Grills & Outdoor Cooking

The Best Outdoor Fryers & Smokers

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Our picks are based on Amazon bestseller rankings, verified customer ratings, and product availability. We update our recommendations regularly to ensure accuracy.

Outdoor Fryers Smokers offer a versatile solution for expanding culinary capabilities beyond traditional grilling, enabling users to achieve authentic smoky flavors, crispy fried textures, and more, all outdoors. These units are ideal for backyard entertaining, camping, or simply enhancing everyday meals with diverse cooking methods. Products were evaluated based on functionality, capacity, smart features, cooking technology, user reviews, and feature analysis.

Best Overall
Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill Built-In Thermometer,7-in-1 Master Grill,BBQ Smoker,& Outdoor Air Fryer Plus Bake,Roast,Dehydrate & Broil,Woodfire Technology,Weather-Resistant,Grey XL

Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill Built-In Thermometer,7-in-1 Master Grill,BBQ Smoker,& Outdoor Air Fryer Plus Bake,Roast,Dehydrate & Broil,Woodfire Technology,Weather-Resistant,Grey XL

$549.99

Offers 7-in-1 versatility including grilling, smoking, and air frying, with XL capacity and a built-in thermometer for comprehensive outdoor cooking.

View on Amazon
Best Budget
Charbroil The Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer | Outdoor Air Fryer | Propane Cooker, Black - 24102165

Charbroil The Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer | Outdoor Air Fryer | Propane Cooker, Black - 24102165

$139.99

A specialized oil-less turkey fryer providing a distinct outdoor frying capability without the complexity or multi-functionality of other units.

View on Amazon
Best Premium
Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Outdoor Grill & Smoker, Bluetooth, App Enabled, 7-in-1 Master Grill, BBQ Smoker, Outdoor Air Fryer, Woodfire Technology, 2 Built-In Thermometers, Black/Blue

Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Outdoor Grill & Smoker, Bluetooth, App Enabled, 7-in-1 Master Grill, BBQ Smoker, Outdoor Air Fryer, Woodfire Technology, 2 Built-In Thermometers, Black/Blue

$499.99

Combines extensive 7-in-1 functionality with XL capacity, Bluetooth connectivity, app control, and dual built-in thermometers for ultimate precision.

