When cooking outside, a charcoal grill and griddle combo can make your barbecues amazing. Three great choices are Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo Charcoal and Gas Grill, Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Digital Charcoal Griddle + Grill + Smoker, and Char-Griller Duo 5050.
Why are these combos so popular?
They are flexible and work really well.
Many models have features like airflow control and temperature checks.
These features make them simple to use.
They are strong and last for years, giving good value.
Charcoal grilling has a classic feel that people love.
Whether you’re grilling on a flat top or smoking ribs, these combos give awesome results. They’re great for anyone wanting to improve their outdoor cooking and enjoy top grill smoker combos.
Key Takeaways
Charcoal grill and griddle combos let you cook many ways. You can grill, smoke, and use the griddle in one unit.
Pick a grill with temperature control and easy cleaning. These features make cooking simpler and save time.
Think about your space and cooking needs before buying. Big grills work for parties, while small ones fit tight spaces.
Clean the grates and check parts often to keep your grill working well and lasting longer.
Look at your budget and cooking style to choose the right grill combo without spending too much.
Top Charcoal Grill and Griddle Combo Systems
Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo Charcoal and Gas Grill
Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo is great for outdoor cooking. It mixes charcoal grilling with gas grilling for more options. The strong steel build makes it last a long time. Its large cooking space, 1,060 square inches, is perfect for big meals.
Here’s a simple look at its features:
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Fuel Type | Charcoal and Gas |
Build Material | Heavy Steel |
Temperature Control | Airflow and Gas Knob |
Cooking Space | 1,060 sq. in. |
Size | 31.5” L x 74” W x 50.6” H |
Max Temperature | Up to 500°F |
You can easily control heat using airflow and knobs. It’s great for grilling burgers or smoking brisket. The sturdy design handles years of use. The griddle heats evenly, making it great for searing food.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Digital Charcoal Griddle + Grill + Smoker
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 is perfect for precise cooking. It uses a DigitalFan™ to keep the temperature steady. You can grill, smoke, or use the griddle with great results.
Here’s how it scores in key areas:
Category | Score |
|---|---|
Build Strength | 8.0 |
Temperature Control | 9.0 |
Easy to Use | 8.5 |
Cooking Options | 9.0 |
Cleaning Ease | 8.0 |
Tech Features | 9.0 |
Value for Money | 8.5 |
This grill heats quickly, reaching 225°F in 8 minutes. It can hit 700°F in 14 minutes. The charcoal hopper lets you cook for 10 hours without adding more fuel. It’s great for long smoking or grilling steaks and pancakes.
Char-Griller Duo 5050
The Char-Griller Duo 5050 is a solid choice for backyard cooks. It combines charcoal and gas grills in one unit. The steel frame makes it strong and long-lasting. You can switch between charcoal and gas easily.
This grill is simple but works well. The griddle is great for eggs and bacon. The grill adds smoky flavor to your food. Its small size fits well in tight spaces.
Whether you’re hosting a party or cooking dinner, this grill delivers tasty results every time.
Key Features to Compare
Performance and Cooking Efficiency
When it comes to cooking performance, you want a grill that heats up quickly and cooks food evenly. The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo stands out with its dual-fuel system. You can use charcoal for that smoky flavor or switch to gas for faster cooking. Its airflow controls and gas knobs make it easy to adjust the heat. This means you can sear steaks perfectly or slow-cook ribs without much hassle.
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 takes things up a notch with its DigitalFan™ technology. It keeps the temperature steady, so you don’t have to babysit the grill. Imagine reaching 700°F in just 14 minutes! That’s perfect for searing or making crispy pizzas. Plus, the charcoal hopper lets you cook for hours without refueling. This makes it a great choice for long smoking sessions or big family meals.
The Char-Griller Duo 5050 offers reliable cooking performance too. It may not have fancy tech, but it gets the job done. The griddle heats evenly, which is great for pancakes or eggs. The charcoal side gives your food that classic smoky taste, while the gas side is perfect for quick weeknight dinners. Whether you’re grilling burgers or veggies, this combo delivers consistent results.
Durability and Build Quality
You want a grill that lasts, right? The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo is built like a tank. Its heavy steel construction can handle years of use. Even if you grill every weekend, this one won’t let you down. The grates are sturdy and resist warping, so you can cook with confidence.
