The 5 Best Smoker Grill Combos of 2024

Introduction

When it comes to outdoor cooking, having the right equipment can transform your cooking experience.

Among the most praised cooking equipment for enthusiasts and professionals alike is the best smoker grill combo.

This versatile tool combines the functionality of smoking and grilling, allowing for a wide range of cooking techniques from slow cooking to high-heat grilling.

Whether you’re aiming for the tender, smoky flavor of a slow-cooked brisket or the seared perfection of a grilled steak, a smoker grill combo offers the best of both worlds.

In this guide, we will explore the world of smoker grill combos, exploring everything from pellet grills to charcoal grills and gas grills, ensuring you find the perfect match for your cooking space and cooking needs.

Key Points and Summary

Smoker Grill Combos provide a versatile cooking system for grilling and smoking.

Options range from pellet grills, which use wood pellets for fuel, to charcoal grills and gas grill smoker combo units, offering various ways to achieve that desired smoky flavor.

Important features to consider include temperature control, cooking area, and fuel type, which could be wood pellets, charcoal, propane, or electric.

Popular models include the Weber Smokey Mountain, Weber Kettle, Big Green Egg, and Kamado Joe, each offering unique benefits for different cooking methods.

This guide aims to help you navigate the vast options of smoker grill combos, ensuring you make an informed decision that suits your cooking techniques and lifestyle.

Understanding Smoker Grill Combos

At the heart of the best smoker grill combos is the ability to masterfully combine two distinct cooking methods: smoking and grilling.

A smoker grill combo offers the versatility needed to explore a wide range of cooking techniques, from low and slow cooking to high heat grilling for burgers and steaks.

Understanding these combos begins with differentiating between the main types available:

1. Pellet Grills – These combo grills use wood pellets as fuel, automating the smoking process with an electric feed system that ensures consistent temperature control. Most pellet grills come with advanced features like a pellet hopper sensor and optional sear box for higher direct heat.

2. Charcoal Grills – For purists who love the ritual of charcoal fire management and the smoky flavor it imparts, charcoal grill smoker combos offer a hands-on approach to slow cooking and high heat grilling for dry brined steaks. Models like the Weber Kettle and Char Griller Kamado Kooker are revered for their even heat distribution and versatility.

3. Gas Grills – A gas grill smoker combo combines the convenience of propane grill cooking with the ability to smoke using a smoker box filled with wood chips. This type is ideal for those seeking quick heat-up times and easy temperature control, with models like the Weber Genesis offering side burners and grease catchment systems for added convenience.

4. Kamado Grills – Made from ceramic, Kamado grills, such as the Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe, offer exceptional insulation, making them excellent for both smoking and grilling. Their design facilitates even heat distribution, indirect heat cooking, and can achieve high temperatures for searing.

Understanding the strengths and nuances of each type of smoker grill combo is crucial for selecting the right one.

Consider what cooking methods you prefer, the cooking space you have available, and how much effort you want to put into managing the fire.

Whether you lean towards a pellet style cooker for its convenience and precision or cherish the traditional feel of a charcoal smoker, there’s a smoker grill combo out there that’s the perfect fit for your outdoor kitchen.

Benefits of Using a Smoker Grill Combo

The allure of a smoker grill combo extends beyond its dual functionality.

These innovative cooking systems offer a range of benefits that cater to both novice cooks and seasoned grill masters.

Understanding these advantages can help you appreciate the value a smoker grill combo brings to your outdoor cooking experiences.

Versatility in Cooking Methods

One of the most compelling benefits of smoker grill combos is their unparalleled versatility.

Whether you’re in the mood for a gently smoked salmon that’s full of smoky flavor or a perfectly seared steak over high heat, these combos allow you to easily switch between smoking and grilling.

Pellet grills, for instance, offer temperature control that’s precise enough for low and slow cooking, while still capable of reaching temperatures high enough for grilling. This versatility ensures that your cooking space becomes a hub of culinary creativity.

Efficiency and Space Saving

For those with limited outdoor space, a smoker grill combo is a practical solution.

Instead of requiring two separate units—a smoker and a grill—these combos consolidate your cooking needs into one device.

This not only saves space but can also be more cost-effective than purchasing two high-quality appliances.

Whether you opt for a pellet smoker, charcoal grill, or gas grill smoker combo, you’re getting the efficiency of a combo grill that fits neatly in your cooking area.

Enhanced Flavor Profiles

The ability to combine smoking and grilling techniques can elevate the flavor of your food significantly.

Wood pellets, charcoal, and wood chips all give distinctive flavors that are difficult to replicate with other cooking methods.

From the smoky flavor of wood chunks in a pellet grill to the classic taste of charcoal fire, smoker grill combos allow for a broader exploration of flavor profiles.

