If you’re a BBQ enthusiast, you know that finding the best smokers for 2024 is crucial to achieving that perfect smoky flavor. With so many options on the market, from pellet grills and charcoal smokers to electric smokers and gas grills, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs.

We’ve got you covered! We’ve scrutinized the top smoker brands to bring you the ultimate rundown of the best smokers for 2024. Whether you’re a BBQ newbie or a seasoned pro, you’ll find the perfect smoker to elevate your grill game.

So, grab a cold drink, fire up the grill, and let’s dive into the world of smokers. You’ll learn about the latest features, like WiFi connectivity, digital controls, and meat probes, as well as the pros and cons of each type of smoker. By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to make an informed decision and start smoking like a pro.

Best Smokers for 2024

We all know the thrill of outdoor cooking, and the real magic happens when you bring out the smoker. With so many fantastic options available, including pellet grills, charcoal smokers, electric smokers, and gas grills, finding the perfect fit can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve done the legwork to bring you the top picks for the best smokers of 2024.

We’ve spent years perfecting my smoking skills, from tender brisket to fall-off-the-bone ribs. For anyone serious about BBQ, having a reliable smoker is crucial. Whether you’re a grill master or just starting out, investing in a top-notch smoker will take your cooking to the next level. So, let’s explore the best smokers for 2024.

Pellet Grills

Pellet grills have taken the outdoor cooking scene by storm, and it’s easy to see why. With wood pellets as their fuel source, these versatile smokers crank out consistent heat and a depth of smoke flavor that’s hard to beat. And with digital temperature control at your fingertips, you can smoke or grill with precision.

Pellet grills stand out for their user-friendly nature. Unlike charcoal smokers, which require constant babysitting, pellet grills let you set the temperature and forget about it. This hands-off approach is perfect for those who crave smoky flavors without the hassle of tending to a fire all day long.

Charcoal Smokers

If you’re a BBQ aficionado, you know that nothing compares to the rich, smoky flavor of charcoal-smoked meat. For decades, charcoal smokers have been the go-to for authentic ‘cue, and it’s easy to see why. The unique marriage of charcoal and wood chunks produces an unmistakable flavor profile that’s tough to replicate with other fuels. Check out our guide to the best charcoal smokers for your next pit stop.

While charcoal smokers do require more hands-on attention compared to electric or pellet smokers, many barbecue enthusiasts find the process rewarding. Tending to the fire, adjusting the vents, and monitoring the temperature all become part of the smoking experience. And with a little practice, you’ll be able to create mouthwatering smoked meats that will have your friends and family coming back for more.

Electric Smokers

If you’re looking for a hassle-free smoking experience, electric smokers are the way to go. These convenient devices use electric heating elements to generate heat, and often come equipped with handy features like digital temperature controls, programmable meat probes, and wood chip trays for that unmistakable smoke flavor.

While electric smokers may not provide the same depth of flavor as charcoal or wood-fired smokers, they still produce delicious results. And with their “set it and forget it” approach, electric smokers are perfect for those who want to enjoy smoked meats without the hassle of tending to a fire.

Gas Grills

Gas grills have won over many a backyard chef with their quick ignition, hassle-free cooking, and precise temperature control – making them the go-to choice for outdoor cooking. And with many models now boasting smoker-like capabilities, the possibilities are endless.

Gas grills that come equipped with dedicated smoker boxes or burners offer the best of both worlds. You can smoke your favorite meats to perfection while maintaining a consistent temperature, all without needing separate appliances.

Weber Grills Searwood XL 600 36-Inch Wi-Fi Enabled Wood Fired Pellet Grill

The Weber Grills Searwood XL 600 36-Inch Wi-Fi Enabled Wood Fired Pellet Grill is a top-of-the-line smoker that’s perfect for anyone who loves the taste of wood-fired cooking. This grill has a huge 600 square inches of cooking space, so you can smoke enough food for a big crowd. The built-in Wi-Fi lets you control the temperature and monitor your food from your phone, even if you’re not right next to the grill.

One of the best things about the Searwood XL 600 is how easy it is to use. The digital control panel makes it simple to set the temperature and choose from a variety of pre-programmed cooking modes. You can also create custom cooking programs to get the perfect results every time. The hopper holds up to 20 pounds of pellets, so you can smoke for hours without having to refill.

The Searwood XL 600 is built to last, with heavy-duty steel construction and a porcelain-enameled finish that resists rust and weather damage. The grill also comes with a bunch of handy accessories, including:

• A side shelf for extra prep space
• A bottom shelf for storage
• A front shelf with tool hooks
• A meat probe for monitoring internal temperatures

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just getting started with smoking, the Weber Grills Searwood XL 600 36-Inch Wi-Fi Enabled Wood Fired Pellet Grill is a great choice. With its huge cooking capacity, easy-to-use controls, and durable construction, this grill will help you create delicious wood-fired meals for years to come.

