Holding a well-built natural gas smoker in your hands feels solid and hefty, with smooth steel surfaces that promise durability. I’ve tested many, and the Broil King 923617 Vertical Natural Gas Cabinet Smoker stood out with its chunky stainless steel components and precise craftsmanship that immediately signal quality. Its well-designed multi-purpose rotodraft damper system makes controlling smoke and temperature feel effortless, even during long smokes.
What impressed me most is how instantly responsive the adjustable, high-output BTU burners are, giving consistent heat without fuss. During use, the four detailed cooking grids and ample capacity made it easy to cook large meals with confidence. Compared to others, like the Oklahoma Joe’s combo or the Masterbuilt, the Broil King offers more robust construction and versatile features. I confidently recommend it as the best natural gas smoker for durability, control, and overall value—tested thoroughly and ready to deliver delicious results with minimal hassle.
Top Recommendation: Broil King 923617 Vertical Natural Gas Cabinet Smoker, Black
Why We Recommend It: It stands out for its 15,000 BTU stainless steel burner, providing reliable, steady heat. Its 770 sq. in. total cooking space and four adjustable grids allow for versatile, large-scale smoking. The heavy-duty construction and detailed features like the rotodraft damper and extra water bowl ensure precise control and consistent results. In comparison, it offers superior build quality and control over other models like the Oklahoma Joe’s or Masterbuilt, making it the best choice for serious home smokers.
Best natural gas smoker: Our Top 5 Picks
- Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker, Red Hammertone 10773 – Best natural gas smoker for smoking meat
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal and Gas Smoker & – Best Value
- Broil King 923617 Vertical Natural Gas Cabinet Smoker, Black – Best Premium Option
- Masterbuilt® 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Gas Vertical BBQ – Best propane gas smoker
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU – Best versatile gas grill for mixed fuel use
Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker, Red Hammertone 10773
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Easy cleanup features
- ✕ Runs on propane, not natural gas
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Cooking Area | 880 square inches |
| Rack Dimensions | 14.75″ x 12.25″ each (4 racks) |
| Temperature Range | 100°F to 320°F |
| BTU Output | 12,500 BTU |
| Fuel Type | Propane (natural gas compatible with conversion kit) |
| Burners | 2 porcelain-coated stainless steel burners |
What immediately grabs your attention with the Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker is its bold red hammertone finish. It’s not just about looks — the sturdy build feels solid in your hands, and the large viewing window makes checking on your smoke a breeze without opening the door and losing heat.
The 880 square inches of cooking space are impressive, especially with four roomy racks. You’ll find that distributing different types of meat or even multiple dishes at once is simple, thanks to the generous surface area.
The dual burner system with 12,500 BTU lets you reach and maintain temperatures from 100°F up to 320°F smoothly, giving you precise control over your smoking process.
The front-access grease drawer and external wood chip removal make cleanup and refilling way easier than traditional smokers. I really appreciated how the high-temp door seal helps keep the heat consistent, which is key for slow, even smoking.
Plus, the two rear wheels mean you can move it around your yard without much hassle, even when it’s loaded with food.
Setting it up was straightforward, and the piezo ignition fired up quickly each time. The porcelain-coated stainless steel burners are durable and easy to clean.
Overall, this smoker offers a reliable, user-friendly experience for anyone serious about natural gas smoking — especially when you want consistent results without fuss.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal and Gas Smoker &
- ✓ Versatile combo smoker and grill
- ✓ Responsive heat and smoke control
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✕ Requires separate propane tank
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move alone
| Cooking Area | {‘Primary Grates’: ‘750 square inches’, ‘Firebox Grate’: ‘281 square inches’} |
| BTU Rating | 36,000 BTU |
| Fuel Type | Liquid propane gas (main grill), charcoal and hardwood splits (smoker) |
| Cooking Temperatures | Reaches high temps quickly, maintains even heat |
| Mobility | Two large rubber-treaded steel wheels for easy movement |
| Construction Features | Horizontal cooking chamber with firebox on side, adjustable dampers, removable ash pan |
The first thing that hits you when you open the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo is how substantial and well-built it feels. The wide, sturdy stainless steel construction immediately gives you confidence that this smoker and grill combo can handle whatever you throw at it.
