Vertical smokers are very efficient smokers and ensure maximum trapping of heat to give nice smoked meat. They can hold more food and trap more heat than other smokers. Thus good quality vertical smokers have highly sought after.
Are you trying to find a good vertical smoker that’s used to make real barbecue as well as foods like pastrami, kebabs, smoked jerky, as well as smoked barbecue meatloaf? These hot vertical smokers can be found in lots of shapes and dimensions as well as can be powered by a wide array of fuels. Here is what to think about when you begin shopping for a smoker.
How to choose the Best Vertical Smoker?
Price of a Food Vertical Smoker
The cost of a single vertical smoker can start from 50$ and easily go up to 10,000$. If you aren’t going to use it heavily, you might want to start with a tiny vertical water smoker. You can make good barbecue in these smokers, as well as for numerous individuals, it is the only smoker they require, however, there is a whole lot even more to smokers than these simple devices.
Vertical Smokers by Fuel Type
Smokers can be sustained by charcoal, wood, power, wood pellets, or propane. There are benefits (as well as some disadvantages) to these various fuels:
Charcoal smokers
Charcoal and also wood smokers are a lot more typical as well as usually give an even more genuine flavor to your food preparation. The most affordable smokers on the marketplace are typically charcoal, but several of the most costly use of charcoal too.
Electric smokers
Electric smokers are the most convenient, but numerous lack the genuine smoky taste. Computer-controlled electric smokers permit you to begin the smoker and let it run up until the food is all set.
Pellet smokers
Pellet smokers are electrically powered yet burn wood pellets to supply heat and smoke. These units can be as convenient as an electric smoker, however, they offer you the taste of the most effective charcoal/hardwood smokers.
Propane smokers
Propane smokers normally heat up much faster and also much easier than electric smokers but are still easy to utilize.
Features of the Vertical Smoker:
Depending upon the rate you can get a smoker that gives a fantastic barbecue with extremely little effort. One question you want to answer is just how involved do you intend to remain in the process. BBQ is a lengthy as well as the worthy tradition of individuals sitting by the fire making excellent food. Do you wish to establish it and also forget it or do you wish to take an energetic component in the food you prepare? Look for the electronic or computer system control attributes that might automate several of the processes for you.
Size of the Vertical Smoker
The smallest smokers can create adequate food for a huge family (perhaps as lots of as 20 individuals). The largest smokers make enough barbecue to cater to a celebration all day. It is essential that you think about just how much barbecue you desire to make prior to you buy. If you are only going to be smoking for the family on the weekend, then a little unit will certainly suffice. If you intend to have the ability to smoke for the company party, you will certainly require a lot more room. Many smokers will certainly inform you how much food you can prepare. As a basic policy of thumb, you need one pound of meat (raw) per person. That can indicate a great deal of food.
Versatility
There are a number of systems on the market that can smoke and also grill. If you intend to be able to have the best of both worlds, then these are the devices for you. Charcoal units, like the Big Green Egg, are the most usual of this kind of multipurpose smoker. While much of the lower-priced units will guarantee this feature, you should understand that it takes an excellent design to be both a great grill and a good smoker. The majority of the cheaper models do one or the other well, however not both.
Brands:
While you might not acknowledge the names stamped on lots of smokers, you should consider the business that creates the smoker you intend to buy. There are a number of common generic systems that are store brand names. These devices offer no future of solution or assistance. When you locate a smoker that looks excellent to you, study the smoker reviews from users and experts.
Top 10 Best Vertical Smokers 2020 – Reviews & Features
Keeping all the above points in mind, we have selected the ten best vertical smokers that are valued for money and deliver great performance as well. Here they are-
1. Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS681VCS-D
The Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS681VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Charcoal Smoker is a well built heavy-duty smoker is a popular grill and very durable. It has a charcoal management system that controls the flame and ensures even cooking.