Pellet grills and charcoal smokers, in particular, are renowned for their capacity to infuse deep, rich flavors into meats and vegetables alike.

Convenience and Control

Modern smoker grill combos are designed with user convenience in mind.

Features like pellet hoppers, automatic temperature control, and grease catchment systems make the cooking process more manageable and less messy.

The pellet hopper sensor in most pellet grills, for example, ensures a consistent supply of fuel for uninterrupted cooking.

Additionally, electric grills and gas grills offer easy temperature control with the turn of a knob, allowing for precise cooking without constant monitoring.

Durability and Quality

High-quality smoker grill combos are built to last, featuring durable materials like cast iron grates and ceramic grills.

These materials not only withstand the rigors of frequent use but also contribute to even heat distribution and high heat grilling performance.

Brands like Weber Grill, Kamado Joe, and Big Green Egg are synonymous with quality, offering models that can serve as a long-term investment for your outdoor cooking adventures.

Investing in the best smoker grill combo offers a combination of versatility, efficiency, flavor enhancement, convenience, and durability.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore different cooking techniques or a professional seeking the perfect smoke flavor, a smoker grill combo is an invaluable addition to your cooking toolkit.

By understanding these benefits, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your cooking preferences and lifestyle, ensuring countless enjoyable meals are prepared in your outdoor kitchen.

Top 5 Best Smoker Grill Combos of 2024

1. Best Overall Grill Smoker Combo – Kamado Joe Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill

In our assessment, Kamado grills, especially the ceramic varieties, stand out as some of the most versatile grills available today.

Excelling not only in grilling and smoking but also serving well as ovens for pizza or bread, these grills might require an additional heat deflector accessory for optimal smoking performance.

Powered by charcoal, Kamado grills boast exceptional insulation, enabling them to maintain consistent temperatures for extended periods without constant supervision.

While the Big Green Egg is a fantastic option, we find the Kamado Joe Classic II offers significant value for the cost.

Available in various sizes, the 18″ model strikes the perfect balance for most, though the Big Joe is available for those needing more grilling area.

The 18″ version gives 406 square inches of cooking space, capable of reaching smoking temperatures around 225°F and searing temperatures up to 750°F.

Kamado Joe introduces innovative features like the Divide and Conquer cooking system, allowing for multi-level grilling of different foods simultaneously.

Another notable innovation is the airlift hinge, which significantly reduces the dome’s weight by 96% – a welcome feature for a grill of this caliber.

What is awesome:

Versatility and simplicity – The Kamado Joe excels as a grill smoker combo, thanks to its two-tier rack system and ease of converting to a smoker with the heat deflector. It simplifies the low and slow cooking process significantly.

Low maintenance charcoal management – Although some may hesitate at the thought of charcoal due to perceived maintenance, the Kamado Joe’s superior insulation minimizes temperature adjustments for slow cooking.

What is not so awesome:

On the higher end of the price spectrum – the quality construction comes at a cost, particularly for those requiring a larger cooking area for big groups.

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2. Best Budget Grill Smoker Combo – Weber Original Kettle Premium

The Weber Kettle stands as a timeless and affordable grill, renowned not only for its grilling prowess but also for its surprising adaptability as a smoker with a bit of ingenuity.

Originating in 1952, the Weber Kettle has become a staple in countless backyards globally, celebrated for its simplicity and efficiency.

However, many may not be aware that with a strategic arrangement of charcoal, this iconic grill can transform into an effective smoker.

Further enhancing its versatility, there are aftermarket accessories like the Slow ‘N Sear, a durable 304 stainless steel accessory designed to fit snugly into the Weber Kettle.

It comes with a charcoal basket alongside a water reservoir, optimizing space for your food and enabling extended cooking sessions on a single charcoal load.

Available in a variety of sizes, the Weber Kettle allows for customization based on your cooking space needs.

While it’s tempting to opt for a smaller size, for smoking, a larger surface area is advantageous. The 22″ model is an excellent balance of size and price, but for those requiring more cooking area, the 26″ variant stands out as an exceptional choice.

What is awesome:

Durable construction – Crafted from pressed steel coated in porcelain enamel, the Weber Kettle promises durability and resistance against rust, though a grill cover is recommended for outdoor storage.

Efficient heat control – Despite its affordability, the Weber Kettle offers remarkable temperature control, maintaining stable temperatures for extended periods and utilizing fuel efficiently.

Portability – Equipped with two wheels, this grill is effortlessly portable, making it an ideal companion for camping trips.

What is not awesome:

Limited smoking space – Techniques such as the Snake method, while effective for smoking, do restrict the available cooking area for smoking meat.

Due to its versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness, the Weber Kettle earns our endorsement as the top choice for the best charcoal grill.

For those prioritizing budget without sacrificing quality, it also ranks as our favorite grill smoker combo, highlighting its exceptional value in the realm of outdoor cooking.

