Propane Smoker of Excellence (Review And Buying Guide)

Grillers consider a good old smoker to be the next best thing to a barbeque. Although both machines may cook meats and vegetables, smokers and grills have significant differences that distinguish them. Even the greatest propane smoker and the best propane barbeque, however, cannot compete. What distinguishes the two gadgets is as follows:

Barbecues:

• Ensure excess fat drips off meats
• Allow meats and vegetables retain more nutrients
• Use direct heat to cook food
• Must be “babysat;” food has to be flipped every now and then to avoid burning
• Utilize a higher temperature range (~350 degrees Fahrenheit)
• Cook food quickly (~25 to 30 minutes)

Smokers:

• Offer a smokier flavor and often leave a nice smoke ring on meats
• Give tender, fall-off-the-bone texture to meats
• Use indirect heat to cook food
• Allow for set and forget style of cooking
• Most often utilize a lower temperature range (~200 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit)
• Take longer to cook than barbecues (~6 to 8 hours)

It is entirely up to you to decide whether a barbeque or a smoker is ideal for you. If you prefer smoky, tender meats with a gorgeous smoke ring but don’t mind waiting hours for your dinner, a smoker may be for you. If you want juicy, moist meats in a half hour or less, you’re definitely a good candidate for a smoker.

If you want to get your hands on a new smoker, here are 10 of the greatest propane smokers you should check into:

1. Cuisinart COS-244 Vertical 36″ Propane Smoker, Black

If you prefer a propane gas smoker at a reduced price, the Cuisinart COS-244 may be a decent choice. Its four stainless-steel racks in the cooking chamber provide adequate cooking area for an average-sized household or a smaller party. The top rack may be easily removed for bigger amounts of meat, such as entire birds or turkeys. Being a thinner variant, the size of this smoker’s body makes it simpler to travel and stow away than the usual smoker.

This Cuisinart model has a twin door design that allows users to replace the porcelain-enameled water pan and wood chip tray without allowing smoke and heat to escape into the cooking chamber. During smoking, the twist-lock door handle mechanism maintains a tight seal. As a result, customers will no longer need to use gaskets to seal the edges of the smoker’s doors. Best of all, this Cuisinart propane smoker can keep a steady temperature for many hours at a time.

But, if you’re looking for a genuine set-and-forget smoker, you may want to skip this. According to users, the water pan is too tiny and has to be replaced often during smoking sessions. This should come as no surprise to a smaller smoker. Also, some claim that the temperature gauge is inaccurate, thus using an external gauge would be a good idea. Nonetheless, the Cuisinart COS-244 is an excellent choice for individuals looking for something tiny yet well-structured, well-sealed, and simple to use and travel.

Features:

• 4 stainless steel cooking racks (14″ x 14″ each)
• Porcelain enameled water pan and wood chip tray
• 40″ hose/regulator
• Integrated temperature gauge
• Dual door design
• Twist-lock door handles
• Rear vent
• Includes a cover

2. Camp Chef 24″ Smoke Vault Propane Smoker

For a mid-priced smoker, the Camp Chef 24 Smoke Vault has all it takes to entice both novice and experienced smokers. Although this vertical Camp Chef smoker is smaller in stature and only has two cooking racks, the addition of a jerky rack, three damper valves for airflow and temperature adjustment, and a heavy-duty water pan and wood chip tray that beautifully permeates flavor and moisture into every bite compensate for the lack of extra shelf space.

Versatility is also an advantage. This Camp Chef propane smoker’s temperature range of 160 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit provides for both low and slow cooking as well as hot and rapid grilling. You may also be certain that the Smoke Vault will give constant blue smoke and simple temperature adjustment to help you get the results you want.

The inaccurate temperature monitor, smoke leaks around the door, and heat swings in windy conditions are all things to keep an eye out for with this smoker. Several reviewers have reported that the handles got rather hot. In actuality, these drawbacks aren’t all that severe and are rather prevalent among smokers and grillers. After everything is said and done, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault is still a good propane smoker. The superb build, constant heat production, and huge cabinet are unexpected for the inexpensive price.

