Best Vertical Pellet Smokers for Perfectly Smoked Meat

Pellet smokers have quickly become a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts due to their convenience, versatility, and ability to produce mouth-watering, smoky flavors. With so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best vertical pellet smokers and what to look for when making a purchase.

Vertical pellet smokers are designed to maximize cooking space while taking up minimal floor space. They have a tall, narrow profile that allows for even heat distribution and easy access to the cooking chamber. These smokers are ideal for smoking large cuts of meat, such as brisket, pork shoulder, and ribs, as well as smaller items like vegetables and fish.

When shopping for a vertical pellet smoker, it’s essential to consider factors such as cooking capacity, temperature range, construction quality, and ease of use. A high-quality smoker should be made from durable materials that can withstand high temperatures and prolonged use. It should also have a user-friendly interface that allows you to adjust the temperature and cooking time with ease.

In this article, we’ve tested and reviewed the top vertical pellet smokers on the market to help you make an informed decision. Our team of experts has spent countless hours researching and testing these smokers to identify the ones that offer the best performance, durability, and value. So, whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a novice griller, we’ve got you covered.

Best Vertical Pellet Smokers

We’ve scoured the market to bring you the best vertical pellet smokers available. These smokers are perfect for those who want to enjoy the convenience of a pellet smoker in a compact, vertical design. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner, these smokers are sure to impress with their consistent heat and easy-to-use features. So without further ado, here are our top picks for the best vertical pellet smokers.

Pit Boss Grills PBV3G1 Vertical Smoker, Red Hammertone 684 sq inches

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use vertical pellet smoker that delivers delicious results, the Pit Boss Grills PBV3G1 is a solid choice.

Pros

• The dual valve/dual stainless steel burner system allows for precise temperature control and even heat distribution.
• With a temperature range of 100°F to 320°F and a 720 square inch cooking area, you can smoke a variety of meats and other foods to perfection.
• The external wood chip and ash removal system makes it easy to add wood chips and keep the smoker clean.

Cons

• At 63 pounds, this smoker is quite heavy and may be difficult to move around.
• The high temp door seal may wear out over time, requiring replacement.
• Some users have reported issues with the thermostat being off by a few degrees.

Overall, we were impressed with the Pit Boss Grills PBV3G1 Vertical Smoker. It was easy to assemble and use, and the large viewing window with professional heat indicator made it easy to monitor our food without opening the door and losing heat. While it may be a bit heavy and the high temp door seal may wear out over time, we feel that the pros outweigh the cons and would recommend this smoker to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use option.

EAST OAK 30-inch Electric Smoker

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use electric smoker that produces delicious smoked meat, the EAST OAK 30-inch Electric Smoker is worth considering.

Pros

• The side wood chip loader makes it easy to add wood chips without losing heat or smoke, making it perfect for beginners.
• The bottom heating tube provides even and consistent smoke, resulting in a better smoked flavor.
• With 725 sq. inches of cooking space and four removable racks, this smoker can accommodate a variety of meats for both small and large groups.

Cons

• The digital control panel can be confusing to use at first.
• Some users have reported that the smoker doesn’t reach high enough temperatures for certain types of meat.
• The smoker is relatively heavy and may be difficult to move around without assistance.

We were impressed with the EAST OAK 30-inch Electric Smoker’s ability to produce consistently delicious smoked meat. The side wood chip loader was a particularly useful feature, as it allowed us to add wood chips without losing heat or smoke. The smoker’s bottom heating tube also ensured that the smoke was distributed evenly, resulting in a better smoked flavor.

We appreciated the smoker’s large cooking space and four removable racks, which made it easy to smoke a variety of meats for both small and large groups. However, we did find that the digital control panel was a bit confusing to use at first, and some users may need to consult the manual to figure out how to use it.

Overall, we would recommend the EAST OAK 30-inch Electric Smoker to anyone looking for an easy-to-use electric smoker that produces consistently delicious smoked meat. However, if you’re looking to smoke certain types of meat that require high temperatures, you may want to consider a different smoker.

