Best Propane Smoker

A smoker is one of the most essential pieces of barbecue equipment you should have when hosting a party. It’s not just great for slow-cooking meat, but it also produces aromatic smoke that adds to the whole barbecue experience. Let’s check the Best Propane Smoker on the market today.

The propane smoker is an electronic-powered device that works on the principles of heat, smoke, and time for food preparation. The heating elements are powered by propane tanks, which ensure uniform cooking of meat cuts.

The smoker comes with a firebox or electric heating unit. The heat source is used to heat up the wood chips, which in turn produce aromatic smoke. This smoky vapour is used to infuse a distinct flavour and aroma to the meat, making it more appetizing.

Propane is the best portable fuel source for smokers since it’s easy to use and convenient. It also allows you to control the heat by simply adjusting the flow of gas.

There are different types of propane smokers available in the market according to their materials of construction, size, and cooking capacity.

When selecting your best propane smoker, there are some considerations to take into account so you get the most outstanding product that will suit your needs.

In this post, I’ll go over the features of some of the popular models on the market, along with their pros and cons. I’ll also provide you with a buying guideline and FAQs section to make your search for the best propane smoker easier. Let’s get started!

Best Propane Smoker Reviews

Masterbuilt MB20051316 Propane Smoker Review

If you’re looking for a smoker that can handle anything, look no further than the Masterbuilt MB20051316 Propane Smoker. 

It features four chrome-coated smoking racks, enough space to smoke chickens, turkeys, racks of ribs, pork butts – and pretty much anything else you can think of.

Plus, with its thermo-temperature control system, you’ll be able to dial in the perfect smoking temperature every time.

With a 15,750 BTU stainless steel burner, this smoker can get up to temperature quickly and evenly, ensuring that your food comes out perfectly smoked every time. 

The included temperature sensor also helps to achieve consistent results, while the safety valve shuts off the burner automatically if things get too hot. And with a tank fuel level gauge, you’ll always know when it’s time to refill.

Camp Chef Smoke Vault Propane Smoker Review

You don’t have to be a pitmaster to get that smoky flavor in your food. Just fire up the Camp Chef Smoke Vault Propane Smoker and let the good times roll. 

This smoker has two adjustable smoking racks and a jerky smoking rack, so you can smoke whatever meat your heart desires. Plus, the 18,000 BTUs/Hr will ensure that your food smokes evenly and perfectly every time.

This heavy-gauge steel smoker has a wood chip tray for adding that smokey taste, as well as a removable porcelain base tray so you can easily clean up afterwards. 

With three adjustable damper valves, you can customize the heat, so your food smokes just the way you like it.

With a cooking range of 50 to 550 degrees, this smoker is capable of smoking anything from jerky to brisket. 

The thermometer on the door ensures that your food is cooked perfectly every time, and with the included cooking tips, recipes, and ideas booklet, you’ll be able to make some amazing smoked dishes. 

The snap-ignition system means that there’s no fussing with matches or lighters required – start it up and get smoking!

Dyna-Glo DGY784BDP Propane Smoker Review

The Dyna-Glo DGY784BDP Propane Smoker is the perfect smoker for anyone who wants to create delicious smoked meats and fish. 

This top-of-the-line smoker features 4 adjustable steel wire racks, making it perfect for cooking everything from ribs and brisket to sausage and chicken. 

With 15,000 BTU of cooking power, this smoker gets the job done quickly and efficiently. The cast iron burner ensures even heat distribution, so your food comes out perfectly every time. 

The electronic push-button ignition makes it easy to get started, and the large control dial allows you to easily adjust the heat for perfect results every time. Plus, the easy-to-use design means you’ll be smoking delicious meats in no time at all.

The porcelain-enamelled steel wood chip box with handles lets you easily add wood chips for smoking, while the double-door design ensures efficient heat circulation. 

The sliding air dampers let you control the smoke and temperature for perfect results every time.

With the temperature gauge, you can control the heat. The smoker is also CSA certified for safety. Plus, with a one-year limited warranty, you can be sure that your smoker will last for years to come.

Cuisinart COS-244 Propane Smoker Review

Smoking meat is an art form, and with the Cuisinart COS-244 Propane Smoker, you can create works of art that will tantalize your taste buds.

