5 Best Vertical Pellet Smokers for BBQ in 2025

Vertical smokers are becoming a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts for their efficient use of space and ability to produce mouth-watering smoked meats. Unlike traditional horizontal smokers, vertical smokers stack their cooking racks, allowing for more cooking space in a smaller footprint. This makes them ideal for those with limited outdoor space but a big appetite for smoked delicacies. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner looking to dive into the world of smoking, a vertical smoker can be a game-changer in your outdoor cooking arsenal.

What is a Vertical Smoker and How Does it Work?

A vertical smoker is a type of barbecue that utilizes a vertical configuration to maximize cooking space and minimize floor space. It uses the laws of physics to effectively and efficiently cook meat. The basic components and features of a vertical smoker include a bottom section that houses the heat source (charcoal, wood, or hardwood pellets), a water pan above the heat source, a cooking chamber where food is placed on racks or grates, and dampers that are manually adjusted to push the temperature up and down. Heat naturally rises and circulates back down, creating convection currents of heat and smoke. This process evenly and efficiently cooks food. Some vertical smokers contain a fan to help air and heat circulate, creating a more even temperature from rack to rack.

Best Vertical Pellet Smoker Comparisons

Model	Cooking Area	Specifications	Features	Price
Pit Boss Grills 77550 5.5 Pellet Smoker Best Overall ★★★★ 4.0 (362)	1,830 sq. in. 5 porcelain-coated racks	28″D x 29″W x 53″H 128 lbs 150-450°F temperature range	40 lb hopper capacity for extended smoking, digital control board with LED display, copper-colored accents	See on Amazon
Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker Best Premium ★★★★☆ 4.4 (760)	700 sq. in. total cooking area	48″L x 22″W x 51″H 84 lbs 180-450°F temperature range	PID 2.0 Controller for precise temperature control, included meat probes, 8-in-1 versatility for grilling, smoking, baking and more	See on Amazon
Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker Best Value ★★★★☆ 4.4 (6,349)	450 sq. in. cooking space	45″H x 39″W x 22″D 84 lbs 180-450°F temperature range	PID V2.1 Controller for precise temperature control, meat probe included, automatic temperature control for consistent results	See on Amazon
Masterbuilt MB20070421 Digital Electric Smoker Best Electric Smoker ★★★★☆ 4.3 (12,465)	710 sq. in. 4 chrome-coated racks	22″D x 24″W x 42″H 50.3 lbs 100-275°F temperature range	Digital panel controls for temperature and time, side wood chip loading system, thermostat temperature control for consistent cooking	See on Amazon
EAST OAK 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker Best Budget ★★★★☆ 4.4 (888)	725 sq. in. 4 removable racks	17.56″D x 18.97″W x 32.44″H 59 lbs 100-275°F temperature range	Digital control panel, side wood chip loader, convenient side handle for easy moving, simple setup and operation	See on Amazon

Pit Boss Grills 77550 5.5 Pellet Smoker Best Overall ★★★★ 4.0 (362)

Cooking Area: 1,830 sq. in. across 5 porcelain-coated racks

Specifications: 28″D x 29″W x 53″H, 128 lbs, 150-450°F range

Features: 40 lb hopper capacity, digital control board with LED display

See on Amazon

Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker Best Premium ★★★★☆ 4.4 (760)

Cooking Area: 700 sq. in. total cooking area

Specifications: 48″L x 22″W x 51″H, 84 lbs, 180-450°F range

Features: PID 2.0 Controller, meat probes included, 8-in-1 cooking versatility

See on Amazon

Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker Best Value ★★★★☆ 4.4 (6,349)

Cooking Area: 450 sq. in. cooking space

Specifications: 45″H x 39″W x 22″D, 84 lbs, 180-450°F range

Features: PID V2.1 Controller, meat probe included, automatic temperature control

See on Amazon

Masterbuilt MB20070421 Digital Electric Smoker Best Electric Smoker ★★★★☆ 4.3 (12,465)

