Best Charcoal Vertical Smokers of 2025

Bryan Hicks Avatar
Bryan Hicks
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Charcoal vertical smokers are a popular choice among barbecue enthusiasts due to their efficient and traditional design. These smokers feature a tall and narrow shape that allows for maximum heat retention and smoke circulation. The charcoal is placed in a separate compartment at the bottom of the smoker, while the food is placed on racks above. The result is a slow-cooked and flavorful meal that is sure to impress. Charcoal vertical smokers come in a variety of sizes and styles, making them a versatile option for any backyard barbecue.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Dyna-Glo 36" Charcoal Smoker Cover #TOP 1
Dyna-Glo 36" Charcoal Smoker
ftb score rating icon 9.8
BIG HORN OUTDOORS 16" Charcoal Smoker Cover #TOP 2
BIG HORN OUTDOORS 16" Charcoal Smoker
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Broil King 923610 Charcoal Smoker Cover #TOP 3
Broil King 923610 Charcoal Smoker
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Charcoal Vertical Smokers

#TOP 1

Dyna-Glo 36" Charcoal Smoker

DGX780BDC-D
Black
Standard
Dyna-Glo 36" Charcoal Smoker Cover
Dyna-Glo DGX780BDC-D 36" Vertical Charcoal Smoker Black

The Dyna-Glo DGX780BDC-D 36" Vertical Charcoal Smoker Black features 4 cooking grates, a total cooking area of 784 square inches, and a charcoal & ash management system. It also comes with a stainless temperature gauge that indicates the ideal temperature for infusing smoke flavor. Use the custom-fit Dyna-Glo premium cover (sold separately) to protect your smoker.

What We Like
Large cooking area
Efficient charcoal and ash management
Stainless temperature gauge for ideal smoke infusion
#TOP 2

BIG HORN OUTDOORS 16" Charcoal Smoker

BHCS16
Black
16 inch
BIG HORN OUTDOORS 16" Charcoal Smoker Cover
BIG HORN OUTDOORS 16 inch Charcoal Smoker, Vertical BBQ Grill, Heavy Duty 4 In 1 Fire Pit with Built-in Thermometer & Adjustable Vent System for Backyard Patio Camping

Big Horn Charcoal Smoker is a versatile outdoor cooking solution that offers a multi-functional design. With its adjustable vent system and built-in thermometer, you can easily control the temperature for optimal smoking or grilling. The heat-resistant handles and visual windows provide convenience for monitoring food without lifting the lid. Its spacious grilling area with crossbars and food hooks ensures even cooking. The sturdy construction and portable design make it perfect for backyard gatherings, camping trips, and beach barbecues.

What We Like
Versatile Multi-Functional Design
Adjustable Vent System
Spacious Grilling Area
#TOP 3

Broil King 923610 Charcoal Smoker

923610
Black
Broil King 923610 Charcoal Smoker Cover
Broil King 923610 Vertical Charcoal Smoker

The Broil King 923610 Charcoal Smoker offers a total cooking surface of 770 sq. in. and 4 cubic feet overall cooking capacity, with 4 fully adjustable stainless steel cooking grids, a multi-purpose roast/rib rack, and Root-Draft damper technology. It also features an Accu-Temp thermometer, 16 stainless steel meat hooks, double walled construction, and a secondary door for easy access to the extra-large stainless steel water bowl and smoker box.

What We Like
Large cooking capacity
Accurate temperature control
Easy to access water bowl and smoker box
#TOP 4

Cuisinart 18" Vertical Charcoal Smoker

COS-118
Cuisinart 18" Vertical Charcoal Smoker Cover
Cuisinart COS-118, Vertical Charcoal Smoker, 18"

The Cuisinart 18" Vertical Charcoal Smoker offers 510 square inches of cooking space with two stainless steel racks. It features a porcelain enamel water bowl and a dual air vent system with top and bottom vents. The latching base ensures secure closure during cooking.

