Ah, barbecue. The mere mention conjures up images of juicy meats, smoky flavors, and backyard gatherings. But what if you’re a barbecue enthusiast on a budget? There are fantastic smoker options available in the “Best BBQ Smokers Under $500” category.
This guide explores some of the most popular and well-regarded smokers that won’t break the bank. We’ll delve into the pros and cons of each type to help you find the perfect match for your smoking style and needs.
Best BBQ Smokers Under $500 – Our Recommendations
- Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker 18-Inch
- Pit Barrel Cooker
- Z Grills ZPG-450A 2020 Upgrade Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
- Char-Broil Vertical Electric Smoker
- Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker
- Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker
- Z Grills Blind Box Grills – Best Deal
Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker 18-Inch
The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker 18-Inch is an eternal favorite among barbecue enthusiasts searching for quality and affordability. This vertical charcoal smoker is priced at around $300 making it one of the best BBQ smokers under $500.
WSM’s simple, vertical design makes it approachable for beginners. With two cooking grates, there’s ample space to smoke a variety of foods, from succulent ribs to flavorful chickens. Seasoned also appreciate the grill for its ability to produce consistent temperatures and smoky flavors. 
Type: Charcoal
Price: $419
Reviews: 4.8 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pros
- Simple vertical design with ample space for various foods.
- Delivers consistent temperatures for perfectly smoked meats.
- Porcelain-enameled steel exterior ensures long life.
- Ideal for patios with limited space and easy to transport.
Cons
- Requires practice with airflow management for consistent results.
- Refueling charcoal during long cooking can be inconvenient.
- Water pans can boil dry and require monitoring or replacement.
- While it offers two grates, the 18-inch size may limit capacity for large gatherings.
Pit Barrel Cooker
The Pit Barrel Cooker (PBC) stands among the best BBQ smokers under $500 for its unique design and focus on simplicity. This vertical, hanging smoker offers a no-fuss approach to smoking, but does it deliver competition-worthy results?
The PBC’s biggest selling point is its ease of use. Unlike traditional smokers with multiple dampers, the PBC relies on a single adjustable vent at the bottom. This “set-and-forget” approach allows you to focus on prepping your food, not babysitting the smoker. Additionally, the hanging design maximizes space utilization, allowing you to smoke a significant amount of meat in one go.
The PBC boasts a heavy-gauge steel construction, ensuring durability for years to come. The simple design minimizes cleaning requirements, making post-smoking cleanup a breeze. 
Type: Charcoal
Price: $399
Reviews: 4.7⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pros
- Effortless Smoking for beginners
- Hanging design maximizes space
- Direct heat and airflow deliver a robust deliver a bold smoky flavor
- Heavy-gauge steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy Maintenance and simple cleaning requirements.
Cons
- Single vent design offers less precise temperature.
- The intense smoke might overpower some meats.
- It might not be suitable for smoking delicate requiring indirect heat.
Z Grills ZPG-450A 2020 Upgrade Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
Pellet grills are known for their ease of use, and the Z Grills ZPG-450A 2020 upgrade wood pellet grills are no exception. This grill smoker offers convenience and affordability, making them the best BBQ smokers under $500.
Unlike charcoal smokers that require constant attention, this smoker features a digital controller. Simply set your desired temperature, and the grill does the rest. Also, the grill comes with 450 square inches of cooking space, enough to cook a decent amount of food, perfect for small gatherings. 
Type: Pellet
Price: Around $399
Reviews: 4.4⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pros
- Easy to use and the digital controller allows for set-and-forget temperature control for hassle-free smoking.
- This 6-in-1 grill boasts functions like smoking, grilling, baking, roasting, and braising.
- The Z Grills ZPG-450A claims to maintain consistent heat within +/- 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cons
- Compared to traditional charcoal smokers, pellet grills may produce slightly less smoke flavor.
- The digital controller might not provide the level of fine-tuning desired by pro grill masters.
- Some users report concerns about the long-term durability.
- The warranty might be shorter than other competitors.
Char-Broil Analog Steel Electric Smoker
The Char-Broil Analog Steel Electric Smoker is a budget-friendly option for aspiring pitmasters searching for a hassle-free introduction to smoking. Priced well within the “Best BBQ Smokers Under $500” category, this electric smoker prioritizes simplicity and affordability.
Electric smokers are usually known for their user-friendly nature. This electric smoker features an analog dial for temperature control which enhances user control. The smoker’s porcelain-coated steel exterior is easy to clean and maintain.
