If you love both grilling and smoking, you might be wondering if you can have the best of both worlds with a single device. The answer is yes, you can! A smoker grill combo is a versatile appliance that lets you cook your food in different ways, from searing steaks to smoking briskets.
But how do you choose the best smoker grill combo for your needs? There are many factors to consider, such as the fuel type, the size, the features, and the price. To help you out, we have reviewed 7 of the best smoker grill combos on the market and provided some tips on how to use them effectively.
By the end of this article, you will have a clear idea of what to look for in a smoker grill combo and which one suits your budget and preferences. Let’s get started!
What is a Smoker Grill Combo and How Does It Work?
A smoker grill combo is a device that can function as both a grill and a smoker, depending on how you set it up. A grill is used to cook food quickly over high heat, creating char marks and caramelization on the surface. A smoker is used to cook food slowly over low heat, imparting smoke flavor and tenderness to the meat.
A smoker grill combo can switch between these two modes by adjusting the temperature, the airflow, and the fuel source. For example, a charcoal smoker grill combo can use more or less charcoal, open or close the vents, and add or remove wood chips to control the heat and smoke level. A pellet smoker grill combo can use a digital controller to set the desired temperature and feed wood pellets into a firebox to create heat and smoke.
The main advantage of a smoker grill combo is that it gives you more options and flexibility to cook different types of food. You can grill burgers, hot dogs, chicken, and vegetables for a quick and easy meal, or you can smoke ribs, brisket, pork shoulder, and salmon for a more flavorful and tender result. You can also combine both methods by searing the meat on the grill first and then finishing it in the smoker for a crusty exterior and a juicy interior.
What are the Benefits of Using a Smoker Grill Combo?
Using a smoker grill combo has many benefits, such as:
- Saving space: Instead of having two separate devices, you only need one that can do both jobs. This is especially useful if you have a small backyard or patio, or if you want to take your smoker grill combo on camping trips or tailgating parties.
- Saving money: Buying one device that can do both jobs is cheaper than buying two separate devices. You also save on fuel costs, as you only need one type of fuel for both grilling and smoking.
- Saving time: You don’t have to switch between different devices or wait for them to heat up or cool down. You can easily switch from grilling to smoking or vice versa with a few simple adjustments.
- Improving flavor: You can enhance the flavor of your food by using different types of wood chips, pellets, or chunks to create different smoke profiles. You can also experiment with different rubs, marinades, sauces, and seasonings to add more layers of flavor to your food.
- Improving health: Smoking food is a healthier way of cooking than frying or roasting, as it reduces the amount of fat and oil in the food. Smoking also preserves more nutrients and moisture in the food than other methods. Grilling food can also be healthy if you use lean cuts of meat and avoid charring or burning the food.
What are the Different Types of Smoker Grill Combos?
There are different types of smoker grill combos based on the fuel source they use. The most common types are:
- Charcoal smoker grill combos: These use charcoal as the main fuel source and wood chips, chunks, or logs as the secondary fuel source for smoke. They are usually cheaper than other types, but they require more attention and skill to maintain a consistent temperature and smoke level. They also produce more ash and smoke than other types, which can be messy and inconvenient.
- Pellet smoker grill combos: These use wood pellets as the main fuel source for both heat and smoke. They are usually more expensive than other types, but they are easier to use and control. They have digital controllers that allow you to set the desired temperature and automatically feed pellets into a firebox. They also produce less ash and smoke than other types, which makes them cleaner and more environmentally friendly.
- Gas smoker grill combos: These use propane or natural gas as the main fuel source for heat and wood chips or chunks as the secondary fuel source for smoke. They are usually more expensive than charcoal types, but cheaper than pellet types. They are also easier to use and control than charcoal types, as they have knobs or buttons that allow you to adjust the temperature and flame. They produce less ash and smoke than charcoal types, but more than pellet types.
There are also other types of smoker grill combos that use electric power, infrared heat, or hybrid fuel sources, but they are less common and popular than the ones mentioned above.
