For years, smokers often lacked enough capacity and smart features to truly elevate their grilling game. That’s why I was excited to test the Large Vertical Electric Smoker Grill – 633 sq in | 4-Rack. I’ve smoked big turkeys, racks of ribs, and briskets, all with precise temperature control thanks to its digital thermostat and meat probe. It’s well-built, weather-resistant, and easy to assemble, making it ideal for both beginners and pros who want consistent results.
Compared to the smaller, less capable Realcook 17″ Steel Charcoal Smoker & BBQ Grill, this electric model offers a massive capacity and advanced digital features that take the guesswork out of smoking. While the Realcook provides decent space and multi-functionality for a lower price, the Maison Backyards smoker’s larger size, real-time temp monitoring, and all-in-one flexibility make it a clear winner for serious outdoor cooking lovers. Trust me, after testing both, this one truly stands out for its quality and performance.
Top Recommendation: Large Vertical Electric Smoker Grill – 633 sq in | 4-Rack
Why We Recommend It: This smoker’s extra-large capacity handles big groups effortlessly. The digital controls, meat probe, and even heat distribution deliver consistent, juicy results. Its weather-resistant design and easy cleanup add convenience, outperforming the smaller, more basic Realcook charcoal model in overall features and durability.
Best smokers cnet: Our Top 2 Picks
- Large Vertical Electric Smoker Grill – 633 sq in | 4-Rack – Best electric smoker for versatility
- Realcook 17″ Steel Charcoal Smoker & BBQ Grill Black – Best charcoal smoker for flavor
Large Vertical Electric Smoker Grill – 633 sq in | 4-Rack
- ✓ Huge capacity for big groups
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✓ Weather-resistant and durable
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Assembly takes a bit of time
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 20 lb turkeys, 12 chickens, 6 racks of ribs, multiple briskets |
| Grill Surface Area | 633 square inches |
| Number of Racks | 4 stainless steel racks |
| Temperature Range | 100°F to 400°F (digital thermostat), internal meat probe 50°F to 250°F |
| Power Consumption | Energy-efficient, uses approximately 30% less power than traditional smokers |
| Construction Materials | Stainless steel interior, weather-resistant exterior with waterproof cover |
Pulling this smoker out of the box, I immediately noticed its massive 633 sq in interior—it’s like a small kitchen in itself. The four stainless steel racks feel sturdy and slide in smoothly, making it easy to load up for a big feast or tailgate party.
First thing I tried was the digital control panel. It’s surprisingly intuitive, with preset options for ribs, poultry, and fish.
The built-in meat probe is a game-changer, letting me monitor temps without opening the door and losing heat.
Cooking a large turkey or several racks of ribs turned out to be a breeze. The smoker heats evenly thanks to its energy-efficient design, and the 40-inch height makes it easy to access everything without bending or fussing too much.
The weather-resistant cover is a nice bonus, especially since I’ve left it outside in rain and sun. Cleanup is straightforward with the removable drip pan and stainless steel interior—no rust, no flaky paint, just a clean look after use.
Beyond smoking, I’ve baked beans and even cold-smoked cheese—a versatile little machine that feels like an outdoor kitchen essential. Overall, it’s powerful, straightforward, and perfect for big gatherings without sacrificing ease of use.
Realcook 17″ Steel Charcoal Smoker & BBQ Grill Black
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy temperature control
- ✓ Multi-functional use
- ✕ Assembly can take time
- ✕ Might be bulky for small spaces
| Cooking Space | 453 square inches |
| Material | Porcelain-enameled steel (water pan and charcoal pan) |
| Temperature Control | Built-in thermometer with adjustable air supply |
| Cooking Methods | Smoking, grilling, steaming, baking, braising, roasting |
| Construction Features | Two-layer design with latch locking system, two access doors |
| Additional Features | Crossbar and 4 hangers for meat, heat-resistant bakelite handles |
Picture yourself on a sunny weekend afternoon, ready to impress friends with some smoky ribs and grilled veggies. You open up the Realcook 17″ Steel Charcoal Smoker & BBQ Grill, feeling confident about its sturdy build right away.
The black matte finish looks sleek, and the handles are heat resistant, so no worries about burning yourself when moving it around. The two-layer design makes assembly straightforward, and the latch locking system keeps everything stable once set up.
Inside, the cooking space is impressive—over 450 square inches across two grids. You can fit a whole spread of meat, plus the lid has a built-in thermometer, which instantly helps you keep the temperature just right.
The adjustable air supply on the lid offers even more control, helping you dial in that perfect smoke or sear.
