Charcoal smokers appeal to those who love the smoky flavor of barbecued food. The primary fuel in these tools is charcoal, that is used to smoke a multitude of foods like meat, fish and vegetables. Depending on which type of wood chips are utilized, the flavor created can be influenced. Charcoal smokers, available in a variety of sizes and designs, stretch from the small, portable ones capable of holding one rack of meat to those that are big enough to accommodate multiple racks of meat.
After researching and testing a number of models, we have come up with the best charcoal smokers available today. If you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a newbie, our recommendations will give you the help you need to find the perfect charcoal smoker for you.
1. Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker
The Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker is one of the best Charcoal Smokers that we recommend for its quality, performance as well as durability.
The Dyna Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker proves to be an extremely versatile and reliable smoker that is capable of smoking all forms of food. Its smoke stack has an adjustable flue for extra flavor and temperature control, and the smoke stack also houses the pre-installed hi-temp rope seal which retains heat and smoke for better cooking efficiency. Take the guesswork out of smoking with the built in stainless steel thermometer and 'Smoke Zone' indicator.
The natural rise of the heat in the vertical smoker makes it more efficient and produces better smoke flavor. This provides slow cooking; it keeps direct heat off the food and has an even distribution of heat and smoke. The smoker also provides cooking versatility through pre-installed sausage hooks and removable chrome plated rib racks.
Overall, the Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker – DGO1890BDC-D is worth the investment for any griller seeking to elevate their game. With its sturdy construction and ample cooking space, it’s a great choice for serious grillers.
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2. Realcook Vertical 17 Inch Steel Charcoal Smoker
The Realcook Vertical 17 Inch Steel Charcoal Smoker is a very affordable and versatile charcoal smoker.
The porcelain-enameled water pan and charcoal pan are stable for use and the build in thermometer and adjustable air supply allow easy temperature control. The heat resistant bakelite handles make transport, basting, and cooking easy.
However, with 453 square inches of cooking space in the interior and each crossbar having hangers inside the lid, we’ve been able to smoke all shapes and sizes of meat. The smoker is dual purpose and can be used for cold or hot smoking as well as grilling, steaming, baking, braising and roasting.
The assembly process was labour intensive, but we assembled it without any major problems. It, however, could have been a bit more specific in the instructions. We could also see that the smoker is not totally sealed, so there are cracks in the doors where smoke could leak out. Additionally, it can take some time for the smoker to reach the proper temperature.
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3. Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover
If you are searching for a versatile charcoal smoker with ample cooking space, then the Royal Gourmet CC1830SC is a good choice.
The Royal Gourmet CC1830SC offset smoker is fixed onto the grill, which helps keep good circulation of heat and smoke, for great taste. The side door is easily open to add charcoal and remove ashes and the thermometer gauge on the lid assures you with great confidence as to the cooking temperature.
The 2 level height adjustable charcoal pan provides more efficient heat control and holds 4.4 lbs. of coal so you can adjust to cooking temperature needs. The front and side tables provide ample space to hold seasonings and grilling tools, while the bottom shelf provides extra storage space for accessories.
Overall, the Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover is a great charcoal smoker that is versatile and spacious. Assembly is a bit labor intensive, but comes with an adjustable charcoal pan and large workspace, making it a perfect choice for everything from smoking to grilling.
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4. Royal Gourmet CC1830M Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
If you are searching for a grill that can be used for all of your cooking methods, then the Royal Gourmet CC1830M Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker is what you want. The total cooking surface measures 811 sq. in. comprised of 443 sq. in. porcelain enameled steel wire cooking grates, 184 sq. in. chrome plated steel wire warming rack, and 184 sq. in. offset smoker, which allows you to cook large cuts of meat with falling off the bone tenderness.
We had the space to cook large cuts of meat to falling-off-the-bone tenderness and with the offset smoker it allowed us to smoke good and authentic smoky flavors in the main chamber. 2 level height adjustable charcoal pan offered improved heat control and lid mounted thermometer gauge assisted in monitoring for heat fluctuations and kept our hands away from the fire.
