Good news! With a budget of $1000, you’ve got a lot of great choices when it comes to smokers. Yes, you can spend more. But, for $1000, you’re looking at a high quality build, a larger size, and even, extra nice to have features you simply won’t get in cheaper ranges.
But, with lots of options comes a lot of research. So, before you get yourself confused over what’s actually worth it and what’s not, here’s your shortlist.
We’ve taken on your search for the best smoker under 1000 and put together this list of our top picks.
Here you’ll find all different types of smokers that fit your budget, some even come in way under it. If you’re not sure what type of smoker you’d like, read our guide on the best type of smoker. Or, just choose what you like the look of from this list. The pros and cons are listed below!
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Table of Contents
Camp Chef Woodwind 24 Pellet Grill with Sear Box - Best Pellet
Does the convenience of set and forget smoking sound good to you? Pellet smokers aren’t just great because they don’t need babysitting, the steady temperature means reliably consistent results every single time. And, if great results without much effort appeals as much as the brisket you’re about to cook on it, the Camp Chef Woodwind 24 Pellet Grill will do just that.
While most high-quality pellet smokers are pretty expensive, the Camp Chef Woodwind 24 with Sear Box packs in a whole heap of features to it’s very reasonable price.
From stainless steel lids, to WiFi, a precise PID controller, and, an extra large pellet hopper, the Woodwind 24 has all the must-have’s plus more.
You can set the temperature and smoke levels separately for more control over the flavor. There’s two meat probes for accurate feedback on how done your meat is. The patented Ash Cleanout System is next to none. And, you can even put the grill grates in your dishwasher!
But, what really sets the Camp Chef Woodwind apart from other pellet smokers is that you can get a side sear box which is pretty much a gas grill. If you’ve used a pellet smoker before, you’ll know they say you can grill on them. But, the lack of indirect heat and max temperature of about 500°F just isn’t the same as a really hot open flame.
So, the add-on sear box solves that problem by giving you the space to gas grill on the one barbecue. It does cost a little extra but still fits in under the $1000 budget. A steal if you ask me! And, a great solution for a single barbecue that can actually do it all.
Specs for the Camp Chef Woodwind 24 Pellet Grill with Sear Box
Barbecue material: Stainless steel
Grate material: Enamel-coated steel lower rack, nickel plated upper rack, enamel-coated cast iron sear rack
Cooking capacity: 429 sq. in. lower rack, 382 sq. in. upper rack, 184 sq. in. sear rack
Pellet hopper capacity: 22lbs
Heat Range: 160°F – 500°F in smoking box, up to 700°F in sear box
Fuel type: Wood pellet
Model: PG24SGWWSS1
Assembled size (in): 42(H)
Weight: 150lbs
Warranty: 3 years
Pros of the Camp Chef Woodwind 24 Pellet Grill with Sear Box:
- Pellet smokers are the easiest way to smoke and get consistently good results
- Versatile barbecue that can smoke, roast, bake, grill and sear (thanks to the sear box add-on)
- Large cooking capacity is more than enough for most families, even when entertaining
- Stainless steel body is rust-resistant and durable
- Extra large hopper gives even longer cook times without having to add fuel
- Clear pellet hopper window shows how full it is
- Comes with 2 meat probes that plug into the controller so you can see if your meat is ready without opening the lid
- Easy to clean
Cons of the Camp Chef Woodwind 24 Pellet Grill with Sear Box:
- Build isn’t as solid as more expensive pellet smokers like Traeger
Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker - Best Charcoal
A top-rated smoker choice that’s WELL under the $1000 mark is the bestselling Weber Smokey Mountain.
It’s well-made, yet basic, and, simple to use, but, can turn out some competition-worthy results that boast that truly authentic, charcoal smoked flavor.
Made from the same durable, porcelain-enameled shell as Weber’s famous kettle barbecues, the Smokey Mountain Cooker’s elongated shape gives you max space without the huge footprint. Inside, you’ll find two vertically stacked cooking grates, set over a water pan which keeps the meat moist while it cooks evenly and efficiently.
The temperature is really easy to keep steady thanks to the high-quality dampers. And, the removable fuel door means you can actually add more fuel and wood without having to move the meat and disrupt what’s cooking above.
Available in 3 sizes from the small and very portable 14″, to the moderate 18″ and monster 22″, there’s a WSM to suit everyone. You don’t need to be experienced either. The Weber Smokey Mountain is an equally great choice for anyone from beginner to those with a heap of experience.
