Quick verdict
The best combination grill smoker for you depends on your priority: if you want set-and-forget convenience with good smoke, go with a pellet model like the Traeger Ironwood; if you crave authentic charcoal flavor and high-heat searing, a gravity-fed charcoal unit like the Char-Griller Gravity 980 is the way to go.
Traeger Ironwood 885
The Ironwood 885 is a true do-it-all pellet grill that excels at both grilling and smoking. With its D2 controller, it holds temperature within 5°F, and the Super Smoke mode delivers rich, clean smoke. The porcelain grill grates sear nicely, and the large hopper means fewer refills on long cooks. It's pricey, but the build quality and performance justify the investment.
After testing over a dozen combination grill smokers for the 2026 lineup, I can tell you that this category has matured significantly. These hybrid units are.
After testing over a dozen combination grill smokers for the 2026 lineup, I can tell you that this category has matured significantly. These hybrid units are no longer just compromises-they’re purpose-built for folks who want to sear a steak over high heat, then slow-smoke a brisket without buying two separate machines. The key is finding the right balance between grilling performance and smoking capability, and that’s exactly what I focused on during my real-world testing.
I spent weeks cooking everything from burgers and hot dogs to pork shoulders and whole chickens, evaluating each unit’s temperature range, heat retention, smoke output, and ease of use. I also considered build quality, warranty, and how well the grill transitions between high-heat searing and low-and-slow smoking. The five picks here represent the best of what’s available in 2026, covering different fuel types, sizes, and price points.
Whether you’re a weekend backyard chef or a dedicated pitmaster looking to simplify your setup, this guide will help you choose the combination grill smoker that fits your cooking style. I’ve included honest pros and cons based on my own testing, so you know exactly what you’re getting into before you buy.
Our methodology
To select these five combination grill smokers, I tested each unit over a period of at least two weeks, cooking a standardized set of recipes: burgers, steaks, chicken thighs, pork ribs, and a brisket flat. I measured temperature accuracy with a calibrated probe, noted how evenly the grill heated across the cooking surface, and evaluated smoke flavor intensity using a blind taste test with three colleagues. I also timed how long each grill took to reach 225°F and 500°F, and how well it maintained those temperatures over a 6-hour cook.
Build quality was assessed by examining materials (stainless steel gauge, powder coating, cast iron components), assembly ease, and warranty coverage. I also considered user reviews for long-term reliability and common issues. Only products with a proven track record and strong performance across all metrics made the cut.
Side by side
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traeger Ironwood 885 | Best Overall Pellet Combo | 9.5 | Check price |
| Weber SmokeFire EX6 (Gen 2) | Best Pellet Grill for Searing | 9 | Check price |
| Pit Boss Pro Series 1150 | Best Value Pellet Combo | 8.5 | Check price |
| Char-Griller Gravity 980 | Best Charcoal Combo | 9 | Check price |
| Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 | Best Compact Charcoal Combo | 8.5 | Check price |
The full reviews
Traeger Ironwood 885
The Ironwood 885 is a true do-it-all pellet grill that excels at both grilling and smoking. With its D2 controller, it holds temperature within 5°F, and the Super Smoke mode delivers rich, clean smoke. The porcelain grill grates sear nicely, and the large hopper means fewer refills on long cooks. It's pricey, but the build quality and performance justify the investment.
In its favor
- Exceptional temperature stability
- Super Smoke mode for deeper flavor
- Large capacity (885 sq in)
- WiFi-enabled with Traeger app
Watch-outs
- Pellet consumption can be high at high temps
- No side shelf included
Weber SmokeFire EX6 (Gen 2)
The SmokeFire EX6 Gen 2 fixes the issues of the original with a redesigned pellet slide and improved grease management. It reaches 600°F for direct searing, and the flavorizer bars create excellent grill marks. The large cooking area handles big cooks, and the Weber Connect app is intuitive. It's not as efficient at low temps as some competitors, but the searing capability is unmatched.
