The Best Backyard Charcoal Smoker

One of the finest ways to enjoy outside dining is to smoke food. We are constantly enthralled by the aroma and flavor of smoke-prepared foods. To do this, we’ll need a reliable charcoal smoker at home.

The chance of purchasing the incorrect charcoal smoker is significant. That is why we suggest reading this list and determining which of the hundreds of charcoal smokers on the market is best for you. Finding the finest charcoal smoker might be difficult. Nevertheless, with a little research, you can limit down your options and eventually choose the finest charcoal smoker for you.

1. Weber 22” Smokey Mountain Cooker, Charcoal Smoker

 

When it comes to grilling and smoking, Weber is a well-known brand. Because of its adaptability and usefulness, the Smokey Mountain Cooker Series 22 charcoal smoker is one of our top picks. This greatest charcoal smoker not only smokes your fresh catch of salmon or ready-to-eat steak, but it also makes your mouth water as the aroma of barbecue fills the air.

It includes two plated steel grilling grates where the meat may be readily placed for smoking. It may hold a couple of huge cuts of meat or numerous smaller ribs. It also comes with an extra-large water pan that keeps the heat going for an all-day smoking experience. Moreover, since the fuel door is detachable, it is simple to load charcoal and wood.

There is also an integrated thermometer to verify that the meat is smoking at the correct temperature! After all, we all know that the correct temperature is the key to that delectable flavour when it comes to cooking meat.

What we enjoy about it:

• Stainless steel cooking grate
• Integrated thermometer
• Legs that are resistant to rust
• Simple to construct
• Maximum interior temperature: 190 F

Specifications:

• Dimensions of the grid: 21 x 21 in.
• Grilling Surface: 363 sq. in.
• The total grilling area is 726 square inches.

2. Realcook 17” Vertical Steel Charcoal Smoker

 

Outdoor cooking is simple and enjoyable with this excellent charcoal smoker from Realcook! With this multi-functional smoker, you may offer the tastiest barbeque and smoked meals to family and friends during a party. With Realcooks charcoal smoker, you may not only smoke or grill, but also steam, bake, roast, and even braise your food. If this isn’t enough, we’re not sure what is.

It also has two entry doors, making it more easy for you to utilize. You may check on your meal at any time by opening the top door. Meanwhile, you may add charcoal or wood by opening the other door. This system provides for optimum cooking and temperature regulation for your food while saving it from unnecessary door openings.

Its charcoal smoker’s performance is enhanced by the inclusion of heat-resistant Bakelite handles. The handles make transporting, basting, and cooking your meal a breeze. It also features a crossbar and four hangers, allowing you to smoke meat of various sizes and shapes.

What we enjoy about it:

• Integrated thermometer
• Cooking grids in two pieces
• Locking latch system
• 2 entrance doors
• Smoking, whether cold or hot
• Air vent that may be adjusted

Specifications:

• Measurements of the item: 22 x 17 x 35 in.
• Grilling Surface Area: 453 sq. in.

3. Realcook 20” Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill

 

If the Realcooks 17 is too tiny for your smoking and grilling requirements, consider investing in one of the 20 finest charcoal smokers. You can absolutely prepare more for any party or event with three extra available spaces. It has almost the same advantages as the 17, but with additional area to cook and smoke meat.

In addition, the 20 charcoal smoker includes a unique bottom damper with an ash collection. This enables for more precise control of airflow from the bottom, which aids in keeping a consistent temperature inside the smoker grill. Meanwhile, the ash collector collects ashes in one location for simple cleanup.

Despite its bigger size, the Realcook 20 charcoal smoker is portable and simple to set up. It is made up of four sections that may be assembled and disassembled for travel. When you need to utilize it, it takes around 30-45 minutes to install. Also, when the weather becomes cold, you can use this finest charcoal smoker as a fire pit! It’s all because of its latch locking mechanism! Isn’t this a bargain in and of itself?

What we enjoy about it:

• Design of a unique vent
• Portable
• Simple to construct
• Huge storage capacity
• Multi-layer
• Accessible doors that work
• Water pan with porcelain enameling
• Integrated thermometer

Specifications:

• Measurements of the item: 25 x 20 x 41 in.
• The total grilling area is 636 square inches.