It is also lightweight and portable, allowing you to take your barbecue skills on the go. If you’re someone who doesn’t grill frequently, this should be your go to best BBQ smokers under $500. 
Type: Electric
Price: Around $219
Reviews: 4.4⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pros
- Electric operation and analog temperature control make it easy to use.
- Compact and Portable.
- One of the most affordable and best BBQ smokers under $500.
Cons
- The analog dial might not offer the precise control desired by experienced smokers.
- Electric smokers generally produce less smoke flavor.
- The smoker might not be suitable for large gatherings due to its limited cooking space.
Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker
The Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker falls within the “Best BBQ Smokers Under $500” category, offering a combination of affordability and ample space for smoking enthusiasts. This vertical charcoal smoker boasts a unique design that prioritizes practicality and a user-friendly experience.
Its vertical design with multiple racks allows you to smoke a large amount of food at once making it one of the best BBQ smokers under $500. This smoker uses an offset firebox separately from the main cooking chamber. This allows you to control the heat and smoke indirectly. 
Type: Charcoal
Price: Around $200
Reviews: 4.0⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pros
- Its ample cooking space makes it ideal for smoking large quantities of food.
- The offset firebox allows for some control over heat and smoke compared to electric smokers in this price range.
- The powder-coated steel exterior ensures longevity and can withstand regular use.
Cons
- Maintaining consistent temperatures can be challenging for beginners.
- Refueling charcoal can disrupt the smoking process
- No built-in thermometer on the cooking chamber
Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker
If you want a smoker that’s easy to use and set-and-forget, then a Masterbuilt electric smoker is a great option. This 30-inch model has a large capacity and a digital controller that makes it easy to maintain consistent temperatures. You can find it for around $200.
The smoker boasts a generous 710 square inches of cooking space, allowing you to smoke a significant amount of food at once. Cleanup is also a breeze thanks to the removable drip pan and porcelain-coated interior that wipes down easily. 
Type: Electric
Price: $200
Reviews: 4.4⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pros
Easy to use
Spacious cooking area
Easy clean up
Cons
Less smoky flavour
Limited temperature control
Z Grills Blind Box Grills – Best Deal 
We all know how popular Z grills are among BBQ enthusiasts. If you’re on a budget and are looking for the best BBQ smokers under $500, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Z grills has announced an exciting Blind Box Grill deal where you spend only $399 but have a chance to win smokers worth $500 to $700.
When you purchase a Z Grills Blind Box, you’ll receive one of five high-quality Z Grills pellet smokers, each valued between $529 and $719. All the smokers boast top-of-the-line features like PID controllers for precise temperature control and durable construction for long-lasting performance. You’re guaranteed a smoker within the “Best BBQ Smokers Under $500” category, but the specific model remains a delightful mystery until it arrives at your doorstep!
Potential Smokers Hiding in the Box
So, what kind of smokers could be waiting for you in the Z Grills Blind Box? The potential options include:
- The Z Grills 550B
- The Z Grills 550B2
- The Z Grills 600D
- The Z Grills 600D3E
- The Z Grills Secret Model 10002B2E
So, if you’re ready to embrace the surprise and unlock a world of delicious smoked possibilities, the Z Grills Blind Box Grill might be the perfect choice for you.
Choosing Your Perfect Smoker
The best BBQ smoker under $500 for you depends on your priorities:
- Do you crave the bold, smoky flavor of charcoal or prioritize convenience?
- Are you a complete beginner or a seasoned grill master?
- How much space do you have, and how much food do you typically smoke?
By considering these questions and exploring the options mentioned above, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect smoker to elevate your backyard barbecue game without breaking the bank. So, fire up your smoker, grab your favorite meats, and get ready to create delicious smoked masterpieces.
FAQs
What’s the best charcoal smoker under $500?
For a more traditional charcoal smoker, consider the Char-Griller Grand Slam XD. It’s a sturdy offset model that imparts stellar smokiness and can handle large batches of food
Any recommendations for pellet smokers?
The Traeger Ironwood 650 is an excellent choice. It combines wood-fired flavor with easy temperature control and a spacious cooking area.
Looking for a budget-friendly option?
The Weber Original Kettle is a classic charcoal grill that won’t break the bank. It’s versatile and reliable for backyard BBQs.
What about beginners?
Beginners might appreciate the Weber 18″ Smokey Mountain. It’s user-friendly and delivers great results for smoking enthusiasts.
Is there a good electric smoker in this price range?
Yes! The Masterbuilt 30″ Electric Smoker is a solid choice. It’s easy to use and provides consistent results.
