Interested in purchasing a smoker for your backyard? There are many different types and styles to choose from, so it can be difficult to know which is the best option for you. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of a vertical pellet smoker and show you some of the best models on the market. We’ll also provide tips on how to select the right smoker for your needs and give you some ideas on how to use it to its fullest potential. Keep reading to learn more!
Best Overall: Pit Boss Grills 850 sq in Pellet Smoker
The PIT BOSS Grills 77550 5.5 Pellet Smoker is perfect for hosting the ultimate BBQ feast for your friends and family. With more cooking space and longer smoking times, this smoker is perfect for those who love to entertain.
Porcelain coated cooking racks ensure even heat distribution, while the hoppers can hold up to 40lbs of pellets, giving you plenty of fuel for a long day of smoking. With a temperature read of up to 450°F, you’ll have no trouble smoking whatever you like.
The PIT BOSS Pellet Smoker was designed with the outdoor chef in mind. This unique smoker uses 100% all-natural hardwood pellets to create savory, mouth-watering dishes that will impress your guests.
The pellets are easy to use and create less than 1% ash, ensuring a hassle-free cooking experience. With immense flavor and endless possibilities, the PIT BOSS Pellet Smoker is the perfect addition to any backyard patio or deck.
Features
450°F Max Temp
This bad boy is packed with features that will make your mouth water, including a digital LED readout and meat probe for monitoring internal temperatures, five porcelain coated cooking grids totaling 1548 square inches of cooking space, and a porcelain coated water pan and heat deflector.
You’ll also appreciate the 40+ lb hopper capacity with pellet purge, which allows you to smoke for 24+ hours without having to reload. And thanks to the fully programmable 150 – 450 temperature range, you can tailor your smoking experience to perfection.
Other highlights include an auto-start 300 watt igniter with auto shut-off, making it easy to get started, and two slide-out shelves that provide convenient access to your food.
Pros
easy to use and has great customer service.
Very big and able to cook many varieties of meat all at once.
Makes great smoky flavor.
Easy to assemble
The rack is removable
Easy to dump pellet
well-made with easy to follow instructions.
Cons
Heavy
Runner up Camp Chef XXL WiFi – Runner Up
Looking for a pellet grill that can do it all? Check out the Camp Chef XXL Pellet Smoker. This versatile smoker comes with four meat racks, three jerky racks, and a sausage rack with twelve hooks, so you’ll always have plenty of space for your favorite foods.
With the digital temperature control and Smart Smoke Technology, you can easily smokejerky, sausage, pork shoulders, and other cuts that don’t fit in your pellet grill. The dual meat temperate probes make it easy to keep an eye on your food
Features
33,000 BTUs/Hr
This smoker features four standard smoking racks, three jerky smoking racks, and one hanging rack with 12 sausage hooks – perfect for feeding a large crowd. Plus, with a temperature range of 150-350 degrees Fahrenheit, you can slow smoke or bake your favorite recipes. And thanks to the integrated ash cleanout system, cleanup is a breeze.
Pros
easy to assemble and produces great smoked food.
can be used to smoke a lot at once
could fit at least 8 10lb pork butts in at once
all the parts were clearly numbered, made it easy to follow the instructions.
Doesn’t take up much space on the ground
Set and forget technology
Accurate PID automatic temperature control
Separate setting for smoke level
WiFi connectivity for remote control
Cons
Dedicated smoker only
Best splurge: Pellet Pro® 2300
Looking for an extra large pellet smoker with plenty of cooking space? The Pellet Pro® 2300 is perfect for those who love to entertain. This vertical pellet smoker features (4) 21″ x 20″ stainless steel grates, providing 1680″ of grilling surface – plenty of space to accommodate large gatherings.
And with the exclusive PID controller, you can be sure that temperature will be maintained within 5-10°, ensuring perfectly cooked food every time. Made with 18 gauge double walled steel construction and a convection fan, the Pellet Pro® 2300 is built to last. So whether you’re smoking, grilling, or even baking, the Pellet Pro® 2300 is the perfect choice for your outdoor cooking needs.
Features
7 available levels for shelving!
2 110V outlets and 2 USB plugs attached to the back of the hopper assembly!
Upgraded Auger motor now mounted to auger shelf!
This innovative smoker features a Heavy D Stick Burning Heat Diffuser that allows you to easily convert your pellet grill into a stick burner. Simply remove your old heat diffuser and replace it with the Smoke Daddy “Heavy D”Diffuser, then fill the compartments with your desired wood chunks. The Pellet Pro® 2300 will quickly and easily produce high quality stick smoke, giving you the taste you crave without all the work.
