What is the best grill and smoker combo

To really step up your outdoor cooking game, finding the best grill and smoker combo is key, especially if you’re like me and love both a quick-seared steak and some slow-smoked ribs without needing an entire arsenal of appliances. These versatile units are designed to give you the best of both worlds, letting you grill, smoke, sear, roast, and even bake all from one convenient setup. It’s a fantastic way to save space on your patio and often a more cost-effective choice than buying a high-end grill and a dedicated smoker separately. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting your barbecue journey, there’s a perfect combo out there for you.

Understanding Grill and Smoker Combos: What Makes Them Great?

A grill and smoker combo is exactly what it sounds like: an outdoor cooking appliance that brings together the high-heat searing capabilities of a grill with the low-and-slow, smoky goodness of a smoker. This means you can easily switch between cooking methods, which is super handy for everything from weeknight burgers to a full-blown weekend brisket. In fact, these combos are becoming increasingly popular, reaching about 18% global penetration in 2024 within the BBQ market.

The magic behind these units often lies in their design. Many have separate chambers for grilling and smoking, or they use clever airflow management and heat deflectors to allow for dual-zone cooking. This versatility is a huge selling point, giving you the freedom to experiment with different flavors and cooking techniques. Plus, with many models incorporating digital controls and even Wi-Fi connectivity, managing temperatures has never been easier.

However, it’s worth noting that while these combos are incredibly versatile, some folks on Reddit and other forums point out that a combo might not always match the specialized performance of a dedicated, high-end smoker for an ultra-long cook or a top-tier grill specifically designed for searing. But for most backyard chefs, the convenience and quality offered by a good combo unit are more than enough. If you’re looking to explore the full spectrum of outdoor cooking without a cluttered patio, a grill and smoker combo is definitely a smart move. Check out some great Grill Smoker Combos on Amazon to get a feel for the variety available.

Mastering Your Outdoor Kitchen: The Ultimate Guide to Smoker, Grill, and Gas Combos

Pellet Grill and Smoker Combos: The All-Rounder

Pellet grills have really taken off in the outdoor cooking scene, and it’s easy to see why. They offer incredible convenience and consistent results, making them a favorite for many. Just load up the hopper with Wood Pellets, set your desired temperature on the digital control panel, and the grill does the rest, automatically feeding pellets to maintain that consistent heat. This “set it and forget it” approach is a must, especially for long smoking sessions.

What makes pellet grills fantastic as combos is their ability to deliver genuine wood-fired flavor with remarkable precision. While they excel at smoking low and slow, many newer models have stepped up their grilling game, offering higher temperatures for a decent sear. The Weber Searwood 600 Pellet Grill is a standout example, earning top marks for its direct flame searing capabilities across the entire grates and adjustable smoke levels. It even has an open lid grilling mode, which is a big plus.

Other excellent pellet options include the Traeger Grills Pro 22 and the Traeger Ironwood XL, both celebrated for their authentic wood-fired flavor and consistent temperature control, thanks to digital PID controllers. The Ironwood XL, in particular, is a beast with a spacious cooking area and excellent smoke production. If you’re looking for advanced features, the Camp Chef Woodwind Pro and Green Mountain Grills Peak Prime 2.0 offer Wi-Fi/Bluetooth control and smart sensors, allowing you to monitor and adjust your cook from your phone. These smart features are becoming more common, with tech-enabled grills reaching about 18% penetration in new purchases in 2024.

Pellet combos are generally a bit easier to use than charcoal models because of their automated features and consistent temperature control. However, they do require electricity to operate, which might limit their portability. Still, for anyone wanting that rich smoke flavor with minimal fuss, a good Pellet Grill Smoker Combo is an outstanding choice. Unlocking Culinary Power: Your Ultimate Guide to Commercial Robot Coupe Blenders

Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combos: For the Traditionalist

For those who chase that classic, authentic smoky flavor and love the hands-on experience of managing a fire, a charcoal grill and smoker combo is usually the way to go. These units are fueled by Charcoal, often lump charcoal, which many enthusiasts believe imparts a superior flavor compared to pellets or gas. While they might require a bit more attention to maintain consistent temperatures, the reward is a deeply flavored, tender result that’s hard to beat.

Kamado grills are a prime example of top-tier charcoal combos. Brands like Kamado Joe Classic II are consistently praised for their incredible versatility, excellent heat retention, and ability to hold steady temperatures for hours. Their thick ceramic construction means they’re super insulated, making them efficient for both low-and-slow smoking and screaming-hot searing for steaks or even pizza. The Kamado Joe Classic II often includes a “Divide and Conquer” cooking system, which is fantastic for cooking different foods at varying temperatures simultaneously. Another strong contender in this style is the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado, which offers a similar experience at a more budget-friendly price point, albeit with steel construction instead of ceramic.

