There are hundreds of top propane smokers on the market but the Dyna-Glo DGW1904BDP-D is clearly my top pick. Why is it? Well, with 1904 square inches of cooking space, it’s as large as a barn door. Yet, it’s got a 20,000 BTU total burning power, which makes it perhaps the most powerful of propane smokers.
As an outdoor cooking enthusiast who loves the taste of smoky meats, I know the importance of finding the perfect propane smoker. That’s why I’m here today to share my experience and knowledge on the best propane smokers In the market.
In this article, I’ll review the Dyna-Glo DGW1904BDP-D and six other top propane smokers that I found pretty amazing. I’ll also provide a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a propane smoker. Let’s get started.
My Top Pick
The Dyna-Glo DGW1904BDP-D is my overall best propane gas smoker of all the models on the market. This massive smoker is simply in a class of its own when it comes to its cooking surface.
One look is enough to make you appreciate the giant size of this gas smoker.
The Dyna-Glo DGW1904BDP-D offers no less than 1904 square inches of cooking surface, which is far more than most models. It provides ample space to smoke different cuts of meat simultaneously.
The 20,000 BTU output with two cast iron burners is powerful and consistent, providing excellent heat distribution throughout the cooking space. The six chrome cooking grids are adjustable and provide versatility in cooking. The built-in hooks and rib racks make it convenient to hang food, while the electronic ignition system makes starting up the vertical liquid propane gas smoker a breeze.
I was also impressed with the robust and durable construction of the propane smoker. It has a strong, heavy-duty steel body that can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for outdoor cooking.
The temperature gauge with “smoke zone” is another feature that I found useful, as it provides precise temperature control for optimal cooking. The two-door design is convenient for accessing the interior, and the wood chips tray and enameled steel water bowl provide smoke and moisture control. This allows you to add water or wood chips easily without opening the main door and letting the smoke escape.
However, its large size slightly complicates smoking on windy days or when it’s cold, as is often the case from November through February. Large smokers like the Dyna Glo are affected by wind because they are typically open at the bottom and sides. This creates a large surface area that is exposed to wind. This makes it more difficult to control the temperature inside the smoker as wind can blow out the flames or disrupt the airflow, causing fluctuations in the temperature.
Nonetheless, the Dyna Glo grill is solid and durable. So the device should not give up the ghost after its first season of use.
In addition, its deep black “look” blends well with all environments.
In short, I recommend it to anyone who wants to enjoy maximum cooking space and a good value-for-money appliance.
Overall, I highly recommend the Dyna-Glo DGW1904BDP-D to anyone looking for a large, high-quality propane smoker. No pork shoulder or beef brisket, regardless of size, can resist it.
The sober and elegant finish is a nice touch, and the 1-year limited warranty gives peace of mind. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting out, this smoker is a great choice for all your outdoor cooking needs.
Runner-up
This propane smoker is sort of the little brother of the Dyna-Glo DGW1904BDP-D featured above.
Smaller in size, it is an attractive alternative if you want a less bulky device or if your budget is more limited.
Once again, Dyna-Glo is not wrong with this compact-size vertical smoker, which offers exciting performances while being relatively affordable. It’s around $100 cheaper than the Dyna-Glo DGW1904BDP-D.
Offering 784 square inches, it has four height-adjustable cooking racks, accommodating up to 150 pounds of meat.
Like its grills, its steel construction is sturdy and durable. Its temperature indicator with a “smoke zone” lets you know if your smoking is optimal at a glance, which greatly simplifies your cooking.
It features a 2-door design that ensures smoke and heat retention when it’s time to add water or wood chunks.
However, it is slightly less effective at accommodating large pieces of meat. In addition, during cold weather, the internal temperature can be more challenging to maintain, which requires more precautions and manipulations. But hey, these are not deal breakers, considering the price it’s sold for!
This Dyna Glo model is the best option for those who aren’t really willing to have a large smoker in the backyard. It’s a cheaper and smaller alternative to the Dyna-Glo DGW1904BDP-D. It’s a worthwhile investment that’ll enhance any outdoor kitchen without breaking the bank.
Best Affordable and Efficient Smoker
The Cuisinart COS-244 vertical smoker may not be the most striking of propane smokers, but it turns out to be very efficient for an affordable device.
This Cuisinart COS 244 vertical gas smoker offers a large cooking capacity thanks to 4 stainless steel grids providing a total surface of 784 square inches.
These grids can be rearranged to your liking so they can smoke large and small pieces of meat, without hassle.
Its airtight design retains heat and smokes well inside its smoke vault.
The smoker is equipped with a single control knob to adjust the temperature, once the propane tank is open. Just watch the temperature gauge while increasing or decreasing the power of the burner.