Key Features
- Features three chrome-plated cooking grates
- 681 square inches of cooking area
- Heavy-Gauge Steel Body Construction
- Cool-touch spring door handle
- Charcoal & Ash Management System
- Temperature gauge
- Gigantic wheels
Product Review and Description
The Dyna-Glo Signature Series Vertical Charcoal Smoker is a very well built grill that uses the highest quality materials. Its body is made from heavy gauge steel and is sturdy, to say the least. It has three chrome plated cooking grates with a spacious area of 681 sq. inches that is more than enough for all kinds of meats. It is built ideally to capture the maximum smoke flavor.
The coal and ash management system are very user-friendly as it handles huge amounts of ash for a long duration of time and the steel ash pan itself is removable. This ensures hassle-free cooking with minimal maintenance. It has a high capacity steel water bowl that controls cooking temperature and minimizes evaporation. Its analog temperature gauge has indicators labeled as ‘Grill Zone’ and ‘Smoke Zone’ to further help you. Its Cool-touch spring handle gives you safety. It also has over sized wheels for greater portability and easy transportation.
- Well built
- Compact and portable
- Charcoal and ash management system
- Easy assembly
- Thermometer not up to the mark
- Access to the top rack is limiting
2. Best Choice Products 43in 3-Piece Outdoor BBQ Charcoal Vertical Design Smoker
The Best Choice Products 3-Piece Outdoor BBQ Charcoal Vertical Smoker is a small and compact smoker that is easy to use and portable. It is ideal for a quick BBQ in your backyard or while camping.
Key Features
- 43-inch grill
- 2 large cooking racks, a lower rack for charcoal, and a water bowl
- Air vents on top and bottom
- Thermometer built in
- Overall Dimensions: 42.5”(H) x 18.4”(Dia)
Product Review and Description
The Best Choice Products 3-Piece Outdoor BBQ Charcoal Vertical Smoker is a very compact and lightweight grill, clocking in at just 30lbs. It is popular for its portability and you can take it anywhere with you. The 43inch grill comes with two cooking racks, a charcoal rack, and a water bowl. Its design is a 3 piece design that saves space and makes it more portable. It has three sturdy steel legs to support it. It has two air vents, one on top and one on the bottom.
These ensure the proper free flow of air so that the heat is evenly distributed inside the smoker. It also has a thermometer built on to its main lid for greater heat control. Its latched base gives quick and easy access to the charcoal. It has a horizontal door that hinges to let you manage the cooking rack or refill the water bowl as needed. This smoker is perfect for anyone looking for a smaller vertical smoker that still gets the job done very well. It has a nice efficient design and is easily transportable.
- Lightweight and portable
- Efficient 3 piece design
- Easy to install and use
- Value for money
- Needs minor adjustments for perfect use
- Lanky handle
3. Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill
The Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill is a multi-functional smoker that offers you the best smoking and grilling facility. It is really spacious and loaded with really useful features.
Key Features
- Five chrome-plated cooking grates
- Total cooking space of 1382 square inches
- Heavy-Gauge Steel Body Construction.
- Temperature gauge, cool to touch handles
- Cool-touch spring lid grip
- Oversized steel wheels
Product Review and Description
The Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill is a multi-functional smoker that boasts a massive cooking space of 1382 square inches. It has five chrome plated cooking grates that can easily accommodate more than 100 lbs. of meats. It also comes pre installed with sausage hooks which ensure an even wider cooking flexibility. Its body is built with heavy gauge steel and it is thus very strong and durable.
Its Cool-Touch spring handles assure that you access your food safely. It has removable offset charcoal grate and ash pan that gives quick, simple access to tend coal and also quick, easy disposal of ash. It comes with a built-in analogue temperate gauge that indicates ideal cooking temperatures for grilling and smoking. For portability, it comes with oversized wheels. The Dyna-Glo Signature Series Vertial smoker is a no-nonsense smoker that has everything you are looking for in a smoker and griller.
