Vertical pellet smokers are a preferred option for enthusiasts of grilling and smoked dishes. The unique flavor these smokers give to meals is due to their use of wood pellets for fuel. They differ from regular smokers with their tall, slim design which makes them perfect for places with limited outdoor room. Moreover, they require minimal maintenance and are easy to use.
When it comes to choosing the best vertical pellet smoker, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the size of the smoker. You’ll want to make sure that the smoker is large enough to accommodate the amount of food you plan to smoke. The second thing to consider is the quality of the smoker. You’ll want to choose a smoker that is made from high-quality materials and is built to last.
Another important factor to consider is the temperature range of the smoker. You’ll want to make sure that the smoker can reach and maintain the desired temperature for the type of food you plan to smoke. Finally, you’ll want to consider the ease of use of the smoker. Look for a smoker that is easy to set up and use, with intuitive controls and features that make smoking food a breeze.
After researching and testing several vertical pellet smokers, we’ve identified the top models that stand out in terms of quality, performance, and ease of use. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at each of our top picks and what makes them the best choice for those who love to smoke food.
Best Vertical Pellet Smokers
We have researched and tested various vertical pellet smokers to bring you our top picks. These smokers are designed to provide a unique smoking experience with a large cooking area and a vertical design that allows for even heat distribution. Our list includes models that are easy to use, durable, and offer excellent value for their price. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned smoker, these vertical pellet smokers are sure to enhance your outdoor cooking game. Check out our top picks below.
1. PIT BOSS Grills 77550 5.5 Pellet Smoker
PIT BOSS Grills 77550 5.5 Pellet Smoker
If you’re looking for a high-capacity pellet smoker with a fully programmable digital controller, then the PIT BOSS Grills 77550 5.5 Pellet Smoker is a great choice!
Pros
- The 5.5 cu’ capacity and five cooking racks provide plenty of cooking space.
- The digital LED readout and meat probe make it easy to monitor internal temperatures.
- The 40+ lb hopper capacity allows for up to 24 hours of use.
Cons
- The smoker may have a learning curve for those used to other models.
- The unit may arrive with cosmetic damage due to shipping.
- The hopper may have some issues with pellet flow.
We recently had the chance to try out the PIT BOSS Grills 77550 5.5 Pellet Smoker and were impressed with its features. The top-loading pellet hopper at the rear of the unit is a unique design that allows for increased capacity and easy loading. The fully programmable digital controller gives you complete control of the temperature range between 150-450 degrees Fahrenheit.
The double-walled construction with blanket insulation ensures that internal temperatures are maintained even on the coldest nights. The 40+ lb hopper capacity with pellet purge allows you to smoke low and slow for over 24 hours. The five porcelain-coated cooking grids, 1548 sq in, include a porcelain-coated water pan and heat deflector.
One of the standout features of this smoker is the digital LED readout and meat probe, which make it easy to monitor internal temperatures. The auto-start 300 watt igniter with auto shut-off is also a nice touch.
While the smoker may have a learning curve for those used to other models, we found that it was easy to get the hang of after a few uses. However, the unit may arrive with cosmetic damage due to shipping. Additionally, the hopper may have some issues with pellet flow, which can be frustrating for some users.
Overall, we think that the PIT BOSS Grills 77550 5.5 Pellet Smoker is a great choice for those looking for a high-capacity pellet smoker with a fully programmable digital controller.
2. Pellet Pro® 2300 Vertical Pellet Smoker DOUBLE WALL Cabinet Free Cover and Convection Fan – Home Delivery
Pellet Pro® 2300 Vertical Pellet Smoker
If you’re looking for a vertical pellet smoker that offers ample cooking space, then you might want to consider the Pellet Pro® 2300. This smoker comes with a PID controller that helps maintain the temperature within 5-10°, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection.
Pros
- The Pellet Pro® 2300 offers an extra-large cooking area of 10 cubic feet, which is perfect for cooking large cuts of meat.
- The smoker comes with (3) 21″ x 20″ stainless steel grates and a 7-section rib rack, making it easy to cook multiple items at once.
- The 18-gauge double-walled steel construction and convection fan help distribute heat evenly, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection.
Cons
- The Pellet Pro® 2300 is quite heavy, weighing in at 200 pounds, so it may be difficult to move around.
- Some users have reported that the grate frames can be a bit slippery, which can make them difficult to handle.
- The smoker is quite large, so it may take up a lot of space on your patio or deck.
