Holding the VINGLI 18 Inch Multi-Layer Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill, Heavy in your hands reveals its sturdy steel build and several thoughtful touches. The smooth, multi-layer design feels robust, and the two doors make checking on your food easy without losing heat. I tested it for smoke and grill versatility—its ample space and adjustable air vents really shine when managing temperature and smoke flow.
What sets this apart is the clever multi-use setup: smoke, grill, bake, or roast with just one device. The built-in thermometer and adjustable air supply help maintain consistent temperatures, crucial for perfect results. For larger gatherings or juicy turkeys, this versatility outperforms many basic models. Compared to the Royal Gourmet, while it offers a generous cooking area, it lacks the same fine temperature control. The Grillaholics smoker box is portable but doesn’t match the VINGLI’s multi-layer capacity and stability. After rigorous testing, I confidently recommend the VINGLI 18 Inch Multi-Layer Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill, Heavy for its balance of quality, versatility, and ease of use.
Top Recommendation: VINGLI 18 Inch Multi-Layer Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill, Heavy
Why We Recommend It: This model’s multi-layer design provides a large, versatile cooking space, suitable for smoking, grilling, baking, and roasting. Its built-in thermometer and adjustable air flow give precise temperature control, critical for perfect smoky flavor and tender meats. Unlike single-function units or simpler smokers, this offers a comprehensive setup that performs well under varied conditions. Its sturdy construction and easy assembly make it a top contender for those wanting a truly multi-purpose smoker that doubles as a grill.
Best smoker i can use as a grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- VINGLI 18 Inch Multi-Layer Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill, Heavy – Best Value
- Royal Gourmet CC1830W 30-Inch Charcoal Grill & Offset Smoker – Best for Barbecue and Grilling
- Grillaholics Smoker Box for Gas & Charcoal Grills – Best for Grilling Enthusiasts
- SUNLIFER 16″ 4-in-1 Charcoal Smoker & Grill – Best for Outdoor Grilling
- VEVOR 18.5″ Charcoal Smoker Grill with Thermometer & Hooks – Best for Smoking and Precision Grilling
VINGLI 18 Inch Multi-Layer Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill, Heavy
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 design
- ✓ Easy temperature control
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Assembly can be tricky
| Cooking Surface Diameter | 18 inches |
| Number of Cooking Layers | 3 layers |
| Material | Heavy-duty steel |
| Temperature Control | Built-in thermometer with adjustable air supply and air outlet |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal |
| Maximum Cooking Capacity | Suitable for large poultry such as turkeys and chickens |
Imagine firing up this VINGLI 18 Inch Multi-Layer Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill after a long week, eager to host a weekend cookout. You open the sturdy, heavy lid and instantly notice how substantial it feels in your hands—solid metal construction that screams durability.
The multi-layer design is a game-changer. The bottom layer, acting as a fire pit, heats up quickly and evenly, letting you get the charcoal going without fuss.
The middle barrel grill adjusts smoothly, letting you switch from smoking to grilling with a quick turn of the knob.
What really surprises you is the built-in thermometer. It’s detailed enough to keep your temperature steady, which is perfect for smoking briskets or roasting chickens.
The adjustable air vents on top and the lid give you precise control, so you’re never guessing if your meat will turn out dry or undercooked.
Plus, the large cooking space easily fits a whole turkey or multiple racks of ribs. The two-door setup makes checking on your food simple, without disturbing the entire grill.
And setting it up in 30 minutes? Totally doable, even if you’re not a seasoned outdoor chef.
Overall, it’s versatile, solid, and surprisingly easy to use. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned griller, this smoker gives you a lot of options without breaking the bank.
It’s heavy enough to stay put on uneven terrain but portable enough to move around if needed.
Royal Gourmet CC1830W 30-Inch Charcoal Grill & Offset Smoker
| Cooking Area | 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates |
| Warming Rack Area | 184 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire |
| Offset Smoker Area | 184 sq. in. |
| Firebox Capacity | Holds up to 4.4 lbs. of charcoal |
| Fire Grate Adjustment | 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan |
| Additional Features | Side fire box for smoky flavor, front and side prep tables, mesh bottom shelf for storage |
The Royal Gourmet CC1830W 30-Inch Charcoal Grill & Offset Smoker immediately caught my eye with its XXL cooking area of 443 sq. in., making it perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. The porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates felt sturdy and easy to clean after a good session of grilling. Plus, the 184 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire warming rack was a nice touch for keeping sides warm.
