Best Verticle Smokers: Top Picks for Delicious Smoked Meats in 2024

Vertical smokers are a popular choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want to take their smoking game to the next level. These smokers are designed to provide a consistent temperature and smoke flow, making it easier to smoke meat, fish, and vegetables to perfection. Vertical smokers come in a variety of sizes and styles, but they all have one thing in common: they offer a large cooking space that can accommodate a wide range of foods.

When it comes to choosing the best vertical smoker, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First and foremost, you'll want to consider the size of the smoker and how much food you'll be smoking at once. If you're cooking for a large group or smoking larger cuts of meat, you'll want to choose a smoker with a larger cooking space. You'll also want to consider the type of fuel the smoker uses, whether it's wood, charcoal, or propane.

Another important factor to consider is the construction of the smoker. Look for a smoker that is built with high-quality materials that will stand up to years of use. You'll also want to consider the features included with the smoker, such as temperature control, built-in thermometers, and adjustable racks.

In this guide, we'll take a look at some of the best vertical smokers on the market and help you choose the right one for your needs. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner looking to up your smoking game, we've got you covered.

Best Vertical Smokers

If you're a barbecue enthusiast, you know that smoking meat is a time-honored tradition that requires a lot of patience and the right equipment. A vertical smoker is a great option for those who want to smoke meat in their backyard. These smokers are designed to cook meat slowly and evenly, infusing it with smoky flavor that can't be replicated by any other cooking method. In this article, we've rounded up the best vertical smokers on the market to help you find the perfect one for your needs.

Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker

If you're looking for a reliable electric smoker that can help you achieve juicy and flavorful meats, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker might be the one for you.

Pros

• The digital control board allows you to easily set your desired smoking temperature and time up to 275°F.
• The patented side wood chip loader lets you add wood-fired smoked flavors without opening the smoker door, ensuring optimal smoke flow and enhanced low and slow cooked dishes.
• The spacious vertical design fits up to 7 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 pork butts, or 4 racks of ribs, making it perfect for large families or gatherings.

Cons

• The smoker might not be as durable as other models, as some users have reported issues with the heating element burning out after a few years of use.
• The cleaning process can be messy, especially with trapped smoking.
• The temperature might not be as accurate as some users would like, although using a thermocouple can help verify the temperature.

The Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker is a great option for those who want to achieve delicious smoked meats without the hassle of constant monitoring. The digital control board and side wood chip loader make it easy to use, while the spacious design allows you to smoke large quantities of food. However, some users have reported issues with durability and cleaning, so keep that in mind before making your purchase.

Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill

If you're looking for a versatile smoker and grill combo, the Dyna-Glo Signature Series Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill could be the perfect fit for you.

Pros

• With five chrome-plated cooking grates and a total cooking space of 1382 square inches, this smoker and grill combo offers ample space for cooking a variety of foods.
• The heavy-gauge steel body construction ensures durability and longevity.
• The cool-touch spring lid grip provides safer access to food, while the oversized steel wheels make it easy to move the smoker and grill around as needed.

Cons

• Assembly can be time-consuming, so be prepared to set aside some time to put it together.
• Temperature control can be challenging, so you may need to experiment a bit to get the hang of it.
• While the smoker and offset cooking grates allow for maximum heat transfer and searing, some users have reported that the smoker doesn't always maintain a consistent temperature.

If you're looking for a versatile smoker and grill combo that offers ample cooking space and durability, the Dyna-Glo Signature Series Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill could be a great choice. With its heavy-gauge steel body construction, cool-touch spring lid grip, and oversized steel wheels, this smoker and grill combo is designed to provide a high-quality cooking experience. However, keep in mind that assembly can be time-consuming and temperature control may be challenging at first. Overall, if you're willing to put in the effort to learn how to use it effectively, this smoker and grill combo could be a great addition to your backyard cooking setup.

Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker

If you're looking for a versatile smoker that can handle a variety of foods, the Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker might be just what you need.

Pros

• With six height-adjustable cooking grates and 1,890 square inches of total cooking space, this smoker can accommodate a variety of food sizes and quantities.
• The offset design keeps direct heat away from the food, allowing for slow cooking and even distribution of heat and smoke.
• The built-in stainless steel thermometer and adjustable smoke stack flue give you greater control over the temperature and smoke levels, allowing you to achieve perfectly smoked foods.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the smoker leaks smoke, which can affect the cooking efficiency and flavor.
• The assembly process can be time-consuming and require some technical know-how.
• The smoker is quite heavy and bulky, which can make it difficult to move around or store.