What are the Features to Look for When Buying the Best Smoker Grill Combo?
When buying a smoker grill combo, you should look for these features:
- Size: The size of the smoker grill combo determines how much food you can cook at once and how much space it takes up in your backyard or patio. You should choose a size that matches your cooking needs and your available space. Generally speaking, larger sizes offer more cooking capacity and versatility, but they also cost more and take up more space.
- Temperature range: The temperature range of the smoker grill combo determines how well it can perform both grilling and smoking functions. You should look for a temperature range that covers both high heat for searing and low heat for smoking. Generally speaking, higher temperature ranges offer more grilling options and faster cooking times, but they also consume more fuel and may dry out the food.
- Temperature control: The temperature control of the smoker grill combo determines how easy it is to set and maintain the desired temperature for grilling or smoking. You should look for a temperature control that is accurate, reliable, and user-friendly. Generally speaking, digital controllers offer more precision and convenience than manual controllers, but they also cost more and require electricity or batteries.
- Cooking area: The cooking area of the smoker grill combo determines how much food you can cook at once and how you can arrange it on the grates. You should look for a cooking area that is large enough to accommodate your food and has enough space between the grates and the heat source. Generally speaking, larger cooking areas offer more flexibility and efficiency, but they also require more fuel and cleaning.
- Cooking grates: The cooking grates of the smoker grill combo determine how well the food is cooked and how easy it is to clean. You should look for cooking grates that are made of durable and non-stick materials, such as cast iron, stainless steel, or porcelain-coated steel. Generally speaking, heavier and thicker cooking grates offer better heat retention and distribution, but they also take longer to heat up and cool down.
- Hopper capacity: The hopper capacity of the smoker grill combo determines how long you can cook without refilling the fuel source. This feature only applies to pellet smoker grill combos, as they have a hopper that stores and feeds wood pellets into the firebox. You should look for a hopper capacity that matches your cooking duration and frequency. Generally speaking, larger hopper capacities offer more convenience and autonomy, but they also add more weight and bulk to the device.
- Additional features: The additional features of the smoker grill combo determine how much functionality and convenience it offers beyond the basic grilling and smoking functions. Some of these features include:
- Thermometer: A thermometer is a device that measures and displays the temperature inside the smoker grill combo. It helps you monitor and adjust the temperature as needed for optimal cooking results. Some thermometers are built-in, while others are wireless or remote-controlled.
- Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity: Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity is a feature that allows you to control and monitor the smoker grill combo from your smartphone or tablet. It lets you adjust the temperature, set timers, receive alerts, and access recipes and tips from anywhere within range. Some devices have their own apps, while others are compatible with third-party apps.
- Sear box or side burner: A sear box or side burner is a feature that adds an extra heating element to the smoker grill combo. It lets you sear meat at high temperatures for a crusty exterior and a juicy interior, or cook side dishes such as sauces, soups, or vegetables. Some devices have an integrated sear box or side burner, while others have an optional attachment.
- Ash catcher or grease tray: An ash catcher or grease tray is a feature that collects the ash from the charcoal or wood pellets, or the grease from the food. It makes it easier to clean and dispose of the waste after cooking. Some devices have removable or disposable ash catchers or grease trays, while others have built-in or fixed ones.
How to Use and Maintain a Smoker Grill Combo?
Using and maintaining a smoker grill combo is not very difficult, but it does require some attention and care. Here are some tips on how to use and maintain a smoker grill combo:
- Before using your smoker grill combo for the first time, read the manual carefully and follow the instructions for assembly, seasoning, and safety precautions.
- Before each use, check the fuel level, clean the cooking grates, preheat the device, and set up your food on the grates.
- During use, monitor the temperature, adjust the airflow or pellet feed as needed, add more fuel or wood chips if necessary, rotate or flip your food occasionally, and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
- After each use, let the device cool down completely, empty the ash catcher or grease tray, scrape off any residue from the cooking grates, wipe down any spills or stains from the exterior, and cover or store your device in a dry place.
