Top 10 Best Propane Gas Smokers Of 2018 – Best Propane Smokers Reviews And Buyers Guide

The Pros, the Cons, and the Facts About the 10 Best Propane Gas Smokers For 2018.

You can achieve that distinct smoky BBQ flavor that retains the same, if not more, level of juiciness by slow smoking your meats.  This is done by cooking your meats with an indirect heat and smoke combination.

If you have ever seen someone smoking meats, you are probably familiar with the large, cast iron smokers that utilize charcoal and wood chips as fuel.  You’ve probably also noticed that it takes a lot of work to get the temperature just right, not to mention maintaining that temperature sweet spot for hours on end.

With propane smokers, you eliminate the need for charcoal and get the convenience of using a simple tank of propane instead.  You more or less take the guesswork of maintaining the heat out of the equation for a much more stress-free experience.  Plus, propane smokers come in a variety of different setups with various features to fit everyone’s needs.

I’ve reviewed a ton of smokers over the years and I can tell you that there are several quality propane smokers to be had at just about every price range.

While our top choice, the Camp Chef Smoker 24″ Smoke Vault Propane Smoker is in the middle of the price pack, I will show you many other quality smokers to compare features, benefits, pricing and any other important details to allow you to make an informed purchasing decision!

Why This Guide Will Be Helpful For You

“That’s where I come in.”

I’ve had a lot of fun reviewing all of the best smokers I could get my hands on from the top manufacturers.  When I was unable to use a model personally, I did in-depth research and reached out to real users to get their feedback.

With that in mind, I can confidently say the following line up represents the best propane smokers you’re going to find on the market today.

The Top 10 Best Propane Gas Smokers

“The list includes a variety of styles, options, prices, sizes, and features. You should always perform your own due diligence, however.  Never buy a smoker on sight and don’t be swayed by pushy salespeople before you find the perfect option.”

Let’s jump right in!

#1 Camp Chef Smoker 24″ Smoke Vault Extra Large with Stainless Door and Adjustable Shelves (SMV24)

The Smoke Vault resembles, as its name would suggest, a bank vault.  The black metal smoker is complimented by a very large stainless steel door with a built in thermometer that not only gives it a great look but ensures that your smoker will stand up to any weather for years to come.

An easy to use handle allows you to access the two adjustable 21 ½” x 14” racks to allow for unlimited combinations of meats to be cooked at the same time.  This kit also includes a jerky rack as an added bonus.

Controlling the heat is easy with the three adjustable damper valves located on the top and each side of this smoker.

The protected burner drum allows for maximum heat control through the easy to use adjustment knob.  This burner heats a heavy-gauge steel wood tray to create smoke for that signature smoky flavor.  A removable porcelain base tray allows for easy cleaning between cooks as well.

One of our favorite things about this smoker is that it is relatively lightweight.  Weighing in at only 75lbs, this smoker is easily movable with one or two people using the built in handles on each side.

The matchless, snap-ignition provides an easy way to start your smoker.  This is the same style of ignition found on many high-end propane grills and is a popular feature among experienced grillers.

#2 Smoke Hollow 38205GW 38-Inch Propane Gas Smoker with Window

This model is highly popular with experienced smokers due to the convenient door window.  This window allows you to easily check your food at any time without having to open the lid of your smoker.  Opening your smoker while you are cooking allows valuable heat to escape causing longer cooking times.

To add to this convenience, Smoke Hollow utilizes a two-door system that allows you to replenish your fuel or refill your water pan without having to open the door to your food cooking compartment.  This allows you to lose less heat while maintaining your heat control.

The smoker is built from high-quality materials to allow cooking in any type of weather. The doors are also made from the same material for a uniform look.

Inside of the 3.4 cubic foot capacity smoker, you will notice 4 chrome plated cooking grids that can be arranged in multiple adjustment levels to allow you to cook any size meats all at once.  It also includes various hooks for hanging meats to smoke as well.

A cast brass burner and push-button ignition allow for an easy startup every time you go to cook.  The porcelain coated water bowl and wood pan are built with longevity in mind whereas metal pans and bowls start to rust over time.