- High quality sturdy durable build
- Very spacious
- Good value for money
- Easy and quick disposal of ash
- Thin steel construction
4. Masterbuilt 20060516 Vertical Charcoal Smoker
The Masterbuilt 20060516 Vertical Charcoal Smoker is a smoker that has comparatively lesser space compared to other smokers but it has been engineered to last for a lifetime. It is ideal for a family dinner and can handle up to 50 lb. of food.
Key Features
- Two chrome-coated cooking grates
- Porcelain-coated charcoal pan and water bowl
- Dual-door design
- Grease cup for easy clean-up
- Temperature gauge
- Side air dampers
Product Review and Description
The Masterbuilt 20060516 Vertical Charcoal Smoker is a compact, high quality smoker that is very durable and one of the easiest smokers to use. It comes with two chrome coated cooking grates that can handle up to 50lbs. of food, which is ideal for a family dinner or a small gathering. This is built to last and has a very durable, yet simple design.
It has a dual door design, one for the food compartment and the other for the charcoal compartment. Thus, this makes it easier to tend the coal and avoid any mishaps. It comes with a grease cup that results in a hassle-free clean-up. This also has a built-in temperature gauge which allows you to see how hot your food is for greater heat control. It comes with side air dampers for increased free flow of air that allows better smoking of meat inside the grill.
- Sturdy and durable
- Value for money
- Great sliding rack
- Easy to install and use
- Thin on the sides
- Vents need adjustment
5. Cuisinart Vertical Charcoal Smoker
The Cuisinart Vertical Charcoal Smoker is one of the most popular smokers in the market. It has ample space given its compact space and great features which make it a valuable buy.
Key Features
- Two 18 inches solid stainless steel cooking grates
- 512 square inches of cooking space,
- Comes with a waterproof kettle cover
- Temperature gauge
- Dual air vent system
- Latching base
- Vertical hinge door
Product Review and Description
The Cuisinart Vertical Charcoal Smoker is a compact and durable smoker that features two 18 inch solid stainless steel cooking racks. It’s ideal for camping or small BBQ gatherings. Its 512 sq. inches space is ample for most of your cooking needs. The vertical design insures a consistent temperature and even heat distribution. The vertical hinge door makes it easy to access the porcelain enamel water bowl and the charcoal.
It comes with a temperature gauge inbuilt for heat control. It is easy to clean and easy to maintain. Assembling it takes no more than 15 minutes. Its dual air vent system makes sure your food gets the best smoky flavour. It also has a latching base for further convenience. The Cuisinart Vertical Charcoal Smoker is your ideal camping partner owing to its lightweight compact design. It is very easy to use and maintain.
- Solid durable build
- Ceramic enamel water bowl
- Easy access vertical hinge door
- Lightweight and portable
- Prone to rusting
6. Cuisinart COS-244 Vertical 36″ Propane Smoker
The Cuisinart COS-244 Vertical 36″ Propane Smoker is a highly popular gas smoker that is built of high quality materials. The advantage of this gas smoker is that it assists with fast cooling.
Key Features
- 45 square foot interior
- Four 14 x 14 inch stainless steel racks
- Thermometer
- Adjustable gas supply
- Seal-tight twist-lock door and handle
- Porcelain enameled steel tray holds wood and water
- 40-inch propane hose and regulator.
Product Review and Description
The Cuisinart COS-244 Vertical 36″ Propane Smoker is a well built gas smoker that has a 5.45 sq. foot interior which provides ample space for all of your foods. It’s vertical form factor and size makes it perfect for patios as well as BBQ kitchens. IT has four stainless steel racks that are adjustable and easy to clean. It has a temperature gauge built on its front door to easily monitor the heat inside the smoker.
