Wondering how to take grilling to the next level? Try a charcoal smoker for deliciously smoky food that's sure to impress!

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Charcoal Smoker for You!

Are you looking for the best charcoal smoker out there? Are you ready to find the perfect one for your backyard cooking needs? Whether you’re a novice griller or an experienced pro, the right charcoal smoker can take your grilling game to the next level. A charcoal smoker offers a unique type of heat and smoke that traditional grills can't match. Not only do they provide an intense smoky flavor, but they can also reach higher temperatures than most other grills which are great for searing steaks or slow-smoking brisket. Plus, with modern designs, you don't have to worry about losing heat or having uneven levels of smoke across your food. With a charcoal smoker, you'll get more tender and juicy results every time. They are also quite easy to use, so even if you're new to outdoor cooking, it won't take long before you become a master of this ancient art form and serve up delicious smoky dishes for your friends and family to enjoy. So why not give it a try today? You'll be glad you did!

5 Steps From Start to Finish on Charcoal Grill Use:

💠1 - Prepare the Charcoal Smoker: Before you begin, make sure you prepare your charcoal smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This includes setting up the smoker, filling the firebox with lump charcoal, and adding wood chips for smoke flavour.

💠2 - Preheat the Smoker: Allow time for your smoker to preheat before adding food to it. The ideal temperature is between 225°F and 275°F. You can monitor smoker temperatures with a digital thermometer or by using a wireless remote thermometer/thermostat device.

💠3 - Add Food: When ready, add the food to be cooked onto the grilling rack inside your charcoal smoker. Close the lid and allow for an even cooking process throughout the entire grill surface area by periodically turning food over as needed.

💠4 - Monitor Temperatures and Smoke Output: During cooking, use a digital thermometer or remote thermometer device to monitor temperatures in different parts of your cooker as needed and replace charcoal if necessary using long-handled tongs to avoid burns from hot coals (not recommended during longer smokes). Also monitor smoke output from both vents at all times, adjusting them so that smoke comes out evenly from both sides while still creating an adequate amount of heat in the firebox area.

💠5 - Clean Up & Store: Once finished cooking, allow time for your cooker to cool down before taking apart any parts and cleaning them according to manufacturer instructions or recommendations (e.g., wiping down surfaces with warm water and soap). Finally store all components into their storage bags or containers before putting away until next needed use

How We Choose

In order to ensure that our readers are presented with the most accurate and comprehensive review of the best products on the market, we have gone through an extensive selection process. Our team has personally read hundreds of product reviews to narrow down our options to only the top-rated products available.

We analyzed each product based on several key factors: quality, durability, functionality, and affordability. We also took into consideration any unique features or benefits that each product offered. After careful research and analysis, we were able to identify the 'Best of List' of products that stood out from the rest.

Our team has thoroughly reviewed these products and they have proven themselves to be of superior quality and value. Whether you're looking for a specific feature or want a reliable product within your budget, Lifestyle Lineup has got you covered with this definitive list of the best products on the market today. Below, we have a Lineup of our preferred products so you can Live a Life you Love!

Oklahoma Joe's 19402088 Rambler Portable Charcoal Grill, Black

Oklahoma Joe's Rambler Charcoal Grill

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

✅ Heavy-duty Steel construction 

✅ Thick cast-iron grates 

✅ Height-adjustable charcoal tray 

✅ Large air dampers 

✅ Full-size, removable ash pan

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Why We Love It

Oklahoma Joe's 19402088 Rambler Portable Charcoal Grill is a high quality portable grill perfect for tailgating and camping trips. It is built to last with heavy-duty steel construction and thick cast-iron grates that produce excellent sear marks. The height-adjustable charcoal tray allows you to control the temperature, cooking at high heat or low and slow. Large air dampers provide accurate airflow control to maintain consistent temperatures. After cooking, the full-size removable ash pan makes clean up quick and easy. Overall, this grill has all the features needed to cook amazing food on the go. The durable and portable design means you can enjoy char-grilled food wherever your adventures take you. Oklahoma Joe's Rambler Portable Charcoal Grill is a must-have for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.