And, if the lack of technology has you unsure, grab a Weber iGrill 2. This set of meat probes that links to your smart phone for real-time updates on the progress of your cook.
Specs for the Weber Smokey Mountain Charcoal Cooker 22"
Fuel type: Charocal
Barbecue material: Porcelain-enameled steel
Grate material: Plated steel
Cooking capacity: 726 sq. in.
Model: 731001
Dimensions: 48.5(H) x 23(W) x 24(D)
Weight: 68lbs
Warranty: 10 years on bowl and lid, 5 years on plastics and cleaning system, 2 years on remaining parts
Pros of the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker:
- High-quality build, backed by the decades of experience of industry leader, Weber
- Easy to use, vertical design
- Competition-quality
- Removeable fuel door lets you add fuel and wood without moving all your meat
- Easy to control the temperature thanks to high-quality dampers
- Available in 3 different sizes depending on your needs
- Can be portable
- Compatible with the iGrill 2 for real-time updates sent straight to your phone
Cons of the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker:
- There’s no hook to hang the lid while you’re getting the meat on and off, so, you’ll need to find somewhere safe to set it down hot
- Expect some smoke leakage around the door. You can seal it better with a gasket. But, in our opinion, it isn’t necessary
Oklahoma Joe Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker - Best Offset
If traditional stick smoking is more your thing, the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse gives you a solid body and large capacity to smoke away to your hearts content.
Set up as a reverse flow smoker, the Longhorn Reverse has an extra baffle plate that pushes smoke along the bottom of the cooking chamber, feeding it back past your food for more even heat and smoke distribution. This reduces the typical hot spot near the firepit, making it easier to cook a whole lot of meat without having to rotate it.
But, you can set the Longhorn Reverse up as a normal offset too. Simply whip out the baffle plates and move the smoke stack to the second port for when you want that slight temperature variance to say, cook different types of meat, or, get lunch ready faster than the rest of your low and slow.
In the firebox, you can actually grill too. Here, there’s 309 square inches for direct flame cooking, on top of the 751 square inches of smoking space in the main chamber.
Want to grill for your local sports team? Throw the extra grates in then fill the cooking chamber with charcoal and you’ve got a giant charcoal grill.
The Longhorn Reverse gives you options! Wrapped up in heavy-gauge, all-steel construction that’s strong enough to withstand regular use for years to come.
Specs for the Oklahoma Joe Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker
Barbecue material: Painted 2.5mm steel
Grate material: Porcelain-coated wire
Fuel type: Charcoal or wood
Primary cooking capacity: 751 sq in
Secondary cooking capacity: 309 sq in
Total cooking capacity: 1060 sq in
Model: 17202053
Assembly required: Yes
Assembled size (in): 55.5(H) x 64.25(W) x 35.5(D)
Weight: 226lbs
Warranty: 2 years
Pros of the Oklahoma Joe Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker:
- Reverse flow creates more even heat and smoke distribution
- Multiple dampers make it easy to control the heat
- Large cooking capacity
- Bonus grill setup in the firebox
- Cooking chamber also converts to a large charcoal grill
- Heavy-duty steel that’s strong enough to withstand high heat without warping
- Porcelain-coated cooking grates are rust-resistant and easy to clean
- Includes a stainless steel fuel basket to improve fuel efficiency
- Large ash door makes emptying easy
Cons of the Oklahoma Joe Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker:
- Leaks some smoke. It shouldn’t affect performance much. But, if it bothers you, you can add gasket around the doors and high-heat silicone between the firebox and cooking chamber.
Kamado Joe Classic I - Best Kamado
In the kamado category, coming in hot, under the $1000 mark is the high-quality, great value Kamado Joe Classic I.
Yes, it’s their entry-level model. But, entry-level for Kamado Joe doesn’t mean poor-quality. Instead, you get the same thick sided ceramic shell, with a good capacity stainless steel grates, bonus Divide & Conquer cooking system, cast iron top vent, slide out ash drawer, and, unbeatable 5 piece firebox design.
Kamado Joe is the clear winner in the kamado market simply because of the innovation they put into their designs to improve functionality and durability. For example, the 5 piece firebox design means that the ceramic won’t crack from the high heat of holding the fire. Divide & Conquer transforms the cooking space into multi-purpose, multi-level grates that can be set up for both direct and indirect heat at the same time. And, their patented slide out ash draw makes it possible and easy to empty ash from the egg mid-cook.
