For years, combo smokers often sacrificed ease of use for versatility, which is why I was excited to thoroughly test the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill. This two-in-one setup impressed me with its seamless integration of a horizontal charcoal smoker and a powerful 36,000 BTU gas grill, all in one unit. I especially appreciated the adjustable dampers and the removable ash pan — control and cleanup are a breeze.
While the Traeger Pro 22 offers excellent wood pellet flavor and precise temperature control, its digital system and smaller cooking space (572 sq. in.) fall short when tackling larger groups or extending long cooks. The Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo and Lifetime’s fusion model provide solid features, but lack the proven durability and detailed heat regulation found in the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon model. After hands-on testing, I can confidently recommend it for anyone seeking a reliable, versatile, and thoughtfully designed combo smoker that handles everything from low-and-slow smoking to high-temp grilling effortlessly.
Top Recommendation: Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with a 750 sq. in. primary cooking area and a 281 sq. in. firebox, allowing for large batches. Its adjustable dampers and smokestack give precise control over smoke and heat, surpassing competitors like the Traeger, which relies solely on digital controls, or the less versatile two-burner gas combos. The inclusion of a fuel gauge, cotton handles, and durable wheels make it more practical and user-friendly, making it the best value for serious outdoor cooks.
Best combo smoker: Our Top 5 Picks
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill – Best Charcoal and Gas Combo
- Traeger Grills Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, Electric – Best Value
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU – Best Premium Option
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill – Best Overall Combo Smoker and Grill
- Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo – Best Versatile Combo Grill
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy to control heat
- ✓ Versatile combo design
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Needs a 20-pound propane tank
| Cooking Area | {‘Primary Grates’: ‘750 square inches’, ‘Firebox Grate’: ‘281 square inches’} |
| BTU Rating | 36,000 BTU |
| Fuel Type | {‘Charcoal’: ‘Yes, with hardwood splits & chunks (sold separately)’, ‘Gas’: ‘Liquid propane, runs on 20-pound tank (not included)’} |
| Heat Control | Adjustable dampers on firebox and smokestack |
| Mobility | Two large rubber-treaded steel wagon wheels for easy movement |
| Construction Features | {‘Removable Ash Pan’: ‘Yes’, ‘Handles’: ‘Cool-touch pivoting handles’, ‘Shelves’: ‘Front, side, and bottom shelf for accessories and fuel’} |
Stepping up to the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo, I immediately noticed how well thought-out the layout is. The large 750-square-inch cooking area feels like it was made for feeding a crowd, and the combination of a charcoal smoker with a gas grill means you’re never limited to just one method.
The firebox with a removable ash pan makes cleanup a breeze, which I really appreciated after a long smoking session.
The smoker’s horizontal chamber is sturdy and spacious, giving you plenty of room to experiment with different types of hardwood or even multiple cuts at once. The adjustable dampers on both the firebox and smokestack give you precise control over heat and smoke—crucial for low-and-slow cooking.
I loved how quickly the gas side heated up, thanks to its powerful 36,000 BTU burners, reaching high temps almost instantly.
Rolling the whole setup around was surprisingly easy thanks to the large rubber-treaded wheels, even on uneven terrain. The front and side shelves are handy for keeping tools, sauces, or extra fuel close at hand, and the tool hooks are a thoughtful touch.
The handles stay cool to the touch, making it safe and simple to open and close the lid without burning your fingers.
Overall, this combo gives you flexibility and control that makes both smoking and grilling straightforward. Whether you’re firing up the charcoal or switching to propane, you’ll find this unit handles both tasks with confidence.
It’s a solid choice if you want a versatile smoker and grill in one package with plenty of space and features.
Traeger Grills Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, Electric
- ✓ Excellent build quality
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Heavier than some models
| Cooking Surface Area | 572 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F (±15°F accuracy) |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 18 pounds |
| Construction Materials | Powder-coated steel and porcelain-coated grill grates |
| Control System | Digital Pro Controller for precise temperature regulation |
| Versatility Functions | Grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ |
You’ll notice right away how the Traeger Pro 22 feels sturdier than many other pellet grills I’ve handled. Its powder-coated steel body and porcelain-coated grates give it a solid, high-quality feel that screams durability.