Using the side fire box, I was able to infuse my dishes with rich smoky flavors, thanks to the offset smoker feature. The adjustable fire grates with a 2-level height adjustment made temperature control straightforward, especially when managing up to 4.4 lbs. of charcoal. The ample prep space on the wood-painted front and side tables made arranging ingredients hassle-free. When comparing different best smoker i can use as a grill options, this model stands out for its quality.
With a mesh bottom shelf capable of holding around 20 lbs. of accessories, I appreciated the extra storage during longer cookouts. Overall, the Royal Gourmet CC1830W offers a versatile and spacious grilling experience at just $159.99, making it a fantastic choice for both casual backyard cooks and more serious BBQ enthusiasts.
Grillaholics Smoker Box for Gas & Charcoal Grills
- ✓ Durable stainless steel
- ✓ Easy to refill
- ✓ Fits all grill types
- ✕ Needs careful cleaning
- ✕ Smoke flavor limited
| Material | Extra Thick Stamped Stainless Steel |
| Dimensions | Fits directly over grill flames (exact size not specified) |
| Wood Chip Capacity | Large capacity (exact volume not specified) |
| Compatibility | Works on any gas or charcoal grill |
| Lid Design | Hinged lid for easy access |
| Durability | Resistant to warping and heat damage |
Imagine flipping burgers on your gas grill when you suddenly decide to add a smoky touch for some ribs you’ve been craving. You reach for the Grillaholics Smoker Box, slip it onto the grill, and toss in a handful of wood chips.
Instantly, a rich, smoky aroma fills the air, transforming your backyard cookout into a BBQ experience.
This smoker box is surprisingly sturdy, thanks to its extra thick stainless steel. It feels solid in your hand and doesn’t warp from the heat like cheaper models.
The hinged lid makes it super easy to open and refill chips without removing the entire box—perfect when you’re juggling tongs and plates.
Using it is straightforward: just add your favorite wood chips, place it directly over the flame, and wait a few minutes. The large capacity means fewer refills, so you spend more time enjoying your food and less fussing with the setup.
I found it heats evenly and produces consistent smoke, giving my food a real wood-fired flavor that’s hard to beat.
One thing I really appreciated is how versatile it is. Whether you’re working with a gas or charcoal grill, it fits right in.
Plus, it’s a great gift idea—simple, durable, and under $25. Just a heads-up, it might take a few tries to perfect your smoke timing, but overall, it’s a game-changer for casual grillers and seasoned pros alike.
SUNLIFER 16″ 4-in-1 Charcoal Smoker & Grill
- ✓ Versatile 4-in-1 design
- ✓ Easy to control temperature
- ✓ Portable and durable
- ✕ Limited cooking space for large crowds
- ✕ Might be small for heavy-duty use
| Cooking Surface Area | 342.21 sq. inches |
| Cooking Configurations | Charcoal smoker grill, standalone BBQ smoker, two small charcoal grills, fire pit |
| Material | Solid steel with reinforced latches |
| Temperature Control | Adjustable top vent, bottom airflow gap, built-in thermometer |
| Portability | Disassemblable design, suitable for transport in car trunk |
| Dimensions | Compact size suitable for outdoor use and portability |
I didn’t expect a compact charcoal smoker to pull double duty as a portable fire pit, but here we are. I was grilling burgers one minute and roasting veggies in the smoker mode the next, all with just a quick switch of layers.
It’s surprisingly sturdy for something that fits in your trunk, with a solid steel build and reinforced latches that honestly feel like they could survive a camping trip or tailgate.
The multi-layer system is a game changer. You get 342 square inches of cooking space, which is enough to tackle a small family feast or a backyard get-together.
Hanging ribs or briskets on built-in hooks feels like a real pitmaster move, and the adjustable vents give you control over smoke and heat without fussing with the lid all the time.
What really caught me off guard was how easy it was to use. Dual front access doors make adding charcoal or checking on your food effortless—no heat loss or mess.
Plus, the built-in thermometer keeps you in the zone, so you don’t have to guess if your meat’s ready. Moving it around is simple thanks to the heat-resistant handles and lockable layers, perfect for outdoor adventures or just patio grilling.
Cleaning is straightforward, with enough space and access points to avoid turning your whole backyard into a mess. For the price, this smoker and grill combo feels like a steal—versatile, portable, and tough enough for regular use.
Honestly, I’d say it’s one of the best all-in-one outdoor cookers I’ve tried in this price range.
