TABLE OF CONTENTS
A grill is essential for every BBQ enthusiast. But if you want to feel that unique smoky flavor in your food, then you’ll need more than a grill. It’s time to invest in the best smoker grill combo Consumer Reports.
Not only will a smoker grill combo add a distinct taste to your food, but also speed up your cooking time.
And before you invest your money in a smoker grill combo, make sure you decide on what type of fuel source you need-whether it’s wood, gas, or the charcoal type.
Top 5 Best Smoker Grill Combo Consumer Reports for 2021
We dedicated several hours of our time and effortless testing and research before we decided on these top 5 smoker grill combo.
I’ll be providing a detailed review of these 5 products. I bet it; all of these products are of high quality and tested for efficiency and productivity.
After completing this section, I’ll also provide you with some general factors to consider before buying a smoker grill combo. Plus, some helpful tips. In the end, you’ll be able to select the right smoker that suits your BBQ needs. Let’s get started.
1. Weber Original Premium 22” Kettle
Undoubtedly, Weber is one of the best manufacturers of the charcoal grill, and Weber Original Premium 22” Kettle is not exceptional.
I picked this unit of premium Weber kettle because of its impeccable qualities and its bang for the buck.
At a weight of 32 pounds, the lightweight smoker grill combo comes at a cooking space of 365 square inches.
I mean, with this cooking space, you can cook thirteen burgers at once. Just place them on the grate, and you’re good to go.
It comes with a lid that carries a built-in thermometer.
And when I removed the lid, I conveniently hanged it on the side of the grill. Thanks to Weber for creating a lid hook for convenience.
What’s more, the best smoker grill combo comes with a one-touch cleaning system and the ash cleanout system.
And oh, you can buy the Weber Original Premium 22” Kettle in your preferred color, ranging from copper, green, black, or crimson.
Apart from the convenient cleanup of the smoker grill combo, Weber designed the grill with the user in mind. For example, the cooking grate is hinged; the lid comes with a hook to keep it off the ground, etc.
The Weber Original Premium 22” Kettle comes with durable wheels that can withstand any condition and improve stability. And at 32 pounds, feel free to transport this smoker grill combo anywhere around the backyard.
Pros
- Easy cleanup system
- Great design
- Portable
Cons
- Sometimes Legs can be unstable
2. Kamadojoe KJ23RHC Ceramic Charcoal Grill
I was surprised by the flexibility of this ceramic grill. With the KamadoJoe KJ23RHC Ceramic Charcoal Grill, you can grill your burger, steaks, chicken breast, bake your bread, and do more. Basically, this is an outdoor oven, and you can use this best smoker grill combo for many things.
You can easily recognize the KamadoJoe KJ23RHC Ceramic Charcoal Grill. Thanks to the unique egg shape design.
I checked the lower third of the unit, and that’s where the coal is located. At the top, you will find the lid with the built-in thermometer. If you use them correctly, regulating the cooking temperature won’t be a problem.
The lid is tightly sealed that no heat can ever escape.
To smoke, what you need to do is to add lots of woods to the top of your charcoal, and here you go.
Nevertheless, you have total control over the cooking temperature. That means you are free to slow cook ribs, briskets, or your favorite meat, on the go. That you can cook evenly is one of the significant benefits of using this smoker grill combo.
You will understand better if you’ve ever made pizza. It can be challenging to achieve an even cook with other grills or smoker. You will love KamadoJoe KJ23RHC Ceramic Charcoal Grill for this.
Feel free to bake fresh bread, too.
The best smoker grill combo also features a one-touch cleaning system and the ash cleanout system.
It comes at a cooking surface of 18 inches. That way, you have more than enough space to smoke or grill your steaks, Burger, or chicken breast during that large family gathering.
However, this unit can be too heavy at 37 pounds.
Pros
- Ash cleanout system
- Large cooking surface.
- Even Temperature control
Cons
- May be too heavy
3. Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker
Durable, lighter, and more easily navigated than the regular kamado-style grills, this unit from Char-griller allows you to cook with more versatility. Thanks to the modern construction of this best smoker grill combo.
Constructed with a durable steel and porcelain-coated from the inside, E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker features a triple wall for better heat retention and to properly maintain the temperature from 200-700°F.
