Outdoor cooking enthusiasts are always looking for the perfect way to combine the flavors of smoking and grilling. A smoker grill combo is an ideal solution. It allows them to enjoy the best of both worlds, creating delectable dishes with that signature smoky flavor while also being able to sear, grill, and cook a variety of foods.
These versatile appliances have become a must-have for those who take their outdoor cooking seriously, offering excellent culinary results in one convenient unit.
Smoker grill combos come in different sizes and styles, with various heating options such as charcoal, propane, or electric. Each option has its advantages and drawbacks, but ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences and the type of cuisine one enjoys.
Seasoned outdoor chefs agree that the quality of the smoker grill combo plays a significant role in achieving the perfect balance of smoky, tender meat and well-cooked, flavorful vegetables.
When searching for the ideal smoker grill combo, it’s essential to consider features such as cooking surface area, temperature range and control, and ease of cleaning. Material and build quality also play a crucial role in ensuring that the appliance can withstand high temperatures and last for years with proper care.
Moreover, portability and storage may be significant factors for those with limited outdoor space or who want the flexibility to transport their smoker grill combo for tailgating or camping trips.
We spent countless hours researching, testing, and reviewing various smoker grill combos to provide you with solid recommendations that cater to diverse needs and preferences. In this guide, we’ll share our top picks, delve into their features, and offer helpful tips to assist you in making an informed decision for your outdoor cooking adventures.
Best Smoker Grill Combos
We have compiled a list of the best smoker grill combos for you to achieve perfectly smoked and grilled meals.
Traeger Grills Pro Series 34 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
We recommend the Traeger Grills Pro Series 34 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker for its versatility, consistent performance, and delicious wood-fired flavor.
Pros
- Impressive wood-fired taste
- Versatile 6-in-1 cooking options
- Precision temperature control
Cons
- Heavy at 136 pounds
- No front shelf included
- Difficult to move over uneven terrain
We recently spent some time using the Traeger Grills Pro Series 34 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, and we have to admit, our barbecue game has reached new heights. The wood-fired taste is genuinely unbeatable – opting for wood pellets instead of traditional gas or charcoal is truly game-changing.
The rich flavors infused into our meats during smoking, grilling, and smoking, or even simple baking made us feel like professional pitmasters. One thing we loved about the Traeger Pro Series 34 is its 6-in-1 versatility.
It made it incredibly easy to switch between grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, braising, and barbecuing. Plus, with 884 sq. in. of cooking capacity, we never have to worry about fitting everything we’re making on the grill.
Whether we’re cooking for a group of friends or just our family, we always have ample space.
Our Pro Series 34 also features the Digital Pro Controller with Advanced Grilling Logic, which maintains a +/- 15-degree F temperature control – ensuring our meals cook to perfection every time.
However, we felt that the grill’s weight and its all-terrain wheels could use some improvement, as it was pretty difficult to maneuver it over uneven ground or when we needed to store it in our garage. Nevertheless, with its sturdy construction and reliable performance, we believe it’s worth considering for your next smoker grill combo.
Z GRILLS ZPG-550B 2022 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
If you’re seeking a versatile and efficient wood pellet grill, the Z GRILLS ZPG-550B is an excellent choice for delicious smoked and grilled meals.
Pros
- 8-in-1 functionality for various cooking methods
- Easy temperature control and automatic start-up
- Efficient pellet usage and consistent temperature
Cons
- Assembly may take some time
- Temperature swings can occur occasionally
- Shorter height may be less comfortable for taller users
Our experience with the Z GRILLS ZPG-550B Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker has been nothing short of amazing. The 8-in-1 functionality offers numerous cooking options, including grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, braising, barbecuing, and char-grilling.
Switching between different cooking methods with just a single appliance is incredibly convenient. For example, setting up the ZPG-550B was relatively simple, and once we hit the power button, the grill quickly reached our desired temperature.
The automatic start-up feature eliminates any need for starter fluid, and we were pleasantly surprised by the grill’s efficient pellet usage. During our testing, we found that we could cook for about 20 hours using just 20 lbs. of pellets.
A minor downside we noticed was the occasional temperature swing, which could vary as much as 50 degrees from the set temperature. However, these swings didn’t impact our meals’ overall flavor or tenderness. Also, individuals taller than average may find the grill height less comfortable to work with, but this is more of a personal preference issue than a specific flaw in the product.
Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco Pro Drum Smoker
We highly recommend the Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco Pro Drum Smoker for its versatile cooking options, precise temperature control, and durable construction.
