If you’re an outdoor cooking enthusiast who loves both grilling and smoking, a smoker grill combo is the perfect addition to your backyard. These versatile units combine the benefits of a smoker and a grill into one appliance, allowing you to enjoy a range of cooking techniques, from searing steaks to slow-smoking ribs.
In this article, we’ll evaluate the best smoker grill combos, considering key factors like performance, durability, features, and price. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision by analyzing the top models in the market and providing you with insights on their suitability for various cooking styles and needs.
What is a Smoker Grill Combo?
Before diving into the top products, let’s clarify what a smoker grill combo is. Essentially, it’s a hybrid outdoor cooking appliance that lets you grill food over direct heat while also enabling you to smoke food at lower, indirect temperatures. The best smoker grill combos offer both grilling and smoking capabilities, which can be achieved by using a combination of direct and indirect heat zones. They often come with features like adjustable grates, side fireboxes, and dedicated smoking chambers.
These units typically run on charcoal, wood pellets, or gas, and some even offer hybrid designs that can use multiple fuel sources. Regardless of the fuel type, the combination of a grill and a smoker is ideal for those who want to experiment with different cooking styles, from searing steaks to producing tender, smoked brisket.
Key Features to Look for in a Smoker Grill Combo
When selecting the best smoker grill combo, it’s important to evaluate specific features to ensure that the unit meets your needs. The following factors should play a significant role in your decision:
1. Grilling Area Size
The cooking surface area is a key factor to consider when choosing the best smoker grill combo. A larger grilling surface allows you to cook more food at once, which is especially important for families or those who entertain frequently. Look for models with a grilling area of at least 500 square inches, which should be sufficient for most casual cookouts.
2. Smoking Chamber Size
The smoking chamber should be large enough to hold multiple racks of meat if you plan on cooking in bulk. The size of the smoking chamber also impacts the cooking temperature and airflow, both of which are critical for low-and-slow cooking. Ideally, the smoker chamber should be made from thick, durable material that retains heat well.
3. Temperature Control
The best smoker grill combos should allow for precise temperature control. A good temperature gauge will ensure that your grill stays within the desired range, whether you’re grilling at high heat or smoking at a low, consistent temperature. Some models come with digital controls or adjustable dampers to regulate airflow, which in turn helps control the temperature.
4. Fuel Source
Smoker grill combos come in different fuel types, such as charcoal, wood pellets, and propane. Charcoal and wood pellet smokers offer a more authentic flavor, while propane models tend to heat up faster and provide more consistent temperature control. Hybrid models, which allow you to use both charcoal and gas or pellets, offer versatility, letting you choose the best fuel source for different cooking tasks.
5. Build Quality and Durability
Durability is essential for outdoor cooking appliances, especially when exposed to the elements. Look for smoker grill combos made from high-quality, rust-resistant materials such as stainless steel or heavy-duty steel. Thick, insulated walls will help retain heat, while a sturdy lid ensures that the cooking temperature stays stable.
6. Ease of Use and Maintenance
A smoker grill combo should be easy to assemble, use, and clean. Look for models with features like easy-to-adjust grates, removable ashtrays, and grease management systems that minimize the mess. Some models come with easy-to-read thermometers or digital controls, which simplify temperature management.
7. Versatility and Additional Features
Some smoker grill combos come with extra features such as side shelves, storage cabinets, or built-in thermometers. While these extras may not be necessary, they can enhance the overall user experience and make your cooking sessions more convenient.
Top Smoker Grill Combos of 2024
Now that we know what to look for, let’s take a closer look at some of the best smoker grill combos on the market, considering their features, performance, and price-performance ratio.
1. Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker
Overview:
The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker is a popular choice for those who want a versatile grill and smoker in one. This kamado-style unit offers excellent heat retention, making it ideal for both grilling and smoking. It’s a charcoal-powered smoker that can achieve high grilling temperatures as well as maintain low, consistent temperatures for smoking.
