Why Settle for One Fuel When You Can Have Both?
Every backyard chef knows the dilemma. Gas grills offer speed and convenience – push a button, and you’re cooking in minutes. Charcoal grills deliver that unmistakable smoky flavor that reminds you of summer cookouts from childhood. But what if you didn’t have to choose?
Enter the LAUDLIFE gas and charcoal grill combo. This thoughtfully designed outdoor cooking station gives you the best of both worlds without taking over your entire patio. Whether you’re rushing to get dinner on the table after work or hosting a lazy Saturday barbecue with slow-smoked ribs, this dual fuel system adapts to your mood, your schedule, and your appetite.
I’ve spent several weeks testing this 3 burner propane BBQ grill alongside its charcoal companion. I’ve grilled burgers, seared steaks, roasted vegetables, and even used the side burner for simmering baked beans. The goal wasn’t just to admire its features but to see if it genuinely solves the “gas vs. charcoal” debate for real families.
The short answer? It comes closer than any grill I’ve used under $500.
But let’s back up. If you’re tired of owning two separate grills – one rusting in the corner while the other gets all the action – or if you’ve been hesitant to buy a combo because you assume one side will be compromised, stick with me. I’ll walk through every detail: the build, the burners, the grates, the cleanup, and the real-world cooking results.
By the end, you’ll know exactly why this gas and charcoal grill combo belongs on your patio. And yes, there’s a clear call-to-action at the bottom. No pressure – just honest insights from someone who loves cooking outdoors.
The Problem: One Grill Never Seems Enough
Let’s be honest about the typical backyard grilling struggle.
Gas Grills Are Fast but Lack Soul
Propane grills heat up in five to ten minutes. You turn the knob, the igniter clicks, and flames appear. For weeknight chicken thighs or quick hot dogs, nothing beats that efficiency. But something’s missing. That deep, smokey essence – the kind that makes neighbors wander over with empty plates – rarely comes from gas alone. Even with smoker boxes or wood chips wrapped in foil, gas grills struggle to replicate real charcoal flavor.
Charcoal Grills Taste Amazing but Test Your Patience
On the other hand, charcoal grills produce incredible results. The radiant heat, the aroma of burning lump charcoal, the sear marks that look like a steakhouse advertisement – it’s hard to beat. But waiting 20–30 minutes for coals to ash over? Cleaning out the cold ash after every cook? Managing flare-ups without a simple knob to turn down? On a Tuesday night after a long workday, charcoal feels like a commitment, not a convenience.
Owning Two Grills Clutters Your Space
Some people solve this by buying both. Then your deck looks like a grill showroom. Two bulky units eat up square footage, require separate covers, double the maintenance, and cost twice as much. For anyone with a modest patio, balcony, or even a standard suburban backyard, two grills is overkill.
The real solution isn’t more grills – it’s a smarter gas and charcoal grill combo that handles both roles without compromise.
Introducing the LAUDLIFE Dual Fuel Grill
The LAUDLIFE model I’m reviewing combines a three-burner propane system on one side and a dedicated charcoal chamber on the other. Between them sits a convenient side burner – perfect for sauces, sides, or keeping barbecue sauce warm. The entire unit rests on a heavy-duty BBQ stand with locking casters, so it stays planted while you work but rolls easily for storage.
Let’s break down exactly what you’re getting.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fuel Types | Propane (3 burners) + Charcoal |
| Main Cooking Area | Approx. 400 sq in (gas) + 200 sq in (charcoal) |
| Side Burner | 10,000 BTU |
| Grate Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron (non-stick enamel grates) |
| Ignition | Piezo push-button for gas side |
| Stand Material | Powder-coated steel |
| Wheels | 2 locking casters, 2 fixed wheels |
| Assembly Required | Moderate (tools included) |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
The numbers are respectable, but specs only tell half the story. Let’s talk about what it’s actually like to cook on this thing.
Deep Dive: The Gas Side – 3 Burner Propane BBQ Grill Performance
If you’re someone who grills multiple times per week, the propane side will likely become your workhorse. The LAUDLIFE 3 burner propane BBQ grill delivers consistent heat across three independently controlled stainless steel burners.
Even Heat Distribution
I tested the gas side with a loaf of sliced white bread – an old pitmaster trick to spot hot and cold zones. After five minutes on medium heat, the bread toasted uniformly from left to right. No pale corners, no burnt centers. That tells me the burner layout and the design of the flame tamers (the metal shields above the burners) do their job.
Temperature Range
Low settings hover around 250°F – perfect for indirect cooking like beer can chicken or a foil pack of potatoes. High settings climb past 550°F, giving you genuine searing capability. I reverse-seared a 1.5-inch ribeye by starting on the cooler side of the gas grill, then finishing directly over the hottest burner. The crust formed quickly without drying out the interior.