Although the size may indicate that it is a heavier smoker, it actually weighs in at only 70lbs making it easy to move to wherever you choose to cook.

The two-door system is a huge benefit in its own, but coupled with the 4 cooking grates makes it even better.  We would suggest this smoker for anyone looking for convenience, large food capabilities, and high-quality materials.

#3 Dyna-Glo DGW1235BDP-D 36″ Wide Body LP Gas Smoker

The name really speaks for itself when you see the Dyna-Glow wide body smoker.  Wider than most, this propane gas smoker has over 1,235 square inches of cooking space across the 4 adjustable cooking grates.  Each grate can hold up to 25 pounds to allow for cooking for even the largest of parties.

To easily maintain consistent temperatures, this smoker utilizes 2 heavy duty, cast iron burners to fuel your smoke.  With an electronic pulse ignition system, you can easily start this smoker in any cold or warm weather.

To achieve maximum heat and smoke efficiency, this smoker, like many of the others, is built vertically.  This allows for the smoker to utilize the naturally rising heat for even cooking while using the least amount of fuel.

To add to the efficiency, Dyna-Glo uses a heavy gauge, porcelain-enameled steel wood chip box, and lid.  This helps to retain heat for maximum efficiency.

This smoker also includes a removable rib rack and pre-installed sausage hooks to allow for complete versatility no matter what types of meat you will be smoking.

To keep an eye on internal temperatures, this smoker has a built in, stainless steel thermometer on the door for easy readings.  This thermometer has a “Smoke Zone’ indicator that lets you know the ideal temperature to achieve that signature smoky flavor.

#4 Smoke Hollow PS4415 Pro Series Propane Smoker, 33″ x 24.5″ x 60″, Black

This smoker is somewhat similar to the 38205GW, however, it utilizes a slide-out wood chip tray rather than a swing out door.

This smoker is constructed of high-quality materials and features a glass door for an easy way to view your food.  It also has a built in temperature gauge that allows you to easily monitor the inside temperature of the smoker.  These two combines allow you to watch your food without having to open a lid or door, which releases large amounts of heat and slows cooking times.

Inside the massive 6 cubic feet of internal space, you will find 2 standard cooking grids, 2 jerky style grids, and a combination cooking grid/rib rack to allow for cooking virtually any type of meat all at the same time.

Two stainless steel temperature control knobs power the 2 11,000 BTW stainless steel burners to deliver an even cook for any type of meat.  The porcelain water pan, improved upper chimney, and easy to adjust drag control also help make this smoker a top contender.

With a slide out fuel box and windowed door, you can easily check on your food without ever having to open the smoker.  This is a smoker that will most likely need a more permanent spot or at the very least, 2 people to move it.

#5 Cuisinart COS-244 Vertical 36″ Propane Smoker, Black

Built similar to the previous smokers, this propane smoker features high-quality steel that has been powder coated black for both a sturdy and long-lasting build.

The biggest eye-catching feature is the integration of the double door design seen in previous smokers.  This is a huge advantage over one door smokers as you do not have to open the cooking area to refill wood chips or your water pan.

Weighing in at only 40 pounds, you can easily move this smoker to wherever you need.  This makes it great for patios and backyard kitchens, not to mention, taking it along to your next tailgate party!

Temperature control is easy with the built in thermostat and a rear vent.  The stainless steel burner is easily controlled with the simple to use, click ignition knob on the bottom of the smoker.

With its compact size and four 14”x14” stainless steel shelves, you can take this smoker anywhere you desire.  The double door design is also a huge plus to keep your food cooking while you replenish your fuel and water!

#6 Smoke Hollow 44241G2 44-Inch Vertical Propane Gas Smoker

They are back again with their 44241G2 44-inch vertical propane gas smoker. This smoker features a two-door design but does not include a window on the door like previous models.

Inside the Smoke Hollow 44-inch, you will notice an impressive 6.5 cubic foot cooking area where the 5 included cooking grids live.  Smoke Hollow includes 2 standard cooking grids, 2 jerky grids, 1 rib rack, and 1 sausage hanger as a bonus.

