Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly grilled steak, but with that deep, smoky flavor you usually only get from a big charcoal pit. Does that sound like the ultimate backyard barbecue dream? Many grill masters chase that perfect blend of convenience and authentic smoke flavor, but often get stuck in the middle ground.
Choosing the right gas grill with a built-in smoker box can feel overwhelming. You want the quick heat of gas, but you crave the rich taste of wood smoke. If you pick the wrong model, you end up with dry food or smoke that just won’t penetrate. It’s frustrating when technology promises ease but delivers mediocre results.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what features matter most in a gas grill smoker box. You will learn how to find a model that delivers delicious, smoky results every single time. Get ready to upgrade your grilling game from standard to sensational.
Top Gas Grill With Smoker Box Recommendations
- Gas & Charcoal Combo: The dual-fuel grill with an attached offset smoker and a side burner provides the authentic charcoal flavor, the convenience of gas grilling, the rich smoky flavor and the versatility of cooking sides or sauces, all in one tidy package
- 1020 Sq. In. Cooking Area: A total of 1020 sq. in. cooking area, including 666 sq. in. primary cooking area (333 sq. in. gas area & 333 sq. in. charcoal area), 157 sq. in. warming rack area and 197 sq. in. offset smoker area, holds up to 36 burgers simultaneously
- Offset Smoker: Used as either a traditional smoker or an extra charcoal grill, an attached offset smoker infuses meats with irresistible smoky flavor and provides optimal circulation of heat and smoke. A side door makes it a breeze to add charcoal and remove ashes
- Fast & Robust Heat: Featuring 2 stainless steel main burners (12,000 BTU each) and a side burner (10,000 BTU), this grill delivers 34,000 BTU robust power in total. Piezo ignition system makes it easier than ever to fire up the grill without the need for battery
- Height-adjustable Charcoal Pan: 3-level adjustable charcoal pan enhances heat regulation, allowing for versatile cooking styles like slow-cooking, searing and smoking. The max charcoal capacity of the charcoal grill and the offset smoker are 3.3 lb. and 1.5 lb
- COMBO SMOKER & GRILL: With a horizontal cooking chamber and a firebox on the side, the smoker is fueled by charcoal and flavored by hardwood splits & chunks, sold separately, to cook low and slow with indirect heat. The 3-burner gas grill is powered by liquid propane gas and runs on a 20-pound propane tank, not included. It has a 36,000 BTU rating, reaches cooking temperatures quickly, delivers high temps and maintains even heat.
- COOKING AREA: Smoke up to 2 pork shoulders and grill 12 burgers on the 750-square-inch primary grates. Grill up to 15 wings or 6 burgers on the 281-square-inch firebox grate.
- TOOL HOOKS: Three tool hooks are included to hang your tongs, spatula and other tools, freeing up space on your shelves.
- ASH PAN: A removable ash pan on the side of the firebox collects ash from the fire and provides easy access to clear out the ashes, making clean-up simple.
- SMOKESTACK & DAMPERS: Adjustable dampers on the firebox and smokestack regulate heat and smoke giving you maximum control and consistent results.
- ULTIMATE 3-IN-1 COOKING VERSATILITY; Transform your outdoor cooking with this unique propane gas grill featuring a robust 4+1 burner system, a heavy-duty cast iron griddle plate for savory pancakes or stir-fries, and dual enamel charcoal pans for authentic smoky BBQ flavors; Enjoy the flexibility to grill, griddle, or smoke, catering to every culinary whim; Note: Designed for Propane Gas only, NOT for Natural Gas
- SPACIOUS & ROBUST COOKING SURFACE; Boasting a generous 448 Sq. In. total cooking area, including a 340 Sq. In. primary cooking space (23.5" X 14.5") and a 108 Sq. In. warming rack (23" X 4.6"); Features premium cast iron cooking grates that retain heat exceptionally well for perfect searing and even cooking, ensuring delicious results every time you grill for family and friends
- PREMIUM DURABILITY & EFFORTLESS CLEANUP; Crafted with a double-layer stainless steel lid, providing superior heat retention and enhanced durability compared to traditional single-layer designs; Equipped with a convenient pull-out grease tray and integrated cup, featuring an arc design for smooth grease drainage, making post-grill cleanup quick and hassle-free
- POWERFUL & EFFICIENT HEATING PERFORMANCE; Experience consistent and high heat output with a total of 46,750 BTU from five high-quality stainless steel burners (4 x 9550 BTU straight tube burners + 1 x 8450 BTU round burner); Each burner distributes heat evenly, complemented by 800° high-temperature resistant enamel flame tamers to prevent flare-ups and ensure perfectly cooked food
- INTEGRATED CONVENIENCE & USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN; This outdoor cooking station comes fully loaded with thoughtful features including a stylish stainless steel control panel, built-in bottle opener, 3 utility hanging hooks, high-quality control knobs with heat-insulated anti-slip rubber rings, a precise thermometer, reliable safety ignition system, ample prepare space, and 2 durable 6-inch wheels for easy mobility
- Gas and charcoal combination grill with additional side burner for ultimate cooking versatility - Dual fuel grills, sometimes called combo grills or dual-function grills or multifuel grills, are a newer style of grill that combines the best of charcoal grilling along with the convenience of a gas grill in one
- 870 sq. in. of total cooking space - providing ample room for cooking large quantities of food
- Two stainless steel main burners - With two separate burners at your disposal, you have precise control over temperature zones, making it effortless to sear steaks on one side while slow-roasting tender ribs on the other side of the grill
- Powerful 24,000 BTU output on the gas side means you can get up to searing temperatures easily
- Easily dump your ashes and continue grilling with the convenient EasyDump Ash Pan. Spend less time cleaning, and more time grilling!