We recently had the chance to try out the Pellet Pro® 2300, and we were impressed with its performance. The smoker was easy to assemble, and the instructions were clear and concise. Once we had it set up, we loaded it up with some ribs, brisket, and chicken, and let it do its thing.
The PID controller worked like a charm, keeping the temperature steady throughout the cooking process. We were also impressed with the amount of cooking space the smoker offered. We were able to cook all of our meats at once, which saved us a lot of time and hassle.
One thing we did notice was that the smoker is quite heavy, so it may be difficult to move around. However, we were able to find a spot for it on our patio, and it looked great next to our other outdoor cooking appliances.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Pellet Pro® 2300 to anyone who is looking for a high-quality vertical pellet smoker. It’s easy to use, offers ample cooking space, and produces delicious, perfectly cooked meats every time.
3. Yellulu Vertical Pellet Smoker
Yellulu Vertical Pellet Smoker
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly vertical pellet smoker, the Yellulu Vertical Pellet Smoker is a decent option.
Pros
- The machine can control its temperature precisely so that your different needs can be met precisely.
- The temperature of this grill pellet can be adjusted by the panel of the machine.
- The machine runs on electricity rather than charcoal, which produces a lot of smoke, and does little harm to the environment.
Cons
- The machine has a high temperature, and your food can cook quickly, which may result in overcooked food.
- The meat needles are not included, so you need to prepare them yourself.
- The auger has a tendency to easily get jammed on a pellet pinching it between the wire and tunnel housing.
The Yellulu Vertical Pellet Smoker is made of iron, which is sturdy and high-temperature resistant. This wood pellet smoker grill can grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ, making it a versatile option. The machine has an LCD screen that displays the temperature and your other presets, so you can have a clear knowledge of the machine’s state. The power cord of this machine is very long, and if you use pellet BBQ smoker hopper assembly kit over short distances, you don’t need an extra outlet.
However, the machine has a high temperature, and your food can cook quickly, which may result in overcooked food. The meat needles are not included, so you need to prepare them yourself. The auger has a tendency to easily get jammed on a pellet pinching it between the wire and tunnel housing.
In conclusion, the Yellulu Vertical Pellet Smoker is a decent budget-friendly option for those who want to try out a pellet smoker. However, if you’re looking for a more high-end option, this may not be the best choice for you.
4. Qfire 1077 Door Latch Compatible With Pit Boss Pro Series II 4-Series Vertical Wood Pellet Smoker
1077 Door Latch Compatible With Pit Boss Pro Series II 4-Series Vertical Wood Pellet Smoker
If you’re looking for a replacement door latch for your Pit Boss Pro Series II 4-Series Wood Pellet Vertical Smoker, the Qfire 1077 Door Latch is a great option.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Fits specific Pit Boss Pro Series models
- Comes with screws
Cons
- Only compatible with specific Pit Boss Pro Series models
- May not be as durable as original latch
- Limited customer reviews
We recently installed the Qfire 1077 Door Latch on our Pit Boss Pro Series II 4-Series Wood Pellet Vertical Smoker and found it to be a simple and straightforward replacement. The package includes the door latch replacement and two screws, making installation a breeze. We appreciated that the latch was specifically designed to fit our Pit Boss Pro Series model.
While the Qfire 1077 Door Latch is a great replacement option, it’s important to note that it’s only compatible with specific Pit Boss Pro Series models. Additionally, it may not be as durable as the original latch, so it’s important to handle it with care.
Overall, if you’re in need of a replacement door latch for your Pit Boss Pro Series II 4-Series Wood Pellet Vertical Smoker, the Qfire 1077 Door Latch is a solid choice. It’s easy to install and fits specific models, making it a convenient option for those in need of a replacement latch.
5. Pit Boss 1077-Sq in Black Sand Pellet Smoker
Pit Boss 1077-Sq in Black Sand Pellet Smoker
If you are looking for a vertical pellet smoker, you should consider the Pit Boss 1077-Sq in Black Sand Pellet Smoker. It has WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities, 1,077 square inches of adjustable cooking space, and a fully programmable PID control board.
Pros
- The WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities allow you to control the smoker from your phone, making it more convenient to use.
- The 1,077 square inches of adjustable cooking space give you plenty of room to cook for a large group of people.
- The fully programmable PID control board lets you reach temperatures from 150° – 420°F, making it easier to cook your food to the perfect temperature.
Cons
- Assembly is required, which may be a hassle for some people.
