You’re ready to elevate your backyard barbecuing, but you’re not sure which grill-smoker combo deserves your investment. The market’s flooded with options—charcoal, electric, wood pellet—each promising superior flavor and convenience. You’ll identify which models truly deliver the versatility and performance you’re after. Let’s examine what separates the best from the rest.
Quick Overview
- Cooking surface area should exceed 700 square inches for accommodating multiple items during family gatherings and entertaining groups.
- Fuel type selection—charcoal, wood pellet, or electric—influences flavor profiles, maintenance requirements, and desired level of cooking involvement.
- Digital temperature controls ranging from 180°F to 450°F enable versatile cooking from low-and-slow smoking to high-temperature grilling.
- Built-in thermometers, removable ash pans, and side doors simplify temperature monitoring, cleanup, and charcoal management for convenient operation.
- Top-rated models like Masterbuilt and Royal Gourmet offer proven reliability with 4.2 to 4.4-star ratings from thousands of reviews.
| Royal Gourmet 30-Inch Charcoal Grill with Smoker |
| Best For Small Spaces | Cooking Capacity: 811 sq. in. total | Fuel Type: Charcoal | Temperature Control Method: Adjustable fire grates and damper | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker |
| Most Versatile Electric | Cooking Capacity: 710 sq. in. total | Fuel Type: Electric | Temperature Control Method: Digital controls up to 275°F | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker,Black |
| Largest Capacity Charcoal | Cooking Capacity: 1,890 sq. in. total | Fuel Type: Charcoal | Temperature Control Method: Adjustable smoke stack flue | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Traeger Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker |
| Best Value Pellet | Cooking Capacity: 572 sq. in. total | Fuel Type: Wood pellets (electric) | Temperature Control Method: Adjustable 180°F to 450°F | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Royal Gourmet CC1830S Charcoal Grill and Smoker |
| Best Overall Charcoal | Cooking Capacity: 823 sq. in. total | Fuel Type: Charcoal | Temperature Control Method: Adjustable lifting rack with thermometer | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Ninja Woodfire Pro XL 4-in-1 Grill & Smoker (OG850) |
| Best For Beginners | Cooking Capacity: 180 sq. in. total | Fuel Type: Wood pellets (electric) | Temperature Control Method: Smart thermometer, adjustable heat | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Grill |
| Best Smart Features | Cooking Capacity: 180 sq. in. total | Fuel Type: Wood pellets (electric) | Temperature Control Method: Dual thermometers with app control | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Royal Gourmet 30-Inch Charcoal Grill with Smoker
If you’re working with limited space but don’t want to sacrifice smoking capability, the Royal Gourmet CC1830W delivers both grilling and smoking in a compact footprint. You’ll get 811 square inches of cooking area across adjustable grates, a warming rack, and an offset smoker chamber. The two-level fire grate adjustment lets you control heat precisely, while the built-in thermometer guarantees accuracy. You’ll appreciate the wood-painted prep tables and storage shelf for organizing your tools and accessories. With 18,000 BTUs of heating power and a 4.4-pound charcoal capacity, this grill-smoker combo handles everything from vegetables to brisket. At 4.4 stars from nearly 800 reviews, it’s a solid investment for backyard barbecue enthusiasts seeking versatility without bulk.
- Cooking Capacity:811 sq. in. total
- Fuel Type:Charcoal
- Temperature Control Method:Adjustable fire grates and damper
- Weight:49.4 lbs.
- Customer Rating:4.4 out of 5 stars (791 reviews)
- Cooking Versatility:Grilling and smoking
- Additional Feature:Adjustable fire grate heights
- Additional Feature:Wood-painted prep tables
- Additional Feature:Mesh storage shelf included
Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker
The Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker delivers serious smoking capacity without requiring you to manage charcoal or propane. You’ll access 710 square inches of cooking space across four chrome racks, accommodating up to seven chickens or four pork butts simultaneously. Digital controls let you maintain precise temperatures up to 275°F, while the patented side wood chip loader enables continuous smoke infusion. The vertical design optimizes natural heat and smoke circulation for exceptional flavor development. You’ll appreciate the removable water bowl and rear grease tray for hassle-free cleanup, plus the lockable door latch preserving heat retention. With a 4.2-star rating from nearly 19,000 reviews, this smoker ranks third in outdoor smokers, proving its reliability for serious barbecue enthusiasts.