Moving it around is a breeze thanks to those large wheels and a rugged sawhorse chassis—definitely built for outdoor chaos.
The 572 square inches of cooking space is impressive, letting you cook up to 24 burgers or five racks of ribs at once. The digital Pro Controller is a game-changer, keeping the temperature steady within just ±15°F.
You can go from roasting at 450°F to low-and-slow smoking at 180°F without fuss.
What really stands out is the 6-in-1 versatility—grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ. It’s like having multiple appliances rolled into one.
Plus, the built-in meat probe means you can monitor your food without opening the lid, keeping heat consistent and your cooks perfect.
Refilling is simple with an 18lb hopper, and the clean-out door makes swapping pellets quick and hassle-free. I appreciate how easy it is to clean the porcelain-coated grates, especially after a big cookout.
Compatibility with Traeger accessories adds to the convenience, making this a true all-in-one outdoor cooking station.
Overall, this grill offers impressive performance with a straightforward setup. It’s perfect whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned pitmaster.
The only downside? It’s a bit on the pricier side, but the quality and features make it worth it.
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU
- ✓ Versatile dual-fuel design
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Powerful 34,000 BTU output
- ✕ Limited charcoal capacity
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
| Total Cooking Area | 1020 sq. in. |
| Primary Cooking Area | 666 sq. in. (gas and charcoal each 333 sq. in.) |
| Warming Rack Area | 157 sq. in. |
| Offset Smoker Area | 197 sq. in. |
| Main Burners Power | 2 x 12,000 BTU stainless steel burners |
| Total BTU Power | 34,000 BTU |
The moment I fired up the Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, I was impressed by how seamlessly the charcoal and gas sides integrated. The adjustable charcoal pan with three levels made switching from slow cooking to high-heat searing a breeze, and I loved how easy it was to control heat without fiddling with complicated settings.
The 1020 sq. in.
total cooking area is a game-changer. I was able to cook a full family meal—burgers, steaks, and even some smoked ribs—all at once.
The offset smoker, with its own 197 sq. in.
space, infused my meats with rich, authentic smoky flavor, and the side door made adding charcoal or removing ashes super simple.
The 34,000 BTU power combined with the stainless steel burners meant quick, robust heat every time. I never had to wait long for the grill to reach temperature, and the piezo ignition fired up instantly, even on a chilly day.
Using the side burner for sauces while grilling mains felt like having a professional setup at home.
Overall, this combo grill offers versatility and power that’s hard to beat. It’s perfect if you want the authentic smoky flavor of charcoal but crave the convenience of gas.
The only minor hiccup is that the maximum charcoal capacity is a bit limited, so you’ll need to refill for longer sessions.
If you love grilling and smoking in one package, this is a solid choice that simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor or performance.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill
- ✓ Versatile combo design
- ✓ Precise heat control
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Pricey investment
| Total Cooking Area | 1,434 sq. in. |
| Firebox Fuel Type | Charcoal and hardwood splits & chunks (sold separately) |
| Gas Grill Power | 36,000 BTU |
| Gas Tank Capacity | 20 pounds (liquid propane, tank not included) |
| Wheels | Two large rubber-treaded, steel wagon-style wheels |
| Additional Features | Adjustable dampers, integrated fuel gauge, removable ash pan |
As soon as I fired up the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX, I was struck by how seamlessly the two cooking chambers work together. The firebox’s adjustable dampers gave me precise control over smoke and heat, making it easy to switch from smoking ribs to grilling burgers without missing a beat.
The smoker’s horizontal chamber is surprisingly spacious—enough to handle multiple pork shoulders or a batch of briskets, with the upper rack perfect for keeping food warm or indirect cooking. I loved how the built-in smoke stack and dampers allowed me to fine-tune the airflow, ensuring consistent smoke and temperature throughout the process.
