There is nothing like the taste of smoked meat. Whether it’s brisket, pork shoulder, or rack of ribs, smoking meat low and slow produces some of the most succulent and flavorful dishes you’ll ever taste. If you’re looking for the best vertical smoker for your next cookout, look no further. In this article, we’ll outline the features to look for when purchasing a vertical smoker and provide reviews of some of the best models on the market. So, fire up that grill and let’s get smoking!
Best Vertical Smoker 2023 Comparison Table
| Photo | Name | Check Price | Brand | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC- Charcoal Smoker | Check Price | Dyna-Glo | • Charcoal and ash management system • improved burn efficiency • height-adjustable cooking grates • Easy to assemble • Easy to use • Temperature Control |
 | Realcook Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill | Check Price | Realcook | • PROTABLE & EASY ASSEMBLY • MULTI-LAYERED DESIGN • LARGE CAPACITY • DUAL ACCESS DOOR DESIGN • Easy to use • Infuses Flavor • Easy to clean • Easy to assemble |
 | PIT BOSS PBV3P1 Vertical Pellet Smoker, Copper | Check Price | PIT BOSS | • Fully programmable • Easy to assemble • Auto-start and auto shut-off • Temperature Control system • Easy to use |
 | Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Charcoal Smoker & Grill | Check Price | Dyna-Glo | • Cool-touch spring lid grip • Easy to use • Accurate • Durable • Portable |
 | Cuisinart COS-244 Vertical Propane Smoker | Check Price | Cuisinart | • Built-in Thermometer • Adjustable • Removable Shelves • Ideal Dimensions • Adjustable |
 | Dyna-Glo DGX780BDC-D 36" Vertical Charcoal Smoker | Check Price | Dyna-Glo | • Charcoal & ash management system • Easy to assemble • Easy to use • Temperature control system • Ample cooking area |
 | Bradley Smoker Digital 4-Rack Electric Outdoor BBQ Smoker | Check Price | Bradley Smoker | • Large Capacity Oven • Digital • Easy to clean • High-Quality Material • Easy to assemble • Temperature control • Ideal dimensions |
 | Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS681VCS-D Vertical Charcoal Smoker | Check Price | Dyna-Glo | • Cool-touch spring door grip • Charcoal & Ash Management System • Durable • Temperature control system • Portable |
1) Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker
The Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker boasts a porcelain-enamelled steel construction for long-lasting durability. The ash management system and removable steel ash pan make it easy to keep the smoker clean and tidy, while the naturally rising heat ensures greater efficiency and improved smoke flavour. An adjustable flue allows you to control the amount of smoke, while a stainless-steel thermometer ensures accurate temperature control. This smoker is ideal for those who want to enjoy delicious smoked food without all the hassle.
2) 20-inch Real cook Vertical Smoker Grill
Looking for a new smoker grill that will help you make the best food possible? Check out the Real cook 20-inch Vertical Smoker Grill! This grill has a multi-layered design that includes a latch locking system, special bottom vent design, built-in thermometer, bottom damper, and ash collector. These features make it easy to use and clean, while also being very durable. Additionally, this smoker grill is portable and easy to assemble. It also has a large capacity, making it perfect for cooking for a large group of people. Finally, the two-access door design makes it easy to get to your food without having to remove the entire lid.
3) Copper PIT BOSS Vertical Pellet Smoker
When it comes to smoking food, the Copper PIT BOSS Vertical Pellet Smoker is a top-of-the-line option. This smoker features a digital LED readout that makes it easy to monitor internal temperatures, plus, there’s a meat probe included so you can always ensure your food is cooked to perfection. Additionally, the four porcelain cooking grids make it easy to cook multiple items at once, and if you need to deflect heat away from certain areas, the heat deflector is a great way to do so. Best of all, this smoker can be used for up to 24 hours at a time. Plus, it’s fully programmable and features an auto-start igniter and auto shut-off feature.
4) Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill
The Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill is the perfect choice for smoking aficionados who demand superior results. This smoker features heavy-duty construction with a steel body and chrome-plated grates, ensuring that it will stand up to the elements and provide years of use. The cool-to-touch spring lid grip makes it easy to open and close the lid, while the stainless temperature gauge ensures that your food will be cooked to perfection. Oversized steel wheels make it easy to move this smoker around your backyard or patio, making it the perfect addition to any outdoor cooking space.
