10 Best Vertical Pellet Smokers (Tested) 2023

1. Traeger Grills Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker

One of the standout features of the Pro Series 34 is its impressive cooking area, spanning a generous 884 square inches. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or preparing a feast for the family, this grill has more than enough space to accommodate your culinary ambitions.

What truly sets the Pro Series 34 apart is its versatility. With a temperature range from 180°F to 450°F, you have precise control over your cooking, allowing you to sear, smoke, grill, bake, roast, or braise with ease. The digital temperature controller ensures consistent heat distribution, eliminating any guesswork from your cooking process.

Another noteworthy feature is the 18-pound hopper capacity, which allows for extended cooking sessions without the need for constant pellet refills. This is incredibly convenient for those long, slow cooks who require a steady supply of wood pellets to infuse that smoky flavor into your dishes.

One aspect that truly impressed me is the Wi-Fi connectivity. With the Traeger app, you can monitor and adjust the grill’s temperature, set timers, and access a vast collection of mouthwatering recipes. This modern touch adds a level of convenience and control that enhances the overall cooking experience.

Now, let’s talk about the balance of this grill. While the Pro Series 34 boasts impressive features, it’s essential to consider some aspects that may not suit everyone’s needs. For instance, due to its larger size, this grill may require a dedicated space in your outdoor setup. Additionally, the weight of 136 pounds makes it less portable compared to smaller models.

2. Camp Chef PGVXXLC Wi-Fi Pellet Smoker

Let’s talk about the cooking area first. With a whopping 2,160 square inches of cooking space, you can host the ultimate backyard barbecue party and feed a crowd with ease. Whether you’re smoking racks of ribs, briskets, or a variety of meats simultaneously, this smoker has you covered.

Now, let’s dive into the temperature range. From low and slow smoking at 160°F to searing heat at 500°F, this pellet smoker offers a wide range of temperatures to suit all your cooking needs. Achieving the perfect level of smoke and tenderness has never been easier.

One standout feature of Camp Chef PGVXXLC is its Wi-Fi connectivity. Yes, you heard it right, folks! You can control and monitor your smoking sessions right from your smartphone. Simply download the Camp Chef app, connect it to your Wi-Fi-enabled smoker, and voila! You can adjust the temperature, set timers, and receive notifications all from the convenience of your phone. It’s like having a personal barbecue assistant in your pocket.

Now, let’s talk about balance. The Camp Chef PGVXXLC strikes a perfect balance between convenience and craftsmanship. Its stainless steel construction not only gives it a sleek and durable look but also ensures even heat distribution and retention. The pellet cleanout system makes maintenance a breeze, allowing you to focus on what matters most – enjoying your deliciously smoked meats.

3. Pit Boss Lockhart Platinum Series Grill

First and foremost, the cooking area of 2,059 square inches is simply phenomenal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue for a large crowd or simply enjoying a quiet family meal, this grill has you covered. The ample space allows you to smoke, grill, or even bake with ease.

The construction of the Lockhart Platinum Series Grill is top-notch. Made from heavy-duty steel and coated with porcelain, it feels incredibly sturdy and durable. This grill is built to last, withstanding the test of time and the elements.

One of the standout features of this grill is its versatility. Thanks to the vertical design, you can smoke your favorite meats to perfection. The pellet system, powered by an efficient auger, ensures a steady supply of wood pellets, delivering consistent and delicious smoky flavor every time. But that’s not all! Flip a switch, and the Lockhart transforms into a powerful grill, capable of searing steaks and burgers to mouthwatering perfection.

Controlling the temperature is a breeze with the digital control board. You have full command over the heat, allowing you to fine-tune the cooking process according to your preferences. The temperature range of 180°F to 500°F provides ample flexibility for various cooking techniques.

Cleaning up after a grilling session can be a hassle, but Pit Boss has made it a breeze with its innovative design. The removable ash pan and grease tray make maintenance quick and easy, so you can spend more time enjoying your delicious creations.

4. Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker

When it comes to wood pellet grills, the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker stands out from the crowd. As an avid barbecue enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of using this grill for quite some time, and it has truly enhanced my grilling experience.

One of the standout features of this grill is its generous cooking area. With 700 square inches of space, I can easily cook for a large gathering of friends and family without feeling limited. Whether I’m smoking a rack of ribs, grilling juicy steaks, or even baking a pizza, there’s ample room to create mouthwatering masterpieces.