Oklahoma Joe's Rambler Charcoal Grill Review
Royal Gourmet CC2036F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker Burch BBQ Barrel Grill and Smoker Combo, 1200 Square Inches for Large Event Gathering Patio and Backyard Cooking, Black

Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill 

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

✅ 668 sq. in. Cooking Grates

✅ 260 sq. in. Warming Rack

✅ 272 sq. in. Offset Smoker

✅ Heavy Gauge Porcelain-Enameled Steel Wire

✅ 3-Level Height Adjustable Charcoal Pan

✅ Side Charcoal Door

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Why We Love It

The Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker is an excellent addition to your outdoor kitchen. With a tremendous cooking space of 668 square inches on the cooking grates, a 260 square inch warming rack, and a 272 square inch offset smoker all made of heavy gauge porcelain-enameled steel wire, you can easily feed a large crowd. The offset smoker is firmly attached to the main body for good circulation of heat and smoke, and it also provides additional grilling or smoking cooking space for small side dishes. With its 3-level height adjustable charcoal pan that holds up to 3.5kg/7.7 lb. of coal, this grill offers better heat control and energy efficiency for larger events. Plus, its side charcoal door allows you to tend up to 1.2kg/2.6 lb of coal easily without removing the entire grates, and its removable grease drip cup helps make cleanup easier than ever before! From backyard cookouts to large gatherings, the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker is sure to impress with its outstanding performance and convenience!

Royal Gourmet® CC2036F 36-Inch Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill

Dyna-Glo Signature Series Charcoal Smoker & Grill

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

✅ Five Chrome-Plated Cooking Grates

✅ Total Cooking Space of 1382 Square Inches

✅ Heavy-Gauge Steel Body Construction

✅ Temperature Gauge with Smoke Zone

✅ Cool-Touch Spring Lid Grip

✅ Oversized Steel Wheels for Mobility

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Why We Love It

The Dyna-Glo Signature Series Charcoal Smoker & Grill is the perfect addition to any outdoor kitchen. With five chrome-plated cooking grates and a total cooking space of 1382 square inches, you can easily feed a large group of people. The heavy-gauge steel body construction ensures long-lasting durability even in the toughest conditions. Plus, the temperature gauge features a smoke zone which indicates the ideal temperatures for infusing the perfect amount of smoking flavor. For added convenience, this smoker & grill also includes a cool-touch spring lid grip that allows you to access fuel and food safely. It also has an oversized steel wheel for easy mobility before and after use. With top-notch performance, convenience, and versatility, as well as two years limited warranty, the Dyna-Glo Signature Series Charcoal Smoker & Grill is sure to become your favorite outdoor kitchen appliance!

Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker Grill
Sophia & William Heavy-Duty Charcoal Smoker Grills Extra Large Outdoor BBQ Gill with Offset Smoker, 941 SQ.IN. Cooking Area with Warming Tray,Push-out Ash Tray for Large Event Gathering, Black

Sophia & William Heavy-Duty Charcoal Smoker 

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

✅ Offset Charcoal Smoker

✅ Large Cooking Area

✅ One-Piece Smoker Chamber

✅ Heavy Duty Grill

✅ Unique Design

✅ 12-Month Quality Assurance

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Why We Love It

The Sophia & William Heavy-Duty Charcoal Smoker Grill is the perfect addition to any outdoor kitchen. Featuring an impressive 941 square inches of total cooking area, this offset charcoal smoker has all the space you need for large groups or parties. Its one-piece smoking chamber seals in heat and smoke for even and consistent cooking, while its heavy-duty steel construction ensures durability over time. It also includes five adjustable dampers and an integrated temperature gauge that let you maintain the desired temperature with ease. In addition to being highly efficient and durable, this smoker grill also features a unique design that makes it easy to use. With its large wheels and multiple hooks, you can move it around quickly and store your grilling accessories nearby without having to search around. Plus, it comes with a 12-month quality assurance so you can be sure it will last for years to come—all of these features make the Sophia & William Heavy-Duty Charcoal Smoker Grill a must-have!

Tips for Offset Smokers
Char-Griller E56720 AKORN Kamado Charcoal Grill & Smoker, Pack of 1, Blue