View on Amazon
No. 1
Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill & Smoker, 6-in-1, Air Fry, Bake, Broil, OG321
  • MASTER GRILL, BBQ SMOKER, & AIR FRYER: All in one with 100% real smoky flavor.
  • ELECTRIC MASTER GRILL: Get all the performance of a full-size propane grill* with the same char and searing, with 1760 Watts of fully electric power. *compared to a Weber spirit
  • FOOLPROOF BBQ SMOKER: Create authentic BBQ bark and flavor fast and easy with just 1/2 cup of pellets.
  • OUTDOOR AIR FRYER: Add smoky flavor to your air fried favorites and cook all your side dishes outdoors.
  • NINJA WOODFIRE TECHNOLOGY: Powered by electricity, flavored by real burning wood pellets. Create rich smoky flavor you can see and taste with any cook function. From meat lovers to veggie enthusiasts, there's something for everyone.
  • UNMATCHED VERSATILITY: Perfect for individuals, couples, or family get-togethers, enjoy grilling, baking, roasting, and smoking, all in one appliance.
  • WEATHER RESISTANT: Reliable for regular use, this robust, weather-resistant build suits outdoor spaces, small backyards, or balconies, ensuring year-round outdoor cooking, come rain or shine. *we recommend storing with the Ninja Woodfire Grill Cover
  • COOK FOR A CROWD: Grill 6 steaks or 30 hot dogs, air fry up to 3 lbs. of wings, or BBQ smoke a 9-lb whole brisket.
  • SMALL SPACE FRIENDLY: Ideal for homes with limited outdoor space, this grill's no open flame or flammable fuels design allows for it to be a great solution for balconies and patios.
  • WHAT'S INCLUDED: 141-sq-in. nonstick grill grate, crisper basket, pellet scoop, Ninja Woodfire Pellets All-Purpose Blend Starter Pack, & Quick Start Guide with inspiration recipes.
No. 2
Ninja OG701 Woodfire Outdoor Grill & Smoker, 7-in-1 Master Grill, BBQ Smoker, Air Fryer plus Bake, Roast...
  • MASTER GRILL, BBQ SMOKER, & AIR FRYER: All in one with 100% real smoky flavor..Voltage: ‎120 volts | MASTER GRILL: Get all the performance of a full-size propane grill with the same char and searing.
  • FOOLPROOF BBQ SMOKER: Create authentic BBQ bark and flavor fast and easy with just 1/2 cup of pellets. | OUTDOOR AIR FRYER: Add smoky flavor to your air fried favorites and cook all your side dishes outdoors.
  • NINJA WOODFIRE TECHNOLOGY: Powered by electricity, flavored by real burning wood pellets. Create rich smoky flavor you can see and taste with any cook function. | EXCLUSIVE NINJA WOODFIRE PELLETS: Comes with 2 blends of 100% real hardwood Ninja Woodfire...
  • WEATHER-RESISTANT: Cook and store outdoors year-round. 1760-WATT ELECTRIC POWER: No charcoal, propane, or flareups. Balcony & apartment friendly. | COOK FOR A CROWD: Grill 6 steaks or 30 hot dogs, air fry up to 3 lbs of wings, or BBQ smoke a 9-lb whole...
  • WHAT'S INCLUDED: 141-sq-in. nonstick grill grate, crisper basket, pellet scoop, Ninja Woodfire Pellets Robust Blend and All-Purpose Blend Starter Packs, & Quick Start Guide with 15 recipes.
No. 3
Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill & Smoker, 7-in-1, Air Fryer, Broil, Grey OG701
  • MASTER GRILL, BBQ SMOKER, & AIR FRYER: All in one with 100% real smoky flavor..Voltage: ‎120 volts
  • MASTER GRILL: Get all the performance of a full-size propane grill with the same char and searing.
  • FOOLPROOF BBQ SMOKER: Create authentic BBQ bark and flavor fast and easy with just 1/2 cup of pellets.
  • OUTDOOR AIR FRYER: Add smoky flavor to your air fried favorites and cook all your side dishes outdoors.
  • NINJA WOODFIRE TECHNOLOGY: Powered by electricity, flavored by real burning wood pellets. Create rich smoky flavor you can see and taste with any cook function.
  • EXCLUSIVE NINJA WOODFIRE PELLETS: Comes with 2 blends of 100% real hardwood Ninja Woodfire Pellets that pair great with anything you make. Used for flavor, not fuel, so you only need 1/2 cup.
  • WEATHER-RESISTANT: Cook and store outdoors year-round.
  • 1760-WATT ELECTRIC POWER: No charcoal, propane, or flareups. Balcony & apartment friendly.
  • COOK FOR A CROWD: Grill 6 steaks or 30 hot dogs, air fry up to 3 lbs of wings, or BBQ smoke a 9-lb whole brisket.
  • WHAT'S INCLUDED: 141-sq-in. nonstick grill grate, crisper basket, pellet scoop, Ninja Woodfire Pellets Robust Blend and All-Purpose Blend Starter Packs, & Quick Start Guide with 15 recipes.
SaleNo. 4
VEVOR Outdoor Propane Deep Fryer, Double Burners Commercial Fryer, 16 Qt Stainless Steel Cooker with Removable...
  • 2-Tank 4 Gal Capacity: The outdoor propane deep fryer features two tanks with a combined capacity of 4 gallons (2 gals each). This allows you to fry larger quantities of food or even cook different types of food simultaneously. Please do not add oil over...
  • Upgraded Dual Side Tables: The commercial deep fryer has two side tables that provide ample space for prepping ingredients, holding utensils, and keeping essential items within reach. These side tables enhance convenience and efficiency during the cooking...
  • Independent Fire Control: With the commercial deep fryer stand, you can individually control the fire for each tank. The knobs have damping and can be turned to OFF to put out the fire. The hollow panel design makes it simple to observe the flames...
  • Safety Precautions: The commercial fryer comes with several safety precautions. It is explicitly designed for outdoor use only. Proper assembly and tightening of screws are essential for secure operation. A hose connector with CSA Certification meets...
  • Intimate Details: Our deep fryer 2 baskets offers durability and easy cleaning. It is rust-resistant and suitable for outdoor use. The dual wind baffles ensure consistent heat by protecting against wind interference. The low basket hanger preserves the...
No. 5
Cuisinart Outdoor Electric Grill, 8-in-1 Air Fryer/Grill/Smoker, 154 sq in
  • REAL SMOKE FROM AN ELECTRIC BARBECUE GRILL: Built‑in wood‑pellet smoke drawer delivers smoky flavor on an electric BBQ grill and smoker. Use the smoke button during any cook for quick results, or enter smoker mode for extended smoking. Moisture cup...
  • 8-IN-1 AIR FRYER GRILL COMBO: Steak grill at 500°F. Air fry at 400°F. Smoke, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate, keep warm. 1800W electric grills outdoor cooking appliance and steak cooker in one unit
