With summer just around the corner, every BBQ lover out there is probably wondering what is the best charcoal smoker available in the market? Having the right charcoals smoker can transform the taste and flavor of meats producing mouth-watering results. Whether for beginners or experts the charcoal smokers reviewed on this list are the best available for the money.
With so much competition and varieties of charcoal smokers out there choosing the right one that best suits your needs can be challenging. Staying true to top brands is what smart shoppers prefer and this list only reviews the best most reputed charcoal smokers to help ease buyers decision process.
By looking at many different models that feature different features and benefits we have compiled a comprehensive list that is sure to make this summer that much more special. From under $200 to under $500 we review the best smokers available that fall within your budget while providing that authentic American BBQ flavor and experience. 
Top 13 Best Charcoal Smokers Reviews by Consumer Reports
A detailed review of each charcoal smoker focuses on their individual benefits and drawbacks and offers in-depth reviews of why they would be perfect additions to your patio or backyard.
BEAU JARDIN Portable Charcoal Barbecue Smoker Tailgating Round Standing Camping BBQ Kettle First
Pros:
- Convenient for outdoor camping
- Easy to clean and maintain
- High heat tolerance thanks to a heavy-duty design
- Excellent value for money
- Has air vents for better heat control
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Has a convenient lid hanger
Cons:
- Small size
- Paint chips off if left to the elements
- Does not have a thermometer
- Assembly can be tricky as the instruction guide is not that detailed
This 18’ inch portable charcoal bbq kettle is highly convenient and perfect for outdoor use. The large wheels and relatively easy set-up makes for quick assembly which means less time screwing bolts and more time cooking.
The ergonomic design allows for easy portability as the grill is lightweight thanks to a porcelain enameled coating steel construction. The lid hanger also allows for cooking utensils to be hung by the side of the grill adding to its convenience and practicality.
If you are looking for a decent sized camping charcoal grill that is affordable and durable than this 18-inch kettle charcoal BBQ grill might just be ideal for your needs.
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black
Pros:
- Well-reputed brand
- Amazon’s Choice for ‘weber’
- Rust and peel resistant porcelain-enameled lid and bowl
- High-quality construction
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Hinged cooking grate allows for coal to be added while in use
- Durable and practical
Cons:
- A tad on the expensive side
When it comes to high-quality and lasting durability few brands come close to Weber. This 22-inch charcoal grill and smoker offer practicality, convenience and durability all wrapped in one complete package.
The high-quality wheels, study and stable construction, paired with many convenient features such as hinged cooking grate and lid hooks makes this the ideal go-anywhere charcoal grill for all you camping and BBQ lovers. This small but decent sized grill offers grilling and smoking features that result in unparalleled taste and flavor.
The Weber Original Kettle is the ideal companion to enjoy the outdoors as it is affordable, practical and extremely durable. The fact that it is also easy to clean thanks to an in-built ash catcher makes this a top-pick for BBQ lovers this summer.
Royal Gourmet BBQ Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker, 30” L
Pros:
- Large-size
- Heat-resistant cool-touch spring handles
- Ergonomic design and construction
- Large capacity charcoal pan
- Swing-away warming rack and storage racks
- Built-in thermometer and adjustable vents for better heat control
- Portable thanks to durable wheels
- Excellent value for money
- Combination of an offset smoker, BBQ and charcoal grill
Cons:
- Customers have experienced some issues with paint flaking
- Lacks in durability
For its size, value and features the Royal Gourmet BBQ Grill with an offset smoker is a bargain for the price. The 30’ inch cooking area is ideal for small to medium families that want to enjoy great tasting BBQ all year-round.
The Royal Gourmet BBQ grill offers a range of features that offer both practicality and convenience. The robust wheels, built-in thermometer and offset smoker allows you to grill and smoke on the go!
Two storage racks and a swing-away warming rack offer additional space for prepping and cooking while the spring handles keep your hands from being scorched by the heat. Although, it lacks a little in terms of overall quality of materials used, for the price it is definitely worth it.
Weber 14615001 Original Kettle Premium Limited Edition Charcoal Grill
Pros:
- Aesthetic and beautiful red color finish
- High-quality construction
- Stainless steel one-touch cleaning system
- Convenient and practical
- Limited Edition model
- Designed and engineered in the U.S.
- 10-year warranty
- Built-in lid thermometer
Cons:
- On the expensive side
The ultimate kettle-shaped charcoal grill that is perfect for gifting a loved one who is truly passionate about BBQ and charcoal grills. The beautiful high-quality finish and design of this limited edition Weber make it stand out from all the rest.
