Smoking meat is a cooking method that our ancestors have been using for ages. And it remains effective in infusing bold flavors into the meat and cooking it juicy and tender. As technology continues to improve our ways of preparing our food, a vertical smoker for this reason retains the tradition but made it more convenient to do.
The technology of a vertical smoker is quite simple but backed up by science. Since hot air rises, it is more energy-efficient to create a multi-level cooking appliance that takes advantage of this behavior.
Smokers may use different heating sources to heat their vessels, but, it still runs on the same principle. The hot air picks up the natural aroma of the wood chips and incorporates it into the meat slowly, alongside the flavors you put on it. The hot smoke prevents the meat from drying so it retains its juiciness and flavors. Your patience in hours of cooking time will be rewarded by the best barbecued and smoked meats.
Another advantage of using a vertical smoker is it saves on space in your backyard or an outdoor kitchen, too. You also have the option to use a traditional charcoal smoker, a gas smoker, or a pellet smoker. But an electric meat smoker is becoming more popular because it cooks a bit faster and is easier to operate. But then, when it comes to taste, wood smokers still win.
Are you in the hunt for the best vertical smoker being an outdoor cooking enthusiast? Your hunt ends here as we present you with the best ones available on Amazon right now.
Best Vertical Smoker for the Most Sumptuous Barbecues at Home – (Comparison)
| Name | Key Feature | |
| Weber 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker – (Editor’s Choice) | Utilizes a damper to control the heat inside | Check Price |
| Masterbuilt MB20070421 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker | With digital controls for a more precise cooking time and consistent temperature | Check Price |
| Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill | Multi-purpose – grill, and smoker in one | Check Price |
Weber 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker – Editor’s Choice
This makes a great entry-level vertical smoker for first-timers or even a household smoker for seasoned ones. Some users find the 18-inch version just the right size for most of their smoking needs, but some suggest getting the 22.5-inch model instead if you have the budget. But aside from the size, the highlight is still the performance.
This vertical offset smoker uses charcoal as its heating element. This results in a steadier heat circulating inside the vessel while infusing distinct flavors into your meat. The slow cooking also ensures that the meat’s natural juices remain intact. It is also easier to control the heat this way.
The Weber 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker is designed to maintain the optimum temperature your meats need to be cooked thoroughly and tastefully. This vertical charcoal smoker is also engineered to be a reliable cooking appliance that allows you to work on your different smoked meat creations for your family, for sharing, or your small business.
Since it does not produce a huge footprint, this vertical smoker can also double as your portable grill/smoker. You can bring it with you on vacations or camping trips, or even equip your RV/camper van with one.
This vertical smoker is built with an enameled-porcelain steel body that is resistant to high temperatures and outside elements. It is equipped with a damper that allows you to control the temperature without the need to open it up during the cooking process. The damper has holes that can cut off some of the oxygen inside to lower the temperature. It is mechanical so no need for batteries.
Weber is a known brand for its grills and smokers, so you can definitely expect great results. This vertical smoker is also integrated with a thermometer that can help you monitor and maintain precise temperatures throughout the cooking process. The 18-inch or 22.5-inch models can provide extra room for large cuts of meats, while the 14-inch version is more ideal for people who are still experimenting.
Pros
- Comes in different sizes – 14, 18, or 22.5-inches
- Uses charcoal; has a separate container for the charcoal and the wood chips
- Utilizes a damper to control the heat inside
- With built-in thermometer
Cons
- The body is made of thin material so some users find it a struggle to use during winter
Conclusion
The Weber 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker is one reliable, no-frills cooking equipment that allows you to smoke meats in your own backyard. It has the right size for home use and is also easier to operate.
Masterbuilt MB20070421 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker
If you want a vertical smoker that produces similar results but is more convenient to use, go digital.
This vertical smoker makes a good sausage smoker because of its generous space and multi-level racks. You save time and energy on cooking multiple pieces of sausages in various flavors in one batch. In the same way, it can also cook different types of meats – from ribs to beef, pork, and even hocks. You can even sneak a few vegetables on the top rack to complete your barbecue slash smoked meat feast.
