Enterthedeals Char-Griller Dual Function Gas and Charcoal Grill
Introduction
The Char-Griller Dual Function Gas and Charcoal Grill is a hybrid backyard cooker that gives you the choice of gas convenience and charcoal flavor in a single unit. Manufactured by Char-Griller, a company known for accessible, value-oriented outdoor cooking equipment, this grill is marketed to homeowners and backyard chefs who want flexibility without buying two separate grills. Priced at $399.99, it targets users who want a multi-purpose cooker for everyday grilling, weekend barbecues, and occasional smoking.
Brief Overview
Product: Char-Griller Dual Function Gas and Charcoal Grill
Manufacturer: Char-Griller
Category: Hybrid (dual-function) outdoor grill — gas and charcoal combination
Intended use: Backyard grilling and casual outdoor cooking, enabling users to switch between gas for quick meals and charcoal for traditional smoky flavor; suitable for family meals, small gatherings, and occasional low-and-slow smoking.
Appearance, Materials, and Design
The Char-Griller Dual Function has a pragmatic, utilitarian aesthetic typical of budget-friendly grills: primarily heavy gauge steel with a matte, heat-resistant finish. The unit is built as two adjacent cooking chambers — one configured for propane or natural gas burners and the other configured for charcoal. Each chamber has its own lid; lids often include stamped or recessed temperature gauges (check your model for gauges).
Grates appear to be cast iron or porcelain-coated steel (models vary), which balances heat retention with easier cleaning. The grill sits on a wheeled cart or legs with casters for mobility. The finish and hardware are simple and serviceable rather than luxurious, emphasizing functionality over premium styling.
Unique design elements:
- Side-by-side dual chambers allow two different fuel types to be used simultaneously or independently.
- Dedicated lids and dampers for better temperature control in each chamber.
- Often includes foldable or fixed side shelves and under-grill storage for tools or a gas tank.
Key Features & Specifications
Below are the typical and notable features you can expect from the Char-Griller Dual Function Gas and Charcoal Grill. Exact specifications may vary by model year; consult product documentation for precise numbers.
- Dual cooking chambers — one gas side and one charcoal side for simultaneous or independent operation.
- Multiple cooking grates, usually cast-iron or porcelain-coated for even heat and searing.
- Integrated temperature gauge(s) in lid(s) for better monitoring of internal temps.
- Heavy-gauge steel construction with heat-resistant paint.
- Adjustable charcoal pan or charcoal tray to control burn intensity and ash removal.
- Piezo or electronic ignition on the gas side for reliable start-up (model-dependent).
- Side shelves and/or tool hooks for convenience; wheeled base for portability.
- Grease collection system (simple tray or removable pan) for maintenance.
- Price point: $399.99 (at time of review).
Using the Grill — Real-World Experience
I evaluated the Char-Griller Dual Function across several common grilling scenarios to highlight how it performs in practice.
Everyday Quick Grilling (Gas Side)
The gas side is ideal for weeknight meals. It lights quickly (piezo/electronic ignition) and reaches cooking temperature in minutes. Heat response is immediate, making it easy to sear steaks, cook burgers, or grill vegetables with precise timing. The burner(s) provide consistent heat for direct grilling, and cleanup is straightforward compared with charcoal.
Traditional Charcoal Grilling
When you fire up the charcoal side, you get the classic smoky flavor and the capacity for high-temperature searing if you bank the coals appropriately. The charcoal chamber takes a bit longer to come up to temp and requires more hands-on attention (adjusting vents, adding coals, dealing with ash), but the flavor payoff for steaks and chicken is noticeable. The charcoal tray and adjustable height options make it relatively easy to dial in direct vs. indirect heat zones.
Smoking and Low-and-Slow
While not a dedicated smoker, the charcoal side can be used for low-and-slow cooking if you manage airflow and maintain a steady low temperature. The dual-lid design helps retain heat and smoke. For extended smoke sessions, expect to tend the coals and add fuel periodically — it works, but it’s more labor-intensive than a dedicated pellet or offset smoker.
Dual-Fuel Flexibility
One of the biggest practical advantages is being able to use both chambers at once: sear on charcoal and finish on gas, or keep food warm on one side while actively grilling on the other. This makes dinner prep much more flexible for mixed menus (e.g., seared steaks + grilled vegetables). Be mindful that managing two different heat sources takes some practice to get timing and temperatures right.
Assembly, Maintenance, and Durability
Assembly is moderate in difficulty; the heavy steel parts mean some components are bulky. Clear instructions help but expect a couple-hour build time with a second person for some steps. Routine maintenance is straightforward: empty the ash tray, clean grates after use, and wipe grease pans. The steel body will eventually show wear if exposed to weather — a cover and seasonal maintenance extend life.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- True dual-function design — switch between gas convenience and charcoal flavor without owning two grills.
- Good value at $399.99 for the versatility it provides.
- Practical for mixed cooking styles — searing, direct grilling, keeping warm, and occasional smoking.
- Sturdy steel construction feels solid and durable for everyday use.
- Relatively easy to use the gas side for quick meals; charcoal side delivers authentic smoky flavor.
Cons
- Not as refined as premium single-purpose grills — some heat variation and hot spots can occur, particularly on the charcoal side.
- Heavier and bulkier than single-chamber grills; assembly can be time-consuming.
- Finish and fittings are functional but not premium; elements may show wear if left outdoors year-round.
- Managing two heat sources at once requires practice — beginners may find balancing temperatures tricky.
- Limited advanced features found on higher-end grills (no built-in rotisserie, limited insulation for long smoke sessions unless modified).
Conclusion
The Char-Griller Dual Function Gas and Charcoal Grill is a compelling option if you want flexibility in your outdoor cooking without purchasing two separate machines. At $399.99, it delivers good value: a robust steel build, workable cooking surfaces, and the practical advantage of both gas convenience and charcoal flavor in one footprint.
It’s best suited to backyard cooks who appreciate having options — the gas side for weekday speed and the charcoal side for weekend flavor experiments. It isn’t a premium, precision instrument, so if you want flawless temperature control for serious smoking or professional-level features, a dedicated cooker might be a better fit. But for most homeowners seeking versatility, durability, and straightforward performance at a reasonable price, this Char-Griller model is a solid, practical choice.