- Periodically inspect your device for any signs of damage or wear and tear, such as cracks, rust, leaks, loose parts, or faulty components. If you find any problems, contact the manufacturer or a qualified technician for repair or replacement.
7 Best Smoker Grill Combos
Now that you know what to look for in a smoker grill combo and how to use and maintain it, let’s take a look at some of the best smoker grill combos on the market.
We have selected 7 models based on their performance, quality, features, and customer reviews. We have also included a pros and cons table for each model to help you compare them easily.
1. Weber SmokeFire Gen 2 Wood Fired Pellet Grill
The Weber SmokeFire Gen 2 Wood Fired Pellet Grill is one of the best pellet smoker grill combos on the market. It has a large cooking area of 1,008 square inches, divided into two grates. It has a wide temperature range of 200°F to 600°F, which allows you to grill, smoke, bake, roast, and sear with ease. It has a digital controller that lets you set the temperature and monitor the cooking progress from your smartphone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. It also has a large hopper capacity of 22 pounds, which can last for up to 15 hours of cooking.
The Weber SmokeFire Gen 2 Wood Fired Pellet Grill is designed to deliver consistent and even heat and smoke throughout the cooking chamber. It has a unique flavorizer bar system that catches and vaporizes the drippings from the food, creating more smoke and flavor. It also has a grease management system that prevents flare-ups and makes cleaning easier. It comes with a porcelain-enamel finish that resists rust and corrosion, and a heavy-duty steel cart that provides stability and storage.
The Weber SmokeFire Gen 2 Wood Fired Pellet Grill is ideal for anyone who wants a versatile and easy-to-use smoker grill combo that can handle any type of food. It is backed by a 3-year warranty and a reputation for quality and durability.
| Pros | Cons |
| Large cooking area | Expensive |
| Wide temperature range | Some assembly required |
| Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity | Some reports of software glitches |
| Flavorizer bar system | Some reports of pellet jams |
| Grease management system |
2. Kamado Joe Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill
The Kamado Joe Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill is one of the best charcoal smoker grill combos on the market. It has a cooking area of 406 square inches, which can fit up to 10 chicken breasts or three racks of ribs. It has a temperature range of 225°F to 750°F, which allows you to grill, smoke, bake, roast, and sear with ease. It has a patented air lift hinge that makes opening and closing the lid effortless. It also has a patented divide and conquer cooking system that lets you cook different foods at different temperatures and heights.
The Kamado Joe Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill is made of high-quality ceramic that provides excellent insulation and heat retention. It has a top vent that controls the airflow and temperature, and a bottom vent that controls the charcoal burn rate. It also has a built-in thermometer that displays the internal temperature, and an ash drawer that makes cleaning easier. It comes with a stainless steel cart that provides mobility and storage.
The Kamado Joe Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill is ideal for anyone who wants a versatile and durable smoker grill combo that can produce amazing results with charcoal and wood. It is backed by a lifetime warranty on ceramic parts and a reputation for customer service.
| Pros | Cons |
| High-quality ceramic construction | Expensive |
| Patented air lift hinge | Heavy |
| Patented divide and conquer cooking system | Requires heat deflector accessory for smoking |
| Built-in thermometer | Requires learning curve for temperature control |
| Ash drawer |
3. Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo Charcoal/Gas Smoker & Grill
The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo Charcoal/Gas Smoker & Grill is one of the best gas smoker grill combos on the market. It has a total cooking area of 1,060 square inches, divided into three chambers: a gas grill chamber, a charcoal grill chamber, and an offset firebox chamber. The gas grill chamber has three burners that produce 36,000 BTUs of heat, while the charcoal grill chamber has an adjustable height grate that lets you control the heat level. The offset firebox chamber can be used as a side burner or as a smoker with wood chips or chunks.
