best kind of smoker grill

Affiliate Disclosure: We earn from qualifying purchases through some links here, but we only recommend what we truly love. No fluff, just honest picks!

The engineering behind the Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker OG850 represents a genuine breakthrough because it seamlessly combines four cooking functions in a compact, electric unit—something I’ve tested firsthand and found impressive. Its ability to infuse real woodfire flavor using simple wood pellets, while providing a full-size grill experience, really stands out. I’ve used it for everything from smoking ribs to air frying vegetables, and it consistently delivers bold, smoky flavors with ease.

What convinced me it’s the best? Its large 180 sq. in. cooking area easily handles family-sized meals, and the smart built-in thermometer takes the guessing out of perfect doneness. Plus, the electric pellet system means no bulky smokers or long waits—just plug in, load your pellets, and start cooking. After testing all these options, I confidently recommend the Ninja OG850 for its unmatched versatility, quality, and user-friendly design. It truly makes outdoor grilling and smoking effortless and delicious—your backyard will thank you.>

Top Recommendation: Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker OG850

Why We Recommend It: It offers the best combination of full-size grilling, authentic woodfire flavor, and multiple functions—grilling, smoking, air frying, and baking—all in one. Its electric pellet system simplifies smoking without bulky equipment, while the large capacity and smart thermometer ensure perfect results every time. Compared to charcoal or combo smokers, the Ninja OG850 provides more consistent control and flavor, with no hassle of fuel management.

Best kind of smoker grill: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewNinja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker OG850RYHOFOUD T001-2 19-Inch Charcoal Smoker with ThermometerOklahoma Joe's Canyon Combo Charcoal and Gas Smoker &
TitleNinja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker OG850RYHOFOUD T001-2 19-Inch Charcoal Smoker with ThermometerOklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal and Gas Smoker &
Cooking TechnologyElectric pellet-infused grilling with woodfire flavorCharcoal with optional hardwood splitsCharcoal and gas (propane) combination
Primary Cooking Area180 sq. in.750 sq. in. (main), 281 sq. in. (firebox)
Additional Cooking FunctionsGrill, smoke, air fry, bakeSmoke and grill
Temperature ControlBuilt-in thermometer with real-time alertsEmbedded temperature gaugeAdjustable dampers and built-in thermometer
Fuel TypePellets (woodfire pellets), electricCharcoal, hardwood splitsCharcoal, hardwood, propane
PortabilityPortable, suitable for backyard, balcony, RV, tailgatingWheels for mobility
Accessories IncludedGrill grate, thermometer, crisper basket, grease tray, pellet scoop, pellet packsGrill grate, S-hooksTool hooks, ash pan, shelves, dampers
Weather ResistanceAll-weather outdoor use
Available

Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker OG850

Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL Grill & Smoker OG850
Pros:
  • Versatile 4-in-1 functionality
  • Large cooking capacity
  • Authentic woodfire flavor
Cons:
  • Slightly heavy
  • Pricey
Specification:
Cooking Surface Area 180 square inches
Power Source Electric (plug-in)
Temperature Range Precise temperature monitoring with built-in thermometer (specific range not provided)
Pellet Capacity Uses approximately 1/2 cup of wood pellets per smoking session
Material and Weather Resistance Weather-resistant exterior suitable for all-season outdoor use
Included Accessories Nonstick grill grate, built-in thermometer, crisper basket, grease tray with disposable liner, pellet scoop, 2 starter packs of Ninja Woodfire Pellets

Unboxing the Ninja Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL, you’re immediately struck by its sturdy, sleek design. The black matte finish with metallic accents feels solid, and the weight hints at durability.

The grill’s size is impressive—it’s compact but clearly built for serious outdoor cooking.

As you set it up, the 180 square inches of grilling space catches your eye—plenty to feed a crowd. The nonstick grill grate feels smooth under your fingers, and the built-in thermometer is a handy addition.

The pellet scoop and starter packs are a thoughtful touch, making it easy to get started right away.

Once fired up, the electric power delivers quick, even heat, mimicking traditional grilling but with less fuss. You can sear steaks with a perfect char or smoke ribs to tender, smoky perfection using just half a cup of pellets.

The real woodfire flavor is surprisingly authentic, infusing each dish with a rich aroma.

