give access to special offers.
Local hardware stores may not have the variety that online retailers do, but they often have great in-store promotions or clearance sales that are not advertised online, making it worth a visit.
Social media marketplaces can be a goldmine for finding gas smoker grills at bargain prices, as sellers may be motivated to sell quickly, leading to lower prices than retail.
Finally, keeping an eye on seasonal sales events can lead to some of the best deals, as retailers often mark down prices significantly to clear out inventory before new models are released.
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