I noticed that it also comes with three-wheel that supports mobility along with a locking caster to help your smoker grill combo with stability.
The primary cooking area of 314 square inches, plus the additional area of the removable racks, gives the total cooking space of 447 square inches. It also comes with two adjustable dampers that make it easy to set and adjust the air food to achieve an even cooking temperature throughout.
And on top of the lid is the mounted temperature gauge. With this, you can easily monitor and adjust your internal temperature. Clean up is made easier with the ash dump pan. With this feature, you don’t have to vacuum your waste ash.
Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker also features two side shelves with hooks for tool storages.
Pros
- Easy cleanup system
- Great design
- Portable
Cons
- Limited cooking space
4. Camp Chef PG24MZG Smokepro Slide Smoker
Looking for the perfect slide smoker and grill combo? Then you may want to have a look at Camp Chef PG24MZG SmokePro Slide. The slide and grill technology lets you bake, smoke, grill, braise, and roast BBQ on the go. Oh, and you can expect a delightful flavor coming from the wood pellet.
As with most modern pellet smoker, this unit offers a digital control feature that stands out among the rest.
To smoke, add sufficient pellets to the hopper, set your desired temperature, and here you go. Nevertheless, you have total control over the cooking temperature. That means you can slow cook ribs, briskets, or your favorite meat, on the go.
That you can cook evenly is one of the major benefits of using this smoker grill combo. Thanks to the modern digital temperature control feature of this unit.
The best smoker grill combo also features a one-touch cleaning system and the ash cleanout system.
It comes at a cooking surface of 570 square inches. That way, you have more than enough space to smoke or grill your steaks, Burger, or chicken breast during that large family gathering.
Pros
- Larger cooking area
- Ash cleanout system
- Easy to use and clean
- Highly portable
- Add delightful flavor to your cooking
Cons
- Ash removal system may be difficult to use
5. Weber 61010001 Genesis II E-310 Black LP
As you know, Weber is one of the world-class grill brands in the market.
So you can always expect a plethora of great features on the smoker grill combo.
Coming at 513 square inches, Weber 61010001 Genesis II E-310 can cook over 20 brisket patties on the go.
Furthermore, there’s also a warming rack with over 156 square inches of additional cooking space.
It comes with four great features that deliver an exceptional performance, including the infinity ignition, flavorizer bars, and the grease management system.
I checked beneath the grill and noticed that there is a space where grilling accessories can be stored.
Okay, thanks to Weber for including a 10-year warranty on this unit. That way, you’re safe for a good ten years. Isn’t that great?
I also noticed that the grill maintains an even temperature throughout the cooking process, which is pretty good.
What’s more, Weber 61010001 Genesis II E-310 also comes with advanced tech features like mobile app optimization, which redefines how the unit is controlled. However, all this does not come at a cheap price.
Pros
- Durable and well constructed
- Mobile app optimization
- The high-quality digital control system
- Large cooking space
Cons
- May be difficult to assemble.
Buyers Guide
For a beginner barbeque lover, choosing the right smoker and grill combo can be a pain in the neck. I hope this buyer’s guide will answer all your questions. Firstly, why do you need a smoker and grill combo?
Benefits of a smoker grill combo
Although I’ve briefly talked about a few things you should expect from a smoker and grill combo (faster cook time and extra smoky flavor), below are other benefits to enjoy from this BBQ product:
Superior quality materials
Apart from the ones we reviewed, grill smoker combos are generally made with high-quality materials that are durable and will last long. Unlike other barbeque products, you don’t have to worry about the unit wearing out after a short time of use.
Also, the paint will never chop off.
Multiple cooking options
One word can be used to describe a smoker and grill combo- versatility. Feel free to choose your preferred cooking option. You can braise, grill, smoke, roast, bake, and do lots more with this combo.
Easy to use
You don’t have to be a professional chef to use these units. They are designed with simplicity in mind.
The temperature is regulated correctly for you, so your food will never burn.
Nice grill smoker combo usually has sufficient cooking space and an extra space where you can keep your food. That way, you won’t spend endless hours on cooking.
Also, these units come with unique mechanisms that allow you to clean them easily — for example, the removable ash pan and racks.
