Top 4 Best Smokers of 2025: Elevate Your BBQ Game
As we head into the cooler months of 2025, there’s no better time to invest in a smoker that can transform your backyard into a low-and-slow paradise. Whether you’re a weekend warrior firing up brisket for the family or a pitmaster aiming for competition-level results, the right smoker makes all the difference. With advancements in pellet tech, smart controls, and durable builds, this year’s models stand out for their ease of use, flavor delivery, and value.
We scoured expert reviews from sites like Serious Eats, AmazingRibs.com, and BBQGuys, plus user feedback from Amazon and Reddit, to narrow down the top 4 smokers. These picks balance performance, portability, and price, covering electric, charcoal, pellet, and offset styles. Prices are approximate as of November 2025 and may vary by retailer.
1. Traeger Ironwood 885 Pellet Smoker – Best Overall
The Traeger Ironwood 885 reigns supreme for its seamless blend of tech and tradition. This WiFi-enabled pellet grill/smoker hits 180°F to 500°F with app-controlled precision, letting you monitor and adjust from your phone. Its 885-square-inch cooking space fits 9 chickens or a 20-lb turkey, and the Super Smoke mode cranks out that authentic wood-fired taste.
Pros:
- Intuitive touchscreen and app for set-it-and-forget-it convenience.
- Downdraft exhaust for even smoke distribution and less flare-ups.
- Versatile for smoking, grilling, roasting, and baking.
Cons:
- Pellets add to ongoing costs (about $20 for 20 lbs).
- Heavier at 149 lbs, so not ideal for frequent movers.
Price: $1,300
Best For: Tech-savvy beginners to pros who want reliability without babysitting.
2. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 – Best Charcoal Smoker
If you crave that classic charcoal flavor with modern ease, the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 is a game-changer. Its gravity-fed charcoal hopper holds 16 lbs for up to 10 hours of burn time, maintaining steady temps from 225°F to 700°F. Digital controls and a foldable shelf make it user-friendly, while the 1,050-square-inch space handles large crowds.
Pros:
- Fast heat-up (under 15 minutes) and app connectivity for remote tweaks.
- Built-in meat probes and WiFi ensure perfect pulls every time.
- Sturdy stainless steel build resists rust in humid climates.
Cons:
- Charcoal refills required, though less frequent than traditional grills.
- Assembly can take 1-2 hours out of the box.
Price: $850
Best For: Purists who love charcoal’s depth but hate constant tending.
3. Kamado Joe Classic III – Best Ceramic Smoker
For unmatched heat retention and flavor, the Kamado Joe Classic III ceramic smoker is a ceramic masterpiece. Shaped like a traditional Japanese kamado, it uses lump charcoal to lock in moisture and smoke, excelling at everything from ribs to pizza. The 18-inch model offers 250 square inches, expandable with accessories, and hits 225°F to 750°F effortlessly.
Pros:
- Superior insulation for fuel efficiency (one load lasts 18+ hours).
- Air Lift hinge and SloRoller grate for easy access and smoke control.
- Lifetime warranty on the ceramic body.
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for temp management.
- Premium price for the size.
Price: $1,500
Best For: Serious enthusiasts seeking heirloom-quality durability and versatility.
4. Pit Boss 3-Series Analog Electric Smoker – Best Budget Pick
Don’t let the price fool you—the Pit Boss 3-Series delivers pro-level smoking on a dime. This 684-square-inch electric model uses wood chips for authentic flavor without the hassle of fire management, dialing in 100°F to 325°F via a simple dial. It’s compact at 30 inches tall, perfect for apartments or small patios.
Pros:
- Affordable entry point with easy cleanup (removable drip tray).
- Consistent temps and large viewing window to check progress.
- Lightweight (25 lbs) for portability.
Cons:
- No smart features; fully analog operation.
- Smaller capacity limits big batches.
Price: $200
Best For: Newbies or space-conscious cooks testing the waters.
Final Thoughts: Smoke On
In 2025, the smoking scene is hotter than ever, thanks to smarter controls and eco-friendly materials. The Traeger Ironwood 885 takes the crown for its all-around excellence, but your pick depends on fuel preference and budget—charcoal for flavor die-hards, pellets for ease, ceramics for longevity, or electric for simplicity. Whichever you choose, pair it with quality wood (hickory for pork, mesquite for beef) and a good thermometer for foolproof results.
Ready to fire up? Check retailers like Home Depot or Amazon for deals, and start with a simple recipe like smoked salmon to break it in. What’s your go-to smoke? Drop it in the comments!