Beyond kamados, other charcoal combo options include models with offset smokers, like the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Charcoal Combination Grill and Smoker. This type features separate chambers for charcoal grilling and offset smoking, giving you plenty of room and flexibility. The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 and 1150 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker are also gaining serious traction. They combine the ease of digital controls and an auto-feed gravity hopper like a pellet grill with the bold flavor of charcoal, allowing you to set a precise temperature and let the grill do the work. These Masterbuilt models can reach high temperatures quickly up to 700°F, making them excellent for searing too.

Many on Reddit are big fans of the Weber Original Kettle Premium 22″ for its grilling prowess, and some pair it with a dedicated smoker like the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker for smoking, though the Kettle itself can also smoke. If you’re after that true charcoal flavor and don’t mind a little more hands-on involvement, a good Charcoal Grill Smoker Combo will give you fantastic results.

Gas Grill and Smoker Combos: Convenience Meets Flavor

For those who prioritize convenience and speed but still want to dabble in smoking, a gas grill and smoker combo is a fantastic choice. Gas grills are known for their quick heat-up times and precise temperature control, making them ideal for impromptu weeknight grilling. The “combo” aspect usually comes from an integrated smoker box or the ability to add a separate Smoker Box or wood chip tray to infuse that smoky flavor. Commercial ice machine price at game

While dedicated gas smokers exist, the true combo units often feature separate gas grilling grates alongside a chamber or system for smoking, sometimes even using charcoal or pellets for the smoke element. This dual-fuel capability gives you ultimate flexibility. For instance, the Nexgrill Oakford 1150 Pro offers the flexibility of an offset smoker and a propane gas grill in one unit, letting you smoke low and slow on one side while searing steaks on the other. This kind of setup means you don’t have to compromise on either speed or flavor.

Many Pit Boss combo grills offer a similar multi-fuel experience, combining gas grilling with a pellet or charcoal smoker. The Lifetime 4-Burner Gas Grill and Pellet Smoker Combo has also received positive reviews for its solid construction, versatility, and ease of use, even outperforming some well-known brands for certain users. Some high-end options like the Alfresco ALXE Series offer professional-grade gas grilling with integrated rotisserie and dedicated smoker systems, perfect for a custom outdoor kitchen setup.

It’s true that getting a deep, authentic smoke flavor from a purely gas-fueled smoker can be a bit more challenging than with charcoal or pellet options, but modern designs with dedicated smoker boxes and efficient heat distribution make it much more achievable. If you’re looking for the ultimate in ease of use and quick grilling, with the added bonus of smoking capabilities, a Gas Grill Smoker Combo could be your ideal backyard companion.

Other Notable Grill and Smoker Combos

Beyond the main categories, the world of grill and smoker combos is full of innovative designs that cater to different needs and preferences. It’s really cool how manufacturers are constantly coming up with new ways to blend these cooking styles!

• Electric Smoker Combos: While not as common for grilling directly, some electric smokers can function as a “combo” by allowing you to smoke a variety of foods with minimal effort. They’re typically very easy to use, just plug them in, add your wood chips, and set the temperature. For instance, the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill is a tabletop electric grill that also provides excellent smoke flavor using wood pellets. This is a great option for smaller spaces or if you want that smoky taste without dealing with charcoal or propane.
• Vertical Smokers with Grilling Capabilities: Some vertical smokers, traditionally designed for low-and-slow cooking, can also be adapted for grilling. The Dyna-Glo Signature Series Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Smoker & Grill is one such model that combines robust smoking with a grilling area. These are often a good choice if smoking is your primary goal, but you still want the option to grill.
• Griddle and Grill Combos with Smoker Functionality: Some versatile units now include a griddle alongside grilling surfaces, sometimes with a smoker element. The Blackstone Duo 1819 Griddle and Charcoal Grill Combo is an example, offering both griddling and charcoal grilling, with potential for smoking with the right accessories. This kind of setup is fantastic for breakfast, smash burgers, and everything in between!

These “other” combos show how much the market is innovating to give us more options, making it easier to find a setup that truly fits our lifestyle and cooking ambitions. Singer sewing machine in pakistan price

What to Look For in a Grill and Smoker Combo

Choosing the right grill and smoker combo can feel a bit overwhelming with so many options out there. But trust me, once you know what to focus on, it gets a lot simpler. Here are some key things I always tell people to consider:

• Fuel Type: This is probably the biggest decision.

  • Pellet: If you want ease, consistent temperature control, and authentic wood smoke flavor without much fuss, a pellet combo is usually a winner. Just remember, they need electricity.
  • Charcoal: For that deep, traditional smoky flavor and the satisfaction of managing a live fire, charcoal is king. Kamado-style grills are particularly great here for their versatility. It’s a bit more hands-on, but many find it worth it.
  • Gas: If speed and convenience are at the top of your list, gas is a no-brainer. Look for models with dedicated smoker boxes or multi-fuel capabilities to get that smoke flavor.
  • Electric: Best for pure smoking convenience in smaller spaces, but generally not ideal for high-heat grilling.