Pros
- Large cooking surface and fuel capacity
- Precise and consistent temperature control
- Durable heavy-gauge steel construction
Cons
- Quite heavy, making it challenging to move
- Assembly can be a bit difficult
- Price may be steep for casual users
The Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco Pro Drum Smoker offers a sizeable 21.5-inch cooking surface, making it ideal for the competition pit master. The 17-pound fuel capacity ensures long-lasting performance, while the customizable setup with multiple meat hangers and hooks provides flexibility and convenience.
After using this smoker, we found that the unique airflow control system allows for responsive and precise control of the cooking temperatures so that food is cooked to perfection. Constructed with heavy-gauge steel, the Bronco Pro is built for durability and can withstand the rigors of competitive cooking.
Large, wagon-style wheels make it easier to move, despite its heavy weight. However, we did find that the smoker can be difficult to assemble and might not be suitable for casual users due to its price.
Overall, the Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco Pro Drum Smoker is an excellent investment for serious pit masters, offering impressive performance and reliability. The easily adjustable setup and precise temperature control make it an invaluable addition to any competition or backyard barbecue.
Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker – 550C
If you’re on the hunt for an impressively versatile and easy-to-use smoker grill combo, the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker 550C is a fantastic choice with its smart temperature control and mobile design.
Pros
- Effortless Temperature Control
- Sturdy Construction and Design
- Multiple Cooking Options
Cons
- Heavier Side at 85 Pounds
- Originates from China
- Questionable Grill Cover Quality
While testing the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker 550C, we found its smart temperature control feature super impressive. The automated electric feed system keeps the temperature between 180ºF and 450ºF, making it easy to maintain constant heat.
This smoker grill combo has a high-quality construction and design. Additionally, the digital controller successfully maintained our desired temperature within a range of plus/minus 20 degrees.
Crafted with stainless steel and a high-temperature powder coating finish, we feel confident that this product is rugged and built to last. The additional storage space offered by the front table and the bottom shelf is helpful for keeping grilling tools and condiments easily accessible.
With two rugged wheels and two locking casters, we easily moved the grill around our backyard. Finally, this product shines when it comes to versatility.
The 8-in-1 smoker grill allows us to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, sear, and char-grill, making it perfect for any outdoor cooking enthusiast. The 552 sq. inches of cooking space provided ample room, and the Z GRILLS’ 3-year quality assurance gave us peace of mind when investing in this product.
Traeger Grills Ironwood 885 Smoker Grill Combo Bundle
We highly recommend the Traeger Grills Ironwood 885 Bundle for its exceptional performance, convenience, and versatility in cooking.
Pros
- Starter bundle includes all essential accessories
- WiFIRE technology for app and voice control
- 6-in-1 cooking versatility with easy cleanup
Cons
- Heavy at 175 pounds
- Pricier than some competitors
- Traeger-brand pellets may underwhelm
Our experience with the Traeger Grills Ironwood 885 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker Bundle was nothing short of amazing. The bundle included an Ironwood 885 grill, a protective grill cover, and a bag of signature pellets, allowing us to start grilling right away.
One of the standout features, by far, is the WiFIRE technology that connects the grill to our home Wi-Fi, enabling us to control the grill from anywhere using the Traeger app. Better yet, the Alexa integration allows us to manage the grill by simply using our voice.
We also loved the versatile 6-in-1 cooking options, as we could grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ on the same grill, all while enjoying easy cleanup thanks to the porcelain grill grates. But take note: the grill is on the heavier side at 175 pounds, and some users might prefer a different brand of pellets for stronger smoke flavors.
Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker Grill (ZPG-550B3)
We highly recommend the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker Grill for those seeking a versatile and easy-to-use outdoor cooking experience.
Pros
- 8-in-1 cooking versatility
- Ample cooking area for 4-5 people
- Set and forget temperature control
Cons
- Requires electricity for operation
- Heavier than some competitors at 100 pounds
- Pellets can be more expensive than traditional charcoal
Our experience with the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker Grill has been nothing short of amazing. With its 8-in-1 versatility, we have been able to grill, smoke, and even bake on this outdoor cooker. The wide temperature range from 180 to 450 °F allows us to cook a variety of dishes for friends and family, and the 553 sq. in. cooking area is more than enough for gatherings of 4 to 5 people.
One of our favorite features of this grill is the pellet grill technology. We no longer have to deal with the hassle of starting a charcoal fire or worrying about uneven cooking temperatures.