Cooking Area: 710 sq. in. with 4 chrome-coated racks

Specifications: 22″D x 24″W x 42″H, 50.3 lbs, 100-275°F range

Features: Digital panel controls, side wood chip loading system, thermostat temperature control

See on Amazon

EAST OAK 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker Best Budget ★★★★☆ 4.4 (888)

Cooking Area: 725 sq. in. with 4 removable racks

Specifications: 17.56″D x 18.97″W x 32.44″H, 59 lbs, 100-275°F range

Features: Digital control panel, side wood chip loader, convenient side handle for easy moving

See on Amazon

Benefits of Using a Vertical Smoker

Vertical smokers offer several benefits, including:

• More cooking space per square meter of floor space
• Harnessing the power of convectional cooking to smoke evenly throughout the vertical chamber
• Consistent and repeatable results
• Ability to cook a variety of meats, including ribs, whole chickens, sausages, and briskets
• Ability to cook in a relatively small backyard or deck space
• Ability to cook in a variety of weather conditions

Buying Guide for Vertical Smokers

When shopping for a vertical smoker, consider the following factors:

1. Fuel Type: Decide between pellet, propane, or electric smokers based on your preferences for flavor, convenience, and control. The Weber Smokey Mountain is a highly regarded vertical charcoal smoker, known for its durability and user-friendly design.
2. Cooking Capacity: Consider how much food you typically need to smoke. Larger families or those who entertain frequently may need a smoker with more cooking space.
3. Temperature Range and Control: Look for smokers with a wide temperature range and easy-to-use controls for versatility in cooking methods.
4. Construction Quality: Seek out sturdy construction with good insulation to maintain consistent temperatures, especially in colder weather.
5. Additional Features: Consider features like viewing windows, meat probes, or Wi-Fi connectivity that can enhance your smoking experience.
6. Size and Portability: Think about where you’ll be using the smoker and whether you need it to be portable.
7. Price and Warranty: Balance your budget with the features you need. Look for smokers with good warranties to protect your investment.
8. Ease of Cleaning: Look for features like removable drip trays and easily accessible interiors that make cleaning simpler.
9. Brand Reputation: Consider the reputation of the brand for quality and customer service.
10. User Reviews: Read user reviews to get real-world insights into the performance and durability of the smoker.

Key Features to Look for in a Vertical Smoker

Temperature Control and Range

A quality vertical pellet smoker should offer precise temperature control and a wide cooking range. Look for:

• Digital PID controllers for maintaining consistent temperatures
• Temperature range of 150°F to 450°F for versatility
• Built-in meat probes for monitoring internal temperatures
• WiFi connectivity in premium models for remote monitoring
• Multiple dampers or vents for airflow control

Construction and Insulation

The build quality of your vertical smoker directly impacts its performance:

• Heavy-gauge steel construction for durability and heat retention
• Double-wall insulation for consistent temperatures in any weather
• High-quality door seals to prevent smoke and heat loss
• Rust-resistant coating or stainless steel components
• Sturdy legs and wheels for stability and mobility

Cooking Capacity and Layout

Vertical smokers maximize space through efficient design:

• Multiple adjustable racks (typically 4-6) for flexible cooking arrangements
• Total cooking area between 800-2000 square inches
• Removable racks for accommodating larger cuts like whole briskets
• Adequate spacing between racks for proper smoke circulation
• Hanging hooks for sausages or ribs (in some models)

Hopper and Fuel Management

For vertical pellet smokers specifically:

• Large hopper capacity (20+ pounds) for extended cooking sessions
• Easy-access ash removal system
• Reliable pellet feed mechanism to prevent jams
• Hopper cleanout door for changing pellet flavors
• Efficient pellet consumption rate for economical smoking

Convenience Features

Modern vertical smokers often include features for easier operation:

• Side doors for adding wood chips or pellets without opening the main chamber
• Large water pan for maintaining moisture levels
• Easy-clean grease management system
• Tool hooks and side shelves for workspace
• Clear, easy-to-read control panel or digital display

Additional Considerations

• Multiple port locations for additional temperature probes
• Viewing window to monitor food without opening the door
• Heavy-duty casters for mobility
• Storage cabinet in the base (on some models)
• Weather-resistant cover availability

By focusing on these key features, you can select a vertical smoker that matches your needs for capacity, convenience, and cooking performance. Whether you choose a vertical pellet smoker or another fuel type, these features will help ensure consistent results and an enjoyable smoking experience.