You can get total temperature control and smoke control thanks to an adjustable gas supply over the quantity of heat supplied. The smoker can be accessed through two doors. A rear vent which can be opened or kept closed allows further control of heat and smoke in the compartment. The door securely seals when you twist the handle thus providing more safety. Porcelain enamelled tray made with steel holds water as well as the wood chip. This makes the clean up after use exponentially easier. It also comes with a 40 inch hose and regulator attaching easily to a standard liquid propane tank.
- Spacious and compact
- Adjustable gas supply
- Porcelain enamelled tray
- Secure locking mechanism
- Temperature gauge often inaccurate
7. Smoke Hollow 44241G2 Vertical Propane Gas Smoker
The Smoke Hollow 44241G2 Vertical Propane Gas Smoker is a sturdy gas smoker that accommodates a lot of food in its compartments. It is ideal for large gatherings and backyard BBQ parties. It comes jam packed with features that is suitable for customization.
Key Features
- 5 cubic feet of cooking area capacity
- 5 cooking grids: 2-standard cooking grids, 2-jerky grids, 1-rib rack 1-sausage hanger
- Dual door design
- Dual stainless steel burners
- Large porcelain coated water pan
Product Review and Description
Smoke Hollow 44241G2 Vertical Propane Gas Smoker is a big smoker. A really BIG smoker. It comes with 6.5 cubic feet of cooking space which can handle really big gatherings and parties. It has five cooking grids inside, with different functionalities. Two of the grids are for standard meats. Two grids are designed specifically for smoking jerky and one grid is for smoking ribs. It also comes with a sausage hanger to top it off.
It has a dual door design, one for the cooking grids and one for the gas. The door also comes with a tempered glass viewing window. It has two stainless steel burners that are both operated autonomously for greater temperature control and optimal performance. The smoker comes with porcelain coated water pan inside that can be easily adjusted to provide the best smokiness to the meats. The Smoke Hollow 44241G2 Vertical Propane Gas Smoker is a cavernous smoker and is perfect if you want a smoker that can hold a lot of food inside.
- Gigantic cooking space
- Dual doors help in maintaining heat
- Dual burners allow more flexibility
- 5 cooking grids and 1 sausage hook
- Well built and designed to last
- Thermometer is inaccurate
8. Char-Broil Vertical Electric Smoker
The Char-Broil Vertical Electric Smoker is a very durable and well made electrical smoker that offers great value for money. It is spacious and very easy to use with convenient features.
Key Features
- 505 square inches of cooking area
- 3 adjustable chrome-plated cooking grates
- Insulated, double-walled
- Wood chip and water pan
- Chrome-plated handle
- Temperature gauge
- Electric
Product Review and Description
The Char-Broil Vertical Electric Smoker is a nicely built vertical smoker that uses electricity rather than the conventional coal or gas. Thus, it is environmentally friendlier. It has 505 sq. inches of space which is very ample and can fit a lot of food. It comes equipped with three chrome plated cooking grates that are adjustable as per your needs. Perhaps the best part about its build is that it is very well insulated from inside and double walled as well. This ensures minimum heat loss and even circulation of heat.
There is also a wood chip and water pan which catches any excess grease or water that drips from the vertical smoker. It has a chrome plated handle which ensures your safety so that you cannot burn yourself while opening the door. The front door also features a built-in temperature gauge that accurately reports the heat inside. It has a 1500 watt variable temperature heating element that heats water and wood chips so that you can get that amazing smoky flavor. The Char-Broil Vertical Electric Smoker is a great option if you want to go electric instead of the conventional charcoal or gas. It is well built and super simple to use. It is easy to maintain and clean as well.
- Insulation and double walls ensure maximum heat
- Electrical is easier to use
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Uneven temperatures and poor chip tray
9. Dyna-Glo DGX780BDC-D 36″ Vertical Charcoal Smoker
The Dyna-Glo DGX780BDC-D 36″ Vertical Charcoal Smoker has been a market leader in vertical smokers for a couple of years now. It is very convenient to use and comes with features that make it safe and easy to clean. This smoker is a no-brainer and you should definitely consider it.