We simply set the desired temperature, and the grill does the work for us. The pellet technology also provides an incredible wood-fired flavor that just can’t be replicated on gas or charcoal grills.
While we wholeheartedly recommend the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker Grill, it’s important to note a few potential drawbacks. First, this grill requires electricity to operate, which may be a deal-breaker for some purists.
Second, at 100 pounds, it is slightly heavier than some competitors, which could make transportation challenging. Lastly, pellets can be more expensive than traditional charcoal, so keep that in mind when considering your fuel costs.
However, overall, we believe the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker Grill is an incredible investment for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Cuisinart CPG-465 Portable Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
We recommend the Cuisinart CPG-465 Portable Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker for its 8-in-1 cooking capabilities, portability, and advanced wood fire technology.
Pros
- Offers 8-in-1 cooking versatility
- Portable with all-terrain wheels and lift handle
- Wide temperature range with digital control
Cons
- Assembly instructions may be confusing
- Potential for pellet fire issues
- Screw hole alignment problems during assembly
We recently used the Cuisinart CPG-465 Portable Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker and were impressed by its range of cooking options. With this smoker grill combo, we effortlessly cooked various dishes, from smoking and grilling to baking.
This grill has a cooking space of 465 sq. inches, which is perfect for backyard dinners or small gatherings with friends. Additionally, we love its portability.
The smoker is easy to move when not in use because of the all-terrain wheels and lift handle, which makes it ideal for outdoor events like camping and tailgating. The digital controller is user-friendly and helps you keep track of the temperature easily.
Although some users have reported issues with the assembling instructions and potential pellet fire problems, we personally haven’t faced any of these problems.
The Cuisinart CPG-465 Portable Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker is a reliable and versatile option for all outdoor cooking needs. Although it’s not without its drawbacks, the overall convenience, features, and performance make it a solid choice for people looking for the best smoker grill combo.
ASMOKE Pellet Grill and Smoker Combo
We recommend the ASMOKE Pellet Grill and Smoker Combo to outdoor cooking enthusiasts who prioritize versatility and high performance in their grill.
Pros
- Advanced auto pellet feed and temperature control system
- Large cooking area of 700 square inches
- 8-in-1 versatility for various cooking styles
Cons
- Some users reported temperature fluctuations
- Two packages shipped separately cause confusion
- Ash removal process could be improved
We recently had the pleasure of using the ASMOKE Pellet Grill and Smoker Combo and were impressed with its innovative technology. The advanced auto pellet feed system and temperature control system made it easy to maintain the desired temperature, ranging from 180°F to 500°F.
The heating fan provided 15% faster performance than other pellet grills, saving up to 20% on wood pellets. The grill offers a generous 700 square inches of cooking space, allowing us to cook for a large gathering with ease.
Additionally, the 8-in-1 versatility for grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, searing, and more made it a convenient choice for various cooking styles. We appreciated the three included BBQ grill accessories that further enhanced our outdoor cooking experience.
While we enjoyed our experience with the ASMOKE Pellet Grill and Smoker Combo, it’s not without its drawbacks. Some users reported temperature fluctuations, and the two-package shipping caused confusion.
Additionally, the ash removal process could be improved. However, overall, we found the pros to outweigh the cons, and we recommend this grill and smoker combo for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking experience.
USSC Grills Hooch Wood Pellet Grill
The USSC Grills Hooch Wood Pellet Grill is a reliable and efficient option for those looking to cook and smoke food effortlessly.
Pros
- Easy temperature control and maintenance
- Integrated food temperature sensor
- Versatile grilling capabilities
Cons
- Not suitable for those seeking a traditional charcoal grill
- May require a learning curve for pellet grill novices
- Occasional temperature regulation issues reported by users
We cooked a variety of meats on the USSC Grills Hooch Wood Pellet Grill and were impressed with its performance. The digital thermostat and integrated food temperature sensor made it easy to ensure that our food was cooked to perfection.
The grill’s versatile temperature range, from 180° to 500°F, allowed us to experiment with different cooking techniques, such as smoking, braising, baking, and traditional grilling. The grease removal system simplified the cleanup process and made maintenance a breeze.
Although the USSC Grills Hooch is an excellent option for those seeking the convenience of a wood pellet grill, it may not be the right choice for those who prefer the traditional, smoky flavor imparted by cooking with charcoal.
Additionally, some users reported difficulties in maintaining the set temperature consistently. However, we believe that the grill’s overall performance and flexibility outweigh these minor drawbacks.