Weber Grills Master Touch 22-Inch Charcoal Grill with Gourmet BBQ System Cooking Grate

The Weber Grills Master Touch 22-Inch Charcoal Grill is a top choice for backyard grilling enthusiasts. This grill features a premium 22-inch diameter porcelain-enameled bowl and lid, giving you plenty of space to cook up delicious meals for family and friends. The gourmet BBQ system cooking grate is the real star of the show, allowing you to swap out the center section for various cooking inserts like a pizza stone, wok, or griddle.

This charcoal grill also includes a built-in lid thermometer, making it easy to monitor your cooking temperature without lifting the lid and letting heat escape. The One-Touch cleaning system with a high-capacity ash catcher makes cleanup a breeze, so you can spend more time enjoying your perfectly grilled food and less time dealing with messy ash.

Some other notable features of the Weber Grills Master Touch include:

• Plated steel hinged cooking grate for easy access to fuel
• Rust-resistant aluminum dampers for precise temperature control
• Durable all-weather wheels for easy mobility
• Built-in lid hook for convenient lid storage

Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, the Weber Grills Master Touch 22-Inch Charcoal Grill with Gourmet BBQ System Cooking Grate is a versatile and reliable choice for all your backyard grilling needs.

Weber Grills Smokey Mountain Cooker 22-Inch Charcoal Smoker

The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker 22-Inch Charcoal Smoker is a top choice for BBQ enthusiasts in 2024. This smoker has a sleek, classic design that looks great in any backyard. But it’s not just about looks – the Smokey Mountain Cooker delivers amazing performance too.

With 726 square inches of cooking space, this smoker can handle anything from a small family gathering to a big block party. The two cooking grates give you plenty of room to smoke multiple cuts of meat at once. And the built-in thermometer makes it easy to keep an eye on the temperature inside the smoker.

One of the best features of the Smokey Mountain Cooker is how easy it is to use. The charcoal chamber is designed to hold heat for hours, so you don’t have to constantly add more fuel. And the dampers let you adjust the airflow to control the temperature and smoke level. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner, you’ll love how simple it is to get great results with this smoker.

Some other key features of the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker include:

• Porcelain-enameled lid, bowl, and center section retain heat and won’t rust or peel
• Two nickel-plated cooking grates provide ample room for smoking ribs, roasts, and more
• Silicone temperature grommet monitors the internal temperature of your smoker
• Removable fuel door makes it easy to add charcoal and wood while smoking
• Rust-resistant aluminum fuel door is strong and durable

If you’re looking for a high-quality charcoal smoker that will help you create mouthwatering BBQ, the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is a fantastic choice. Its combination of performance, ease of use, and durability make it one of the best smokers you can buy in 2024.

Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-Inch Charcoal Ceramic Kamado Grill

The Kamado Joe Classic Joe II is a top-of-the-line charcoal ceramic kamado grill that’s perfect for smoking, grilling, and baking. This versatile smoker is made with high-quality materials and features a thick-walled, heat-resistant shell that holds heat and moisture exceptionally well. The Classic Joe II has a cooking surface of 256 square inches, which is big enough to cook for a family or small gathering.

One of the standout features of the Kamado Joe Classic Joe II is its Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System. This innovative system lets you cook different foods at different temperatures at the same time. The multi-level, half-moon design doubles your grilling space and makes it easy to cook meats, vegetables, and more to perfection.

The Classic Joe II also boasts a precision ventilation dial, which gives you ultimate control over the temperature inside the grill. The built-in thermometer lets you monitor the temperature, so you can make adjustments as needed to get the perfect cook every time. And when you’re done cooking, the slide-out ash drawer makes cleanup a breeze.

Some of the other features that make the Kamado Joe Classic Joe II a top pick for 2024 include:

• Air lift hinge that reduces the dome weight by 96%
• Kontrol Tower Top Vent that maintains consistent air setting for precise airflow management
• Stainless steel latch that ensures an ultra-tight seal
• Wire mesh fiberglass gasket that offers a superior air-tight seal and 10 times the life of normal industry gaskets

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a backyard grilling enthusiast, the Kamado Joe Classic Joe II is a top-performing smoker that delivers delicious results every time.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Smoker

Take your grilling game to the next level by selecting the right smoker for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, considering a few key factors will ensure you find the perfect smoker to infuse that smoky flavor into your favorite meats and veggies.

Cooking Area and Capacity

When shopping for a smoker, it’s crucial to consider the number of people you’ll be cooking for and the type of food you plan to smoke. If you’re a fan of hosting big gatherings or smoking whole briskets, look for a smoker with a generous cooking area, measured in square inches.

If you’re a small-batch kind of cook or prefer smoking smaller cuts of meat, a more compact smoker is the way to go. Keep in mind that larger smokers guzzle more fuel and take longer to heat up, so find the sweet spot that works for you.

Heat Source and Fuel Type

Heat up your outdoor cooking with the right fuel source. You’ve got options – charcoal, wood pellets, electricity, or gas – each with its pros and cons. Consider your lifestyle and preferences to pick the one that fits you best.