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3. Best Combo Pellet Grill – Weber SmokeFire Gen 2

For those who prioritize cutting-edge features over traditional cooking methods, pellet grills equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity are the ultimate choice for a multifunctional cooker.

Despite being labeled as pellet grills, it’s common for these devices to fall short in reaching the high temperatures needed for effective searing due to their specific design constraints.

In response to this challenge, Weber introduced its SmokeFire series to the pellet grill market, showcasing its innovative approach to combining smoking and grilling.

The SmokeFire series, available in the EX4 and EX6 models, offers a substantial cooking space. The EX4 model provides 672 square inches, while the EX6 expands the cooking area to a vast 1008 square inches.

This series stands out for its ability to achieve a maximum temperature of 600°F, a significant advancement over the typical 450-500°F limit of most pellet grills, making it adept at both low and slow cooking and high heat grilling.

The incorporation of stainless steel flavorizer bars by Weber enhances heat distribution from the firepot across the grill, improving searing capabilities.

What impresses about the SmokeFire is its reimagined pellet hopper and auger design. By placing the 22-pound hopper at the back of the grill, Weber has created a system that uses a shorter, inclined auger, significantly reducing the chances of annoying pellet jams. This design choice not only improves the functionality but also enhances the overall smoking and grilling experience by ensuring a consistent fuel flow.

Moreover, the SmokeFire excels as a smoker grill combo through its unique open design, which allows for higher direct heat. This feature is a boom for those seeking to master both smoking and grilling within one device. Adding to its user-friendly attributes is the pellet hopper sensor, which alerts you via your phone when the pellet supply runs low, ensuring uninterrupted cooking sessions.

However, the SmokeFire series is not without its drawbacks. The attempt to innovate with a new grease catchment system has not been as successful as hoped, though this can be somewhat mitigated by placing aluminum catch pans beneath the grates for easier cleanup. Additionally, the base model offers minimal shelving and storage space, potentially requiring further investment in front or side shelf add-ons for those needing more prep and storage areas.

Weber’s SmokeFire series, with its ability to reach temperatures ranging from 200-600°F and equipped with a meat probe expandable to four, caters to a wide range of cooking needs. Constructed with a porcelain-enameled lid, cook box, and heat distribution plate, alongside a stainless steel cart frame, side table, and flavorizer bars, the SmokeFire series promises durability and longevity, backed by a 3-5 year warranty.

This innovative approach by Weber to the pellet grill design signifies a significant step forward in the smoking and grilling market, offering a solution that bridges the gap between traditional and modern cooking techniques.

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4. Best Tabletop Grill Smoker Combo – Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill

For those looking for a more compact solution that doesn’t compromise the ability to grill and smoke, the Ninja Woodfire presents a great option.

Typically, electric grills are not our first recommendation, given their limitations compared to gas or charcoal grills. However, they become a viable choice for those in apartments or those living in places with stringent fire regulations.

Ninja has ingeniously integrated smoking capabilities into this electric grill. By simply filling the smoke box with wood pellets and selecting the smoke mode, users can infuse their dishes with that cherished smoky flavor.

Additionally, the grill offers the flexibility to mix cooking methods, such as smoking wings before giving them a final crisp using an air fry or grill function.

What is awesome:

Exceptional smoke flavor – while electric grills typically fall short when compared to their gas or charcoal counterparts, the Ninja Woodfire’s ability to burn wood pellets ensures a great smoke flavor.

Portability – Its compact and lightweight design means this grill can easily be stored away or transported in your car for camping or tailgating adventures.

Ease of cleaning – The grill’s design simplifies cleanup, with grill grates that are removable for thorough scrubbing and a smoke box and drip pan that can be easily emptied and cleaned.

What is not so awesome:

Size could be improved – Although its small footprint enhances portability, a slightly wider cooking surface would elevate the Ninja Woodfire’s versatility, allowing for a greater variety of dishes to be prepared simultaneously.

The Ninja Woodfire stands out as a novel solution for those requiring the convenience of an electric grill with the added bonus of smoking capabilities. Its innovative approach to combining different cooking modes, coupled with its ease of use and maintenance, positions it as a notable contender for those seeking a multifunctional, space-saving cooking device.

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5. Budget Grill Smoker Combo – Char-Griller Akorn Kamado

Capturing the essence of Kamado grilling at an accessible price point, the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado offers a practical solution for those who admire the features of the Kamado Joe but are hesitant about the investment.

This grill mirrors the iconic Kamado design, yet opts for 22 gauge steel for the exterior and porcelain-coated steel for the interior, a strategic choice aimed at affordability. While this decision effectively reduces costs, it also means relinquishing some benefits inherent to traditional ceramic Kamado grills, including the longevity and maintenance concerns associated with steel’s susceptibility to rust.

