Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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You are looking for char griller char griller texas trio 3 burner alternatives because the original model offers a unique hybrid setup. The Char-Griller Texas Trio combines gas ignition with a charcoal side firebox, providing 1,390 square inches of cooking space and 40,800 BTUs of gas heat. This large, 202-pound unit suits those who want offset smoking flexibility without sacrificing the ease of push-button ignition. However, its substantial size and dual-fuel complexity may not fit every outdoor kitchen or cooking style.
This list compares 6 similar picks chosen because their specifications overlap with the original. Some options focus strictly on charcoal offset smoking, like the Sophia & William 941 sq. in. model, which offers traditional airflow control without gas components. Others provide compact kettle designs for smaller spaces, such as the 22-inch Char-Griller Steel Kettle. You might also find repair kits for digital charcoal smokers if your current unit needs maintenance rather than replacement. Each alternative addresses specific needs, from manual temperature management to space constraints, while sharing core smoking capabilities with the Texas Trio.
Our top pick: Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill.
How Each Alternative Compares
COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Switch Kit
This option is not a grill but a replacement switch kit for Masterbuilt Gravity Series smokers. It weighs just 1.45 ounces and targets users repairing digital charcoal lid-detection failures. Unlike the Texas Trio, it offers no cooking surface or heat output. It is a precise component for restoring functionality to existing Masterbuilt units. If you need to fix a specific digital smoker rather than buy a new cooking device, this kit provides the necessary hardware. It does not provide the large capacity or hybrid fuel flexibility of the Texas Trio. It is strictly a repair part for a different brand's digital ecosystem.
Char-Griller 22-Inch Steel Kettle Charcoal Smoker
The Char-Griller 22-inch Kettle is a compact charcoal smoker weighing 22.3 pounds, significantly lighter than the 202-pound Texas Trio. It measures 26 by 23 by 38 inches, offering a much smaller footprint for users with limited space. It lacks gas ignition and the offset side firebox, relying entirely on manual charcoal control. This model is ideal for those who prioritize precise airflow management and easy cleanup over large capacity. It provides traditional charcoal flavor without the complexity of a hybrid system. If you do not need the 1,390 square inches of cooking space or the convenience of push-button ignition, this kettle offers a focused, portable charcoal smoking experience.
Sophia & William 941 sq. in. Offset Charcoal Smoker
The Sophia & William 941 sq. in. Offset Smoker provides a dedicated charcoal cooking area in a 61 by 29.5 by 52.2 inch frame. It weighs 123 pounds, making it lighter than the Texas Trio but still substantial for outdoor use. It lacks gas burners and digital ignition, relying on traditional charcoal smoking methods. This unit offers ample space for large gatherings but sacrifices the versatility of having both gas and charcoal options. It is best for users who value sturdy construction and capacity over digital convenience. If you prefer managing airflow manually and want a dedicated offset smoker without the weight of a hybrid grill, this model provides a robust alternative for serious smoking sessions.
Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker
The Char-Griller Smokin Pro is an extra-large offset smoker measuring 60 by 30 by 52 inches and weighing 115 pounds. It uses charcoal exclusively, lacking the gas burners and electronic ignition found in the Texas Trio. This model focuses on traditional smoking with a warming rack, providing large capacity for those willing to manage heat manually. It is lighter than the Texas Trio but offers less total cooking space. It is ideal for buyers who prioritize charcoal flavor and do not need the flexibility of gas ignition. If you want a dedicated offset smoker for traditional methods without the complexity of a hybrid system, this unit offers a solid, focused approach to large-batch smoking.
Sophia & William 17-Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker
The Sophia & William 17-inch Vertical Smoker is a compact unit measuring 21.7 by 11.5 by 31.5 inches and weighing 23.3 pounds. It uses charcoal and offers manual control for small batch smoking. It lacks the large cooking area and gas ignition of the Texas Trio, making it suitable for users with limited space or who smoke small quantities of meat. This vertical design provides steady heat management in a small footprint. It is a practical choice for those who do not need the 1,390 square inches of space or the versatility of a hybrid grill. If you value portability and manual control over large capacity and digital convenience, this vertical smoker is a focused alternative.
COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Fan and Switch Kit
This item is a replacement fan and switch kit for Masterbuilt Gravity Series smokers, not a complete grill. It targets owners of Models 560, 800, and 1050 who need to repair airflow or safety switch failures. It weighs very little and offers no cooking surface or heat output. Unlike the Texas Trio, it is a targeted repair solution for maintaining an existing digital charcoal smoker. It does not provide the hybrid fuel flexibility or large cooking capacity of the Texas Trio. It is strictly for users who want to fix specific components in their Masterbuilt unit rather than purchase a new cooking device. It fits a niche repair need within a different brand's digital ecosystem.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill
Best for: large family BBQs and offset smoking
- Cooking Area
- 1,390 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Gas and Charcoal
- Form Factor
- Offset
- Features
- Side Burner
- Compatible Appliance
- Smoker
- Dimensions
- 32 × 75.6 × 49.1 inches
View on Amazon: Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Affiliate link
This Char-Griller Texas Trio combines gas and charcoal cooking in an offset design. It offers 1,390 square inches of total cooking space across three main burners and a side firebox. The unit delivers 40,800 BTUs on the gas side and 12,000 BTUs on the side burner. Electronic ignition and dual temperature gauges help manage heat. It suits cooks who want versatile outdoor cooking options with ample room for large meals.
Pros
- 1,390 sq. in. total cooking area
- 40,800 BTU gas output plus 12,000 BTU side burner
- Includes side firebox for offset smoking
- Electronic push-button ignition system
- EasyDump ash pan for quick cleanup
Cons
- Heavy 202-pound build requires sturdy support
- Large 75.6-inch width needs significant patio space
- No digital temperature control or remote monitoring
Good fit if
- You need ample space for large gatherings
- You want to switch between gas and charcoal easily
- You prefer traditional offset smoking methods
Skip if
- You have limited outdoor space
- You prefer lightweight, portable grills
- You want precise digital temperature control
Verdict: Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner Offset Grill is a robust choice for cooks who value high heat output and large capacity. It fits those who want the flexibility of gas ignition with the flavor of charcoal smoking.
COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Switch Kit
Best for: Masterbuilt Gravity Series lid switch repair
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Compatible Appliance
- Smoker
- Control Type
- Digital
- Weight
- 1.45 ounces
View on Amazon: COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Switch Kit Affiliate link
This is a replacement Hopper Lid/Door Switch Kit for Masterbuilt Gravity Series charcoal grills. It includes one switch, one wire, and two mounting screws. The part is CE/ETL approved and rated for 250V AC at 50/60Hz. It weighs 1.45 ounces. It fits models like the MB20040220 and MB20041020. It does not fit the Char-Griller Gravity Fed 980. You need this if your digital controller fails to detect the lid position.
Pros
- Compatible with Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, and 1050 models
- CE/ETL approved for safe operation
- Rated for 250V AC, 2A current
- Includes all necessary mounting screws and wire
Cons
- Incompatible with Char-Griller Gravity Fed 980
- Sells as a single switch set only
- Requires manual installation by the user
Good fit if
- You own a Masterbuilt Gravity Series charcoal grill
- Your grill's digital controller fails to recognize the hopper lid
- You need a direct replacement for part number 9904190041
Skip if
- You have a Char-Griller Gravity Fed 980 grill
- You are looking for a complete new grill
- You need a fan or power adapter kit
Verdict: COMVIEe Switch Kit for Masterbuilt Gravity is a precise replacement part for specific Masterbuilt digital charcoal grills. It fits users who need to restore lid-detection functionality to their smoker without buying a new unit.