- VERSATILE SIDE BURNER : Our grill comes equipped with a side burner, providing extra cooking space for sauces and sides. Elevate your outdoor culinary experience with added versatility.
- RETRO EXTERIOR DESIGN : The rounded design featured throughout this new mesa grill minimizes the risk of bumps while infusing a blend of contemporary and retro aesthetics.
- STAINLESS STEEL BURNERS: Three primary burners, accompanied by one side burner, collectively generating 48,000 BTU, ensure robust heat and an exceptional grilling experience.
- LARGE COOKING AREA: The cooking area of our new mesa305 gas grill totals 570 square inches, comprising 405 square inches for cooking and 165 square inches for the warming rack. Its expansive cooking area lets you grill a 20-pound turkey, 30 burgers, and a medley of meats and vegetables simultaneously. Explore endless culinary possibilities with the optional premium grilling accessories.
- KNOB LIGHTS: Distinct knob lights indicate different grill statuses: white for off and red for high heat mode, enhancing clarity and intuitiveness.
- MATERIAL: Cast Iron construction vented to direct smoke towards food.
- SIZE: At 8 inches long, the Smoker box fits enough wood chips to give your meat real smoke flavor.
- FEATURE: Cast iron retains heat well and can withstand hotter grill temperatures.
- USE: Add wood chips and the lid automatically vents smoke the perfect addition to any gas grill
- RECOMMENDED: Designed to be used with any Gas or Electric Grill
- Kaluns Smoker Box For A Scrumptious Smokey Flavor Using Any Grill - Add delicious smokey flavor to your favorite piece of meat. Position our heavy-duty smoker box right underneath the grill grates for best results. l The holes around and on the lid of the box release tons of smoke within 10 minutes of the smoker box burning on the grill. Choose your favorite wood chip flavor,have it smoked up, and enjoy tasty smokey flavored Ribs, Chicken, Turkey
- Deluxe Non Warp Stainless Steel Smoker Box - Our high-quality Smoker box will never warp so confidently start smoking up your grill now. Its premium quality is of thick stainless steel material, non-rust and cleans easily. Its compact size fits any grill and has enough place for 6.35 ounces of wood chips. The Kaluns Smoker box is the Ideal BBQ gadget which will add smokey spice to your upcoming BBQ feast.
- Convenient Hinged Lid- What a delight. With this hinged-lid you can conveniently add and change your wood chips at any time.Just lift the lid and it will stay open giving you easy access to it. In the mood of having a new flavor for your next plate of Turkey? Simply switch the flavor of wood chips and have the exhilarating aroma fill the yard.
- Convenient Hinged Lid- What a delight. With this hinged-lid you can conveniently add and change your wood chips at any time.Just lift the lid and it will stay open giving you easy access to it. In the mood of having a new flavor for your next plate of Turkey? Simply switch the flavor of wood chips and have the exhilarating aroma fill the yard.
- FUSION FUEL: Simultaneous Direct and Indirect Cooking with Fusion Fuel | Provides the benefit of grilling with gas, smoking with pellets, or both all within the space of one stacked-design grill. | Gas assisted temperature control in cold-weather. | Model: 91025
- SPACIOUS GRILLING SURFACE: Use of entire, full size, grilling surface for both smoking and grilling. It’s the only grill with true indirect and direct cooking.
- TEMPERATURE: 180-700 degrees Fahrenheit. Large, bright LCD display for monitoring.