This smoker is easy to use and can be placed in two different configurations, making it ideal for both short and long smoking sessions. The circular design means that it can be refilled without having to relight, and it also produces a beautiful smoke ring.
This incredible unit offers 1-2 hours of continuous smoke time, making it perfect for even your biggest cookout events. Its high output adjustable air pump ensures an adequate supply of oxygen for the larger wood chips or chunks, making sure that your food gets the perfect flavor every time.
Pros
easy to use and clean
Gorgeous smoke rings
perfect smoker for a big cook.
Heat resistant door seals protect against burning your hands
Automatic re-light features if temperature drops
Exclusive PID controller maintains temperature within a 5 and 10 degree
Cons
Takes up a lot of space
Best for Beef Jerky: Camp Chef Vertical Wifi Pellet Smoker
Is there anything better than the taste of food smoked to perfection? With the Camp Chef PGVXXLC Wi-Fi Pellet Smoker, you can enjoy that delicious smoked flavor any time you want. This smoker comes with four meat racks, three jerky racks, and a sausage rack with twelve hooks, so you’ll always have plenty of space for your favorite foods.
The digital temperature control and Smart Smoke Technology make it easy to get the perfect smoke every time, while the dual meat temperate probes let you keep a close eye on your food. When you’re done cooking, the Ash Cleanout system makes cleanup a breeze. Get ready to enjoy some of the best-tasting smoked food you’ve ever had!
Features
This amazing pellet smoker comes with a new WI-FI Controller included, so you can control the temperature and smoke level from your smartphone or tablet. It also includes 4 Smoking Grill Grates, 3 Jerky Racks, 2 Temp Read Probes, and 1 Hanging Rack w/ 12 Sausage Hooks, so you can smoke or grill whatever you want.
Additionally, the Camp Chef PGVXXLC is compatible with the Deluxe Collapsible Side Shelf (PGXXLSH), which makes it even more versatile. And with its Grease Mgmt System, Pellet Hopper Purge, Smart Smoke Technology, and Ash Cleanout System, this pellet smoker is easy to use and maintain.
Pros
great for cooking a variety of foods
High capacity vertical smoker
Very versatile for cold and hot smoking applications
Dual temperature probes and Smart Smoke Technology
Comes with jerky racks and sausage hooks
Cons
Racks are not coated
Best vertical propane smoker – Masterbuilt MPS 340/G ThermoTemp XL Propane Smoker
If you’re serious about smoking, then you need the Masterbuilt MB20051316 Propane Smoker with Thermostat Control. This 40-inch smoker is perfect for smoking large quantities of meat at once, with four smoking racks that provide plenty of room to smoke up to 16 chickens, 6 turkeys, 8 racks of ribs, or 8 pork butts.
The innovative ThermoTemp XL technology lets you set the temperature and walk away, meaning you don’t have to constantly monitor or adjust the temperature. And in case of any accident, the safety shut-off valve provides a safe smoking experience. So if you want to master the art of smoking, go with the Masterbuilt MB20051316 Propane Smoker with Thermostat Control.
Features
15,750 BTU stainless steel burner
A temperature sensor to control the burner, maintaining your desired temperature throughout the cooking process.
Four chrome-coated smoking racks provide ample space for all your favorite meats.
With its thermostat control, you can set the desired temperature and the smoker will maintain that temperature, so you don’t have to worry about monitoring or adjusting the temperature. The smoker has four chrome-coated smoking racks for 961 square inches of cooking space, so you can smoke large quantities of meat at one time.
The safety valve shuts off the burner if the flame is extinguished, so you can be sure that your food will be cooked safely.
Pros
durable, efficient, and easy to use.
Great built-in thermostat
easy to assemble
can be used to smoke different cuts of pork, chicken, and fish.
Heats up / starts smoking quickly
easily holds a rack of ribs or a full brisket.
Good sized chip tray.
Cons
the hose for the propane tank is not long enough
Best vertical smoker for long cooks – Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco Pro
Oklahoma Joe’s 19202100 Bronco Pro Drum Smoker is designed for competition cooking with its large 21.5-inch cooking surface and 17-pound fuel capacity.
The unique airflow control system provides consistent and precise control over smoking temps, while the cooking grate, 3 meat hangers, 9 meat hooks and heat diffuser allow for maximum flexibility so you can smoke your way.
The large ash pan, porcelain-coated components and drain cap allow for easy clean-up at competitions. Heavy-gauge steel construction delivers durability that’s built to last.