Buying Guide
When looking to find the best smoker grill combo, there are several factors to consider. This buying guide will highlight important factors to consider when you are deciding to make a purchase.
Size and Cooking Space
When choosing a smoker grill combo, make sure it is large enough and has sufficient cooking space. If you plan to cook for many people or host gatherings, opt for a bigger grill. Also, ensure that the cooking area is efficient and has enough room for smoking and grilling.
Temperature Range and Control
Having a smoker grill combo with adjustable temperature controls and a wide temperature range is essential for grilling, smoking, or slow cooking.
Make sure that the temperature range of the smoker grill combo is suitable for different kinds of meat and other foods. It’s also crucial to have precise temperature control to keep the temperature consistent and even for the best outcomes.
Material and Durability
Choose a smoker grill combo made from high-quality, durable materials to ensure longevity. Stainless steel is an excellent option because it is resistant to rust and can withstand high temperatures. Look for options with sturdy construction and solid components to avoid wear and tear.
Fuel Type
It’s essential to consider the fuel type of your smoker grill combo. Options include charcoal, gas, electric, and wood pellet. Each type comes with its advantages and disadvantages, so think about your personal preferences and available resources when making a decision.
- Charcoal: Offers a distinct, smoky flavor and high heat potential but can be more challenging to control and maintain.
- Gas: Provides ease of use and quick heating but may lack the authentic smoky flavor.
- Electric: Features precise temperature control and minimal fuel consumption. However, it requires access to an electrical source.
- Wood pellet: Combines the flavor benefits of charcoal with the convenience of a gas grill, albeit at a typically higher price point.
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be valuable to you, such as side burners, storage compartments, or built-in thermometers. These features can enhance your cooking experience and make managing your projects more convenient.
What is a Smoker Grill Combo?
A smoker grill combo is a versatile outdoor cooking appliance that combines the functionality of a smoker and a grill into a single unit. This combination allows you to smoke, grill, and sometimes even roast or bake food items, offering a wide range of cooking techniques and options.
The smoker function uses indirect heat and wood chips, pellets, or charcoal to produce smoke, which imparts a unique, smoky flavor to the food. This process typically occurs at lower temperatures and over a longer duration, making it ideal for cooking meats like brisket, ribs, and pork shoulder.
On the other hand, the grill function uses direct heat from a heat source, such as gas, charcoal, or electric elements, to quickly cook food items. Grilling is perfect for searing steaks, cooking burgers, and preparing vegetables.
If you want to smoke and grill without needing two different appliances, a smoker grill combo is a great choice. They come in different sizes, styles, and fuel types to fit your needs and preferences while saving space.
What’s the difference between a grill and a smoker
Grills and smokers are both outdoor cooking appliances. However, they differ in their cooking techniques, temperature ranges, and the flavors they add to food. This is a comparison of the two.:
Cooking technique
Grill: To grill food, you place it directly over a heat source like gas, charcoal, or an electric element. The high heat cooks the food quickly, making it great for searing meats, cooking burgers, and grilling vegetables.
Smoker: Smoking uses indirect heat and wood chips, pellets, or charcoal to produce smoke, which cooks and flavors the food. The cooking process is slower and occurs at lower temperatures, making it perfect for tenderizing tougher cuts of meat and imparting a deep smoky flavor.
Temperature range
Grill: Grills usually operate at higher temperatures, ranging from 350°F to 550°F (175°C to 290°C) or even higher for searing. This high heat ensures a faster cooking process.
Smoker: Smokers generally work at lower temperatures, typically between 225°F and 275°F (107°C and 135°C). The low and slow cooking process helps to break down connective tissues in meats, resulting in tender, juicy, and flavorful dishes.
Flavor profile
Grill: Grilling imparts a distinct charred or caramelized flavor to the food due to the direct exposure to high heat. The Maillard reaction occurs, resulting in a savory, crusty exterior.
Smoker: Smoking adds a unique smoky flavor to the food, which varies depending on the type of wood used for smoking. The process also helps to retain moisture and tenderness in the meat.
Final Thoughts
Smoker grills are a great option for outdoor cooks who want the convenience of both smoking and grilling at once. Whether you’re looking to sear steak, slow-cook ribs, or smoke brisket, these combos provide a wide range of cooking techniques and options.
Keep in mind that there are various types of smoker grill combos available, so be sure to do your research and find one that fits your specific needs. With a smoker grill combo, you can easily enhance your cooking experience and make managing your projects more convenient.