• Temperature Control: This is crucial for both grilling and smoking. For smoking, you need a unit that can hold low, steady temperatures for hours think 200-300°F. For grilling, it needs to get hot, and quickly, often up to 500-700°F, for a good sear. Digital controls, Wi-Fi connectivity, and PID controllers especially on pellet grills make temperature management much easier and more precise.

• Cooking Area: Think about how much food you typically cook. Do you host large gatherings, or is it mostly for your family? Combo units offer a range of cooking surfaces, often listed in square inches. Some even have multi-tier grates to maximize space. You can find various sizes available for Outdoor Grills to suit your needs.

• Build Quality and Durability: Look for sturdy construction. Heavy-gauge steel, stainless steel components, and thick ceramic for kamados are signs of a grill that will last. Good insulation is also important for efficient heating and temperature retention, especially for smoking. Rust-resistant materials and solid wheels are also big pluses. Commercial japanese shaved ice machine

• Ease of Cleaning: Let’s be real, cleanup is rarely fun. Features like removable ash pans common in charcoal grills, grease management systems, and easy-to-remove grates can make a big difference.

• Versatility Beyond Grilling and Smoking: Some combos can do even more. Can they bake pizzas? Roast a chicken? Some even come with griddle inserts. Consider what other types of cooking you might want to explore.

Top Picks for 2025: Our Recommendations

Alright, now for the exciting part! Based on what’s new, what’s consistently praised, and what offers the best all-around performance, here are some of the top grill and smoker combos you should be looking at for 2025.

Best Overall Grill Smoker Combo: Weber Searwood 600 Pellet Grill

If you want a single grill that can truly do it all and do it well, the Weber Searwood 600 Pellet Grill is a phenomenal choice. This grill has really impressed experts by finally delivering strong grilling performance alongside excellent smoking capabilities, something pellet grills sometimes struggled with in the past. It features direct flame searing across the entire grates, an open lid grilling mode, and adjustable smoke levels, giving you incredible control over your cook. Plus, it’s quick to heat up, reaching your desired temperature in 15 minutes or less, covering a full range from 180°F to 600°F. While some mention minor hot and cold zones and that shelves aren’t included, its overall performance makes it a top contender. Find it here: Weber Searwood 600 Pellet Grill.

Best Charcoal Grill Smoker Combo: Kamado Joe Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill

For that traditional charcoal flavor and unmatched versatility, you really can’t go wrong with the Kamado Joe Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill. These ceramic kamados are legendary for their ability to maintain steady temperatures for hours, perfect for low-and-slow smoking, and then crank up the heat for searing steaks or baking pizza. Its “Divide and Conquer” cooking system is super convenient for cooking different items at various temperatures simultaneously, and the simple ash cleanout system makes post-cook tidying much easier. It’s a fantastic investment for anyone serious about charcoal cooking. Discover the Kamado Joe Classic II here: Kamado Joe Classic II. Zsm embroidery machine price

Best Pellet Grill for Smoking and Grilling: Traeger Ironwood XL

Traeger has been a leader in pellet grills, and the Traeger Ironwood XL continues that legacy, especially for those who want a robust pellet smoker that also handles grilling admirably. It’s spacious, easy to use, and consistently delivers fantastic smoked meats. The Ironwood XL excels at maintaining precise temperatures, and while it’s a “beast” in size, it’s designed for delicious wood-fired flavor. Traeger’s app connectivity also lets you control and monitor your cook from anywhere, adding a layer of modern convenience. Explore the Traeger Ironwood XL: Traeger Ironwood XL.

Best Digital Charcoal Grill Smoker Combo: Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800

If you love the flavor of charcoal but crave the “set-it-and-forget-it” convenience of a pellet grill, the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker is a must. This unit uses a gravity-fed hopper to automatically deliver charcoal, and digital controls allow you to set precise temperatures, much like a pellet grill. It can go from low smoking temperatures to high searing heats up to 700°F in minutes, giving you incredible flexibility. Plus, some models even come with a griddle insert, adding to its versatility. It’s a great choice for those who want the best of both charcoal flavor and modern technology. Find the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 here: Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800.

Best Budget-Friendly Combo: Weber Original Kettle Premium 22″ Charcoal Grill

Sometimes, the best solution doesn’t have to break the bank. The Weber Original Kettle Premium 22″ Charcoal Grill is a classic for a reason. While primarily known as a grill, it’s incredibly versatile and can be used for smoking with the right setup indirect heat, wood chunks. It’s durable, easy to use, and provides that iconic charcoal taste. For its price point, it offers fantastic value and allows you to experiment with both grilling and smoking without a huge initial investment. Many experienced grillers on Reddit swear by it for its reliability and quality. Check out the Weber Original Kettle Premium 22″.