This Weber isn’t just all looks and no brains. Despite its minimalist and beautiful design, Weber offers many convenient and practical features that are discreetly placed on the grill. The hinged cooking grate allows for coal to be added while in use and the tuck-away lid holder means that you don’t have to hold the lid while cooking or place it on the ground.
The built-in thermometer, heavy-duty wheels and extremely durable high-quality construction makes this Limited Edition Weber as versatile and practical as it is beautiful. If you have the budget you will be hard-pressed to find a better quality more visually appealing charcoal grill.
Char-Griller E06614 AKORN Jr, Red Charcoal kamado Grill
Pros:
- Compact and robust kamado design
- Ideal for tailgating and camping
- Heavy-duty cast iron cooking surface
- Amazon’s Choice for “big green egg”
- Excellent heat retention
- High-quality portable slow roaster
- Adjustable top and bottom damper
- Convenient and practical
Cons:
- Small-size
- Relatively unknown brand
The Char-Griller AKORN Jr. is a Kamado grill built to be small and portable to allow for slow roasting, searing and smoking meats while camping. Its robust design and triple wall porcelain coated steel make for improved heat retention that requires less charcoal peruse.
The adjustable top and bottom damper allow for heat to be maintained and controlled according to desired levels. The ash pan at the bottom of the grill makes it easy to clean and maintain while the short legs make for improved stability while grilling.
The high-quality steel construction coupled with heavy-duty components makes for long-lasting use and excellent cooking results. The Char-Griller Akorn Jr maybe small but it packs a big punch when it comes to flavor and taste.
Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker, Black 30″ L
Pros:
- Portable and practical
- Large size grilling area
- Steel mesh front table and bottom shelf
- Great value for money
- Adjustable damper and vents for better heat control
- Relatively easy to assemble, install and use
- Amazon’s Choice for “charcoal grills on clearance prime”
- Cool-touch spring handles
Cons:
- Some issues with peeling paint
- Lacks durability
In terms of value alone the Royal Gourmet is in a league of its own. This large-sized grill is easily big enough to entertain dinner parties and family gathering. The steel mesh front and bottom shelves offer ample space for storage and prep while the off-set smoker offers a high capacity charcoal pan.
When it comes to heat control and retention the Royal Gourmet offers adjustable dampers for better airflow, an in-built thermometer, a big stack, and an adjustable charcoal pan. This allows for total control of smoke and heat.
The grill is easy to assemble, easy to clean and easy to use which makes it a great charcoal grill for beginners and for the money.
KamadoJoe KJ23RHC Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill, Blaze Red
Pros:
- Extremely portable and convenient
- Heavy-duty lightweight construction
- High-quality build and tight seals for better heat retention
- Airlift hinge
- Revolutionary divide and conquer cooking system
- Easy to clean (slide-out ash drawer)
- Shipped as fully assembled
- Amazon’s #1 New Release in ‘grill carts’
Cons:
- An expensive unit
- Quite heavy
The KamadoJoe is a revolutionary Kamado style charcoal grill that has a thick-walled, heat-resistant ceramic shell for the ultimate in heat and smoke retention. This is a premium charcoal grill for those that have a more refined pallet for rotisserie, charcoal grilled and smoked meats.
The portable four-wheel design and a relatively light-weight construction for a ceramic kamado make it ideal for outdoor and camping use. Features like the airlift hinge, versatile divide & conquer cooking system, top vent, stainless steel latch, two side shelves, slide-out ash drawer, and ceramic shell make this kamado worth every penny.
Expert Grill Heavy Duty 24-Inch Charcoal Grill
Pros:
- Sturdy and durable design
- 2-year warranty
- Long-lasting build quality
- Cast iron grates
- Adjustable charcoal tray
- Amazon’s Choice for ‘expert grill’
- Side shelf and bottle opener
- Great value for money
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- A bit tricky to assemble
- Is quite heavy for a small unit
The Expert Grill Heavy Duty charcoal grill is as its name suggests ‘heavy duty’. The grill has a compact practical design made from thick steel that offers much in terms of durability and heat retention. The adjustable charcoal tray is a great feature that allows for better heat control and more precise grilling.
For the price, this is a great charcoal grill that has a surprisingly spacious cooking surface compared to its size. The compact heavy-duty design and construction make it durable and also quite convenient as it doesn’t take up too much space. The side shelf coupled with three hanging hooks and a slide-out ashtray makes for easy prepping and maintenance.
If you are in the market for a decent sized charcoal grill and the Weber is a bit out of your budget range The Expert Grill offers an affordable alternative especially for beginners learning to master the grill.