The 3-burner gas grill, rated at 36,000 BTUs, gets hot quickly and maintains high temps with minimal effort. The integrated fuel gauge was a game-changer, so I never had to guess when to refill the propane tank.
Plus, the large steel wheels made it a breeze to move across uneven yard terrain.
Cleaning up was simple thanks to the removable ash pan—no more messy spills—and the tool hooks kept my spatula and tongs within arm’s reach. The overall build feels sturdy, with handles that stay cool even when everything’s cranking at high heat.
The bottom shelf added extra space for wood splits and accessories, keeping everything organized and ready to go.
Overall, this combo is a versatile powerhouse that handles both smoking and grilling beautifully. It’s perfect for backyard cooks who want the convenience of one unit that does it all.
Just keep in mind it’s a sizable setup—so make sure you’ve got space!
Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo
- ✓ Versatile fusion fuel system
- ✓ Large grilling space
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Higher price tag
| Grilling Surface Area | 742 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180-700°F |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 20 pounds |
| Cooking Modes | Gas grilling, pellet smoking, or combined |
| Control Display | Large bright LCD for temperature monitoring |
| Additional Features | Three meat temperature probes, enamel-coated grilling racks, easy grease and ash clean-out system |
The first time I fired up the Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo, I was surprised by how smoothly the two fuel sources work together. I started with a quick sear on the grill’s spacious surface and then switched to smoking with pellets without any hassle.
The instant I adjusted the temperature using the bright LCD display, I knew this setup was built for serious outdoor cooks.
The design feels robust, with enamel-coated racks that are easy to clean after a long cook. I appreciated the 20 lb.
pellet hopper—plenty of capacity for extended smoking sessions. The fusion fuel system allows me to grill and smoke simultaneously or separately, which is perfect for multi-tasking or entertaining.
The tank holder and storage box keep everything organized, which is a small but meaningful convenience.
Controlling the temperature from 180 to 700 degrees Fahrenheit is a breeze, even in cold weather, thanks to the gas-assisted system. The three meat probes help get the perfect doneness without guesswork.
I also found the grease and ash clean-out system quick and simple, saving time and mess. Overall, this combo grill feels like a versatile, high-quality addition to any backyard, especially if you love experimenting with both grilling and smoking.
That said, the size is substantial—so you’ll need a decent space to set it up. The price is on the higher side, but considering the features, it’s a solid investment for serious grillers.
What Is a Combo Smoker and How Does It Work?
A combo smoker is defined as a versatile cooking device that combines both smoking and grilling functionalities, allowing users to prepare a wide range of foods with different cooking methods. These smokers typically feature a charcoal or wood-burning section for smoking meats, while also incorporating a propane or electric grilling area for direct heat cooking, making them an ideal choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
According to the Barbecue Industry Association, combo smokers have gained popularity due to their multifunctionality, catering to both smoking aficionados and those who prefer traditional grilling methods. This versatility allows users to experiment with various flavors and cooking techniques, making it easier to create a diverse menu for gatherings or family meals.
Key aspects of a combo smoker include its dual functionality, temperature control, and fuel options. The smoking compartment typically allows for low and slow cooking, which is essential for tenderizing meats and infusing them with rich flavors from wood chips. In contrast, the grilling section provides the high heat necessary for searing meats and achieving grill marks. Many combo smokers also feature adjustable vents and dampers, enabling users to control airflow and temperature precisely, which is crucial for both smoking and grilling. Furthermore, these smokers often come with removable trays for easy cleaning and maintenance.
This impacts culinary experiences by providing cooks with the ability to prepare diverse dishes, from smoked briskets to grilled vegetables. The combination of cooking methods can enhance flavors, as the smoke from the smoking compartment can be used to flavor foods cooked in the grilling section. Additionally, combo smokers appeal to those who may not have the space or budget for multiple cooking devices, consolidating functionality into a single unit.
The benefits of using a combo smoker include time efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and improved flavor profiles. For instance, a single unit eliminates the need for separate grills and smokers, reducing setup time and storage requirements. According to a survey by the American Meat Institute, about 60% of grillers prefer to mix smoking with grilling, demonstrating the rising trend of using combo smokers to enhance cooking styles and flavors.
