Comparison: Gas Grill And Smoker (Updated | Jan 13th)
If you love firing up the grill but aren’t sure whether to stick with a gas grill or dive into the smoky world of a smoker, you’re not alone. Both deliver delicious results, but they bring very different flavors and experiences to your backyard cookouts. Gas grills offer speed and convenience, while smokers bring deep, rich flavor through slow cooking. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each so you can decide which one fits your style—and which might earn a permanent spot on your patio.
Key Takeaways
- The Editor’s Choice excels with massive cooking space and precise smoke control.
- Dual fuel capability offers flexibility for grilling and smoking needs.
- Built-in fuel gauge ensures uninterrupted cooking with real-time monitoring.
- Prioritize durable construction and smoke management when selecting a gas grill and smoker.
- Choose models with ample cooking area to handle diverse meal sizes.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Charcoal and Propane Gas Smoker & Grill – 24203005
Editor’s Choice
- Massive cooking space
- Dual fuel options
- Built-in fuel gauge
- BEST FOR DUAL-FUEL FLEXIBILITY: Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Offset Smoker & Side Burner Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SMOKER-GRILL WORKHORSE: Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal and Gas Smoker & Grill Read More ↓
- BEST FOR COMPACT COMBO RIG: Char-Griller® Dual-Function 2-Burner 24 Read More ↓
- BEST FOR PELLET-GAS FUSION: Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo Read More ↓
- BEST FOR 3-IN-1 POWERHOUSE: 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill Combo w/Side Burner Read More ↓
- BEST FOR EDITOR’S CHOICE: Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Charcoal and Propane Gas Smoker & Grill – 24203005 Read More ↓
- BEST FOR FAMILY-SIZED COMBO: Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner & Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grate Read More ↓
- BEST FOR GRIDDLE-SMOKE FLEX: 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill Combo w/Side Burner Read More ↓
- BEST FOR HIGH-HEAT SIMPLICITY: EUHOME 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill with Side Burner Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Gas Grill And Smoker
Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Offset Smoker & Side Burner, 34,000 BTU Dual Fuel Grill, 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area, Ideal for Outdoor Cooking, Black, ZH3005Y-SC
The Grills House 2-Burner Combo Grill is a versatile outdoor cooking powerhouse that blends gas convenience with charcoal flavor and smoking capability. With 1020 sq.
in. of total cooking space, it features separate gas and charcoal zones, a 197 sq.
in. offset smoker, and a 10,000 BTU side burner for sauces or sides.
Dual 12,000 BTU stainless steel burners deliver strong, even heat, while the 3-level adjustable charcoal pan allows precise temperature control for searing, smoking, or slow-cooking. The side-access door simplifies refueling the smoker, and the durable steel construction ensures long-term use.
Ideal for BBQ enthusiasts who want flexibility in flavor and cooking methods.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Dual fuel options
- Large 1020 sq. in. cooking space
- Offset smoker included
- Side burner for versatility
- Adjustable charcoal pan
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavy and bulky
- Complex assembly
- High price point
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal and Gas Smoker & Grill, Black – 24203004
The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Smoker & Grill delivers serious cooking performance for pitmasters who love charcoal smoking and gas grilling in one unit. Its 750 sq.
in. primary cooking area and 281 sq.
in. firebox grate offer ample space for smoking pork shoulders or grilling burgers.
The charcoal-fired smoker uses hardwood for rich, authentic flavor, while the 3-burner gas grill (36,000 BTU) heats quickly and maintains consistent temperatures. Adjustable dampers and a smokestack give precise smoke and heat control, and the removable ash pan simplifies cleanup.
Tool hooks keep essentials handy. Built tough for durability, this combo unit excels in flavor and functionality for serious backyard BBQ.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Authentic charcoal smoke flavor
- Spacious 1031 sq. in. total cooking area
- Precise damper control
- Removable ash pan
- Durable steel construction
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Propane tank not included
- No side burner
- Heavy and hard to move
Char-Griller® Dual-Function 2-Burner 24,000 BTU Propane Gas and Charcoal Combination Grill and Smoker with 870 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model E5030
The Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner grill offers versatile cooking with both propane and charcoal capabilities, perfect for grilling and smoking enthusiasts. With a generous 870 square inches of total cooking space, including 606 square inches on the primary grate, it accommodates large meals for gatherings.