This smoker features 4 stainless steel racks, giving you plenty of space to cook up chicken breasts, stuffed mushrooms, or even a thick cut of meat. Best of all, the racks are dishwasher safe – so cleanup is a breeze!

This smoker has been engineered for total control overheat and smoke, so you can create the perfect smoked masterpiece every time. 

With a built-in thermometer, you’ll never have to worry about your food being overcooked or undercooked – you’ll have consistent results every time. The 20lb propane tank ensures that you’ll be able to cook for hours on end without having to refuel.

The twist-lock handle ensures a tight seal, while the porcelain-enamelled steel tray holds wood and water. Plus, it includes a 40-inch propane hose and regulator. 

You can use this smoker to create delicious smoked foods for your friends and family.

Masterbuilt’s Smoke Hollow PS40B Propane Smoker Review

No one can resist succulent, smoky flavors, and with the Smoke Hollow PS40B Propane Smoker, you can create them with ease! 

This smoker comes with four chrome-coated smoking racks, making it perfect for smoking chickens, pork butts, turkeys, ribs, and more. The 15,400 BTU stainless steel burner ensures even heat distribution and consistent smoking every time.

This smoker is outfitted with a push-button ignition for easy startup, plus adjustable legs that add height. There’s also an air damper for controlled smoke flow. 

Char-Broil Propane Smoker Review

This smoker is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy smoked meats and veggies without having to spend a fortune on equipment.

This smoker has a 595 square inch cooking surface, making plenty of room to cook up ribs, chicken and pork butts. The three chrome-plated adjustable cooking grates let you customize your smoking experience.

It’s made of heavy-duty steel, so it’s tough enough to stand up to frequent use, and the gas feature ensures that your food will cook evenly every time. Plus, the warming rack keeps your food warm until you’re ready to eat it.

This easy-to-use smoker features a convenient firebox drawer, temperature control, and porcelain wood chip and water pan. Moreover, the cooking chamber has its own temperature gauge, so you can always keep an eye on your food.

Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Propane Smoker Review

Do you love smoked meats but don’t have the time or space to invest in a full-sized smoker? Then Char-Broil has the perfect solution for you – the TRU-Infrared Propane Smoker! 

This ingenious product lets you smoke, roast and grill all in one, using a special roasting basket that fits perfectly inside. Plus, it’s easy to use; just light it up with propane and let the magic happen. 

The TRU-Infrared technology cooks food evenly and without drying it out, ensuring that your smoked meats come out moist and mouth-wateringly delicious. The large cooking area provides plenty of space to grill up a feast. 

With temperature control from 9,000 to 18,000 BTUs, you can smoke everything from ribs to salmon burgers.

With a side-mounted smoker box, you can easily add flavour to your food, and the removable grease tray makes cleanup a breeze. The smoker is portable, so you can take it wherever you go. 

This smoker has steel legs for increased stability, as well as a hose with regulator and two half shelves, making it simple to prepare a meal. 

The metal thermometer ensures that your food reaches the perfect temperature, while the two side-mounted carrying handles make it easy to transport the smoker. 

And when you’re done cooking, the included cover will keep your smoker in top condition.

Whether you’re cooking up a Thanksgiving feast or some ribs on the weekend, this smoker is sure to amaze your taste buds.

PIT BOSS 77435 3 Series Propane Smoker Review

The PIT BOSS 77435 3 Series Propane Smoker gives you the ability to cook multiple items at once with its three porcelain coated cooking grids. 

The 800 square inch cooking area ensures that you’ll have plenty of space to work, and the dual valve/dual burner system means that you’ll have consistent heat throughout your cook.

This smoker has a wood chip drawer, grease tray, and large high temp glass viewing window so you can keep an eye on your food while it smokes. 

The fully sealed high temp door seal ensures that your food will be cooked evenly and with consistent heat, while the push-button piezo ignition makes starting your smoker easy peasy.

This bad boy also features stainless-steel burners that provide up to 12,500 BTUs of heat. Whether you’re looking to smoke ribs, chicken, or brisket, this smoker has you covered. 

Masterbuilt 20051311 Propane Smoker Review

You don’t have to be a pitmaster to make amazing barbecue with the Masterbuilt 20051311 Propane Smoker. 