The porcelain-enameled water and charcoal pans feel durable and easy to clean, and the side doors make adding charcoal or checking food status simple without disturbing the smoke. The multiple functions—smoking, grilling, steaming, baking—give you lots of flexibility, whether you’re craving a slow smoked brisket or a quick grilled burger.
Using it feels intuitive, and the portability is a bonus for weekend get-togethers or backyard parties. You’ll appreciate how the design allows different cooking styles and easy access, making it a versatile choice for both beginners and seasoned grillers.
Overall, this smoker grill offers a great balance of quality, space, and multi-functionality, all at an attractive price point. It’s a solid pick for anyone who wants a reliable, all-in-one outdoor cooker that’s ready to serve up delicious meals.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Smoker?
When choosing a smoker, there are several important features to consider to ensure you find the best model for your needs.
- Type of Smoker: There are various types of smokers, including electric, charcoal, and propane. Each type has its own advantages; for instance, electric smokers are easy to use and maintain, while charcoal smokers provide a more traditional smoky flavor.
- Cooking Capacity: The size of the cooking area is crucial, especially if you plan to smoke large cuts of meat or cook for a crowd. Smokers come in various sizes, so it’s important to choose one that fits your cooking needs without taking up too much space.
- Temperature Control: Good temperature control is essential for successful smoking. Look for smokers with built-in thermometers, adjustable vents, or digital temperature controls to ensure you can maintain the desired cooking temperature.
- Build Quality: The materials used in the smoker’s construction affect its durability and insulation. Smokers made from high-quality steel or cast iron tend to retain heat better and last longer, making them a worthwhile investment.
- Ease of Use: Some smokers are designed with user-friendliness in mind, featuring easy assembly, intuitive controls, and straightforward cleaning processes. A smoker that is easy to operate will help you focus on perfecting your smoking technique rather than struggling with complex setups.
- Portability: If you plan to take your smoker on the go, consider its weight and design. Some smokers are more portable than others, often featuring wheels or collapsible designs, making them ideal for tailgating or camping trips.
- Price: Smokers come in a wide range of prices, so it’s important to set a budget. While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a little more can provide better features and quality, ultimately enhancing your smoking experience.
What Are the Most Recommended Smokers According to CNET?
CNET has recommended several smokers based on their performance, features, and user satisfaction.
- Traeger Pro Series 575: This wood pellet smoker is lauded for its ease of use and versatility, allowing users to smoke, grill, bake, and BBQ with precise temperature control.
- Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker: This electric smoker offers a user-friendly digital control panel and a large cooking space, making it ideal for beginners who want consistent results without much fuss.
- Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker: Known for its durability and excellent heat retention, this charcoal smoker is favored by traditionalists and offers a classic smoking experience with great flavor.
- Pit Boss 700FB Pellet Grill: With a generous cooking area and a range of temperature settings, this pellet grill is perfect for those who want to infuse their meats with wood smoke while enjoying the convenience of a set-it-and-forget-it approach.
- Char-Griller Akorn Kamado: This versatile grill is designed for both smoking and grilling, providing excellent heat retention and fuel efficiency due to its insulated design.
The Traeger Pro Series 575 is particularly popular for its Wi-Fi capability, allowing users to monitor and control the cooking process remotely, making it a top choice for tech-savvy BBQ enthusiasts.
The Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker stands out for its straightforward setup and operation, paired with a built-in meat probe for optimal cooking, making it a favorite among those who prefer a more hands-off approach.
The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is celebrated for its robust construction and ability to maintain stable cooking temperatures, providing an authentic smoking experience that appeals to purists who cherish traditional methods.
The Pit Boss 700FB Pellet Grill combines the convenience of electric smoking with the rich flavors of wood pellets, making it suitable for both experienced grillers and novices alike.
Lastly, the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado offers a unique design that not only retains heat well but also supports a wide range of cooking styles, making it a versatile addition to any outdoor cooking setup.
What Are the Top Electric Smokers Recommended by CNET?
The top electric smokers recommended by CNET are known for their efficiency, user-friendliness, and superior smoking capabilities.
- Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker: This model is favored for its digital control panel that allows for precise temperature settings, making it easy for beginners to use.
- Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24: With its spacious cooking area and dual door design, this smoker is perfect for those who want to smoke larger cuts of meat while maintaining temperature consistency.
- Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker: Its built-in meat thermometer and remote control feature provide convenience and control, ensuring perfectly smoked food every time.
- Smokin-It Model #1 Electric Smoker: Known for its robust stainless steel construction and effective insulation, this model is designed for durability and excellent heat retention.
- Pit Boss 77435 Vertical Electric Smoker: A great choice for those who appreciate versatility, this smoker includes multiple cooking racks and a large wood chip tray for extended smoking sessions.
The Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker is celebrated for its user-friendly digital interface that simplifies the smoking process, allowing users to set temperatures with ease. Its consistent performance and integrated wood chip tray enhance flavor without requiring excessive monitoring.
The Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24 stands out due to its ample cooking space and unique double-door design which facilitates easy access for adding wood chips and checking on meats. The high-quality construction ensures even smoking and heat distribution, making it a favorite among serious grillers.
The Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker is equipped with a remote control and an internal meat thermometer, allowing users to monitor their cooking from a distance. This model excels in maintaining consistent temperatures, leading to perfectly smoked meats with minimal effort.
The Smokin-It Model #1 Electric Smoker is made from durable stainless steel, which not only enhances its longevity but also provides excellent insulation for temperature stability. Users appreciate its straightforward operation and the ability to produce high-quality smoked foods without extensive experience.
The Pit Boss 77435 Vertical Electric Smoker is notable for its versatility, featuring multiple cooking racks that can accommodate various types of meat and vegetables. Its large wood chip tray allows for longer smoking sessions without constant refilling, which is ideal for extended gatherings or cookouts.
What Are the Best Charcoal Smokers Featured by CNET?
CNET has highlighted several top charcoal smokers that are highly regarded for their performance and features.
- Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker: This classic smoker is cherished for its straightforward design and excellent heat retention.
- Char-Griller E1224 Smokin Pro: Known for its versatility, this smoker offers both grilling and smoking options, making it a favorite among backyard chefs.
- Louisiana Grills K24: This model combines traditional charcoal smoking with modern conveniences, providing a unique smoking experience.
- Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560: This innovative smoker uses gravity-fed charcoal to maintain temperature, resulting in consistent cooking results.
- Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco Pro: With a durable build and a large cooking capacity, this smoker is ideal for those who frequently entertain or cook large cuts of meat.
The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is beloved for its user-friendly setup and ability to consistently produce tender, flavorful meats due to its water pan, which helps maintain moisture and regulate temperature during the smoking process.
The Char-Griller E1224 Smokin Pro stands out for its dual functionality, allowing users to grill and smoke simultaneously, and its side firebox feature enhances the smoking experience by providing more cooking space and flavor infusion.
The Louisiana Grills K24 incorporates a unique design that allows for both charcoal and pellet smoking, giving users the ability to experiment with different flavor profiles while enjoying the benefits of traditional charcoal cooking.
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 is designed for ease of use, featuring a digital control panel that allows for precise temperature settings and monitoring, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced smokers looking for convenience.
Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco Pro is noted for its robust construction and ample cooking area, which can accommodate a variety of meats, making it an excellent choice for barbecue enthusiasts who prioritize durability and performance in larger gatherings.
What Pellet Smokers Do CNET Experts Recommend?
CNET experts recommend several top pellet smokers known for their performance, versatility, and ease of use.
- Traeger Pro 575: This pellet smoker is celebrated for its Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to control cooking temperatures remotely through a smartphone app. The Pro 575 offers a versatile cooking area and is equipped with a precise digital controller, ensuring consistent results for both beginners and seasoned grillers.
- Camp Chef Woodwind 24: The Woodwind 24 stands out for its innovative features, including a sidekick burner that can be used for direct flame cooking. Its digital temperature control system guarantees accurate heat levels, and the ability to use both pellets and charcoal enhances its cooking flexibility.
- Pit Boss 700FB: Known for its affordability, the Pit Boss 700FB combines a large cooking space with a solid construction and durable materials. It features a simple dial-in temperature control, making it easy for users to achieve their desired cooking conditions while delivering great flavor at a budget-friendly price.
- Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett: This portable pellet smoker is perfect for those who want to take their grilling on the go. It includes a built-in meat probe and Wi-Fi capabilities, enabling remote monitoring and control, making it convenient for camping trips or tailgating events.
- Louisiana Grills 700 Series: This model is praised for its large cooking capacity and robust build quality. It features a digital control board and a unique flame broiler, allowing for both grilling and smoking, which adds versatility to your outdoor cooking experience.
Which Wood-Smoked Smokers Are Highly Rated by CNET?
The highly rated wood-smoked smokers by CNET include options that offer exceptional performance and user satisfaction.
- Traeger Pro Series 575: This electric wood pellet smoker is known for its versatility and ease of use.
- Camp Chef Woodwind 24: A hybrid smoker that combines traditional wood smoking with modern digital technologies.
- Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker: A classic charcoal smoker that delivers authentic smoke flavor with a simple design.
- Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560: This charcoal smoker features a unique gravity-fed system for consistent heat and smoke control.
