Best Pellet Grills with Side Burner in 2026: 2 Picks Ranked by Specs
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You need reliable best pellet grills with side burner options that balance capacity and utility. The Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y Dual Fuel Grill leads this list because its 1,020 square inches of cooking space accommodates large meals efficiently. We compared 2 models strictly by their published specifications. This approach removes guesswork and focuses on measurable features like weight and dimensions. Our rankings highlight which units offer the most practical side burner integration for your outdoor kitchen. Use these specs to decide which grill fits your available space and cooking style.
Compare cooking area and weight
Check the square inches of cooking space and total weight. The Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y offers 1,020 square inches and weighs 87.1 pounds. The Char-Griller Texas Trio is extra large and weighs 202 pounds. Choose the smaller unit for easier mobility. Select the larger model if you have ample space for simultaneous grilling and smoking.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y Dual Fuel Grill Best overall | Dual-fuel cooking and side burner prep | |
| 2 | Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Best extra large | large capacity smoking and grilling |
The best fit for you
- You want dual-fuel flexibility and a side burner – Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y Dual Fuel Grill – This charcoal grill includes an offset smoker and side burner for versatile outdoor cooking.
- You need the largest capacity for big crowds – Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill – This extra large model features a 75.6-inch width and charcoal fuel for high-volume grilling.
- You prefer a compact offset smoker with side burner – Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y Dual Fuel Grill – Its 23-inch length and 87.1-pound weight make it more portable than the extra large option.
Is a Side Burner Worth the Space?
A side burner lets you prepare sauces or boil water while your main grill cooks. The Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y and Char-Griller Texas Trio both include this feature. You can simmer marinades or keep sides warm without occupying the main cooking grate. This adds utility for complex meals. However, it requires extra counter space and a propane connection. If your cooking style relies on simple grilling, this component may be unnecessary clutter.
Worth it if
- You often prepare side dishes or sauces while grilling.
- You have adequate counter space next to your grill.
- You want to keep multiple food items at different temperatures simultaneously.
Skip it if
- You primarily cook simple meals that do not require side preparation.
- Your outdoor area has limited space for additional components.
- You prefer a minimalist setup with fewer parts to clean.
Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y Dual Fuel Grill
Best for: Dual-fuel cooking and side burner prep
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Side Burner
- Cooking Area
- 1,020 sq in
- Fuel
- Charcoal
- Use
- Grilling, Smoker
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 23 × 67.7 × 46.2 inches
The Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y is a dual-fuel grill combining gas and charcoal cooking. It offers 1,020 square inches of total cooking space, including a 197 square inch offset smoker. The unit features a 10,000 BTU side burner for auxiliary tasks. With 34,000 BTUs of total heat output and a height-adjustable charcoal pan, it suits cooks who want versatile fuel options and ample capacity for large gatherings.
- 1,020 square inches of total cooking area
- 10,000 BTU dedicated side burner
- 197 square inch offset smoker
- Dual-fuel gas and charcoal operation
- 87.1 pounds weight requires sturdy support
- 67.7 inches width needs ample deck space
- You need a side burner for prep work
- You want to use both gas and charcoal
- You cook for groups of four or more
- You have limited patio width
- You prefer lightweight portable grills
- You only use one fuel type
Verdict: Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y 1020 Sq. In. Combo Grill fits outdoor chefs who value dual-fuel flexibility and a dedicated side burner for sauce preparation. Its large capacity and offset smoker make it ideal for feeding crowds.
Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill
Best for: large capacity smoking and grilling
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Side Burner
- Cooking Area
- 1390 sq in
- Fuel
- Charcoal
- Use
- Grilling, Smoker
- Color
- Black
- Size
- Extra Large
This extra-large grill combines gas and charcoal cooking with a side burner and offset smoker. It offers 1390 square inches of total cooking space and 40,800 BTUs on the main grates. The included side firebox allows for traditional Texas-style smoking. You get dual temperature gauges and an electronic ignition. Its substantial 202-pound frame provides stability for large cooks.