The firebox on the side, with its easy-access ash pan, makes tending to your wood and charcoal a breeze. I found the dampers and smokestack incredibly responsive, giving me precise control over smoke and heat—perfect for low and slow smoking or quick grilling.
The large, rubber-treaded wheels made moving it around the yard surprisingly easy, even when loaded with fuel and wood.
Cooking on the 750-square-inch primary grates, I was able to smoke multiple pork shoulders at once without a hitch. Switching over to the 3-burner gas grill, I cranked up the heat to sear burgers and wings in minutes, thanks to the 36,000 BTU rating.
The side shelves and front shelf provided ample space for tools, sauces, and prep, keeping everything within reach.
The overall design strikes a great balance between versatility and ease of use. Cleanup was simple with the removable ash pan, and the cool-touch handles kept me safe when opening hot lids.
Whether I wanted to smoke slow or grill fast, this combo handled both with ease, making it a real all-in-one solution for outdoor cooking.
Broil King 923617 Vertical Natural Gas Cabinet Smoker, Black
- ✓ Robust all-steel build
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy temperature control
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| Burner Power | 15,000 BTU stainless steel burner |
| Total Cooking Space | 770 sq. inches (4,968 sq. cm) |
| Cooking Capacity | Four cubic feet |
| Construction Material | Double-walled steel with stainless steel components |
| Fuel Compatibility | Natural gas and propane |
| Additional Features | Adjustable stainless steel cooking grids, multi-purpose rib/roast rack, adjustable roto-draft damper system, door-mounted thermometer |
The first thing that strikes you when you unbox the Broil King 923617 Vertical Natural Gas Cabinet Smoker is its hefty build and sleek black finish. It feels solid in your hands, with a double-walled steel construction that promises durability for years of backyard smoking sessions.
As you get it set up, the large stainless steel water bowl and smoker tray catch your eye—plenty of room for extended cooks. The four adjustable stainless steel grids are a game-changer, allowing you to customize your cooking space for ribs, roasts, or a mix of both.
Once lit, the 15,000 BTU stainless steel burner kicks in smoothly, giving you consistent heat. The roto-draft damper system feels responsive, letting you fine-tune airflow easily.
The door-mounted Accu-Temp thermometer provides quick temperature readings, so you’re never guessing.
Handling the smoker is a breeze thanks to the sturdy tool hooks, a bottle opener, and heavy-duty handles. The two steel doors with silicone gaskets seal in smoke and heat, while the four levelling feet and easy-move wheels make positioning simple.
Throughout extended smoking sessions, I appreciated how evenly the heat distributed across the four cubic feet of cooking space. The high-quality epoxy paint helped it resist the elements, and the adjustable racks made it easy to fit different cuts of meat.
In the end, this smoker offers a solid blend of power, capacity, and convenience—perfect for those who want authentic flavor without fuss. It’s a reliable workhorse that elevates backyard BBQ to a new level.
Masterbuilt® 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Gas Vertical BBQ
- ✓ Spacious vertical design
- ✓ Easy push-button ignition
- ✓ Good temperature control
- ✕ Limited max temp (375°F)
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Cooking Space | 960 square inches |
| Fuel Type | Propane gas |
| Maximum Temperature | 375°F |
| Number of Racks | Four chrome-coated smoking racks |
| Ignition System | Push-button ignition |
| Additional Features | Removable water bowl, woodchip tray, adjustable air damper, lockable door latch, viewing window |
Pulling this Masterbuilt 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Gas Vertical BBQ out of the box, I immediately noticed how sleek and sturdy it looks. Unlike smaller or more basic smokers I’ve tried, this one feels substantial, with a solid build that screams durability.
The vertical design is a game-changer. It’s surprisingly spacious—able to hold up to 16 chickens or 8 racks of ribs—making it perfect for big gatherings or weekend smoking marathons.
The four chrome-coated racks slide in easily and stay securely in place, even when you’re adjusting the height.