4. Kamado Joe 18” Classic II Charcoal Grill

 

Kamado Joe is a dream come true when it comes to charcoal grills and smokers. It is more costly than other charcoal grillers and smokers, but it is well worth the money since it is packed with fantastic features and is built of high-quality, long-lasting materials. The Classic II is a premium ceramic barbecue with an 18-inch diameter. It has a cast iron cart with lockable wheels so you never have to worry about it moving around while smoking.

It contains two levels of grills that form a half-moon shape. Its design enables you to cook a variety of meals at different temperatures at the same time. Moreover, its Control Tower Top Vent is what makes it the greatest charcoal smoker. As you open and shut the charcoal smoker, this helps to maintain a consistent air setting for correct airflow control. It is also resistant to moisture and mold, making it ideal for any outdoor requirements.

What we enjoy about it:

• Cooking method that is adaptable
• Consistent airflow is controlled.
• Airlift hinge with a patent
• The AMP Firebox
• Gasket made of fiberglass mesh
• Latch made of stainless steel
• Motor is powerful yet quiet.
• Can you make pizza?

Specifications:

• Measurements of the item: 26.40 x 26.40 x 36 in.
• Temperature range: 225°F to 750°F

5. Dyna-Glo 36” DGX780BDC-D Vertical Charcoal Smoker

 

Dyna-Glo produces one of the biggest charcoal smokers on our list of the finest charcoal smokers. This 36 vertical charcoal smoker is ideal for big volumes of smoking. A vertical charcoal smoker is ideal for capturing and maximizing smokey flavor since the smoke simply rises and rises! Another feature that distinguishes this as the finest charcoal smoker is its ability to accept a variety of food sizes and varieties! It includes four cooking grates that may be readily adjusted to suit your requirements.

It has two doors for easy access anytime you need to check on your cooking or add charcoal. The porcelain enamel charcoal chamber is designed so that briquettes may be packed securely for a more efficient and enhanced smoking experience. To keep dust and other factors away from your Dyna-Glo vertical chain smoker, acquire this Dyna-Glo DG784GSC Premium Cover.

What we enjoy about it:

• Huge storage capacity
• The charcoal chamber and grate are included.
• It has a detachable ash pan.
• Temperature gauge made of stainless steel
• 4 griddle pans

Specifications:

• Measurements of the item: 20.83 x 21.45 x 49.73
• The total smoking area is 784 square inches.

6. Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill

 

If you’re on a low budget yet want to experience Kamado-style cooking, this Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill from Char-Griller is a good option. Despite its low price, it can compete with more costly brands like Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe.

One of the many features we enjoy about this charcoal barbecue is the triple-walled insulation, which helps keep the heat in. It maintains temperatures ranging from 200 F to 700 F to offer the greatest Kamado-style grilling. It also features a warming rack that can be removed right above the cast iron grill area. This means you can keep your meal warm after you’ve finished grilling it.

Moreover, its adjustable top damper protects airflow and precisely adjusts heat to suit your smoking style. The bottom damper further regulates airflow to maintain temperature precision and accuracy. Additionally, you won’t have to worry about cleaning up ashes since it comes with an ash pan. Once you’ve finished smoking, just remove it and discard the gathered ash. It is the ideal charcoal smoker for high heat cooking and grilling as well as slow smoking.

What we enjoy about it:

• Insulation with three layers of protection
• Cooking surface made of cast iron
• The exterior is made of powder-coated steel.
• The inside is made of porcelain-coated steel.
• 2 metal folding shelves
• Temperature gauge
• Warming rack that can be removed

Specifications:

• Dimensions of the product: 45 x 31 x 47
• 314 square inches of primary cooking space.
• Warming Rack Surface Area: 133 sq. in.
• Overall Cooking Surface Area: 447 sq. in.
• Temperature range: 200°F to 700°F

7. Cuisinart 18” COS-118 Vertical Charcoal Smoker

 

Cuisinart is an expert in cooking equipment. They have earned their place on our list of the greatest charcoal smokers. The 18 vertical charcoal smoker provides plenty of space to smoke your favorite meals, whether they’re hard like meat or soft like veggies and cheese. It has two air vents. These vents aid in controlling the amount of heat and smoke produced by your vertical charcoal smoker. These vents are readily opened and closed to assist manage the amount of heat and smoke in the chamber.

Additionally, it features a steel casing, which demonstrates its endurance and robustness. The porcelain enameled steel water basin prevents drippings from falling onto your charcoal. Also, water vapor improves the taste of what you’re smoking. This is also one of the simplest charcoal smokers to construct, requiring just a screwdriver and around 15 minutes.

