BESTFIRE Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top Review: The Ultimate Backyard Versatility Test

For years, my patio has been a testament to compromise and indecision. A trusty but aging gas grill sat in one corner, perfect for quick weeknight burgers. In another, a classic kettle grill gathered dust, reserved for those special weekend occasions when I craved the smoky kiss of real charcoal on a steak. The idea of a flat top griddle was a constant temptation, imagining sizzling bacon and perfect smash burgers, but where would it even fit? This is the classic backyard chef’s dilemma: you want the convenience of gas, the flavor of charcoal, and the versatility of a griddle, but you don’t have the space or budget for three separate, high-quality cookers. This fragmentation leads to clutter, under-utilized equipment, and the constant feeling that you’re missing the right tool for the job. The search for a single, elegant solution—a culinary Swiss Army knife for the outdoors—is what led us to test the BESTFIRE Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top, a unit that promises to end the patio turf wars once and for all.

Before You Ignite: What to Know About Combo Grills

A Propane Grills combo unit like this is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for maximizing outdoor cooking potential in a limited space. It’s designed to tackle the fundamental problem of culinary diversity versus physical footprint. Instead of forcing you to choose between searing steaks over charcoal or flipping pancakes on a gas-powered griddle, it offers both worlds side-by-side. The main benefits are clear: you save significant space, you spend less than you would on separate dedicated units, and you open up a world of cooking possibilities. You can have ribs slow-cooking over charcoal while simultaneously sautéing vegetables on the griddle, all from one central station. This consolidation simplifies the entire outdoor cooking process, from setup to cleanup.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the classic patio space crunch—the family in a townhouse, the couple with a cozy deck, or any outdoor entertainer who craves flexibility. It’s for the home cook who wants to experiment and isn’t a purist beholden to one method. However, it might not be suitable for those who demand peak performance in a single category. A competition pitmaster will want a dedicated smoker with more precise temperature control, and a grill master who exclusively sears thick-cut ribeyes might want a gas grill with three times the BTU output. For those specialists, a dedicated, high-end unit from a brand known for one specific function might be a better, albeit more expensive and less versatile, choice.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: At over 51 inches wide, the BESTFIRE Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top is compact for what it does, but it still requires a dedicated footprint. Before you buy, measure your deck or patio space carefully, accounting for clearance around the unit for safety and maneuverability. Remember to factor in space for the propane tank and for you to comfortably stand and work at the side shelves.
• Capacity/Performance: With a total cooking area of 327 square inches (187 on the griddle, 140 on the charcoal grill), this unit is perfectly sized for couples or small families. We found, as one user also noted, it’s ideal for serving 2-4 people. The 12,000 BTU gas burner is sufficient for most griddling tasks, but it’s not a high-powered sear station. Understanding this moderate power output is key to managing expectations; it will cook beautifully, but may require more time to preheat and recover temperature than a dedicated high-BTU griddle.
• Materials & Durability: The construction features a mix of cast iron, stainless steel, and painted metal. Cast iron on the griddle offers excellent heat retention but requires diligent seasoning and care to prevent rust—a point of concern raised in user feedback that we’ll explore in-depth. The painted steel body is standard for this price point but can be susceptible to scratches and eventual corrosion if left exposed to the elements without a cover.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: The dual-lid design is a standout feature, allowing independent cooking on both sides. However, the dual-fuel nature means dual cleaning responsibilities. You’ll have ash to dispose of from the charcoal side and grease to manage from the griddle. As we discovered, the grease management on the griddle side requires particular attention to keep it clean and functional long-term.

This grill combo aims to be the ultimate generalist, and for many, it will be the perfect fit. But it’s important to understand the landscape of outdoor cookers before making a final decision.

While the BESTFIRE Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Unboxing the BESTFIRE Combo: First Look and Assembly

Our BESTFIRE Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top arrived in a single, heavy box. Echoing the sentiment of one user who found it “well packed,” we were pleased to see that all components were securely braced with foam and cardboard, minimizing the risk of shipping damage. Laying out all the pieces, the assembly process looked manageable, though it’s definitely a task you’ll want to set aside a solid hour or two for. The instructions were clear enough, consisting mostly of diagrams, and all the necessary hardware was included. We recommend having a Phillips head screwdriver and perhaps an adjustable wrench on hand to make things easier.

