9 Best Smoker Grill Combos for 2024: Top Picks and Maintenance Tips
If you love the smoky flavor of barbecue but also crave the versatility of a grill, a smoker grill combo is your ultimate backyard companion. These multi-functional units let you smoke, grill, sear, and even bake, all in one convenient package. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or perfecting your brisket recipe, a smoker grill combo offers the best of both worlds.
Choosing the right smoker grill combo can be daunting with so many options available. You need to consider factors like cooking space, fuel type, and additional features. Don’t worry; we’ve done the research for you. In this article, we’ll explore the 9 best smoker grill combos to elevate your outdoor cooking game.
Essential Factors to Consider Before Buying
When picking the best smoker grill combo, several factors can make or break your decision. Consider these essential elements to find the perfect match for your needs.
Size and Cooking Capacity
Determine the cooking capacity based on your needs. If you often cook for a crowd, get a larger model with multiple racks and a spacious grilling surface. For smaller families or casual use, a compact unit will be more efficient and space-saving.
Fuel Type and Availability
Choose the right fuel type for your lifestyle. Charcoal gives a classic smoky flavor but requires more maintenance. Gas offers convenience and ease of use, while pellet grills provide a balance of flavor and convenience. Electric models are great for consistent results without the hassle of refueling.
Price and Budget Considerations
Set a budget before you start shopping. Smoker grill combos range from budget-friendly to high-end models loaded with features. Consider what features are essential versus nice-to-have to avoid overspending.
Top 9 Best Smoker Grill Combos
Choosing the perfect smoker grill combo can be challenging with so many options available. Here are the top 9 best smoker grill combos to help you make an informed decision.
- Traeger Pro 575
The Traeger Pro 575 excels with its WiFIRE technology, allowing you to monitor and control your grill remotely. Its D2 Direct Drive provides precise temperature control, and the 575 square inches of cooking space gives you ample room for your culinary creations. - Kamado Joe Classic II
The Kamado Joe Classic II impresses with its durable ceramic construction and innovative Divide & Conquer flexible cooking system. It offers a traditional charcoal grilling experience with superior heat retention and adjustable top and bottom vents for rigorous temperature control. - Weber SmokeFire EX4
The Weber SmokeFire EX4 blends pellet grilling with reliable Weber quality. It boasts 672 square inches of dual grilling space and a temperature range of 200-600°F, ensuring versatility for smoking and searing. Its Flavorizer bars enhance taste and reduce the risk of flare-ups. - Pit Boss 700FB
The Pit Boss 700FB delivers impressive performance with its large 700 square inch cooking area and digital control board. It’s versatile, offering 8-in-1 cooking capabilities, including grilling, smoking, baking, and braising. The heavy-duty build ensures durability. - Z Grills ZPG-7002E
The Z Grills ZPG-7002E stands out with its easy-to-use digital control system and 700 square inches of cooking space. It ensures precise temperature control between 180°F and 450°F and is known for its robust construction and user-friendly features. - Camp Chef SmokePro DLX
The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX impresses with its dual LED temperature readout, allowing you to monitor internal food and grill temperatures simultaneously. With 570 square inches of cooking space, it offers versatile use for smoking, grilling, and more. - Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker
The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker offers an affordable entry into the kamado-style cooking world. Its triple-walled steel construction ensures solid heat retention, and the 447 square inch cooking area provides enough space for diverse cooking methods.
Detailed Review of Each Smoker Grill Combo
#1 First Model: Key Features and Benefits
The Traeger Pro 575 offers WiFIRE technology, allowing you to control your grill remotely via a smartphone app. It features precise temperature control, ensuring consistent cooking. With a robust build and 575 square inches of cooking space, it’s perfect for smoking large quantities of food efficiently.
#2 Second Model: Key Features and Benefits
The Kamado Joe Classic II stands out for its exceptional durability and versatile cooking system. Its Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System allows for various cooking styles simultaneously. It also boasts an air lift hinge for easy lid lifting and superior heat retention, ensuring perfect grilling every time.
#3 Third Model: Key Features and Benefits
The Weber SmokeFire EX4 combines pellet grilling with high-quality construction. Its flavorizer bars enhance food taste while the large, seamless cooking area makes handling big meals effortless. Offering an impressive temperature range, it excels in delivering delicious, smoky flavors.
#4 Fourth Model: Key Features and Benefits
The Pit Boss 700FB impresses with a generous 700 square inches of cooking space and versatile functionality. It features a digital control board for precise adjustments and a flame broiler option for direct flame searing. It’s a powerful, all-in-one grilling solution.
#5 Fifth Model: Key Features and Benefits
The Z Grills ZPG-7002E ensures precise temperature control with its advanced digital control board. The 700 square inches of cooking space accommodate large meals, and the pellet grill mechanism offers consistent heating. Its versatility allows you to grill, smoke, roast, and bake effortlessly.
#6 Sixth Model: Key Features and Benefits
The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX features a dual LED temperature readout, providing accurate internal and external temperature readings. It offers automatic auger feeding for steady pellet supply and includes ash cleanout for easy maintenance. Its compact design maximizes efficiency without sacrificing space.