Overall, the Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile and reliable smoker. Just be prepared to invest some time and effort into assembly and make sure to use it in a well-ventilated area to avoid any smoke leakage issues.

Cuisinart COS-116 Vertical Charcoal Smoker

If you're looking for a reliable and easy-to-use vertical smoker, the Cuisinart COS-116 is an excellent option to consider.

Pros

• With two 16" stainless steel racks, this smoker provides 402 square inches of cooking space, which is enough to accommodate a variety of foods.
• The porcelain enamel water bowl helps to keep the temperature consistent and adds moisture to the food.
• The top and bottom vents provide a dual air vent system, which makes it easy to control the temperature and smoke levels.

Cons

• The latching base is not as sturdy as it could be, which may cause some stability issues.
• The temperature gauge is not very accurate, so you may need to use a separate thermometer to monitor the temperature.
• The vertically hinged door can be a bit difficult to open and close, especially if you have large hands.

Overall, the Cuisinart COS-116 is a great choice for anyone who wants a simple and reliable vertical smoker. It's easy to set up and use, and it provides enough cooking space to handle a variety of foods. Just be aware of the minor issues with the latching base, temperature gauge, and door.

Original Bradley Smoker BS611 4-Rack Natural Draft Vertical Electric Smoker

If you're looking for a smoker that is easy to use and can cook for a large group, the Original Bradley Smoker BS611 is a great option.

Pros

• The large cooking space allows you to cook for a party of 8 or more.
• The insulated double-wall construction makes this electric smoker 10 times more efficient than leading smokers when filled with Bradley Smokers bisquettes.
• The smokebox allows you to enjoy up to 9 hours of smoke before needing to refill.

Cons

• Some users have reported issues with the door seal.
• The smoker is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around.
• The temperature control can be a bit finicky.

The Original Bradley Smoker BS611 is a great option for those who want to enjoy delicious smoked foods without spending hours tending to a live fire. The large cooking space allows you to cook for a party of 8 or more, and the insulated double-wall construction makes this electric smoker 10 times more efficient than leading smokers when filled with Bradley Smokers bisquettes. Additionally, the smokebox allows you to enjoy up to 9 hours of smoke before needing to refill.

However, some users have reported issues with the door seal, which can affect the smoker's temperature control. Additionally, the smoker is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around. Finally, the temperature control can be a bit finicky, which may require some trial and error to get the perfect smoke. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and efficient electric smoker, the Original Bradley Smoker BS611 is definitely worth considering.

SUNLIFER 20.5 Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker and Grill Combo

If you're looking for a versatile smoker that can also be used as a fire pit, a small charcoal grill, or a BBQ grill, the SUNLIFER 20.5 Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker and Grill Combo is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The smoker offers multiple cooking options, including smoking, grilling, steaming, baking, braising, and roasting.
• With a large cooking area of 646 square inches, you can easily smoke or grill meat or vegetables at a time.
• The two access doors provide flexibility when checking the status of food or adding charcoal, wood, or pellets.

Cons

• Assembly can take some time, as it requires putting together multiple parts.
• The smoker may not be as durable as some other models on the market.
• The thermometer may not be as accurate as some users would like.

This smoker is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a versatile appliance that can do more than just smoke meat. With its large cooking area and multiple cooking options, you can easily cook up a variety of dishes for your family and friends. The two access doors make it easy to check on your food and add more fuel when needed.

Assembly can be a bit time-consuming, but it's worth it to have a smoker that can do so much. Some users have reported that the smoker may not be as durable as they would like, but this is a common issue with many smokers on the market. Additionally, the thermometer may not be as accurate as some users would prefer, so you may need to invest in a separate thermometer to get the best results.

Overall, the SUNLIFER 20.5 Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker and Grill Combo is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a versatile smoker that can do more than just smoke meat. With its large cooking area, multiple cooking options, and two access doors, it's a great investment for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.

Realcook Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill

If you're looking for a versatile smoker that can also be used as a fire pit, grill, and more, the Realcook Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill may be a good option for you.

