Are you looking to take your outdoor cooking game to the next level? A combination grill smoker might be just what you need. These versatile units allow you to grill, smoke, and even bake all in one convenient appliance. However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this post, we’ll guide you through the key factors to consider when selecting a combination grill smoker.
Determine Your Cooking Needs
Before diving into the specifics, think about how you plan to use your combination grill smoker. Will you primarily be grilling for your family, or do you envision hosting large gatherings and smoking meats for hours on end? Answering these questions will help you determine the appropriate size and capacity you require.
Fuel Type: Charcoal, Pellet, or Gas
Combination grill smokers come in three main fuel types: charcoal, pellet, and gas. Each option has its own pros and cons:
Charcoal:
- Charcoal grills impart an authentic, smoky flavor to food that many people love.
- Charcoal comes in two main forms: briquettes and lump charcoal. Briquettes are uniform in size and burn consistently, while lump charcoal can burn hotter but less predictably.
- Charcoal grills require more hands-on temperature control by adjusting vents. They also leave behind ash that needs to be cleaned out.
- Cost is moderate, with 6.6 lbs of briquettes to achieve 60,000 BTUs/hour costing $2.60-$4.29, or 4.6 lbs of lump charcoal costing $1.20-$3.00.
Pellet:
- Pellet grills burn compressed wood pellets made from various wood types like apple, hickory, and mesquite to provide a smoky flavor.
- They have a hopper that automatically feeds pellets to maintain the set temperature, making them very easy to use.
- Pellet grills can operate as a grill or smoker and provide great versatility.
- Cost is higher, with 4.6 lbs of pellets to achieve 60,000 BTUs/hour costing $3.35-$4.35.
Gas:
- Gas grills are very convenient – you can simply turn them on and start cooking within minutes.
- They allow for precise temperature control by adjusting the burners.
- Gas grills lack the smoky flavor of charcoal or pellets on their own, but wood chips or chunks can be added for additional smoke.
- Natural gas is cheaper than propane, costing about $0.62/hour for 60,000 BTUs versus $2.60/hour for propane.
Charcoal provides the most authentic smoke flavor but requires more effort, pellets are very easy to use and still smoky but more expensive, while gas is the most convenient and allows precise control but lacks smoke on its own. The right fuel type depends on your personal preferences for flavor, convenience and budget.
Size and Cooking Area
Combination grill smokers come in various sizes, from compact models suitable for small patios to massive units that can feed a crowd.
Size:
- Combo grill smokers come in a wide range of sizes to suit different needs and spaces. Compact models are great for small patios or balconies, while larger units provide the capacity to cook for bigger gatherings.
- The overall dimensions of the unit are important to consider, especially the width, height and depth to ensure it will fit comfortably in your outdoor space.
- Larger units will generally use more fuel and may be heavier and less mobile, so consider your needs and limitations.
Cooking Area:
- The cooking area is measured in square inches and indicates how much food you can cook at one time. Consider the size of the meals you typically prepare and if you frequently host larger gatherings.
- Many models have a primary cooking area and a secondary cooking area. For example, the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo has 750 square inches of primary cooking space and 310 square inches of secondary cooking space, for a total of 1060 square inches.
- Look at the dimensions of each cooking chamber as well, to ensure they will accommodate the size of meat or other food you want to cook. For instance, the Pit Boss Lockhart Platinum Grill has a main cooking area about 30″ wide by 18″ deep by 9″ high.
- Also consider the number and type of cooking grates. Porcelain-coated cast iron grates are common and durable. Multiple grates or adjustable heights provide added versatility.
Consider the overall size of the unit and whether it will fit your space, as well as the total cooking area and size of each chamber. More cooking space provides added capacity and flexibility, but also impacts the overall size and fuel consumption of the smoker grill combo. Evaluate your typical cooking needs to find the right balance.
Temperature Range and Control
Look for a combination grill smoker with a wide temperature range, allowing you to smoke low and slow or crank up the heat for searing and grilling. Precise temperature control is also crucial for consistent results, so consider units with digital thermometers and easy-to-adjust vents or dampers.
Temperature Range
- A wide temperature range is important in a combo unit to allow for both low and slow smoking and high-heat grilling. Look for a smoker that can maintain temperatures as low as 180-225°F for smoking, and reach at least 500°F or higher for searing.