- Cooking Capacity:710 sq. in. total
- Fuel Type:Electric
- Temperature Control Method:Digital controls up to 275°F
- Weight:50.3 lbs.
- Customer Rating:4.2 out of 5 stars (18,905 reviews)
- Cooking Versatility:Smoking (low and slow)
- Additional Feature:Patented side wood loader
- Additional Feature:Four chrome-coated racks
- Additional Feature:Window for food monitoring
Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker,Black
Looking for serious smoking capacity without sacrificing control? The Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D delivers 1,890 square inches of cooking space across six adjustable grates, each supporting 25 pounds. Its offset design keeps direct heat away from food, enabling slow, even cooking. The vertical layout promotes natural heat circulation for enhanced efficiency and smoke flavor. You’ll appreciate the porcelain-enameled charcoal chamber’s superior burn efficiency and the sliding ash pan’s convenient cleanup. The built-in stainless steel thermometer features a “Smoke Zone” indicator, guiding you toward perfectly smoked results. Adjustable smoke stack flue lets you fine-tune temperature and flavor precisely.
- Cooking Capacity:1,890 sq. in. total
- Fuel Type:Charcoal
- Temperature Control Method:Adjustable smoke stack flue
- Weight:Weight not specified
- Customer Rating:Rating not specified
- Cooking Versatility:Smoking (low and slow)
- Additional Feature:Six height-adjustable grates
- Additional Feature:Removable steel ash pan
- Additional Feature:Stainless steel thermometer gauge
Traeger Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
You’ll appreciate the Traeger Pro 22’s versatility if you’re serious about mastering multiple cooking techniques without buying separate equipment. This 6-in-1 grill-smoker combo handles grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, braising, and BBQing with authentic wood-fired flavor. Its 572 square-inch cooking surface accommodates 24 burgers, 5 rib racks, or 4 whole chickens. You’ll control temperatures from 180°F to 450°F with impressive accuracy, while the built-in meat probe lets you monitor doneness without lifting the lid. The 18-pound hopper supports extended cooking sessions, and durable powder-coated steel construction withstands outdoor conditions. Large wheels provide mobility, making repositioning effortless.
- Cooking Capacity:572 sq. in. total
- Fuel Type:Wood pellets (electric)
- Temperature Control Method:Adjustable 180°F to 450°F
- Weight:Weight not specified
- Customer Rating:Rating not specified
- Cooking Versatility:6-in-1 (grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, BBQ)
- Additional Feature:Built-in meat probe
- Additional Feature:Rugged sawhorse chassis
- Additional Feature:18 lb hopper capacity
Royal Gourmet CC1830S Charcoal Grill and Smoker
If you’re seeking a compact, affordable grill-smoker combo that doesn’t sacrifice functionality, Royal Gourmet’s CC1830S delivers excellent results for beginners and budget-conscious outdoor cooks. This charcoal-powered unit features 823 square inches of cooking surface across its main grates, warming rack, and offset smoker chamber. You’ll appreciate the porcelain-enameled grates for reliable heat distribution and the built-in thermometer for temperature control. The offset smoker design optimizes airflow, while the easy-access side door simplifies charcoal management. Weighing just 45.2 pounds, it’s portable enough for camping trips yet sturdy enough for regular backyard use. With a 4.3-star rating from nearly 7,000 reviews, this grill-smoker proves you don’t need premium pricing for impressive barbecue results.
- Cooking Capacity:823 sq. in. total
- Fuel Type:Charcoal
- Temperature Control Method:Adjustable lifting rack with thermometer
- Weight:45.2 lbs.