The 24,000 BTU burner delivers strong heat, while porcelain-coated cast iron grates ensure even heating and durability. An easy-dump ash pan simplifies cleanup, and the sturdy cart with locking wheels provides mobility and storage.
This combo grill is ideal for those who want the flavor of charcoal with the convenience of gas ignition.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Large cooking area
- Dual fuel options
- Durable porcelain grates
- Easy ash cleanup
- Stable cart design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavy and bulky
- Assembly takes time
- Side shelves not included
Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo
The Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo blends innovation and functionality for serious outdoor cooks. Its Fusion Fuel system allows simultaneous gas grilling and pellet smoking, offering unmatched versatility.
With a temperature range of 180–700°F and a bright LCD display, it maintains precise control in any weather. The 742-square-inch cooking surface works for both direct and indirect methods, while three meat probes help monitor doneness.
It includes a 20-pound pellet hopper, easy clean-out system, and ample storage. The stacked design saves space without sacrificing performance, making it a smart choice for compact patios or dedicated backyard setups.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Fusion Fuel flexibility
- Precise temperature control
- Spacious cooking area
- Easy cleanup system
- Includes meat probes
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Expensive upfront cost
- Pellet reliance in cold weather
- Complex setup for beginners
4 Burner Propane Gas Grill Combo w/Side Burner, 3-in-1 BBQ Grill with Charcoal Smoker & Griddle Plate, 46,650 BTU, 448 Sq.In. Stainless Steel Outdoor Cooking Station
The Nice Cooker 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill Combo delivers exceptional versatility with its 3-in-1 design, combining a gas grill, charcoal smoker, and cast iron griddle in one unit. With a total of 46,750 BTU across five burners, it heats up quickly and maintains consistent temperatures for grilling, searing, or slow-smoking.
The 448 sq. in.
cooking surface includes durable cast iron grates and a warming rack, ideal for family cookouts. A double-layer stainless steel lid ensures heat retention, while the pull-out grease tray simplifies cleanup.
Packed with user-friendly features like a built-in thermometer, bottle opener, and side shelves, this grill is built for convenience and performance.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- 3-in-1 versatility
- Large cooking area
- Durable stainless steel build
- Even heat distribution
- Easy cleanup design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavy and bulky
- Assembly takes time
- Propane only
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Charcoal and Propane Gas Smoker & Grill – 24203005
The Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX blends a charcoal smoker and propane gas grill into one powerful outdoor cooking station. Its 1,434 sq.
in. total cooking space lets you smoke multiple pork shoulders while grilling burgers or wings simultaneously.
The charcoal side uses indirect heat and adjustable dampers for precise smoke and temperature control, perfect for authentic low-and-slow BBQ. The 3-burner propane grill delivers 36,000 BTU for fast, even cooking.
Features like a built-in fuel gauge, tool hooks, and a spacious firebox grate enhance usability. Ideal for serious grillers who want flexibility between gas and charcoal without sacrificing performance or control.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Massive cooking space
- Dual fuel options
- Built-in fuel gauge
- Excellent smoke control
- Durable construction
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavy and hard to move
- Charcoal setup takes practice
- Propane tank not included
Captiva Designs Propane Gas Grill and Charcoal Grill Combo with Side Burner & Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron Grate, Dual Fuel BBQ Grill for Outdoor Events & Backyard Barbecue, 690 SQIN Cooking Area
The Captiva Designs Propane & Charcoal Grill Combo offers the best of both grilling worlds in one durable, high-performance unit. With 690 sq.
in. of total cooking space—520 sq.
in. on porcelain-enameled cast iron grates and 170 sq.
in. on a warming rack—it’s ideal for large gatherings.
The independent gas and charcoal zones let you sear on gas while smoking over charcoal, all with precise heat control. Stainless steel burners and an enameled charcoal tray ensure even heating, while slide-out grease and ash trays make cleanup simple.