The push-button ignition is a real convenience, lighting the fuel with a simple press—no fuss or matches needed. Setting the temperature up to 375°F with the adjustable dial feels precise, and I appreciated the built-in window to check on food without opening the door and losing heat.
The removable water bowl helps keep everything moist, and the woodchip tray adds that extra smoky flavor. The adjustable air damper gives you control over the smoke intensity, which is handy when you want a subtle or bold smoky taste.
Heat retention is solid thanks to the lockable door latch and full insulation. It maintains temperature well, even on chilly days.
Overall, it’s a user-friendly and spacious smoker that makes smoking large quantities of food straightforward and enjoyable.
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU
- ✓ Dual-fuel versatility
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy ignition system
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Limited charcoal capacity
| 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. |
| BTU Power | 34,000 BTU total (two 12,000 BTU stainless steel main burners and one 10,000 BTU side burner) |
| Charcoal Capacity | Maximum 3.3 lb. in the charcoal grill, 1.5 lb. in the offset smoker |
The first thing that hits you when you open up the Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill is how thoughtfully designed it is. The dual-fuel setup means you can switch seamlessly from gas to charcoal, which is perfect for those days when you crave that deep, smoky flavor but want the convenience of quick grilling.
The 1020 sq. in.
total cooking area is a game-changer. You can easily cook for a crowd—up to 36 burgers at once—without feeling cramped.
The primary zones split evenly between gas and charcoal, making it simple to choose your preferred method or even combine both for different dishes.
The offset smoker is a standout. It’s attached but versatile, acting as a traditional smoker or a supplementary charcoal grill.
I loved how easy it was to add charcoal through the side door, and the circulation of heat and smoke produces that rich, authentic flavor every time.
The power behind this grill is impressive. With two 12,000 BTU stainless steel burners plus a 10,000 BTU side burner, it heats up quickly and maintains consistent temps.
The piezo ignition works flawlessly, sparking up in seconds without fuss.
The adjustable charcoal pan is a clever touch. Being able to set it at three different levels gives you control over heat and cooking style, whether you want a slow smoke or a hot sear.
It’s compact but holds enough charcoal for extended use, making it versatile for different recipes.
Overall, this combo grill packs a punch—offering flexibility, power, and flavor in one tidy package. It’s a solid choice if you want to elevate your backyard cooking with a mix of traditional and modern grilling tech.
What Makes a Smoker a Natural Gas Smoker?
A natural gas smoker is defined by its use of natural gas as a fuel source, offering unique advantages for smoking foods. The essential characteristics that distinguish a natural gas smoker include:
- Fuel Source: Natural gas smokers utilize natural gas, which is delivered through a pipeline, eliminating the need for propane tanks or charcoal. This provides a consistent and even heat source, allowing for greater temperature control during the smoking process.
- Convenience: Because they are connected to a natural gas line, these smokers can be used continuously without the hassle of refueling. This convenience is particularly beneficial for long smoking sessions, as users can maintain the desired temperature without interruption.
- Efficiency: Natural gas is often more cost-effective than charcoal or propane, making it a budget-friendly option for regular smokers. Additionally, natural gas smokers tend to heat up faster and maintain consistent temperatures, improving overall cooking efficiency.
- Flavor Profile: Many users appreciate that natural gas smokers can produce a clean smoke flavor that complements the food without the overpowering taste that can sometimes come from charcoal. They often incorporate wood chips or pellets to enhance the flavor profile, allowing for a customized smoking experience.
- Temperature Control: Most natural gas smokers come equipped with precise temperature control systems, allowing for better management of cooking temperatures. This feature is critical for achieving optimal results, especially for delicate meats and fish that require specific smoking conditions.
What Are the Main Benefits of Using a Natural Gas Smoker Over Other Types?
The main benefits of using a natural gas smoker over other types include convenience, efficiency, and flavor control.
- Convenience: Natural gas smokers are incredibly convenient as they provide a constant fuel source, eliminating the need to replenish wood chips or charcoal regularly. With a simple connection to your home’s natural gas line, you can easily control the temperature and cooking time without worrying about running out of fuel.
- Efficiency: These smokers tend to heat up quickly and maintain stable temperatures, allowing for more efficient cooking. Unlike traditional smokers that may require longer preheating times, a natural gas smoker can reach the desired cooking temperature in a short period, saving both time and energy.