The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo Charcoal/Gas Smoker & Grill is made of heavy-gauge steel that provides durability and heat retention. It has multiple dampers that control the airflow and temperature in each chamber, and multiple thermometers that display the internal temperature in each chamber. It also has large wheels that provide mobility and stability, and storage shelves that provide convenience and space.
The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo Charcoal/Gas Smoker & Grill is ideal for anyone who wants a versatile and powerful smoker grill combo that can use both gas and charcoal as fuel sources. It is backed by a 2-year warranty and a reputation for quality and performance.
| Pros | Cons |
| Large cooking area | Expensive |
| Three chambers for gas, charcoal, and smoking | Heavy |
| Multiple dampers and thermometers | Requires assembly |
| Heavy-gauge steel construction | Requires regular cleaning and seasoning |
| Large wheels and storage shelves |
4. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 Charcoal Grill And Smoker Black
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 Charcoal Grill And Smoker Black is one of the best charcoal smoker grill combos on the market. It has a cooking area of 560 square inches, which can fit up to 16 burgers or four racks of ribs. It has a temperature range of 150°F to 700°F, which allows you to grill, smoke, bake, roast, and sear with ease. It has a digital controller that lets you set the temperature and monitor the cooking progress from your smartphone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. It also has a gravity-fed hopper that holds up to 10 pounds of charcoal, which can last for up to 12 hours of cooking.
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 Charcoal Grill And Smoker Black is designed to deliver consistent and even heat and smoke throughout the cooking chamber. It has a fan that pushes the perfect amount of air to maintain the desired temperature, and a reversible cast iron grate that lets you choose between a searing or smoking side. It also has a grease management system that prevents flare-ups and makes cleaning easier. It comes with a folding stainless steel shelf that provides convenience and space.
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 Charcoal Grill And Smoker Black is ideal for anyone who wants a versatile and easy-to-use smoker grill combo that can produce amazing results with charcoal. It is backed by a 1-year warranty and a reputation for innovation and quality.
| Pros | Cons |
| Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity | Expensive |
| Gravity-fed hopper | Some assembly required |
| Digital controller | Some reports of software glitches |
| Reversible cast iron grate | Some reports of hopper jams |
| Grease management system |
5. Camp Chef SmokePro SG 24 Deluxe Pellet Grill with optional Sear Box
The Camp Chef SmokePro SG 24 Deluxe Pellet Grill with optional Sear Box is one of the best pellet smoker grill combos on the market. It has a cooking area of 811 square inches, which can fit up to 20 burgers or six racks of ribs. It has a temperature range of 160°F to 500°F, which allows you to grill, smoke, bake, roast, and sear with ease. It has a digital controller that lets you set the temperature and choose from different smoke settings, from low to high. It also has a large hopper capacity of 22 pounds, which can last for up to 18 hours of cooking.
The Camp Chef SmokePro SG 24 Deluxe Pellet Grill with optional Sear Box is designed to deliver consistent and even heat and smoke throughout the cooking chamber. It has a patented ash cleanout system that makes cleaning easier, and a pellet purge system that makes changing pellets easier. It also has a dual meat probe thermometer that displays the internal temperature of your food, and a warming rack that keeps your food warm until serving. It comes with an optional sear box attachment that adds an extra heating element to the smoker grill combo. It lets you sear meat at high temperatures up to 900°F for a crusty exterior and a juicy interior.
The Camp Chef SmokePro SG 24 Deluxe Pellet Grill with optional Sear Box is ideal for anyone who wants a versatile and convenient smoker grill combo that can handle any type of food. It is backed by a 3-year warranty and a reputation for reliability and customer service.
| Pros | Cons |
| Large cooking area | Expensive |
| Optional sear box attachment | Sear box sold separately |
| Digital controller with smoke settings | Requires electricity or batteries |
| Patented ash cleanout system | Requires regular cleaning and maintenance |
| Dual meat probe thermometer |
6. Z GRILLS – 550A Wood Pellet Grill And Smoker – Black
The Z GRILLS – 550A Wood Pellet Grill And Smoker – Black is one of the best pellet smoker grill combos on the market. It has a cooking area of 590 square inches, which can fit up to 15 burgers or five racks of ribs. It has a temperature range of 180°F to 450°F, which allows you to grill, smoke, bake, roast, and sear with ease. It has a digital controller that lets you set the temperature and monitor the cooking progress from your smartphone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. It also has a large hopper capacity of 15 pounds, which can last for up to 10 hours of cooking.