Features:

• 2 adjustable cooking racks
• 1 jerky smoking rack
• 3 damper valves
• Heat control dials
• Matchless snap ignition
• Heavy-gauge steel wood chip tray and water pan
• Removable porcelain base tray
• Temperature range varies from 160 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit

3. Dyna-Glo DGY784BDP Vertical LP Gas Smoker

The Dyna-Glo DGY784BDP is the best propane smoker for those who want a lot of cooking space, with four adjustable cooking grates, 784 square inches of cooking space, and a 25-pound capacity per rack. If 784 square inches isn’t enough cooking room for you, this smoker model also comes in 1,235 square inch versions with four cooking racks and six cooking racks.

Weaving our way further into the specifications, we discover that this huge propane smoker has a double-door design, an appealing built-in thermometer, lightning-fast electrical ignition, and sliding air dampers. Besides from amazing features, users know that the DGY784BDP has passed thorough, high-quality product testing and has earned CSA certification.

But, it is via the drawbacks that we learn about the quality of a product. Users report that the temperature sensor on this Dyna Glo propane smoker is almost worthless. However, the majority of integrated thermometers on smokers and barbecues are. Customers of this smoker also report smoke leaking and paint bubbles and peels with time. These drawbacks can simply remedied with a few changes. Thankfully, customers note more pros than negatives, including as its lightweight and easy-to-maneuver design, big smoker box, and durable cooking grates.

Features:

• 15,000 BTU cast iron burner
• 784 square inches of cooking space
• 4 adjustable steel cooking racks
• 25 pound capacity per rack
• Push button ignition
• Porcelain-enameled steel wood chip tray with lid and handles
• Porcelain-enameled steel water pan
• Double door design
• Sliding air dampers
• Integrated, stainless steel temperature gauge
• CSA certified
• 1-year warranty

4. Masterbuilt Portable Propane Smoker, Black

If you’re searching for a portable smoker, the Masterbuilt Portable Propane is an excellent choice, especially for those on a tight budget. This model in black costs little under $100. If you want, you may purchase this model in stainless steel for a little more. Whichever your inclination, this Masterbuilt product was clearly built by a master, as seen by its heavy-duty body and ample cooking area while being a portable type.

With its capacity to heat up quickly, produce a large amount of smoke in a short period of time, and maintain a steady temperature, some may consider this to be the finest propane smoker under $200. Even in subzero weather and high winds, this portable smoker performs well, and the temperature is readily adjustable.

Given that it only has two cooking racks, the Masterbuilt Portable Propane Smoker is an excellent alternative for individuals who just want to cook for one or two people at a time. Because of its relatively lightweight body and folding legs, this product is actually portable as intended, making it an excellent choice for camping excursions and tailgates. Nevertheless, consumers report that this little machine has occasional flare-ups and a too-small water pan and wood chip bin, but these are minor annoyances. Yet, once you’ve gotten to know this little guy, smoking has never been simpler or more handy.

Features:

• 5,000 BTU stainless steel burner
• 2 cooking racks
• Wood chip tray
• Water pan
• Adjustable air damper
• Push button ignition
• Integrated temperature gauge
• Foldable legs

5. Masterbuilt 20051311 GS30D 2-Door Propane Smoker

The Masterbuilt the 20051311 GS30D is a two-door smoker with four cooking racks and a generous 717 square inches of cooking area. This device’s top rack provides ample room for consumers to lay bigger slabs of meat without sacrificing other shelves in the process. With cool-touch handles and locking doors, you can be certain that your smoking session will be faster and more convenient.

To make smoking easier, this propane gas smoker has an easy-to-use push-button ignition mechanism with an inbuilt temperature thermometer. This smoker will offer optimal smoke control thanks to an inbuilt air damper. As a consequence, the damper may effectively enable one to customise the smokiness of their foods to their desire. With its strong structure and simplicity of use, you’ve made an excellent investment.

In terms of drawbacks, this smoker is heavy and lacks wheels, making it difficult to carry if required. The heavy-duty structure, according to Masterbuilts, is dependable, since consumers have claimed that it stands up well over time. Nevertheless, heat seeps through the door’s edges, which may be fixed with a gasket. Although the Masterbuilt 20051311 GS30D 2-Door Propane Smoker isn’t for everyone, it does provide simple construction, dependable temperature control, lots of rack capacity, and even cooking across the racks.

