5 Best Smoker Grill Combos (2025): Reviews & Buying Guide

Looking to combine the convenience of grilling with authentic smoke flavor? A smoker grill combo lets you do both without needing separate appliances. We’ve spent months testing and researching the best smoker grill combos to help you find the perfect model for your needs and budget.

What is a Smoker Grill Combo?

A smoker grill combo is a versatile outdoor cooking appliance that combines the functionality of both a traditional grill and a smoker in a single unit. These innovative devices allow you to switch between high-heat grilling for steaks and burgers and low-and-slow smoking for items like brisket and pulled pork.

• Multi-chamber designs for smoking and grilling
• Precise temperature control systems
• Versatile cooking surfaces
• Multiple fuel options (gas, charcoal, pellets)
• Advanced venting systems for smoke control

Pit Barrel Cooker Classic Package – Best Overall

The Pit Barrel Cooker Classic Package stands out as our top pick for its exceptional versatility and remarkable simplicity. This vertical drum smoker design offers outstanding temperature stability and cooking capacity.

Highlights

• Porcelain coated steel construction
• Hook-and-hang cooking system
• 18.5-inch diameter cooking chamber
• 8 stainless steel hooks included
• Standard grill grate included

Specifications

• Cooking Area: 240 square inches (grate)
• Material: Porcelain coated steel
• Fuel Type: Charcoal
• Includes: 8 hooks, 2 hanging rods, grill grate
• Temperature Range: 225°F-375°F

Customer Reviews

• “The simplicity is amazing – fill the charcoal basket, light it, and it maintains 260°F for the entire cook. Best ribs and chicken I’ve ever had!”
• “Incredible capacity for its footprint. Can easily handle 8 racks of ribs at once with the hanging method.”
• “Set it and forget it operation with perfect results every time. The build quality is exceptional.”

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Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Grill – Best Premium

The Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Grill offers premium performance and versatility for the discerning griller, combining smoking, grilling, and more in one well-built package.

Highlights

• 8-in-1 cooking versatility
• Advanced PID V2.1 Controller for precise temperature control
• 450 square inches of cooking space
• Includes meat probe for temperature monitoring
• Auto temperature control system

Specifications

• Total Cooking Area: 450 square inches
• Temperature Range: 180°F to 450°F
• Fuel Type: Wood pellets
• Hopper Capacity: 15 lbs
• Features: PID controller, meat probe, digital display

This premium pellet grill from Z GRILLS offers exceptional temperature stability and versatility. Its PID V2.1 controller maintains your selected temperature with remarkable precision, allowing for perfect results whether you’re smoking a brisket low and slow or grilling steaks at higher temperatures. The included meat probe lets you monitor your food without lifting the lid, ensuring perfectly cooked meats every time.

Customer Reviews for Z GRILLS ZPG-450A

1. “I’ve never had a pellet smoker before. It’s always been something I’ve wanted to try. This grill is fantastic – it maintains temperature perfectly and produces amazing flavor.”
2. “The assembly was straightforward, and it performs beyond my expectations. The temperature control is precise and reliable.”
3. “So far I’ve used basic pellets without any problems. The quality of the build is impressive, and it’s very user-friendly even for beginners.”

The Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Grill offers exceptional value for a premium pellet grill, delivering consistent results and versatile cooking options. From smoking and grilling to baking and roasting, this 8-in-1 cooker handles it all with ease.

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Char-Griller® AKORN® Kamado – Best Egg Style

The Char-Griller® AKORN® Kamado is a versatile kamado-style charcoal grill and smoker designed for both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow cooking. Featuring a robust Graphite finish and 445 square inches of cooking surface, it delivers authentic BBQ flavor with an egg-style design.

Highlights

• Kamado Charcoal Grill: Ideal for both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking.
• Large Cooking Area: 20-inch cooking diameter offering 445 square inches of surface area.
• Best in Class Features: Triple-walled steel insulated design, cast iron grates, locking lid, 8″ locking caster wheels, removable warming rack, bottom storage shelf, and foldable side shelf workstations with BBQ tool storage hooks.
• Easy to Use & Clean: Indexed adjustable dual dampers with an integrated thermometer and a removable easy dump ash pan.
• Dimensions: Measures 31″L x 45″W x 47″H and weighs 97 lbs.

Specifications

• Cooking Surface Area: 445 square inches
• Product Dimensions: 45″D x 31″W x 47″H
• Fuel Type: Charcoal
• Special Feature: Warming Rack
• Color: Graphite
• Model: AKORN Kamado (E16620)

Customer Reviews

• “Works great, definitely worth the money. I’ve used it for over 1.5 years with excellent results—from smoking a turkey to reverse searing a prime rib.”
• “Offers excellent temperature control, though some users note issues with rust and parts replacement over time.”
• “Love it! Easy assembly and a fantastic value that consistently delivers both low-and-slow cooking and high-heat searing.”

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Traeger Tailgater 20 – Best Professional

The Traeger Tailgater 20 Portable Wood Pellet Grill combines professional-grade performance with portability, making it the perfect companion for outdoor cooking adventures or limited space.

Highlights

• Portable design with foldable legs
• 6-in-1 versatility (smoke, bake, roast, braise, BBQ, grill)
• 300 square inches of cooking space
• Digital Elite Controller for precise temperature control
• Authentic wood-fired flavor

Specifications

• Cooking Area: 300 square inches
• Fuel Type: Wood pellets
• Temperature Range: 180°F to 450°F
• Hopper Capacity: 8 lbs
• Weight: 62 lbs with folding legs for portability

The Traeger Tailgater 20 delivers professional-quality results in a compact, portable package. Its 300 square inches of cooking space can handle up to 12 burgers, 3 racks of ribs, or 2 whole chickens at once, making it perfect for gatherings of any size. The Digital Elite Controller maintains precise temperatures, while the foldable legs make it easy to transport for tailgating, camping, or any outdoor adventure.

