Nearly 70 % of backyard chefs say a side burner is the missing piece that turns ordinary grilling into a full‑course feast. Imagine the smoky depth of charcoal paired with the instant heat of gas for sauces, veggies, or a quick sear—all on one sturdy, rust‑proof frame. You’ll appreciate adjustable vents, even heat diffusion, and wheels that let you reposition the grill in seconds. Curious which models balance power, space, and portability best?
| Propane & Charcoal 2-in-1 Grill Combo 41,500 BTU |  | Best Overall | Dual‑Fuel Capability: Charcoal + Propane gas | Side Burner: Yes (9,000 BTU) | Total BTU Rating: 41,500 BTU | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Dual Fuel Grill Combo with Side Burner 3+1 Burners 40,000 BTU 713.5 Sq In Cooking Area Adjustable Charcoal Tray Stainless Steel Cabinet | Versatile Pro | Dual‑Fuel Capability: Charcoal + Propane gas | Side Burner: Yes (included in 3+1 burners) | Total BTU Rating: 40,000 BTU | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis | |
| 3-Burner Dual Fuel Grill with Side Burner BTU Output |  | Compact Performer | Dual‑Fuel Capability: Charcoal + Propane gas | Side Burner: Yes (additional side burner) | Total BTU Rating: 37,230 BTU | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Charcoal & Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner |  | Heavy‑Duty Choice | Dual‑Fuel Capability: Charcoal + Propane gas | Side Burner: Yes (propane side burner) | Total BTU Rating: Not specified (high‑output) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Royal Gourmet Dual Fuel Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo |  | Budget-Friendly Pick | Dual‑Fuel Capability: Charcoal + Propane gas | Side Burner: Yes (side burner) | Total BTU Rating: 20,000 BTU | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 34,000 Gas Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker 34,000 BTU Black (ZH3005Y‑SC) |  | Smoker Specialist | Dual‑Fuel Capability: Charcoal + Propane gas | Side Burner: Yes (10,000 BTU side burner) | Total BTU Rating: 34,000 BTU | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Nexgrill 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Charcoal Tray |  | High‑Heat Champion | Dual‑Fuel Capability: Charcoal + Propane gas | Side Burner: Yes (side burner) | Total BTU Rating: 60,000 BTU (overall) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Propane & Charcoal 2-in-1 Grill Combo 41,500 BTU
If you love the smoky flavor of charcoal but also want the quick, temperature‑controlled convenience of gas, the 41,500 BTU propane‑and‑charcoal 2‑in‑1 combo is the perfect grill for you. Its 2‑in‑1 design pairs a charcoal chamber with a four‑burner gas cooktop, letting you flip from searing steaks on a 10,000 BTU burner to slow‑cooking ribs over charcoal. You get a dual‑zone grill and perforated griddle, plus a 9,000 BTU side burner for sauces. The 673 sq in. cooking surface includes cast‑iron grids and a warming zone, while wheels, a pull‑out drip tray, and stainless steel durability make setup and cleanup effortless.
- Dual‑Fuel Capability:Charcoal + Propane gas
- Side Burner:Yes (9,000 BTU)
- Total BTU Rating:41,500 BTU
- Cooking Area (sq in):673 sq in (total)
- Mobility (Wheels/Casters):4 wheels
- Grease Management System:Pull‑out oil drip tray
- Additional Feature:Double-layer stainless lid
- Additional Feature:Pull-out oil drip tray
- Additional Feature:Cast‑iron grates & plates
Dual Fuel Grill Combo with Side Burner 3+1 Burners 40,000 BTU 713.5 Sq In Cooking Area Adjustable Charcoal Tray Stainless Steel Cabinet
The Dual Fuel Grill Combo with Side Burner is the perfect choice for anyone who wants the flexibility of both propane and charcoal without sacrificing power—its 40,000 BTU output and 713.5 sq in cooking area let you sear steaks on the gas side while smoking ribs on the charcoal side, all in one sturdy stainless‑steel cabinet. You’ll appreciate three main burners plus a side burner, giving you simultaneous gas, charcoal, and sauté zones. Precise knobs control the gas, while a hand‑crank tray adjusts charcoal height for exact heat. The 488.8 sq in grill, 154.8 sq in warming rack, and built‑in thermometer keep everything organized, and heavy‑duty wheels make mobility effortless.
