Vertical pellet smokers are a popular choice for those who love the smoky flavor of grilled food. These smokers use wood pellets as fuel, which are burned to produce heat and smoke. The vertical design of these smokers allows for even heat distribution and efficient use of space.
When it comes to choosing the best vertical pellet smoker, there are a few key factors to consider. One of the most important is the size of the smoker. Smokers come in a range of sizes, from small tabletop models to large, commercial-grade smokers. It’s important to choose a size that fits your needs and the amount of food you plan to smoke.
Another important factor is the quality of the smoker. Look for a smoker that is made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or cast iron. A quality smoker will be durable and long-lasting, and will provide consistent performance over time.
We spent hours researching and testing the top vertical pellet smokers on the market to identify the ones that offer the best combination of size, quality, and performance. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks for the best vertical pellet smokers, along with detailed reviews and recommendations to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Best Vertical Pellet Smokers
We have researched and tested various vertical pellet smokers to bring you the top products available in the market. These smokers are designed to provide you with the best smoking experience, allowing you to cook delicious, smoky meats and vegetables with ease. Our list includes a variety of options, from affordable models to high-end units with advanced features. So, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned smoker, you’re sure to find a product that suits your needs and budget. Check out our roundup of the best vertical pellet smokers below.
Pit Boss 77700 7.0 Pellet Smoker, XL, Copper 7 Series Copper
If you want a vertical pellet smoker with a large cooking capacity, then Pit Boss 77700 is the one for you.
Pros
- The digital LED readout and meat probe allow you to monitor internal temperatures with ease.
- With six porcelain-coated cooking grids, you get a total of 1815 sq. in. of cooking space, which is perfect for large gatherings.
- The 40 plus lb hopper capacity with pellet Purge gives you more than 24 hours of use, so you don’t have to keep refilling the hopper.
Cons
- The assembly process can take a little while, but the instructions are clear.
- The smoker may arrive with some dings and dents due to shipping.
- The door doesn’t seal tightly, which may cause some heat loss.
We were impressed by the performance of this smoker. It’s fully programmable, with a temperature range of 150 – 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The auto-start 300 watt igniter with auto shut-off makes it easy to start and stop the smoker. The smoker also comes with a porcelain-coated water pan and heat deflector, which helps to distribute heat evenly.
The Pit Boss 77700 is made of high-quality materials, including stainless steel and alloy steel, which makes it durable and long-lasting. However, the smoker is quite heavy, weighing in at 142 pounds, so you may need some help moving it around.
Overall, we would highly recommend the Pit Boss 77700 7.0 Pellet Smoker, XL, Copper 7 Series Copper to anyone looking for a high-quality vertical pellet smoker with a large cooking capacity. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and produces delicious smoked meats and vegetables.
Direct Igniter Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit
We highly recommend the Direct Igniter Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit for those looking to make their own pellet smoker or replace a broken one.
Pros
- Comes with all the electrical components needed to make a great pellet smoker
- Auto start/auto light and shut down modes make it easy to use
- Includes meat probe for perfect doneness every time
Cons
- Temperature control could be more accurate
- RTD probe placement can be tricky for accurate readings
- Flame guard and drip tray not included and must be custom made
This kit is easy to set up and use, making it perfect for those new to making their own pellet smoker. The auto start/auto light and shut down modes make it convenient to use, while the included meat probe ensures perfect doneness every time.
One downside to this kit is that the temperature control could be more accurate, but it still holds temperatures to within approximately 15 degrees of the desired set temperature. Additionally, RTD probe placement can be tricky for accurate readings, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully. Finally, the flame guard and drip tray are not included and must be custom made, which may be a drawback for some users.
Overall, the Direct Igniter Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit is a great choice for those looking to make their own pellet smoker or replace a broken one. It’s easy to use and comes with all the necessary components, making it a convenient option for beginners.
Cuisinart COS-116 Vertical Charcoal Smoker
We highly recommend the Cuisinart COS-116 Vertical Charcoal Smoker for anyone looking for a reliable and budget-friendly option for smoking meats.
Pros
- The two 16″ stainless steel racks provide ample cooking space for your meats and other dishes.
- The porcelain enamel water bowl helps to maintain the perfect level of moisture while cooking.
- The top and bottom vents provide a dual air vent system for optimal temperature control.
Cons
- The latching base can be difficult to secure properly and may require some practice to get the hang of.
- The vertically hinged door can be a bit finicky to open and close smoothly.
- The charcoal tray is a bit small and may need to be refilled during longer smoking sessions.
Overall, we found the Cuisinart COS-116 to be a great option for those looking for a simple and effective vertical pellet smoker. The stainless steel racks are sturdy and easy to clean, and the porcelain enamel water bowl helps to keep your meats moist and flavorful. The dual air vent system allows for precise temperature control, and the compact size of the smoker makes it easy to store when not in use.
If you’re looking for a reliable and budget-friendly option for smoking meats, we highly recommend the Cuisinart COS-116 Vertical Charcoal Smoker.
PIT BOSS Pro Series 4-Series Vertical Wood Pellet Smoker
If you’re looking for a versatile and powerful smoker, the PIT BOSS Pro Series 4-Series Vertical Wood Pellet Smoker is an excellent option.