Features
With a 21.5-inch diameter cooking surface and 17-pound fuel capacity, this smoker is built for competition-grade performance. Plus, the unique airflow control system provides precise temperature control, ensuring perfect results every time. The included accessories – cooking grate, 3 meat hangers, 9 meat hooks and heat diffuser – provide maximum flexibility to smoke your own way.
This smoker is built to last with heavy-gauge steel construction and large wagon-style wheels for maximum mobility. The side shelf is great for holding tools and supplies, and the rubber handle grip is easy-to-grab and stays cool-to-the-touch. The oversize charcoal basket provides ample fuel for long smoking times, while the large ash pan, porcelain-coated components, and drain cap allow for easy cleanup.
This smoker features a name plate for custom graphics, making it perfect for representing your team or business. It also has a hinged lid with gasket to ensure a tight seal, as well as a barrel-mounted temp gauge with glow-in-the-dark accents for greater visibility.
Pros
The smoker is huge, heavy, efficient and can holds up to 17lbs of fuel
Temperatures are easy to control and stable
Easy to transport and move around
make a great Father’s Day gift, birthday/anniversary
Cons
Charcoal swapping in the middle of the cook requires extra steps
Best vertical charcoal smoker – Weber Smokey Mountain
The Weber Smokey Mountain charcoal smoker is the perfect way to achieve an authentic smokehouse flavor at home. This smoker can accommodate a whole turkey and an entire ham at the same time, thanks to its two nickel-plated 18-1/2-inch-wide cooking grates.
Made of porcelain-enameled steel, this smoker also comes with a water pan, thermometer, individual vents on the bowl and lid, and a heat-resistant nylon handle. So whether you’re smoking meats for a family gathering or preparing for a backyard barbecue, the Weber Smokey Mountain cooker will help you create mouthwatering results that everyone will love.
Features
This charcoal smoker is perfect for low and slow cooking, yielding juicy, falls-off-the-bone results every time.
With two cooking grates, it’s easy to smoke multiple items at once, and the removable door and adjustable dampers make it simple to control the heat. Whether you’re whipping up a batch of ribs or pulled pork, the Smokey Mountain Cooker will help you create mouthwatering dishes that your friends and family will love. Choose from three sizes ( 14″, 18″, and 22″) to get the perfect fit for your needs.
Pros
a quality product that does not require pre-seasoning
perfect for cooking ribs.
Excellent temp control. The water bowl inside makes it easy to maintain 225-250°F all day with very little fuss.
Awesome air control. One load of charcoal can smoke for 6 hours without reloading.
Built to last: If it ever does need maintenance, Weber stocks parts for decades.
Double-decker racks mean you can do a lot of food. The 18-inch is perfect for me — I can make 3 racks of ribs (using a rack rib that stands them up vertically) and a shoulder, a couple of potatoes, and maybe a turkey leg.
big enough for two people, with the possibility of cooking for four.
Cons
Longer cooking time/more charcoal in cold weather
Buying Guide
What is a Vertical Pellet Smoker?
A vertical pellet smoker is a type of smoker that uses pellets as its fuel source. The pellets are made from compressed sawdust and typically contain wood flavors, which can infuse your food with a smoky taste. Pellet smokers are easy to use and require little maintenance, making them a popular choice for those who want to enjoy smoked foods without the hassle of traditional smokers.
What are the Benefits of Using a Vertical Pellet Smoker?
There are many benefits to using a vertical pellet smoker. One benefit is that they are very easy to use. Simply load the pellets into the hopper, set the temperature, and let the smoker do its job. Additionally, because pellets are a renewable resource, they are a more environmentally-friendly option than traditional smokers that use charcoal or propane. Pellet smokers also tend to be more affordable than other types of smokers, making them a great option for those on a budget.
How Does a Vertical Pellet Smoker Work?
A vertical pellet smoker works by igniting the pellets in the hopper and allowing them to smolder. The smoke from the pellets will rise through the smoker, infusing your food with flavor. Pellet smokers typically have a temperature gauge so you can easily monitor the internal temperature of the smoker and adjust as needed. Additionally, most pellet smokers have a digital control panel that makes it easy to set the temperature and timer.
Types of Vertical Pellet Smokers
Standard: A standard vertical pellet smoker is a tall, cylindrical smoker that typically has four legs for stability. Standard smokers typically have a hopper on the side or back of the unit, which you will need to fill with pellets before smoking.
Offset: An offset vertical pellet smoker is similar to a standard smoker, but the hopper is positioned to the side of the unit instead of on the back. This allows you to easily access the hopper for refilling without having to move the entire smoker.