- Dual‑Fuel Capability:Charcoal + Propane gas
- Side Burner:Yes (included in 3+1 burners)
- Total BTU Rating:40,000 BTU
- Cooking Area (sq in):713.5 sq in (total)
- Mobility (Wheels/Casters):4 heavy‑duty wheels
- Grease Management System:Removable grease management system
- Additional Feature:430 stainless steel panel
- Additional Feature:Built‑in lid thermometer
- Additional Feature:Enclosed storage cabinet
3-Burner Dual Fuel Grill with Side Burner
BTU Output
Versatility defines this 3‑burner dual‑fuel grill with a side burner, making it the ideal choice for grill masters who crave both the smoky depth of charcoal and the quick, controllable heat of propane. Its 37,230 BTU output fuels three burners and a side burner, letting you sear steaks, simmer sauces, or char vegetables without juggling separate units. Steel firebox with heat‑resistant powder coating and porcelain‑enameled cast‑iron grates keep temperatures steady, while the stainless‑steel thermometer tracks 100‑800 °F. Lockable swivel casters and storage cabinets add mobility and organization, and the push‑and‑turn ignition starts gas instantly. This grill delivers power, precision, and flexibility for every backyard feast.
- Dual‑Fuel Capability:Charcoal + Propane gas
- Side Burner:Yes (additional side burner)
- Total BTU Rating:37,230 BTU
- Cooking Area (sq in):643.6 sq in (total)
- Mobility (Wheels/Casters):2 lockable + 2 unlocked swivel casters
- Grease Management System:Removable grease tray
- Additional Feature:Powder‑coated firebox
- Additional Feature:Enamel flame tampers
- Additional Feature:Push‑and‑turn ignition
Charcoal & Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner
Grill enthusiasts who crave both the instant heat of propane and the smoky depth of charcoal will love this dual‑fuel model with a side burner. You’ll fire up propane for rapid temperature spikes, then slide in charcoal for that authentic flavor. The spacious cooking surface lets you sear thick steaks while the flat‑top griddle handles veggies, and the stainless‑steel warming rack keeps dishes ready. Thick cast‑iron grates distribute heat evenly, delivering restaurant‑grade results. Dual‑layer lids trap heat, cutting fuel use, and cool‑touch handles stay safe. Slide‑out grease trays and pull‑out ash pans make cleaning a breeze, so you spend more time eating.
- Dual‑Fuel Capability:Charcoal + Propane gas
- Side Burner:Yes (propane side burner)
- Total BTU Rating:Not specified (high‑output)
- Cooking Area (sq in):Not specified (large)
- Mobility (Wheels/Casters):Not specified (portable)
- Grease Management System:Slide‑out grease tray & pull‑out ash pan
- Additional Feature:Thick cast‑iron grates
- Additional Feature:Cool‑touch handles
- Additional Feature:Slide‑out grease tray
Royal Gourmet Dual Fuel Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo
If you love switching between smoky charcoal flavor and quick gas heat without moving equipment, the Royal Gourmet Dual Fuel Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo is the perfect fit. Its 759 sq in. cooking surface lets you sear steaks on two 20,000‑BTU gas burners, then finish them over charcoal for that authentic taste. You’ll appreciate the stainless‑steel lid, built‑in thermometer, and adjustable air vent for precise temperature control. Two side shelves, three hooks, and a warming rack keep tools and food within reach. Slide‑out ash tray, large grease cup, lockable casters, and removable grease tray make cleanup a breeze. Assembly is required, but the one‑year warranty and 30‑day return guarantee protect your investment.