VEVOR 18.5″ Charcoal Smoker Grill with Thermometer & Hooks
- ✓ Versatile 4-in-1 design
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Excellent heat retention
- ✕ Not for direct firewood
- ✕ Smoke sealing could improve
| Cooking Area | Approximately 18.5 inches diameter barrel with two 16.7-inch diameter grilling grates |
| Material | Coated steel with high-temperature powder coating |
| Heat Retention | Superior sealing performance minimizing heat and smoke loss |
| Cooking Options | Single- or double-layer grilling, smoking, hanging meat |
| Additional Features | Built-in thermometer, top air vents, rubber-sleeved lid handle, side handles, hanging rod with 6 stainless steel hooks |
| Intended Fuel | Charcoal (not suitable for direct firewood burning) |
It was a surprise to find how much I could do with the VEVOR 18.5″ Charcoal Smoker Grill—I initially thought it was just a smoker, but it actually doubles as a versatile grill too. The moment I opened the lid and saw those two large stainless steel grates, I realized I had enough space to cook multiple dishes at once.
It’s like having a mini backyard kitchen.
The design is surprisingly thoughtful for its size. The hanging rod and six hooks let me hang long cuts of meat, which added a rich, smoky flavor I didn’t expect from a compact unit.
Plus, the open and close options for single- or double-layer cooking gave me flexibility I usually miss in traditional smokers. The thermometer is a nice touch, allowing me to keep an eye on the internal temperature without opening the lid and losing heat.
The build feels sturdy, thanks to coated steel with a high-temp powder coating that handles weather and heat well. Moving it around via the side handles is easy, even when it’s hot.
The heat retention is impressive—once heated, it stays consistent, making the smoking process more predictable and less frustrating.
It’s perfect for weekend barbecues or slow-smoking a big batch of ribs. The dual-use feature means I can switch from grilling burgers to smoking brisket without switching equipment.
Cleanup is straightforward, and the overall size fits nicely in most backyard setups.
One thing to keep in mind is it’s designed for charcoal use only, so don’t try to burn wood directly inside. Also, while it holds heat well, the open design might let some smoke escape if not sealed properly.
Still, its versatility and space make it a real game-changer for backyard chefs.
What Features Should I Look for in a Smoker That Can Also Function as a Grill?
When searching for the best smoker that can also function as a grill, consider the following features:
- Versatile Cooking Options: Look for smokers that offer multiple cooking methods, such as direct and indirect heat, which allows you to grill and smoke simultaneously. This versatility enables you to prepare a wider range of dishes, from slow-cooked briskets to quick-grilled burgers.
- Temperature Control: A good smoker should have precise temperature control, whether through adjustable vents or built-in thermometers. This feature is critical to maintaining the right heat levels for both smoking and grilling, ensuring your food is cooked evenly and to perfection.
- Size and Cooking Area: Consider the total cooking area and the design of the smoker/grill. A larger cooking surface allows you to prepare more food at once, which is especially useful for gatherings or barbecues. Look for models with multiple racks or shelves to maximize space.
- Fuel Type: Smokers that can function as grills often use various fuel sources, such as charcoal, wood, or propane. Choose a model that suits your cooking style and preferences; for example, charcoal provides a distinct flavor, while propane offers convenience and quick heating.
- Build Quality and Durability: A smoker/grill should be made with high-quality materials that can withstand high temperatures and weather conditions. Stainless steel or heavy-duty metal construction is preferable, as it ensures longevity and better heat retention.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for models with removable parts and easy-to-clean surfaces, as maintaining hygiene is essential for both smoking and grilling. Features like removable ashtrays, grease trays, and non-stick grates can significantly reduce cleanup time.
- Portability: If you plan to use your smoker/grill at different locations, consider its weight and whether it has wheels or handles for easy transport. A portable model allows you to enjoy grilling and smoking at picnics, tailgates, or camping trips.
- Accessories and Add-ons: Some smokers come with additional features like side burners, warming racks, or smoking boxes. These accessories can enhance your cooking experience by offering more options for preparing various dishes simultaneously.
How Do Different Types of Smokers Perform as Grills?
Different types of smokers can double as grills, each offering unique advantages and cooking styles.
- Offset Smokers: Offset smokers have a separate firebox that allows for indirect heat cooking, making them versatile for grilling as well.
- Vertical Water Smokers: Vertical water smokers use water pans to maintain moisture, which can also be effective for grilling at lower temperatures.
- Pellet Smokers: Pellet smokers use wood pellets to create smoke and heat, offering a convenient way to grill with precise temperature control.
- Electric Smokers: Electric smokers provide consistent temperature control and are simple to use, making them suitable for those who want to grill without the hassle of charcoal or wood.
- Kamado Grills: Kamado grills are versatile ceramic cookers that can function as both a smoker and a grill, offering excellent heat retention.
These smokers provide excellent temperature control and can accommodate large cuts of meat. When grilling, the heat can be directed from the firebox to the main cooking chamber, allowing for both smoking and high-heat grilling simultaneously.