The Masterbuilt MB20070421 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker utilizes electricity to heat up the inside. With digital controls, it is now easier for you to adjust the temperature according to your liking. This also helps provide precise temperatures throughout the cooking process for that even cooking. The digital panel control also makes it more convenient for you to turn on or off your appliance, adjust the temperature, and set the cooking time.
This vertical smoker has 4 levels of chrome-plated cooking racks. That’s a total of 711 square inches of space for your meats that could feed your family for days, or your guests.
One advantage of a digital vertical smoker over a wood smoker is foregoing the hassle of sourcing, storing, and using wood. So, aside from the convenience of operating it, it is also easier to use your vertical smoker. You also do not need to check if it’s running out of wood from time to time. Just wait for the timer to set off and your meats are good to go.
The Masterbuilt MB20070421 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker is one of the best electric smoker options in the market. It has digital and precise controls, generous space, and is durably built.
This vertical smoker also has a patented wood chip loader that you can use or refill with without the need to open the smoker door. You can infuse different flavors and experiment with the outcomes even during the cooking process. Enjoy smoker BBQ better with your own blend.
Pros
- With digital controls for a more precise cooking time and consistent temperature
- Generous smoking space – 30-inches, 4-levels
- Equipped with the patented wood chip loader that can be refilled without opening the smoker door
- Semi-transparent smoker door
- Temperature can reach up to 275 degrees Fahrenheit
Cons
- Temperature tends to fluctuate in big increments during the cooking process
Conclusion
If you fancy grills & outdoor cooking, then having your own vertical smoker is a must. And if you want to be spared of the hassle of sourcing wood, or if they are inaccessible in the area, a digital vertical smoker like the Masterbuilt MB20070421 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker is a great choice.
Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill
If you have the space and would like to have a multi-purpose appliance to invest on, then get a smoker grill combo. Not only it provides more mileage to your investment, but also widens your menu as well.
The Dyna Glo smoker and grill allows you to finish off your smoked meats on the grill for better flavor and texture. The smoker has 5 chrome-plated racks – generous in space to cook more meats at a time. All in all, you get a total of 1,382 square feet of space for your meats, sausages, and even vegetables. Grill and smoke at the same time to expand your offerings to your guests.
This vertical smoker holds heat inside well since it is made of heavy-duty steel all over. Aside from the durable body construction, a built-in temperature gauge also helps in keeping the temperature precise and consistent throughout the cooking process.
The thermometer/temperature gauge features different cooking zones that are assigned to specific temperature ranges. You have the smoking zone, barbecue zone, and grill zone. And then there is the danger zone that you should keep an eye on. Meanwhile, this helps you to reach the most optimum temperature to cook your meats perfectly each time.
The Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D utilizes charcoal as the heat source and has an easy-access container for it. The removable charcoal container allows you to easily dispose of the ash or refill it as needed.
This vertical smoker also features stay-cool handles for additional safety. In addition, it is equipped with oversized wheels so you can move your vertical smoker with ease on the most convenient spot in your backyard or outdoor kitchen. This model is one of the best smoker grill choices in the market if you are looking for one.
I find the built-in sausage hooks a nice touch, too.
Pros
- Multi-purpose – grill, and smoker in one
- Comes with a built-in thermometer and gauge marked with cooking zones for smoking, barbecue, and grilling
- Uses charcoal for better heat control
- Removable charcoal container
- Stay-cool handles
- With built-in sausage hooks
Cons
- Users report some smoke spewing so it might need some extra sealing
Conclusion
The Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill is a good choice for users looking for more flexibility with their equipment. This multi-purpose vertical smoker works as promised, and makes a good purchase if you have the space for a smoker pit at home.
Final Verdict
The best meat smoker should allow you to cook your meats nicely in the comforts of your home. That is, it has to fit the space and be used conveniently and safely.
With that in mind, we consider the Weber 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker to be the Editor’s Choice among the three products that made it to our best list.
The Weber 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker is a reliable vertical smoker that has the right features to deliver consistent results. This vertical smoker is structurally well-built, is easy to operate, does not occupy too much space (it even offers 3 different sizes), and has garnered a lot of satisfied reviews from present users.