Char-Griller E56720 AKORN Kamado Charcoal Grill & Smoker

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

✅ Triple-Walled Steel Construction

✅ Large 8" Locking Caster Wheels

✅ Locking Lid, 2 Folding Shelves & Easy Dump Ash Pan

✅ Double Wall Insulation & Heat Gauge

✅ Temperature Range – 200ᵒ F to 700ᵒ F

✅ Insulated Design for Fuel Efficiency

✅ Cooking Surface is Cast Iron

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Why We Love It

The Char-Griller AKORN Kamado Charcoal Grill & Smoker is an excellent charcoal smoker and has all the features you could ever want in a backyard grill! Much better than propane smokers or gas grills, Kamado grills are amazing with their triple-walled steel construction. Charcoal barbecues grill to ensure fuel efficiency while large 8" locking caster wheels make it easy to move around your outdoor space. It also features a locking lid, two folding black metal shelves, and an easy dump ash pan as well as double wall insulation and a heat gauge so you can have complete control over your cooking. The cooking system makes this charcoal smoker worth it with these impressive dimensions (45” L x 31” W x 47” H) and 97 lbs weight, it won't take up too much room or be too heavy to maneuver. The temperature range goes from 200ᵒ F to 700ᵒ F, giving you plenty of options when it comes to grilling or smoking any kind of food. The total cook area measures 447 sq/in - perfect for a cooking capacity of large gatherings!  The cooking surface is made from cast iron for durability, the body from 22 gauge steel for sturdiness, and the exterior finish from powder-coated steel for protection against heat or water damage. For convenience, the cart features tubular steel with rubber wheels and is equipped with an indexed damper that's numbered so you can easily find the position of the damper each time. Whether it's for weeknight dinners or weekend get-togethers at home, the Char-Griller AKORN Kamado Charcoal Grill & Smoker may be the best charcoal grill and has something great to offer every outdoor entertainer! These are better than other charcoal smokers.

Char-Griller AKORN Kamado Grill Spotlight | Char-Griller

Best Charcoal Smoker FAQs

If you're in the market for a new charcoal smoker but aren't quite sure where to start, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll be addressing the most frequently asked questions about charcoal smokers. From their design and functionality to their maintenance and care, we'll cover everything you need to know in order to make an informed decision when purchasing a charcoal smoker. So whether you're a seasoned griller or a beginner just starting out, keep reading for all the answers to your burning questions about this type of product. With our expert guidance, you'll be able to choose the perfect charcoal smoker that meets your needs and enhances your lifestyle.

What is a charcoal smoker?

A charcoal smoker is a type of outdoor grill that uses charcoal as the fuel source to produce heat and smoke.

How do you use a charcoal smoker?

The basic steps for using a charcoal smoker involve preparing the fuel, preheating the smoker, adding wood chips for smoking, arranging the food on the racks, monitoring the temperature and smoke level, and allowing enough time for slow cooking.

What types of food can be cooked in a charcoal smoker?

Charcoal smokers are well-suited for cooking various types of foods including meats like pork shoulder or ribs, poultry such as chicken or turkey, seafood like salmon or shrimp, vegetables like potatoes or squash, and even fruits like peaches or mangoes.

Do charcoal smokers require much maintenance?

Yes. Charcoal smokers need regular cleaning and routine maintenance such as checking the gaskets and maintaining proper ventilation to ensure optimal performance.

Can charcoals become hot enough to cook food?

Yes. With proper temperature control and technique, charcoals can reach temperatures of up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit which is high enough to cook most foods.

Are there accessories available for a charcoal smoker?

Yes. There are many accessories available that can make grilling with a charcoal smoker easier and more efficiently such as a thermometer probe, fire starters, ash pans, covers, and more.

Does cooking with a charcoal smoker take longer than other methods?

Generally speaking yes it does; however, this will depend on what you’re cooking because some items require less time than others.

What safety precautions should be taken when using a charcoal smoker?

As with any type of outdoor cooking device, it is important to follow safety protocols such as wearing protective clothing that can handle extreme heat conditions, avoiding direct contact with heat sources such as open flames or embers, not leaving children unsupervised near an active grill or fire pit, never leaving your grill unattended while in use, checking your smoker regularly for any gas leaks, disposing of ashes in an appropriate container away from combustible materials, and being aware of wind direction when operating your grill.

What Is The Best For You?

Throughout our research, we found that the best charcoal smokers on the market are those with durable materials, safety features, and a variety of sizes. It is important to find a container that can meet your specific needs. Whether you are grilling for one or for a large family, there is an option for everyone. We spent countless hours researching the best charcoal smokers out there to ensure you have the right information when buying one. Consider each product carefully and review all of the mentioned details before making your purchase - This will ensure that you get the perfect charcoal smoker for you!


Thanks for reading and get to grillin'!

Ky & J


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We hope we have provided you a list of products you Love! Each product was independently selected by our editors. Lifestyle Lineup may collect a small share of sales or other compensation from the affiliate links on this page if you decide to buy something (that's how we stay in business). We hope you Live Your Best Life!