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 is also well-made. Its steel body feels solid, and the griddle surface is durable. However, the digital components need a bit more care. If you’re someone who values tech features, this grill offers a good balance of durability and innovation.
The Char-Griller Duo 5050 is a bit lighter in build, but it’s still tough enough for regular use. Its steel frame holds up well, even in outdoor conditions. Just make sure to cover it when not in use to prevent rust. This grill is a great option if you’re looking for something affordable yet reliable.
Versatility in Cooking Options
A charcoal grill and griddle combo should do more than just grill. The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo shines here. You can grill, smoke, and even use the griddle for breakfast foods. Its large cooking space lets you prepare multiple dishes at once. Hosting a barbecue? No problem. You can grill burgers on one side and smoke brisket on the other.
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 is a true multitasker. It’s not just a grill; it’s also a smoker and a griddle. You can switch between cooking styles effortlessly. During tests, it excelled at grilling steaks, smoking ribs, and even making pancakes. The intuitive controls make it easy to adjust settings, so you can focus on enjoying the process.
The Char-Griller Duo 5050 keeps things simple but effective. You can switch between gas and charcoal depending on your mood. The griddle is perfect for breakfast, while the grill handles everything from burgers to veggies. It’s a versatile option for casual cooks who want a bit of everything.
Tip: If you’re looking for flat top grills, the griddle feature on these combos is a great alternative. It gives you the same versatility without needing a separate flat top grill.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
When you’re choosing a charcoal grill and griddle combo, ease of use and maintenance can make or break your experience. After all, no one wants to wrestle with a complicated setup or spend hours cleaning up after a cookout.
Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo
This grill offers a straightforward design that’s easy to navigate. Switching between charcoal and gas is seamless, so you can focus on cooking instead of fiddling with controls. The airflow system and gas knobs make temperature adjustments simple, even for beginners. Cleaning, however, takes a bit more effort. The large cooking area means more grates to scrub, and the heavy steel build requires regular maintenance to prevent rust.
Pro Tip: Use a grill brush after each session to keep the grates clean and extend their lifespan.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800
If you love tech, this grill is your dream come true. The DigitalFan™ technology automates temperature control, so you can set it and forget it. The charcoal hopper is another win—it feeds fuel automatically, saving you from constant refills. Cleaning is relatively easy, thanks to the removable ash bin and grease tray. However, the digital components need extra care. Avoid exposing them to harsh weather, and store the grill under a cover when not in use.
Char-Griller Duo 5050
This grill keeps things simple, which is great if you’re not into high-tech gadgets. The dual-fuel system is easy to operate, and the griddle heats up quickly for breakfast favorites like eggs and bacon. Maintenance is manageable, but you’ll need to clean both the charcoal and gas sections separately. The smaller size makes it easier to store, but don’t forget to cover it to protect against rust.
Note: Regular maintenance, like emptying ash and cleaning grease trays, can make your grill last longer and perform better.
Value for Money
You want a grill that delivers great results without breaking the bank. Let’s see how these combos stack up in terms of value.
Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo
This grill offers excellent value for its price. You’re essentially getting two grills in one, plus a griddle. The heavy steel construction ensures durability, making it a long-term investment. While it’s not the cheapest option, the versatility and build quality justify the cost. If you’re serious about outdoor cooking, this grill is worth every penny.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800
This grill is a bit pricier, but it’s packed with features. The DigitalFan™ technology, charcoal hopper, and multi-functionality (grill, smoker, and griddle) make it a standout choice. It’s perfect for tech-savvy cooks who want precision and convenience. While the upfront cost is higher, the time and effort you save make it a smart buy for frequent grillers.
Char-Griller Duo 5050
If you’re on a budget, this grill is a solid pick. It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of the other models, but it gets the job done. The dual-fuel system and griddle add versatility, and the smaller size makes it ideal for casual cooks. It’s not as durable as the others, but with proper care, it can last for years. For the price, it’s hard to beat.
Tip: Consider how often you’ll use your grill and what features matter most to you. A higher upfront cost might save you money in the long run if the grill lasts longer and performs better.
Pros and Cons of Each System
Pros of Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo
Dual-fuel versatility: You can switch between charcoal and gas, giving you more options for cooking. Whether you want smoky ribs or quick-grilled burgers, this combo has you covered.
Large cooking space: With 1,060 square inches, you can cook for a crowd without feeling cramped. It’s perfect for hosting family gatherings or backyard parties.