Char-Griller 22-Inch Steel Kettle Charcoal Smoker
Best for: compact charcoal kettle smoking
- Cooking Area
- 363 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Form Factor
- Kettle
- Control Type
- Adjustable top and bottom dampers
- Material
- Steel
- Compatible Appliance
- Smoker
View on Amazon: Char-Griller 22-Inch Steel Kettle Charcoal Smoker Affiliate link
This 22-inch kettle grill offers 363 square inches of cooking space. It uses charcoal fuel and features a steel body with a porcelain-coated lid for heat retention. Adjustable top and bottom dampers allow you to control airflow and temperature precisely. The unit includes an EasyDump ash pan and bucket for easier cleanup. It is a compact, durable option for backyard smokers.
Pros
- 22-inch kettle design with porcelain-coated steel body
- 363 sq. in. cooking area
- Adjustable top and bottom air dampers
- Removable EasyDump ash pan and bucket
Cons
- Smaller 363 sq. in. cooking area compared to larger grills
- No side firebox or offset smoker attachment included
- Manual temperature control via dampers only
Good fit if
- You want a dedicated charcoal kettle smoker
- You need adjustable airflow for temperature control
- You prefer easy ash cleanup with removable pans
Skip if
- You require a large cooking area over 500 sq. in.
- You prefer gas or pellet fuel systems
- You want a built-in side firebox for offset smoking
Verdict: Char-Griller 22-inch Kettle Charcoal Grill is a compact, manual-control smoker for those who value precise airflow management and easy cleanup in a smaller footprint. It fits users who prioritize charcoal flavor and don't need the extra space of a larger grill or the convenience of an offset side firebox.
Sophia & William 941 sq. in. Offset Charcoal Smoker
Best for: large gatherings and traditional charcoal smoking
- Cooking Area
- 941 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Form Factor
- Barrel Offset
- Material
- Steel
- Placement
- Outdoor
- Application
- Backyard
View on Amazon: Sophia & William 941 sq. in. Offset Charcoal Smoker Affiliate link
This offset charcoal smoker offers 941 square inches of total cooking area, split between 551 square inches of main grates and a 192 square inch side firebox. It is built from heavy-duty steel and weighs 123 pounds, ensuring stability in wind. The one-piece smoker chamber helps maintain consistent temperature control. This unit suits large gatherings of 10 to 15 people who prefer traditional charcoal smoking over gas or electric options.
Pros
- 941 square inches total cooking area for large parties
- One-piece smoker chamber for better heat retention
- Heavy-duty steel construction resists wind
- Porcelain-enameled iron grates for even cooking
Cons
- Manual temperature control requires monitoring
- Heavy 123-pound weight limits portability
- Large footprint requires significant outdoor space
Good fit if
- You need to feed 10 to 15 people at once
- You want a durable, heavy-duty steel build
- You prefer traditional charcoal smoking methods
Skip if
- You need digital temperature control features
- You require a compact grill for small patios
- You prefer gas or electric fuel types
Verdict: Sophia & William 941 sq. in. Offset Charcoal Grill provides ample space and sturdy construction for serious smokers, making it a solid choice for those who value capacity and durability over digital convenience.
Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker
Best for: Traditional charcoal offset smoking
- Cooking Area
- 1,130 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Form Factor
- Barrel, Offset
- Control Type
- Dual damper controls
- Material
- Steel
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Warming Rack
View on Amazon: Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker Affiliate link
This Char-Griller unit combines a charcoal barrel grill with an offset smoker. It offers 1,130 square inches of cooking area and 30 square inches of warming rack space. Dual damper controls let you manage airflow precisely. The steel build weighs 115 pounds and measures 60 inches wide. You get a side shelf with hooks for prep space. It suits those who want traditional Texas-style smoking.