Pit Boss Grills 77550 5.5 Pellet Smoker – Best Overall

The Pit Boss Grills 77550 5.5 Pellet Smoker is our pick for the best overall vertical smoker on the market. This versatile and well-built smoker offers an excellent combination of features, performance, and value. Vertical pellet smokers, in particular, are known for their controlled cooking environments, efficient design, and unique features that contribute to effective smoking and heat retention.

Highlights

• Large 1,830 square inch cooking capacity
• 40 lb hopper capacity for long smoking sessions
• Digital control board with LED display
• Temperature range of 150-450°F
• 5 porcelain-coated cooking racks

Specifications

• Dimensions: 28″D x 29″W x 53″H
• Weight: 128 pounds
• Fuel Type: Wood Pellets
• Temperature Range: 150-450°F
• Cooking Area: 1,830 sq in

The Pit Boss 77550 offers an impressive 1,830 square inches of cooking space across 5 porcelain-coated racks, allowing you to smoke large quantities of food at once. The 40-pound hopper capacity means you can smoke for up to 24 hours without refilling, perfect for those long low-and-slow cooking sessions. The digital control board with LED display makes it easy to set and monitor your cooking temperature, while the wide temperature range of 150-450°F provides versatility for smoking, roasting, and even baking. The copper-colored accent on the lid adds a touch of style to this robust smoker.

Customer Reviews for Pit Boss Grills 77550 5.5 Pellet Smoker

1. “Very large smoker cabinet allows for a great deal of food to be smoked at the same time. Easy to use and great for long, low & slow cooking.”
2. “Assembly was very easy. With 5 racks, there is so much room to smoke multiple things. Really enjoying the convenience and quality of this smoker.”
3. “Worth every penny. The seven racks allow us to load it up with homemade jerky, lots of random meats for the week, and 200 chicken wings. Great for parties.”

The Pit Boss 77550 5.5 Pellet Smoker is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced smokers alike. Its large capacity, easy-to-use controls, and consistent performance make it a standout option in the vertical smoker market.

See at Amazon

Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker – Best Premium

For those seeking a premium smoking experience with advanced features, the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker is an outstanding choice. This model exemplifies the best in pellet grills, offering a combination of versatility and efficiency.

Highlights

• PID 2.0 Controller for precise temperature control
• 700 square inch cooking area for large batches
• Includes meat probes for accurate internal temperature monitoring
• Temperature range from 180°F to 450°F
• 8-in-1 versatility for grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, and more

Specifications

• Dimensions: 48″ L x 22″ W x 51″ H
• Weight: 84 pounds
• Fuel Type: Wood Pellets
• Temperature Range: 180-450°F
• Cooking Area: 700 sq in

The Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker sets itself apart with its advanced PID 2.0 Controller, which maintains precise temperatures throughout your cook. This feature is especially valuable for long smoking sessions, ensuring consistent results every time. The 700 square inch cooking area provides ample space for cooking large quantities of food, making it perfect for family gatherings or entertaining. The included meat probes allow you to monitor your food’s internal temperature without opening the lid, and the wide temperature range gives you versatility for everything from low-and-slow smoking to high-heat grilling.

Customer Reviews for Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker

1. “This grill is AWESOME! I have cooked chicken, ribs, brisket, and burgers so far, and everything has come out great! The temperature stays consistent, the probes are accurate, the controls are simple, and everything feels high-quality.”
2. “The temp is rock solid. I set it at 225 and walked away with the fan blowing hard. After a while it slows down and maintains very good control measured with external Bluetooth probe and the cooker’s probe for the entire cook.”
3. “I’ve wanted a pellet smoker/grill for a long time and this product is perfect for the price. I filled the hopper with pellets, went through the initial lighting sequence, and 6 hours later, I ate the best pork ribs I’ve ever cooked.”

The Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker is an excellent investment for serious smoking enthusiasts who want precise control and consistent results. Its versatile design and reliable performance make it a top contender in the premium pellet smoker category.

See at Amazon

Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker – Best Value

For those who prefer the versatility of pellet smoking at a value price point, the Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker offers an excellent balance of features and performance.

Highlights

• 450 square inches of cooking space
• PID V2.1 Controller for precise temperature control
• Includes meat probe for monitoring internal temperatures
• 8-in-1 versatility for grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, and more
• Automatic temperature control for consistent results

Specifications

• Dimensions: 45″ H x 39″ W x 22″ D
• Weight: 84 pounds
• Fuel Type: Wood Pellets
• Temperature Range: 180-450°F
• Cooking Area: 450 sq in

The Z GRILLS ZPG-450A offers 450 square inches of cooking space, providing ample room for smoking multiple items at once. The PID V2.1 Controller allows for precise temperature control, maintaining your set temperature with minimal fluctuations. This model includes a meat probe so you can monitor your food’s internal temperature without opening the lid, ensuring consistent cooking conditions. The 8-in-1 versatility gives you options for smoking, grilling, baking, roasting, braising, and more, making this an incredibly versatile outdoor cooking appliance.

Customer Reviews for Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker

1. “The smoker held its temp very consistently and that’s what helped me to be better anticipate and trust when things would be done. It seems sturdy and worth the money.”
2. “It was relatively easy, pre-heat the grill, prepare your meat, place it and forget it. Heat level maintained well. I smoked ribs and chicken and they came out fabulously.”
3. “I’m very happy with my ZGrill. It easily assembled and works great. The temp swings were minimal and it produces excellent smoky flavor with the right pellets.”

The Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker is an excellent choice for those seeking the versatility of wood pellet smoking at a value price. Its automatic temperature control and consistent performance make it suitable for both beginners and experienced smokers who want great results without constant monitoring.

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Masterbuilt MB20070421 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker – Best Value

For those who prefer the convenience of electric smoking, the Masterbuilt MB20070421 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker is an excellent option.

Highlights

• 710 square inches of cooking space
• Digital panel controls for temperature and time
• Side wood chip loading system
• Four chrome-coated smoking racks
• Thermostat-temperature control for even cooking

Specifications

• Dimensions: 22″D x 24″W x 42″H
• Weight: 50.3 pounds
• Fuel Type: Electric
• Temperature Range: Not specified
• Cooking Area: 710 sq in

The Masterbuilt MB20070421 offers 710 square inches of cooking space across four chrome-coated smoking racks. The digital panel controls make it easy to set and monitor both temperature and cooking time, providing precise control over your smoking process. One standout feature is the side wood chip loading system, which allows you to add wood chips without opening the smoking chamber, maintaining consistent temperature and smoke levels throughout the cooking process.

Customer Reviews for Masterbuilt MB20070421 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker

1. “A simple, solid smoker that does the job. Unboxing and doing the minor assembly required for this smoker is quick and easy. It took me less than 30 minutes.”
2. “This is a well built and easy to use smoker. We have made pork shoulder, pork chops, beef jerky, and a brisket so far and they have all been excellent.”
3. “Very nice unit – works great – easy to setup – easy to clean after using.”

The Masterbuilt MB20070421 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker is an excellent choice for those who want the convenience of electric smoking combined with precise digital controls. It’s particularly well-suited for beginners or those who prefer a set-it-and-forget-it approach to smoking.

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EAST OAK 30″ Digital Electric Smoker – Best Budget

For those on a budget, the EAST OAK 30″ Digital Electric Smoker offers great value without sacrificing key features.