Sturdy construction and a spacious countertop enhance usability. Backed by responsive customer service, this grill combo delivers versatility and reliability for serious outdoor cooks.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Dual fuel options
- Large 690 sq.in. cooking area
- Durable porcelain-coated grates
- Easy cleanup with slide-out trays
- Spacious prep counter
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavy and hard to move
- Higher price than basic models
- Assembly takes time
4 Burner Propane Gas Grill Combo w/Side Burner, 3-in-1 BBQ Grill with Charcoal Smoker & Griddle Plate, 46,750 BTU, 448 Sq.In. Stainless Steel Outdoor Cooking Station
The Nice Cooker 4-Burner Propane Grill Combo is a versatile 3-in-1 outdoor cooking station designed for grilling, griddling, and smoking. Featuring 448 sq.
in. of cooking space, including a 340 sq.
in. primary area with cast iron grates and a 108 sq.
in. warming rack, it handles meals for families and guests with ease.
The 4+1 burner system delivers 46,750 BTU for powerful, even heating, while enamel charcoal pans allow authentic smoke flavor. A removable cast iron griddle expands cooking options.
Premium features include a double-layer stainless steel lid, built-in thermometer, bottle opener, and pull-out grease tray. Durable, well-designed, and easy to clean, it’s perfect for versatile backyard cooking.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- 3-in-1 cooking versatility
- High 46,750 BTU output
- Durable cast iron grates
- Convenient built-in features
- Easy grease management
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Propane only, no natural gas option
- Griddle storage not included
- Slightly smaller cooking area
EUHOME 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill with Side Burner, 46,500 BTU Output Stainless Steel Barbecue Grill with Enameled Cast Iron Grates and Side Tables for Outdoor Cooking Kitchen and Patio Backyard
The EUHOME 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill delivers powerful 46,500 BTU heat with four main burners and an 8,500 BTU side burner, perfect for searing steaks or simmering sauces. Its spacious 458 sq.
in. cooking area, including a 332 sq.
in. main grate and warming rack, easily feeds 10+ guests—ideal for family cookouts.
Enameled cast iron grates retain heat for restaurant-quality sear marks and resist rust. Stainless steel construction ensures durability in all weather, while the push-to-start ignition and tool-ready side shelves simplify use.
Assembly takes under 45 minutes.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- High 46,500 BTU output
- Large 458 sq. in. cooking space
- Durable stainless steel build
- Convenient side burner included
- Easy assembly under 45 mins
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavy at 80+ lbs
- Side shelf not foldable
- Propane tank not included
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I look for when choosing between a gas grill and a smoker?
Consider your cooking style and time availability. Gas grills offer quick, high-heat cooking ideal for burgers and steaks, while smokers provide slow, low-temperature cooking that enhances flavor with smoke. If convenience is key, go for a gas grill; for rich, smoky taste, choose a smoker.
How do gas grills and smokers compare in terms of cooking time?
Gas grills typically cook food in minutes, making them great for weeknight meals. Smokers require several hours to properly cook and infuse flavor into meats like brisket or ribs. Choose based on how much time you’re willing to invest in the cooking process.
Which offers better flavor: a gas grill or a smoker?
Smokers deliver deeper, more complex smoky flavor due to wood chips and long cooking times. Gas grills can mimic some smoke flavor with smoker boxes, but the result is less intense. For authentic barbecue taste, a smoker is superior.
Are combo gas grill and smoker units worth it?
Yes, combo units offer versatility, letting you grill quickly or smoke slowly in one appliance. They’re ideal for those who want flexibility without buying two separate units. However, they may not smoke as effectively as dedicated smokers.
What features should I prioritize in a gas grill?
Look for stainless steel burners, even heat distribution, and multiple cooking zones. Built-in thermometers, side burners, and easy cleanup features add convenience. Higher BTU ratings can indicate more power, but efficiency matters more than max output.
What features matter most in a smoker?
Temperature control, insulation quality, and smoke circulation are critical for consistent results. Digital controls and meat probes add precision, especially for long cooks. Ample cooking space and easy ash cleanup improve usability.
Which is more cost-effective in the long run?
Gas grills generally have lower fuel and maintenance costs with quicker cook times. Smokers may use more fuel over long sessions but add unique value for barbecue enthusiasts. Consider how often you’ll use each to determine long-term value.
Can I get smoky flavor on a gas grill?
Yes, using a smoker box with wood chips can add smoky flavor to gas-grilled food. Results won’t match a traditional smoker but work well for lighter smoke preferences. Soak wood chips first and place them over a burner for best results.