Pros

• The latch locking system allows for multi-layered use as a fire pit, adjustable barrel grill, smoker, and more.
• The special bottom vent design and built-in thermometer make it easy to control the temperature and maintain a steady heat.
• The smoker is portable and easy to assemble, making it great for parties, parks, and other outdoor events.

Cons

• The assembly process may take some time and may be confusing for some users.
• The smoker may not hold up well in extreme weather conditions.
• The smoker may not be as durable as some other models on the market.

If you're looking for a versatile smoker that can do it all, the Realcook Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill is definitely worth considering. With its multi-layered design and special bottom vent, you'll be able to smoke, grill, and roast all of your favorite meats to perfection. Plus, the smoker is portable and easy to assemble, making it great for outdoor events and gatherings.

In terms of drawbacks, the assembly process may be a bit time-consuming and confusing for some users. Additionally, the smoker may not hold up well in extreme weather conditions, so you'll want to keep that in mind if you live in an area with harsh winters or frequent rain. Finally, while the smoker is relatively durable, it may not be as sturdy as some other models on the market.

Overall, if you're looking for a versatile and affordable smoker that can do it all, the Realcook Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to spend some time assembling it and be mindful of its limitations in extreme weather conditions.

Traeger Grills Ironwood XL Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker with WiFi and App Connectivity

If you're looking for a versatile grill that can smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ, the Traeger Grills Ironwood XL Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker with WiFi and App Connectivity is a great option. With Smart Combustion technology and fully-insulated construction, you can expect ultra-consistent burn for perfect results every time, with a temperature range of 165 - 500 degrees Fahrenheit. WiFIRE technology lets you monitor and control your grill from anywhere, making it super convenient. The EZ-Clean Grease+Ash Keg collects grease and ash in one place, making cleanup a breeze. The P.A.L. Pop-And-Lock accessory rail lets you customize your cook space, and the EvenFlow heat shield ensures even cooking anywhere on the grill.

Pros

• Ultra-consistent burn for perfect results every time
• WiFIRE technology lets you monitor and control your grill from anywhere
• EZ-Clean Grease+Ash Keg collects grease and ash in one place, making cleanup a breeze

Cons

• Expensive
• Large and heavy, making it difficult to move around
• Some users have reported issues with the WiFIRE technology not connecting properly

If you're looking for a high-quality grill that offers excellent versatility and convenience, the Traeger Grills Ironwood XL Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker with WiFi and App Connectivity is definitely worth considering. With its Smart Combustion technology and fully-insulated construction, you can expect ultra-consistent burn for perfect results every time. The WiFIRE technology lets you monitor and control your grill from anywhere, making it super convenient. Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the EZ-Clean Grease+Ash Keg, and the P.A.L. Pop-And-Lock accessory rail lets you customize your cook space. The EvenFlow heat shield ensures even cooking anywhere on the grill, making this a great option for anyone who loves to cook outdoors.

That being said, this grill is quite expensive, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget. It's also quite large and heavy, which can make it difficult to move around. Finally, some users have reported issues with the WiFIRE technology not connecting properly, so it's important to keep this in mind when making your purchase.

Cuisinart COS-118, Vertical Charcoal Smoker, 18"

If you are looking for an affordable and easy-to-use smoker that can handle a variety of foods, the Cuisinart COS-118 is a great option.

Pros

• With two 18" solid steel cooking grates, this smoker provides ample cooking space for a variety of foods.
• The vertical barrel design makes it easy to maintain a consistent temperature with minimal adjustments.
• The vertically hinged door makes it easy to access the water bowl and charcoal grate.

Cons

• The included temperature gauge is not very accurate, so you may need to invest in a separate thermometer.
• The build quality is not as sturdy as some higher-end models, so it may not last as long with heavy use.
• The charcoal tray can be difficult to remove and clean.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly smoker that is easy to use and can handle a variety of foods, the Cuisinart COS-118 is a great option. With two 18" cooking grates and a vertical barrel design, this smoker provides ample cooking space and easy temperature control. However, the included temperature gauge is not very accurate and the build quality is not as sturdy as some higher-end models. Overall, the Cuisinart COS-118 is a solid choice for beginners or those on a budget who want to try their hand at smoking.

Masterbuilt® 30-inch Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker

If you're looking for a reliable and easy-to-use electric smoker, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Analog Electric Smoker is a great option for you.

