Best Small Propane Smoker

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It’s summer, and that means it’s time to get out the grill. But, if you need something a little less powerful for some smaller jobs, a propane smoker is the perfect solution. They’re versatile and easy to use, with a wide variety of foods ranging from fish to jerky. And, they’re usually cheaper than their larger cousins. Let’s check the Best Small Propane Smoker on the market today.

These propane smokers are often used for hunting or fishing because it’s easier to get away and use one than a large propane grill or smoker. 

It’s also a great solution for apartment or condo dwellers that want to cook outdoors or anyone else who just doesn’t have the room for a larger unit.

They’re also versatile enough to be used outside when it’s nice or even in your garage if space is tight.

In this article, we’ll take a look at five small propane smokers. We’ve chosen them because they offer the best combination of features, size and quality for your money.

Best Small Propane Smoker Reviews

Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Propane Smoker Review

Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Propane Smoker

The Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Propane Smoker is the perfect way to infuse your food with a delicious smoky flavour. It is specially designed for all your smoking needs. 

You can smoke, roast, and grill all in one – perfect for juicy turkey, ribs, or roast. The smoker also comes with a roasting basket so you can cook multiple cuts of meat at once. 

This smoker uses TRU-Infrared technology, which eliminates flare-ups and results in perfectly cooked food every time. With a cooking area of 180 square inches, you can easily make enough food for a small crowd.

With temperature control from 9,000 to 18,000 BTUs, this smoker gives you the flexibility to smoke whatever you like; however, you like. 

The side-mounted smoker box ensures that your food will taste delicious every time.

The grease tray is removable so you can easily clean it up, and the steel legs keep it off the ground and stable. The cooking chamber is spacious, so you can smoke plenty of food at once. Plus, the hose with a regulator makes it easy to get started.

With two half shelves and a metal thermometer, it’s easy to get the perfect smoke every time. And because it includes a cover, your smoker is always protected when not in use.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, this smoker has got you covered.

Pros

  • Portable
  • Easy to clean
  • Easy to operate
  • Metal thermometer
  • Includes cover

Cons

  • Many users have experienced temperature control issues

Camp Chef Smoke Vault Propane Smoker Review

Camp Chef Smoke Vault Propane Smoker

The Camp Chef Smoke Vault Small Propane Smoker is the perfect smoker for anyone who loves to barbecue. 

With two adjustable smoking racks, one jerky smoking rack, and an impressive 18,000 BTUs/Hr, this smoker guarantees a delicious smoky flavour every time.

The protected burner drum ensures maximum heat control so you can customize your smoking experience to perfection.

The heavy-gauge steel smoker features a wood chip tray to help you get that perfect smoky flavour and a removable porcelain base tray for easy cleanup. 

Three adjustable damper valves let you customize your smoking experience.

It also features an easy-to-read door thermometer so you can always keep track of the temperature, and it also has a convenient snap-ignition system, so you don’t have to worry about using matches. 

Plus, it comes with cooking tips, ideas, and recipes to help get you started.

Pros

  • Maximum heat control
  • Easy to clean
  • Adjustable damper valves
  • Door thermometer
  • Easy to start

Cons

  • The door of the smoker may not seal properly

Masterbuilt MB20050116 Propane Smoker Review

Masterbuilt MB20050116 Propane Smoker

The Masterbuilt MB20050116 Propane Smoker is the perfect smoker for anyone who wants an easy and convenient smoking experience. 

The chrome-coated racks provide even heat distribution and help keep your food from sticking, while the built-in temperature gauge ensures that your food is cooked perfectly every time.

The push-button ignition lights the burner quickly and easily, while the 5,000 BTU stainless steel burner provides plenty of heat for your smoked meats. 

The regulator knob also adjusts the flame to create your desired temperature – making it easy to get that perfect smoked flavour each time.

The Masterbuilt MB20050116 is a perfect smoker for those who want the convenience of a small, portable smoker. The compact design and folding legs make it easy to transport and store, while it’s perfect for smoking at home or on the go.

Pros

  • Even heat distribution
  • built-in temperature gauge
  • Easy to start
  • Portable

Cons

  • The smoker’s high setting is ineffective

Char-Broil Propane Smoker Review

Char-Broil Propane Smoker

Looking for a smoker that is both durable and easy to use? Look no further than the Char-Broil Propane Smoker. 

This smoker has a 595 sq. inch. of cooking surface and three chrome-plated adjustable cooking grates, allowing you to prepare a meal for the entire family.

Plus, the smoker is easy to assemble and operate, making it perfect for novices and experts alike. 

The smoker has a warming rack, easy-access firebox drawer, and a burner with temperature control to help you create perfectly smoked foods every time. 

The cooking chamber also has a separate temperature gauge so that you can monitor your food’s progress closely. In addition, the porcelain wood chip tray and water pan give your food an added layer of taste.

Made with heavy-duty steel, this smoker is built to last. The rust-resistant finish ensures years of smoking pleasure. And thanks to the gas feature, you can count on consistent heat each time you use it.