The temperature control on this grill is second to none. The digital control panel, complete with an LED temperature display, allows me to precisely set the cooking temperature anywhere between 180°F to 450°F. This level of control ensures consistent and even cooking, giving me perfectly grilled and smoked dishes every time.

The automatic pellet feed system is a game-changer. With a 20-pound hopper capacity, I can load it up with my favorite wood pellets and let the grill do the rest. It intelligently feeds the pellets as needed, maintaining a steady temperature throughout the cooking process. This feature not only saves me time but also ensures a hassle-free grilling experience.

The construction of the Z GRILLS Pellet Grill Smoker is impressive. Made from heavy-duty steel with a powder-coated finish, it’s built to withstand the elements and last for years to come. The grill grates are porcelain-coated cast-iron, providing excellent heat retention and creating those coveted sear marks on my grilled meats.

5. Green Mountain Grills GMG Davy Crockett

GMG Davy Crockett offers a cooking area of 219 square inches, which is perfect for feeding a small gathering of family and friends. Despite its size, this little powerhouse delivers a temperature range from 150°F to 550°F, allowing you to smoke, grill, bake, roast, and even sear your favorite dishes to perfection.

One feature that sets the GMG Davy Crockett apart is its Wi-Fi connectivity. Using the Green Mountain Grills app, you can control the temperature and monitor the cooking process right from your smartphone. Whether you’re socializing with guests or simply relaxing, you can keep an eye on your meal’s progress without having to constantly check the smoker.

The hopper capacity of 9 pounds provides ample space for your choice of wood pellets, offering approximately 8 hours of uninterrupted cooking time. Plus, with the option to power the smoker using a 12V DC power adapter or alligator clips, you can take this grill on the road and enjoy smoky goodness wherever your adventures lead you.

Now, let’s talk about balance. The GMG Davy Crockett is a great option for those who value convenience and portability without compromising on performance. It’s easy to assemble, and its compact size makes it a breeze to transport. The Wi-Fi feature adds an extra layer of control and flexibility, ensuring that you achieve consistent results every time.

6. Louisiana Grills 65700-LGV7PC1

As an avid barbecue enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of trying out various smokers, and I must say, the Louisiana Grills 65700-LGV7PC1 has truly left a lasting impression on me. This vertical pellet smoker not only delivers outstanding performance but also comes packed with some incredible features that take your grilling game to the next level.

One of the standout aspects of the 65700-LGV7PC1 is its generous cooking area. With a spacious 707 square inches, you have ample room to smoke a variety of meats, vegetables, and even larger cuts of meat, making it ideal for hosting backyard gatherings or feeding a hungry crowd.

The heavy-duty steel construction of this smoker ensures durability and longevity. It feels sturdy and well-built, giving me confidence in its ability to withstand the test of time. The cooking grates, made of porcelain-coated cast iron, provide excellent heat retention and distribution, resulting in perfectly cooked, flavorful dishes.

One of the features I absolutely love about this smoker is its wide temperature range. From a low and slow 180°F for those tender, melt-in-your-mouth ribs, to a blazing 600°F for a quick sear on a juicy steak, the Louisiana Grills 65700-LGV7PC1 offers unparalleled versatility. The precise temperature control allows me to achieve consistent results every time.

The 14-pound hopper capacity ensures that you can enjoy hours of uninterrupted smoking without the need for constant refills. Additionally, the smoker’s digital control panel makes it incredibly easy to set and monitor the temperature, giving you full control over your cooking process.

7. Cuisinart COS-118, Vertical Charcoal Smoker

One of the standout features of the COS-118 is its generous cooking area of 510 square inches. This spacious chamber provided ample room for me to smoke a variety of meats and even experiment with different cuts. Whether it was succulent ribs, juicy brisket, or tender chicken, this smoker handled it all with ease.

The construction of the smoker is sturdy and durable, thanks to its steel material. It felt solid and well-built, ensuring that it would withstand the test of time. The dual vent system allowed for precise control of airflow and temperature, allowing me to achieve that perfect balance of smoky flavor and tenderness in my meats.

One feature that truly impressed me was the built-in analog thermometer. It provided a quick and accurate temperature reading, eliminating the need for additional gadgets or guesswork. Monitoring the temperature was a breeze, allowing me to focus on the joy of cooking without any unnecessary stress.