Practical Use Case: Weeknight Burgers
After a 10-hour workday, the last thing I want is to fuss with charcoal. With the 3 burner propane BBQ grill, I preheated for six minutes, threw on four half-pound patties, and closed the lid. Three minutes per side, a quick melt of cheddar, and dinner was ready. The non-stick enamel grates released the burgers cleanly – no sticking or tearing. Cleanup took two minutes with a grill brush.
That’s the convenience factor. And it’s genuine.
Deep Dive: The Charcoal Side – Real Smoke, Real Flavor
Weekends are for the charcoal side. This is where the LAUDLIFE gas and charcoal grill combo shines for anyone who loves low-and-slow barbecue or high-heat searing with that signature smokiness.
The charcoal chamber isn’t an afterthought. It features an adjustable charcoal tray that raises and lowers via a handle on the outside. Raise it close to the grates for intense, direct heat – perfect for searing steaks or charring peppers. Lower it for indirect cooking, allowing smoke to circulate around ribs, pork shoulder, or whole chickens.
Getting the Coals Going
There’s no gas-assist charcoal ignition (common on premium hybrids), but that’s fine. Use a chimney starter – it takes 15 minutes to get coals glowing red. Once dumped into the tray, you’re ready. The side burner can actually help here: use it to light your chimney starter outdoors without running inside to your kitchen stove.
Smoke Flavor Without a Dedicated Smoker
I smoked two racks of baby back ribs for three hours using the charcoal side with hickory chunks. Temperature management was straightforward: adjust the tray height and control airflow with the built-in dampers. The ribs emerged with a beautiful pink smoke ring, tender enough to pull apart with a fork. Not bad for a combo grill.
Use Case: Weekend Backyard Party
Imagine inviting eight friends over for a summer barbecue. With the gas and charcoal grill combo, you can run both sides simultaneously. I cooked burgers and hot dogs on the gas side for the kids who wanted food fast, while the charcoal side handled a beer-can chicken and corn on the cob with mesquite smoke. The side burner kept a pot of mac and cheese warm.
Nobody waited more than a few minutes. And cleanup? Because the grates are non-stick, even the sticky barbecue glaze wiped off easily.
The Standout Feature: Non-Stick Enamel Grates
Let’s talk about the non-stick enamel grates because this might be my favorite feature. Most grills under $300 use bare cast iron or cheap stainless steel rods. Bare cast iron rusts if you look at it wrong. Cheap stainless doesn’t hold heat and food sticks like glue.
The LAUDLIFE grates are porcelain-enameled cast iron. That means:
- Excellent heat retention – better searing than thin wire grates
- Naturally non-stick surface – fish fillets and skin-on chicken don’t tear
- Rust-resistant – the enamel coating won’t corrode for years
- Easy to clean – a damp cloth after preheating removes most residue
After two weeks of heavy use (including sugary barbecue sauces and acidic lemon marinades), the grates still look nearly new. I’ve scrubbed them with a nylon brush and warm soapy water – no chipping, no flaking.
If you’ve ever cussed at a cheap grill while scraping burnt chicken skin off rusted grates, you’ll appreciate this upgrade immediately.
Heavy-Duty BBQ Stand: Stability Matters
A grill can have the best burners in the world, but if it wobbles every time you flip a burger, it’s a hazard. The heavy-duty BBQ stand on this LAUDLIFE model impressed me more than I expected.
Construction Quality
The frame is powder-coated steel – not the flimsy, thin metal you find on discount grills. Legs measure 1.5 inches square, with cross-bracing underneath. The entire unit feels solid. When I lean on the side shelf to check internal temperatures with my thermometer, nothing shifts.
Mobility and Locking
Two locking casters go on the front legs. Push down the levers, and the grill stays put – even when you’re yanking a stubborn lid closed. The rear wheels are fixed but roll smoothly across grass or pavers. Moving the grill from my deck to the driveway for a tailgate-style cook took less than a minute.
Shelf Space
Two side shelves fold down for compact storage. When extended, they provide enough room for a cutting board, a plate of raw meat, and your grilling tools. The left shelf also holds the side burner – more on that next.
Side Burner: Small but Mighty
The side burner adds 10,000 BTUs of extra cooking capacity. For context, that’s similar to a medium-output kitchen stove burner.
What Can You Cook on a Side Burner?
- Simmer baked beans while ribs finish on the charcoal side
- Sauté onions and peppers for sausages
- Boil corn on the cob or potatoes
- Melt butter with garlic for basting
- Keep barbecue sauce warm without scorching
- Light a charcoal chimney starter (wind-protected)
The burner is recessed into the shelf, which helps contain spills. A removable grate sits over the burner – easy to clean. I will note that it’s not a high-BTU wok burner. Don’t expect to stir-fry at restaurant temperatures. For everyday sides and sauces, though, it’s genuinely useful.