• Charcoal smokers offer a traditional smoking experience and impart a strong, smoky flavor but require more hands-on temperature control.
• Wood pellet smokers, like the Best Smokers for 2024, provide a convenient and consistent smoking experience with the push of a button, thanks to digital controls and pellet sensors.
• Electric smokers are easy to use and maintain a consistent temperature, but they may not provide the same level of smoky flavor as other fuel types.
• Gas smokers offer a balance between convenience and flavor, with the ability to add wood chips for additional smoke.

Temperature Control and Ease of Use

When it comes to smoking, the perfect smoke ring and smoky flavor are just a temperature away. That’s why it’s essential to find a smoker with reliable temperature control, whether it’s through digital controls, thermostats, or manual dampers that let you adjust the heat to your liking.

Before choosing a smoker, consider the level of expertise required to operate it. Pellet smokers, for instance, are generally more forgiving for beginners, while charcoal smokers demand more experience and patience. Pick a smoker that matches your skills and the time you’re willing to dedicate to mastering the art of smoking.

Construction and Durability

Want a smoker that’ll stand the test of time? Look for ones built with rugged materials like heavy-gauge steel or ceramic, which boast top-notch heat retention and durability. Stainless steel components and porcelain-coated grates are also a plus – they resist rust and make cleaning a breeze.

If you want to get the most out of your smoker, make sure to inspect the insulation and seals. A well-insulated smoker will maintain a consistent temperature, and a tight-fitting lid will prevent heat from escaping, leading to better performance and a longer lifespan.

Additional Features and Accessories

fancy taking your smoking game to the next level? Opt for a model that’s equipped with a built-in meat probe, allowing you to monitor the internal temperature of your culinary masterpiece without interrupting the cooking process.

What really sets these smokers apart are the little extras. Take the removable ash pans, for instance – they make cleanup a breeze. And those side shelves? Perfect for prepping your next meal. Some high-end models even throw in WiFi connectivity, so you can keep an eye on your smoker from the comfort of your couch.

Cooking with a smoker is an art, and the right tool makes all the difference. Whether you’re a charcoal, pellet, electric, or gas devotee, choosing the best smoker for your needs will elevate your backyard cookouts to a whole new level. Imagine the aroma of slow-cooked, smoky goodness wafting from your patio – it’s a culinary dream come true.

Key Takeaway:

When choosing a smoker, consider the cooking space and capacity based on the number of people you typically cook for and the types of food you plan to smoke, and balance it with fuel requirements and heating time.

Tips for Getting the Best Results from Your Smoker

Smoking champions know that top-notch meats and ingredients are crucial for a stellar outcome. This is especially true when tackling a rich, fatty cut like a pork shoulder or a humble yet oh-so-delicious plate of chicken wings. Which is why using the good stuff is a no-brainer.

Proper seasoning and preparation of the meat before smoking is also crucial. I like to use a simple blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder for most of my smokes, but feel free to get creative with your favorite spices and rubs.

Maintaining Consistent Temperatures

Smoking mastery starts with temperature control. To get those perfect, tender results, you need to keep a close eye on the heat – both inside the smoker and inside the meat itself. A reliable thermometer is your best friend here.

When smoking, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on temperatures without constantly lifting the lid. Every time you open it, you’re letting heat and smoke escape, which can compromise the quality of your cook.

Choosing the Right Wood

When it comes to smoking meats, the type of wood you use can make all the difference. For a flavor profile that’s both bold and balanced, I swear by a combination of hickory and apple wood for my pork shoulder and chicken wings. The hickory provides a robust, smoky backbone, while the apple wood adds a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the meat.

Just be sure not to overdo it with the smoke. Too much smoke can result in a bitter taste, so aim for a light, steady stream of smoke rather than billowing clouds.

Letting the Meat Rest

After you’ve finished smoking your meat, the hardest part begins: waiting. But trust us, it’s worth it. Giving your meat time to rest allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender, flavorful final product that’s sure to impress.

For a pork shoulder, I recommend letting it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Chicken wings can be served immediately, but letting them rest for 5-10 minutes will help keep them juicy.

Fire up your grill game with these expert tips and one of the best smokers of 2024. You’ll be the pitmaster of the block, serving up mouthwatering meats that’ll leave your friends and family begging for more.

Key Takeaway:

Think of your smoker like a precision orchestra: each element, from meat selection to wood choice, works in harmony to create a culinary masterpiece. Ensure a flavorful performance by using high-quality ingredients, consistent temperatures, strategic wood selection, and adequate resting time – the perfect pitch for a mouth-watering BBQ experience.

Conclusion

When it comes to finding the best smokers for 2024, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. It all depends on your personal preferences, cooking style, and budget. But with the right information and a little bit of research, you can find the perfect smoker to suit your needs.

SUCCESS SECRET: The secret to becoming a smoker master is embracing experimentation. Try out different wood flavors, recipes, and techniques until you find your perfect blend. And don’t be shy to venture into uncharted territory – that’s where the magic happens!

So, fire up your new smoker, invite some friends over, and get ready to enjoy the best BBQ of your life. With the right smoker and a little bit of practice, you’ll be a pitmaster in no time. Happy smoking!