Pros
- The WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities allow you to control the temperature settings and monitor meat probes from your phone.
- With over 1,000 square inches of adjustable cooking space, you won’t have to worry about running out of room.
- The smoker is easily portable with four wheels, making it perfect for parties and events.
Cons
- Assembly is required, which may be a hassle for some users.
- Some reviewers have noted that the smoker only produces “smoke” flavor on low temperatures, and that turning up the heat can result in a more oven-like cooking experience.
- The door may sag and fit poorly, and some users have reported dents and other damage upon delivery.
We found the PIT BOSS Pro Series 4-Series Vertical Wood Pellet Smoker to be a reliable and versatile option for smoking, roasting, and baking. The WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities make it easy to control the temperature and monitor your meat probes, while the large cooking space and portability make it a great choice for parties and events.
Assembly can be a bit of a hassle, and some users have reported issues with the door sagging or fitting poorly. Additionally, turning up the heat can result in a more oven-like cooking experience, which may not be ideal for some users. However, overall we found the PIT BOSS Pro Series 4-Series Vertical Wood Pellet Smoker to be an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile smoker.
TFCFL Vertical Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit
We highly recommend the TFCFL Vertical Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient way to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ.
Pros
- The iron material makes the smoker grill sturdy and high-temperature resistant.
- The precise temperature control ensures that your food is cooked to perfection every time.
- The machine has a high temperature, allowing your food to cook quickly and evenly.
Cons
- The meat needles are not included, so you will need to purchase them separately.
- The machine is on the heavy side, weighing in at 28.66lbs.
- The machine’s size may be a bit too large for some users.
We were impressed with the TFCFL Vertical Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit’s ability to cook our food evenly and precisely, even though we are not professional cooks. The adjustable temperature panel allowed us to control the temperature of the grill pellet precisely, so we could meet our different cooking needs.
The machine’s LCD screen displayed the temperature and our other presets, giving us a clear understanding of the machine’s status. The long power line meant that we didn’t need extra sockets if we used it over short distances.
We also appreciated the machine’s environmentally friendly design, as it runs on electricity rather than charcoal, which produces a lot of smoke and can cause harm to the environment.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for an efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly way to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ, the TFCFL Vertical Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit is an excellent choice.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best vertical pellet smoker, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for:
Size and Capacity
The size and capacity of the smoker is an important factor to consider. You need to ensure that it is large enough to accommodate the amount of food you want to smoke. If you have a large family or entertain often, you may want to consider a larger smoker. On the other hand, if you only smoke food occasionally, a smaller smoker may be sufficient.
Temperature Range
The temperature range of the smoker is also important. You want to ensure that it can reach high temperatures for cooking meat and low temperatures for smoking fish and vegetables. Look for a smoker that has a wide temperature range so that you can cook a variety of foods.
Pellet Hopper Capacity
The pellet hopper capacity is an important factor to consider if you plan on smoking for long periods of time. The larger the hopper, the less often you will need to refill it. Look for a smoker with a hopper capacity that matches your smoking needs.
Build Quality
The build quality of the smoker is also important. Look for a smoker that is made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel, that will last for many years. A well-built smoker will also be more efficient and provide better heat retention.
Ease of Use
The ease of use of the smoker is also an important factor to consider. Look for a smoker that is easy to assemble, use, and clean. A smoker with an intuitive control panel and easy-to-read temperature gauge will make smoking food a breeze.
Warranty
Finally, look for a smoker that comes with a warranty. A good warranty will give you peace of mind and protect your investment. Look for a warranty that covers the smoker for at least a year, and preferably longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some recommended vertical pellet smokers for beginners?
If you’re new to smoking, we recommend the Traeger Pro 575 or the Pit Boss Pro Series 4 Vertical Pellet Smoker. Both of these models are easy to use and come with digital controllers that make it easy to set and maintain the temperature.
What are the features to look for in a vertical pellet smoker under $500?
When shopping for a vertical pellet smoker under $500, look for models with a large cooking area, a digital controller, and a sturdy construction. The Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24″ and the Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D are both great options to consider.
What are the benefits of a vertical pellet smoker compared to other types?
Vertical pellet smokers offer several benefits over other types of smokers, including ease of use, consistent temperatures, and the ability to add smoke flavor without the need for wood chips or chunks. Additionally, vertical pellet smokers are more compact and take up less space than traditional offset smokers.
Which vertical pellet smoker has the largest hopper capacity?
The Pit Boss Austin XL has the largest hopper capacity of any vertical pellet smoker on the market, holding up to 31 pounds of pellets.
Are vertical pellet smokers worth the investment?
If you’re serious about smoking and want to achieve consistent results with minimal effort, a vertical pellet smoker is definitely worth the investment. With their digital controllers and set-it-and-forget-it operation, they make smoking easy and enjoyable.
What are some popular brands of vertical pellet smokers with WiFi connectivity?
If you’re looking for a vertical pellet smoker with WiFi connectivity, some popular brands to consider include Traeger, Camp Chef, and Pit Boss. These brands offer models with WiFi connectivity that allow you to monitor and control your smoker from your smartphone or tablet.