Use Case: Full Meal, One Grill
Picture this: Gas side is grilling salmon fillets. Charcoal side is roasting asparagus in a cast-iron pan. Side burner is gently simmering a lemon-dill sauce. You’re cooking an entire dinner for four on a single gas and charcoal grill combo without stepping foot in your kitchen. That’s the kind of efficiency that makes outdoor cooking fun instead of frantic.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Pros
- True dual-fuel versatility – no meaningful compromise on gas convenience or charcoal flavor
- Non-stick enamel grates – superior to bare cast iron or cheap wire grates
- Sturdy heavy-duty BBQ stand – no wobble, rolls easily, locks securely
- Generous cooking area – enough space for a family gathering or small party
- Side burner included – adds real utility for sides and sauces
- Adjustable charcoal tray – gives you temperature control without fancy gadgets
- Tool hooks and shelf space – keeps essentials within reach
- Easy to clean – grates and drip tray pull out for maintenance
Cons
- Assembly takes time – plan for 60–90 minutes (instructions are clear but parts are many)
- No built-in thermometer – buy a separate instant-read or grill surface thermometer
- Charcoal side lacks ash catcher – you’ll sweep ash out manually after cooling
- Side burner lid is plastic – feels less premium than the rest of the grill
- Limited warranty – 1 year is standard at this price, but longer would be nice
- Heavy when fully assembled – two people recommended for moving
Who Is This Grill For?
The LAUDLIFE gas and charcoal grill combo isn’t for everyone. But if you recognize yourself in any of these scenarios, it’s probably a great fit.
The Space-Conscious Griller
You want both fuel types but your patio measures 10×10 feet. Buying two separate grills isn’t realistic. This combo occupies roughly the same footprint as a standard four-burner gas grill.
The Flavor Chaser Who Also Values Weeknights
You love the taste of charcoal but hate the wait. On Tuesday, you use gas. On Saturday, you break out the lump charcoal. One grill handles both without judgment.
The Host Who Cooks for Crowds
Running two sides simultaneously cuts wait times in half. Gas handles the quick stuff (burgers, dogs, veggie skewers). Charcoal handles the star attraction (brisket, whole chicken, pizza on a stone).
The Budget-Minded Shopper
Quality dual-fuel grills from premium brands often exceed $800. The LAUDLIFE combo comes in at a fraction of that. You’re not getting luxury-brand fit and finish, but you’re getting real functionality without a four-figure price tag.
Assembly and First Impressions
The grill arrives in a large, heavy box. Clear the garage or living room floor before unboxing.
What’s in the Box
- Main grill body (gas and charcoal sides pre-attached to stand base)
- Two side shelves (one with side burner)
- Cooking grates (four pieces – two for gas, two for charcoal)
- Flame tamers and burner covers
- Charcoal tray and adjustment handle
- Drip tray and grease cup
- Hardware kit (bolts, washers, nuts, wrench, screwdriver)
- Illustrated manual
Assembly Tips
Set aside 90 minutes. Have a second person help with lifting and aligning the side shelves. An electric screwdriver with a hex bit speeds things up, but a manual Allen wrench works fine.
The instructions are picture-based with minimal text. I found them logical, though some steps require rereading. My only complaint: the hardware bag isn’t labeled. Sort bolts by size before starting.
First Cook
Season the grates by coating them with high-smoke-point oil (avocado or canola) and heating the gas side on medium for 15 minutes. For the charcoal side, burn a small load of coals to burn off any manufacturing residue. After that, you’re ready.
Care and Maintenance
A gas and charcoal grill combo has more moving parts than a single-fuel grill, but maintenance remains straightforward.
After Every Cook
- Scrape the non-stick enamel grates with a nylon brush (metal brushes can scratch enamel over time)
- Wipe down exterior with a damp cloth
- Close propane tank valve
Weekly
- Remove grates and flame tamers. Vacuum or brush debris from burner tubes.
- Check grease drip tray – empty if half full
- For charcoal side, dump cold ash into a metal container
Monthly
- Inspect propane hose for cracks
- Tighten any loose bolts on the heavy-duty BBQ stand
- Clean side burner jet with a needle if flame pattern looks uneven
Seasonal (Before Storage)
- Cover the grill with a waterproof cover (sold separately)
- Disconnect propane tank and store upright outside
- Remove charcoal residue completely to prevent moisture rust
With reasonable care, this grill should easily last five to seven years. The enamel grates resist rust far better than uncoated cast iron – that alone extends the usable life significantly.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use both gas and charcoal sides at the same time?