- Customer Rating:4.3 out of 5 stars (6,924 reviews)
- Cooking Versatility:Grilling and smoking
- Additional Feature:Easy-access side door
- Additional Feature:Adjustable lifting rack
- Additional Feature:Optimal airflow stacks/dampers
Ninja Woodfire Pro XL 4-in-1 Grill & Smoker (OG850)
The Ninja Woodfire Pro XL 4-in-1 Grill & Smoker (OG850) is ideal for anyone who wants versatility without sacrificing space—its 180 square inches of cooking area delivers 30% more capacity than the original Ninja outdoor grill, accommodating everything from 2 full racks of ribs to a 10-pound brisket. You’ll appreciate the real woodfire technology that combines electric convenience with authentic smoky flavor using wood pellets. The smart built-in thermometer monitors doneness in real-time, while the portable design suits backyards, decks, and RVs. With its weather-resistant construction and all-in-one functionality—grill, smoker, air fryer, and oven—you’re investing in a serious cooking powerhouse.
- Cooking Capacity:180 sq. in. total
- Fuel Type:Wood pellets (electric)
- Temperature Control Method:Smart thermometer, adjustable heat
- Weight:38.9 lbs.
- Customer Rating:4.6 out of 5 stars (1,405 reviews)
- Cooking Versatility:4-in-1 (grill, smoke, air fry, bake)
- Additional Feature:Real woodfire technology included
- Additional Feature:Weather-resistant year-round design
- Additional Feature:Portable with wheels included
Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Grill
For those seeking a versatile outdoor cooking solution that doesn’t compromise on authentic flavor, the Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Grill delivers seven cooking functions—grilling, smoking, air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and dehydrating—all powered by real wood pellets. You’ll appreciate the 180 square inches of cooking space, 30% larger than the original model, accommodating full racks of ribs, multiple burgers, or a substantial brisket. The dual thermometers let you cook two proteins simultaneously at different temperatures. Smart connectivity through the Ninja ProConnect app keeps you informed with real-time notifications and helpful cooking tips. At 38.9 lbs, it’s portable enough for RVs and balconies while durable enough for year-round outdoor use.
- Cooking Capacity:180 sq. in. total
- Fuel Type:Wood pellets (electric)
- Temperature Control Method:Dual thermometers with app control
- Weight:38.9 lbs.
- Customer Rating:4.6 out of 5 stars (1,405 reviews)
- Cooking Versatility:7-in-1 (grill, smoke, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate)
- Additional Feature:Dual built-in thermometers
- Additional Feature:Ninja ProConnect app control
- Additional Feature:7-in-1 cooking functionality
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Grill With Built in Smoker
When you’re selecting a grill-smoker combo, you’ll want to evaluate the cooking surface area to confirm it matches your typical serving size and entertaining needs. Consider the fuel type options available—whether you prefer charcoal, gas, pellets, or wood—since each affects flavor profiles, convenience, and maintenance requirements. You should also assess the temperature control range, construction material durability, and smoking capacity features to ensure the unit can handle both your grilling and smoking ambitions.
Cooking Surface Area
Your ability to cook multiple items simultaneously—or prepare larger cuts of meat—hinges on choosing the right cooking surface area. Grill-smoker combos range from 180 to 1890 square inches, so you’ll want to match capacity to your needs.
For family gatherings, aim for at least 500 square inches. If you regularly entertain larger groups, prioritize models exceeding 700 square inches, which offer greater versatility and flexibility.
Don’t overlook secondary spaces like warming racks or offset smoker chambers. These contribute meaningfully to your total usable cooking area and enable you to grill and smoke simultaneously without compromising capacity.
Consider your typical cooking demands. You’ll appreciate the extra room when juggling steaks, vegetables, and sides at once.
Fuel Type Selection
The fuel you choose shapes everything about your grilling experience—from the flavors you’ll achieve to how much effort you’ll invest in maintenance. You’ve got three primary options to evaluate.
Charcoal delivers traditional smoky flavor and intense heat, but demands hands-on temperature management and ash cleanup. If you enjoy active participation in cooking, this suits you well.
Wood pellet grills strike a balance, combining authentic wood flavor with electric convenience. You’ll appreciate precise temperature control and automated pellet feeding with minimal mess.
Electric smokers prioritize ease of use with digital controls, making them perfect for beginners or tight spaces. However, you’ll sacrifice some authentic smokiness compared to wood or charcoal alternatives.
Match your choice to your lifestyle: prioritize flavor and tradition, or convenience and consistency?