Pros
- 1,130 sq. in. primary cooking area
- Offset fire box for authentic smoke flavor
- Dual damper controls for precise airflow
- Side shelf with utensil hooks
Cons
- Heavy 115-pound steel construction
- Requires manual charcoal management
- No digital temperature display
Good fit if
- You want authentic offset smoking results
- You need ample cooking space for large cuts
- You prefer manual airflow control
Skip if
- You need a gas grill
- You want a lightweight portable unit
- You prefer electric pellet smokers
Verdict: The Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker fits buyers who prioritize traditional charcoal smoking and large capacity. It is a solid choice for those willing to manage airflow manually.
Sophia & William 17-Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker
Best for: small batch smoking and manual control
- Cooking Area
- 427 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Form Factor
- Vertical
- Control Type
- Air vents
- Placement
- Outdoor
- Application
- Camping
View on Amazon: Sophia & William 17-Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker Affiliate link
This vertical charcoal smoker combines smoking and grilling in a single unit. It offers 427 square inches of cooking space across two tiers. The tunnel ventilation system allows you to manage airflow and temperature using air vents. A lid thermometer shows the internal heat. The porcelain-enameled bowl holds water for moisture. It weighs 23.3 pounds and measures 31.5 inches tall, making it a compact option for outdoor cooking.
Pros
- Two-tier cooking grate provides 427 square inches of space
- Tunnel ventilation system ensures even heat distribution
- Porcelain-enameled bowl holds water for added moisture
- Integrated lid thermometer displays internal temperature
Cons
- Small 427 square inch cooking area limits batch size
- Manual air vent control requires constant attention
- No digital temperature readout or remote monitoring
Good fit if
- You need a compact vertical smoker for small batches
- You prefer manual control over airflow and smoke
- You want a portable unit that holds a water pan
Skip if
- You require large capacity for big gatherings
- You want digital temperature control or app connectivity
- You prefer gas or pellet fuel for convenience
Verdict: Sophia & William 17" Vertical Charcoal Smoker fits users who value compact size and manual control. It is a practical choice for smoking small quantities of meat with steady heat management.
COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Fan and Switch Kit
Best for: repairing Masterbuilt Gravity charcoal smokers
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Control Type
- Digitally-controlled fan
- Compatible Appliance
- Smoker
View on Amazon: COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Fan and Switch Kit Affiliate link
This COMVIEE kit replaces the fan, switches, and wires for Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, and 1050 charcoal grills. It includes a high-temperature ABS fan for precise airflow control and three CE-certified safety switches rated at AC 250V/2A. The set provides all necessary mounting hardware and wires. It is designed for users needing to restore digital combustion efficiency and safety interlocks on their charcoal smokers.
Pros
- Digitally-controlled fan improves combustion efficiency
- Three CE-certified safety switches prevent operation when doors are open
- High-temperature-resistant ABS plastic fan housing
- Includes all mounting screws and specific wire types
Cons
- Only one-year warranty coverage
- Not a complete grill or smoker unit
- Requires manual installation of electrical components
Good fit if
- You need to replace a faulty fan in a Masterbuilt Gravity smoker
- You require new safety switches for hopper lid or door controls
- You want to restore precise digital temperature regulation
Skip if
- You are looking for a complete charcoal grill
- You need a replacement for a non-Masterbuilt brand smoker
- You prefer a gas or pellet fuel system
Verdict: COMVIEE Replacement Kit for Masterbuilt Gravity is a targeted repair solution for owners of Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, and 1050 models who need to fix airflow or safety switch failures. It fits users who want to maintain their existing charcoal smoker rather than buying a new one.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill | COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Switch Kit | Char-Griller 22-Inch Steel Kettle Charcoal Smoker | Sophia & William 941 sq. in. Offset Charcoal Smoker | Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker | Sophia & William 17-Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker | COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Fan and Switch Kit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 1,390 sq. in. | not stated | 363 sq. in. | 941 sq. in. | 1,130 sq. in. | 427 sq. in. | not stated |