- 1390 sq.in. total cooking space
- 40,800 BTU gas output
- Includes side firebox for smoking
- Push-button electronic ignition
- Dual temperature gauges
- Heavy 202-pound build requires sturdy support
- Large 75.6-inch width needs ample patio space
- 32-inch length extends significantly into your yard
- You need extra large capacity for big gatherings
- You want to smoke meats using an offset firebox
- You prefer gas convenience with charcoal flavor options
- You have limited patio space for wide grills
- You cannot support a 202-pound structure
- You only need a small portable grill
Verdict: Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner fits large families who want to smoke and grill simultaneously. It suits those with ample outdoor space for its wide footprint.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y Dual Fuel Grill | Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 1,020 sq in | 1390 sq in |
| Fuel | Charcoal | Charcoal |
| Smoker Style | Offset | – |
| Features | Offset Smoker, Side Burner | Offset Smoker, Side Burner |
| Use | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Size | 1,020 Sq. In. | Extra Large |
| Shape | – | Square |
| Dimensions | 23 × 67.7 × 46.2 inches | 32 × 75.6 × 49.1 inches |
| Weight | 87.1 pounds | 202 pounds |
| Model | ZH3006Y | 3070 |
How we selected these grills
We identified each grill by checking its Amazon listing for the Side Burner feature in the title or feature list. We only included products that explicitly stated this capability. We kept just one size or variant per product family to avoid duplication. All details come from the published specifications and feature lists on those listings. We did not handle any products physically.
We ordered the picks by availability first. Next, we ranked them by the listing's overall rating weighted by the number of ratings. Finally, we considered how many of our specific criteria the specs met. This method ensures you see the most relevant options first. The page shows live prices and stock status, which are refreshed daily.
How to Choose the Right Pellet Grill with Side Burner
Check Cooking Area Size
You must verify the square inches of cooking space before buying. The Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y provides 1,020 square inches for large batches. This capacity suits families who cook for crowds. Larger areas allow more flexibility for different food types. You should measure your available outdoor space against the grill footprint. Ensure the cooking surface meets your typical meal volume needs. Bigger grills hold more food but require more room.
Evaluate Total Weight
Weight determines how difficult the grill is to move. The Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y weighs 87.1 pounds. This makes it manageable for most users. The Char-Griller Texas Trio weighs 202 pounds. This heavy unit stays stationary once placed. You should consider if you need to relocate the grill. Heavier grills offer stability but lack mobility. Lighter units are easier to store or transport.
Review Physical Dimensions
Measure the width, height, and length to fit your patio. The Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y is 67.7 inches wide. It stands 46.2 inches tall. The Char-Griller Texas Trio is 75.6 inches wide. It reaches 49.1 inches in height. You must ensure these dimensions clear your outdoor area. Check for overhead obstructions like decks or trees. Proper sizing prevents installation issues and ensures safe operation.
Confirm Smoker Style
An offset smoker style adds smoke flavor to your food. Both listed grills feature an offset smoker design. This setup separates the firebox from the cooking chamber. It allows for indirect heat and true smoking. You should prefer this style if you enjoy smoked meats. The design impacts how heat circulates around your food. It is a key factor for authentic barbecue results.
Verify Side Burner Presence
A side burner lets you cook sides while grilling. Both the Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y and Char-Griller Texas Trio include this feature. You can boil water or simmer sauces simultaneously. This saves time and keeps your main grill free. You should check that the burner is accessible and safe. It adds versatility to your outdoor cooking routine. Ensure the burner is sturdy and fits your cookware.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y a true pellet grill?
No, it is a dual-fuel charcoal grill. The data lists its fuel source as charcoal, not pellets. It combines a main grilling area with an offset smoker and a side burner. You get charcoal cooking flexibility with a dedicated side burner for prep work. It does not use wood pellets for fuel.
How much cooking space does the top pick offer?
The Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y provides 1,020 square inches of cooking space. This large capacity fits large meals and feeds crowds efficiently. The Char-Griller Texas Trio is labeled extra large but does not list specific square inches. You should check the 1,020 sq in figure for precise capacity planning.
Does the Char-Griller Texas Trio have a side burner?
Yes, the Char-Griller Texas Trio includes a side burner. Its feature list explicitly states it has an offset smoker and side burner. This allows you to prepare sauces or boil water while grilling. It is an extra large model suitable for those with ample outdoor space.
Which grill is lighter and easier to move?
The Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y is lighter at 87.1 pounds. The Char-Griller Texas Trio weighs 202 pounds. You will find the Royal Gourmet easier to relocate if you have limited space. The heavier Char-Griller model requires a permanent spot due to its significant weight and wide footprint.
What is the width of the extra large model?
The Char-Griller Texas Trio has a width of 75.6 inches. This wide footprint suits large families who want to smoke and grill simultaneously. You need ample outdoor space to accommodate this size. The Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y is narrower at 67.7 inches wide.
Can I use the side burner while smoking?
Yes, both models allow simultaneous use of the side burner. The Royal Gourmet ZH3006Y and Char-Griller Texas Trio both feature side burners. You can simmer marinades or keep sides warm without occupying the main grill. This setup supports versatile outdoor cooking for complex meals.
See also
Prices and specifications on this page are read from the Amazon product listing and can change at any time. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback. Nobody at this site handled or measured these products.