Highlights

• 725 square inches of cooking space
• Digital control panel
• Side wood chip loader
• Four removable racks
• Convenient side handle for easy moving

Specifications

• Dimensions: 17.56″D x 18.97″W x 32.44″H
• Weight: 59 pounds
• Fuel Type: Electric
• Temperature Range: Not specified
• Cooking Area: 725 sq in

The EAST OAK 30″ Digital Electric Smoker provides 725 square inches of cooking space across four removable racks, offering plenty of room for smoking various foods. The digital control panel allows for easy temperature and time settings, while the side wood chip loader lets you add wood chips without opening the main door. Despite its budget-friendly price, this smoker doesn’t skimp on features. It includes a convenient side handle for easy moving and a robust construction that should stand up to regular use.

Customer Reviews for EAST OAK 30″ Digital Electric Smoker

1. “This smoker is easy to set up, easy to use, easy to clean, and best of all everything I’ve cooked in it has come out perfect every stinking time. Set it and forget it.”
2. “Very detailed review for high quality smokes. If your cooking summer sausage or other meats where temp is critical, you MUST adjust temp very slowly.”
3. “We replaced our charbroil smoker which hadn’t lasted long. This small smoker had good reviews and was very affordable. Anyway, the smoker worked perfectly.”

The EAST OAK 30″ Digital Electric Smoker is an excellent choice for those on a budget or new to smoking. It offers many of the features found in more expensive models at a fraction of the price, making it a great entry point into the world of smoking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of vertical smokers?

Vertical smokers offer several advantages:

1. Space efficiency: They have a smaller footprint compared to horizontal smokers.
2. Even heat distribution: The vertical design allows heat and smoke to rise naturally, creating more even cooking conditions.
3. Capacity: Many vertical smokers can accommodate large amounts of food on multiple racks.
4. Fuel efficiency: The vertical design often requires less fuel to maintain temperature.

Can I use my vertical smoker in cold weather?

Yes, but it may require more fuel to maintain temperature. Some models have better insulation for cold weather use. Consider using a thermal blanket designed for smokers in very cold conditions.

How often should I clean my vertical smoker?

It’s recommended to do a basic clean after each use, removing ash and grease. A deep clean should be done every 3-5 uses, depending on how often you use your smoker and what you’re cooking.

Do I need to season my vertical smoker before first use?

Yes, it’s recommended to season your smoker before first use. This process involves running the smoker at a high temperature for a period of time to burn off any manufacturing residues and create a protective layer on the interior surfaces.

Can I use wood chips in a pellet smoker?

While pellet smokers are designed to use wood pellets, some models allow for the addition of wood chips for extra smoke flavor. However, always check your manufacturer’s instructions to ensure this won’t damage your smoker or void your warranty.

How long does it take to smoke meat in a vertical smoker?

Smoking times can vary greatly depending on the type and size of meat, as well as the cooking temperature. As a general guide:

• Chicken: 2-3 hours
• Ribs: 5-6 hours
• Pork shoulder: 8-12 hours
• Brisket: 10-14 hours Always cook to the appropriate internal temperature rather than relying solely on time.

What’s the difference between a water smoker and a dry smoker?

Water smokers use a water pan to help regulate temperature and add moisture to the smoking environment. Dry smokers don’t use a water pan. Water smokers can be beneficial for longer smokes and for foods that benefit from added moisture.

Conclusion

Vertical smokers offer a space-efficient and effective way to achieve great barbecue results. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pitmaster, there’s a vertical smoker out there to suit your needs. Our top pick, the Pit Boss Grills 77550 5.5 Pellet Smoker, offers an excellent balance of features, capacity, and value for pellet smoking enthusiasts. For those who prefer propane, the Masterbuilt MB20051316 Propane Smoker is a great choice, while electric smoker fans should consider the Masterbuilt MB20070421 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker. If you’re looking for advanced features and don’t mind paying a premium, the Camp Chef XXL Pro Vertical Smoker is hard to beat. For those on a budget, the EAST OAK 30″ Digital Electric Smoker offers great value. Remember to consider your specific needs, including your preferred fuel type, available space, and how often you plan to use your smoker when making your choice. With the right vertical smoker, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious smoked meats and other foods right in your backyard. Happy 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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