| Fuel Type | Gas and Charcoal | not stated | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal |
| Form Factor | Offset | not stated | Kettle | Barrel Offset | Barrel, Offset | Vertical | not stated |
| Control Type | not stated | not stated | Adjustable top and bottom dampers | not stated | Dual damper controls | Air vents | Digitally-controlled fan |
| Material | not stated | not stated | Steel | Steel | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Placement | not stated | not stated | not stated | Outdoor | not stated | Outdoor | not stated |
| Application | not stated | not stated | not stated | Backyard | not stated | Camping | not stated |
| Features | Side Burner | not stated | not stated | Offset Smoker | Offset Smoker, Warming Rack | not stated | not stated |
| Style | not stated | not stated | Kettle | Barrel | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Compatible Appliance | Smoker | Smoker | Smoker | Smoker | Smoker | Smoker | Smoker |
| Dimensions | 32 × 75.6 × 49.1 inches | not stated | 23 × 26 × 38 inches | 61 × 29.5 × 52.2 inches | 30 × 60 × 52 inches | 11.5 × 21.7 × 31.5 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 202 pounds | 1.45 ounces | 22.3 pounds | 123 pounds | 115 pounds | 23.3 pounds | not stated |
| Size | Extra Large | not stated | 22" | 941 SQ.IN. Cooking Area | Extra Large | 17-Inch Grill & Smoker | not stated |
| Color | Black | MB-1 set Switch | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Model | 3070 | not stated | CG30040725 | not stated | CG30044223 | DE11103 | 9904190040 |
For tighter spaces and mobile installations, you can evaluate recpro RV 3 burner gas range alternatives by their dimensions.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a cheaper option than the Texas Trio for charcoal smoking?
The COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Switch Kit is the best budget pick at just 1.45 ounces. It is a precise replacement part for specific Masterbuilt digital charcoal grills. It helps restore lid-detection functionality without buying a new unit. It does not provide cooking space or heat output like a grill.
What is the best kettle-style alternative to the Texas Trio?
The Char-Griller 22-Inch Steel Kettle Charcoal Smoker is the best kettle option. It offers a compact footprint for those who value precise airflow management. The manual control design prioritizes charcoal flavor. It lacks the extra space of a larger grill or the convenience of an offset side firebox found in the Texas Trio.
Which alternative offers the most cooking capacity for large gatherings?
The Sophia & William 941 sq. in. Offset Charcoal Smoker provides ample space for large gatherings. It features sturdy construction for serious smokers who value capacity over digital convenience. It weighs 123 pounds and offers a traditional charcoal smoking experience without the hybrid gas ignition of the Texas Trio.
Is there a traditional offset smoker alternative to the Texas Trio?
The Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker is the best offset smoker choice. It fits buyers who prioritize traditional charcoal smoking and large capacity. It requires manual airflow management. It is an Extra Large steel model that weighs 115 pounds, offering a warming rack and dedicated firebox for smoke generation.
What is a good compact alternative for small batch smoking?
The Sophia & William 17-Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker is an also-great pick for small batches. It fits users who value compact size and manual control. It weighs 23.3 pounds and provides steady heat management for smoking small quantities of meat. It is a practical choice for limited outdoor spaces.
Can I repair my Masterbuilt Gravity smoker instead of buying a grill?
The COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Fan and Switch Kit is an also-great repair solution. It targets owners of Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, and 1050 models. It fixes airflow or safety switch failures. It allows you to maintain your existing charcoal smoker rather than purchasing a new unit or alternative grill.
Does the Texas Trio hybrid setup have a direct competitor in this list?
The Char-Griller Texas Trio itself is the best overall pick for that hybrid setup. It combines gas ignition with a charcoal side firebox. It offers 1,390 square inches of cooking space and 40,800 BTUs. Other alternatives focus on pure charcoal, digital repair, or specific styles like kettle or vertical smokers.