Best Grill And Smoker of 2026
Finding a single appliance that excels at both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking is the holy grail for backyard chefs. We have analyzed specifications, aggregated owner reviews, and compared brand reliability to identify the best grill and smoker combos for 2026.
Quick answer
The Weber SmokeFire EX4 (Gen 2) is the best overall grill and smoker for 2026, offering true wood-fired flavor with precise digital controls. For a budget-friendly option that still delivers excellent results, the Pit Boss Austin XL is a top contender.
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- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
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Research updated June 2026.
Weber SmokeFire EX4 (Gen 2)
Combines the convenience of a pellet grill with the high heat searing capability of a gas grill.
| Product | Best For | Max Temp | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weber SmokeFire EX4 (Gen 2) | Overall Best | 600°F | 4.7/5 | High |
| Traeger Ironwood 885 | Premium Build | 500°F | 4.6/5 | Premium |
| Pit Boss Austin XL | Best Budget | 500°F | 4.5/5 | Low |
| Green Mountain Grills Daniel Boone | Best Value WiFi | 550°F | 4.5/5 | Mid |
| Camp Chef Woodwind 36 | Best Versatility | 450°F | 4.6/5 | Mid-High |
Weber SmokeFire EX4 (Gen 2)
Best OverallPros
- Excellent high-heat searing for a pellet grill
- Consistent temperature control for smoking
- Large cooking area with two grates
Cons
- Pellet hopper can be tricky to empty
- App connectivity can be inconsistent
The Weber SmokeFire EX4 (Gen 2) is a significant upgrade from the first generation, addressing many early reliability concerns. It uses a unique "flavorizer" bar system and a direct flame grilling zone, allowing it to reach 600°F for searing steaks, which is rare for a pellet grill. Owner reviews consistently praise its smoke flavor and ease of use for long cooks like brisket.
The 1,008 square inches of cooking space is generous, split between two levels. The Weber Connect app provides useful guidance for beginners. While the price point is high, the build quality and brand reliability make it a solid long-term investment for those who want one machine that does both jobs well.
Traeger Ironwood 885
Best Premium BuildPros
- Superior insulation and temperature stability
- Premium stainless steel construction
- Excellent D2 controller for precise smoking
Cons
- Maximum temperature is lower for searing
- Very expensive
The Traeger Ironwood 885 is a benchmark for build quality in the pellet grill market. Its fully insulated double-wall construction means it performs exceptionally well in cold weather, maintaining consistent smoking temperatures with very little pellet consumption. The D2 controller is highly accurate, and the WiFIRE app is one of the most reliable in the industry, allowing for remote monitoring and recipe control.
However, the Ironwood is primarily a smoker that can grill, not the other way around. Its maximum temperature of 500°F is sufficient for grilling burgers and chicken but will not deliver the same sear as the Weber SmokeFire. Owner reviews highlight its durability and the quality of the smoke flavor, making it ideal for dedicated smokers who occasionally grill.
Pit Boss Austin XL
Best BudgetPros
- Very affordable for the large cooking area
- Simple, reliable analog control
- Slide-plate for direct flame grilling
Cons
- Temperature control is less precise than digital models
- Build quality is not as robust as premium brands
The Pit Boss Austin XL is the best value proposition for anyone entering the world of pellet grills and smokers. It offers a massive 1,000 square inches of cooking space at a fraction of the cost of competitors. The simple dial control is easy to understand, and the innovative "P-Setting" adjustment allows users to fine-tune the pellet feed rate for better smoke output at low temperatures.
A key feature is the sliding "flame broiler" plate, which can be pulled open to expose the fire pot for direct flame grilling. This allows for searing, though it is not as controlled as the Weber system. Owner reviews note that temperature swings are more common than on pricier models, but for the price, the Austin XL is a capable and versatile performer for both smoking and grilling.
Green Mountain Grills Daniel Boone
Best Value WiFiPros
- Excellent WiFi app with great community features
- Can reach 550°F for decent grilling
- Lightweight and easy to move
Cons
- Smaller cooking area than competitors
- Build quality is adequate, not premium
The Green Mountain Grills (GMG) Daniel Boone is a fantastic choice for tech-savvy users who want a connected grilling experience without paying Traeger prices. Its WiFi app is widely regarded as one of the best, allowing for precise temperature monitoring, recipe downloads, and a unique "community" feature where users share their own cooking profiles. The grill can reach 550°F, which is hot enough for good searing on steaks and burgers.
