The need for smokers these days are increasing by popular demand. This is also one of the reasons why many manufacturers are perfecting their craft in creating the best smoker grill that you could have. But is there such thing as the best? While there are so many products and brand names to choose from, shopping for “the one” can be tricky.
However, this doesn’t have to be the case, in this article we will give you the best tips on how you can find the best smokers and talk about the top 5 best of the best smoker grills for you to choose from.
List of Contents
Why should you BUY a Smoker Grill?
Perhaps the question that lies in our minds is why should we invest in a smoker grill? Why not? The real question in here is that, when was the last you weren’t frustrated with your smoked or grilled meat? Have you ever cooked or smoked meat that you are proud of? If your answers are all negative then it’s time that you invest in a smoker grill, don’t you think?
What is a smoker grill? This is an outdoor (and sometimes indoor) appliance that can keep cooking even at low temperatures for an extended period of time. It can product smoke and holds it so the meat can absorbed the flavor. You can also smoke on a grill but it may not be as effective as having a smoker. That is why you need to have a smoke griller.
Another good reason to get a smoke griller is the results of the smoked meat after it is done. Don’t get me wrong, the meats smoked in other smokers are good but smoker grills can do a better job. They are juicier, tender and smokier compared to others. In short, it has achieved a level of tenderness that is not easily pulled off by your regular smoker. It’s like meat melts off your mouth while the smoky flavor lingers.
What Kind of Smoker Grill Should You Get?
With all the different preferences and designs to choose from, choosing the right kind of smoker is a bit overwhelming. Trust me, once you find the one you like, it would be difficult to stray away from it and so the best thing that you can do is to compare it from other brands.
Now in order to distinguish the best smoker grill for you, we will introduce the top 5 choices we have for you to choose from. We will also add their advantages and disadvantages so you know what to expect from each. Here are the smoker grills in no particular order; check it out!
The Best of the Best Smoker Grill Reviews
#1. Weber 721001 Smokey Mountain Cooker 18-Inch Charcoal Smoker
If you want some authentic smoke house flavor, then the Weber 721001 is the unit you should buy. This 18.5 inches smoker has heavy-duty plated grates and made to be porcelain enameled. It comes with a built-in thermometer with aluminum legs and door.
It also comes with a heavy-duty cover so you know that it’s safe even when you are not using it. Weighing at 39 pounds, this could definitely one of the best smokers you can find. It has a lifetime warranty (which is pretty sweet if you ask me) and is an overall perfect smoking and grilling machine in terms of performance.
Advantages:
- A reliable smoker that is loved by many satisfied customers.
- The built-in thermometer functions well.
- The door is designed to be wider compared to their previous models.
- The cooking space is wide enough for meats to be smoked or grilled.
- It can deliver the best tasting smoky flavored meats.
- It’s made from sturdy materials.
- It comes with a cover, something that is not as common with other smokers.
- Easy to use, clean and store.
Disadvantages:
- Some parts may arrive broken after shipment so make sure that you contact the shipping company and inform them your complaints.
- It’s not as fancy as other modern smokers.
For those who are looking for an exceptional smoker but are limited at a certain budget, the Weber 721001 is the answer to your prayers. You can always find that this smoker works well even after a few uses plus you have a lifetime warranty, what else can you ask for? Not a lot of affordable smokers out there have lifetime warranties so you might as well grab this unit.
#2. Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker
If you want something that is different from your common smoker grill then this is the right one for you. It’s a combination of barbecue; charcoal and smoker grill so you know for certain that this is a versatile unit.
It’s measured with a cooking surface of 290 square inches in the main chamber and about 140 square inches in its cooking surface of the firebox chamber. Its height can also be adjusted and the best part of it is that it’s very easy to clean.
Thanks to the built-in damper that you can use when removing ash. It’s also about 24 pounds in weight so you can be sure that it’s pretty easy to carry or move around.
Advantages:
- It’s a pretty basic smoker grill.
- It’s affordable for those who are just starting in smoking or grilling meats.
- It’s light and mobile.
- Suits your most basic smoking and grilling needs/
Disadvantages:
- It can wear off over a year of use.
- The paint tends to flake or chip away.
For those who are looking for bargains and is on a limited budget but in need of a good smoke grill, this is the product you should look into. It is a good deal for those who can tolerate a few minor flaws but overall, it can deliver you results too.
#3. Nordic Ware 365 Indoor/Outdoor Kettle Smoker
For some people, the size of their smoker matters but with this one, you can say that this small smoker can work like its bigger competition. It’s made for indoor and outdoor use.
This wonderful smoker can transform your everyday food into a delicious meal that you will surely enjoy. It is designed with a high dome cover and measures about 6 7/8 inches by 13 ½ inches in full capacity. It’s strictly made in the USA too so you know for a fact that this smoker can be trusted.