Features:

• 717 square inches of cooking space
• 4 chrome cooking racks
• Stainless steel burner
• Push button ignition
• Locking door
• Air damper
• Integrated temperature gauge
• Type 1 regulator with hose
• Cool touch wire handle
• Porcelain coated water pan and wood chip tray

6. Char-Broil Vertical Liquid Propane Gas Smoker

This vertical model, one of the top Char Broil propane smokers, with a good 595 square inches of cooking surface distributed among three chrome-plated cooking grates. It also has a dual door design to prevent heat loss while refilling water and wood chips, as well as a built-in thermometer to help users keep track of their smoking session. This liquid propane smoker may be summed up in three words: simple but practical.

With the addition of a warming rack positioned on the top of the smoker, one may not only cook delicious meats and other meals but also keep them warm before serving. In terms of the smoker’s functionality, anticipate speedy lighting, robust smoke production, and overall simplicity of usage. In fact, even in the middle of winter, this smoker may provide excellent results.

While the gasket on this vertical propane smoker needs to be replaced because it tends to leak smoke around the door, and the temperature gauge needs to be replaced due to its inaccuracy, customers like that it is inexpensive, infuses a quality smoke flavor into meat, and is simple to clean and maintain. Finally, this device is ideal for individuals on a budget and those who like smoking meats the old-fashioned manner, without the use of technology or extraneous features.

Features:

• 595 square inches of cooking space
• 3 chrome plated wire racks
• Warming rack
• Dual door design
• Porcelain water pan and wood chip tray
• Integrated temperature gauge

7. Smoke Hollow 38202G 38-Inch 2-Door Propane Gas Smoker

Beginning with a Smoke Hollow 38-inch 38202G propane smoker, you’ll receive a basic, classic-styled smoker at a terrific price. It has four movable cooking racks and 3.4 cubic feet of cooking capacity, making it ideal for a small family. You may easily make hot dogs or sausages with the addition of a sausage hanger. The dual doors on this Smoke Hollow smoker allow you to add extra water and wood chips without interfering with the cooking process.

More specifically, this smoker has a push-button ignition to make charging your equipment even simpler. You can quickly and easily regulate the temperature range of your current cooking session with its integrated temperature monitor and gas control mechanism. Because of its general dependability and easy-to-start system that preheats quickly, this may be regarded the finest propane smoker under $300.

Nonetheless, critics do point up several significant drawbacks to this smoker. The Smoke Hollow 38202G 39-Inch 2-Door Propane Gas Smoker works well for many people, although others think the pricing is a bit high. There have also been allegations of heat seeping through the door. On the plus side, the latter flaw is easily repaired using gasket tape. Yet, in general, this Smoke Hollow smoker is simple to ignite, with constant temperature control, and a huge woodchip box.

Features:

• 3.4 cubic feet of cooking space
• 4 adjustable, chrome plated cooking racks
• Sausage hanger
• Push button ignition
• Gas control system
• Integrated temperature gauge
• 2 doors
• 20,000 BTUs

8. Weston 36-Inch Outdoor Propane Vertical Smoker

The Weston 36-inch vertical propane smoker is a dependable mid-range model with a stylish stainless-steel finish and an integrated temperature thermometer. This Weston model has two sausage hangers in addition to six strong 14.5 x 14.5 cooking racks. The Weston 36-Inch vertical smoker’s multi-rack spacing enables customers to get the perfect amount of space between the racks no matter what they’re cooking: a rack of ribs, a whole chicken, beef jerky, you name it.

Although the function of this vertical smoker is usually excellent, there are a few noteworthy criticisms. For example, some consumers report that this gas smoker spills heat through the door, but this problem may be rectified with the correct gasket. A few users have discovered that raising the temperature over 200 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit is difficult. As a result, this smoker is ideal for real low and slow cooking.

Yet, many users believe that the advantages of this entry-level smoker exceed the disadvantages. The Weston 36-inch features a simple setup method, solid construction, and a sleek and contemporary appearance. As long as you don’t intend on using this smoker in strong winds, it can keep a consistent, easy-to-control temperature. Although this model lacks bells and whistles, it does provide a lovely design and more cooking area than the usual user would need.

