4 Combo Grills That Smoke, Sear, and Impress All Summer

summer grilling combo options

You’re planning your summer cookouts, but you’re stuck between a basic grill and a dedicated smoker. What if you didn’t have to choose? Combo grills let you sear steaks one moment and smoke brisket the next. We’ve tested four Royal Gourmet models that’ll transform your backyard into a pitmaster’s paradise. Here’s what sets them apart.

Quick Overview

  • Royal Gourmet combo grills feature 800-1200 square inches of cooking space, accommodating 8-10 guests simultaneously for impressive gatherings.
  • Adjustable charcoal pans and side doors enable precise temperature control and easy refueling during cooking sessions without interruptions.
  • Offset smoker chambers with effective heat and smoke circulation deliver authentic smoking capabilities alongside traditional grilling performance.
  • Porcelain-enameled grates and heavy-duty construction ensure long-term durability and consistent performance throughout multiple summer cooking seasons.
  • Front and side tables plus mesh shelves provide convenient workspace and storage for tools, seasonings, and food preparation needs.

Our Top Combo Grill Picks

Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker (CC1830S) Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker | Best OverallTotal Cooking Area: 823 sq. in.Offset Smoker Size: 197 sq. in.Main Cooking Grates: 475 sq. in. porcelain-enameledVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker (CC1830W) Royal Gourmet CC1830W 30-Inch Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker and Best ValueTotal Cooking Area: 811 sq. in.Offset Smoker Size: 184 sq. in.Main Cooking Grates: 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wireVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Royal Gourmet Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker Royal Gourmet CC2036F Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker, Outdoor Best for EntertainingTotal Cooking Area: 1200 sq. in.Offset Smoker Size: 272 sq. in.Main Cooking Grates: 668 sq. in. gratesVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker CC1830SC Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover, 811 Best with CoverTotal Cooking Area: 811 sq. in.Offset Smoker Size: 184 sq. in.Main Cooking Grates: 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wireVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker (CC1830S)

    Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker |

    Best Overall

    View Latest Price

    If you’re serious about smoking meats while maintaining a dedicated grilling station, the Royal Gourmet CC1830S won’t compromise. You’ll command 823 square inches of cooking space across the main grates, warming rack, and offset smoker. The attached smoker chamber circulates heat and smoke effectively, while you adjust the lifting rack to fine-tune temperature control. You’ll appreciate the side door for convenient charcoal access and ash removal. Your front and side tables provide workspace for tools and seasonings, and the bottom shelf stores up to twenty pounds of accessories. Porcelain-enameled grates and a chrome warming rack deliver durability and versatility for any summer cookout.

    • Total Cooking Area:823 sq. in.
    • Offset Smoker Size:197 sq. in.
    • Main Cooking Grates:475 sq. in. porcelain-enameled
    • Charcoal Capacity:Not specified
    • Heat Control:Adjustable lifting rack
    • Workspace and Storage:Front/side tables + bottom shelf (20 lbs. capacity)
    • Additional Feature:Adjustable lifting rack feature
    • Additional Feature:Porcelain-enameled cooking grates
    • Additional Feature:Easy-access side door
  2. Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker (CC1830W)

    You’ll appreciate the Royal Gourmet CC1830W‘s thoughtful design, which combines a 30-inch charcoal grill with an offset smoker—making it the ideal choice for barbecue enthusiasts who don’t have sprawling outdoor space. With 811 total square inches of cooking area, you’ve got room for grilling and smoking simultaneously. The 2-level adjustable fire grates let you control heat precisely, while the 4.4-pound charcoal capacity sustains longer cooking sessions. Wood-painted tables give you ample prep space, and the mesh shelf holds up to 20 pounds of accessories. Three S hooks keep your utensils within reach, so you’ll stay organized and efficient throughout your backyard barbecue.

    • Total Cooking Area:811 sq. in.
    • Offset Smoker Size:184 sq. in.
    • Main Cooking Grates:443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire
    • Charcoal Capacity:4.4 lbs.
    • Heat Control:2-level adjustable fire grates
    • Workspace and Storage:Wood-painted front/side tables + mesh shelf (20 lbs. capacity) + 3 S hooks
    • Additional Feature:2-level charcoal pan adjustment
    • Additional Feature:Three S hooks included
    • Additional Feature:Wood-painted side table
  3. Royal Gourmet Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker

    Royal Gourmet CC2036F Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker, Outdoor

    Best for Entertaining

    View Latest Price

    The Royal Gourmet CC2036F Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker is an ideal choice for anyone who wants versatile outdoor cooking without compromising on capacity. You’ll enjoy 1200 square inches of total cooking space—perfect for feeding 8-10 guests. The main grates offer 668 square inches, while the 260-square-inch warming rack keeps dishes at peak temperatures. Your offset smoker adds 272 square inches for smoking meats and sides simultaneously. You’ll appreciate the adjustable charcoal pan with three height levels, giving you precise heat control. It holds up to 7.7 pounds of charcoal, with a convenient side door for tending your fire. Cleanup’s hassle-free thanks to removable grease and charcoal pans. You’ve got everything needed for impressive summer cookouts.