What We Like
Large cooking space with two racks
Porcelain enamel water bowl
Dual air vent system for optimal temperature control
#TOP 5

Realcook Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill

REALCOOK-20
20" Charcoal
Realcook Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill Cover
Realcook Charcoal BBQ Smoker Grill - 20 Inch Vertical Smoker for Outdoor Cooking Grilling

The Realcook Charcoal Smoker Grill is a versatile outdoor cooking appliance that can be used as a fire pit, adjustable barrel grill, and smoker. Its multi-layered design allows for grilling, steaming, baking, braising, roasting, and smoking. With a special bottom vent design and built-in thermometer, you can easily control the airflow and maintain a steady temperature inside the smoker. The portable and easy assembly feature makes it convenient for parties, parks, beaches, and backyards. With a large cooking surface and two cooking racks, this smoker can accommodate large cuts of meat or even hang large turkeys and chickens. The two access doors provide flexibility in checking the status of food and adding charcoal or wood without losing heat. The porcelain-enameled water pan adds smoky flavor to your meat by capturing smoker and moisture.

What We Like
Versatile
Portable
Large capacity
#TOP 6

GRILLBOSS 4 Tier Charcoal Smoker

GRILLBOSS
CBS24032M
Black
GRILLBOSS 4 Tier Charcoal Smoker Cover
Grill Boss 4 Tier Vertical Freestanding Charcoal Smoker Portable BBQ Grill with Temperature Gauge for Outdoors, 564 Square Inch Cooking Area, Black

The GRILLBOSS Charcoal Smoker is designed for versatile outdoor cooking with its innovative 4-tier system. You can easily prepare a variety of meats, thanks to the included chicken rack, rib rack, and hooks. The built-in temperature gauge allows you to monitor cooking temperatures precisely, ensuring your dishes come out just right. Plus, the smoker's removable middle ring lets you convert it into a portable grill, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. With easy access to add water during smoking and durable handles, this smoker simplifies your cooking experience.

What We Like
Versatile 4-tier design
Built-in temperature gauge
Portable and easy to use
Convenient water access
#TOP 7

Giantex Outdoor Smoker with Double Doors

GT3927-PO
Black
Giantex Outdoor Smoker with Double Doors Cover
Giantex Outdoor Smoker with Double Doors, 2 Detachable Grill Netting Smoking Racks, Charcoal Pan & Water Pan, 4 Air Vents, Thermometer, Vertical Charcoal Smoker for Barbecue Camping Backyard Grill

The Giantex Outdoor Smoker with Double Doors is a versatile charcoal smoker that combines smoking and roasting. It has a large cooking capacity with two detachable grill nettings and an easy-to-read thermometer on the door. The double door design makes it easy to check on the food while reducing contact between the charcoal and air, ensuring food flavor and safety. With four air vents, you can adjust the firepower and control the smoking effect. The temperature resistant iron structure is durable and easy to operate, making it an ideal choice for outdoor barbecue enthusiasts.

What We Like
Versatile charcoal smoker that combines smoking and roasting
Large cooking capacity with two detachable grill nettings
Double door design for easy access and added safety
#TOP 8

VIVOHOME 3-in-1 Vertical Charcoal Smoker

VH1410CA
Black
VIVOHOME 3-in-1 Vertical Charcoal Smoker Cover
VIVOHOME 3-in-1 Vertical Charcoal Smoker, BBQ Smoker Grill with Built-in Thermometer, Air Vent, and 2 Access Doors, Idea for Parties, Backyard, Barbecues

The VIVOHOME Charcoal Smoker is a versatile 3-in-1 vertical smoker and grill. Effortlessly control the temperature with the built-in thermometer and adjustable air vent for delicious smoked food. Its large cooking capacity with multiple chambers and hanging hooks allows for efficient cooking of various foods. The thoughtful design includes a sturdy body, water pans, and easy access doors. Assembly is easy, and maintenance is a breeze with included grilling tools for a hassle-free experience.