So, it requires more handling than the Dyna Glo models, for example.
Moreover, a rear ventilation grille is very practical for managing smoke and heat.
Two separate doors facilitate the addition of wood chips, which is done without the smoke and heat escaping from the smoke vault.
Its design is simple but quite attractive, thanks to a black surface which makes it chic.
It can blend with exterior fittings of all kinds without any problem.
Covered by a 3-year warranty, the Cuisinart COS-244 vertical smoker is, overall, a solid choice for enjoying a good LP gas smoker without breaking the bank.
The Cuisinart COS 244 vertical smoker surprised me enormously, both in terms of its general quality and ease of use. It’s definitely worth a look.
Best Looking Vertical LP Gas Smoker
You only have to look at the Pit Boss 3-Series Red Rock once to realize how good it looks.
Its red door and its performance definitely make it stand out and earn it a place in this propane smoker review.
Unlike some vertical LP gas smoker models, the Pit Boss 3-Series Red Rock does not have a simple, classic design.
Indeed, it stands out for its retro appearance, and as the expression indicates, it is as beautiful as a fire truck.
Its glass door allows you to observe the food during cooking. Its three porcelain enamel grids offer a total surface area of 800 square inches.
A separate wood chip tray allows you to add smoking wood without having to open the door for anything, an undeniable advantage for optimal cooking.
Moreover, these pieces of wood are heated by a powerful BTU burner. Additionally, the smoking chamber is heated by another stainless steel burner producing 10,000 BTU, which allows the device to cook at temperatures oscillating between 100 F and 350 F.
It can smoke but also roast or grill at your convenience.
Quite compact, the Pit Boss 3-Series Red Rock is also equipped with rear wheels and a handle to move it around without hassle.
Its main disadvantage is its limited cooking space, which is not that bad.
I recommend this smoker to those who want to add a more “funky” touch to their backyard while enjoying the quality construction from Pit Boss. Its price is also reasonable, considering its quality.
Easiest Gas Smoker to Use
The Camp Chef SMV24SB has a design that resembles a safe. So it will be an eye-catcher anywhere it’s placed outdoors. However, that’s not its biggest selling point.
I found the Camp Chef to be quite easy to use and ideal for beginners looking to start their smoking journey with an inexpensive product.
It’s not too hard to assemble, thanks to the provided instructions. You can get it done in about 45 minutes. I was also able to easily arrange the food, thanks to adjustable grid.
In addition, the porcelain tray is quite easy to clean and the single button for instant ignition and heat adjustment, enhances your experience significantly.
Plus, this incredible appearance is accompanied by an equally impressive performance.
This model offers an impressive 903 square inches of cooking space, compared to 630 square inches for the 18-inch Camp Chef SMV18SB version. So, it can smoke everything from large rib racks to small pieces of food like fish or sausage.
Two adjustable grids make this possible. There’s also a grid specially designed for making jerky; a very practical addition.
The ultra-robust construction makes it durable.
Although its door seems relatively thin, the SMV24SB is quite airtight. Three ventilation hatches, one on the bottom of the device and two on the sides, allows you to adjust the flow of smoke for flavors that correspond perfectly to your preferences.
This aspect is appreciable, given its single-door design, which ensures that the smoke can escape when it comes time to add wood chips or water to the smoke vault.
The Camp Chef SMV24S is a versatile and impressive smoker that can compete with all types of propane gas smokers. Although it’s slightly more expensive than the average propane smoker, I highly recommend it, especially if you want to add a touch of finesse to your backyard.
Best Value for Money
The Masterbuilt smoker has practically everything to please experienced pitmasters and curious beginners who want to learn about smoking.
It’s equipped with an efficient temperature management system, which responds to the thermostat to maintain the heat inside the smoking chamber at the desired level. It only requires a few manipulations to start up.
The temperature can be adjusted using the dedicated button and an integrated thermometer manages the flow of gas sent to the burner.
You can sit back and relax as your food cooks, while admiring or checking your pieces of meat through the window integrated into its door.
The smoker has a total cooking surface of 792 square inches, which means it’s not too big or too small.
Four good-quality chrome cooking grids cover these cooking surfaces.
Its double-walled design ensures excellent heat retention during prolonged cooking. Its two doors, the big one – which is the main door – and another one to add wood chips, allow you to manage the smoke well without exposing the entire chamber to the heat and outside air.
Constructed of steel, the Masterbuilt MPS 340G is sturdy and durable.
Its value for money is, in my opinion, the best on the market at the moment.
This vertical LP gas smoker is designed to make smoking management easier. This is the appliance of choice for anyone who wants to smoke their favorite cuts of meat without hassle, regardless of their experience behind a grill. Although its design is quite simple, it is a nice addition to any outdoor kitchen.