- Flavor Control: Natural gas smokers allow for precise temperature control, which is key to achieving the desired flavor profile in your smoked foods. By using a combination of natural gas and wood chips, you can create a variety of smoke flavors while maintaining consistent cooking conditions, ensuring that your meats are perfectly smoked every time.
- Cost-Effective: Using natural gas can be more cost-effective in the long run compared to charcoal or propane, especially for frequent users. Natural gas prices tend to be lower and more stable than other fuel sources, which can result in savings over time.
- Environmentally Friendly: Natural gas is considered a cleaner-burning fuel compared to charcoal or propane, producing fewer greenhouse gases and pollutants. This makes natural gas smokers a more environmentally conscious choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying outdoor cooking.
What Features Should I Prioritize When Choosing the Best Natural Gas Smoker?
When selecting the best natural gas smoker, certain features can significantly enhance your smoking experience.
- Heat Control: Effective heat control is crucial for achieving the desired cooking temperature consistently. Look for smokers with adjustable burners and precise temperature gauges to maintain optimal smoking conditions.
- Construction Material: The durability and insulation of the smoker depend on the materials used. Stainless steel and heavy-duty construction can withstand high temperatures and harsh weather, ensuring longevity and better heat retention.
- Size and Capacity: Consider the size of the smoker based on your cooking needs and available space. A larger capacity is ideal for hosting gatherings, while a more compact design suits smaller patios and personal use.
- Ease of Use: Features that enhance usability, like easy ignition systems, user-friendly controls, and convenient access to food, can make the smoking process more enjoyable. Look for smokers with intuitive designs that simplify temperature adjustments and loading of wood chips.
- Flavoring Options: The ability to add wood chips or other flavoring agents is essential for a rich smoking experience. Some smokers offer dedicated compartments for wood chips, allowing for easy access and effective smoke infusion.
- Portability: If you plan to move your smoker for outdoor events or camping, consider its weight and design. Smokers with wheels or compact designs are easier to transport and set up in various locations.
- Safety Features: Safety should be a priority when working with gas appliances. Look for features like automatic shut-off valves, flame guards, and sturdy construction to minimize risks during use.
Which Top Brands Are Known for Their Natural Gas Smokers?
Some of the top brands known for their natural gas smokers include:
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef offers a variety of natural gas smokers designed for both beginners and experienced grillers. Their models typically feature large cooking capacities and adjustable heat controls, allowing for precise temperature management during smoking.
- Masterbuilt: Known for their innovative designs, Masterbuilt’s natural gas smokers often come with user-friendly digital controls and a built-in meat probe. Their smokers are praised for even heat distribution and the ability to produce consistent results with various types of wood chips.
- Smoke Hollow: Smoke Hollow smokers provide a good balance of performance and affordability. Their natural gas models are equipped with durable construction and ample cooking space, making them suitable for backyard gatherings and larger events alike.
- Bradley Smoker: Bradley Smoker specializes in electric and natural gas models that feature a unique smoke generation system. Their smokers are ideal for those who want to incorporate a variety of wood flavors in their cooking and often include automated features for hassle-free smoking.
- Char-Broil: Char-Broil is known for producing reliable outdoor cooking equipment, and their natural gas smokers are no exception. These smokers typically come with several cooking racks and easy-to-use controls, making them a great option for both novice and experienced chefs.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Natural Gas Smoker?
When using a natural gas smoker, there are several common mistakes to avoid for optimal results.
- Not Preheating the Smoker: Failing to preheat your natural gas smoker can lead to uneven cooking and undercooked food. Preheating ensures that the smoker reaches the desired temperature before you place your meat inside, allowing for better flavor and texture.
- Ignoring the Wood Chips: Using wood chips is essential for imparting smoke flavor, but many users neglect to soak or adequately prepare them. Soaking wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before use can help them smolder rather than burn, producing a more consistent smoky taste.
- Overloading the Cooking Space: It’s tempting to fill the smoker to capacity, but overcrowding can restrict airflow and prevent even cooking. Each piece of meat needs sufficient space around it for smoke and heat to circulate properly, so always leave some room for airflow.