With four chrome smoking racks, 717 square inches of cooking space, and a stainless steel burner, this smoker has everything you need to get the job done right. 

The push-button ignition makes it easy to get started, and the type 1 regulator ensures a consistent flame.

This top-of-the-line smoker features a porcelain coated wood chip tray and water pan, so you can easily produce moist, delicious smoked meats and poultry. 

The locking door ensures that your foot stays securely in place, while the cool touch wire handle makes it easy to transport your smoker from one location to another. 

You’ll love the built-in temperature gauge that takes the guesswork out of smoking your favourite meats and vegetables.

Dyna-Glo DGW1904BDP-D Propane Smoker Review

Don’t be a hothead – cook your meats to perfection with the Dyna-Glo DGW1904BDP-D Propane Smoker. 

This smoker has 6 height-adjustable cooking grates and 1,904 square inches of cooking space, so you can smoke whatever you please; however you, please. 

With 20,000 Total BTUs of cooking power at your fingertips, this smoker is sure to heat up quickly and evenly for perfectly smoked meats every time.

The steel and powder-coated firebox ensures even heat distribution and prevents your food from burning, while the pre-installed door seals keep the heat and smoke inside. 

Additionally, the smoker comes with a rib rack and sausage hooks to help you prepare all of your favourite smoked meats.

The large capacity water bowl and wood chip box can handle all of your smoking needs, while the stainless temperature gauge with a smoke-zone indicator ensures precision cooking.

Masterbuilt MB20052318 Propane Smoker Review

The Masterbuilt MB20052318 Propane Smoker is the perfect way to add delicious smoked flavour to your food. 

With four chrome-coated smoking racks, a built-in temperature gauge, and a push-button ignition, this smoker makes it easy to create smoked meats, fish, vegetables, and more.

The smoker has a patented porcelain-coated flame disk bowl, which ensures even heat distribution and consistent smoking. 

The 15,400 BTU stainless-steel burner offers plenty of power to get your food smoked to perfection.

Pit Boss Grills 2 Series Propane Smoker Review

The Pit Boss Grills 2 Series Propane Smoker is one of the most advanced smokers on the market. 

It features four porcelain coated cooking grids and 884 sq. in. of cooking space, perfect for smoking ribs, brisket, chicken, or any other type of meat. 

The dual valve/dual burner ensures that your food cooks evenly and at a consistent temperature, while the stainless steel burners provide 13,500 BTUs of heat.

With this smoker, you can get temperatures between 100 and 350 degrees, allowing for precision smoking every time. The wood chip drawer and grease tray make cleanup a breeze. The push-button ignition makes getting started very easy.

This smoker is equipped with a large glass viewing window, so you can watch your food smoke to perfection without having to open the door and release all the heat. 

The fully sealed high-temp door seal also ensures that your food will stay juicy and delicious, while the stylish red semi-gloss finish adds a touch of sophistication to your backyard barbecue.

Features to Look for in the Best Propane Smoker

Propane smokers are gaining momentum among home chefs for their convenience and affordability. As you shop around, though, it can be tough to differentiate between the features of each propane smoker. This guide will walk you through some of the best features to look for when comparing different models, as well as a few features to avoid.

Durability and Quality Control

The propane smoker you buy must be durable and reliable. If a smoker does not have a good track record of durability, you will be facing issues with your propane smoker in no time. 

On the other hand, a smoker with high-quality control ensures that you will be getting a durable product. Quality control involves factors such as materials used in manufacturing, manufacturing tolerances, and final testing.

Cooking Capacity

Propane smoker cooking capacity is important because it directly affects the time it will take you to complete a cooking job. You’ll want a large cooking capacity for jobs such as smoking meat for your family reunion, but if you want to smoke a small amount of food, you can save on propane costs by opting for a smaller capacity model.

Temperature Control

Temperature is a key component in any smoker. If you can’t control the temperature, you cannot enjoy smoking foods to their fullest extent. To achieve this control, most propane smokers have adjustable temperature controls. You will want to check out the temperature range of any model before making a purchase.

Fire Safety

Fire safety is an important part of any correctly functioning propane smoker. If you are cooking below 110 degrees Fahrenheit, your fire source should not pose any threat to your propane tank or hose. However, if you are cooking at temperatures above 110 degrees Fahrenheit, fires become more likely to occur.