Smoker grill combo- Top factors to consider
Smoker and grill combo is available in the different price ranges. Most time, the units with higher prices usually have more features.
However, it is expensive does not guarantee you will get the best result.
Some cheaper models offer high quality. That’s why you need to consider certain features before you purchase these smoker grill combo. I’ve listed out a few below.
Cooking area
The cooking area plays a vital role as it determines the quantity of food you can cook at once. Your preferred cooking area will be determined by what you intend doing with your smoke and grill combo. Do you want to cater to your family only or a large audience?
Consider this before making a purchase.
Also, consider if the unit has a separate section for grilling and smoking.
Temperature range
Make sure you confirm that the grill you’ll be buying reaches your preferred cooking temperature. Some models have a high-temperature range of up to 900°F.
Here are a few things to remember.
Generally, you will need to set your smoker grill combo to a temperature range of between 225°F to 250°F.
You’ll need a high temperature for searing.
You’ll need to set your temperature to ‘low’ for low roasting
Ensure your grill is preheated to around 350°F for indirect grilling
Fuel source
As with a grill or a smoker, you must consider the source of fuel before purchasing one.
That’s because each of these fuel sources comes with its pros and cons. So you need to select the one that is suited for you.
Typically, the most common sources of fuel are:
Gas
Many people prefer gas grills because of their convenience. And generally, gas is known to heat up faster. The only issues are that you won’t get that smoky flavor with a gas grill.
Charcoal
If you’re particulate about taste, then a charcoal smoker grill combo is the best bet. They will help you achieve your dream of food with smoky flavor.
Wood
Wood also improves your meat’s flavor.
Pellets
If you love to go for a natural source of fuel, then I recommend using pellets. They do not have that artificial adhesive that usually affects the overall taste of your food.
Construction
How a grill is constructed will determine how long it’s going to last. If you don’t want to purchase another unit after a short term use, make sure you select a smoker grill combo that is made with high-quality materials.
Size
Do you want a small or larger grill? Do you own a large apartment with a big backyard? You must answer these questions before selecting the size of the smoker grill combo.
You may be handicapped with the right set up if you own a small backyard and buy a large-sized unit.
Make sure you measure your backyard dimension and choose the size that’s perfectly suited for its use.
Warranty
Because you’re going to use this product for the long term, I’ll advise you to check if it included a warranty.
Warranties are important because they got you covered in case your unit malfunctions. All you have to do is to contact the manufacturer, and they will help you find a solution.
Extra tips on using your smoker grill
I’ll be outlining a few helping tips that will help you fully maximize the use of your smoker grill combo.
Here are they:
- Make sure you have your grill prepared before use. For example, if you have a charcoal smoker and grill combo, make sure you prepare the Firebox by filling it with charcoal. Has your wood soaked in water for about 30 minutes before you add it to charcoal? That way, you can get a sweet smoke.
- Make sure your smoker and grill combo are well preheated. That way, all contaminations will be removed.
- Always check your food frequently to ensure that it is cooking accurately.
- After cooking, clean the grates when it is warm because that’s when they are easier to clean.
FAQ
What differentiates a smoker and a grill?
Grills use direct heat while a smoker’s source of heat is indirect.
What’s the best way to add a smoky flavor to food?
For a smoky flavor, you’ll need to use a pellet smoker.
How long does a smoker grill take to cook food?
The time it takes to cook food differs and depends on several factors. For example, if you’re cooking meat, factors like types and thickness of the meat will determine how long it will take to cook.
Furthermore, it also depends on the smoker temperature.
How long does it take a smoker grill combo to heat up?
Averagely, it will take between 30-45 minutes to heat up.
Conclusion
Now that we’ve listed and review the best smoker and grill combo, I hope you won’t have a hard time making a right choice. We also discussed what you need to consider before you buy these “beautiful bad boys.”
Make sure you read and understand all our points before investing in a smoker grill combo.
Our first choice was Weber Original Premium 22” Kettle.
I picked this unit of premium Weber kettle because of its impeccable qualities and its bang for the buck.
However, all the other ones we reviewed are simply the best you can find in the market. Just choose the one that’s suited to your needs. Have a good day!
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