  • BUILT-IN SMART TEMPERATURE PROBE: Monitors meat temp and auto-switches to Keep Warm when done. No overcooked food. Preset controls on this electric grill make every cook on your patio grill easy
  • SMALL ELECTRIC GRILL, BIG CAPACITY: 154 sq. in. Ceramic nonstick surface fits 6 burgers. Works as a balcony grill for apartments, small patio grill, table top grill, or portable grill. Plug into any GFCI outlet
  • EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN THE BOX: Probe, smoke drawer, moisture cup, air fry basket, pellet start pack, recipe guide, and easy-clean drip tray included. Cuisinart electric grill backed by a 3-year warranty.
No. 6
Feasto 10 Qt Outdoor Propane Gas Fish Fryer Pot Kit with Strainer Basket
  • Multi-functional Cooking: This 10 QT aluminum pot set includes an individual partition, a perforated basket with a plastic handle for dipping, a gas burner stand equipped with a hose and regulator, as well as a thermometer. It allows you to easily fry a...
No. 7
932°F Extreme Heat Resistant Gloves for Grill BBQ,Aillary Waterproof Long Sleeve Pit Grill Gloves for Fryer...
  • SAY GOODBYE TO BURNS! At 14” inches long, our BBQ gloves better protect fingers, hands and wrists from burns. And Our cooking gloves are heat resistant up to 932°F / 500°C .use this bbq accessories for your turkey fryer...
  • PRO DESIGN&COMFORTABLE!Texture on the surface of the waterproof gloves provides a NON-SLIP protection, perfect for handing wet or greasy items,The double layer soft cotton liner not only provide max comfortable fitting but also good insulated from heat.
  • EASY TO CLEAN AND STORE-No matter how sticky or greasy they get,the non-slip and waterproof GRILL gloves easily wash clean by hand or in the dishwasher.The large hanging hole make the gloves easily to store and dry.And you can hang it up easily with...
  • EASY HANDLING BOILING WATER OR STEAM:As the neoprene rubber coating is waterproof, you could handle hot boiling water or steam easily, just put your hands in hot boiling water without feeling heat(please have a test in cold water in case of any defective...
  • VERSATILE & MULTIPURPOSE:The most versatile grilling accessories tool for baking, cooking and grilling, they can be used inside the kitchen for baked goods, by the grill for barbecue chicken, frying turkey,Meat Smoker, Grills,Welding or even the...
No. 8
Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker, Outdoor Camping
  • 823 Square Inches: Includes 475 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 151 sq. in. chrome-plated warming rack and 197 sq. in. offset smoker
  • Tasty Smoke Flavors: The offset smoker is firmly attached to charcoal grill to ensure good circulation of heat and smoke. Easy to open side door to add charcoal and remove ashes; air vent stokes fire instantly
  • Adjustable Lifting Rack: The two-level height-adjustable charcoal pan ensures enhanced control over cooking temperatures by adjusting the distance between the food and the heat source
  • Temperature Monitor: The easy-to-read lid thermometer helps you maintain the ideal cooking temperature for a wide range of foods, giving you confidence in your grilling results
  • Ample Space: Front and side tables offer workspace for seasonings and grilling tools. The bottom shelf provides extra storage space and holds up to only 20 lb. accessories when they are evenly distributed
No. 9
Gas One Double Fryer with 2 Baskets Propane Burners for Outdoor Cooking – Heavy Duty 18Qt Aluminum Pot...
  • Heavy Duty Build: The Gas One fryers with baskets large are made employing premium grade, highly durable materials, a combination of aluminum pot, cast iron burner head and rustproof metal body, being easy to clean and designed to withstand the test of...
  • Spacious 18Qt Pot: This propane deep fryer outdoor features a convenient and practical 18qt pot, easily accommodating your cooking needs. The powerful propane burner ensures an even heat distribution, resulting in perfect results every time!
  • Double Strainer Baskets: Easily prepare 2 different dishes at the same time with the 2 included strainer baskets, perfect for outdoor cooking, family BBQ, camping or professional chefs! No more wasted time and effort with multiple refills!
  • Includes Thermometer: Unlike similar products on the market, this outdoor deep fryer with basket includes an accurate thermometer which clearly tells you when your oil is ready for frying, at the same time monitoring the temperature during the cooking...
  • Endless Frying Possibilities: The Gas One deep frying pan with basket is incredibly versatile and can be employed for frying delicious meats, seafood, shrimp, fish, chicken, cheese, and more. Impress your friends and loved ones with delicious courses...
No. 10
OuterMust 58,000 BTU Outdoor Fish Fryer with Baskets and Lid, 18 Qt. Propane Deep Fryer and 2 Inner Baskets...
  • 🍗【A Professional Helper】This 18 qt. outdoor fish fryer comes with one aluminum fryer pot, one lid, two inner baskets, one lid, one 5’’ thermometer and one stand. Fish and chips, french fries, croquettes, onion rings, shrimps, donuts, fried...
  • 🍗【Safe & Efficient】The stove head of this propane deep fryer is made of durable cast iron with strong output of 58,000 BTU which is totally better than those cheap-made stove with lower output. This outdoor fryer with basket and lid comes with a...
  • 🍗【User-friendly】 This outdoor propane fryer with basket is lit by manual ignition. After connecting the gas cylinder, just turn on the switch and use the ignition coil to light the fire, no additional operation is required. We care about our...
  • 🍗【Environment-friendly】 With the lid, you no longer have to worry about how to store the used oils. The lid of this outdoor fish fryer keeps the inside of the fryer cleaner when not in use. This propane deep fryer comes with two inner baskets for...
  • 🍗【Note】Please be aware that if you pour way too much oil into the propane deep fryer, it will overfill when you fry things. Aluminum pot will show burn marks underneath but will not affect normal use. To avoid sticking, place the fryer basket in...