5) Black Cuisinart Vertical Propane Smoker
The Black Cuisinart Vertical Propane Smoker is a great way to get started in smoking. With its easy temperature control and smoke control, it’s perfect for those just starting. Additionally, the four removable shelves make it easy to customize your smoking experience, and with the built-in thermometer, you can always be sure that your food is cooked to perfection. Finally, the seal-tight twist-lock door ensures that all the flavour stays in – making this smoker a great choice for those who want to enjoy delicious smoked foods.
Best Vertical Smoker 2023-Guide
What Is a Vertical Smoker?
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A vertical smoker is a type of smoker that features a tall, cylindrical design. This type of smoker typically has multiple shelves or racks that can be used to smoke different types of food at the same time. Vertical smokers are well-suited for smoking large cuts of meat, as well as smaller items like fish and vegetables.
Vertical smokers typically use charcoal or wood as their fuel source, which allows them to produce a lot of smoke. This smoke surrounds and penetrates the food, infusing it with flavour. Most vertical smokers also have a water pan located near the bottom of the unit. This pan helps to create humidity inside the smoker, which prevents the food from drying out during the smoking process.
Why Would I Need a Vertical Smoker?
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One of the great things about smoking meat is that it infuses the food with a unique flavour that cannot be replicated through any other cooking method. If you enjoy smoked meats, then you may be wondering why you would need a vertical smoker. Here are some reasons:
- Vertical smokers allow for more consistent smoking. Because the heat and smoke rise in a vertical smoker, the meat is exposed to a more consistent flavour. This is especially important if you are smoking large cuts of meat like brisket or pork shoulder, which can take hours to cook.
- Vertical smokers are more efficient. Because the heat and smoke rise in a vertical smoker, less fuel is required to maintain the temperature. This makes vertical smokers more efficient and cost-effective in the long run.
- Vertical smokers are easier to use. Many vertical smokers come with features that make them easy to use, such as digital controls and automatic shutoffs. This makes vertical smokers a great option for those who are new to smoking meat.
If you enjoy smoked meats, then a vertical smoker is a great way to infuse your food with flavour. Vertical smokers are more efficient and easier to use, making them a great option for both experienced and novice smokers alike.
Types Of Vertical Smokers
There are three main types of vertical smokers: offset, water and bullet. Each type has its own set of pros and cons that make it more or less suitable for different situations. Here’s a quick overview of each type:
Offset Smokers
Offset smokers are the most popular type of smoker, thanks to their versatility and ease of use. They typically have two chambers – one for the charcoal or wood fuel, and one for the food – with a connecting door in between. This allows you to control the temperature in the cooking chamber by opening or closing the door, which is handy if you’re smoking something delicate like fish. Offset smokers can be used for both hot and cold smoking, making them extremely versatile. However, they can be tricky to master, and it’s important to make sure that the door is sealed properly to prevent heat and smoke from escaping.
Water Smokers
Water smokers, also known as bullet smokers, are a type of offset smoker that uses water in the cooking chamber to help regulate the temperature. This makes them ideal for smoking large cuts of meat like brisket, as the constant supply of moisture prevents the meat from drying out. Water smokers tend to be easier to use than traditional offset smokers, as you don’t have to worry about controlling the airflow. However, they can be more difficult to clean, as the water pan needs to be emptied after each use.
Bullet Smokers
Bullet smokers are the common type of smoker that are frequently used by beginner smokers. They feature a single chamber that’s used for both cooking and smoking, with a small water pan placed underneath the grate to catch any drippings. Bullet smokers are extremely easy to use, as there’s no need to control the airflow or temperature. However, they’re not as versatile as other types of smokers, and can only be used for hot smoking.
So, there you have it – a quick overview of the three main types of vertical smokers. Each type has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs. When it comes to smoking meat, offset smokers are the most popular choice thanks to their versatility, while bullet smokers are the simplest option for those just starting. Whichever type you choose, make sure you follow the instructions carefully to get the best results.
Things To Consider Before Buying a Vertical Smoker?
When it comes to smokers, there are a lot of different options to choose from. If you’re looking for a smoker that can handle large quantities of food, then a vertical smoker might be the best option for you. But before you buy a vertical smoker, there are a few things you should consider.
Capacity
How much food do you need to smoke at one time? Vertical smokers come in a variety of sizes, so make sure you choose one that will be able to accommodate the amount of food you need to smoke.
Temperature Control
One of the most important things to consider when smoking food is temperature control. Make sure the vertical smoker you choose has good temperature control so you can smoke your food at the perfect temperature.