Best High-end Gas Smoker
The Broil King 923617 is a high-quality smoker, which particularly stands out from the others. First, it has an adjustable Roto-Draft shock system that helps to minimize the impact of wind on the smoker’s temperature. This system helps to create a consistent cooking environment, even on windy days.
The smoker also has a mounted Accu-Temp thermometer that provides accurate temperature readings, allowing you to monitor the internal temperature of the smoker with ease. This feature helps to ensure that your food is cooked to perfection, every time.
Made with quality materials, it’s made to last, going through the years and aging by your side.
Its 770-square inch cooking surface spread out on its four quality stainless steel grids. This allows you to prepare large and small dishes.
In addition, hooks inside the smoking chamber make it easy to hang sausages, for example.
Its stainless steel burner offers a power of 15,000 BTUs while being durable.
The aspect of this device that impressed me the most is, without a doubt, its chip tray. This is large enough to accommodate charcoal.
So, it can be considered a hybrid smoker, fueled by propane or coal.
This smoker allows you to smoke so much food at the same time. With this smoker, it’s easy to feed a large group of people without too much work.
Its double-walled chamber is reinforced by a silicone gasket and a door latch system, ensuring exceptional heat and smoke retention.
The Broil King 923617 is equipped with an intuitive control panel and an electronic ignition system. These features make it easy to use.
The Broil King 923617 is an exceptional gas smoker whose performance is likely to impress purists and occasional users alike.
The smoker isn’t the most affordable. However, features like the Roto-Draft shock system and the Accu-Temp thermometer make it a worthy investment. Plus, you should remember that it’s a hybrid smoker that also allows charcoal use.
It would have been interesting for the manufacturer to add a window to its door, allowing better smoke monitoring. Still, I highly recommend it to anyone who wants the crème de la crème of gas smokers in their backyard.
Propane smokers are an essential tool for outdoor cooking enthusiasts looking to add a smoke flavor to their meats and other dishes.
With a wide variety of models available in the market, it can be challenging to find the best gas smoker that meets your needs. In this buying guide, we will go through some important things to consider when purchasing a propane smoker to ensure that you make an informed decision.
Propane smokers are outdoor cooking appliances that allow you to smoke meat, poultry, fish, and vegetables using propane gas as the fuel source.
Note that propane smokers are much different from gas grills. Gas grills look more like your freestanding gas cooker at home. However, they can produce higher cooking temperatures because, apparently, the purpose is to use them to “directly” grill food. So the BBQ is often closer to the heat source.
Propane smokers are vertical gas smokers working by heating gas from a propane tank to produce smoke and then circulating it around the food inside the smoker.
One of the things I love about these portable propane smokers is how convenient they are to use. Unlike traditional smokers, that require a lot of effort to start and maintain, propane smokers are simple to operate and are always ready to go. All you have to do is turn a dial, and you’re ready to start smoking.
Another great thing about propane smokers is the control they give you over the cooking process. You can easily adjust the temperature and smoke levels to achieve the perfect flavor and texture for your food. Whether you’re looking to slow-cook a brisket for hours or smoke some salmon for a quick and easy meal, a propane smoker has got you covered.
So, if you want to take outdoor cooking to the next level, I recommend trying out a propane smoker. It’s sure to become your new favorite cooking appliance in your outdoor space.
Next up, I’ll cover all the essential factors you need to consider when choosing the best liquid propane gas smoker. From size and capacity to fuel efficiency, temperature control, and more.
When choosing a propane smoker, size and capacity are two of the most critical factors. First, think about how much food you want to smoke at once. If you’re smoking for a family of four to six, a smaller smoker with a capacity of around 500 to 700 square inches will be sufficient.
However, if you’re smoking for a larger group, look for a smoker with a capacity of 700 to maybe a thousand square inches. Most of the smokers I reviewed have a size range from 770 to 1904 square inches.
However, you want to make sure that the smoker is big enough to smoke the amount of food that you need. It must also be compact enough to fit in your outdoor space. Additionally, measure the space where you store your smoker to ensure it fits.
Another critical aspect of size and capacity is the number of racks inside the smoker. If you’re smoking large cuts of meat, you’ll want a smoker with at least four racks to accommodate your food. However, if you’re smoking smaller items like fish or vegetables, two racks will be enough.
Ultimately, you shouldn’t skimp on size or capacity – you’ll regret it when you can’t smoke enough food to feed everyone.
A high-quality propane smoker should be made of durable materials like heavy-duty steel, cast iron, or porcelain-coated steel. The smoker’s walls should be thick, preferably double-walled. It should provide even heat distribution and maintain a consistent temperature.
