The Weber Summit S-670 is our top pick for best dual fuel grill, offering unmatched versatility with a built-in charcoal tray and powerful gas burners. Dual fuel grills combine the convenience of gas with the smoky flavor of charcoal, but finding the right one means balancing build quality, heat output, and ease of switching between fuels. We researched top models like the Weber Summit, Char-Griller, and Pit Boss to help you decide.

Quick Answer

In our research, the Weber Summit S-670 stands out for premium build and integrated charcoal system. The Char-Griller 5050 offers the best value with a side firebox for smoking. The Pit Boss Navigator is a solid budget choice. Avoid the Dyna-Glo DGF510SP due to reported rust issues and uneven heating.

  • Best overall: Weber Summit S-670: Best overall for premium construction and seamless gas-charcoal switching.
  • Best value: Char-Griller 5050: Best value with side firebox for smoking and grilling.
  • Best budget: Pit Boss Navigator: Best budget dual fuel option with decent performance.
  • Avoid: Dyna-Glo DGF510SP: Avoid due to rust-prone components and inconsistent heat distribution.

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Quick Picks

  • Best overall: Weber Summit S-670, Premium dual fuel grill with integrated charcoal tray and powerful gas burners.. Check price on Amazon
  • Best value: Char-Griller 5050, Versatile side firebox design for smoking and grilling at a lower price..
  • Best budget: Pit Boss Navigator, Affordable dual fuel option with basic features for occasional use..

Comparison Table

Product Key Specs Best for Price Range Buy
Weber Summit S-670 4 gas burners, 769 sq in cooking area, integrated charcoal tray Enthusiasts who want premium build and ease of switching fuels High Check Price
Char-Griller 5050 2 gas burners, 580 sq in, side firebox for charcoal Value seekers who want smoking capability Mid Check Price
Pit Boss Navigator 3 gas burners, 720 sq in, removable charcoal tray Budget-conscious buyers needing a dual fuel option Low Check Price
Dyna-Glo DGF510SP 5 gas burners, 510 sq in, charcoal grate Not recommended due to quality concerns Mid Check Price

How We Chose These Grills Picks

We evaluated dual fuel grills based on build material (stainless steel vs. painted steel), heat output (BTU per burner), cooking area, ease of switching between gas and charcoal, and owner-reported durability over 2-3 years. We prioritized models with positive reviews for even heating and rust resistance.

Key Takeaway: For most buyers, the Char-Griller 5050 offers the best balance of versatility and cost. But if you want premium performance and longevity, the Weber Summit S-670 is worth the investment.

Best Overall: Weber Summit S-670

Best for: Enthusiasts who want premium build quality and seamless gas-charcoal operation. Why it made the list: The Weber Summit S-670 features a dedicated charcoal tray that slides under the cooking grates, allowing you to use charcoal while the gas burners are off. Its four stainless steel burners deliver 48,000 BTU, and the porcelain-enameled lid and body resist rust. Owners praise its even heat distribution and easy cleanup.

  • Key specs: 4 burners, 769 sq in cooking area, integrated charcoal tray, porcelain-enameled lid, stainless steel grates
  • What we like: Seamless gas-charcoal switch; durable construction; even heat across the grates; large cooking area
  • What we do not like: Charcoal tray is small; lid does not lock closed; assembly requires two people
  • Who should buy it: Grill enthusiasts who cook for large groups and want both gas convenience and charcoal flavor
  • Who should avoid it: Budget shoppers; those who need a smoker box or side burner
  • Common complaints: Charcoal tray can be difficult to clean; gas burners may produce flare-ups with fatty foods; igniter can fail after 1-2 years
  • Size note: Requires a large patio space (over 60 inches wide with side tables)
  • Cleaning note: Charcoal tray needs regular ash removal; gas burners should be cleaned with a wire brush to prevent clogging
  • Alternative: Char-Griller 5050 for a lower price with side firebox smoking

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Dual Fuel Grill Buying Guide

What is a dual fuel grill?

A dual fuel grill lets you cook with both gas and charcoal, either separately or together. Gas provides quick startup and temperature control, while charcoal adds smoky flavor. Some models integrate both, like the Weber Summit with a charcoal tray, while others use a side firebox like the Char-Griller 5050.

Key features to consider

Look for a durable cooking surface (cast iron or stainless steel grates), high BTU output (40,000+ for good searing), and easy fuel switching. Porcelain-enameled lids resist rust better than painted steel. A grease management system is important to avoid flare-ups.

Fuel switching and versatility

The best dual fuel grills allow you to use gas for quick weeknight dinners and charcoal for weekend smoking. Some models let you use both at once for searing and smoking. Consider how easy it is to add or remove charcoal: removable trays are easier to clean than fixed boxes.

Safety Notes

  • Always follow propane tank safety: check for leaks with soapy water before lighting.
  • Do not use charcoal lighter fluid on a gas grill; use a chimney starter for charcoal.
  • Keep grill away from flammable structures and never leave unattended while lit.
  • Allow grill to cool completely before cleaning or storing charcoal.

What to Avoid

  • Avoid grills with thin gauge steel lids that warp over time.
  • Avoid models with non-removable charcoal trays that are hard to clean.
  • Avoid grills with poor grease management that cause frequent flare-ups.
  • Avoid painted steel if you live in a humid climate; it rusts quickly.

FAQ

Can I use gas and charcoal at the same time?

Yes, if your grill has a separate charcoal tray and gas burners, you can use both. The Weber Summit S-670 allows this, but most cheaper models do not.

How do I clean a dual fuel grill?

For gas: brush the grates and clean burners. For charcoal: remove ash and clean the tray. Some models have removable ash catchers.

Do dual fuel grills come with a cover?

Most do not; you should buy a heavy-duty grill cover to protect from rust, especially if you use charcoal frequently.

Final Verdict

The Weber Summit S-670 is the best dual fuel grill for serious grillers who want premium build and seamless fuel switching. The Char-Griller 5050 offers great value with a side firebox for smoking, and the Pit Boss Navigator is a decent budget pick for occasional use.

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