Fuel Type
Vertical smokers can be powered by either charcoal or gas. Choose the fuel type that best suits your needs.
Ease of Use
When it comes to smokers, ease of use is important. You don’t want to have to struggle to use your smoker, so make sure you choose one that is easy to use.
Price
Vertical smokers can range in price from fairly affordable to quite expensive. Decide how much you’re willing to spend on a smoker before you start shopping.
The size of the smoker
Vertical smokers come in a variety of sizes, so you’ll want to make sure you choose one that’s large enough to accommodate your needs. If you’re only smoking for a small group of people, a smaller smoker will suffice. But if you plan on smoking for larger groups of people, or if you want to smoke large cuts of meat, you’ll need a larger smoker.
Keep these things in mind when shopping for a vertical smoker and you’ll be sure to find the perfect one for your needs.
Advantages Of Vertical Smokers
Vertical smokers offer many advantages over traditional smokers and are becoming increasingly popular for both home use and commercial applications. Here are just a few of the reasons why vertical smokers may be the right choice for your next smoking project:
- Increased Efficiency: Vertical smokers offer better heat retention and airflow, meaning that you’ll use less fuel overall to achieve the same results. This can save you money in the long run, as well as reduce your environmental impact.
- Greater Versatility: Vertical smokers can be used for a variety of different foods, including meats, fish, vegetables, and even bread and desserts. This flexibility means that you can smoke whatever you like, whenever you want.
- Perfect Results Every Time: With a vertical smoker, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly smoked food every time. This is because the heat and smoke are evenly distributed throughout the smoking chamber, resulting in evenly cooked food.
- Easy to Use: Vertical smokers are very easy to use, even for those with no prior smoking experience. They typically come with clear instructions and easy-to-use controls, so you’ll be able to get started right away.
- Compact Size: Vertical smokers are much more compact than traditional smokers, making them ideal for small spaces. This means that you can easily set up your smoker on a patio or deck without taking up too much space.
- Attractive Design: Vertical smokers typically have a sleek, modern design that will look great in any outdoor setting. This makes them perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying the outdoors.
If you’re looking for a smoker that offers all of these advantages and more, then a vertical smoker may be right for you. With their increased efficiency, versatility, and easy-to-use controls, vertical smokers offer the perfect solution for anyone who loves to smoke food.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right size vertical smoker?
The size of vertical smoker you need will depend on how much food you want to cook at one time. If you plan on cooking for large groups, then you will need a larger smoker. Otherwise, a smaller smoker will suffice.
How do I season my new vertical smoker?
Before using your vertical smoker for the first time, you will need to season it. This process helps to cure the paint and prevents it from rusting. To season your smoker simply cooks a small amount of food in it.
How do I clean my vertical smoker?
Cleaning your vertical smoker is important to prevent rust and ensure that it lasts for many years. The best way to clean your smoker is to use a mild soap and water solution. You can also use a commercially available grill cleaner.
What are some tips for using a vertical smoker?
- Make sure your smoker is level. This will ensure even cooking and prevent hot spots.
- Preheat your smoker before adding your food. This will help your food cook evenly.
- Add wood chips or pellets to your smoker for flavour. Soak the wood chips in water for 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker. Place your food on the racks in the smoker, and try to space it out so that there is room for air to circulate.
- Check on your food periodically, and turn it if necessary, so that it cooks evenly on all sides.
- When your food is cooked, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious smoked food!
What are some common problems with vertical smokers?
One common problem with vertical smokers is that it can be difficult to control the temperature. This is because the heat source is at the bottom of the smoker, so it’s hard to evenly distribute the heat. Another common problem is that vertical smokers can produce a lot of smoke, which can be overwhelming and make it difficult to see what’s going on inside. Lastly, vertical smokers can be more expensive than other types of smokers.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s the verdict? Are vertical smokers worth the investment? In short, yes. Vertical smokers are a great way to smoke meat and produce evenly cooked results without having to constantly rotate your food. They’re also easy to use and relatively affordable, making them a great option for anyone looking for an entry-level smoker. If you’re in the market for a new smoker, we highly recommend giving one of these bad boys a try. Thanks for reading!
My name is David Bily and I’m the founder of smokermag.com – a blog dedicated to the art of smoking, grilling, and barbecuing. I’m passionate about all things barbecue-related and have decades of experience in finding the perfect recipe, choosing the best accessories, and mastering techniques for achieving great results every time. Come join the conversation and explore BBQSmokersblog.com to get inspired!