- INCLUDES: Three meat temperature probes | Storage box and under grill storage | Pellet hopper with 20 lb. capacity | Enamel coated grilling racks | Tank holder | Easy grease and ash clean-out system
- SIZE: 742 square inches of grilling and smoking space. | Overall Dimensions: 59 x 25.3 x 50.5 inches
Your Essential Guide to Buying a Gas Grill with a Smoker Box
Thinking about buying a gas grill that can also smoke your favorite foods? That’s a great idea! A gas grill with a built-in smoker box gives you the best of both worlds: quick, easy grilling and deep, smoky flavor. This guide will help you pick the perfect model.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, check these important features first. They make a big difference in how well your grill works.
Burner Quality and Power
- BTU Output: This measures how hot the grill gets. Look for at least 30,000 BTUs for good grilling heat. More burners usually mean better heat control across the cooking surface.
- Burner Material: Stainless steel burners last longer than cheaper metals. They resist rust and distribute heat evenly.
The Smoker Box Itself
- Material and Size: The box should be made of thick, heavy-gauge stainless steel. A thicker box holds heat better and won’t burn through quickly. Make sure the box is big enough to hold wood chips or chunks for a long smoke session.
- Placement and Access: Some smoker boxes sit directly over a burner. Others are designed to be placed inside the grill basin. Check how easy it is to add wood chips and clean out the ashes. Easy access means you will use the smoker feature more often.
Cooking Surface and Heat Control
- Grate Material: Cast iron grates hold heat very well, giving you great sear marks. Porcelain-coated grates are easier to clean.
- Lid Design: A heavy, well-insulated lid is crucial for smoking. It traps heat and smoke inside, which is necessary for low-and-slow cooking.
Important Materials That Matter
The materials used determine how long your grill lasts and how well it performs.
Stainless Steel vs. Porcelain-Coated Steel
- Stainless Steel (Best): High-quality stainless steel resists rust and handles high heat well. Look for 304-grade stainless steel for the main body if your budget allows.
- Porcelain-Coated Steel: This is common for the body and lid. It looks nice but the coating can chip over time, exposing the metal underneath to rust.
Grease Management
A good grease tray catches drippings easily. This prevents flare-ups during grilling and makes cleanup simple. Look for removable, dishwasher-safe trays.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all grills are built the same. Pay attention to these details.
Quality Boosters
- Insulation: Double-walled lids and fireboxes hold temperatures steady. This is vital when you are trying to maintain a low smoking temperature (like 225°F).
- Temperature Gauge: A built-in, accurate thermometer in the lid helps you monitor the internal temperature without opening the lid and losing heat.
Quality Reducers (Watch Outs)
- Thin Metal: If the metal panels feel flimsy when you press them, the grill will likely rust quickly and won’t hold heat well.
- Poor Seals: If there are large gaps where the lid meets the body, smoke and heat escape. This wastes fuel and makes smoking difficult.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use your new grill.
Grilling Focus
If you mostly want fast weeknight burgers, prioritize high BTUs and easy ignition. The smoker box is a bonus feature you might use occasionally.
Smoking Focus (Low and Slow)
If you want to smoke briskets or pork shoulders, you need excellent temperature control. You will rely heavily on the smoker box and the grill’s ability to maintain low, steady heat for many hours. A side burner can be useful for keeping sauces warm.
Assembly and Mobility
Check reviews for assembly difficulty. Also, look at the wheels. If you move your grill often, sturdy, locking casters are important.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Gas Grills with Smoker Boxes
Q: Do I need a separate smoker box?
A: No. A gas grill with a built-in smoker box lets you add wood chips directly over a low burner, infusing smoke flavor right into your gas-grilled food.
Q: How do I keep the wood chips from catching fire?
A: Soak wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before use. This makes them smolder rather than burst into flame immediately.
Q: Can I use wood chunks instead of chips?
A: Yes, wood chunks burn slower and provide a deeper smoke flavor, which works well for long smoking sessions.
Q: Is cleaning the smoker box hard?
A: It should not be hard. Most good designs allow you to remove the box or access the bottom easily to dump out the cold ashes after the grill cools down.
Q: Will the smoke flavor taste like gas?
A: No. If the grill is working correctly, the wood smoke flavor is strong, and you will not taste the propane or natural gas.
Q: What is the best temperature for smoking on a gas grill?
A: Most people aim for temperatures between 225°F and 275°F for classic barbecue like ribs or pulled pork.
Q: How do I control the temperature when smoking?
A: You only use one or two low burners under the smoker box. Keep the other burners off, and use the lid to trap the heat and smoke.
Q: Are these grills more expensive than standard gas grills?
A: Yes, they often cost a bit more because they include the specialized smoker box and sometimes have better lid insulation.
Q: Can I use this grill if I only have natural gas?
A: Some models are sold as convertible units, but you must check the specifications. Most are designed for propane tanks unless specifically labeled as natural gas ready.
Q: How often should I refill the wood chips?
A: This depends on the size of the box and the heat. Check the box every 45 to 60 minutes to ensure the wood is still smoldering and producing smoke.