Ash Management Systems

For anyone who has owned a smoker for any significant amount of time, you know how unpleasant it is to clean out ashes after dismantling the unit. If you want cleaner jobs without all that hassle, look for a propane smoker with an effective ash management system.

Propane tank accessibility is important because you will be refilling it regularly. Make sure that any model you are considering purchasing allows easy access to the propane tank so that refuelling can be done quickly and easily.

Side Tables and Shelves

Propane smokers with side tables and shelves can help you get more use out of your unit. If the smoker has a shelf, you can put pans or other equipment that needs to be close to the heat source (such as basting sauce). Side tables give you extra room for prep work or condiments.

Ease of Assembly

The propane smoker you buy must be easy to assemble, disassemble, and store. Look for models that will snap together with minimal effort on your part. Models with removable components are more desirable than single-piece units because they take up less storage space whenever you clean or move them.

Ease of Cleaning

If you want a propane smoker that is easy to maintain, look for one with removable components and surfaces that can be cleaned or wiped down easily. Some models have parts that are dishwasher compatible, which makes the cleaning job even simpler.

Other Features to Consider

Propane smokers come with a variety of other features such as built-in thermometers, timers, and even remote controls. If these features do not sound like they would be beneficial to you, simply look for a model without them. However, if such features seem appealing, make sure that the propane smoker you choose has them. 

Warranty 

When you are investing in a propane smoker, the manufacturer must back up their product with a good warranty. Propane smokers with longer warranties have the confidence to stand behind their products and know that they will be around for a long time.

Online Review 

It is important to look for online reviews before making any propane smoker purchase. Make sure that you do your research and learn about the experiences of others with the models you are considering buying.

Price

The last thing you will want to consider is the price. There are propane smokers that cost only a fraction of the more luxurious models on the market today. Determine how much you can afford to spend and then look at different models according to their features and prices. 

Benefits of Propane Smoker

No more babysitting the grill

The propane smokers use a chip box that feeds wood chips to the heating element, thus making it easy for you since all you have to do is set the machine and wait. 

The smoker takes care of itself from this moment on, meaning that you can walk away from your cooking area without having to worry about overcooking or undercooking your food.

Tastes like real smoked food

Using a propane smoker ensures that you get the flavour and taste of real smoked meat because it uses a smokehouse to cook your meats, poultry, seafood, etc. 

This means that this type of cooking preserves the flavour much better compared to other conventional methods such as grilling or pan-frying. You will be able to enjoy the full-on flavour of smoked meat minus the pungent smell.

Temperature control is easier

In propane smokers, you will be able to adjust and control the temperature easily, which means that you can monitor your cooking process better without having to worry about burning your meats or drying them out.

You get to save on electricity

Propane smokers only need a small amount of propane to get the job done, thus saving you more money from your energy bill at home. It will also help lessen your carbon footprint if that is of any concern to you. Enjoy meat the right way without spending a fortune with a propane smoker.

Cook even in the toughest of weather conditions

There are propane smokers that can cook your meat regardless of bad weather, which makes them ideal for bringing on camping trips or backyard barbeques where you will be out in the open for most of the time. Forget about messy charcoal starters and charcoal mess while saving on energy with propane.

Easy and quick to use

Propane smokers are designed for convenience and ease of use, so you will not have a hard time setting it up or monitoring your cooking process. You can even set the timer on most propane smokers so that you do not have to worry about overcooking or undercooking your meal.

More flavorful and juicier end product

Cooking your meat in a propane smoker ensures that the meat will come out more flavorful, juicy, tender, and moist compared to other conventional cooking methods because it uses indirect heat, which keeps the moisture locked inside the smoker, thus preventing it from evaporating into thin air. You can even cut through the meat with just a fork because of how tender it has become.

You can cook large-sized foods

Most propane smokers are designed to accommodate huge amounts of food which makes them ideal for barbeques and pool parties where you will be cooking most of the time. This way, you do not have to worry about cooking small batches of meat all the time.

Affordable investment for your future

Propane smokers are made to last over the years, so you do not have to worry about replacing them anytime soon, which makes it an ideal choice for people who want a better alternative compared to charcoal grills. It is also cheaper compared to other types of smoker grills, so it does not hurt your pocket to invest in a propane one.