Reverse Flow: A reverse flow vertical pellet smoker is similar to an offset smoker, but the smoke chamber is positioned above the hopper. This design allows for even smoking and eliminates hot spots within the smoker.
What Can You Cook on a Vertical Pellet Smoker?
You can cook just about anything on a vertical pellet smoker. However, because of their design, they work best for longer cooks such as whole chickens, turkeys, and briskets. Pellet smokers also work well for smoking fish, ribs, and pork shoulders. If you are looking to smoke smaller items such as burgers or hot dogs, you may want to consider a different type of smoker.
What Temperature Should I Set My Smoker?
The ideal temperature for smoking meat is between 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit. However, each type of meat has its own ideal temperature, so be sure to consult a cooking guide before smoking. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that the temperature inside a pellet smoker can vary depending on the outside temperature, wind, and other factors. As such, it is important to monitor the internal temperature of your smoker during cooking.
How Much Smoke Should I Use?
The amount of smoke you use will depend on your personal preference. If you want a light smoke flavor, use less wood pellets. For a stronger flavor, use more pellets. It is also important to note that different types of wood will impart different flavors to your food. For example, hickory wood will give your food a strong, smoky flavor while cherry wood will provide a sweeter flavor. Experiment with different types of wood to find the flavor you prefer.
How Do I Clean My Smoker?
Cleaning your smoker is important to ensure that your food tastes its best. After each use, be sure to empty the ash tray and clean out any debris that has accumulated in the smoker. Additionally, it is a good idea to wipe down the inside of the smoker with a damp cloth after each use.
Once a month, you should also deep clean your smoker by removing the grates and wiping down the interior with soapy water. Following these simple steps will keep your smoker in top condition and ensure that your food always tastes its best.
What Should You Look for When Buying a Vertical Pellet Smoker?
Vertical Pellet Smoker Water Pan Capacity: Most vertical pellet smokers have a water pan capacity of between 1 and 5 quarts. Choose a smoker with a water pan that is the right size for your needs.
Pellet Smoker Hopper Capacity: The hopper is where you store the wood pellets that will be used to smoke your food. Most pellet smokers have a hopper capacity of between 8 and 20 pounds. Choose a smoker with a hopper that is the right size for your needs.
Vertical Pellet Smoker Cooking Grates: The cooking grates are where you place your food to be smoked. Most vertical pellet smokers have stainless steel or porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates. Choose a smoker with cooking grates that are easy to clean and offer good heat retention.
Temperature Control: Look for a vertical pellet smoker that offers precise temperature control. This will allow you to smoking at the ideal temperature for your food.
Digital Display: A digital display makes it easy to see the current temperature and set the desired temperature. Choose a smoker with a digital display for ease of use.
Pellet Smoker Heating Element: The heating element is what heats the wood pellets and creates smoke. Most pellet smokers have a heating element that is between 500 and 1000 watts. Choose a smoker with a heating element that is the right size for your needs.
Ease of Use: Look for a pellet smoker that is easy to use. Choose a smoker with simple controls and an easy-to-read digital display.
Ease of Cleaning: Look for a pellet smoker that is easy to clean. Choose a smoker with removable grates and a drip tray that can be easily removed and cleaned.
Warranty: Choose a pellet smoker that comes with a good warranty. This will protect your investment in case anything goes wrong with the smoker.
Setting Options & Accesories:
Some pellet smokers come with additional features and accessories that can be useful. Here are some things to look for:
A cover: A cover can help to protect your pellet smoker from the elements and keep it clean when not in use.
An automatic shut-off: An automatic shut-off will turn off the pellet smoker when it reaches the desired temperature, preventing overcooking.
A meat probe: A meat probe is a thermometer that can be inserted into the meat to check the internal temperature. This is helpful for ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection.
FAQs
What are the best vertical pellet smokers?
The best vertical pellet smokers include the Pit Boss Grills 850 sq in Pellet Smoker, Camp Chef XXL WiFi Pellet Smoker, and the Pellet Pro 2300.
How do I choose the right pellet smoker for my needs?
When choosing a pellet smoker, it is important to consider the size, type of fuel, and features that you need. You should also think about how often you will use the smoker and what type of food you will be smoking.
How often add wood chips to vertical smoker?
It is typically recommended to add wood chips every 30-60 minutes when smoking with a vertical smoker. However, this will vary depending on the type of smoker and the temperature that you are smoking at. Always check your smoker’s instructions for specific guidance.
What is the best way to use a vertical pellet smoker?
The best way to use a vertical pellet smoker is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It is also important to keep an eye on the temperature and smoke levels so that your food does not become overcooked or burned.
Can you cook steaks on a vertical pellet smoker?