In conclusion, if you are keen on smoking enthusiasts that will bring their dreams to reality on the grill, we highly recommend the Royal Gourmet CC1830M Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker.
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5. Royal Gourmet CC2036F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker Burch BBQ Barrel Grill and Smoker Combo
Royal Gourmet CC2036F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker is a great choice if you are looking for a large charcoal smoker with huge cooking space.
Our guests were able to fit comfortably in the cooking space, and with the adjustable charcoal pan, we were able to control the heat and cook the food the way we wanted. A nice feature was that the side charcoal door allowed you to tend the charcoal without having to remove the entire grate.
Although, it was quite heavy and bulky to carry around. The assembly directions didn't seem to be well thought out and took us longer than we would like to assemble everything. We also noticed some rust form on the charcoal pan after a few uses, but that was disappointing.
If you are searching for a big charcoal smoker with plenty of cooking space, a adjustable charcoal pan, along with side charcoal door, then the Royal Gourmet CC2036F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker is definitely a good choice. Be prepared for the unit’s weight, assembly, and potential rust issues, but they are otherwise quite solid.
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6. Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill
The Dyna-Glo Signature Series Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill is the perfect choice if you are looking for a versatile smoker and grill.
The Dyna-Glo Signature Series Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill had five chrome plated cooking grates and a total cooking space of 1382 square inches, all of which impressed us. Perfect for smoking a pork shoulder low and slow or for grilling up burgers for the crew. If you want more cooking options, just use the offset for grilling sides or foods requiring varying temperatures.
Smoker and offset cooking grates allow maximum heat transfer and searing; the professional grade stainless steel temperature gauge displays ‘Grill Zone’ and ‘Smoke Zone’ indicators for cooking at the perfect cooking temperature. The cool touch spring lid grip makes it safer to reach in for food.
But holes can be sealed with heat tape, which the smoker has. How to regulate the heat is something you get used to first, I guess. It might take a few hours to assemble.
Overall, we recommend the Dyna Glo Signature Series Heavy Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill to anyone who is ready to take your backyard cooking game up a notch.
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7. Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker
This is also a good option if you are looking for a versatile charcoal smoker, the Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30″ BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker.
Using the Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30″ BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker was easy and the temperature always remained consistent during the cooking period. The adjustable charcoal pan was a great feature that we could adjust the heat and cook our food to our liking.
The downside is that the metal is thin and maybe not as durable as other models. Also, the inside paint started to chip off after the first use, which was sad. But the lid mounted thermometer gauge allowed us to see and monitor the cooking temperature, which was a plus.
All in all, if you are seeking a well-rounded charcoal smoker that is easy to use and yields admirable results, the Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30″ BBQ Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker is a solid option.
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8. Sophia & William Heavy-Duty Charcoal Smoker Grills
If you are searching for a great charcoal smoker for a large group, then Sophia & William Heavy-Duty Charcoal Smoker Grills could be your answer.
We decided to use Sophia & William Heavy Duty Charcoal Smoker Grills to cook for a large family gathering, and these grills worked like a charm. The big cooking area let us make enough food for everyone and the one piece smoker chamber made controlling the temperature simple. Being made from heavy duty steel it was durable and stable despite the strong winds. The assembly time was rather long and the moisture made the thermometer hard to read. Finally, we would recommend this product for those who want to cook for a big group of people.
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9. HUMOS Outdoor Vertical Charcoal Smoker 3 in 1: Oven + Smoker + Grill (18 inch)
The HUMOS Outdoor Vertical Charcoal Smoker is a good option if you are looking for a versatile charcoal smoker that can also be used as an oven and a grill.