What we enjoy about it:

• There are two air vents.
• Two racks of 18 stainless steel
• Water dish made of porcelain enamel
• Base latching
• Steel construction
• Simple upkeep and cleaning
• Simple to construct

Specifications:

• Measurements of the item: 22 x 24 x 43
• The total cooking area is 512 square meters.

8. Sunlifer 20.5” Vertical Charcoal Smoker and Grill Combo

 

A heavy-duty barbecue smoker is required for the ultimate outdoor party. This smoker is one of the greatest because of its multi-functionality; it can be used for both hot and cold smoking. It may also be used as a fire pit, charcoal grill, and barbeque grill, among other things. It’s wonderful for not just smoking and grilling, but also baking, braising, roasting, and steaming!

This all-around smoker and grill combination has a built-in thermometer with the most comprehensive temperature scale as well as two adjustable air vents for maximum temperature control. The crossbar and hooks inside can accommodate a variety of food sizes and varieties. It also comes with three cooking grates, giving you a total cooking area of 969 square inches!

This charcoal smoker is also quite portable, which we like. It is incredibly simple to put together, clean, and transfer at your preferred position. Sunlifer’s 20.5 vertical charcoal smoker will never let you down.

What we enjoy about it:

• Ample cooking space
• Locking latch system
• 2 entrance doors
• Multi-functional
• Built-in thermometer with precision
• Simple to put together, clean, and transport

Specifications:

• Measurements of the item: 41.34 x 24.8 x 20.67
• Overall Cooking Surface Area: 969 sq. in.

9. Masterbuilt 20060416 Charcoal Bullet Smoker

 

Smoking meat and other delicacies requires not just talent but also the perfect charcoal smoker. Thus, if you want to become a smoking master chef, try this Masterbuilt charcoal bullet smoker. This charcoal smoker is ideal for learning and mastering the art of smoking. The Charcoal Bullet Smoker comes with two porcelain-coated smoking racks, which are ideal for smoking since they prevent metal bits from falling off from your iron racks. You will enjoy a worry-free smoking experience as long as the porcelain racks are intact.

The charcoal access door is positioned in the front, making it simple for you. Moreover, you may be certain that you will always obtain the correct temperature since it has a built-in thermometer that displays the current reading. Masterbuilt offers one of the greatest charcoal smokers for you, whether you’re having a quiet meal with family or a full-fledged party with friends!

What we enjoy about it:

• The ideal outdoor tool
• Extremely easy to use
• Temperature measurement that is precise
• 2 racks with porcelain coating
• Water dish with porcelain coating
• Charcoal pan with porcelain coating
• Front entrance door

Specifications:

• Measurements of the item: 19 x 22 x 31
• The total smoking area is 395.4 square inches.

10. Giantex 2-tier Vertical Charcoal Smoker

 

The double access door design should be one of the fundamentals of a charcoal smoker. And Giantex’s vertical charcoal smoker serves this purpose. Moreover, it includes a readable thermometer situated just outside the door for easy reading of the indoor temperature. It includes four vents on each sides of the charcoal smoker to assist manage the smoke and heat. This offers you the ability to manually regulate the smoke by opening or shutting the vents.

Moreover, it is composed of temperature-resistant plastic-sprayed iron. The iron keeps things hot, while the temperature-resistant plastic stops the smoker from corroding. The grills and brackets are chromium-plated and have high heat conductivity, which results in a shorter cooking time.

You may both smoke and roast meat here. It is also really simple to use. Just add wood and charcoal to the charcoal basin to have the smoker emit more smoke. You may regulate the smoke via the four vents on both sides of the apparatus by closing the bottom door. With such convenience, you’ll have smoked meals in a matter of hours.

What we enjoy about it:

• A thermometer that can be seen
• 2 entrance doors
• four air vents
• Both sides have handles.
• Simple handling and transportation
• Charcoal basin encaustic
• Iron that can withstand high temperatures
• Brackets and grills coated with chromium
• Cooking time has been reduced.
• Huge capacity for cooking
• Simple to use

Specifications:

• Measurements of the item: 17 x 18.5 x 40

11. Barton 18” Vertical Charcoal Smoker with Temperature Gauge

 

Having a smoker that can smoke different sorts of meals is a delight. This Barton charcoal smoker is a must-have. With this 18 vertical charcoal smoker, you can smoke a variety of meats, veggies, and even cheese.