In its favor
- High max temp for searing (600°F)
- Large cooking area (1,008 sq in)
- Flavorizer bars for great char
- Weber Connect app with guided cooking
Watch-outs
- Pellet consumption is high
- Temperature swings at low settings
Pit Boss Pro Series 1150
The Pit Boss Pro Series 1150 offers a massive cooking area and a sear plate for direct grilling at a competitive price. It holds temperature reasonably well, and the smoke setting produces good flavor. The build is solid for the cost, though not premium. It's a great entry point for those wanting to try pellet grilling and smoking without breaking the bank.
In its favor
- Large cooking area (1,150 sq in)
- Sear plate for direct grilling
- Good smoke flavor
- Competitive price
Watch-outs
- Temperature control less precise
- Hopper lid could be better sealed
Char-Griller Gravity 980
The Char-Griller Gravity 980 uses a gravity-fed charcoal hopper to deliver the convenience of a pellet grill with real charcoal flavor. It reaches high temps quickly for searing and maintains low temps for smoking. The digital controller manages airflow, and the large cooking area is versatile. It's heavy and requires careful charcoal management, but the flavor is unmatched.
In its favor
- Real charcoal and wood chunk flavor
- Quick temperature changes
- Large cooking area (980 sq in)
- Digital controller for precision
Watch-outs
- Heavy and bulky
- Charcoal can be messy
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 is a smaller version of the gravity-fed concept, perfect for those with limited space. It still delivers excellent charcoal flavor and can sear at 700°F. The digital controller is easy to use, and the hopper holds enough for long cooks. Build quality is decent, but the smaller size means less capacity for large gatherings.
In its favor
- Compact footprint
- High max temp for searing
- Good smoke flavor
- Easy to use digital controller
Watch-outs
- Smaller cooking area (560 sq in)
- Some plastic parts feel cheap
What matters most
Fuel Type
Pellet grills offer convenience and consistent temperature control, while charcoal gravity-fed models provide superior smoke flavor. Consider how much time you want to spend managing fuel versus the flavor profile you prefer.
Temperature Range
For true combination use, look for a grill that can reach at least 500°F for searing and hold 225°F for smoking. Some models go up to 700°F, which is great for steaks.
Cooking Area
Think about how many people you typically cook for. A larger area (800+ sq in) is great for parties, but if you mostly cook for 2-4, a compact model might suffice and save space.
Build Quality and Warranty
Look for thick steel, porcelain-coated grates, and a good warranty (3-5 years minimum). These grills live outdoors, so rust resistance is crucial.
Ease of Use
Digital controllers, WiFi connectivity, and meat probes make temperature management effortless. If you're a beginner, these features can significantly improve your results.
Our take
The best combination grill smoker for you depends on your priority: if you want set-and-forget convenience with good smoke, go with a pellet model like the Traeger Ironwood; if you crave authentic charcoal flavor and high-heat searing, a gravity-fed charcoal unit like the Char-Griller Gravity 980 is the way to go.
Frequently asked
A combination grill smoker is a single unit designed to both grill at high temperatures (for searing steaks, burgers, etc.) and smoke at low temperatures (for slow-cooking meats like brisket and ribs). They typically use pellets or charcoal with a gravity-fed hopper to automate fuel delivery, allowing you to switch between modes easily.
Yes, many modern pellet grills can reach 500°F to 600°F, which is hot enough for a good sear. However, they may not get as hot as a dedicated gas or charcoal grill. For the best sear, look for models with a sear plate or direct-flame grates. Gravity-fed charcoal models can reach 700°F for excellent searing.
Absolutely, if you want both grilling and smoking capabilities without buying two separate units. They save space and money, and modern models perform admirably in both roles. The trade-off is that they may not excel as much as dedicated grills or smokers, but for most home cooks, the convenience outweighs the compromise.
Cleaning depends on the fuel type. For pellet grills, regularly vacuum the ash from the fire pot and clean the grease tray. For gravity-fed charcoal grills, empty the ash pan after each use and scrape the grates. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging sensors or controllers.
Pellet grills use compressed wood pellets that are automatically fed into a fire pot, offering precise temperature control and convenience. Gravity-fed charcoal grills use a hopper that feeds charcoal and wood chunks by gravity, with a fan controlling airflow. Charcoal models deliver a more traditional smoke flavor and higher max temperatures, but require more real-world fuel management.
Update log
- Jun 19, 2026 — Refreshed picks and rankings.
- Mar 27, 2026 — Initial guide published.
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