This smoker can handle it all – whether you are in the mood for smoked ribs, grilled vegetables or baked potatoes. The air flow system in the HUMOS smoker is one of the standout features which ensures that your food is cooked evenly and thoroughly. We also liked the two stainless steel racks which were quite spacious to store our food.
Although the door was a bit difficult to open when the smoker was hot, we solved the problem by replacing the rivets with stainless steel screws. We also discovered that the bottom clamps are somewhat weak and can be bent over, especially as they are towards the end of the optimal lifespan.
In conclusion, we fully recommend the HUMOS Outdoor Vertical Charcoal Smoker to those searching for a reliable and versatile smoker.
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Buying Guide
When searching for the perfect charcoal smoker, there are certain elements that should be taken into consideration to ensure you’ll get the most out of the product you purchase. Here, we’re going to discuss some crucial points to remember while shopping for a charcoal smoker.
Cooking Space
The cooking space is one of the most important things when selecting a charcoal smoker. Total area available for cooking food is the cooking space. The number of people you plan on cooking for determines the size of the cooking space you need. If you cook for a large number of people often, you will need a smoker with a bigger cooking space.
Material
Another important aspect to consider is the material of the smoker. Steel and ceramic are the most commonly used materials for charcoal smokers. Ceramic smokers, on the other hand, are heavier and more expensive, but they tend to retain heat better than steel smokers. While ceramic smokers are more expensive, they are much better at retaining heat and keep your cooking temperature consistent.
Temperature Control
Another important factor to consider is temperature control. Find one that lets you control the temperature easily. Some smokers even have built in temperature gauges, while other’s you have to buy a separate thermometer. They also include some smokers with adjustable vents to control the airflow and temperature.
Portability
Portability is a must if you plan on taking your smoker with you to tailgate parties or camping trips. You will look for a smoker that is lightweight and easy to transport. There are some smoking wheels that make them easier to move around.
Accessories
Lastly, take a look at what comes with the smoker itself, such as accessories. Some smokers come with extra racks, hooks, or grates that make it easier to cook different kinds of food. Some smokers even have covers or carrying cases to keep the smoker safe while being stored or transported.
All in all, visit the cooking space, material, temperature control, portability and other accessories when searching for the best charcoal smoker. If you remember these two factors, you will be able to locate a smoker that suits your requirements and cook yummy smoky meats and vegetable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some top-rated vertical charcoal smokers?
Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker, Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker, and Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker are some of the best vertical charcoal smokers available. Among these smokers, they are known for their durability, ease of use and also produce delicious smoked meats.
How does the Masterbuilt Charcoal Smoker compare to other brands?
If you are looking for a high quality smoker, but don't want to spend a lot of money, then the Masterbuild charcoal smoker is perfect. The Masterbuilt smoker has been known to be one of the sturdiest smokers on the market while also being very easy to use.
What makes the Weber Charcoal smoker stand out?
Weber Charcoal smoker is the most popular smoker among the barbecue urbanites for various reasons. One of the features that separates the Weber smoker from the rest is its ability to maintain precise temperature inside. The Weber smoker is also known for its durable construction and its ample cooking capacity.
Can you provide some tips on how to use a charcoal smoker?
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using a charcoal smoker so you get the best results. The first step is to use good quality charcoal and wood chips. In addition, be sure to monitor the temperature closely and adjust the vents accordingly to keep the temperature consistent. Finally, let your meat cook and absorb the smoky flavor and be patient.
What are some advantages of using a digital charcoal smoker?
There are several benefits of digital charcoal smokers over traditional charcoal smokers. One of the main benefits is that they offer precise temperature control, useful for beginners. Additionally, digital smokers also come with built in timers and other features such making it easy and convenient for the smoker to perform the process.
What are the benefits of having a charcoal grill and smoker combo?
Charcoal grill and smoker combo can be a great investment for those who love to cook outdoors. A combo unit provides the benefits of grilling and smoking in one convenient package. For example, a combo unit will save space and some money over buying separate grilling and smoking gear.