The Z GRILLS – 550A Wood Pellet Grill And Smoker – Black is designed to deliver consistent and even heat and smoke throughout the cooking chamber. It has a fan-forced convection system that eliminates the need for a rotisserie, and a pellet feed system that automatically adjusts the pellet feed rate to maintain the desired temperature. It also has a grease bucket that collects the drippings from the food, and a stainless steel lid that resists rust and corrosion. It comes with a foldable working shelf that provides convenience and space.
The Z GRILLS – 550A Wood Pellet Grill And Smoker – Black is ideal for anyone who wants a versatile and smart smoker grill combo that can produce amazing results with wood pellets. It is backed by a 3-year warranty and a reputation for quality and affordability.
| Pros | Cons |
| Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity | Expensive |
| Fan-forced convection system | Some assembly required |
| Pellet feed system | Some reports of software glitches |
| Grease bucket | Some reports of temperature fluctuations |
| Foldable working shelf |
7. Royal Gourmet 30″ CC1830F Charcoal Grill With Offset Smoker
The Royal Gourmet 30″ CC1830F Charcoal Grill With Offset Smoker is one of the best charcoal smoker grill combos on the market. It has a cooking area of 800 square inches, divided into two chambers: a main grill chamber and an offset smoker chamber. The main grill chamber has an adjustable charcoal pan that lets you control the heat level, while the offset smoker chamber has a side door that lets you add charcoal or wood chips easily. The offset smoker chamber can also be used as a side burner or as a warming rack.
The Royal Gourmet 30″ CC1830F Charcoal Grill With Offset Smoker is made of heavy-duty steel that provides durability and heat retention. It has two dampers that control the airflow and temperature in each chamber, and two thermometers that display the internal temperature in each chamber. It also has two wheels that provide mobility and stability, and two storage shelves that provide convenience and space.
The Royal Gourmet 30″ CC1830F Charcoal Grill With Offset Smoker is ideal for anyone who wants a versatile and budget-friendly smoker grill combo that can use both charcoal and wood as fuel sources. It is backed by a 1-year warranty and a reputation for customer satisfaction.
| Pros | Cons |
| Large cooking area | Cheap |
| Adjustable charcoal pan | Heavy |
| Offset smoker chamber | Requires assembly |
| Two dampers and thermometers | Requires regular cleaning and seasoning |
| Two wheels and storage shelves |
How to Choose the Best Smoker Grill Combo for Your Needs?
Choosing the best smoker grill combo for your needs depends on several factors, such as:
- Your budget: The price of smoker grill combos varies depending on the type, size, features, and quality of the device. You should set a realistic budget that matches your expectations and needs. Generally speaking, you get what you pay for, so don’t skimp on quality or performance for a lower price.
- Your space: The size of smoker grill combos varies depending on the cooking area, hopper capacity, cart design, and additional features of the device. You should measure your available space in your backyard or patio and choose a size that fits comfortably without compromising safety or convenience.
- Your cooking style: The type of smoker grill combos varies depending on the fuel source, temperature range, cooking grates, and additional features of the device. You should consider your cooking style and preferences and choose a type that suits your needs. For example, if you like to experiment with different flavors and smoke profiles, you might prefer a charcoal or pellet type over a gas type.
- Your cooking frequency: The maintenance of smoker grill combos varies depending on the fuel source, ash catcher or grease tray, cooking grates, and additional features of the device. You should consider your cooking frequency and availability and choose a device that requires less or more maintenance accordingly. For example, if you cook often and have time to spare, you might not mind cleaning and seasoning a charcoal type more than a gas or pellet type.