Last update on 2026-09-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Choose the Best Outdoor Fryers Smokers

Functionality and Versatility

When selecting an outdoor fryer smoker, the range of cooking functions is a primary consideration. Units like the Ninja OG751 and OG951 boast impressive 7-in-1 capabilities, allowing users to grill, smoke, air fry, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate. This extensive versatility means one appliance can replace several, making it a space-efficient choice for diverse culinary tasks. In contrast, the Charbroil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer is a highly specialized unit, excelling specifically at oil-less frying turkeys or large roasts using infrared technology. Users should assess whether a multi-functional device that handles various cooking styles, or a dedicated fryer for specific large-item cooking, better suits their needs.

Capacity and Portability

The cooking capacity directly impacts how much food can be prepared at once, which is crucial for entertaining or family meals. Many Ninja Woodfire models, such as the OG850 and OG951, are designated 'XL,' offering 180 sq. in. of cooking space—a 30{aff304e829b8f94199eebfc0089f381e608e7e0e6793df6829ee0270dd37e8d3} increase over original models. This larger area can accommodate more burgers, ribs, or a bigger roast. The Charbroil Big Easy, while specialized, can handle a 16-pound turkey, an 8-pound roast, or a 6-pound pork shoulder. For those who frequently cook for crowds, an XL capacity is typically more practical. Portability is also a factor; Ninja units are generally designed for ease of movement, while the Charbroil's integrated handles also facilitate transportation, making both suitable for backyard and beyond.