This smoker comes with two steel wire racks. The racks provide ample space for you to smoke a variety of items, from various sorts of meat to veggies. It also has enough space to hold an entire chicken!

It’s as simple as counting to three to use Bartons charcoal smoker. To begin, ignite the charcoal and add wood pieces. Fill the water bowl next. Finally, stock the inside racks with food! Unless you want to regulate the temperature and smoke to your desire, it’s OK. This allows you to make changes to the air vents. This charcoal smoker includes a dual air vent system that allows you to control the amount of heat and smoke produced throughout the smoking process.

Also, the temperature gauge is located on the charcoal smoker’s lid. This allows you a fast and simple temperature monitoring to confirm that you are still smoking and on the proper track for the heat. The temperature for smoking goes from 200 F to 275 F, and you may control it via the vents.

Meanwhile, the thermometer gauge ranges from 100 to 800 degrees Fahrenheit. You may be confident in the smoker’s longevity and strength since it is built of steel and iron. If used and maintained properly, this should last you many years.

What we enjoy about it:

• Steel and iron construction
• It has the potential to be utilized as a fire pit.
• Grill for barrels that can be adjusted
• 2 different grilling and smoking heights
• System of two air vents
• 2 racks made of steel wire
• Easy to use

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 23.5 x 21 x 42 in total
• Cooking Area: 512 sq. in.

12. Audew 18” Charcoal Smoker Grill Outdoor

 

Audew is one of the most reasonably priced charcoal smokers on this list. Despite its high price, it is regarded as one of the greatest charcoal smokers due to its efficient capacity to produce well-smoked meats. It is a 2-in-1 unit that functions as both a smoker and a griller. It is no longer necessary to buy two different things for smoking and grilling.

When it comes to monitoring the temperature, this has a built-in thermometer that lets you to keep track of the inside temperature. You may modify the temperature even further by regulating the fire and managing the interior circulation through the damper vent.

The two cooking grids give a total of 480 square inches of cooking area. It’s plenty to feed your family and a small group of friends. The fuel door makes it simple to monitor the fuel level and add charcoal as required. It also keeps smoke from escaping when you’re smoking the meal.

Since it is a portable charcoal smoker and griller, it is appropriate for outdoor cooking. This greatest charcoal smoker comes highly recommended, particularly if you are on a limited budget. Considering its low price and efficient smoking abilities, this is unquestionably a must-have.

What we enjoy about it:

• Integrated thermometer
• vent dampener
• Grids that can be removed
• Easy-to-clean ash pan
• Easy temperature control

Specifications:

• Measurements of the item: 18.5 x 18.5 x 45
• Grilling Surface Area: 480 sq. in.

What To Look For When Buying The Best Charcoal Smoker

Now that we’ve provided our suggestions, it’s up to you to determine which one you like. While making a choice, you must examine a number of things. After all, you want the finest charcoal smoker that will provide you with the greatest smokey meats while also being sturdy enough to endure the test of time and the harsh elements in the environment.

Capacity

When purchasing a charcoal smoker, capacity is a crucial consideration. You should be aware with the various sizes and how much you can prepare at one time. A huge capacity cooking area can save you a lot of time, particularly if you serve large groups. But, if you simply need this for family time, you may make do with a standard kitchen area.

Function

The majority of the items featured in this article are multi-functional. You may smoke as well as grill your items. Some even include extra features like baking pizza or functioning as a fire pit on chilly days. They are also excellent for braising and steaming. Each manufacturer offers distinct features to enhance their goods. As a result, you must understand what these functions are and if you may utilize them.

Portability

The ability to carry your smoker is critical, particularly for outdoor usage. Portable charcoal smokers are ideal since they can be quickly transported from one area to another. The greatest charcoal smoker is extremely simple to put together. Easy and quick assembly reduces preparation time and speeds up the procedure. Be certain that you obtain a good, portable charcoal smoker that you can use outside.

Budget

While picking on the finest charcoal smoker for you, your budget is crucial. No matter how much you want a certain brand of charcoal smoker, if it is out of your price range, you will be unable to get it. First, decide on a budget. Understand your financial constraints. This can help you limit down your options to a handful.

After you’ve narrowed it down, conduct your homework to discover which of the options above best meets your requirements. Be assured that there are several finest charcoal smokers that are still robust and operate effectively regardless of your budget.