Pros

• Achieve competition-ready results in your own backyard without the hassle of charcoal or propane
• Spacious vertical design with 535 cooking square inches that fits up to 3 chickens, 2 turkeys, or 3 racks of ribs
• Removable wood chip tray and water bowl to add rich smoky flavor and optimal moisture to your food

Cons

• Analog controls may require manual adjustments to maintain desired smoking temperature
• Some users have reported issues with the temperature gauge accuracy
• The door seal may require additional sealing to prevent smoke from escaping

This electric smoker is perfect for beginners or those who want an easy and convenient smoking experience. The spacious design allows you to smoke a variety of meats and the removable wood chip tray and water bowl give you the flexibility to experiment with different flavors. However, the analog controls may require some manual adjustments to maintain the desired temperature and the door seal may require additional sealing to prevent smoke from escaping. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and easy-to-use electric smoker, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Analog Electric Smoker is a great choice.

Cuisinart Vertical Propane Smoker

If you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-use smoker, the Cuisinart Vertical Propane Smoker is a great option.

Pros

• With 5.45 square feet of interior space and four removable stainless steel shelves, this smoker provides ample room for smoking a variety of meats and vegetables.
• The built-in thermometer and adjustable gas supply give you total temperature and smoke control, while the seal-tight twist-lock door and handle ensure that smoke stays inside the smoker.
• The porcelain enameled steel tray holds wood and water, making cleanup easy after use.

Cons

• The smoker requires wood chips when grilling, which may be an inconvenience for some users.
• The propane tank is not included with the smoker and must be purchased separately.
• Some users may find the smoker to be too large for their needs.

If you're looking for a smoker that provides plenty of space and control, the Cuisinart Vertical Propane Smoker is a great option. With its spacious interior and four removable shelves, you'll be able to smoke a variety of meats and vegetables. The built-in thermometer and adjustable gas supply give you total temperature and smoke control, while the seal-tight twist-lock door and handle ensure that smoke stays inside the smoker. Cleanup is easy thanks to the porcelain enameled steel tray that holds wood and water. However, keep in mind that the smoker requires wood chips when grilling, and the propane tank is not included with the smoker. Additionally, some users may find the smoker to be too large for their needs.

Char-Broil Vertical Liquid Propane Gas Smoker

If you're looking for a budget-friendly vertical smoker, the Char-Broil propane smoker is worth considering.

Pros

• The propane burner allows for consistent heat, resulting in a better smoking experience.
• The double drawer design allows for easy access to tend water and wood without heat loss in the cooking chamber.
• The smoker has a large cooking surface and ample cooking space, making it suitable for smoking different types of food.

Cons

• The door thermometer is not accurate and may require calibration or replacement.
• The smoker is lightweight and made of thin metal, which may not be as durable as other models.
• The tray that holds both wood chips and water can be messy and difficult to clean.

This Char-Broil smoker has a 3.9 rating out of 5 stars with 235 ratings on Amazon. While it may not be the most durable or feature-rich option on the market, it is a solid choice for those on a budget who want to try smoking their own food at home.

The 595 square inch cooking surface with three chrome-plated cooking grates and 7,566 cubic inches of cooking space provide ample room for smoking different types of food. The warming rack on top of the smoker chamber is a convenient feature for warming sauces or marinades.

The propane burner allows for consistent heat, resulting in a better smoking experience, and the porcelain wood chip and water pan provide additional flavor to the food. The temperature gauge on the smoker helps to monitor the cooking chamber, while the burner itself has a temperature control.

However, the door thermometer is not accurate and may require calibration or replacement. The smoker is also lightweight and made of thin metal, which may not be as durable as other models. The tray that holds both wood chips and water can be messy and difficult to clean.

Overall, the Char-Broil propane smoker is a good choice for beginners or those on a budget who want to experiment with smoking their own food. If you're looking for a more durable or feature-rich option, you may want to consider other models.

Camp Chef XXL Pro Vertical Smoker - Wifi Enabled & Precise Temp Control - Outdoor Cooking Equipment - Grey

If you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-use vertical smoker, the Camp Chef XXL Pro is a great option. With its pellet-powered design and WIFI-enabled controller, this smoker combines the best of both worlds for a great smoking experience.