Features:

• 36″ heavy gauge, fully-welded, black-coated steel cabinet
• 9,000 BTU burner
• 6 chrome plated 14.5″ x 14.5″ cooking racks
• 2 sausage hangers
• Rotary ignitor
• Adjustable dampers
• Stainless steel door
• Integrated temperature gauge

9. Smoke Hollow 38205GW Propane Smoker

If you want a sleek smoker with a viewing glass, go no further than the Smoke Hollow propane smoker. The viewing glass not only provides aesthetic value, but it also enables you to observe the development of your meal without having to open the door and evacuate smoke and hot air. Transporting the 38205GW is simple, thanks to grips on both sides of the smoker and a lightweight body.

This model’s overall quality is very noteworthy. Customers won’t have to worry about not getting their money’s worth when it comes to heavy-duty construction and lifespan, thanks to a cast brass burner and heavy-duty chrome-plated cooking racks. This smoker has a sausage hanging rack and an integrated temperature gauge on the viewing glass to add to its excellence.

From outstanding craftsmanship to simple transportation, this gas smoker offers a variety of advantages for its mid-range pricing. Keep in note, however, that the door thermometer is seldom accurate, that there is considerable smoke escape, and that there is no drip pan. Despite these flaws, most people do not regret buying the Smoke Hollow 38205GW Propane Smoker. After all, the 38205GW is simple to install and operate, warms up rapidly, and maintains a consistent temperature for an extended amount of time. As a result, many people consider the 38205GW to be a set-and-forget smoker.

Features:

• 2 door design
• Viewing window
• Cast brass burner
• Push button ignition
• 4 adjustable, chrome plated cooking racks
• 1 sausage hanger rack
• Porcelain coated water pan and wood chip tray with lid
• Integrated temperature gauge

10. Masterbuilt Pro Charcoal and Propane Dual Fuel Smoker

The Masterbuilt Pro Charcoal and Propane Dual Fuel Smoker is the finest propane smoker on our list for the price, with 91 percent of consumers recommending it and an average rating of 4.3 out of 5-stars. Although it seems simpler, this model has a powder-coated steel body, a locking double-door design, an integrated temperature gauge, and a stainless-steel burner.

Several good smokers offer rapid push-button ignition, a detachable drip pan, and an adjustable air damper. The Pro Charcoal and Propane Dual Fuel Smoker has these features as well. But, as implied by the title, it also has the option to utilize two forms of fuel: propane and charcoal. Those who like a smokier taste and a lovely smoke ring on their meats will appreciate the possibility to utilize charcoal if desired. Masterbuilts’ proprietary door design is responsible for the dual-fuel capabilities.

Although there is no insulation on the walls, the door leaks smoke, the thermometer isn’t totally accurate, and the water bowl is flimsier and smaller than expected, this Masterbuilt machine performs well for its low price. According to consumers, this smoker is simple to use, produces a lot of smoke rapidly, retains heat well even in freezing weather, and is a perfect starter smoker. With a few tweaks, this smoker could easily be a 5-star product for many consumers.

Features:

• Double-wall construction
• Powder coated steel body
• Porcelain coated water pan
• 15,400 BTU stainless steel burner
• Push button ignition
• Adjustable air damper
• Dual door design with lock
• Dual fuel capacity (charcoal and propane)
• Patented flame disk bowl
• Removable drip pan
• Integrated temperature gauge

Best Propane Smoker FAQ

Many people believe that all smokers are created equal. This, however, is not the case. To pick the finest propane smoker for your requirements, keep in mind that each model has unique features and capabilities.

Going through the commonly asked questions below will help you understand why it is important to be strategic in your selection to buy the proper propane smoker, or any smoker at all.

Is a propane smoker better than electric?