Camp Chef – XXL Pro Vertical Smoker

If you’re looking for a vertical pellet smoker with a big volume and a small footprint, the Camp Chef XXL Pro Vertical Smoker is a great option.

Pros

• The smoke box is a great feature that allows you to add wood chips without opening the main chamber.
• With four standard smoking racks, three jerky racks, and one hanging rack with 12 hooks, you can smoke a variety of meats at once.
• The Smoke Number Control allows you to easily adjust the amount of smoke to your liking.

Cons

• The smoker thermometer may not be accurate, so it’s recommended to use an external thermometer for more precise temperature readings.
• Some users have reported issues with the pellet hopper catching on fire, so it’s important to keep an eye on it while in use.
• The assembly process can be time-consuming and may require two people.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the Camp Chef XXL Pro Vertical Smoker and were impressed with its overall performance. The smoke box was a standout feature that allowed us to easily add wood chips without disrupting the cooking process. The multiple racks provided ample space to smoke a variety of meats, and the Smoke Number Control made it easy to adjust the smoke level to our liking.

However, we did notice that the smoker thermometer was not always accurate, so we used an external thermometer for more precise temperature readings. Additionally, we recommend keeping a close eye on the pellet hopper as some users have reported issues with it catching on fire.

Overall, if you’re in the market for a vertical pellet smoker with a large cooking capacity, the Camp Chef XXL Pro Vertical Smoker is definitely worth considering.

Pit Boss PB7000SP Wood Pellet Smoker, 7 Series Vertical, Black Black 7 Series Vertical Grill

If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile vertical pellet smoker, the Pit Boss Sportsman 7-Series Wood Pellet Vertical Smoker is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The all-natural hardwood pellet fuel delivers excellent flavor.
• With a temperature range of 150°F to 420°F, you can smoke, roast, bake, barbecue, and braise with ease.
• The 1,853 sq.in of cooking capacity and six adjustable cooking racks give you plenty of space to cook for a crowd.

Cons

• The heavy-gauge stainless steel construction makes this smoker heavy and difficult to move around.
• The large pellet view window can get dirty quickly and requires frequent cleaning.
• The price point may be too high for some budget-conscious buyers.

In our experience, the Pit Boss Sportsman 7-Series Wood Pellet Vertical Smoker is a high-quality and reliable smoker that can handle a variety of cooking tasks. The all-natural hardwood pellet fuel delivers excellent flavor, and the temperature range of 150°F to 420°F makes it easy to cook a wide range of dishes.

We were impressed with the 1,853 sq.in of cooking capacity and six adjustable cooking racks, which gave us plenty of space to cook for a crowd. The dial-in digital control board works hand-in-hand with Pit Boss meat probes so you can monitor meat doneness and adjust cooking temperatures without ever opening the smoker door.

However, the heavy-gauge stainless steel construction makes this smoker heavy and difficult to move around. The large pellet view window can get dirty quickly and requires frequent cleaning. Additionally, the price point may be too high for some budget-conscious buyers.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality vertical pellet smoker that can handle a variety of cooking tasks, the Pit Boss Sportsman 7-Series Wood Pellet Vertical Smoker is definitely worth considering.

Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker

If you’re looking for a versatile smoker that can handle all types of food, the Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker is an excellent choice. With a total cooking space of 1,890 square inches, this smoker can accommodate large cuts of meat, whole turkeys, and even vegetables.

Pros

• The offset design keeps direct heat away from the food, allowing for slow cooking and even distribution of heat and smoke.
• The six height-adjustable cooking grates can accommodate various sizes of food, giving you plenty of space to cook for a crowd.
• The built-in stainless steel thermometer and adjustable smoke stack flue make it easy to monitor and control the temperature and smoke level.

Cons

• The smoker is made of steel, which can rust if not properly maintained.
• Some users have reported difficulty in regulating the temperature, especially in windy conditions.
• The smoker is heavy and difficult to move, so it’s best to find a permanent spot for it.