Durable construction: The heavy steel build ensures this grill lasts for years. You won’t have to worry about wear and tear from regular use.
Easy temperature control: The airflow system and gas knobs make adjusting heat simple. You can cook everything from delicate fish to seared steaks with precision.
Griddle performance: The griddle heats evenly, making it ideal for breakfast favorites like pancakes and eggs.
Tip: If you’re planning to cook multiple dishes at once, the spacious design of this grill makes it a great choice.
Cons of Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo
Heavy and bulky: Its size and weight make it hard to move around. If you need portability, this grill might not be the best fit.
Maintenance effort: Cleaning the large cooking area takes time. You’ll need to scrub the grates and manage ash buildup regularly.
Higher price point: While it offers great features, it’s not the cheapest option. If you’re on a tight budget, this grill might feel like a splurge.
No flat top grill: Although the griddle is versatile, it doesn’t fully replace the functionality of dedicated flat top grills.
Note: If portability or quick cleanup is important to you, consider other options that are lighter and easier to maintain.
Pros of Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800
Tech-savvy design: The DigitalFan™ technology keeps the temperature steady, so you don’t have to monitor it constantly. It’s perfect for precise cooking.
Quick heating: This grill reaches 225°F in 8 minutes and 700°F in 14 minutes. You can start cooking faster without waiting for the grill to heat up.
Multi-functionality: It’s not just a grill—it’s also a smoker and a griddle. You can switch between cooking styles effortlessly.
Long cooking sessions: The charcoal hopper lets you cook for up to 10 hours without refueling. It’s ideal for smoking brisket or hosting long cookouts.
Easy cleanup: The removable ash bin and grease tray make cleaning simple. You’ll spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your food.
Tip: If you love experimenting with different cooking styles, this grill’s versatility makes it a standout choice.
Cons of Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800
Digital components require care: The advanced tech features, like the DigitalFan™, need extra attention. If exposed to harsh weather, they can malfunction. You’ll need to store this grill under a cover or indoors when not in use.
Pricey upfront cost: While packed with features, this grill comes with a higher price tag. If you’re on a budget, it might feel like a stretch.
Heavy design: Moving this grill around isn’t easy. Its solid steel construction adds weight, making it less portable.
Learning curve for tech: If you’re not familiar with digital controls, it might take time to get comfortable. The tech-savvy design isn’t as intuitive for beginners.
Limited flat top grill experience: While the griddle is versatile, it doesn’t fully replicate the experience of dedicated flat top grills.
Tip: If you value portability or simplicity, consider a lighter grill with fewer tech features.
Pros of Char-Griller Duo 5050
Dual cooking options: You can switch between charcoal and gas grilling effortlessly. This flexibility lets you enjoy smoky flavors or quick meals depending on your mood.
Compact design: Its smaller size fits well in tight spaces, making it ideal for patios or small backyards.
Affordable price: This grill offers great value for money. You get a reliable griddle and grill combo without spending a fortune.
Optional smoker attachment: You can add an offset charcoal firebox for smoking, giving you even more cooking options.
Convenient features: The side shelf doubles as a gas burner, and utensil hooks keep your tools handy.
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Cooking Capacity | |
Gas Side BTU | 40,800 BTU with 3 burners, plus a 12,000 BTU side burner |
Charcoal Grill Features | Adjustable charcoal grate, though design is noted as subpar |
Warranty | 5-year burner warranty, 1-year warranty on other parts |
Additional Features | Optional offset charcoal firebox for smoking, battery-powered ignitor |
Design Notes | Hooks for utensils on side shelf, shelf converts to side gas burner |
Note: If you’re looking for a versatile grill and griddle combo that doesn’t break the bank, this one’s a solid choice.
Cons of Char-Griller Duo 5050
Subpar charcoal grate design: The adjustable charcoal grate feels flimsy. It doesn’t offer the same durability as other models.
Limited cooking space: While compact, the cooking area might feel cramped for larger gatherings. You’ll need to cook in batches for big groups.
Short warranty on parts: The 1-year warranty on non-burner parts is shorter than expected. You’ll need to handle it with care to avoid issues.
Maintenance effort: Cleaning both the charcoal and gas sections separately takes time. You’ll need to stay on top of regular upkeep.
No dedicated flat top grill: The griddle works well for breakfast foods, but it doesn’t fully replace the functionality of a flat top grill.