- For example, the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo has a gas grill chamber that can reach high searing temperatures, while the offset firebox allows for low and slow smoking.
- Pellet grills like the Camp Chef Woodwind have a temperature range of 160-500°F, allowing you to smoke, roast, grill, and sear all in one unit.
Temperature Control
- Precise temperature control is crucial for consistent results when smoking or grilling. Look for features that help maintain steady temperatures.
- Digital PID controllers on pellet grills like the Z Grills ZPG-600D3E constantly monitor the temperature and adjust the pellet feed to hold your set temperature.
- Kamado grills like the Char-Griller Akorn are made from insulative materials that help hold steady low temperatures for smoking.
- Multiple dampers or vents on charcoal smokers allow you to fine-tune the airflow and temperature. The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo has dampers to regulate heat and smoke.
- An accurate thermometer is a must to monitor cooking chamber temperature. The Oklahoma Joe’s has multiple professional temperature gauges for precise monitoring. Wireless meat probes are another helpful feature.
Other Considerations
- Some pellet grills have extra features to aid with searing, since they usually max out around 500°F. These include direct flame access or dedicated searing boxes that can reach 700-900°F.
- Gas grill combos make it easy to set up different temperature zones by controlling the burners independently. Look for at least 2-3 burners for good versatility.
Prioritize a wide temperature range from under 225°F up to at least 500°F, and preferably higher for a sear. Precise temperature control through digital PID controllers, insulative construction, dampers, and accurate thermometers make it easier to dial in the right temperature for any cooking method. Extra features like direct flame access or dedicated searing burners are a bonus for the best high-heat performance.
Build Quality and Insulation
Build Quality
- A well-built smoker grill combo will be made from thick, heavy-duty materials like steel or cast iron that retain heat well. This is especially important for the smoking chamber to maintain consistent low temperatures.
- Look for a minimum of 12-gauge steel for the body and 14-gauge steel for the lids. The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo uses heavy-gauge steel construction for durability.
- Kamado grills like the Char-Griller Akorn are made from insulative ceramic materials that hold heat exceptionally well for both smoking and grilling.
- Sturdy legs and a solid cart with wheels are important for stability and mobility. The Camp Chef Woodwind has a heavy-duty steel construction and large wheels for moving it around.
- Quality hardware like stainless steel hinges, latches, and handles will hold up better over time. The Longhorn Combo has cool-touch handles to protect your hands.
Insulation
- Proper insulation is crucial for a smoker to maintain steady low temperatures for extended cooks without using excess fuel. Double-walled construction with an air gap provides good insulation.
- Kamado grills are some of the most well-insulated, with thick ceramic walls that hold heat and moisture. This makes them very efficient smokers.
- Look for a well-fitting lid and doors with tight seals to minimize heat and smoke loss. The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo has a sealed lid to contain heat and smoke.
- Some smokers use a reverse flow design or tuning plates to even out temperatures from one end to the other for more consistent results.
Other Considerations
- Porcelain-enameled or stainless steel grates will hold up better than plain steel and are easier to clean. The Longhorn Combo has porcelain-coated cast iron grates.
- A grease management system with a drip pan and drain makes cleanup easier and helps prevent flare-ups. Look for a removable ash pan on charcoal models as well.
Prioritize a smoker grill made from thick, heavy-duty steel with quality hardware and a solid cart. Kamado grills offer excellent insulation, while double-walled steel construction is good for other types.
A well-sealed lid and doors are a must to hold in heat and smoke. Porcelain-coated grates and a grease management system make maintenance easier. With a well-built, properly insulated smoker grill combo, you’ll get the most out of your fuel and be able to maintain ideal smoking or grilling temperatures.
Additional Features
Some combination grill smokers come with additional features that can enhance your cooking experience, such as:
Multiple Racks or Shelves
- Having multiple racks or shelves in the smoking chamber allows you to increase your cooking capacity and smoke different foods at the same time.
- The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo has multiple porcelain-coated wire cooking grates in the main chamber, providing plenty of space for smoking large cuts of meat or multiple racks of ribs.
- Some models, like the Pit Boss Lockhart Platinum Series, have a removable upper cooking rack that can be used for smoking or moved out of the way for taller items.
Rotisserie Kits
- A rotisserie allows you to evenly cook and self-baste large cuts of meat like whole chickens, turkeys, or roasts.
