Char-Griller Char-Griller® Dual-Function 2-Burner 24 or Char-Griller Competition Pro Offset Smoker? Which Char-Griller Model to Buy
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This char griller char griller dual function 2 burner 24 vs competition pro comparison helps you choose between two distinct cooking styles. Both units offer substantial cooking space and are built for outdoor use. The primary difference lies in their fuel sources and design. One model combines propane gas and charcoal for versatile, direct heat control. The other is a dedicated barrel-style offset smoker designed for low-and-slow barbecue techniques. Your choice depends on whether you prefer quick grilling sessions or traditional smoking methods.
Key differences
| Aspect | Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill | Char-Griller Competition Pro Offset Smoker |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane gas and charcoal | Charcoal (offset smoker) |
| Total Cooking Area | 870 sq. in. | 1012 sq. in. |
| Heat Output | 24,000 BTU | Not listed |
| Form Factor | Dual-function grill with side burner | Barrel with side fire box |
| Weight | 116 pounds | 151 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill if
- You want the convenience of propane ignition alongside charcoal flavor options.
- You need precise temperature zones for searing steaks and slow-roasting simultaneously.
- You prefer a lighter unit that is easier to move around your patio.
Choose Char-Griller Competition Pro Offset Smoker if
- You prioritize authentic Texas-style offset smoking for low-and-slow barbecue.
- You want the largest total cooking area available in this comparison.
- You are looking for heavy-duty steel construction designed specifically for smoking.
Verdict: The Dual-Function 2-Burner is better for cooks who want flexibility and quick heat control. The Competition Pro Offset Smoker suits those dedicated to traditional barbecue techniques and maximum capacity.
Gas Combo vs Offset Smoker
Fuel versatility
The Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill uses both propane gas and charcoal. You get two stainless steel main burners for gas cooking and a charcoal section for smoking. This setup offers precise temperature control zones. The Competition Pro Offset Smoker relies solely on wood or charcoal fuel. It uses an offset firebox for indirect heat. You cannot use propane on the Competition Pro. If you want the convenience of instant gas ignition and the flavor of charcoal, the Dual-Fuel model is the clear choice. The Competition Pro is strictly for traditional smokers.
Cooking capacity
The Competition Pro offers 1012 square inches of total cooking area. This includes 719 square inches of primary cooking space. The Char-Griller Dual-Fuel model provides 870 square inches of total cooking space. It features two separate burners to manage heat zones effectively. The Competition Pro has about 142 more square inches of space. This extra room is useful for cooking large quantities of food simultaneously. The Dual-Fuel grill is still spacious enough for most families. However, if maximum capacity is your top priority, the Competition Pro wins by a small margin.
Build material
The Competition Pro is built with heavy-duty steel construction. It features a powder coating finish and premium expanded metal cooking grates. This design is typical for durable offset smokers. The Char-Griller Dual-Fuel model does not list its specific steel gauge or grate material in the provided data. It does mention stainless steel main burners for the gas side. Without specific data on the charcoal side's material, we cannot fully compare the build quality. The Competition Pro explicitly highlights its heavy-duty steel, suggesting robustness. The Dual-Fuel grill relies on stainless steel for its heat sources.
Dimensions and footprint
The Competition Pro is larger in every dimension. It measures 66 inches in length, 33 inches in width, and 52 inches in height. It weighs 151 pounds. The Char-Griller Dual-Fuel model is more compact. It measures 53.9 inches in length, 26.2 inches in width, and 46.9 inches in height. It weighs 116 pounds. The Dual-Fuel grill takes up less patio space. It is also significantly lighter. If you have limited outdoor space or need to move the unit occasionally, the Dual-Fuel model is easier to handle. The Competition Pro requires a larger, stable area.
Ignition and controls
The Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill features electronic ignition. You can fire up the gas burners with the push of a button. It also has dual temperature gauges to monitor each side. The Competition Pro Offset Smoker does not list electronic ignition or digital gauges in the data. Traditional offset smokers often require manual lighting. The Dual-Fuel model offers more modern convenience features for quick starts and monitoring. The Competition Pro relies on manual control of the firebox. If you prefer easy ignition and clear temperature reading, the Dual-Fuel model is superior.
Which Char-Griller Model Fits Your Cooking
You want fast grilling and smoking
This dual-fuel unit offers 24,000 BTU propane power for quick searing. You get electronic ignition for easy starts. The 870 sq. in. area includes two stainless steel burners for precise zone control. It also features a charcoal section for smoke flavor. The EasyDump ash pan simplifies cleanup. You save time with side shelves and utensil hooks for prep.
You prefer traditional offset smoking
The Competition Pro is a dedicated barrel-style offset smoker. It provides 1,012 sq. in. of total cooking space. The primary area holds 719 sq. in. You get heavy-duty steel construction for durability. Premium expanded metal grates ensure even heat distribution. This model lacks gas convenience but excels at authentic Texas-style low and slow cooking with its side fire box design.
You need maximum cooking capacity
If you cook for large groups, this barrel smoker offers 1,012 sq. in. of total space. That is more than the 870 sq. in. available on the dual-fuel grill. The larger footprint supports bigger batches of meat. You get heavy-duty steel build quality throughout. The offset design allows for consistent heat management across a wide surface area for large roasts or briskets.