#7 Seventh Model: Key Features and Benefits
The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker provides an affordable entry into kamado-style cooking. Its triple-walled insulation ensures excellent heat retention, reducing charcoal consumption. The versatile cooking system allows you to smoke low and slow or sear at high temperatures, all while maintaining consistent heat.
#8 Eighth Model: Key Features and Benefits
The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo Grill delivers dual fuel flexibility, featuring both charcoal and gas grilling options. It has a large cooking surface and heavy-gauge steel construction for durability. With multiple dampers and adjustable charcoal grates, it offers incredible temperature control.
#9 Ninth Model: Key Features and Affordability
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 gives you charcoal flavor with digital control convenience. It features a gravity-fed hopper for extended cooking sessions and an integrated temperature probe for precision. Priced competitively, it’s a great option for those seeking quality without breaking the bank.
Comparison of Features Among Top Models
Here’s a breakdown of the top smoker grill combos and how they match up in different scenarios.
Best for Large Gatherings
The Pit Boss 700FB stands out with its 700 square inches of cooking space, making it perfect for large gatherings. This smoker grill combo provides versatility with its wide temperature range, allowing you to sear, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and barbecue. Its digital control board and easy-to-use functionality ensure consistent results, ideal for feeding a crowd.
Best for Small Families
The Kamado Joe Classic II shines as the best choice for small families. Its 18-inch cooking space is compact yet efficient, offering a flexible cooking system with multiple racks. The ceramic construction ensures excellent heat retention and fuel efficiency. Plus, its versatility accommodates various cooking styles, from grilling to smoking.
Best Value for Money
The Z Grills ZPG-7002E delivers the best value for your money. It includes 700 square inches of cooking space and a precise temperature control system, ensuring versatile cooking options without breaking the bank. Its sturdy construction and reliable performance make it a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality.
User Reviews and Testimonials
You can’t make a decision without knowing what other users think. Here’s what people are saying about these smoker grill combos.
Positive Feedback and Experiences
Many users rave about the Traeger Pro 575, lauding its ease of use and precise temperature control. They appreciate its WiFIRE technology for remote monitoring. Enthusiasts of the Kamado Joe Classic II highlight its ceramic build, which retains heat exceptionally well, producing outstanding smoked foods. The Pit Boss 700FB receives accolades for its expansive cooking space, making it perfect for hosting large gatherings. Owners of the Z Grills ZPG-7002E commend its value for money, citing the versatile 8-in-1 cooking features. Meanwhile, Camp Chef SmokePro DLX fans love its easy cleaning system and digital temperature controls. The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker is praised for its affordability while still offering high-end kamado performance. Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo Grill gets high marks for providing both gas and charcoal options, satisfying diverse grilling preferences. Lastly, users of the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 are impressed by its rapid heat-up time and user-friendly design.
Critical Feedback and Common Issues
Some users report inconsistencies in the temperature control of the Weber SmokeFire EX4, noting occasional flare-ups. Owners of the Traeger Pro 575 mention the initial setup as being time-consuming. The Kamado Joe Classic II’s weight is sometimes a concern for those needing portability. Some Pit Boss 700FB users experience minor issues with the pellet hopper design, leading to jams. Feedback for the Z Grills ZPG-7002E includes occasional concerns about pellet consumption rates. The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX sometimes faces minor software glitches in its digital controller. Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker’s metal parts have been noted to require more maintenance to avoid rusting. Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo Grill users occasionally mention the challenge of managing two different cooking fuels. Lastly, some Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 users express frustration over the charcoal hopper’s occasional jamming.
Paying attention to these reviews can help you choose the best smoker grill combo fit for you.
How to Maintain Your Smoker Grill Combo
Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your smoker grill combo and ensures optimal performance for every cookout.
Regular Cleaning and Care
Clean the Grates: Scrub the cooking grates with a grill brush after each use to remove food residue and prevent buildup.
Empty the Ash: Regularly empty the ash catcher to prevent overflow and improve airflow within the smoker.
Check the Grease: Clean and empty the grease tray to avoid flare-ups and maintain hygiene.
Inspect the Vents: Ensure the vents are free from blockages to allow proper ventilation during cooking.
Wipe the Exterior: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior surfaces, keeping your smoker grill combo looking new.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips
Winterize: Before winter, thoroughly clean your smoker grill, cover it, and store it in a dry place to protect it from harsh weather.
Spring Readiness: In spring, inspect for rust or any damage, oil the grates, and ensure all parts are functioning correctly.
Summer Prep: During summer, check the propane tank or pellet supply, clean the interior thoroughly, and replace worn-out parts like gaskets.
Regular Checks: Perform monthly checks on screws, bolts, and seals, tightening and replacing as necessary to maintain stability and efficiency.
Conclusion
Choosing the right smoker grill combo can elevate your outdoor cooking experience. While models like the Traeger Pro 575 and Kamado Joe Classic II offer precise temperature control and ample cooking space, it’s essential to consider user reviews and potential issues. Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your equipment in top shape. By following seasonal maintenance practices and performing monthly checks, you’ll ensure your smoker grill combo delivers delicious results for years to come. Invest in the right model and take good care of it to enjoy countless memorable cookouts with family and friends.
