Best charcoal smokers for low and slow

In its favour

• A tall, narrow 37 x 37 cm footprint fits a corner of a small patio.
• Two grids give 286 sq in in total for ribs on one level and a chicken on the other.
• A cover is included in the box, which helps through damp UK winters.

Good to know

• The 14.5 in size is too small for a whole brisket or several racks of ribs at once.
• The listing gives little detail on vents, water pan or fuel door.

In its favour

• The 1,100 sq in total cooking space is the largest of the smokers in this guide.
• The dedicated firebox supports true offset smoking or direct grilling, with an ash pan.
• Side, front and bottom shelves keep tools, trays and wood within reach.

Good to know

• At 163.7 cm wide and 43.1 kg it needs a large, level patio.
• Offset smokers need regular fire tending to hold a steady temperature.

In its favour

• A char ring and diffuser plate turn the kettle into a smoker without extra purchases.
• A hinged lid stays attached, so checking the food is a one-handed job.
• Weber lists 3-in-1 use for grilling, roasting and smoking.

Good to know

• A kettle holds less meat on a smoke than a bullet stack or offset chamber.
• The listing is short and does not describe vents or ash handling.

In its favour

• A hinged lid stays attached, so there is nowhere awkward to put it down.
• A 360° air intake and smokestack give control for both high heat and low and slow.
• The listing states a two year warranty on all parts.

Good to know

• At 29.5 kg it is much heavier than a standard kettle.
• The 382 sq in grate is a little smaller than a 57 cm Weber kettle.

In its favour

• 811 sq in in total across the main grates, warming rack and offset box.
• A two-level adjustable charcoal pan helps control heat in the main chamber.
• Front and side tables plus S hooks give prep space and tool storage.

Good to know

• The charcoal pan holds up to 4.4 lb (about 2 kg), so long cooks need refuelling.
• The listing does not describe the dampers in detail.

In its favour

• A side door on the firebox makes adding charcoal and clearing ash easy mid-cook.
• The offset box is firmly attached for good heat and smoke circulation, says the maker.
• A lid-mounted thermometer gauge shows chamber temperature.

Good to know

• The charcoal pan holds up to 4.4 lb, so plan to top up on longer smokes.
• Its layout is almost the same as the CC1830W, so compare the tables and finish.