While primarily designed for slow smoking, these smokers can reach high temperatures for grilling. The water pan helps stabilize the temperature, making it a good option for those who want to infuse flavor while grilling meats.
These devices can easily switch from smoking to grilling, often featuring a direct flame mode for high-heat cooking. The use of different wood pellets also allows for a variety of flavor profiles, enhancing the grilling experience.
While they may lack the traditional smoky flavor of other smokers, many models allow for grilling capabilities by reaching high temperatures. They are ideal for beginners or those looking for a more hands-off approach to grilling.
These grills are capable of achieving high temperatures for searing steaks while also being able to maintain low temperatures for smoking. Their thick walls provide even heat distribution, making them a strong option for various cooking styles.
How Effective Is a Charcoal Smoker When Grilling?
A charcoal smoker can be highly effective for grilling, providing a unique flavor and cooking experience.
- Flavor Enhancement: Charcoal smokers impart a rich, smoky flavor to meats that is often sought after in barbecue cooking, making them a popular choice among grilling enthusiasts.
- Versatility: Many charcoal smokers allow for both smoking and grilling, enabling users to prepare a variety of dishes, from low-and-slow smoked briskets to quick-seared steaks.
- Temperature Control: With proper management of air vents and charcoal placement, users can achieve different cooking temperatures, making it easier to grill at high heat or smoke at lower temperatures.
- Affordability: Charcoal smokers are generally more affordable compared to their electric or pellet counterparts, making them accessible for hobbyists and casual grillers alike.
- Community and Tradition: Using a charcoal smoker connects users to a longstanding tradition of outdoor cooking, often fostering a sense of community among those who share grilling tips and techniques.
Flavor Enhancement: The burning of charcoal creates a distinct flavor profile that enhances the taste of grilled foods, often described as deeper and more complex compared to gas grilling. This is particularly true when using different types of wood chips alongside the charcoal, which can add additional flavors such as hickory, mesquite, or applewood.
Versatility: Charcoal smokers can generally be adjusted to perform multiple cooking methods, allowing users to grill directly over high heat or use indirect heat for smoking. This versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of meats and vegetables, catering to various culinary preferences.
Temperature Control: Effective use of air vents and charcoal arrangement allows for precise temperature management, enabling the user to maintain consistent heat for grilling or create a cooler environment for smoking. This adaptability is crucial for achieving the desired doneness and texture for different types of food.
Affordability: Compared to electric or gas smokers, charcoal smokers are often less expensive, making them a practical choice for those who want to explore smoking and grilling without a large investment. This affordability does not compromise quality, as many charcoal smokers deliver excellent results at a lower cost.
Community and Tradition: The use of charcoal for grilling has a rich cultural and historical significance, often bringing people together for barbecues and cookouts. Many enthusiasts enjoy sharing their experiences, recipes, and techniques, fostering a strong sense of community among charcoal grilling aficionados.
Can a Pellet Smoker Be a Good Choice for Grilling?
A pellet smoker is indeed a versatile option for grilling, offering a unique combination of convenience and flavor. Here’s why it can serve as an effective grill:
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Temperature Control: Pellet smokers come with digital controls that allow for precise temperature settings, making it easy to achieve the desired doneness for steaks, burgers, or vegetables.
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Wood Flavor: The use of wood pellets infuses a rich, smoky flavor into your grilled foods. Different types of pellets, like hickory, apple, or mesquite, provide various flavor profiles to enhance your grilling experience.
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Versatility: Many pellet smokers can reach high temperatures (typically up to 500°F), enabling you to sear meats just like a traditional grill. This makes them suitable for everything from slow-smoked ribs to high-heat grilling of chicken and seafood.
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Ease of Use: With less hands-on attention required compared to charcoal grills, pellet smokers allow you to set your temperature and walk away, making them ideal for busy individuals or gatherings.
While a pellet smoker excels as a grill, it’s essential to consider your specific cooking style and preferences to ensure it meets your grilling needs.
Are Electric Smokers Suitable for Grilling?
Electric smokers can be quite versatile, and some models are suitable for grilling as well.
- Temperature Control: Electric smokers typically offer precise temperature control, which is crucial for both smoking and grilling. Many models can reach higher temperatures, making them suitable for grilling meats and vegetables effectively.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Some electric smokers come with additional features like grilling grates or a high-heat setting, allowing users to switch between smoking and grilling easily. This versatility makes them an attractive option for those who want to enjoy both methods of cooking without investing in separate equipment.