    • Total Cooking Area:1200 sq. in.
    • Offset Smoker Size:272 sq. in.
    • Main Cooking Grates:668 sq. in. grates
    • Charcoal Capacity:7.7 lbs. (3.5kg)
    • Heat Control:3-level adjustable charcoal pan
    • Workspace and Storage:Not specified
    • Additional Feature:3-level adjustable charcoal pan
    • Additional Feature:Removable grease drip cup
    • Additional Feature:Feeds 8-10 people
  4. Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker CC1830SC

    Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover, 811

    Best with Cover

    View Latest Price

    For those craving the versatility of smoking and grilling in one compact unit, Royal Gourmet’s CC1830SC delivers an impressive 811 square inches of cooking space across three distinct zones—a main grill area, warming rack, and offset smoker. You’ll appreciate the 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan that holds up to 4.4 lbs of coal, giving you precise temperature control via the lid-mounted thermometer. The side door provides convenient charcoal access and ash removal, while the air vent lets you stoke your fire instantly. Front and side tables offer workspace for tools and seasonings, and the included heavy-duty grill cover protects your investment year-round.

    • Total Cooking Area:811 sq. in.
    • Offset Smoker Size:184 sq. in.
    • Main Cooking Grates:443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire
    • Charcoal Capacity:4.4 lbs.
    • Heat Control:2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan
    • Workspace and Storage:Front/side tables + bottom shelf (20 lbs. capacity)
    • Additional Feature:Lid-mounted thermometer gauge
    • Additional Feature:Heavy-duty grill cover included
    • Additional Feature:Air vent for stoking

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Charcoal Gas Combo Grill With Smoker

When you’re shopping for a charcoal gas combo grill with smoker, you’ll want to evaluate your cooking surface area needs, heat control options, and the quality of the offset smoker component. Consider how much storage and workspace you’ll need around your grill, as well as the durability and materials that’ll withstand your climate and frequent use. These five factors’ll help you find the right model that matches both your cooking style and budget.

Cooking Surface Area

Because you’ll want to cook for everyone at once, cooking surface area is one of the most critical specs you’ll evaluate. Most charcoal grills with offset smokers range from 800 to over 1200 square inches, giving you flexibility based on your needs.

When gauging capacity, break down the space between main cooking grates, warming racks, and the offset smoker. This breakdown helps you understand where you’ll place different foods and how efficiently you’ll work during cooking.

Larger surfaces open up versatility—you’ll master grilling, smoking, and indirect cooking simultaneously. You won’t crowd your food or waste heat. Match your cooking surface to your typical gathering size and cooking style. This alignment maximizes efficiency and guarantees you’re not over- or under-equipped for your outdoor events.

Heat Control Options

You’ve got the space to cook everything you need, but now you’ll want to command the temperature. Look for adjustable charcoal pans with multiple height levels—they’ll let you fine-tune heat proximity to your food. Lid-mounted thermometers give you precise temperature monitoring without guesswork. Air vents deserve your attention too; adjusting them controls airflow, directly impacting cooking temperature and fuel consumption. An easy-access side door proves invaluable for adding charcoal or removing ashes while maintaining consistent heat. If your combo includes an offset smoker, you’ll gain indirect cooking capabilities that enhance flavor while letting you manage smoker temperatures separately from the main grill. These features work together to give you complete control over your cooking experience.

Offset Smoker Quality

What truly separates a mediocre offset smoker from an exceptional one? You’ll want to examine construction quality and materials first—they directly impact heat retention and smoke circulation. Look for insulated walls and tight seals that maintain consistent temperatures throughout your cooking session.

Next, consider practical features like adjustable charcoal pans and side doors. These elements give you efficient management and easy access when you’re tending the fire.

A separate cooking chamber is essential, allowing you to infuse smoky flavors without contaminating your main grilling area. This versatility lets you prepare multiple dishes simultaneously.

Finally, built-in thermometers or monitoring systems prove invaluable. They help you maintain ideal temperatures, ensuring you’ll achieve the desired flavor and doneness every time you smoke.

Storage and Workspace

Beyond the smoker’s internal mechanics, you’ll want to think about how you’ll actually use your combo grill on a day-to-day basis. Look for models featuring front and side tables that give you ample workspace for food prep and tool access during cooking. A sturdy bottom shelf with at least 20 lbs capacity keeps your accessories organized and within reach. Hooks or hanging systems for utensils eliminate workspace clutter while ensuring convenient access to your tools. Side doors for charcoal and ash removal streamline your grilling process considerably. The best combo grills balance generous workspace and storage without sacrificing cooking area size, letting you prepare efficiently while maintaining plenty of room to cook.

Durability and Materials

When investing in a combo grill with smoker, the materials you choose determine how well your equipment withstands years of outdoor use. You’ll want porcelain-enameled cooking grates that enhance durability and heat retention, ensuring longer-lasting performance through countless cookouts.

Look for chrome-plated warming racks that resist corrosion and maintain food temperature effectively. Heavy-duty construction materials provide essential protection against weather elements, considerably prolonging your grill’s lifespan.

Prioritize models featuring easy-access side doors for efficient charcoal management and maintenance. A sturdy charcoal pan with adjustable height options gives you effective heat control and efficient coal usage. These material choices aren’t luxuries—they’re investments that transform your combo grill into a reliable, long-term cooking companion that handles high heat without compromising performance or safety.

Charcoal Capacity Management

Your grill’s charcoal capacity directly determines how long you can maintain consistent heat for extended cooking sessions. Most models feature charcoal pans holding between 4.4 to 7.7 pounds of coal, impacting your cooking duration and guest capacity. You’ll want to match the pan size to your entertaining needs—larger grilling areas demand higher coal capacities for sustained heat distribution.

Adjustable charcoal pans with multiple height levels give you precise temperature control by varying the distance between food and heat source. Look for models featuring side charcoal doors that streamline refueling without interrupting your cooking flow. Understanding your grill’s charcoal management system guarantees you’re equipped to handle any gathering, maintaining ideal temperatures throughout your meal preparation.

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