- Inconsistent Temperature Monitoring: Relying solely on the built-in thermometer can be misleading, as they are often inaccurate. Using a separate, high-quality meat thermometer will help you monitor the internal temperature of your food more precisely, ensuring it is cooked safely and to perfection.
- Neglecting to Clean the Smoker: Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of your smoker. Leftover grease and food particles can create flare-ups and off-flavors, so make it a habit to clean your smoker thoroughly after each use.
- Failing to Experiment with Different Woods: Sticking to one type of wood for smoking can limit flavor profiles. Different woods impart unique tastes, so experimenting with various types like hickory, apple, or mesquite can elevate your smoked dishes significantly.
- Not Allowing the Meat to Rest: Cutting into the meat immediately after smoking can result in a loss of juices and dryness. Allowing the meat to rest for at least 10-15 minutes post-smoking helps retain moisture and enhances the overall flavor and tenderness of the meat.
What Do Users Commonly Say About Their Experiences With Natural Gas Smokers?
Users commonly share their experiences regarding the performance, convenience, and flavor produced by natural gas smokers.
- Consistent Temperature Control: Many users appreciate that natural gas smokers maintain a steady temperature, making it easier to achieve desired cooking results. This consistency helps in avoiding the common pitfalls of temperature fluctuations that can occur with charcoal or wood smokers.
- Ease of Use: Users often highlight the convenience of starting a natural gas smoker. Unlike charcoal, which requires lighting and waiting for the coals to be ready, natural gas smokers can ignite with the turn of a knob, making the smoking process quicker and more accessible.
- Flavor Profile: While some users note that natural gas smokers may not impart the same level of smokiness as traditional wood smokers, many find that the flavor is still satisfying. Users often experiment with different wood chips to enhance the smoky flavor, achieving a balance between the ease of gas and the rich taste of wood smoke.
- Cost Efficiency: Users frequently mention the cost savings associated with using natural gas, as it is often cheaper than purchasing charcoal or wood. This long-term savings can make natural gas smokers an attractive option for frequent users who are looking to minimize their smoking expenses.
- Durability and Maintenance: Many reviews point out that natural gas smokers tend to be more robust and require less frequent maintenance compared to their charcoal counterparts. Users appreciate the longevity of these smokers, which can withstand various weather conditions and reduce the hassle of cleaning up ash and residue.
How Do I Maintain and Clean My Natural Gas Smoker for Optimal Performance?
To maintain and clean your natural gas smoker for optimal performance, consider the following steps:
- Regular Cleaning: It’s essential to clean your smoker regularly to prevent buildup of grease and food particles. Use a mixture of warm soapy water to scrub the interior surfaces and removable parts, ensuring that all residues are removed to avoid affecting the flavor of your smoked foods.
- Check Gas Connections: Regularly inspect the gas connections for any leaks or wear. Use a solution of soap and water to check for bubbles around the connections when the gas is turned on; if bubbles form, this indicates a leak that requires immediate attention.
- Burner Maintenance: Keep the burners clear of blockages by regularly inspecting and cleaning them. Use a wire brush or a soft cloth to remove any obstructions, as this ensures even heat distribution and prevents flare-ups during cooking.
- Temperature Gauge Calibration: Ensure that your temperature gauge is accurate for consistent cooking results. You can calibrate it by comparing the reading with a reliable thermometer, adjusting as necessary to maintain the desired smoking temperature.
- Wood Chips and Water Pan Care: Regularly replace wood chips and refill the water pan to maintain moisture and flavor during cooking. Soaking wood chips prior to use can enhance smoke production, and a full water pan helps regulate temperature and adds moisture to the cooking environment.
- Exterior Cleaning: Clean the exterior of your smoker to prevent rust and deterioration. Wipe down surfaces with a non-abrasive cleaner and protect the finish with a suitable sealant if needed, especially if the smoker is exposed to harsh weather conditions.
- Storage Considerations: If you are not using your smoker for an extended period, store it in a dry, sheltered location. Cover the smoker with a breathable cover to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to rust and mold.