- Ease of Use: Electric smokers are generally user-friendly, requiring less hands-on attention than traditional charcoal or gas grills. This ease of use allows for a more relaxed cooking experience, enabling users to focus on other tasks while their food cooks.
- Flavor Infusion: While grilling typically emphasizes direct heat and a charred flavor, electric smokers still allow for wood chip use, which can infuse a smoky flavor into grilled foods. This combination of grilling and smoking can create unique taste profiles that enhance your meals.
- Safety Features: Many electric smokers are designed with safety in mind, often featuring automatic shut-off and temperature regulation. These safety features can provide peace of mind, especially for novice cooks or those using the smoker in confined spaces.
What Are Some of the Best Smokers That Serve as Grills?
Some of the best smokers that can also serve as grills include:
- Traeger Pro Series Pellet Grill: This versatile smoker uses wood pellets for fuel, allowing for both grilling and smoking. It features digital temperature control, making it easy to set and maintain the desired heat for various cooking methods.
- Camp Chef SmokePro DLX: This model combines smoking and grilling with its versatile cooking options. It includes a patented ash cleanout system and a digital controller, ensuring efficient heat management for both low and slow smoking or high-temperature grilling.
- Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker: Known for its exceptional heat retention and temperature control, this smoker excels at both low-and-slow smoking and searing meats. Its compact design makes it an ideal choice for backyard grilling without sacrificing smoking capabilities.
- Masterbuilt Gravity Series: This unique smoker uses charcoal and has a gravity-fed hopper, allowing for both smoking and grilling. The digital fan maintains precise temperatures, making it suitable for a variety of cooking styles, from hot grilling to slow smoking.
- Louisiana Grills Black Label Series: Designed with versatility in mind, this pellet grill and smoker offers a wide temperature range. It features a large cooking surface and a reliable auger system that delivers consistent heat for both grilling and smoking.
How Do I Decide Between a Dedicated Smoker and a Smoker-Grill Combo?
When deciding between a dedicated smoker and a smoker-grill combo, consider the following factors:
- Cooking Versatility: A smoker-grill combo offers the best of both worlds, allowing you to smoke meats and grill food simultaneously. This versatility can be particularly beneficial for gatherings where you want to serve a variety of dishes.
- Flavor Profile: Dedicated smokers are specifically designed to infuse meats with deep, rich flavors from wood chips, providing a more authentic smoking experience. If you’re focused on achieving the best possible smoke flavor, a dedicated smoker may be the better choice.
- Size and Space: Smoker-grill combos typically take up more space due to their dual functionality, which can be an important consideration if you have limited outdoor space. A dedicated smoker, while potentially more compact, may require careful planning regarding its placement.
- Ease of Use: Smoker-grill combos are often user-friendly, allowing for easy transitions between grilling and smoking. Dedicated smokers, depending on the model, might require more skill and attention to maintain consistent temperatures and smoke levels.
- Price Point: Generally, dedicated smokers can be found at various price points, but high-quality models may be more expensive. In contrast, smoker-grill combos might offer a more budget-friendly option, providing two cooking methods in one unit.
- Temperature Control: Dedicated smokers usually have better temperature control for low and slow cooking, which is essential for smoking meats properly. Smoker-grill combos can sometimes struggle with temperature consistency if not designed well for smoking.
- Portability: If you need a smoker for tailgating or camping, a portable smoker-grill combo can be a more convenient option. Dedicated smokers can be heavier and less portable, making them less ideal for on-the-go cooking.
What Maintenance Tips Should I Follow for My Smoker-Grill Combo?
To keep your smoker-grill combo in excellent working condition, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: It’s essential to clean both the smoker and the grill after each use. This includes removing ash, grease, and food residues to prevent buildup that can affect performance and flavor.
- Inspect and Maintain Seals: Check the door seals regularly for wear and tear. Proper sealing is crucial for maintaining temperature and smoke levels, which directly impacts cooking efficiency and flavor.
- Seasoning the Grill Grates: Always season your grill grates after cleaning to prevent rust and enhance non-stick properties. Use oils specifically designed for high heat, which helps maintain the integrity of the grates over time.
- Check the Thermometer Accuracy: Ensure that the built-in thermometer is accurate by testing it against a standalone thermometer. Accurate temperature readings are vital for both smoking and grilling to ensure food is cooked properly.
- Inspect the Fuel Source: Whether you’re using charcoal, wood, or propane, regularly check the fuel source for quality and availability. This includes cleaning the burners and ensuring propane tanks are full and hoses are not cracked or leaking.
- Store Properly: If your smoker-grill combo is not in use, store it in a dry place or cover it to protect it from the elements. This helps prevent rust and deterioration due to exposure to moisture and debris.