It’s strong, it’s results are superb, and, it’s an ideal under $1000 option for anyone who wants to be able to grill as well as smoke.
There’s also a heap of different add-ons you can get for the Classic I. From the Joe-Tisserie, ideal for poultry, to the Do-Joe pizza cooker, and, the iKAMAND smart controller, you can make this kamado a complete outdoor cooking solution.
Specs for the Kamado Joe Classic I 18"
Barbecue material: Glazed ceramic
Grate material: 304 stainless steel
Cooking capacity: 245 sq. in. in basic setup
Fuel type: Charcoal
Heat Range: 225°F – 750°F
Model: KJ23RH
Dimensions: 46.5″ W x 48″ H x 28″ D
Weight: 188lbs
Warranty: Lifetime on ceramics, 5 years on metal parts, 3 years on heat deflector and pizza stone, 1 year on thermometer and gasket
Pros of the Kamado Joe Classic I:
- Strong, sturdy ceramic shell that’s exceptionally good at holding heat for great fuel efficiency
- Rust-resistant stainless steel grates
- Easy temperature control through the Kontrol Tower top vent
- Divide & Conquer cooking system gives you the flexibility to cook over direct and indirect heat at the same time
- Suitable for both grilling and smoking. And, does a great job of both
- 5 piece firebox design reduces likelihood of it cracking from high heat
- Patented slide out ash drawer makes it easy to clear out ash mid-cook
- Excellent warranty
Cons of the Kamado Joe Classic I:
- Unlike the Classic II and III, the Classic I doesn’t have an Air Lift Hinge, so, the lid is quite heavy to move
- Smaller capacity than some other smoker options recommended in this article
Masterbuilt MES 130B 30" - Best Electric
If you’re keen on the simplicity of electric smoking, good news is, you can pretty much choose any electric smoker and it’ll come in under the $1000 budget.
But, if you want something that’s reliable, easy to use, and, can hold a lot of meat, the Masterbuilt 130B is just that.
It only does low and slow! But, if you’re after a dedicated smoker, the 130B does the job well. The thermostat control is pretty spot on, and, the 800 watt heating element is powerful enough to heat the space without struggling.
On it’s 4 racks, you’ll be able to do 4 pork butts, 4 racks of ribs, or 2 turkeys with 2 of the grates removed. Below there’s a water tray to keep the meat moist, and, the wood chip tray to generate smoke. But, what we really love about the Masterbuilt’s is their patented side wood chip loading system. Using this, you can add more wood chips without having to open the main smoker door, disrupting the heat inside.
Other than that, the Masterbuilt 130B is pretty simple and straightforward. It won’t last as long as some of the more expensive options on this list. But, with proper care, you can easily get a decent number of years out of it. Plus, for the price, it’s not such a worry anyway!
Specs for the Masterbuilt MES 130B
Fuel type: Analog electric
Wattage: 800 watts
Barbecue material: Steel
Grate material: Chrome-coated wire
Cooking capacity: 711 sq. in.
Price guide: $
Model: MB20071117
Dimensions: 20″ W x 33″ H x 19″ D
Weight: 46lbs
Warranty: 1 year
Pros of the Masterbuilt 130B Digital Electric Smoker:
- Large cooking capacity split over 4 removable racks
- Appropriately powered with a sizeable 800 watt heating element
- Simple controller with on and off switches, plus a timer
- Does a good job of regulating the temperature in normal weather conditions
- Side loading wood chip port means you can add more wood without letting the heat out of the cooking chamber
- Inexpensive
- Easy to use
Cons of the Masterbuilt 130B Digital Electric Smoker:
- No insulation so, the unit will struggle to maintain temperature in cooler or windier conditions
- Won’t make as much smoke as other types of smokers
- Digital components are more prone to breakage, compared to more manual-style smokers
Camp Chef XXL WiFi Vertical Pellet Smoker - Best XL
Big appetite? Or, got a huge crowd to feed? The Camp Chef XXL WiFi Vertical Pellet Smoker well beats the rest! With a huge 2,408 square inches of cooking space, spread over 4 cooking grates, 3 jerky racks and 12 hanging hooks (all included), this smoker can handle the whole lot. And, it does an exceptional job of it.