Pros

  • Warming rack
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Easy to operate
  • Easy to maintain

Cons

  • The water pan is too small

PIT BOSS 77435, 3 Series Propane Smoker Review

PIT BOSS 77435, 3 Series Propane Smoker

When it comes to smoking meat, the Pit Boss 77435 really knows its stuff. This 3 Series smoker is perfect for anyone who loves low and slow smoked meats, with temperatures as low as 100°F and as high as 350°F.

With three porcelain coated cooking grids and a dual valve/dual burner system, this smoker is simple to operate and produces great results all the time.

With both valves controlled by a single knob, this smoker is easy to use and lets you customize your temperature to perfection. The stainless-steel burners provide 12,500 BTUs of heat, ensuring that your food smokes evenly and at the right temperature.

The wood chip drawer and grease tray make it easy to keep your smoker clean, while the high temp glass viewing window lets you check on your food without having to open the door. 

The fully sealed high temp door seal keeps heat and smoke inside, while the piezo ignition with a push-button makes it simple to start your grill.

Plus, the sleek red finish is sure to complement any backyard patio. So fire up the Pit Boss 77435 and get ready for some smoky deliciousness!

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Temperature up to 350 deg
  • Smokes food evenly
  • Easy to clean
  • Easy to start

Cons

  • The temperature control knob of the smoker may be a bit hard to use

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is a small propane smoker?

A: A small propane smoker is any unit that holds less than 100 pounds of food; this includes pellet grills as well as other types. Most models will hold anywhere from 12 burgers to 30 burgers at a time. The small ones are great for the average family to get together or offsite catering service.

Q: Can a small propane smoker do a turkey or a large brisket?

A: No! The small propane smoker is just a small smoker. It will do small things very well, but you cannot smoke a whole turkey in this thing. You can do a small turkey or a large chicken. The same goes for briskets and pork shoulders: they need to be done in a large smoker (200 pounds and up).

Q: Is there any guidance on using a small propane smoker?

A: Yes! First, you should always use a water pan to keep the meat moist. And never open the lid more than you have to; this lets out all of your heat and smoke. Try to keep the flame under control; some propane grills don’t have a good regulator, and they will run very hot. A red-hot grill will burn your food.

Q: Are there any benefits to a small propane smoker as opposed to a large one?

A: Yes, you can move them around with ease. Just pick the unit up with one hand and wheel it around where you need to go. They also store very easily and can be squeezed into a corner. They usually start up faster than large units; because the burner is smaller, it takes less time to heat up.

Q: Are there any downsides to small propane smokers?

A: Yes, they can be difficult to clean. You’ll need to remove the racks from the unit and scrub them down. This can be a big pain, especially when you have a lot of racks to do at once. The small units are great for convenience but not the greatest for cleaning.

Q: What is the best small propane smoker?

A: The best small propane smoker is really a matter of opinion. You should always go for the best deal that you can find. You should also look at customer reviews to get an idea of how well your unit might work. And you should look at the smoker itself: if it is well built and matches your needs, then you might want to go ahead and get it.

Q: Is a small propane smoker right for me?

A: It is dependent on a number of factors. You should first consider how much you’re going to smoke. If you are only smoking a couple of times a year, then the answer is probably no. 

But if you are going to be smoking more often, then you might want to get one of the smaller options. You should also think about how much area you have for a smoker. 

If you have a lot of space, go with a large smoker. The small propane smoker may be the ideal solution for you if you just have a small amount of space indoors or outdoors.

Q: What do the many pieces of a propane smoker necessarily involve?

A: A propane smoker is made up of three primary components.

1. The body is the outside part that holds everything together and protects the internals. Most units have handles on top because they are so heavy. The body is almost always made out of metal or stainless steel.

2. The internals is the inside parts that hold the wood chips, water pan, racks and drip tray etc… These parts can be made out of anything, but it’s best if they are metal or at least very sturdy duty plastic. You don’t want any leftover smells coming from the inside of your smoker.

3. The grill is where you put all your meat to cook it. This part usually has grates that are removable so you can clean them easily and also for putting meat in and removing it without touching everything else (handy). The grill is what gives the meat that smoked taste and also keeps it moist as it cooks.

Q: Is a small propane smoker safe to use?

A: Yes, as long as you stick to the instructions and keep a close check on it. Always keep the lid closed and do not leave a smoker unattended constantly. Make sure to put it away from dry areas since propane smokers can cause fires if they overheat or ignite something near them. Small children & pets should also be kept away from the smoker.

Conclusion

I hope that I have given you enough information to make your purchase. Remember, the small propane smoker is not an all-purpose machine but a unit that is meant to be a quick and easy solution for smaller needs. 

So, be sure you understand all the features of any smoker before making your purchase. Also, remember to buy a smoker cover so you can protect your investment. You can also check our article on the Best Vertical Propane Smoker.

Now you know all there is to know about small propane smokers. I hope you liked our article on Best Small Propane Smoker.

Good luck and happy smoking!

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