Pros

• The XXL Pro comes with a wide range of meat racks and hooks, making it easy to smoke all your favorite meats and sausages.
• With its pellet-powered design, the XXL Pro is easy to use and provides consistent, even heat for great smoking results.
• The WIFI-enabled controller lets you monitor your cook from your phone and relax while you cook.

Cons

• The smoker thermometer may not read accurately, so you may need to use a separate thermometer to monitor the temperature.
• Some users have reported issues with the pellet feeder and temperature control, so be sure to keep an eye on your smoker while it's running.
• The smoker is quite heavy and may be difficult to move around, so make sure you have a dedicated spot for it in your backyard.

If you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-use smoker that can handle all your favorite meats and sausages, the Camp Chef XXL Pro is a great option. With its pellet-powered design and WIFI-enabled controller, you can easily set your smoke setting and monitor your cook from your phone. However, be aware that the smoker thermometer may not read accurately and some users have reported issues with the pellet feeder and temperature control. Overall, the XXL Pro is a great smoker for anyone looking for consistent, even heat and a wide range of smoking options.

Buying Guide

When looking to buy the best vertical smoker, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when choosing the right smoker for your needs.

Size

The size of the smoker is an important consideration. You need to ensure that the smoker you choose is large enough to accommodate the amount of food you want to smoke. If you plan to smoke larger cuts of meat, such as brisket or pork shoulder, you will need a larger smoker. Conversely, if you only plan to smoke smaller items like chicken or fish, a smaller smoker may suffice.

Fuel Type

Vertical smokers can be powered by a variety of fuels, including charcoal, propane, and electric. Each fuel type has its advantages and disadvantages. Charcoal smokers provide a traditional smoky flavor but require more attention and maintenance. Propane smokers are easy to use and require less maintenance, but they don't provide the same smoky flavor as charcoal. Electric smokers are the easiest to use and require the least amount of maintenance, but they don't provide the same smoky flavor as charcoal or propane.

Temperature Control

Temperature control is an essential feature to look for in a vertical smoker. The smoker should have a built-in thermometer to monitor the temperature. Some smokers also have digital temperature controls, which allow you to set and maintain a specific temperature. This is especially important if you plan to smoke meat for extended periods.

Material

The material of the smoker is also an important consideration. Smokers can be made from a variety of materials, including stainless steel, cast iron, and ceramic. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, but it doesn't retain heat as well as cast iron or ceramic. Cast iron retains heat well and provides a traditional smoky flavor, but it requires more maintenance. Ceramic smokers are excellent at retaining heat and providing a smoky flavor, but they are the most expensive option.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best vertical smoker for your needs. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced smoker, there is a smoker out there that will meet your needs and help you create delicious smoked meats and vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated vertical smokers according to consumer reports?

According to consumer reports, some of the top-rated vertical smokers include the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker, Pit Boss Austin XL, and Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Smoker. These smokers are highly rated for their durability, temperature control, and overall performance.

Which vertical smoker is best for a beginner?

For beginners, we recommend the Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker. It's easy to use and comes with digital controls that allow you to set the temperature and cooking time. It also has a large cooking area, making it perfect for smoking large cuts of meat.

How does a vertical smoker compare to other types in terms of smoke flavor?

Vertical smokers are designed to provide a consistent temperature and smoke flavor throughout the cooking process. This makes them ideal for smoking meats, fish, and vegetables. Compared to traditional grills, vertical smokers provide a more intense smoke flavor, which can enhance the taste of your food.

Can you recommend a vertical pellet smoker with WiFi capabilities?

Yes, we recommend the Traeger Pro 780 Pellet Grill. It comes with WiFi capabilities, allowing you to monitor and control the temperature from your smartphone. It also has a large cooking area, making it perfect for smoking large cuts of meat.

Is it necessary to flip meat when using a vertical smoker?

No, it's not necessary to flip meat when using a vertical smoker. The design of the smoker ensures that the heat and smoke are evenly distributed throughout the cooking process. Flipping the meat can cause it to lose moisture and flavor.

What are the advantages of using a vertical smoker over a traditional grill?

Vertical smokers provide a more intense smoke flavor, which can enhance the taste of your food. They also have a larger cooking area, making them perfect for smoking large cuts of meat. Additionally, vertical smokers are designed to provide a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process, ensuring that your food is cooked evenly.