What We Like
Versatile 3-in-1 Functionality
Effortless Temperature Control
Large Cooking Capacity
#TOP 9

Char-Broil 16" Bullet Charcoal Smoker

18202075
Black
16''
Char-Broil 16" Bullet Charcoal Smoker Cover
Char-Broil Bullet Charcoal Smoker 16" - 18202075,Black

The Char-Broil 16" Bullet Charcoal Smoker offers 370 sq in cooking space across 2 porcelain-coated grates, with an innovative airflow control system that simplifies temperature regulation and numbered damper settings. Its porcelain-coated body and removable ash pan ensure lasting durability and easy cleanup, while chamber-lift handles, lid-mounted temperature gauge, and steel tube legs provide convenient access and height. This smoker is perfect for those who want to enjoy smoky and flavorful meats, vegetables, and more.

What We Like
Easy temperature regulation with numbered damper settings
Durable porcelain-coated body and easy-to-clean ash pan
Convenient chamber-lift handles, lid-mounted temperature gauge, and steel tube legs
#TOP 10

GasOne CSM-16 Vertical Smoker

Gas One
CSM-16
Black
GasOne CSM-16 Vertical Smoker Cover
GasOne Vertical Smoker with Thermometer – 16 Inch Heavy Duty Charcoal Smoker – Multipurpose Charcoal BBQ Grill Mini Smoker for Outdoor, Camping – Easy Assembly, 2 Access Doors Grill with Smoker

The GasOne Vertical Smoker is a versatile 16-inch charcoal smoker and BBQ grill. It features a dual-function design, allowing you to smoke or grill as needed. The heavy-duty construction ensures durability with a rust-resistant steel body. The built-in thermometer and adjustable air supply maintain optimal cooking temperatures, providing even heat distribution. With double access doors for easy monitoring and assembly, this smoker is lightweight and portable, ideal for outdoor cooking and camping adventures.

What We Like
Dual-function design
Heavy-duty construction
Accurate temperature control
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you use charcoal in vertical smoker?

A standalone vertical charcoal smoker is an upright device that features four core sections: The firebox: This is where you generate heat. The firebox is filled with coal; a standard 15-pound bag of charcoal can burn for upwards of 15 hours—more than enough time to smoke brisket.

2. Are vertical smokers any good?

Vertical smokers give you more rack space with a reduced overall footprint, making them ideal for a space-starved pitmaster. They also cook faster and can be reconfigured to fit a range of different foods. As you can see from our reviews, they also come in a range of fuel options.

3. Are charcoal smokers any good?

The success of the Smokey Mountain comes down to superior construction quality and ease of use at a price point almost anyone can afford. Bullet or water smokers like the WSM are easily the most popular type of charcoal smokers, due to their small footprint and ability to hold a steady temperature for hours.

4. How much charcoal do I need for vertical smoker?

Setting up a Vertical Water Smoker Place the metal charcoal pan inside the base and fill with about six to 10 pounds of charcoal. The more charcoal you use the longer the heat will last. Light the charcoal and let it burn uncovered until the coals are almost entirely white and the fire is producing a lot of heat.

Editor's Notes

During our charcoal vertical smoker research, we found 24 charcoal vertical smoker products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 37,121 customer reviews through our big data system to write the charcoal vertical smokers list. We found that most customers choose charcoal vertical smokers with an average price of $125.35.

The charcoal vertical smokers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of charcoal vertical smokers, including Dyna-Glo, BIG HORN OUTDOORS, Broil King, Cuisinart, Realcook. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bryan Hicks Avatar

Bryan Hicks is a professional gardener and a writer who lives in North Texas with his family and his dog. Bryan has spent more than half of his life surrounded by garden products. He has extensive experience in garden makeovers and maintenance and lawn care. His areas of expertise include outdoor decoration, gardening and garden design.