Propane smokers are easy to maintain

Most propane smokers do not have complicated mechanisms or components since they were manufactured for ease of use and convenience, which makes them easily repairable when needed. 

You can even clean them easily because there are fewer parts compared to other types of smoker grills.

Disadvantages of Propane Smoker

Propane is not a clean-burning fuel

Although propane burns cleaner compared to other types of fossil fuels, it still releases some greenhouse gas into the environment. However, propane smokers produce less emissions compared to other types of grills or cooking methods.

Propane can be expensive in some areas

If you are using a small container of propane or if you are not cooking meat regularly, the refilling cost might be more expensive compared to another type of fuel. 

It is cheaper in the long run because propane smokers are made to last for years, so you do not have to shell out more money for another propane grill after a few months of using the first one.

You still have to buy wood chips or chunks

Although propane smokers can heat up to as much as 700 degrees, you still have to buy wood chips or chunks to use as fuel. There are no wood chips included in the propane smoker.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I clean my propane smoker?

A: A quick clean should be enough before cooking. Just make sure the grills are still hot and scrape away excess food or debris. You can use a grill stone or scraper to scrape it off, but be careful not to damage the grills.

Q: How long does it take to preheat a propane smoker?

A: Depending on how large it is, the time needed to preheat can be anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour. It’s usually less than an hour because larger smokers can retain heat better.

Q: What is the best propane smoker for cold smoking?

A: If you want to do cold smoking, it will be difficult with a propane smoker. However, some smokers do possess more than one type of burner, so if your model has one you can remove or adjust for cold smoking, it should work.

Q: Can I cook low and slow in a propane smoker?

A: With propane smokers, it’s not possible to do low and slow cooking. This is because you can’t set the temperature as low as you can in a charcoal or wood smoker. You can use a propane smoker for all types of smoking, though. 

Q: Can I use a propane smoker for smoking jerky?

A: You can, but you’ll have to keep an eye on it since it will cook more quickly than in other smokers.

Q: How much does a propane smoker cost?

A: Propane smokers can be as cheap as $100 for a small, basic model up to thousands of dollars for those capable of smoking large amounts of food at once.

Q: How many racks does a propane smoker usually have?

A: Racks will vary depending on the size of the smoker. Generally, you’ll find more racks as the size of the smoker increases. Most smokers come with at least two or three racks and some as many as six or seven. 

Q: Can I smoke other meats besides pork and beef in a propane smoker?

A: You can, but you might not get the same delicious, smoky flavour. It’s best to stick with either pork or beef because these meats can absorb more smoke than other types of meat.

Q: What is the best propane smoker for home use?

A: If you prefer to do smaller amounts of smoking, it would be best to choose a smaller smoker. If you plan on smoking larger amounts of food at once, go with a bigger model.

Q: How do I determine my propane smoker’s BTU rating?

A: There are several factors to take into account when determining a smoker’s BTU rating. The type of fuel, the size, and the model will all have an effect on the BTUs that it emits.

Q: How long can I store my propane smoker?

A: If your smoker is not used regularly, it’s best to store it in a dry, cool place. Some smokers have features that allow them to be stored vertically or horizontally. If you don’t have space to store it vertically or horizontally, you can also place your smoker over a sturdy base on its side.

Q: What is the best propane smoker for beginners?

A: Propane smokers are generally very easy to use, so they’re good for beginners. If you’re worried about upgrading to a more complicated smoker later, you can choose a fairly simple model and learn as you go.

Conclusion

Propane smokers provide power and convenience and can be used to smoke any type of food, including beef, chicken, pork, etc. Each smoker is slightly different, with some being more difficult to use than others. So just keep in mind what you’re looking for when choosing between propane smokers. You can also check our article on the Best Propane Smoker for Beginners.

Some people feel that propane smokers don’t produce as smoky flavor as charcoal or wood smokers, even though you can still get a good smoky flavor. However, it’s the convenience and ease of use that make propane smokers attractive to many people. There are hundreds of models available, so it may be best to try a few before making your final decision. 

I hope you liked our article on Best Propane Smoker.

Good luck with your purchase!