Looking for the best side by side grill setup to expand outdoor cooking versatility? This guide highlights five top Amazon picks that let you grill with gas, charcoal, or a combination, helping you choose the right fit for your backyard entertaining. Each option is evaluated for who it’s best for, why it stands out, and any practical limitations to consider. Ideal buyers include those who want quick weeknight meals, smoky backyard barbecues, or dedicated side burner space for sauces and sides.
| Product | Brand | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo | Grills House | Smoky flavor with offset smoker; family gatherings |
| 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner | Electactic | Compact, versatile backyard grilling with heat control |
| Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared 4-Burner | Charbroil | Modular cooking and quick searing |
| Endark 3-Burner Propane Grill with Side-Fire | Endark | Portable outdoor cooking with precise control |
| Royal Gourmet CC1830S Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker | Royal Gourmet | Smoky flavor and offset smoking on a charcoal grill |
Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo
The Grills House ZH3005Y-SC combines gas grilling with an attached offset smoker and a side burner. It offers a total cooking area of 1020 sq. in., including a main gas area and charcoal zone, plus a dedicated smoker section. This setup is best for cooks who want the ease of gas with the depth of charcoal flavor and the option to smoke without setting up a separate grill.
Best for: households that entertain often and want flexible cooking styles in one unit. The dual-fuel design supports rapid weekday meals and weekend smokers while maintaining a reasonable footprint. The offset smoker adds smoky flavor without overpowering quick grills.
Limitation: the combination design may require more space and careful heat management to balance gas and charcoal zones during the cook. Handling ashes in the offset smoker also requires routine cleaning.
3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Burner
This Electactic model delivers 34,000 BTU with three main burners and a 10,500 BTU side burner. It includes a built-in temperature gauge for precise heat control and premium stainless steel construction with porcelain-enameled grates. It’s a solid choice for backyards that want dependable performance and a clean, modern aesthetic.
Best for: compact outdoor spaces that still demand versatile cooking and easy clean-up. The side burner expands menu options for sauces, sides, or marinades during grilling sessions.
Caution: while durable, the gas grill relies on aligned venting and proper assembly to maximize heat distribution across all three main burners and the side burner.
Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared 4-Burner
The Charbroil Pro Series brings a modular cooking system with infrared Amplifire technology and a four-burner propane setup, plus a Gas2Coal option (requires separate charcoal tray). It heats quickly and provides even heat with easy-to-clean cast-iron grates. A built-in griddle option adds cooking versatility for breakfasts or quick stir-fries outdoors.
Best for: cooks who want fast searing and the option to swap to charcoal-style cooking. The modular design supports diverse meals, from burgers to stir-fried sides.
Limitation: Gas2Coal requires additional accessories and may complicate setup for users who mainly cook with gas.
Endark 3-Burner Propane Grill with Side-Fire
Endark’s 3-burner propane grill emphasizes portability and straightforward control. It has independent burner adjustment, a thermometer in the lid, and two large transport wheels. The design is well-suited to patios, gardens, or taking to weekend gatherings with minimal setup time.
Best for: buyers who prioritize mobility and simple operation for diverse outdoor events. The combination of a thermometer and separate burner control supports precise cooking and variable heat zones.
Limitation: the setup focuses on mobility; it may have fewer bells and whistles compared to larger, stationary grills with bigger cooking areas.
Royal Gourmet CC1830S Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
The Royal Gourmet CC1830S combines 823 sq. in. of cooking space with a dedicated offset smoker. This setup emphasizes smoky flavor and even heat circulation through the offset design. An easy-access side door simplifies charcoal addition and ash removal, while adjustable lifting racks offer temperature control versatility.
Best for: grillers who want a classic charcoal flavor with an integrated smoker for deeper smoke profiles and a straightforward heat management system.
Limitation: charcoal grilling generally requires more ongoing attention to fuel and airflow, and the offset smoker adds space and handling considerations.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Side By Side Grills
- Fuel type and versatility: Decide if you want gas, charcoal, or a dual-fuel setup. Dual-fuel models offer flexibility but require more space and management.
- Cooking area and layout: Consider primary cooking space, warming areas, and any side burners. A larger total area supports bigger meals but needs more storage space when not in use.
- Heat control and temperature range: Look for built-in thermometers, multiple burners, and independent burner control to manage zones for different dishes.
- Maintenance and durability: Stainless steel components and porcelain-enameled grates improve rust resistance and cleanup. Offset smokers require ash management and periodic cleaning.
- Portability vs. permanence: Wheels and lightweight designs aid mobility; heavier units may be better for steady, long-term outdoor spaces.
- Ease of assembly: Some models come with simpler setups and clearer instructions, while others may require more time and tools.
FAQ
- What is the main advantage of a dual-fuel grill?
Dual-fuel grills combine gas and charcoal, providing fast heating with gas and authentic smoky flavor from charcoal or a dedicated smoker.
- Is an offset smoker necessary for smoky flavor?
Offset smokers help circulate heat and smoke for deeper flavor, but a charcoal grill with a good airflow setup can also achieve similar results.
- How important is a lid thermometer?
A built-in thermometer helps monitor temperature without opening the lid, improving heat management for even cooking.
- Should I choose a grill with side burners?
Side burners are useful for sauces, sides, and marinades, enabling multitasking during grilling sessions.
- What maintenance steps are essential?
Regular cleaning of grates, ash management for smokers, and checking gas connections ensure safe and consistent performance.
- Do larger grills always perform better?
Not always; performance depends on heat distribution, burner design, and how you manage fuel and airflow for your typical cooking needs.