Tip: If you’re planning to host large cookouts, consider a grill with more cooking space to avoid feeling limited.
Best Use Cases for Each System
Great for Camping
Camping trips are better with a charcoal grill and griddle combo. The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo is like having a mini outdoor kitchen. Its big cooking area lets you grill burgers and steaks while making pancakes or eggs on the griddle. You can switch between charcoal and gas, depending on what you’re cooking.
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 is another awesome camping option. Its DigitalFan™ keeps the temperature steady, so you can relax instead of watching the grill. The charcoal hopper burns for hours, perfect for slow-cooking ribs or smoking brisket by the campfire.
For smaller camping setups, the Char-Griller Duo 5050 is a great fit. It’s easy to carry and doesn’t take up much space. The dual-fuel system lets you cook different meals, from grilled veggies to pancakes on the griddle.
Tip: Choose a lightweight grill like the Char-Griller Duo 5050 for easier packing and moving during camping trips.
Best for Backyard Grilling
Backyard grilling should be simple and tasty. The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo is perfect for this. Its large size makes it great for family cookouts or barbecues. Grill ribs on the charcoal side and burgers on the gas side at the same time. The griddle is handy for making breakfast or sides.
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 is for backyard chefs who like to try new things. It heats up fast, so you can sear steaks or bake pizzas quickly. The griddle is great for crispy bacon or veggies. The smoker adds smoky flavors that will wow your guests.
The Char-Griller Duo 5050 is a solid choice for smaller backyards. It fits in tight spaces and switches easily between charcoal and gas. Use the griddle for breakfast and the grill for chicken or kebabs.
Note: For big gatherings, the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo has the most space to cook for everyone.
Ideal for Tailgating
Tailgating needs a grill that’s easy to carry and set up. The Char-Griller Duo 5050 is perfect for this. It’s small and light, so you can bring it anywhere. Grill burgers on the charcoal side and make hot dogs or quesadillas on the griddle. Add the smoker attachment for even more options.
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 is a high-tech tailgating choice. It heats up fast, so you can start cooking right away. The charcoal hopper keeps the heat going for hours, letting you grill, smoke, or use the griddle without stopping. Reviewers loved its easy setup and steady cooking, making it great for portable use.
The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo is bigger and harder to move, but it’s still good for tailgating near home. Use the dual-fuel system to cook a variety of dishes, and the griddle is perfect for breakfast before the game.
Tip: For tailgating, pick grills that are light and simple to set up. The Char-Griller Duo 5050 is a top choice for portability and ease.
Choosing the best charcoal grill and griddle combo depends on your needs. If you want versatility and durability, Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo is a great pick. For tech-savvy cooking, Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 offers precision and convenience. Char-Griller Duo 5050 is perfect for budget-conscious buyers or those who need a compact option.
Think about how you’ll use your grill. Do you need a flat top grill for breakfast? Or are you looking for the best grill smoker combos for backyard parties? Evaluate your cooking style and space to find the right fit.
FAQ
What’s the best charcoal grill and griddle combo for beginners?
If you’re just starting, the Char-Griller Duo 5050 is a great pick. It’s simple to use, affordable, and doesn’t overwhelm you with tech features. You can easily switch between charcoal and gas, making it perfect for learning the basics.
Can I use these grills in bad weather?
You can, but it’s better to avoid it. Rain or snow can damage parts, especially digital components like those on the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800. Always use a grill cover and store it in a dry place to keep it in top shape.
How do I clean the griddle surface?
Cleaning is easy! After cooking, let the griddle cool slightly. Scrape off food bits with a spatula, then wipe it down with a damp cloth. For stubborn grease, use a little soapy water. Don’t forget to dry it completely to prevent rust.
Which grill is best for large gatherings?
The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo is your go-to for big cookouts. Its massive 1,060 square inches of cooking space lets you grill, smoke, and griddle multiple dishes at once. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking a sweat.
Do these grills come with a warranty?
Yes! Each grill has a warranty, but the coverage varies. For example, the Char-Griller Duo 5050 offers a 5-year warranty on burners and 1 year on other parts. Always check the manufacturer’s details before buying.
Tip: Register your grill after purchase to activate the warranty and get support if needed.
See Also
Best Charcoal Rotisserie Grills You Need This Year
Essential Tips For Keeping Your Charcoal Grill Clean
Transform Your Grill Into A Delicious Pizza Oven