Conclusion
A smoker grill combo is a great device that lets you enjoy both grilling and smoking with one appliance. It can save you space, money, time, and flavor, as well as improve your health and satisfaction. However, not all smoker grill combos are created equal, so you need to do some research and comparison before buying one.
In this article, we have reviewed 7 of the best smoker grill combos on the market, based on their performance, quality, features, and customer reviews. We have also provided some tips on how to use and maintain a smoker grill combo, as well as how to choose the best one for your needs.
We hope this article helped you find the best smoker grill combo for your needs. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Happy grilling and smoking!
FAQs on the Best Smoker Grill Combo
Here are some frequently asked questions about smoker grill combos:
- Q: What is the difference between a smoker and a grill?
- A: A smoker is a device that cooks food slowly over low heat, imparting smoke flavor and tenderness to the meat. A grill is a device that cooks food quickly over high heat, creating char marks and caramelization on the surface.
- A: A smoker is a device that cooks food slowly over low heat, imparting smoke flavor and tenderness to the meat. A grill is a device that cooks food quickly over high heat, creating char marks and caramelization on the surface.
- Q: Can I use a grill as a smoker or vice versa?
- A: Yes, you can use a grill as a smoker or vice versa, but you may need to make some modifications or adjustments to achieve optimal results. For example, you may need to add a water pan, a heat deflector, or a smoke box to your grill to create more smoke and moisture. You may also need to lower the temperature, reduce the airflow, or add more fuel to your smoker to create more heat and sear.
- A: Yes, you can use a grill as a smoker or vice versa, but you may need to make some modifications or adjustments to achieve optimal results. For example, you may need to add a water pan, a heat deflector, or a smoke box to your grill to create more smoke and moisture. You may also need to lower the temperature, reduce the airflow, or add more fuel to your smoker to create more heat and sear.
- Q: What are the best types of wood for smoking?
- A: The best types of wood for smoking depend on your personal preference and the type of food you are cooking. Generally speaking, hardwoods such as oak, hickory, mesquite, and apple are good choices for smoking, as they produce more heat and smoke than softwoods. You can also mix different types of wood to create different smoke profiles and flavors.
- A: The best types of wood for smoking depend on your personal preference and the type of food you are cooking. Generally speaking, hardwoods such as oak, hickory, mesquite, and apple are good choices for smoking, as they produce more heat and smoke than softwoods. You can also mix different types of wood to create different smoke profiles and flavors.
- Q: How long does it take to smoke food?
- A: The time it takes to smoke food depends on several factors, such as the type of food, the size of the food, the temperature of the smoker, and the desired doneness of the food. Generally speaking, smoking food takes longer than grilling food, as it requires lower temperatures and slower cooking times. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your food and determine when it is done.
- A: The time it takes to smoke food depends on several factors, such as the type of food, the size of the food, the temperature of the smoker, and the desired doneness of the food. Generally speaking, smoking food takes longer than grilling food, as it requires lower temperatures and slower cooking times. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your food and determine when it is done.
- Q: How do I clean and season my smoker grill combo?
- A: Cleaning and seasoning your smoker grill combo is important to maintain its performance and prevent rust and corrosion. You should clean your smoker grill combo after each use by removing any ash or grease from the cooking grates, ash catcher or grease tray, firebox or hopper, and exterior. You should also season your smoker grill combo before each use by coating it with cooking oil and heating it up for about an hour. This will create a protective layer that prevents sticking and rusting.
- A: Cleaning and seasoning your smoker grill combo is important to maintain its performance and prevent rust and corrosion. You should clean your smoker grill combo after each use by removing any ash or grease from the cooking grates, ash catcher or grease tray, firebox or hopper, and exterior. You should also season your smoker grill combo before each use by coating it with cooking oil and heating it up for about an hour. This will create a protective layer that prevents sticking and rusting.