- Dual‑Fuel Capability:Charcoal + Propane gas
- Side Burner:Yes (side burner)
- Total BTU Rating:20,000 BTU
- Cooking Area (sq in):759 sq in (total)
- Mobility (Wheels/Casters):2 × 6‑in wheels, 2 × 3‑in lockable casters
- Grease Management System:Slide‑out ash tray, large grease cup & tray
- Additional Feature:Slide‑out ash tray
- Additional Feature:Powder‑coated frame
- Additional Feature:Built‑in thermometer
34,000 Gas Charcoal Grill Combo with Offset Smoker 34,000 BTU Black (ZH3005Y‑SC)
Because you love both quick, gas‑fired searing and the deep, smoky flavor of charcoal, the 34,000 BTU dual‑fuel combo with offset smoker is the ideal choice. This Grills House ZH3005Y‑SC gives you 666 sq in. of primary cooking space—half gas, half charcoal—plus a 197 sq in. offset smoker and a 157 sq in. warming rack. Two 12,000 BTU stainless steel burners and a 10,000 BTU side burner deliver rapid heat, while the piezo ignition starts gas instantly. The three‑level charcoal pan holds up to 3.3 lb., and the smoker can double as a secondary grill. You can sear 36 burgers at once, all on a sturdy 87‑lb, black frame with a one‑year parts warranty.
- Dual‑Fuel Capability:Charcoal + Propane gas
- Side Burner:Yes (10,000 BTU side burner)
- Total BTU Rating:34,000 BTU
- Cooking Area (sq in):1,020 sq in (total)
- Mobility (Wheels/Casters):Not specified (portable)
- Grease Management System:Not specified (standard)
- Additional Feature:3‑level adjustable charcoal pan
- Additional Feature:Offset smoker compartment
- Additional Feature:Piezo ignition system
Nexgrill 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Charcoal Tray
For anyone who wants the flexibility of both gas and charcoal without buying two separate units, the Nexgrill 4‑Burner Propane Gas Grill with Charcoal Tray delivers exactly that. You’ll get 626 sq in of cooking area, split into a 461 sq in main grill and a 160 sq in warming rack, plus a side burner for sauces. Its stainless‑steel frame and cast‑iron grids give even heat, while 12,000 BTU burners provide 60,000 BTU total power. The 2‑in‑1 charcoal insert lets you smoke or sear, and the removable grease tray keeps cleanup easy. Assembly is required, and you’re covered by a one‑year warranty.
- Dual‑Fuel Capability:Charcoal + Propane gas
- Side Burner:Yes (side burner)
- Total BTU Rating:60,000 BTU (overall)
- Cooking Area (sq in):626 sq in (total)
- Mobility (Wheels/Casters):Heavy‑duty alloy steel frame with wheels (unspecified)
- Grease Management System:Removable grease tray
- Additional Feature:2‑in‑1 charcoal insert
- Additional Feature:Heavy‑duty alloy frame
- Additional Feature:Matte rust‑resistant finish
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Charcoal Grill With Side Burner
When you pick a charcoal grill with a side burner, start by checking how evenly the heat spreads across the cooking area and how powerful the side burner is for sauces or side dishes. Look at the grill surface size to guarantee it fits your typical portions, and choose a material that won’t warp or rust over time. Finally, consider mobility—wheels and overall weight will affect how readily you can move the grill to your patio or campsite.
Heat Distribution Efficiency
A well‑designed charcoal grill with a side burner spreads heat evenly across the cooking surface, preventing hot and cold spots that can ruin your meals. You’ll want adjustable air vents that let you fine‑tune airflow, because more control means a steadier temperature. Look for a heat‑diffuser plate or a grill grate that sits between the coals and food; it smooths out spikes and fills gaps. Arrange briquettes in a two‑zone layout—denser on one side for searing, sparser on the other for indirect cooking—to balance intensity. Larger cooking areas and multiple burners give you distinct zones, so you can move food to the optimal spot. All these features together guarantee consistent, even cooking without guesswork.
Side Burner Power
Choosing the right side‑burner power hinges on the dishes you plan to make. If you love high‑heat tasks like stir‑frying, searing steaks, or boiling pasta quickly, aim for a burner rated 10,000–15,000 BTU. Those units deliver the rapid temperature spikes you need without lag. For everyday side work—simmering sauces, warming appetizers, or cooking vegetables—mid‑range burners around 10,000 BTU strike a balance between speed and fuel efficiency. Lower‑output burners, 5,000–8,000 BTU, can handle gentle simmering but will struggle with rapid boils or intense sears, making them best for light prep. Match the BTU rating to your cooking style, ensuring the side burner complements your grill without wasteful over‑ or under‑performance.