Temperature Control Range
Achieving versatility in your grill-smoker combo hinges on its temperature control range. You’ll want a unit that spans from 180°F for low-and-slow smoking to 450°F for high-temperature grilling, accommodating various cooking styles and proteins. Digital smokers offer precision, maintaining temperatures within ±15-degree accuracy—a significant advantage over analog models that require manual airflow adjustments and constant monitoring. A built-in thermometer with a defined ‘Smoke Zone’ helps you maintain ideal smoking temperatures while preventing overcooking. Consider whether you prefer the convenience of automated temperature management or don’t mind hands-on control. Combined grill-smoker capabilities give you flexibility to cook different meats and vegetables at appropriate heat levels, maximizing your investment and culinary possibilities.
Construction Material Quality
While temperature control determines how you cook, construction material quality determines whether your grill-smoker combo will endure years of use. You’ll want to prioritize heavy-duty options like alloy steel or porcelain-enameled steel, which withstand high temperatures and resist warping that compromises heat distribution.
Durability matters because quality materials maintain consistent cooking performance season after season. Look for weather-resistant construction that protects against rain, snow, and UV exposure without deterioration. Your investment deserves protection from the elements.
Additionally, consider porcelain-coated grates that simplify maintenance. They prevent food residue and grease buildup, reducing cleaning time while extending your grill’s lifespan. Superior construction stabilizes your unit, ensuring reliable performance for countless backyard gatherings ahead.
Smoking Capacity Features
Since you’ll be smoking various cuts and quantities of meat, evaluating cooking space should be your first priority. A grill offering 710 square inches provides ample room for multiple racks or larger pieces simultaneously.
Look for adjustable smoking grates or removable shelves that accommodate different food sizes and boost versatility. An integrated wood chip loader keeps flavor continuously infusing throughout the smoking process, delivering authentic taste without interruption.
A built-in thermometer proves essential for monitoring internal temperatures and maintaining ideal smoking conditions. Additionally, a water bowl helps regulate moisture levels, preventing your meat from drying out while enhancing overall flavor development.
These features work together to maximize your smoking efficiency and results.
Assembly and Maintenance
You’ll want to carefully analyze the assembly requirements before purchasing, as some grill-smoker combos demand extensive setup and specialized tools that can complicate your initial experience. Beyond assembly, prioritize maintenance considerations like ash tray accessibility and grease management systems that keep your unit running smoothly.
Look for models featuring removable parts and easy-access doors that streamline post-cooking cleanup. Built-in thermometers simplify temperature management without adding maintenance burden, enhancing your cooking results effortlessly.
Construction materials greatly impact durability and longevity. Examine what you’re investing in—quality materials resist wear from regular use and minimize future repair needs. By evaluating these factors upfront, you’ll choose a grill-smoker that delivers both convenience and reliability for years of backyard cooking enjoyment.
Price and Budget
Once you’ve narrowed down your options based on assembly and maintenance needs, it’s time to evaluate the financial investment required. Grill-smoker combos typically range from $200 to over $1,000, so establish your budget first. Assess the cooking area—models exceeding 1,000 square inches justify higher prices through increased versatility. Factor in ongoing costs like specialized fuel or wood chips, which vary by model. Advanced features such as digital controls and temperature monitoring systems command premium pricing; weigh whether you’ll actually use them. Finally, examine warranty offerings carefully. Extended warranties increase upfront costs but deliver better long-term reliability and support, potentially saving you money down the road. Balance features against your budget to find the best value.
Portability and Space
As your grill-smoker combo’s dimensions and weight directly impact where and how you’ll use it, evaluating these factors is crucial before making a purchase. You’ll want to measure your available outdoor space—whether patio, deck, or yard—to guarantee the unit fits comfortably.
Consider weight carefully. Lighter models offer superior portability for camping or tailgating, while heavier units provide stability but sacrifice mobility. Look for features like collapsible legs or integrated wheels that enhance transportability for recreational use.
Balance compact designs with your cooking needs. Smaller grills occupy less space but offer limited cooking area, so assess whether the trade-off suits your entertaining style. Additionally, check storage shelf weight capacity to determine how many accessories and tools you can keep nearby during grilling sessions.