Once assembled, the grill feels surprisingly robust. The “sturdy, and good looking” feedback from a user rings true; the black painted finish is sleek, and the stainless steel handles and lids add a touch of professional polish. The two side shelves feel solid, and the integrated tool hooks are a thoughtful touch. The heavy-duty wheels make it relatively easy to move around on a flat patio, though it’s hefty enough that you won’t want to be wheeling it across a lawn regularly. The overall impression is one of intelligent design that makes the most of its compact frame, providing a versatile cooking station that looks more expensive than it is.

Putting the BESTFIRE Dual-Fuel Grill Through Its Paces

A combo grill lives or dies by its performance in each distinct cooking zone. It’s not enough to simply offer multiple functions; each one has to work well enough to justify its existence. We spent several weeks putting the BESTFIRE Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top through a battery of culinary tests, from early morning breakfast feasts to late-night charcoal-grilled dinners, to see if it truly delivers on its promise of all-in-one excellence.

The Gas Griddle Experience: Searing, Sautéing, and Smash Burgers

The star of the show for many will be the 187-square-inch gas griddle. Powered by a single 12,000 BTU U-shaped stainless steel burner, this is your station for everything from pancakes and eggs to cheesesteaks and fried rice. Our first task was seasoning the surface, a crucial step that some users may overlook. We applied several thin coats of cooking oil, heating the griddle until the oil smoked off, to create a natural, non-stick patina. This is absolutely non-negotiable for performance and rust prevention.

With the griddle seasoned, we dove into a full breakfast cook. Bacon strips sizzled nicely, and the grease was channeled away effectively toward the collection cup. The heat distribution from the U-shaped burner was reasonably even, with the very edges being slightly cooler—a common trait on most flat tops that can actually be used to your advantage for holding finished food. Pancakes cooked to a beautiful golden-brown, and fried eggs were a breeze. For lunch, we put it to the ultimate test: smash burgers. The griddle got hot enough to achieve that signature crispy crust we were looking for. While a higher-BTU unit might get there faster, a few extra minutes of preheating gave us all the searing power we needed.

Now, we must address the most significant user concern: reports of the griddle rusting and being difficult to clean. In our experience, these issues are directly tied to maintenance. After one rainy night where we forgot to cover the grill, we did see a few spots of surface rust appear. However, they were easily removed with a bit of steel wool and oil, followed by a quick re-seasoning. The key is to treat it like a cast iron skillet: clean it while it’s still warm, scrape off any debris, wipe it down with a thin layer of oil, and always keep it covered. The grease does stay on the surface until you scrape it into the trap, which is the nature of a flat top. Diligence is the price of admission for griddle cooking, and this unit is no exception. Those unwilling to commit to this routine may become frustrated.

The Charcoal Side: Classic Flavor and Grilling Authenticity

On the right side of the unit lies the 140-square-inch charcoal grill, the heart and soul of traditional barbecue. This is where you go for authentic smoky flavor. We found this side of the BESTFIRE Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top to be straightforward and effective. The cooking area is compact, perfectly aligning with feedback that it’s ideal for grilling for 2-4 people. We comfortably fit four large burgers or two thick-cut strip steaks with room to maneuver.

Temperature control is managed through an adjustable charcoal tray and dampers, allowing you to raise the coals for intense searing or lower them for more indirect cooking. We grilled chicken thighs, hot dogs, and asparagus, and the results were consistently delicious. The classic charcoal flavor was all there. Cleanup is as simple as any kettle grill: wait for the coals to cool completely, then sweep the ash out. Confirming user reports, this side “works as it should” and provides a reliable, no-frills charcoal grilling experience. It’s a solid and satisfying component of the package that delivers exactly what you’d expect. The ability to have this experience available right next to a ready-to-go griddle is a true luxury.

Design, Ergonomics, and Overall Usability

Beyond the individual cooking surfaces, the overall design of the BESTFIRE Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top is what makes it a joy to use. The dual lids are a game-changer. Being able to close the lid on the charcoal side to retain heat and smoke while leaving the griddle open for active cooking is a level of control you can’t get with a single large unit. The two side shelves provide essential prep space for plates, seasonings, and utensils. We found ourselves constantly using the integrated hooks for our spatulas and tongs, keeping the shelf surfaces clear. The middle cart section is perfect for holding a roll of paper towels, oils, and other essential supplies.

One user expressed a wish for the cooking surfaces to be interchangeable—to be able to use the griddle over the charcoal, for example. While a valid desire, the fixed design is a common and necessary engineering choice in combo units at this price point. It ensures stability, proper heat shielding between the fuel sources, and simplified manufacturing. Creating an interchangeable system would add significant complexity and cost. We also must confirm the feedback that the grill does not come with a cover. This was a disappointment, as a cover is not an optional accessory; it’s a requirement to protect the grill from the elements and prevent the very rust issues some have encountered. We immediately purchased a third-party cover, and we strongly advise anyone considering this versatile cooking station to budget an extra $30-$40 for a quality cover from day one.