Yes, absolutely. That’s the whole point of a gas and charcoal grill combo. Each side operates independently. Just be mindful of the total heat output – don’t place heat-sensitive items like plastic cutting boards too close to the charcoal side when it’s roaring hot.
Q: Does the charcoal side work as a smoker?
For true low-and-slow smoking (225–275°F for 6+ hours), a dedicated smoker is better. However, for shorter smokes like ribs (3–4 hours), chicken, or pork shoulder (5–6 hours with charcoal replenishment), the LAUDLIFE works well. Use the adjustable tray in the lowest position, add wood chunks, and monitor temperature with a probe thermometer.
Q: How do the non-stick enamel grates hold up over time?
I’ve used similarly coated grates on another grill for three years without issues. The key is avoiding metal scrapers and abrasive cleaners. Use nylon brushes or a wooden scraper. Also, don’t preheat the grill empty for 20+ minutes – that can degrade the enamel. Five to ten minutes is plenty.
Q: Is this grill okay for a small balcony?
Check fire codes first. Many apartments prohibit charcoal grills on balconies but allow propane. The LAUDLIFE gas and charcoal grill combo uses charcoal, so it may not be permitted in multifamily housing. For single-family homes or ground-floor patios, you’re fine.
Q: Does it come with a propane tank?
No. You’ll need to buy a standard 20-pound propane tank separately. Most hardware stores sell them filled (or exchange empties). The grill uses a typical Type 1 connection.
Q: Can I convert it to natural gas?
The manufacturer does not provide a natural gas conversion kit. Attempting an aftermarket conversion could void the warranty and creates safety risks. Stick with propane unless you’re a certified gas technician.
Q: How portable is this grill?
It’s not a tailgate-sized portable grill. At roughly 90 pounds assembled, it’s a backyard fixture. The wheels help you move it around your property – from deck to patio to driveway – but you won’t toss it in an SUV for camping.
Price and Value Comparison
At its typical retail price (check current Amazon pricing – it fluctuates seasonally), the LAUDLIFE gas and charcoal grill combo sits in the budget-to-midrange category.
To buy a decent 3-burner propane grill and a separate kettle charcoal grill from reputable brands, you’d spend roughly the same or more – and you’d still lack the side burner and the unified heavy-duty BBQ stand.
Factoring in the non-stick enamel grates (a feature usually found on grills costing $100 more), the value proposition is strong. You’re essentially paying for one grill but getting two cooking platforms plus a side burner.
Where does LAUDLIFE cut costs? The hardware (bolts, plastic handles, side burner lid) feels economy-grade. The lack of a built-in lid thermometer is a minor annoyance. But the core cooking components – burners, grates, charcoal tray, and stand – are built to last.
If you compare it to a premium brand like Weber or Napoleon, the fit and finish aren’t the same. But those dual-fuel options cost two to three times more. For the vast majority of home grillers, the LAUDLIFE delivers 85% of the performance at 40% of the price. That’s a winning formula.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy This Grill?
After weeks of cooking everything from quick weeknight burgers to all-day smoked ribs, I can confidently recommend the LAUDLIFE gas and charcoal grill combo to anyone who:
- Wants both gas convenience and charcoal flavor without owning two separate grills
- Has modest to medium patio space
- Cooks for families of 2–8 people most of the time
- Appreciates easy-cleaning non-stick enamel grates
- Needs a stable, movable heavy-duty BBQ stand that won’t wobble
- Wants a side burner for sauces, sides, or lighting a chimney starter
The downsides – assembly time, manual ash cleanup, cheap plastic lid on the side burner – are real but minor. None of them affect the actual cooking quality.
This grill solves the “gas or charcoal?” dilemma by giving you both, without forcing you to upgrade to a four-figure luxury model. It’s honest, hard-working, and built with the right priorities: even heat, easy cleanup, and real smoke flavor when you want it.
If you’re still dragging out a rusty charcoal kettle on weekends and a beat-up gas grill on weeknights, do yourself a favor. Consolidate. Simplify. And start cooking on a gas and charcoal grill combo that actually delivers on its promise.
Ready to Upgrade Your Backdoor BBQ Game?
You’ve read the details. You’ve seen the pros and cons. You know that this LAUDLIFE grill offers genuine dual-fuel flexibility, durable non-stick enamel grates, a handy side burner, and a heavy-duty BBQ stand that keeps everything stable.
The only thing left is to click the button below, check the latest price on Amazon, and decide if today is the day you stop choosing between speed and flavor.
Click here to see the LAUDLIFE Gas and Charcoal Grill Combo on Amazon – and read the latest customer reviews while you’re there. Your backyard cookouts are about to get a whole lot more interesting.