The products compared
Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill
Best for: Versatile gas and charcoal grilling
- Fuel Type
- Propane gas and charcoal
- Cooking Area
- 870 sq. in.
- Heat Output
- 24,000 BTU
- Burner Count
- 2
- Compatible Appliance
- Smoker
- Dimensions
- 53.9 × 26.2 × 46.9 inches
View on Amazon: Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill Affiliate link
This Char-Griller model combines propane gas and charcoal in one unit. It features two stainless steel burners delivering 24,000 BTU for high heat. You get 870 square inches of total cooking space. The design includes dual temperature gauges and an EasyDump ash pan. It suits those who want gas convenience with charcoal flavor without buying two separate appliances.
Pros
- Dual fuel system allows use of propane gas and charcoal.
- Two burners provide 24,000 BTU heat output.
- 870 sq. in. total cooking area.
- Electronic ignition for easy startup.
Cons
- Weighs 116 pounds, making it heavy to move.
- Lacks an offset smoker chamber for true low-and-slow smoking.
- No remote control or smart connectivity features.
Good fit if
- You want to switch between gas and charcoal cooking.
- You need high BTU output for searing steaks.
- You have space for a large, heavy grill.
Skip if
- You prefer traditional offset smoking for brisket.
- You need a compact grill for small patios.
- You want precise temperature control for low-and-slow cooking.
Verdict: Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill is a versatile option for cooks who want gas convenience and charcoal flavor. It fits those who prioritize high heat and easy cleanup over dedicated smoking capabilities.
Char-Griller Competition Pro Offset Smoker
Best for: Large capacity traditional offset smoking
- Cooking Area
- 1012 sq. in.
- Primary Material
- Heavy Duty Steel
- Features
- Offset Smoker
- Style
- Barrel
- Size
- Large
- Dimensions
- 66 × 33 × 52 inches
View on Amazon: Char-Griller Competition Pro Offset Smoker Affiliate link
This barrel-style smoker offers 1,012 square inches of total cooking space, with 719 square inches on the primary grate. It features heavy-duty steel construction and a powder-coated finish. The unit includes a side fire box for Texas-style offset smoking. At 151 pounds, it is a large, stationary appliance designed for dedicated outdoor cooking.
Pros
- 1,012 square inches of total cooking area
- 719 square inches of primary cooking space
- Heavy duty steel construction
- Includes side fire box for offset smoking
Cons
- Weighs 151 pounds, making it difficult to move
- Dimensions are large (66 by 52 by 33 inches)
- No temperature gauge listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You want dedicated Texas-style offset smoking capability
- You need ample space for large cuts of meat
- You prefer heavy steel construction over thin metal
Skip if
- You have limited outdoor space for a large unit
- You need a portable grill for tailgating
- You prefer propane or gas convenience over charcoal
Verdict: Char-Griller Competition Pro Offset Smoker is a robust choice for smokers who prioritize capacity and traditional offset design. It suits those with the space and strength to manage a heavy, stationary unit.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill | Char-Griller Competition Pro Offset Smoker |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Propane gas and charcoal | not stated |
| Cooking Area | 870 sq. in. | 1012 sq. in. |
| Heat Output | 24,000 BTU | not stated |
| Burner Count | 2 | not stated |
| Primary Material | not stated | Heavy Duty Steel |
| Features | not stated | Offset Smoker |
| Style | not stated | Barrel |
| Compatible Appliance | Smoker | Smoker |
| Size | not stated | Large |
| Dimensions | 53.9 × 26.2 × 46.9 inches | 66 × 33 × 52 inches |
| Weight | 116 pounds | 151 pounds |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | E5030 | 2823 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Grill better for quick weeknight dinners?
Yes, if you need speed. The Dual-Fuel model uses propane gas with electronic ignition for fast starts. It provides 24,000 BTU of power for quick searing. This makes it ideal for cooks who prioritize convenience and rapid heating over traditional smoking methods.
Which unit offers more total cooking space?
The Competition Pro Offset Smoker provides larger capacity. It is designed for large capacity traditional offset smoking. The Dual-Fuel grill offers 870 square inches of area. The Competition Pro is a large barrel-style unit suited for those who need maximum space for big batches.
Can I use charcoal on the Dual-Fuel grill?
Yes, it supports multiple fuel types. The Dual-Fuel Grill uses both propane gas and charcoal. It includes a dedicated charcoal section for smoking. You get precise temperature control zones using the two stainless steel burners for gas cooking alongside the charcoal option.
Which smoker is heavier and harder to move?
The Competition Pro is significantly heavier. It weighs 151 pounds and measures 66 inches in length. The Dual-Fuel Grill weighs 116 pounds. The Competition Pro is a stationary unit best for those with the strength to manage its substantial weight and size.
Does the Dual-Fuel Grill have a smoker attachment?
It is compatible with smoker functions. The Dual-Fuel Grill is listed as compatible with a smoker. It includes a charcoal section for smoking capabilities. This setup allows you to achieve charcoal flavor while maintaining the convenience of gas ignition for your primary cooking needs.
What are the dimensions of the Competition Pro?
The Competition Pro is a large unit. It measures 66 inches in length, 33 inches in width, and 52 inches in height. Its large barrel style and substantial footprint make it suitable for fixed outdoor locations rather than portable cooking setups.