The smoker also comes with thermometer and handles so you can monitor the meat at all times. Plus it only weighs about 6.9 pounds which is lighter compared to other smokers.
Advantages:
- It’s rather small so you can carry it anywhere.
- It can be used indoors.
- It has adjustable vents.
- The smoke control is designed nicely.
- Can be cleaned easily.
Disadvantages:
- It is small.
- It’s only good for small use and not suitable for bigger functions like your backyard parties etc.
If you are looking for a smoker grill that isn’t too shabby or bold then this is the best unit to get. It may be small but can definitely work like a pro!
#4. Masterbuilt 20070910 30-Inch Black Electric Digital Smoker, Top Controller
Speaking of Masterbuilt smokers, their very popular Masterbuilt 20070910 is something you should totally consider getting. For one this company is well-known for their quality smokers and consistent innovation of their products.
This unit has an outer body that is powder-coated steel and comes with four chrome-coated smoking racks that will suit all your smoking and grilling needs. The temperature can be controlled at 100 to 275 degrees F for that perfect smoky meat results. It is also designed with digital control panels with a 24 hour digital timer that you automatically shut off once your food is done.
It is also designed to be safe with side-loading wood tray for you to use. The cooking space of this smoker is about 730 square inches with an 800 watt heating element.
Advantages:
- It has a very convenient control panels that you can use.
- Allows you to cook your food without worrying that it will be burned or under-cooked.
- It’s budget-friendly.
- It can be cleaned easily.
- It’s easy to use especially if you are a first-timer.
- It is well-insulated.
- The cooking space is large enough for heavy meats.
- It can be fueled with wood or used with electricity.
Disadvantages:
- There are few complaints about a few electrical flaws.
- Can die out after a few uses.
Despite a few negative reviews, people are still raving about this product. Mainly because the company is a trusted name and even if their products are basic, it still works like a gem. If you are someone who won’t compromise with the brand name and performance then this is a good unit to purchase.
#5. Bradley Smokers Original Smoker
When it comes to smokers and grillers, Bradley’s brand is also a good choice. It can definitely give you the results you are looking for and more. Usually, the Bradley smokers are designed in sleek black color that many users love.
It comes with stainless steel interiors so that alone can tell you that this is quality smoker. The racks inside this smoker are removable and the temperature controls are designed to give the user consistent temperature and controlled smoke.
If you are looking into slow roasting pork or to use as a slow cooker, this smoker is your go-to. It has a maximum degree temperature of 250 degrees and has a minimum ambient temperature. For the weight, this smoke griller is a bit heavier than the two previous smokers I have mentioned. It weighs at about 50 pounds but you can still move it around when needed.
Advantages:
- It’s safe to use since you don’t have to use electricity.
- The thermometers work well.
- It can also do some cold smoking.
- It’s easy to use and automatic.
- It has easy-to-clean interiors.
- It’s user-friendly.
Disadvantages:
- It has smaller cooking space compared to others.
- Has a tendency to fall apart after a few uses.
- It has been known to catch fire.
This smoker looks and feels like the ones Masterbuilt made but the only difference is that it has smaller cooking space. If you want something like the Masterbuilt smoker but don’t have the budget, this one can do the trick.
What We Recommend
Truth is, wise-shoppers can’t say no to a bargain however, there are pros and cons to that. Bargains are great, they can save you money but it could also be your downfall. If you are not careful, the product you get may be damaged or nearest to being expired. You did saved money but the quality may not be as good.
This goes the same with buying the smoke grillers; you don’t want to compromise the product. So you have to be sure that the ones you choose are worth buying. Of course you might say that the best ones are expensive but if you want something that can last for years then you really have to put your mind into investing on it.
Keep in mind as well that not all smokers are made the same. Some are more modern, packed with the latest technology while some are made to be basic. So you have to be careful when it comes to selecting the right smoke griller for you. If it was up to us, we’d recommend that you pick one from a trusted company.
Companies like Masterbuilt, Bradley and Weber are all known for their products so you know that quality is not compromised there. Sure, we cannot deny the fact that their products can be costly but aren’t we looking for the best smoke griller here?
If you agree with me then you know what is the right smoker for you, right? YES it will be an expensive smoker/griller. YES it should be from a trusted brand. YES it should be able to deliver the best smoky flavored meats and YES, you must truly decide and be willing enough to spend money on it.
Final Thoughts
Buying a smoke griller is a simple process; you prepare your budget, do some research on the unit you like, compare it to others and select the ones that will suit your needs. It may be that simple but always take caution too.
Of course, don’t forget to have fun as you go along the process. It’s the only way to go really! We hope that you find this review as helpful and may your shopping be as pleasing as we hope it would be, enjoy!