The Daniel Boone is smaller and lighter than many other models, making it a good option for those with limited patio space or who need portability. Owner reviews are generally very positive about its temperature accuracy and smoke production. The main compromises are a smaller cooking area and a build that does not feel as solid as the Traeger or Weber offerings.
Camp Chef Woodwind 36
Best VersatilityPros
- Sidekick attachment for gas grilling, searing, or pizza
- Massive cooking area with four racks
- Easy ash cleanout system
Cons
- Max temp of 450°F is low for searing
- Sidekick is sold separately
The Camp Chef Woodwind 36 is the most versatile system on this list. While the main cooking chamber is a standard pellet smoker, its key differentiator is the optional "Sidekick" attachment. This propane-powered burner can be used for high-heat searing, boiling water, or even cooking with a cast iron griddle or pizza oven attachment. This effectively solves the low max temperature issue by giving you a dedicated searing station.
The Woodwind itself is a very capable smoker with a huge 1,236 square inches of cooking space across four racks. The ash cleanout system is one of the best in the industry, making maintenance simple. Owner reviews are highly positive about the smoke quality and the versatility the Sidekick provides. It is the best option for those who want a dedicated smoker but also need the ability to sear at high temperatures.
What to check before buying a grill and smoker
Choosing a 2-in-1 grill and smoker requires balancing several key factors. The most important is how you intend to use it. If you prioritize smoking brisket and ribs, a pellet grill with excellent temperature stability, like the Traeger Ironwood, is ideal. If you want to sear steaks regularly, look for models with a direct-flame option, such as the Weber SmokeFire or the Pit Boss Austin XL with its slide plate.
Consider the cooking area. Larger models offer more space for entertaining but consume more pellets and take up more patio space. WiFi connectivity is a valuable feature for monitoring long smokes from indoors, but it adds to the cost. Finally, check the build quality and warranty. A thicker steel gauge and a solid warranty from a reputable brand like Weber or Traeger indicate a longer-lasting investment.
Mistakes to avoid when buying a grill and smoker
A common mistake is assuming all pellet grills can sear effectively. Many models top out at 450-500°F, which is not hot enough for a proper crust on a steak. Always check the maximum temperature and look for features like a direct-flame grate or a separate searing station if searing is a priority.
Another error is underestimating the importance of the pellet hopper and ash management. A small hopper will need frequent refilling during long cooks. A difficult ash cleanout system can make maintenance a chore. Read owner reviews to understand the real-world experience of cleaning and refilling the specific model you are considering.
FAQs
Can you really grill and smoke on the same machine?
Yes, many pellet grills are designed to do both. They can maintain low temperatures (180-225°F) for smoking and higher temperatures (350-600°F) for grilling.
What is the best fuel for a grill and smoker combo?
Wood pellets are the most common fuel for these combos, offering convenience and authentic smoke flavor. Some models also use charcoal or gas with a smoker box.
Is a pellet grill better than a charcoal smoker?
Pellet grills are much easier to use and maintain consistent temperatures than charcoal smokers. However, some purists prefer the flavor from charcoal.
How much cooking space do I need?
For a family of 4, 500-700 square inches is sufficient. For entertaining, look for models with 800+ square inches.
Do I need a WiFi-enabled grill?
WiFi is not essential but is very convenient for monitoring and adjusting temperatures from your phone, especially during long overnight smokes.
What is the difference between a pellet grill and a gas grill?
A pellet grill burns compressed wood pellets for heat and smoke, while a gas grill uses propane or natural gas. Pellet grills offer superior smoke flavor.
Can I use a grill and smoker in the winter?
Yes, but you will use more fuel to maintain temperature. Insulated models like the Traeger Ironwood perform better in cold weather.
How long do wood pellets last?
A 20-pound bag of pellets can last 6-12 hours at smoking temperatures (225°F) or 3-5 hours at grilling temperatures (400°F+).
What is the best brand for a grill and smoker?
Weber and Traeger are the most reliable premium brands. Pit Boss and Green Mountain Grills offer great value for the price.
Is it hard to clean a pellet grill?
Cleaning involves emptying the ash and grease. Some models, like the Camp Chef Woodwind, have easy ash cleanout systems. It is generally easier than cleaning a charcoal grill.
Our verdict
For the best overall grill and smoker that excels at both tasks, the Weber SmokeFire EX4 (Gen 2) is our top pick due to its high heat searing and precise smoking. If you are on a budget, the Pit Boss Austin XL offers a massive cooking area and decent performance for a fraction of the price.