In our experience, the Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker is a great investment for anyone who loves to smoke meat. Its large cooking space, versatile design, and built-in thermometer make it easy to use and produce delicious results. Just be sure to keep it clean and covered when not in use to prevent rusting.

Aakihi Door Latch Kit

If you’re looking for a replacement door latch for your Pit Boss Pro Series II 4-Series Wood Pellet Vertical Smoker, the Aakihi Door Latch Kit is worth considering.

Pros

• Easy to install
• Made of high-quality iron with rust-resistant steel
• Versatile and suitable for most vertical square smokers, doors, windows, cupboards, and drawers

Cons

• May not fit all models of Pit Boss vertical smokers
• May require modifications for proper fit on non-Pit Boss smokers
• Some users reported difficulty with the latch staying closed

We found the Aakihi Door Latch Kit to be a sturdy replacement for the original latch on our Pit Boss Pro Series 1077-Sq in Black Sand Pellet Smoker. The kit includes the replacement door lock and four mounting screws, and installation was a breeze.

The kit is made of high-quality iron with a black oxide coating and rust-resistant steel, so we feel confident that it will last for years to come. Plus, the latch is more versatile than just being a replacement for Pit Boss smokers – it can also be used on other vertical square smokers, doors, windows, cupboards, and drawers.

However, we did find that the latch may not fit all models of Pit Boss vertical smokers, so be sure to check the compatibility before purchasing. Additionally, some users reported difficulty with the latch staying closed, so it may require some adjustments or modifications for proper fit and function.

Overall, we recommend the Aakihi Door Latch Kit for those in need of a replacement latch for their compatible Pit Boss vertical smoker.

Yellulu Vertical Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for a wood pellet smoker grill, the Yellulu Vertical Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit might be worth considering.

Pros

• The machine can cook your food evenly and precisely, even if you’re not a professional cook.
• 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 panel of this sintering machine can adjust the temperature of the sinter ball, but it has a high temperature, so your food can cook quickly. You can’t just walk away from it and expect your food to get cooked.
• The power cord of this machine is very long, but it doesn’t come with meat needles, so you’ll need to prepare them yourself.
• The machine has a rating of only 2.8 out of 5 stars, so you may want to consider other options if you’re looking for a higher-quality wood pellet smoker grill.

Overall, the Yellulu Vertical Pellet Hopper Assembly Kit is a decent option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly wood pellet smoker grill. The machine can cook your food evenly and precisely, and it runs on electricity rather than charcoal, which is better for the environment. However, the machine has a high temperature, so you can’t just walk away from it and expect your food to get cooked, and it doesn’t come with meat needles, so you’ll need to prepare them yourself. Additionally, the machine has a rating of only 2.8 out of 5 stars, so you may want to consider other options if you’re looking for a higher-quality wood pellet smoker grill.

Cuisinart COS-330 Vertical Electric Smoker

If you’re looking for an electric smoker that offers plenty of space for smoking meats and vegetables, the Cuisinart COS-330 Vertical Electric Smoker is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The spacious 548 square inch interior provides ample room for smoking various cuts of meat and vegetables, making it perfect for large gatherings.
• Three removable smoking shelves offer flexibility when smoking large cuts of meat and can be easily cleaned in the dishwasher.
• The built-in thermometer on the front door allows for easy monitoring of the internal temperature, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection.

Cons

• The smoker requires wood chips when grilling, which can be an additional expense.
• Some users have reported that the temperature control dial can be difficult to read.
• The stainless steel trays that hold the wood chips and water can be difficult to clean.

We’ve had great experiences with the Cuisinart COS-330 Vertical Electric Smoker. The spacious interior allows us to smoke large cuts of meat and vegetables, making it perfect for hosting large gatherings. The three removable smoking shelves are a great feature, as they provide flexibility when smoking large cuts of meat and can be easily cleaned in the dishwasher. The built-in thermometer on the front door is also a great addition, as it allows us to easily monitor the internal temperature of the smoker.