Best Gas Grill with Smoker Features: Weber Genesis II E-310 or Spirit E-310

For serious gas grilling enthusiasts who still want to add some smoke, Weber’s Genesis and Spirit series are fantastic. While they aren’t explicitly “combos” with separate smoker chambers, their excellent heat distribution and ability to manage indirect heat make them suitable for smoking with the addition of a Smoker Box filled with wood chips. The Weber Genesis II E-310 or similar Genesis models is lauded for its large cooking space and consistent heating. The Weber Spirit E-310 offers a more compact yet equally capable option, being easy to use and well-built. Weber’s reputation for quality and customer service also gives you peace of mind. Explore Weber’s gas grills: Weber Genesis Gas Grill or Weber Spirit Gas Grill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are grill smoker combos good?

Absolutely! Grill and smoker combos are a great option for many people. They offer fantastic versatility, allowing you to enjoy both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking from a single appliance. This saves space on your patio and can be more cost-effective than buying separate units. While some specialized, dedicated smokers or grills might offer slightly superior performance in their specific niche, for the average backyard cook, a good combo unit delivers excellent results and convenience. What Exactly is a Chair Massage Demonstration?

Is there a smoker grill combo that truly does it all?

While no single unit is “perfect” for every single scenario, modern grill and smoker combos come incredibly close to doing it all. Pellet grills like the Weber Searwood 600 or Traeger Ironwood XL are excellent all-rounders, offering precise temperature control for smoking and increasingly effective searing capabilities. Kamado-style charcoal grills like the Kamado Joe Classic II are also renowned for their versatility, excelling at everything from smoking to high-heat grilling and baking. The “best” depends on your priority – whether it’s charcoal flavor, gas convenience, or pellet automation.

How do you use a smoker grill combo?

The exact usage depends on the fuel type and design of your combo. For a pellet combo, you fill the hopper with wood pellets, set the desired temperature on a digital controller, and the unit automatically feeds pellets and maintains heat. For a charcoal combo especially kamados, you arrange charcoal for indirect heat for smoking or direct heat for grilling, then use vents to control airflow and temperature. With a gas combo, you’ll light the burners as usual for grilling, and for smoking, you might use an integrated smoker box or add wood chips to a foil pouch over a burner to create smoke. Many modern units, especially pellet and gravity-fed charcoal models, offer app connectivity for remote monitoring and control, making them super easy to use.

Are combo grills worth it?

For most backyard chefs, combo grills are absolutely worth it! They’re a fantastic investment if you enjoy both grilling and smoking but don’t have the space or budget for two separate, high-end appliances. They provide the flexibility to cook a wide variety of foods with different methods, encouraging experimentation and expanding your outdoor cooking repertoire. You’re getting a versatile tool that can handle almost any outdoor cooking task you throw at it.

What is the best pellet grill smoker combo for the money?

When it comes to value, several pellet grill smoker combos stand out. Brands like Z Grills often offer excellent features and performance at a more accessible price point, such as the Z GRILLS Backyard Warrior 7002C2E. The Traeger Grills Pro 22 is also considered a great value, delivering authentic wood-fired flavor and consistent results without the higher price tag of some of Traeger’s more advanced models. Always compare features, cooking area, and customer reviews to find the best fit for your budget.

What is the best charcoal grill smoker combo Reddit recommends?

Reddit users frequently praise the versatility of Kamado-style grills like the Kamado Joe Classic II or the Weber Summit Kamado, as they excel at both low-and-slow smoking and high-heat searing. Many also recommend a combination of a Weber 22″ Kettle for grilling and a Weber Smokey Mountain WSM for dedicated smoking as an excellent and often budget-friendly setup for traditionalists. The Masterbuilt Gravity Series charcoal grills also get a lot of love for bringing digital convenience to charcoal cooking. Mastering Your Jeans Hem: A Friendly Guide to Sewing Machine Magic (and What Reddit Thinks!)

How do combo grills compare to separate units?

Combo grills offer unmatched convenience and space-saving benefits by consolidating multiple cooking functions into one unit. While a high-end, dedicated smoker might offer slightly more precise temperature control over extremely long cooks, or a premium gas grill might achieve a slightly hotter, more even sear, modern combo grills are designed to perform both tasks very well. For casual to intermediate users, the slight difference in specialized performance is usually outweighed by the versatility and efficiency of a combo unit. However, if you’re a competition-level pitmaster or a discerning chef who demands absolute perfection in one specific cooking method, two separate, top-tier appliances might be preferable.