Yes, you can cook steaks on a vertical pellet smoker. Steaks should be cooked on high heat for the best results.
Where is it hottest in a vertical smoker?
The hottest part of a vertical smoker is typically near the top. This is why it is important to rotate your food so that all sides are evenly cooked.
What can I smoke in a vertical pellet smoker?
You can smoke anything in a vertical pellet smoker that you would normally smoke in any other type of smoker. This includes meats, vegetables, fish, and cheese.
Can you get a smoke ring with a pellet smoker?
Yes, you can get a smoke ring with a pellet smoker. The key is to make sure that your pellets are properly lit and that the smoker is not too hot.
What is the difference between a vertical pellet smoker and a horizontal pellet smoker?
A vertical pellet smoker is taller than it is wide, while a horizontal pellet smoker is wider than it is tall. Vertical smokers typically have less cooking space than horizontal smokers, but they are more efficient because the heat rises straight up. This allows for better temperature control and less chance of overcooking.
Are pellet smokers worth it?
Pellet smokers are definitely worth the investment if you are serious about smoking food. They are more expensive than other types of smokers, but they offer superior temperature control, consistency, and ease of use.
Are vertical smokers any good?
Yes, vertical smokers are definitely good. They offer better temperature control than horizontal smokers and they can be more efficient since the heat rises straight up.
What is the best wood for smoking with a pellet smoker?
The best woods for smoking with a pellet smoker include hickory, mesquite, apple, and cherry. These woods all provide a great flavor to your food.
Do I need to soak my pellets before smoking?
No, you do not need to soak your pellets before smoking. However, some people like to soak their pellets in water or whiskey for an hour or so before adding them to the smoker. This helps to prevent the pellets from igniting too quickly.
Is a vertical smoker better than an offset?
It really depends on your preferences. Vertical smokers offer better temperature control and can be more efficient, but they typically have less cooking space than offset smokers. Offset smokers are cheaper and easier to find, but they can be more difficult to use.
What do you use a vertical smoker for?
Vertical smokers can be used for smoking any type of food, including meats, vegetables, fish, and cheese. They offer better temperature control than horizontal smokers and can be more efficient since the heat rises straight up.
Can you grill on a vertical smoker?
Yes, you can grill on a vertical smoker. The key is to make sure that the smoker is not too hot so that your food does not become overcooked or burned.
What is the best temperature to smoke chicken on a pellet smoker?
The best temperature to smoke chicken on a pellet smoker is between 225 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Chicken should be cooked for about 2 hours at this temperature.
Can you put foil in a pellet smoker?
Yes, you can put foil in a pellet smoker. Foil can help to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Just make sure that the foil does not touch the heating element so that it does not catch fire.
Is it hard to use a pellet smoker?
Pellet smokers are not difficult to use, but they do require some patience and practice to get the hang of. Once you have the basics down, smoking with a pellet smoker is fairly easy.
Is Dyna Glo a good smoker?
Dyna Glo smokers are definitely good. They offer superior temperature control and ease of use, and they are relatively affordable. However, they can be difficult to find in stores.
Can you put water in a pellet smoker?
Yes, you can put water in a pellet smoker. Water can help to create steam and add moisture to your food. Just make sure that the water pan does not touch the heating element so that it does not boil dry.
Do you need to flip meat when smoking?
No, you do not need to flip meat when smoking. Meat can be smoked without flipping, but it will cook unevenly if you do not flip it periodically.
Is a pellet smoker worth the investment?
Pellet smokers are definitely worth the investment if you are serious about smoking food. They are more expensive than other types of smokers, but they offer superior temperature control, consistency, and ease of use.
Does Traeger make a vertical pellet smoker?
Yes, Traeger make a vertical pellet smoker. The Traeger Lil’ Tex Elite 22 is a great option for those looking for a quality vertical pellet smoker.
How long does it take to smoke ribs on a pellet smoker?
Ribs can be smoked in as little as 3 hours on a pellet smoker. However, for best results, it is recommended that you smoke ribs for 4-5 hours.
How do you smoke a brisket in a vertical pellet smoker?
To smoke a brisket in a vertical pellet smoker, you will need to cook it for 10-12 hours at a temperature of 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit. For best results, wrap the brisket in foil after it has been cooking for 6 hours.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a smoker that will help you take your BBQ game to the next level, one of the best vertical pellet smokers on the market is definitely worth considering. With these smokers, you can cook delicious meals in short time with minimal effort – perfect for any party or gathering. So what are you waiting for? Pick up one of these smokers and start impressing your guests with some amazing BBQ!
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