Dual stainless steel burners heat the 2 porcelain coated wood chip pans and porcelain-coated water pan to produce the perfect amount of moisture and smoke.  External knobs individually control each burner and the integrated door thermometer adds even more easy to use features.

This smoker also comes with an easy to use push button ignition, which makes this smoker a perfect starter smoker for even the most novice grillers.

Built to last, this smoker can stand up to any weather conditions.  This is a plus as the smoker is very heavy and is not easily moved.

#7 Masterbuilt 20051311 GS30D 2-Door Propane Smoker

This smoker is priced right under $200 and still sports some must-have features.

When shopping for propane smokers, the price may play a huge role in your purchasing decision. That does not mean you have to sacrifice to afford a quality smoker.

Masterbuilt’s 20051311 GS30D propane gas smoker is a perfect example as it has one of our favorite features, the double door.  The dual door used to separate the fuel and cooking compartments is usually found on more expensive models.  However, Masterbuilt has built this into this affordable smoker.

Inside the cooking compartment, you will find four chrome cooking racks with 717 square inches of cooking space to cook just about any combination of meats.  These removable racks allow for any combination of meats to be cooked.

The simplicity of this smoker makes it easy to use for any griller.  A push button ignition and turn style knob controls the stainless steel burner that heats a porcelain-coated wood chip tray and water pan.

Priced under $200 at most places, this smoker gives you the best bang for the number of features you are getting.  This is the perfect beginner’s smoker and can also be a great option for experienced grillers who want a cheaper, easily transportable smoker.

#8 Weston 30-Inch Outdoor Propane Vertical Smoker (41-0701-W)

This smoker is build to smoke enough food for a small gathering which is perfect for those who don’t host large parties.

Featuring a fully black powder coated steel housing, this smoker is built to withstand any climates. The single door design allows for easy access to both the food and the fuel for easy maintenance.

The three chrome cooking grids allow for multiple types of meat to be cooked at the same time.  Each is removable to adjust for any sized meats.

A rotary ignition and heat control knob allows for easy startup and heat control.  This grill is simple enough to use for any level of griller to use including beginners!

The easy to use starter and temperature control knob allows you to easily control the temperature and monitor it from the built in door thermometer.

#9 Weston 48-Inch Outdoor Propane Vertical Smoker

The Weston 48 inch outdoor propane gas smoker may be the solution for you.

This smoker features a tall heavy gauge, black-coated steel cooking cabinet to give you a long lasting smoker that can withstand any weather or climate. The stainless steel door gives it a very stylish look that also adds to the high-quality construction.

Built vertically, this smoker utilizes the naturally rising heat to give a perfect, even smoke to each of the meats you are cooking.  The 6 removable racks allow for any combination of foods to be cooked.  The included sausage hooks give you the versatility to hang sausage and any other larger meats.

Weighing in at 108lbs, this smoker is not easily moved by one person, so finding a permanent place for the Weston smoker is the way to go.  If you have to move it, the smoker includes handles on each side for transportation.

The rotary style ignition switch and heat control knob allow for an easy to use system that is perfect for any griller.

#10 Masterbuilt 20050116 Portable Gas Smoker

Built with portability in mind, this black-coated, all steel smoker weighs in at only 22 pounds for easy transportation.  Fold-out legs allow for this smoker to be easily elevated when in use and stored away when not in use.  Handles on each side of this smoker give you an easy grip to move this smoker to anywhere the party takes you.

Although it may seem small in size, this smoker easily fits a whole turkey or ham, making it a great smoker to have for tailgating events or road trips.  It includes two cooking grates that can be removed to accommodate different size meats.

The only downside is that, out of the box, the smoker uses a 1lb propane cylinder. A 20lb tank adapter is sold separately.

This lightweight, portable smoker can fit up to a whole turkey or ham, making it the perfect solution for families who love to travel and cook.  With the super low price, we would suggest picking one up even if you already have a smoker at home so you can take it on the go!