Weber 15502001 Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Copper
Pros:
- Modern and sleek design
- Electronic ignition system
- Accurate heat control
- Handle for lid placement
- Durable and long-lasting construction
- Extended prep space
- Timer for easy pre-heat and grilling
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- Expensive but still under $500
Weber has some of the best grills and smokers available on the market and the Weber Performer Deluxe is no exception. This modern charcoal grill offers many convenient features such as electronic ignition, tons of prep and storage space, along with Weber’s high-quality construction that is made to last for decades.
The Weber Performer Deluxe offers top-quality manufacturing with practical and convenient features that make it simply a must have for BBQ lovers. The ease of use and the ability to remove the timer and the aluminum ash catcher set this Weber apart when it comes to keeping it maintained and clean.
Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker Charcoal Barbecue Grill and Smoker, Black
Pros:
- High-quality 22 gauge steel construction
- Cast iron cooking surface
- Adjustable damper for better heat control
- In-built thermometer and removable warming rack
- Practical and convenient
- Amazon’s Choice for ‘akorn grill’
- Folding side shelves for prep-use and hanging utensils
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- Small in size
For a kamado style charcoal grill the Char-Griller Akorn is a bargain for the price. The triple-walled porcelain insulated steel interior offers excellent heat retention so it makes it great for rotisserie, searing, smoking and grilling purposes.
The Akorn Kamado Kooker is the perfect kamado style grill for beginners as it is affordable, easy to use, and relatively lighter in weight than other more expensive ceramic models. The high-quality 22 steel gauge construction and powder coat finish helps ensure that this grill, smoker, and oven stands the test of time, offering perfectly cooked meats and vegetables all year round.
Dyna-Glo DGSS287CB-D Portable Tabletop Charcoal Grill & Side Firebox
Pros:
- Heavy-duty steel gauge construction
- Cool touch spring handles
- Ideal for tailgating and camping
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Short legs make for added stability
- Great for use in cold weather
- Excellent value for money
Cons:
- Small-size
- No storage or prep area
The Dyna-Glo is an affordable and highly durable charcoal grill for tailgating and camping. Its small size makes it easy to carry while the heavy-gauge steel body ensures durability and protection from the elements.
The Dyna-Glo offers the basic of charcoal grilling with no fancy features. What you pay for is the high-quality construction of the grill which makes it easy to put together and ensures long-time reliable use.
If you are in need of a basic unit for tailgating or camping than the Dyna-Glo offers a practical and affordable solution.
Pit Boss Grills 71820FB PB820FB BBQ Pellet Grill and Smoker, 820 sq. in. in
Pros:
- Large wheels make it easy to move around
- Offers a large-sized grill
- Durable heavy-duty construction
- Removable upper-rack
- Versatile cooking options
- Cast iron grate
- Operates on 100% natural wood pellets
- Offers full control over temperature and smoke
Cons:
- Some issues with paint flaking
- No side-shelves for prep purposes
- More expensive than other similar models
This Pit Boss is ideal for large families or gatherings that require a large sized grill. Its high-quality construction and many features make it extremely versatile offering BBQ lovers the ability to roast, sear, bake, braise and char-grill all on the same unit.
The practical and durable porcelain coated cast iron design allows for better heat retention and the adjustable P setting is perfect for controlling smoke density once the lid is shut.
The flame broiler and sear option that this Pit Boss offers makes for some truly great tasting BBQ!
Charcoal Smokers FAQ’s
If you have any questions about charcoal smokers, the next section will help you find the answer:
How to use a charcoal smoker with wood chips?
Wood chunks and chips add to the flavor and scent of barbecued meat as they smolder for longer giving off more smoke. One can use wood chips on a charcoal smoker by adding the wood alongside the charcoal.
How to use masterbuilt charcoal smoker?
Cooking or barbecuing requires skill, experience, and finesse but knowing how to operate the equipment you have at your disposal is also quite important. A master built charcoal smoker can be used to bake, sear, roast and grill meats and vegetables depending on your preference.
How to charcoal grill salmon?
The best way to charcoal grill a salmon is to cook salmon skin side down without flipping. Grill for approximately 8-minutes at around 130 degrees Fahrenheit for per inch of thickness.
How to charcoal grill brats?
The best way to charcoal grill brats is to place them directly over the charcoal and grill on each side until browned. It takes about 15-20 minutes for brats to be completely cooked at a temperature between 300-350 degrees Fahrenheit
How to charcoal grill pork tenderloin?
The goal for grilled pork tenderloin is to have a rosy-pink color on the inside with a crispy exterior. The best way to perfectly charcoal grill pork tenderloin is to cook it over high heat turning it every minute or two.
Can a charcoal grill be used as a smoker?
Yes, a charcoal grill can be effectively used as a smoker. Simply place a lid and make sure to maintain and track temperature to get that perfect smoked finish.