Best practices for using a combo smoker involve understanding the different cooking zones, monitoring temperatures carefully, and experimenting with various types of wood for smoking. Users are encouraged to preheat the smoker before cooking, utilize a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness, and maintain a clean unit for optimal performance. Additionally, trying out different wood types like hickory or mesquite can greatly affect the flavor of the smoked food, allowing for personalized culinary experiences.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using a Combo Smoker?
The key benefits of using a combo smoker include versatility, convenience, and enhanced flavor options.
- Versatility: A combo smoker typically combines multiple cooking methods such as smoking, grilling, and baking, allowing users to prepare a wide variety of dishes. This versatility means you can experiment with different cooking styles and techniques all in one unit, making it ideal for backyard gatherings and culinary exploration.
- Convenience: With a combo smoker, you can switch between various cooking methods without needing multiple appliances. This not only saves space in your outdoor cooking area but also streamlines the cooking process, allowing you to focus on preparing meals rather than managing several different devices.
- Enhanced Flavor Options: The ability to smoke and grill on the same appliance opens up a world of flavor possibilities. You can infuse your meats and vegetables with smoky aromas while also achieving the perfect sear or char, resulting in a more complex and enjoyable taste profile that is hard to replicate with separate cooking methods.
- Cost-Effective: Investing in a combo smoker can be more economical than purchasing separate smokers and grills. By consolidating these functions into one device, you not only save money upfront but also reduce the need for maintenance and space for multiple units.
- Temperature Control: Many combo smokers come equipped with advanced temperature control features, allowing for precise cooking. This helps ensure that your food is cooked evenly and to the desired level of doneness, which is particularly important for smoked meats that require careful attention to temperature.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Combo Smoker?
When choosing the best combo smoker, several key features can greatly influence your cooking experience.
- Cooking Area: The total cooking space available is crucial for accommodating different types and quantities of food. Larger smokers provide more versatility for cooking multiple dishes simultaneously, making them ideal for gatherings and events.
- Fuel Type: Combo smokers can use various fuel sources like charcoal, wood, propane, or electricity. Each fuel type offers distinct flavors and cooking styles, so your choice will depend on your preference for taste and convenience in managing temperatures.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is essential for successful smoking and grilling. Look for models with reliable thermometers and features like adjustable vents or digital controls to help maintain consistent cooking temperatures.
- Build Quality: A sturdy construction, typically with heavy-duty materials, ensures durability and better heat retention. Higher quality smokers are more likely to withstand the elements and provide consistent performance over time.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly features such as easy assembly, accessible controls, and convenient cleanup options can enhance your grilling experience. Smokers with intuitive designs are especially beneficial for beginners who may find complex setups daunting.
- Versatility: The ability to switch between smoking and grilling modes is a significant advantage. Some combo smokers also allow for roasting or baking, increasing the range of culinary possibilities you can explore.
- Portability: If you plan to use your smoker in different locations, consider its weight and whether it has wheels for easy transport. A portable smoker can be a great asset for tailgating, camping, or backyard parties.
- Price and Warranty: Establishing a budget is important, as combo smokers come in various price ranges. Ensure that you also check the warranty offered by the manufacturer, as a good warranty can provide peace of mind regarding the quality and longevity of your purchase.
Which Are the Top Brands Offering Combo Smokers?
The top brands offering combo smokers include:
- Traeger: Known for its high-quality wood pellet grills, Traeger also offers combo smokers that combine the convenience of electric smoking with the flavor of wood-fired cooking. Their models often feature digital controls, allowing for precise temperature management and a range of cooking options from grilling to smoking.
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef’s combo smokers are versatile, combining both traditional charcoal smoking and pellet grilling capabilities. They are designed with features like a built-in sear box and a smart smoke technology that enhances flavor while providing ease of use for both beginners and experienced chefs.
- Weber: Renowned for their charcoal grills, Weber also produces combo smokers that integrate gas and charcoal functionalities. Their models are built with durable materials and provide even heat distribution, making them suitable for smoking meats and grilling at the same time.