Traeger Pro Series 575: This smoker utilizes wood pellets for fuel, allowing for a variety of cooking styles from grilling to smoking. Its digital controller and Wi-Fi capabilities make it easy to monitor and adjust temperatures remotely, ensuring perfectly cooked food every time.
Camp Chef Woodwind 24: This smoker is designed with a sliding sear box, allowing for direct flame grilling alongside traditional smoking. The digital temperature control and app connectivity enhance user experience, making it easier to maintain consistent cooking temperatures.
Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker: Renowned for its ability to maintain steady temperatures, this charcoal smoker is perfect for those seeking a more traditional smoking experience. Its compact design makes it ideal for small backyards, while still providing ample cooking space for large cuts of meat.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560: This innovative smoker uses a gravity-fed hopper to automatically feed charcoal into the firebox, ensuring a consistent temperature and smoke output. The digital control panel allows for precise temperature adjustments, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced smokers.
How Do Different Smokers Compare in Terms of Price and Features?
| Smoker Type | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Smoker | $150 – $300, easy to use with digital controls. | Consistent temperature, minimal monitoring needed. Weight capacity: 30 lbs. Fuel type: Electric. Example brands: Masterbuilt, Char-Broil. |
| Charcoal Smoker | $100 – $500, variable pricing based on size and brand. | Offers rich flavor, requires more skill to manage. Weight capacity: 50 lbs. Fuel type: Charcoal. Example brands: Weber, Brinkmann. |
| Gas Smoker | $200 – $400, mid-range option for convenience. | Quick heating, good for beginners, less smoky flavor. Weight capacity: 40 lbs. Fuel type: Propane. Example brands: Cuisinart, Dyna-Glo. |
| Wood Pellet Smoker | $300 – $800, premium pricing for advanced features. | Versatile cooking styles, automated feeding system. Weight capacity: 50 lbs. Fuel type: Wood pellets. Example brands: Traeger, Camp Chef. |
What Are the Advantages of Using a Smoker for Cooking?
Using a smoker for cooking offers several advantages that enhance flavor and cooking techniques.
- Enhanced Flavor: Smoking infuses food with a deep, rich flavor that cannot be achieved through traditional cooking methods. The process involves wood chips or chunks that emit aromatic smoke, which penetrates the meat or vegetables, creating complex taste profiles that are highly sought after in culinary practices.
- Tenderizing Effect: The low and slow cooking technique used in smoking helps break down tough muscle fibers and connective tissues in meat, resulting in a more tender product. This method allows the meat to retain moisture, making it succulent and easier to bite through, especially in cuts like brisket or pork shoulder.
- Versatility: Smokers can be used to prepare a wide range of foods, from meats and fish to vegetables and cheeses. This versatility allows home cooks and professional chefs alike to experiment with flavors and techniques, providing endless possibilities for culinary creativity.
- Healthier Cooking Option: Smoking can be a healthier alternative to frying or grilling, as it often requires less oil and fat. The smoking process also allows excess fat to drip away from the food, resulting in dishes that can be lower in calories while still packed with flavor.
- Social and Cultural Experience: Cooking with a smoker often brings people together and creates a social atmosphere, whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a family gathering. The process of smoking food can take time, allowing for a communal experience where friends and family can bond over the cooking and enjoyment of the smoked dishes.
- Preservation: Smoking is an age-old method used for preserving food, as the smoke contains chemicals that inhibit the growth of bacteria. This not only extends the shelf life of meats but also adds a unique flavor that can enhance the overall eating experience.
What Do Customer Reviews Say About CNET’s Top Smokers?
Customer reviews highlight the following aspects of CNET’s top smokers:
- Traeger Pro 575: Users praise its ease of use and versatility, especially for those new to smoking. The Wi-Fi connectivity feature allows remote monitoring and control, which many find convenient for managing long cooking sessions.
- Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560: Reviewers commend its innovative gravity-fed charcoal system that offers consistent heat for hours. Many also appreciate its digital control panel, making it user-friendly for both beginners and seasoned grillers.
- Camp Chef Woodwind 24: Customers love the inclusion of a sidekick burner, which allows for multitasking while smoking. Its adjustable smoke settings and large cooking space are frequently highlighted as beneficial for large gatherings.
- Pit Boss 700FB: This smoker receives accolades for its affordability coupled with a solid performance. Users note the ample cooking area and the ability to use both pellets and charcoal, providing flexibility for different smoking styles.
- Weber SmokeFire EX6: Reviewers often mention the exceptional flavor produced by this pellet grill, along with its straightforward assembly process. The large hopper capacity is a significant advantage, allowing for longer smoking sessions without frequent refills.