Grill Surface Size
Grill surface size dictates how much you can cook at once, so you’ll want to match it to your typical gatherings and menu. A 300‑square‑inch cooking area comfortably handles a family‑size burger batch, a few chicken breasts, and a side of veggies, while a 500‑square‑inch surface lets you sear multiple steaks and a whole fish simultaneously. Consider the shape—rectangular grills give longer linear space for rows, whereas circular grills concentrate heat for quick searing. Think about your side‑burner placement; a larger main grid may push the burner to the edge, limiting prep space. Finally, balance size with portability: a compact grill fits a small patio, but a larger one may require a permanent spot and sturdier support. Adjust these factors to fit your cooking style and crowd size.
Material Durability
Usually you’ll notice that stainless steel and cast iron dominate the most durable builds, because they both resist high heat and heavy use without warping. Stainless steel burners and control knobs on the side burner stay reliable year after year, while thick cast‑iron grill grates hold heat evenly for perfect sears. Look for powder‑coated steel frames and hoods; the coating blocks rust and corrosion, extending the grill’s life in rainy or humid climates. High‑quality, weather‑resistant materials matter as much as the cooking surface—if the chassis degrades, the whole unit suffers. Choose a model that combines these robust components, and you’ll avoid frequent replacements, keep performance steady, and enjoy hassle‑free outdoor cooking for seasons to come.
Mobility and Wheels
Even the toughest stainless‑steel or cast‑iron construction won’t help if you can’t get the grill where you want it. Mobility starts with wheels; look for sturdy casters that roll smoothly across patios, decks, or grass. Larger, lockable wheels handle heavier grills and keep them steady when you fire up the side burner, while smaller, swivel casters suit lighter models and let you maneuver tight spaces. Check the wheel’s load rating—over‑spec’d wheels make relocation effortless, and lock mechanisms prevent unwanted movement during cooking. Also consider the grill’s overall weight and frame design; a balanced layout distributes load evenly, reducing strain on the wheels. Choose a wheel setup that matches your grill’s mass and your backyard’s terrain for hassle‑free positioning.
Charcoal Tray Adjustability
Because temperature control is key to great results, an adjustable charcoal tray lets you fine‑tune heat by raising or lowering the coals relative to the cooking surface. When you pick a grill, check whether the tray moves with a hand‑crank or a simple latch; a smooth mechanism saves time and lets you shift from searing to slow‑cooking without guesswork. Multi‑level trays give you granular positioning, so you can place coals close for a quick char or pull them back for gentle roasting. Look for sturdy rails that lock securely, preventing drift when you open the lid. A well‑designed adjustable tray expands your cooking repertoire, letting you master everything from steak to smoked vegetables with a single grill.
Easy Cleanup Features
After you’ve set the perfect temperature with an adjustable tray, the next thing to think about is how easy the grill will be to clean. Look for a removable grease tray or slide‑out ash pan; you’ll empty it in seconds and avoid scraping the bottom. A built‑in grease management system that channels drippings into a collection cup keeps oil off the grates and simplifies disposal. Choose porcelain‑enameled or nonstick grates—these smooth surfaces resist food sticking, so a quick wipe does the job. Easy‑access drip pans let you pull out messes without dismantling the whole unit. Well‑designed troughs and angled deflectors guide excess fat straight into a dedicated container, cutting down on scrubbing and making post‑cooking cleanup almost effortless.
Temperature Control Options
When you’re grilling, precise temperature control is the key to perfect results, and charcoal grills with side burners give you several tools to dial it in. Adjustable air vents let you fine‑tune oxygen flow, instantly raising or lowering heat. Some models add hand‑crank charcoal trays, so you can raise or lower the fuel bed without dismantling anything. Built‑in thermometers keep the internal temperature visible, helping you maintain ideal levels. Lid and vent dampers restrict airflow for low‑and‑slow or indirect cooking. Plus, the gas side burner usually operates independently, letting you sear on charcoal while simmering sauces on gas. Choose a grill that combines these features for reliable, versatile temperature management.