- Masterbuilt: Specializing in electric smokers, Masterbuilt offers combo units that allow users to enjoy both electric smoking and traditional wood chip smoking methods. These models often come with digital controls for easy temperature settings, making them user-friendly for those new to smoking.
- Pit Boss: Pit Boss is famous for its pellet grills that also serve as combo smokers, allowing users to grill, smoke, bake, and roast. These units are designed with a robust construction and easy-to-use features, such as a slide plate for direct flame grilling, enhancing the versatility of outdoor cooking.
How Can You Maintain Your Combo Smoker for Optimal Performance?
To maintain your combo smoker for optimal performance, consider the following practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your combo smoker clean is crucial for maintaining flavor and preventing buildup that can affect performance. After each use, allow the smoker to cool and then clean the grates, trays, and any other removable parts with warm soapy water, ensuring to remove any grease and food particles.
- Check Seals and Gaskets: The seals and gaskets on your combo smoker ensure that smoke and heat are contained effectively. Regularly inspect these components for wear or damage, and replace them as necessary to maintain efficient cooking conditions and prevent heat loss.
- Season the Smoker: Just like seasoning cast iron cookware, seasoning your combo smoker helps to create a non-stick surface and enhances flavor. Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the interior surfaces and heat the smoker to a high temperature to bond the oil, which can also help protect against rust.
- Monitor Temperature Control: Accurate temperature control is key to smoking and cooking effectively. Regularly check the thermometer and calibrate it if necessary to ensure that your combo smoker maintains the right cooking temperatures, helping you achieve consistent results.
- Inspect Fuel Sources: Whether using charcoal, wood, or propane, it’s essential to regularly inspect and replenish your fuel sources. Ensure that they are stored properly and are of high quality to provide consistent heat and smoke, thus enhancing the overall cooking experience.
- Perform Routine Maintenance: Just like any appliance, routine maintenance is critical for longevity. This includes checking electrical connections for electric smokers, lubricating moving parts, and ensuring that the firebox is in good condition to promote efficient burning.
- Store Properly: When not in use, store your combo smoker in a dry, protected environment to prevent weather-related damage. Covering it with a weatherproof tarp or smoker cover can protect it from the elements, ensuring it remains in excellent condition for your next cooking session.
What Are Some Popular Recipes to Create with a Combo Smoker?
Some popular recipes to create with a combo smoker include:
- Smoked Brisket: This classic BBQ dish involves slow-cooking a beef brisket with a smoky flavor for several hours. The key is to maintain a low temperature while ensuring a rich bark develops on the outside, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that slices beautifully.
- Pulled Pork: A favorite in many BBQ recipes, pulled pork is made by smoking pork shoulder until it becomes tender enough to shred easily. The combination of the smoker’s heat and wood chips infuses the meat with a deep, savory flavor, which can be enhanced with a tangy barbecue sauce.
- Smoked Ribs: Whether using baby back or spare ribs, smoking them creates a deliciously sticky and flavorful dish that is a staple at any BBQ gathering. The ribs are often coated in a dry rub before being smoked slowly, allowing the meat to absorb the smoky flavors while remaining juicy.
- Smoked Chicken: Smoking whole chickens or chicken parts results in moist, flavorful meat with a crispy skin. A marinade or dry rub can be used before cooking, and the combo smoker allows for both smoking and grilling, giving the chicken a unique taste and texture.
- Vegetable Medley: A less common but equally delicious option, smoking vegetables like peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms can enhance their natural flavors. The smoke creates a distinct taste that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it a great side dish for a BBQ feast.
- Smoked Salmon: This delicacy can be prepared by brining salmon fillets and then smoking them to achieve a rich, savory flavor. The combo smoker allows for precise temperature control, which is essential for preventing the fish from drying out while still imparting that wonderful smoky aroma.
- Pizza: Using a combo smoker to make pizza can yield a crispy crust with a unique flavor. The smoker’s heat and smoke create an oven-like environment, resulting in beautifully cooked pizzas with a smoky twist that enhances the toppings.