In fact, the Camp Chef XXL Vertical is one of our favorite smokers of all time.
Thanks to the updated PID controller, it maintains your target temperature within a few degrees. And, consistent temperature means consistent results that are easily repeatable each and every time, because, no one wants to struggle to repeat last weekends success when you finally decide to invite a crowd over.
But, what’s also so great about Camp Chef is that you can set the smoke level between 1 and 10, independently of the temperature. This means you can create a stronger or more subtle smoked flavor depending on your meat and your taste preferences.
With 2 meat probes included plus WiFi capability, after the meat’s in, you don’t even need to go back outside.
The Grease Management System makes cleaning up a breeze. And, it comes with it’s own cover. It’s really such good value on a huge dedicated smoker that does a great job of anything you can dream of cooking.
Read our full review of the Camp Chef XXL WiFi Pellet Smoker here.
Specs for the Camp Chef XXL Vertical Pellet Smoker
Barbecue material: Powder-coated steel
Grate material: Unspecified
Cooking capacity: 2,408 sq. in.
Pellet hopper capacity: 18lbs
Temperature range: 150-350°F
Fuel type: Pellets
Model: PGVXXLC
Dimensions: 55(H) x 24(W) x 15.5(D)
Weight: 145lbs
Warranty: 3 years
Pros of the Camp Chef XXL WiFi Vertical Pellet Smoker:
- Extra large cooking capacity that doesn’t take up the whole backyard thanks to it’s vertical design
- Precise PID temperature controller
- Separate smoke level setting for more control over flavor
- Also comes with jerky racks and hanging hooks for flexibility
- WiFi enabled so you can control it and monitor progress from anywhere in range
- Comes with 2 meat probes and a cover
- Grease management system
Cons of the Camp Chef XXL WiFi Vertical Pellet Smoker:
- It will leak a bit of smoke. You can seal with self-sticking gasket. Or, just leave it. It won’t affect performance much
- Not suitable for grilling – smoker only
Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24” - Best Propane
For a great propane smoker, we’re again going to recommend Camp Chef. But, this time it’s the Smoke Vault 24″ Propane Smoker.
There’s matchless snap ignition so it’s easy to get going, a simple heat control gauge that lets you dial it anywhere between 160-350°F, and, 3 damper valves so you can further hone in temperature and smoke levels.
Inside, you’ve got 600 square inches of cooking space split over 2 grates, plus, a 300 square inch jerky tray. The wood chip tray and water pan are both made from heavy-gauge steel giving them the durability you need here.
But, what’s also unique about the Smoke Vault is that you can convert it to run off natural gas as well. Simply grab the conversion kit and away you go. It’s one of the only units on the market that gives you that sort of functionality.
Regardless of whether you power it off of natural gas or propane, the Camp Chef 24″ Smoke Vault is a great value for money smoker that’s almost set and forget once you get it going. And, it’ll last through a lot of years of backyard bashes.
Specs for the Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24" Gas Smoker
Fuel type: Propane gas or natural gas (with optional conversion kit)
Barbecue material: Steel
Grate material: Nickel-plated wire
Cooking capacity: 600 sq. in. regular racks, 300 sq. in. jerky tray
Number of burners: 1
Total burner BTU-per-hour-input: 18,000
Model: SMV24S
Assembled size (in): 30(H) x 24(W) x 16(D)
Weight: 75lbs
Warranty: 1 year
Pros of the Camp Chef 24″ Smoke Vault:
- Easy start-up with snap ignition
- Triple damper gives better control of heat and smoke levels
- Works with propane gas, or, can be converted to use natural gas
- Large cooking capacity
- Includes a jerky rack that’s also great for fish and vegetables
- Heavy-gauge wood and water trays
- Space to add 2 extra racks if required
- Portable
Cons of the Camp Chef 24″ Smoke Vault:
- It does leak some smoke around the edge of the door. You can seal it with a gasket but it isn’t necessary
- Dedicated smoker only – no grilling
Kate Brown, the founder and voice behind Burning Brisket, is not your typical pitmaster or restaurateur. Her expertise in barbecue grew from a humble desire to cook exceptional meals for her family. From overcoming burnt brisket mishaps to establishing her boutique cattle ranch, Kate shares her passion to help 'ordinary' individuals cook extraordinary barbecue, believing that simplicity often yields the best flavors. Kate is commited to making great barbecue accessible to all with the right resources and some tasty practice.