Propane Smoker FAQ (User Pro Tips And Product Care Guide)

The below often asked questions and answers will help you decide if a propane smoker, overall, will be the best choice for you, and more importantly, that you are able to pick out the right one the first time.

Who Makes The Best Propane Smoker?

There probably isn’t a single propane smoker that will please everyone but there are several highly rated brands that are highly respected.

Brands like Camp Chef, Smoke Hollow, Dyna-Glo, Masterbuilt, Weston and Cuisinart are all mainstays in the industry.  It’s hard to go wrong with any of these smokers.

How To Care For And Clean A Propane Smoker.

This does not mean that you can neglect cleaning your smoker though.  The interior will need to be scrubbed with a soft bristle brush and wiped clean with a cloth from time to time.  Grates still need to be scrubbed as well as the wood and water trays.  The good news is that most of these models feature dishwasher-safe trays for easy cleanup.

Lastly, like any outdoor cooker investment, using a quality cover will protect your smoker from the elements and go a long way to prolonging the life of your smoker.

The bottom line is if you want a smoker that is easier to use and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance while in the midst of smoking, you might want to opt for a propane smoker instead of a charcoal smoker.

But with that said, if you are more of a traditionalist who wants the authentic flavor for wood smoked foods, you can check out my list of the 10 Best Charcoal Smokers available now right here.

Helpful Tips For Smoking Meats

1. Pick A Good Rub Or Brine – To get a good crust and flavor to your meat, before you throw it in the smoker, rub a dry rub or dry brine on your meat. This allows for the meat to absorb flavor and hold in the juices. For more info on dry brining, you can read How Does Dry Brining Work – A Grillers Guide To Dry Brining

2. Plan Ahead – To get an even cook, make sure to take your meat out of the fridge 1 hour before starting to allow for the internal temperature to rise for a more even cook.

3. Be Patient – Smoking meats is all about cooking at a low temperature for a slower period. This allows for the smoke and heat to slowly cook the meat for a more flavorful food.

4. Different Woods Mean Different Flavors – The flavor from smoking comes from the type of wood chips you choose to use. Make sure to do your research on which wood chips you should use for the type of meat you are cooking.

5. Leave The Door Closed – One of the biggest mistakes when smoking meats are lifting the lid or opening the door.  While this may seem crucial to check on your meat, this allows precious heat to escape, which slows cooking times.  Invest in a Wireless Digital Thermometer so you can monitor your meat without having to open the doors.

Final Verdict – Which Propane Smoker Is Best?

Without question, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault offers quality and high performance in the propane smoking world!  It’s really no wonder they have so many happy customers.

If you have been searching for the best propane gas smoker, we hope that this list has shed some light on the pros, cons, and features of some of the most popular smokers currently on the market.

Propane gas smokers have risen in popularity over the past decade and with there ease of use, are only becoming more and more popular.  Knowing the ins and outs of your potential investment is the key to making a good purchasing decision.

• Smoke Hollow 38-Inch Propane Gas Smoker with Window
• Dyna-Glo 36″ Wide Body LP Gas Smoker
• Smoke Hollow Pro Series Propane Smoker

In the end, match your needs with the best overall quality available at your price range.  Each of the models on this list offers quality value for what you get.  With a little practice using any one of these smokers, I am confident you will enjoy the outcome.

Now It’s Your Turn

Which outdoor smoker have you used before?

Have you used a propane smoker and have any tips to share?

What features do you typically like to see in a propane smoker?

Are you going to be purchasing a smoker in the future?  Or do you plan on looking at a pellet grill, built-in or standalone gas grill, or charcoal model?

Let me know by leaving a quick comment below.

If you still have questions, please feel free to send me a message.

Cheers,

Patrick

At The Grilling Life, I am committed to researching and writing thoughtful, informative and editorially independent reviews of the best products for your outdoor cooking needs.  If you like what I do, you can support me through my chosen links, which earn me a commission.  This allows me to continue sharing with you my love for all things barbecue.  Your support is truly appreciated.