Customer Reviews for Traeger Tailgater 20

1. “Yes, I like this grill so much that I bought 2. Big enough for 40 wings or 6 steaks! Small enough to remove the legs and take it camping with you. Buy it, you won’t regret it!”
2. “This is my second Traeger. It delivers a better quality cook without any of the hassle. Perfect for when you want to set it and forget it while enjoying time with friends and family.”
3. “A friend has this tailgater and loves it so we decided to try it for ourselves. We love it – perfect size and easy to use. Cooks in the time and heat you need every time.”

For those seeking professional-grade performance in a portable package, the Traeger Tailgater 20 is the perfect solution. Its combination of portability, versatility, and Traeger’s legendary wood-fired flavor makes it an excellent choice for any grilling enthusiast.

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Pit Boss PB1230SP – Best Dual Fuel

The Pit Boss PB1230SP combines the precision of wood pellet smoking with the convenience of gas grilling in one impressive unit.

Highlights

• Dual fuel capability
• WiFi and Bluetooth enabled
• Large cooking capacity
• Digital control board
• Heavy-duty construction

Specifications

• Multiple cooking chambers
• Temperature Range: 180°F-500°F
• Fuel Types: Wood pellets and gas
• WiFi Enabled: Yes
• Construction: Heavy-duty steel

Customer Reviews

• “Outstanding smoker/grill combo! The convenience of gas with the flavor of wood pellets.”
• “Cooks great and smokes meat easily. WiFi monitoring makes it even better.”
• “Well built and delivers consistent results. Perfect for any outdoor cooking style.”

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Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Smoker Grill Combo

When selecting the best smoker grill combo, consider the following factors to ensure you get the right model for your needs:

1. Construction Quality and Materials

• Cast aluminum offers excellent heat distribution and rust resistance
• Triple-wall steel provides great insulation and durability
• Porcelain-coated steel resists rust and maintains heat well
• Stainless steel components resist corrosion and are easy to clean
• Heavy-duty hardware ensures long-term stability

2. Temperature Control Features

• Adjustable dampers or vents for airflow control
• Digital controllers for precise temperature settings
• Multi-zone cooking capabilities for versatility
• Built-in temperature gauges should be accurate and easy to read
• WiFi connectivity for remote monitoring and control

3. Cooking Space and Versatility

• Primary cooking surface area for regular grilling
• Secondary racks for smoking or warming
• Multiple cooking zones for different temperatures
• Ability to add accessories like rotisserie kits
• Storage space for tools and fuel

4. Fuel Type and Efficiency

Each fuel type offers distinct advantages:

• Wood Pellets: Consistent temperature, automated feeding, excellent flavor
• Charcoal: Traditional smoky flavor, high heat capability, lower fuel cost
• Gas: Convenient, quick startup, precise temperature control
• Dual Fuel: Maximum versatility but higher initial cost

5. Maintenance and Cleaning

• Easy-access ash removal systems
• Grease management systems
• Removable components for cleaning
• Weather-resistant materials
• Tool storage solutions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I season my new smoker grill combo?

1. Clean all surfaces thoroughly with warm soapy water.
2. Dry completely and coat the interior with high-heat cooking oil.
3. Run the unit at 250°F for 2-3 hours.
4. Let cool completely.
5. Repeat if necessary for better seasoning.

What’s the best way to control temperature?

• Start with clean vents and grates.
• Use quality fuel appropriate for your unit.
• Make small adjustments to vents/controls.
• Allow 15-20 minutes between adjustments.
• Use reliable temperature monitoring tools.
• Consider weather conditions.

How often should I clean my smoker grill combo?

Maintain a regular cleaning schedule:

• After each use: Brush grates and empty ash.
• Every 3-5 uses: Deep clean all surfaces.
• Monthly: Check and clean grease traps.
• Seasonally: Inspect all parts and connections.
• Annually: Professional inspection if heavily used.

Can I use my smoker grill combo year-round?

Yes, but consider these factors in different seasons:

• Use an insulation blanket in cold weather.
• Account for increased fuel consumption in winter.
• Protect from rain and extreme weather.
• Position away from strong winds.
• Allow extra time for preheating in cold conditions.

How long does it take to smoke different meats?

• Chicken: 2-3 hours
• Ribs: 5-6 hours
• Pork Shoulder: 1-1.5 hours per pound
• Brisket: 1-1.5 hours per pound
• Turkey: 30-40 minutes per pound

Conclusion

After extensive testing and research, the Pit Barrel Cooker Classic stands out as our best overall choice for its exceptional versatility, durability, and value. Its simple yet effective design produces consistently excellent results for both smoking and grilling.

If you’re looking for a premium option with advanced technology, the Z GRILLS ZPG-450A is an excellent choice with its PID controller and versatile 8-in-1 functionality.

For a unique egg-style grilling experience, the Char-Griller® AKORN® Kamado delivers robust performance and authentic kamado flavor.

For those seeking professional-grade performance in a portable package, the Traeger Tailgater 20 offers exceptional results on the go.

And for maximum versatility with dual-fuel capability, the Pit Boss PB1230SP combines the convenience of gas grilling with the rich flavor of wood pellet smoking.

Remember to consider your specific needs, including cooking capacity, fuel preference, and available space when making your final decision. With proper care and maintenance, a quality smoker grill combo can provide years of enjoyable outdoor cooking experiences.

Happy grilling and smoking!

Chris Johns

Chris is the founder of BBQ Report® and has been an avid barbecue fan for over 20 years. His mission is to make grilling and smoking the best food possible easy for everyone. And each year, he continues to help more people with grilling, smoking, and barbecue recipe recommendations.

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