Which smoker is best?
There’s nothing quite like the richly infused flavor of smoked meats, fish, and even vegetables and cheeses. Today’s smokers can be highly versatile, and several manufacturers include grill areas, so you’ve got a great family all-rounder.
We’ve been looking at the latest models so we can help you pick the right one for how you like to cook and eat. There are models that are compact enough for the smallest yard and for day-to-day dining or larger ones that have enough capacity for serious parties. Our updated shortlist spotlights one of our long-standing favorites as well as two affordable newcomers from reputable brands.
Best smokers
- Weber’s 22-inch Smokey Mountain Charcoal Smoker: Returning to the top spot, this versatile, high-quality, family-size smoker is one of the best names in outdoor cooking.
- Char-Broil’s The Big Easy Gas-Fired Smoker: Smoke, roast, or grill in the same easy-to-use unit, and at a very competitive price, too. This is a new addition to our list.
- Dyna-Glo’s Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker: A new entry on our list, this model is a great choice for those who want plenty of smoking space, plus a handy grill, in an affordable package.
Jump to the end for more information on each one.
What to know before you buy a smoker
A smoker can be an affordable addition to existing outdoor cooking, with models starting at around $120. At the other end of the scale, it’s possible to pay $500 and more.
There are two main questions that will define your best smoker. First, do you just want smoked food, or do you want the ability to grill as well? Second, do you want traditional charcoal, the ease of gas, or the precise control offered by electricity?
The cheapest dedicated smokers are either a steel box or barrel design (vertical or horizontal). Apart from maybe keeping an eye on fuel and temperature, you get them fired up and leave them alone. Ideally, they should have a side box or tray so you can add fuel without disturbing the smoking chamber.
They are either charcoal or electric (the latter has a heating element for the wood chips). Charcoal and wood offer that traditional flavor everyone loves. Electric smokers provide precise thermostatic control and may also include timers. More expensive models also have glass doors, so you can see what’s going on. You’ll probably get more consistent smoking with an electric model, though some argue you don’t get that authentic taste.
Smokers with grill
If you want a smoker plus grill, your choice will be charcoal or gas. There are two basic layouts: the popular kettle type, which you use as either a smoker or grill and larger models that have a smoker and separate grill on the side. One of the critical factors here is capacity — how many square inches of cooking space you have — and how it’s divided. Grill areas are often smaller than they might be if you were buying a grill on its own.
What to look for in a quality smoker
Controllability is important with smoking. You don’t want it to get too hot and cook too quickly, or it won’t infuse the flavor properly, so an external temperature gauge is a must. Some have a convenient “smoking zone” marked on them. Remember, these tell you the heat inside the smoker — not whether the meat is actually cooked (you need a hand-held meat thermometer for that).
Build quality is always a consideration, and it’s frequently why two models that look very similar are different prices. It’s worth checking owner feedback for reports of rusting. Cleanup is something else to think about. Stainless steel racks are best, though chrome-plated ones are cheaper. You’ll also want to think about grease management. A cover is a good idea (whether you’re keeping it outdoors or not). Some include one, but many do not.
Smokers FAQ
Do I need to season my smoker before use?
A. It’s usually recommended. Residues from the production process, such as paint and packaging smells, may taint your food. Your owner’s manual should give instructions, but spraying or wiping the interior with vegetable oil (canola is popular) and heating for 30 to 45 minutes is a common solution.
What kind of wood should I use in my smoker?
A. There are lots of different flavors. Hickory, oak, and pecan are popular, and it’s great fun to experiment. Always buy from a reputable source, specifically for smoking. Be careful — some wood smoke is actually toxic. Never use scrap; you don’t know what chemicals it might have been treated with.
What smokers are best to buy?
Top smoker
Weber’s 22-inch Smokey Mountain Charcoal Smoker
What you’ll love: It is very well-made, with 726 square inches of smoking and grilling space. It’s designed for optimum smoking temperature with an easy-to-use damper that offers control without losing smoke. It also includes a cover.
What you should consider: It comes at a premium price.
Top smoker for the money
Char-Broil’s The Big Easy Gas-Fired Smoker
What you’ll love: It’s got easy gas lighting with a reliable, controllable fuel supply. It uses TRU-infrared technology, so you can smoke, roast, or grill. It’s got a 21-pound meat capacity and a 180-square-inch grill. A removable grease tray helps with cleanup.
What you should consider: It’s difficult to control the heat, and the build quality is inconsistent.
Worth checking out
Dyna-Glo’s Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker
What you’ll love: Five racks give over 1,300 square inches of smoker space, plus it has a separate grill. Its heavy-duty construction makes it super durable. It’s also got a convenient side access for charcoal/wood. The temperature gauge shows the “smoke zone” for easy monitoring.
What you should consider: It’s heavy and requires plenty of space.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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