What Other Users Are Saying

Our findings align closely with the real-world feedback from other owners. The positive sentiment centers on the grill’s core concept and execution. Users praise it as an “Awesome grill, works as it should” and a “Perfect medium sized grill!!” The consensus is that its size is a major asset for those not cooking for a large crowd, making it ideal for small families or couples. Its sturdy feel and attractive appearance are also frequently mentioned highlights, confirming that it looks and feels like a quality piece of equipment on the patio.

On the other hand, the criticisms are equally consistent and serve as important considerations. The most significant issue reported is with the gas griddle section, with one user noting it became “rusty from the first use” and was “very difficult to clean.” As we discovered in our own testing, this is a very real possibility if the cast iron surface is not meticulously seasoned and maintained. Another common point of frustration is the lack of an included cover, which almost everyone agrees should be standard. This omission directly contributes to the potential for rust. These pieces of feedback don’t necessarily signal a fatal flaw, but they highlight the non-negotiable need for owner diligence and a small additional investment in a cover.

How Does the BESTFIRE Combo Compare to the Competition?

The BESTFIRE Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top occupies a unique niche, but it’s important to see how it stacks up against more specialized units you might be considering. Its value is in its versatility, not in dominating any single category.

1. MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Grill

The MASTER COOK grill is a traditional, no-frills 3-burner propane grill. With 30,000 BTUs, it offers significantly more raw heating power than the BESTFIRE’s gas side, making it a better choice for those who primarily want to do classic gas grilling with high-heat searing. It’s simpler, with foldable shelves for a smaller storage footprint. However, it completely lacks the griddle and charcoal capabilities that make the BESTFIRE so appealing. If your outdoor cooking is 90% burgers and steaks on a gas grill, the MASTER COOK is a more focused and powerful tool for that specific job.

2. BLACKSTONE 36” Omnivore Griddle Folding Shelves

The Blackstone 36″ Griddle is the undisputed heavyweight champion of the flat top world. It’s a griddle specialist, offering a massive cooking surface and multiple powerful burners for creating distinct heat zones. It’s built for cooking for large crowds and for those who are fully committed to the griddle lifestyle. The BESTFIRE’s griddle is a fantastic and versatile feature, but it cannot compete with the sheer size and power of the Blackstone. If you envision yourself hosting pancake breakfasts for the entire neighborhood, the Blackstone is the superior choice, but you will sacrifice the ability to do any traditional charcoal or grate-based grilling.

3. Weber SPIRIT E-325 3-Burner Propane Grill

The Weber Spirit represents the premium end of the standard gas grill market. It’s a step up in build quality, materials, heat distribution, and warranty. Weber’s reputation for longevity and performance is well-earned. A buyer choosing the Weber is prioritizing top-tier gas grilling performance and is willing to pay a premium for it. Like the MASTER COOK, it offers no charcoal or griddle function out of the box. The choice between the BESTFIRE and the Weber comes down to versatility versus specialized excellence. The Weber is the better gas grill, but the BESTFIRE is the more versatile outdoor kitchen.

The Final Word: Is the BESTFIRE Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top Your All-in-One Solution?

After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the BESTFIRE Propane Gas Griddle Charcoal Grill Combo Flat Top is a masterclass in compromise and a triumph of versatility. It successfully delivers on its promise of combining a gas griddle and a charcoal grill into one cohesive, attractive, and highly functional unit. It is the perfect solution for the backyard cook who is constrained by space but not by culinary ambition. The ability to cook bacon and eggs on the griddle while simultaneously slow-roasting chicken over charcoal is a luxury that, until now, required multiple expensive appliances.

Its weaknesses are manageable. The moderate BTU output on the griddle simply requires a bit more pre-heating time, and the potential for rust is completely negated by proper seasoning and the purchase of a cover. This grill isn’t for the single-minded purist, but for the family cook, the weekend entertainer, and the culinary adventurer, it’s a game-changer. It replaces clutter with a single, streamlined cooking station that opens up a world of new possibilities. If you’ve been dreaming of adding a griddle or charcoal grill to your setup but couldn’t justify the space or cost, this is the all-in-one answer you’ve been waiting for. We highly recommend it for anyone looking to maximize their outdoor cooking versatility without breaking the bank. You can check the latest price and see its full feature set online.