The difference between gas, charcoal, and pellet smokers is that they all need power to heat up. Yet, there is no one optimal sort of smoker; everyone has advantages and disadvantages. Gas, electricity, charcoal, and pellets are all options. What distinguishes electric smokers from their propane counterparts? It is critical to understand the many categories of smokers: propane

When deciding between an electric and a propane smoker, there are a few key distinctions to consider before deciding which is ideal for you:

• Price: Depending on where you live, running electric smokers are more affordable than running their propane counterparts. Propane fuel tends to add up to around 40 cents an hour while electric smokers cost on average of 6 cents per hour.
• Ease of use: Electric smokers are the easier option as all that’s require to crank up the heat is plugging the device in, pressing a button, and using a dial to achieve your ideal temperature. With propane smokers; however, you’d have to attach and turn on your propane tank and/or add charcoal/wood chips as fuel to heat up the smoker. Many gas smokers also offer convenient dials, but the heating component is the trickier part of these smokers.
• Versatility: If you don’t want to risk not getting to finish your current cooking session due to a sudden power outage, you might be more comfortable with a propane-run smoker. These smokers are also more portable in that they can be used in remote areas where no power outlets are located, and not to mention, can be used in the rain considering there’s no electricity used to run them.
• Flavor: You’ll achieve a smoky flavor and nice smoke ring on your meats with a propane smoke but a subtle smoky flavor with no smoke ring with an electric smoker. The variant flavors from these two types of smokers is based on preference.

How to use a propane smoker?

Using a gas smoker differs from smoker to smoker depending on the type. In general, one would set up and ignite their smoker’s propane tank, add wood chips to the woodchip tray, fill the water pan with their preferred liquid (e.g., water, beer, etc.), and allow their smoker to warm until smoke began to fill the chamber.

To ensure your smoker achieves the proper temperature, adjust any ventilation dampers or temperature knobs as needed.

or woodchip pan, or if the temperature needs to be changed. After your smoker has achieved the appropriate cooking temperature, this is when you add your meal. During the smoking session, keep an eye on the water pan and

When you’ve finished smoking your meal, switch your smoker’s dial to the off position, clear up any ash, empty the wood chip tray and water pan, and clean your smoker according to the instructions in your smoker’s user manual. Constantly clean your smoker after each usage to avoid rust buildup (especially on the grates), which may be detrimental to one’s health if they ingest food cooked on rusted, unclean grates in the future.

Read the directions in your individual smoker’s user manual or watch a video online for further information on how to operate a propane smoker.

What to cook in propane smoker?

Cooking using a gas smoker is a diverse method. In addition to a wide range of meats (from ribs and brisket to chicken and sausage), jerky, and vegetables, you may smoke fish and shellfish, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, corn bread, beans, green beans, deviled eggs, cobbler, and a variety of cheeses.

Investigate several propane smoker recipes to discover more exciting possibilities.

Can you leave a propane smoker unattended?

The advantage of smoking with gas smokers over grilling with a barbeque is that you don’t have to pay as close attention to what you’re cooking.

Although many people report that they leave their smoker unsupervised for many hours at a time, this may be dangerous. If you are not there to watch your smoking session, the smoker may develop difficulties, or your meal may dry out or overcook.

or adjusting the temperature as needed. Keeping an eye on your smoker is vital when adding extra water to the water pan, replacing wood chips, and so on.

How much propane does smoker use?

A 14- to 16-ounce propane tank will last you 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you an idea of how much propane gas smokers consume. Typical propane tanks (20 pounds) generally have a lifespan of 18 to 20 hours.

How to clean propane smoker?

Cleaning a propane smoker is quite simple, but first ensure that your smoker is not actively in use and has had time to cool down before you begin. Wear gloves as well to prevent putting oil and ash on your skin.

or wood chip tray, as well as any leftover ash in your smoker. While cleaning your smoker, you should concentrate on the outside, the door inside and out, the racks, the water pan, and the chimney.

Additionally, be sure to consult your smoker’s user manual for cleaning recommendations particular to your equipment.

Which is the best propane smoker?

With so many different smoker brands available, choosing the finest propane smoker may be tough. In fact, one might argue that it is impossible since everyone would have their own sense of what constitutes a good smoker.

But, based on our research, the following are the top three rated and most regularly purchased gas smokers:

1. Masterbuilt Pro Charcoal and Propane Dual Fuel Smoker (average 4.3 out of 5-star rating; 650+ reviewers)
2. Smoke Hollow 38202G 38-Inch 2-Door Propane Gas Smoker (average 4.2 out of 5-star rating; 190+ reviewers)
3. Camp Chef 24″ Smoke Vault Propane Smoker (average 4.1 out of 5-star rating; 280+ reviewers)