- Look for a smoker grill combo that either includes a rotisserie kit or has one available as an accessory. The Kamado Joe Classic III has a rotisserie rack that fits inside the grill.
- Make sure the rotisserie motor is powerful enough to handle the weight of the food you plan to cook.
Side Burners or Griddles
- Side burners or griddles add versatility to your outdoor cooking setup, allowing you to cook side dishes, sauces, or breakfast items while smoking or grilling.
- The Camp Chef Woodwind has a propane-powered sear box that reaches high temperatures for perfect grill marks.
- Some models, like the Pit Boss Lockhart Platinum Series, have a removable griddle that fits over the main cooking grates for added flexibility.
Built-In Meat Probes
- Built-in meat probes allow you to monitor the internal temperature of your food without opening the lid and letting out heat and smoke.
- Look for a smoker grill combo with at least one built-in meat probe, like the Camp Chef Woodwind or Z Grills ZPG-600D3E.
- Some models have multiple probe ports for monitoring different pieces of meat or different areas of a large cut.
Ash Cleanout Systems
- An ash cleanout system makes it easier to remove ash and debris from the firebox, reducing maintenance time.
- Look for a model with a removable ash pan or dump valve that allows you to quickly dispose of ash without making a mess.
- The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo has a convenient ash removal door for easy cleanup of the firebox.
Other Features to Consider
- Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to monitor and control your smoker remotely using your smartphone.
- A pellet hopper cleanout door makes it easy to change out wood pellet flavors or empty the hopper for storage.
- A built-in bottle opener is a small but handy feature to have on your smoker grill combo.
Additional features like multiple racks, a rotisserie kit, side burners, built-in meat probes, and ash cleanout systems can enhance the versatility and convenience of your smoker grill combo. Consider which features are most important to you based on your cooking style and preferences. While these extras can be nice to have, keep in mind that they may also add to the overall cost of the unit.
Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews
Finally, research reputable brands known for their quality and customer service. Read reviews from existing owners to gain insights into the performance, durability, and potential issues of specific models. By considering these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to select the perfect combination grill smoker that meets your outdoor cooking needs and takes your backyard barbecues to new heights.
Brand Reputation
- Researching reputable brands known for their quality and customer service is important to ensure you get a reliable, well-made product4.
- Some of the most respected brands in the smoker grill combo category include Traeger, Weber, Kamado Joe, Oklahoma Joe’s, and Camp Chef234.
- Traeger is known as the pioneer of wood pellet grills and has a loyal following. They offer a range of high-quality pellet grill combos with advanced features23.
- Weber is a trusted name in grilling with a reputation for durable, well-designed products. Their SmokeFire pellet grill combo has been well-received24.
- Kamado Joe is renowned for their ceramic kamado grills that excel at both smoking and grilling. The Classic II model is a top-rated combo unit4.
Customer Reviews
- Reading reviews from existing owners can provide valuable insights into the real-world performance, durability, and potential issues of specific models4.
- Look for reviews on the manufacturer’s website, major retailers like Amazon, and dedicated forums or communities like Reddit’s r/smoking subreddit3.
- Pay attention to comments about ease of use, temperature control, smoke flavor, build quality, and customer support to get a well-rounded picture of a particular model.
- For example, reviews praise the Kamado Joe Classic II for its excellent temperature control, smoke flavor, and versatile cooking options4.
- The Traeger Pro 780 gets high marks for its WiFi connectivity, ample cooking space, and easy pellet hopper cleanout, with some minor criticisms of its maximum temperature23.
Other Considerations
- Look for brands that offer solid warranties and good customer support in case you have any issues or need replacement parts down the line.
- Some brands like Traeger and Camp Chef have active online communities where you can connect with other owners, get recipes and tips, and troubleshoot problems.
- Brands that have been around for a long time and have a track record of innovation, like Weber and Traeger, are a good bet for continued support and product development.
Bottom Line
So in summary, prioritize well-established brands known for their quality and customer service, like Traeger, Weber, Kamado Joe, Oklahoma Joe’s, and Camp Chef. Dig into customer reviews on manufacturer websites, online retailers, and forums to get first-hand accounts of a model’s performance, ease of use, durability, and potential drawbacks.
Factor in warranty coverage and customer support as well. By considering brand reputation and real-world user experiences, you’ll have a much better chance of choosing a smoker grill combo that will meet your needs and provide years of great outdoor cooking.