The Akorn Kamado boasts a primary cooking area of 314 square inches, supplemented by a 133 square inch warming rack, with cast iron grates enhancing the cooking experience.

What is awesome:

Exceptional value – For those eager be involved in Kamado grilling without breaking the bank, this grill provides a viable entry point, capable of achieving high-heat searing as well as enduring the prolonged cooking times required for dishes like brisket.

Effortless cleanup – The inclusion of a removable ash pan simplifies cleanup, allowing for quick disposal of ash post-cooking.

What is not so awesome:

Compromised build quality – While the lower price point is a selling point, it’s understandable that the Char-Griller Kamado Akorn may not offer the same durability or temperature consistency as higher-end models like the Kamado Joe, with increased wear and potential for component failure over time.

Increased monitoring – Particularly for extended, low-temperature cooks, this grill demands more vigilance from the user, especially under adverse weather conditions, to maintain the desired smoking environment.

While the Char-Griller Kamado Akorn might not become a family heirloom, it stands as a commendable and affordable choice for those desiring the versatility to both grill and smoke within the Kamado style.

This model allows enthusiasts to explore a wide range of cooking techniques, from searing to smoking, without the steep investment typically associated with Kamado grills.

Check out the latest price on Amazon

How to Choose the Best Smoker Grill Combo

Choosing the best smoker-grill combo involves considering several key factors that align with your cooking preferences, space, and budget. Here are the most critical aspects to evaluate:

1. Fuel Type: Decide between pellet, charcoal, gas, or even electric grills. Pellet grills offer ease of use and precise temperature control thanks to wood pellets and digital controls. Charcoal grills provide that authentic smoky flavor but require more effort in temperature management. Gas grills offer convenience and quick heat-up times, while electric grills are suitable for those with limited outdoor space or restrictions on open flames.

2. Cooking Space: Consider the cooking area size you need. If you often host large gatherings, look for a grill combo with plenty of cooking space. Combo grills with separate smoker boxes or additional cooking systems can offer more versatility.

3. Temperature Control: Essential for both low and slow cooking and high heat grilling, temperature control mechanisms vary by type. Pellet grills are known for their superior control, while Kamado grills, like the Big Green Egg, retain heat efficiently for consistent temperatures.

4. Durability and Quality: Look for smoker grill combos made with high-quality materials like cast iron grates or ceramic grills for longevity. Features like aluminum catch pans and grease trays contribute to easier maintenance and durability.

5. Extra Features: Some grill smoker combos come with additional features like side burners, smoker boxes, grease catchment systems, or pellet hopper sensors. Consider which features might enhance your cooking experience, such as optional sear boxes for high-heat grilling or Wi-Fi controls for pellet grills.

By carefully considering these factors, you can find a smoker grill combo that fits your specific needs, whether you’re a fan of the traditional charcoal grill or looking for the modern convenience of a pellet smoker.

FAQs About a Grill Smoker Combo and a Pellet Grill

Can I use a smoker-grill combo in a small outdoor space?

Absolutely! Many smoker grill combos, especially pellet grills and electric grills, are designed with compact cooking spaces in mind. Look for models with a smaller footprint or vertical design to maximize your area.

Is a pellet grill worth the investment?

For many, the answer is yes. Pellet grills offer unparalleled convenience in temperature control and versatility, making them ideal for both slow cooking and high-heat grilling. The pellet hopper sensor and automatic wood pellet feeding system also make it easier to maintain consistent cooking temperatures.

How do I maintain the smoky flavor when using a gas grill smoker combo?

Utilize a smoker box filled with wood chips or wood chunks to get a smoky flavor to your food. Gas grills can also benefit from indirect heat cooking methods to mimic the slow cooking process of traditional smokers.

Can I achieve high heat grilling with a smoker grill combo?

Yes, many smoker grill combos are capable of high heat grilling. Look for models with dedicated grill areas, optional sear boxes, or higher direct heat capabilities. Kamado grills and pellet grills with sear box attachments are particularly adept at reaching high temperatures.

What’s the best smoker grill combo for beginners?

For beginners, a pellet grill might be the most user-friendly option, offering easy temperature control and versatile cooking options without the steep learning curve of charcoal or wood smokers. Models with a sear box and easy grease management systems are great starting points.

Conclusion

Selecting the best smoker-grill combo is a journey that balances personal preferences, cooking styles, and practical considerations like space and budget.

Whether you’re drawn to the simplicity and tradition of a charcoal smoker, the convenience of a gas grill, the precision of a pellet smoker, or the versatility of a kamado grill, there’s a combo out there that’s perfect for your cooking adventures.

Remember to consider the type of fuel, the size of the cooking area, temperature control features, durability, and any extra features that might enhance your cooking experience. By doing so, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying delicious, smoky flavors from the comfort of your own backyard.

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