However, the smoker does require wood chips when grilling, which can be an additional expense. Additionally, some users have reported that the temperature control dial can be difficult to read. Finally, the stainless steel trays that hold the wood chips and water can be difficult to clean, which can be a bit of a hassle.

Overall, we would highly recommend the Cuisinart COS-330 Vertical Electric Smoker to anyone looking for an electric smoker that offers plenty of space for smoking meats and vegetables. It’s a great option for hosting large gatherings and provides great results every time.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a vertical pellet smoker, there are several factors you should consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. In this section, we will discuss the key features that you should look for when shopping for a vertical pellet smoker.

Cooking Space

One of the most important factors to consider when buying a vertical pellet smoker is the cooking space. You should consider how much food you will be cooking at once and choose a smoker that can accommodate your needs. Smokers come in a range of sizes, from small units that can cook a few burgers to larger units that can cook multiple racks of ribs at once.

Temperature Range

Another important factor to consider is the temperature range of the smoker. A good smoker should be able to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. Look for a smoker that has a wide temperature range, as this will give you more flexibility when cooking different types of food.

Pellet Hopper Capacity

The pellet hopper is where the pellets are stored and fed into the smoker. The capacity of the pellet hopper will determine how long you can cook without having to refill the hopper. Look for a smoker with a large pellet hopper capacity if you plan on doing long cooks.

Build Quality

The build quality of the smoker is also an important consideration. Look for a smoker that is made from high-quality materials and has a sturdy construction. This will ensure that the smoker lasts for years and can withstand the elements.

Ease of Use

Finally, consider the ease of use of the smoker. Look for a smoker that is easy to set up and operate. Some smokers come with features like digital controls and Wi-Fi connectivity, which can make the cooking process even easier.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best vertical pellet smoker for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top features to look for in a vertical pellet smoker?

When looking for a vertical pellet smoker, some of the key features to consider are the size of the cooking area, the temperature range, the quality of construction, and the ease of use. A good vertical pellet smoker should have a large cooking area that can accommodate a variety of meats and vegetables. It should also have a wide temperature range, allowing you to smoke at low temperatures for long periods of time or sear at high temperatures for a shorter period. Additionally, you want a smoker that is well-constructed and easy to use, with features such as digital controls and automatic temperature regulation.

How do vertical pellet smokers compare to horizontal in terms of smoking quality?

Vertical pellet smokers are generally considered to be more efficient and easier to use than horizontal smokers. They use less fuel and produce less smoke, which results in a cleaner, more consistent smoke flavor. Additionally, vertical smokers tend to have better temperature control, which is crucial for smoking meat properly.

Can vertical pellet smokers be used for grilling as well as smoking?

While vertical pellet smokers are primarily designed for smoking, many models can also be used for grilling. Some models have a sear plate or a direct flame option that allows you to grill at high temperatures. However, if you plan on using your smoker primarily for grilling, a horizontal smoker may be a better option.

What are the advantages of using a vertical pellet smoker from Pit Boss or Camp Chef?

Pit Boss and Camp Chef are two of the most popular brands of vertical pellet smokers on the market. Some of the advantages of using a vertical pellet smoker from these brands include their large cooking areas, precise temperature control, and durable construction. Additionally, both brands offer a variety of models at different price points, making it easy to find a smoker that fits your needs and budget.

Which vertical pellet smokers offer the best value for their price?

When it comes to finding the best value for your money, some of the best options are the Pit Boss Vertical Pellet Smoker and the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX. Both of these smokers offer a large cooking area, precise temperature control, and durable construction at a reasonable price.

What do professional pitmasters typically look for in a vertical pellet smoker?

Professional pitmasters typically look for a vertical pellet smoker that offers precise temperature control, a large cooking area, and durable construction. They also look for features such as a digital control panel, automatic temperature regulation, and a wide temperature range. Additionally, many professional pitmasters prefer smokers that are easy to clean and maintain.