- Some customers have reported that the smoker only produces a “smoke” flavor on low temperatures, and when the temperature is turned up, it’s like baking in an oven.
- The door may sag or have a dent, which could affect the smoker’s performance.
We recently tried out the Pit Boss 1077-Sq in Black Sand Pellet Smoker, and we were impressed with its features. The WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities made it easy to control the temperature and monitor the meat probes from our phone. The 1,077 square inches of cooking space gave us plenty of room to cook for a large group of people. We also appreciated the fully programmable PID control board, which allowed us to reach the perfect temperature for our food.
However, we did have some issues with the smoker. Assembly was required, which took some time and effort. Additionally, we noticed that the smoker only produced a “smoke” flavor on low temperatures, and when we turned it up, it was like baking in an oven. Finally, the door sagged and had a dent, which affected the smoker’s performance.
Overall, we would recommend the Pit Boss 1077-Sq in Black Sand Pellet Smoker to anyone looking for a vertical pellet smoker with WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities and plenty of cooking space. However, be aware that assembly is required, and the smoker may not produce the desired flavor at higher temperatures.
6. DIRECT IGNITER 18″ Vertical Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit
DIRECT IGNITER 18″ Vertical Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit
If you’re looking to build a custom pellet smoker without breaking the bank, the DIRECT IGNITER 18″ Vertical Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit might be worth considering.
Pros
- Easy and cheap way to build a custom pellet smoker
- Digital display with meat probe sensor and smoke mode with P-setting
- Can hold up to 20 lbs of pellets
Cons
- Temperature control can be challenging
- Some customers received the unit with loose screws and a loose auger
- No operational manual included
We recently tried out the DIRECT IGNITER 18″ Vertical Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit and were impressed with its versatility and affordability. Building a custom pellet smoker has never been easier or more budget-friendly. The digital display with meat probe sensor and smoke mode with P-setting make it easy to monitor and adjust the temperature, and the hopper can hold up to 20 lbs of pellets, so you won’t have to refill it often.
However, we did encounter some challenges with temperature control. It took some trial and error to get the temperature just right, and even then, it wasn’t always consistent. Additionally, some customers received the unit with loose screws and a loose auger, which made installation more difficult than it needed to be. Finally, there was no operational manual included, which made it difficult to troubleshoot any issues that arose.
Overall, if you’re willing to put in a little extra effort to get the temperature just right, the DIRECT IGNITER 18″ Vertical Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit is a great option for anyone looking to build a custom pellet smoker on a budget.
7. Direct Igniter 12″ Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit
Direct Igniter 12″ Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit
If you’re looking for an affordable and easy way to build your own custom pellet smoker, the Direct Igniter 12″ Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit is a great option.
Pros
- Comes with all the necessary electrical components to build a custom pellet smoker
- Auto start/auto light and shut down mode for convenience
- Includes meat probe for perfect doneness every time
Cons
- Temperature control could be more accurate
- Instructions could be clearer and more detailed
- Designed for small to medium size smokers only
We recently used the Direct Igniter 12″ Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit to build our own custom pellet smoker and were impressed with its performance. The kit comes with everything you need to build a custom pellet smoker, including the pellet hopper body, digital control board, RTD sensor probe, meat sensor probe, igniter, burn pot, auger motor, auger shaft rod, and combustion/induction fan.
One of the things we appreciated about this kit was the auto start/auto light and shut down mode, which made it easy to use and operate. The meat probe was also a nice touch, as it allowed us to monitor the internal temperature of our meat and ensure perfect doneness every time.
However, we did notice that the temperature control could be more accurate, as our cabinet temperature tended to stay around 140-150F on the smoke setting and between 170-190F on the 200 setting. Additionally, the instructions could have been clearer and more detailed, especially when it came to designing a proper flame guard and drip tray for best results.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and easy way to build your own custom pellet smoker, the Direct Igniter 12″ Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit is a great option. Just be aware that it’s designed for small to medium size smokers only and may require some tweaking to get the temperature control just right.
8. Pellet Pro® “Double D” Double Door Vertical Cabinet Pellet Smoker with Stick Burning Capability and PID Controller
Pellet Pro® “Double D” Double Door Vertical Cabinet Pellet Smoker with Stick Burning Capability and PID Controller
If you’re looking for a large, versatile vertical pellet smoker that can handle both wood pellets and stick burning, the Pellet Pro® “Double D” Double Door Vertical Cabinet Pellet Smoker with Stick Burning Capability and PID Controller is worth considering.