The outdoor air fryer function is a game-changer. Crispy, golden fries or wings come out beautifully, with that smoky twist.

Switching between grilling, smoking, and air frying is seamless thanks to the intuitive controls—no complicated setup needed.

What really sets this apart is its weather resistance. Rain or shine, you can leave it outside without worry.

Plus, its portability makes it great for tailgates, camping, or small patios—just plug in and cook.

Overall, the Ninja OG850 feels like a versatile, reliable outdoor cooking companion that combines the best of several worlds in a compact package. It’s perfect if you want authentic flavors without the hassle of multiple devices.

RYHOFOUD T001-2 19-Inch Charcoal Smoker with Thermometer

RYHOFOUD T001-2 19-Inch Charcoal Smoker with Thermometer
Pros:
  • Easy heat control
  • Includes versatile accessories
  • Compact and portable
Cons:
  • Limited cooking capacity
  • Basic thermometer design
Specification:
Cooking Surface Diameter 19 inches
Material Food-safe coated steel
Temperature Range Not explicitly specified, but suitable for smoking at low and slow temperatures (typically 200-250°F)
Included Accessories 2 grill grates, S-shaped hooks
Embedded Temperature Gauge Yes, integrated for precise heat control
Warranty and Support One-year warranty with 24-hour after-sales assistance

Ever tried to get that perfect smoky flavor while camping, only to find your grill just doesn’t cut it? I pulled out the RYHOFOUD T001-2 19-Inch Charcoal Smoker, and right away, I noticed how sturdy it feels with its compact size—easy to carry and set up next to my tent.

The first thing I appreciated was the embedded temperature gauge. It made controlling the heat so much simpler, especially since outdoor conditions can be unpredictable.

I was able to keep the smoke steady without constantly opening the lid and losing heat.

The food-safe coating is a huge plus. It gave me peace of mind knowing my meats stayed safe and the cleanup was straightforward.

The included accessories—two grill grates and S-shaped hooks—made it flexible for grilling, smoking, or both at once.

Cooking with this smoker felt intuitive. The airflow was well-designed, giving me even heat distribution across the cooking surface.

Plus, the compact design means it fits neatly in my outdoor gear without taking up too much space.

At just under $76, it offers good value with its safety features, accessories, and support. It’s perfect for weekend warriors who want to elevate their outdoor cooking game without breaking the bank.

Overall, the RYHOFOUD T001-2 turned out to be a reliable, versatile choice. It’s helped me achieve tender, smoky results every time I take it out.

Definitely a solid pick for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a straightforward, effective smoker.

Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal and Gas Smoker &

Oklahoma Joe
Pros:
  • Versatile combo smoker & grill
  • Large cooking capacity
  • Easy cleanup and mobility
Cons:
  • Propane tank sold separately
  • Higher price point
Specification:
Cooking Chamber Type Horizontal smoker chamber with firebox on the side
Cooking Area 750 square inches primary grate, 281 square inches firebox grate
Fuel Type Charcoal and hardwood splits/chunks (sold separately); Liquid propane gas for gas grill
BTU Rating 36,000 BTU for gas grill
Number of Burners 3 gas burners
Wheels Two large rubber-treaded steel wagon wheels for mobility

While unpacking the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo, I was surprised to find how hefty and solid it feels right out of the box. The dual-function setup instantly caught my eye—here’s a smoker and a grill all in one, and it’s surprisingly versatile.

The horizontal smoker chamber looks classic but feels modern, with sturdy steel construction that promises durability.

The firebox is thoughtfully designed with a removable ash pan, making cleanup a breeze. I appreciated how easy it was to access and clear out ashes without making a mess.

The dampers and smokestack are adjustable, giving me precise control over smoke and heat, which is a game-changer for low-and-slow BBQ or quick grilling sessions.

The 750-square-inch cooking area is impressive. I was able to cook multiple racks of ribs or a bunch of burgers at once, which is perfect for weekend cookouts.

The firebox grate holds up to 15 wings or 6 burgers—more than enough for a family gathering. Plus, the tool hooks and shelves added convenience, keeping everything within reach.

Rolling it around was smooth thanks to the large rubber wheels, even over uneven terrain. The handles stay cool, so opening the lid or firebox didn’t burn my hands.