When it comes to construction, look for welded seams and tight-fitting lids, which prevent heat and smoke from escaping. A propane smoker with a locking lid and tight-fitting doors will keep heat in, which is essential for creating a great-tasting barbecue.
Ultimately, a propane smoker with a well-constructed and durable body, ample cooking space, and adjustable features will ensure that your barbecue is cooked to perfection every time. Investing in a propane smoker with suitable materials and construction quality is worth every penny, ensuring you enjoy years of great-tasting barbecue.
Propane smokers use propane gas as their fuel source, and you want to ensure that the smoker is fuel-efficient and uses the least amount of propane possible.
Regarding fuel sources, you may also want to choose hybrid smokers that have an electric smoker or allow charcoal use on the side. A good example is the Broil King 923617. However, be ready to pay more.
Look for smokers with adjustable flame controls and multiple dampers that can be used to control the temperature and smoke distribution.
Temperature control refers to the ability to set and maintain the desired cooking temperature, while range refers to the minimum and maximum temperature the smoker can reach.
A good propane smoker should have a temperature range of around 100 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 12,000 to 20,000 total BTU.
A digital control panel with a temperature display is also an important feature. This helps you easily monitor and adjust the temperature while cooking.
Regarding temperature control, look for a propane smoker with a well-insulated body and tight-fitting lid. This helps prevent heat loss and keeps the temperature consistent throughout the cooking process. Some models even come with built-in thermometers and temperature gauges, which accurately record the smoker’s internal temperature.
Smoke control refers to the ability to regulate the amount of smoke in the smoking chamber, and distribution refers to how evenly the smoke is distributed throughout the chamber.
So, how do you ensure good smoke control and distribution in a propane smoker? The first thing to look for is the number of air vents.
The more vents, the more control you have over the chamber’s smoke. Secondly, you must ensure that the vents are positioned correctly to allow for even smoke distribution. Ideally, you want at least two vents on either side of the chamber to ensure even smoke flow.
Finally, check for the presence of a smoke diffuser. This is a metal plate that sits between the firebox and the smoking chamber and helps to distribute the smoke evenly.
Trust me, nobody wants to spend hours scrubbing and cleaning their smoker after each use. That’s why it’s essential to look for features that make cleaning and maintenance a breeze.
For instance, look for models with removable drip pans and ash catchers. These features will save you time and effort cleaning up the mess after you’re done cooking. Additionally, check for models with porcelain-coated grates. These grates are non-stick, which makes cleaning up grease and food residue much easier.
Another important factor to consider is the material of the smoker. Stainless steel is a great option as it is durable, easy to clean, and will not rust. In comparison, aluminum or other metal materials are prone to rust and can become damaged over time.
Not only do you want a smoker that’s easy to transport but also lightweight and compact, so you can take it on camping trips, tailgating events, or any outdoor adventure.
The Dyna-Glo DGY784BDP is an excellent choice for those who want a portable smoker. It weighs only 54 pounds, making it easy to move from place to place. On the other hand, the Pit Boss 3-Series Red Rock is a heavier option, weighing in at 97 pounds, making it more suitable for those who intend to keep their smoker in one place.
Another important factor is the design of the smoker. The Camp Chef SMV24SB has a compact design and a smaller cooking area, making it perfect for those short on space. The Masterbuilt MPS 340G ThermoTemp has a compact design and a large cooking area, making it ideal for those who want a portable smoker but still want plenty of space to cook.
When it comes to additional features, propane smokers can really vary. Some have built-in thermometers, while others don’t. This is an essential feature if you’re new to smoking, as it can help you monitor the internal temperature of your food.
Some smokers come with multiple cooking grates, which can be great if you’re smoking large cuts of meat and want to maximize the cooking surface.
Another useful feature is storage options, like shelves or hooks, which can come in handy for holding cooking utensils or hanging meat. This can help keep your cooking utensils and accessories organized and within reach. Remember, the more advanced features a smoker has, the more control you will have over your cooking, and the better your food will turn out.
Look for a smoker that provides good value for money and is within your budget. Thankfully, propane smokers are available from as low as $230 up to the high-end 4-digit models.
Overall, I highly recommend the Dyna-Glo DGW1904BDP-D due to its fair price, large size, and high burning power. If you want something with a scaled-down size and price, the Dyna-Glo DGY784BDP is the worthy runner-up. The Cuisinart COS-244 is also one of the best options for an outstanding smoking experience on a smoker that is not priced out of reach.
This buying guide is designed to help you consider all the essential features you need when purchasing a propane smoker. Make sure you consider the size, material, construction quality, fuel efficiency, and temperature control. Additional features such as a built-in thermometer, multiple cooking grates, and portability can also be considered based on your needs and budget.