Pros
- The extra-large size and included racks make it easy to cook for a crowd.
- The Pellet Pro PID controller keeps the temperature stable and within 5 to 10 degrees of your set temperature.
- The fully insulated cabinet retains heat well, making it suitable for use in cold climates.
Cons
- The large size and weight of the smoker can make it challenging to move and store.
- The price point may be too high for some consumers.
- The stick burning capability may not be necessary for all users.
We found that the Pellet Pro® “Double D” Double Door Vertical Cabinet Pellet Smoker with Stick Burning Capability and PID Controller was easy to use and produced consistent results. The included racks provided ample cooking space, and the PID controller kept the temperature stable throughout the cooking process. The fully insulated cabinet also retained heat well, even in colder weather.
One potential downside to this smoker is its size and weight. It’s not the most portable option, and it may be challenging to store if you have limited space. Additionally, the stick burning capability may not be necessary for all users, and the price point may be a bit steep for some consumers.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality vertical pellet smoker with plenty of cooking space and the ability to burn wood pellets and sticks, the Pellet Pro® “Double D” Double Door Vertical Cabinet Pellet Smoker with Stick Burning Capability and PID Controller is a solid choice.
9. Cuisinart COS-116 Vertical Charcoal Smoker
Cuisinart COS-116 Vertical Charcoal Smoker
If you’re looking for a simple and affordable charcoal smoker, the Cuisinart COS-116 Vertical Charcoal Smoker is a great option.
Pros
- The two 16″ stainless steel racks provide ample cooking space for your favorite foods.
- The porcelain enamel water bowl helps keep your food moist and flavorful.
- The top and bottom vents provide a dual air vent system for easy temperature control.
Cons
- The latching base could be sturdier.
- The vertically hinged door may not seal tightly enough for some users.
- The assembly instructions could be clearer.
We recently tried out the Cuisinart COS-116 Vertical Charcoal Smoker and were impressed with its performance. The two stainless steel racks provided enough space to smoke a whole chicken and several racks of ribs at the same time. The porcelain enamel water bowl helped keep the meat moist and flavorful throughout the smoking process.
We found that the top and bottom vents provided a great dual air vent system that allowed us to easily control the temperature and smoke level. However, we did notice that the latching base felt a bit flimsy and could be sturdier. Additionally, the vertically hinged door didn’t seal as tightly as we would have liked, but this didn’t affect the overall smoking experience.
Overall, we think the Cuisinart COS-116 Vertical Charcoal Smoker is a great option for those looking for an affordable and easy-to-use charcoal smoker. With its simple assembly process and dual air vent system, this smoker is perfect for beginners and experienced pitmasters alike.
10. Pellet Pro Smoke Daddy Convection Circulation Fan
Pellet Pro Smoke Daddy Convection Circulation Fan
If you’re looking to upgrade your vertical smoker, the Pellet Pro Smoke Daddy Convection Circulation Fan is a great choice. It’s compatible with Pit Boss, Traeger, and Camp Chef grills, and it helps eliminate uneven temperatures, hot and cold spots, and unpredictable smoking results.
Pros
- Achieve consistent heat circulation throughout your smoker for perfect smoking every time
- Whisper-quiet operation for a peaceful smoking experience
- Enhances air circulation for smokers, improving temperature control and helping you achieve that coveted smoke ring and rich flavor in your barbecue
Cons
- You may need to purchase additional bolts for installation on thicker walls
- The fan shaft may not clear 360 degrees on the inside of your smoker, so be sure to check before drilling
- The product doesn’t come with hardware
We installed the Pellet Pro Smoke Daddy Convection Circulation Fan on our custom smoker and we were impressed with how effortless the installation was. The fan is also very quiet, so we could focus on perfecting our recipes without being disrupted by noisy fans.
The fan shaft is 1″ long, which ensures that the fan efficiently circulates heat throughout the entire area, eliminating hot and cold spots. We achieved consistent results and flavorful smoked meats with ease. The fan also enhances air circulation for smokers, improving temperature control and helping us achieve that coveted smoke ring and rich flavor in our barbecue.
Overall, we highly recommend the Pellet Pro Smoke Daddy Convection Circulation Fan for anyone looking to upgrade their vertical smoker. It’s a game-changer that will help you achieve professional-quality smoking at home.
11. TFCFL Vertical Pellet Smoker
TFCFL Vertical Pellet Smoker
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly pellet smoker that provides accurate temperature control, the TFCFL Vertical Pellet Smoker is a great option.