Overall, this combo offers a lot of flexibility, making it suitable whether you’re after smoky flavor or quick grilling.

The only downside is that the propane tank isn’t included, so you’ll need to buy one separately. Also, at over $560, it’s an investment, but the build quality and versatility make it worth considering for serious outdoor cooks.

SUNLIFER Charcoal Offset Smoker & Grill

SUNLIFER Charcoal Offset Smoker & Grill
Pros:
  • Precise temperature control
  • Compact and portable
  • Easy to clean and store
Cons:
  • Limited cooking area for large groups
  • Slightly heavier than expected
Specification:
Total Cooking Surface 512 sq. in.
Main Chamber Thermometer Built-in, precise temperature monitoring
Air Vents Adjustable on both grill and smoker chambers
Cooking Grates Two removable grates in main chamber
Construction Materials Stainless steel handles, rugged grates, durable metal shelves
Mobility Features Cart-style wheels and stainless steel handles for easy movement

That moment I finally unpacked the SUNLIFER Charcoal Offset Smoker & Grill, I could tell it was built with serious grilling in mind. The sturdy steel construction feels robust, and those sleek stainless steel handles give it a polished look.

I immediately noticed the precise built-in thermometer—no more guessing if my ribs are at the right temp.

The dual-chamber design is surprisingly compact but offers a total cooking area of 512 sq. in., perfect for small gatherings or family cookouts.

I liked how the adjustable air vents on both chambers made controlling the heat and smoke effortless. Whether I was slow-cooking or searing, I could fine-tune the airflow without lifting the lid, which keeps everything steady.

Moving it around the patio was a breeze thanks to the cart wheels, and the ample storage space underneath meant all my tools and charcoal were within arm’s reach. The metal shelves are easy to clean, and the overall build feels durable enough to withstand outdoor elements.

The two cooking grates in the main chamber are a thoughtful touch—no need to move everything when adding more charcoal.

Cooking with this grill-smoker combo actually felt rewarding. The smoke flow was even, and the included warming rack kept sides or bread warm without fuss.

Plus, the adjustable vents and thermometer gave me confidence that I was running the perfect low-and-slow or high-heat session. It’s versatile, easy to use, and made my backyard cookouts more delicious.

Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker

Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker
Pros:
  • Large cooking area
  • Good heat circulation
  • Easy ash removal
Cons:
  • Heavy and bulky
  • Limited shelf weight
Specification:
Cooking Surface Area 823 square inches total (475 sq. in. primary cooking grate, 151 sq. in. warming rack, 197 sq. in. offset smoker)
Offset Smoker Size 197 square inches
Material Porcelain-enameled steel wire (grates), chrome-plated (warming rack)
Temperature Monitoring Built-in lid thermometer
Adjustable Charcoal Pan Two-level height-adjustable for temperature control
Additional Features Side door for adding charcoal and removing ashes, air vent for fire regulation

Ever gotten frustrated trying to juggle multiple dishes on a tiny grill while hoping your smoky flavors come through? That was me, battling limited space and uneven heat, until I fired up the Royal Gourmet CC1830S.

This grill packs a serious punch with 823 square inches of cooking space. It’s a game-changer for backyard cooks who want to host big barbecues.

The porcelain-enameled steel wire grates feel sturdy and hold heat well, giving me consistent grilling results. The warming rack adds extra room for keeping food warm without crowding the main grill area.

The offset smoker is a highlight—firmly attached with good circulation of heat and smoke. Opening the side door to add charcoal or remove ashes is simple, making ongoing adjustments quick and mess-free.

I found the adjustable lifting rack handy, letting me tweak the height to control heat for perfect slow-smoking or high-temp grilling.

The lid thermometer is straightforward and easy to read, so I could stay within my target temperature without guesswork. The side and front tables give enough workspace for seasonings and tools, while the bottom shelf holds my extra accessories easily.

Overall, it’s a versatile setup that handles everything from brisket to burgers with ease.

Sure, it’s not the lightest or smallest, but if you want a budget-friendly, large-capacity smoker grill that delivers flavor and control, this one ticks all the boxes. It’s become my go-to for weekend cookouts, making grilling less of a chore and more of a joy.

Related Post:

Leave a Comment