Key Features
- 4 cooking grates
- 784 square inches of total cooking area
- Charcoal & ash management system
- Stainless temperature gauge
- Large wood chip box
- Porcelain enamelled steel water bowl
- 15,000 BTU Cast iron
Product Review and Description
The Dyna-Glo DGX780BDC-D 36″ Vertical Charcoal Smoker is a popular vertical smoker that is easy to use and has smart features. It features four cooking grates that are adjustable according to your needs. Its total cooking area covers 784 square inches which very spacious and can cook for a good number of people. Thus, it is ideal for a BBQ party or family gathering. It has an intuitive charcoal and ash management system. This vertical smoker integrates the charcoal chamber, charcoal grate, and the ash pan to work seamlessly together such that it can hold waste for a longer duration of time without disturbing your cooking.
It has a stainless temperature gauge which tells you the temperature inside the smoker for better heat control. This also comes with indicators that tell you when the heat levels are perfect for smoking the meat or grilling the meat. It has a large wood chip box and high capacity water bowl made with the highest quality porcelain enameled steel and heavy gauge to ensure a longer duration of hassle-free cooking. The vertical smoker has a push-to-start electric ignition 15,000 BTU cast iron burner to instantly start the fire.
- Well built and durable
- Very Spacious
- Good charcoal and ash management system
- Push-to-start cast iron burner
- Easy to use and assemble
- Good temperature control
- Wood chip box needs some adjustment for perfect functioning
- Custom cover sold separately
10. Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker
The Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker is a huge vertical smoker and is ideal for anyone looking for a smoker with very large cooking space. It also comes with offset function to smoke your food to perfection.
Key Features
- 1890 sq. in. total cooking area
- Can hold up to 150 lbs. of food
- 6 height-adjustable cooking grates
- Porcelain-enameled charcoal chamber
- Removable ash pan
- Pre-installed hi-temp rope seal
- Chrome-plated rib rack and sausage hooks
- Stainless temperature gauge
Product Review and Description
The Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker is a versatile, high performance smoker for all your outdoor barbecue needs. It has six height adjustable cooking grates that allow it to hold a bunch of different sizes and different types of food. It has a massive cooking space of 1890 sq. inches and it can hold up to 150 lbs. of food. Thus, it is ideal for even the largest of gatherings and parties. Its pre-installed door seal ensures that there is minimum heat loss.
The offset function of the smoker ensures that the food is cooked slowly with indirect heat that is distributed evenly among all the racks. This ensures that all the racks are cooked evenly with the perfect smoky flavor. It has a porcelain enameled charcoal chamber which is designed to keep wood bits and briquettes stacked as tightly as possible for greater efficiency in burning and longer lasting. The removable steel ash pan takes care of huge quantities of ash for longer duration of time to give you a hassle-free cooking experience.
The steel smoke stack has a flue that can be adjusted to get the perfect cooking temperature thus allowing you to cook with more precision and get optimum results. Furthermore, the temperature gauge tells you accurately the temperature inside the smoker along with indicators that tell you when it is the ideal smoking temperature or grilling temperature. The Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker is a perfect choice if you’re hosting large gatherings or parties.
- Precise temperature control
- Easy to use and maintain
- Offset function provides even indirect heat
- Removable steel ash pan
- Efficient design
- Temperature gauge is sometimes inaccurate
- Paint tends to withdraw at high temperatures
Final Words:
There you go! You are now equipped with the pro tips and suggestions for getting the best smokers. Now these smokers won’t magically improve your cooking skills but they will certainly help you improve it a lot by not having to worry about anything else other than the barbecue. Besides, you will score some major clout among the neighbors when you invite them for your next outdoor cookout. These vertical smokers will deliver the best lip smacking meats with delicious and authentic smokehouse flavors. So what are you waiting for? Go grab one of these vertical smokers ASAP and print out that BBQ invitation already!
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