Features:
Grilling Area: 447 square inches
Smoking Chamber: 314 square inches
Material: Heavy-duty steel with a porcelain coating for better heat retention
Temperature Control: Adjustable dampers for precise control
Fuel Source: Charcoal
Additional Features: Side shelves for prep space, built-in thermometer, removable ash pan for easy cleanup
Pros:
Excellent heat retention thanks to its insulated design
Offers both grilling and smoking capabilities
Versatile and durable construction
Relatively affordable compared to other kamado-style smokers
Cons:
Can be difficult to control temperature for beginners
Charcoal is required, which might not be as convenient as propane or pellet models
Verdict:
For kamado-style grilling and smoking, the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker offers great value for money. It’s durable, versatile, and perfect for those who enjoy the smoky flavor that charcoal provides.
2. Traeger Pro 780 Pellet Grill and Smoker
Overview:
The Traeger Pro 780 is a top-of-the-line pellet grill that offers a great blend of smoking and grilling. Using wood pellets as fuel, it delivers excellent flavor and precise temperature control, making it a favorite among seasoned grillers and smokers.
Features:
Grilling Area: 780 square inches
Smoking Chamber: Integrated within the entire cooking space
Material: Stainless steel construction for durability
Temperature Control: Digital Pro Controller with Precision Temperature Control
Fuel Source: Wood pellets
Additional Features: Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control via the Traeger app, built-in meat probe, ample storage
Pros:
Easy to use with digital temperature control and Wi-Fi capabilities
Consistent results with wood pellet smoking and grilling
Large cooking area suitable for larger groups
Built-in meat probe for precise cooking
Cons:
Higher price point compared to charcoal or gas smokers
Pellet refills can be a hassle for long cooking sessions
Verdict:
The Traeger Pro 780 is ideal for those looking for ease of use, precision, and consistent smoking results. While it’s on the pricier side, its convenience and performance make it a strong contender for serious grilling and smoking enthusiasts.
3. Weber SmokeFire EX6 (2nd Gen) Wood Fired Pellet Grill
Overview:
Weber’s SmokeFire EX6 is another excellent wood-pellet option, designed for both smoking and grilling. Known for its high-quality construction and ease of use, this smoker is perfect for those who want to experiment with wood-fired cooking.
Features:
Grilling Area: 1,008 square inches
Smoking Chamber: Full grilling area with dedicated smoking options
Material: Stainless steel and porcelain-enameled steel for durability
Temperature Control: Weber Connect smart grilling technology for remote monitoring and alerts
Fuel Source: Wood pellets
Additional Features: Large storage shelf, dual-zone cooking for different temperatures
Pros:
Large cooking area ideal for large families or gatherings
Built-in smart technology for ease of use and monitoring
High heat range for both grilling and smoking
Durable and easy to clean
Cons:
Expensive compared to other pellet grills
Requires wood pellets, which may not be convenient for some users
Verdict:
The Weber SmokeFire EX6 is a premium pellet grill that combines versatility with smart technology. If you’re willing to invest in a top-tier smoker grill combo, this model offers excellent performance and a large cooking area.
4. Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D Dual Fuel Smoker
Overview:
The Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D is a dual-fuel smoker that allows you to switch between charcoal and propane. It’s ideal for those who want versatility, as it offers the authentic smoky flavor of charcoal with the convenience of propane for quick grilling sessions.
Features:
Grilling Area: 1,032 square inches
Smoking Chamber: 732 square inches
Material: Heavy-duty steel construction
Temperature Control: Dual-temperature zones for smoking and grilling
Fuel Source: Dual-fuel (charcoal and propane)
Additional Features: Multiple adjustable grates, built-in thermometer
Pros:
Dual-fuel option provides flexibility for different cooking needs
Large cooking space
High-quality build for longevity
Easy to switch between fuel sources
Cons:
Can be challenging to control temperature with dual-fuel setup
Propane tank not included
Verdict:
The Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D is an excellent choice for those who want flexibility in their cooking. It’s perfect for beginners or experienced cooks who want to experiment with both charcoal and propane.
Conclusion
The best smoker grill combo depends on your specific needs—whether you prioritize cooking space, ease of use, or versatility in fuel sources. For those who want simplicity and a traditional smoking experience, charcoal models like the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker are great choices. However, if you’re willing to invest in a top-tier, smart technology-driven grill, the Traeger Pro 780 or Weber SmokeFire EX6 are excellent options.
Ultimately, choosing the right smoker grill combo comes down to balancing your budget, cooking preferences, and desired features. By considering these factors, you can find the perfect combo for your next backyard BBQ.
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