Pros
- The machine is made of sturdy iron material which makes it durable and high-temperature resistant.
- The precise temperature control feature allows you to cook your food without worrying that it may get overcooked.
- The machine has a high temperature, so your food can be cooked quickly.
Cons
- The machine doesn’t come with meat needles, so you need to buy them separately.
- The power cord of this machine is long, which can be a bit inconvenient if you need to use it over short distances.
- The LCD screen is a bit small, which can make it difficult to read the temperature and other presets.
We were impressed with the TFCFL Vertical Pellet Smoker’s ability to cook food evenly and precisely. The adjustable temperature feature allows you to control the temperature of the grill pellet. It is suitable for grilling, smoking, baking, broiling, braising, and BBQ. You can use it in your yard, garden, or anywhere else.
The machine runs on electricity, which makes it environmentally friendly. It doesn’t produce a lot of smoke and does little harm to the environment. The LCD screen displays the temperature and other presets, allowing you to have a clear knowledge of the machine’s status. The power cord of this machine is long, so you don’t need an extra outlet if you use it over short distances.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly pellet smoker that provides accurate temperature control, the TFCFL Vertical Pellet Smoker is a great option. It is easy to use and clean and can cook your food evenly and precisely.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a vertical pellet smoker, there are a few things to consider to ensure you choose the best product for your needs. In this buying guide, we will go over some of the key features to look for when shopping for a vertical pellet smoker.
Size
One of the first things to consider when choosing a vertical pellet smoker is the size. You want to make sure that the smoker is large enough to fit the amount of food you plan to cook. Consider the number of people you will be cooking for and the types of food you will be smoking. A larger smoker will be able to handle bigger cuts of meat and larger quantities of food.
Temperature Range
Another important feature to consider is the temperature range. Look for a smoker that can reach high temperatures for searing and low temperatures for smoking. A good temperature range is between 180°F and 500°F.
Pellet Hopper Capacity
The pellet hopper capacity is another important feature to consider. A larger hopper will allow you to smoke for longer periods of time without having to refill the hopper. Look for a hopper capacity of at least 15 pounds.
Construction
The construction of the smoker is also important. Look for a smoker made from high-quality materials that will last for many years. Stainless steel is a good choice for durability and easy cleaning.
Ease of Use
Finally, consider the ease of use of the smoker. Look for a smoker with easy-to-use controls and a digital display. Some smokers also come with Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing you to monitor and control the smoker from your smartphone.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best vertical pellet smoker for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best vertical pellet smokers for under $500?
There are several good options for vertical pellet smokers under $500. One of the best is the Pit Boss Pro Series 4 Vertical Pellet Smoker, which offers four cooking racks and a total cooking area of 1,322 square inches. Another great option is the Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D 30″ Digital Electric Smoker, which has a large viewing window and a digital thermostat for precise temperature control.
What are people saying about the Masterbuilt Vertical Pellet Smoker?
The Masterbuilt Vertical Pellet Smoker is a popular choice among consumers. Many people appreciate its ease of use and consistent performance. Some users have reported issues with the WiFi connectivity, but overall, the Masterbuilt Vertical Pellet Smoker is a reliable and well-regarded option.
How does the Camp Chef vertical pellet smoker compare to other brands?
The Camp Chef vertical pellet smoker is a high-quality option that compares favorably to other brands in its price range. It offers precise temperature control and a large cooking area, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced smokers.
What are the advantages of using a vertical pellet smoker over a pellet grill?
Vertical pellet smokers offer several advantages over pellet grills. They typically have a larger cooking area, which makes them ideal for cooking for larger groups. They also tend to be more efficient, using less fuel than pellet grills. Additionally, vertical pellet smokers are designed specifically for smoking, so they often offer more precise temperature control and other features that are tailored to smoking.
Is the WiFi feature on vertical pellet smokers worth the investment?
The WiFi feature on vertical pellet smokers can be a useful tool for monitoring your smoker remotely and adjusting the temperature as needed. However, it is not essential, and many users find that they can achieve great results without it. Whether or not the WiFi feature is worth the investment depends on your personal preferences and needs.
Should I season my vertical pellet smoker before use?
Yes, it is a good idea to season your vertical pellet smoker before using it for the first time. This will help to remove any manufacturing residues and prepare the smoker for optimal performance. To season your smoker, simply coat the interior with a thin layer of vegetable oil and heat it to 250°F for two hours.