In terms of convenience, the COS-118 was a winner. It was relatively lightweight at 25 pounds, making it easy to move around or transport for outdoor gatherings. The compact dimensions of 22 x 24 x 43 inches ensured that it didn’t take up too much space on my patio or in storage when not in use.

8. Dyna-Glo Signature Series Charcoal Smoker & Grill

Let’s talk about the features that make this smoker an absolute delight. With its ample cooking area of 1,382 square inches, you’ll have plenty of space to smoke a whole array of meats and vegetables for a gathering of friends and family. The offset smoker design ensures optimal heat distribution, resulting in even and consistent cooking throughout. Plus, it adds that authentic smoky flavor we all crave.

One of the standout features is the built-in temperature gauge, which allows you to monitor the internal temperature with ease. No more guessing games or constant opening of the lid to check on your food. This smoker maintains heat exceptionally well, thanks to its heavy-duty construction and well-sealed design.

I particularly appreciate the adjustable racks that come with this smoker. They provide flexibility in arranging different cuts of meat or accommodating larger items like whole turkeys or briskets. And when it’s time to clean up, the ash pan comes to the rescue, making ash removal a breeze.

As for the balance, there are a few things to consider. While the Dyna-Glo Signature Series smoker excels in its smoking capabilities, it can take some time and practice to master the art of temperature control, especially for beginners. It’s worth noting that this smoker is fueled by charcoal, so be prepared for a bit of maintenance and occasional refueling during longer smoking sessions.

In summary, the Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill is a true masterpiece. It combines excellent craftsmanship, ample cooking space, and remarkable smoking capabilities. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting your grilling journey, this smoker is sure to impress and deliver smoky delights that will have your taste buds begging for more.

9. Masterbuilt Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker with Broiler

Imagine having the power to smoke your favorite meats and then finish them off with a perfect broil, all from the comfort of your backyard. Well, the Masterbuilt MB20073519 Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker with Broiler makes that dream a reality. Let’s dive into its amazing features and my experience using this exceptional smoker.

First, this smoker offers a generous cooking space of 975 square inches, providing ample room to smoke an abundance of delicious food for your friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a feast for a special occasion, you’ll have plenty of room to work with.

One of the standout features of this Masterbuilt smoker is its built-in broiler. It takes your cooking experience to a whole new level by allowing you to add that desired finishing touch of char and caramelization to your meats. With this broiler, you can achieve that perfect sear without the need for a separate grill or oven. It’s a game-changer!

The Bluetooth connectivity feature of this smoker is a godsend for tech-savvy barbecue enthusiasts like me. With the Masterbuilt mobile app, I can easily monitor and control the temperature, time, and meat probes from my smartphone. Whether I’m inside catching up with friends or tending to other party preparations, I can stay connected and ensure my food is cooked to perfection.

Speaking of temperature control, this electric smoker offers a temperature range from 100°F to 275°F, allowing for precise heat adjustments depending on the type of meat or cooking technique you prefer. It provides consistent and even heating throughout the smoking process, resulting in juicy, flavorful meats every time.

In terms of construction, the Masterbuilt MB20073519 is made of durable steel, ensuring its longevity and resistance to the elements. The overall design is well thought out, with a convenient side wood chip loading system and a large viewing window that lets you keep an eye on your masterpiece without opening the door and releasing valuable heat and smoke.

10. Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker

As an avid barbecue lover, I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker, and boy, was I impressed! This smoker is a game-changer, offering a perfect blend of convenience, functionality, and delectable smoked flavors.

One of the standout features of this smoker is its spacious cooking surface, providing a generous 725 square inches of space to smoke a variety of meats, vegetables, and even your favorite cheese. With four smoking racks, you can easily accommodate a substantial amount of food, making it ideal for gatherings and backyard parties.

Setting up the Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker was a breeze. The digital control panel allows you to effortlessly adjust the temperature, which ranges from 100°F to 275°F, giving you full control over the smoking process. The precise temperature control ensures consistent and even cooking, resulting in tender, juicy, and flavorful dishes every time.

What I particularly loved about this smoker is its versatility. It not only excels at traditional smoking, but it also offers the option to grill and roast, expanding your culinary possibilities. The electric power source eliminates the need for charcoal or propane, making it incredibly convenient and hassle-free to use. Simply plug it in, set your desired temperature, and let the smoker work its magic.

The Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker is built to last. Its sturdy construction and durable materials give it a solid and reliable feel. The smoker also comes with a 1-year warranty, providing added peace of mind.