Smart Features and Monitoring

Precision and ease of use are greatly enhanced by integrated smart features. Several Ninja models, including the OG751, OG850, and OG321, come with a built-in thermometer, which helps monitor internal food temperatures without constant manual checks. The Ninja OG951 elevates this with two built-in thermometers and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to monitor and control cooking via the Ninja ProConnect app on their smartphone. This level of smart integration can significantly reduce guesswork and improve consistency, especially for low-and-slow smoking or roasting. The Charbroil unit, by design, focuses on simpler, direct cooking without advanced digital monitoring, appealing to users who prefer a more hands-on approach.

Cooking Technology and Flavor Profile

The core cooking technology dictates both performance and the resulting flavor profile. Ninja Woodfire grills leverage electric heat combined with Woodfire Technology, using a small amount of wood pellets (typically 1/2 cup) to infuse 100{aff304e829b8f94199eebfc0089f381e608e7e0e6793df6829ee0270dd37e8d3} authentic smoky flavor into any dish, whether grilling, air frying, or smoking. This provides a distinct advantage for those seeking genuine BBQ taste without the hassle of traditional charcoal or propane smokers. The Charbroil Big Easy employs patented infrared cooking technology for even heat and no flare-ups, specifically for oil-less frying. This method yields crispy skin and juicy interiors for poultry and roasts but does not impart a smoky flavor. Users should consider whether wood-fired smoke or oil-less crisping is the desired culinary outcome.

Pros & Cons

Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill Built-In Thermometer,7-in-1 Master Grill,BBQ Smoker,& Outdoor Air Fryer Plus Bake,Roast,Dehydrate & Broil,Woodfire Technology,Weather-Resistant,Grey XL

Pros

  • Offers 7-in-1 functionality for diverse cooking methods.
  • Generous XL capacity suitable for larger meals.
  • Utilizes Woodfire Technology for authentic smoky flavors with minimal pellets.

Cons

  • Relies on an electric power source, limiting placement.
  • Lacks advanced app connectivity for remote monitoring.

Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Outdoor Grill & Smoker, Bluetooth, App Enabled, 7-in-1 Master Grill, BBQ Smoker, Outdoor Air Fryer, Woodfire Technology, 2 Built-In Thermometers, Black/Blue

Pros

  • Extensive 7-in-1 functionality covering grilling to dehydrating.
  • Features Bluetooth and app connectivity for remote cooking control.
  • Equipped with two built-in thermometers for precise temperature management.

Cons

  • Typically represents a higher investment due to advanced features.
  • Requires access to an electrical outlet for operation.

Charbroil The Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer | Outdoor Air Fryer | Propane Cooker, Black - 24102165

Pros

  • Specialized for oil-less frying of large items like a 16-pound turkey.
  • Patented infrared technology ensures even cooking and prevents flare-ups.
  • Portable design with handles for easy outdoor use.

Cons

  • Limited to a single primary cooking function (frying/roasting).
  • Requires propane as a fuel source, which needs to be managed separately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overlooking Functionality Needs

A common mistake is selecting a unit without fully considering the desired cooking methods. For instance, choosing the Charbroil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer primarily for its 'fryer' aspect, while later wishing for smoking or grilling capabilities, will lead to disappointment. Conversely, investing in a multi-functional Ninja OG751 with 7-in-1 features when the primary need is solely oil-less frying might mean paying for unused functionality.

Ignoring Capacity Specifications

Users often fail to carefully check the cooking area or capacity, particularly when comparing models like the standard Ninja OG321 versus the XL Ninja OG850 or OG951. An OG321's 176 sq. in. might be sufficient for a small family, but expecting it to comfortably feed a large gathering that an XL model (180 sq. in.) can handle, will result in multiple cooking batches.

Underestimating the Value of Smart Features

Another pitfall is underestimating the convenience offered by advanced monitoring. Relying solely on a basic built-in thermometer, as found in the Ninja OG751, might be adequate for some, but for complex cooks or remote monitoring, the Bluetooth and app-enabled control with dual thermometers of the Ninja OG951 can be invaluable. Not considering this difference can lead to less precise results or more frequent manual checks.

Misunderstanding Pellet Consumption and Fuel Sources

Many assume all outdoor cooking appliances operate similarly. However, the Ninja Woodfire models, like the OG751, require specific wood pellets for their authentic smoky flavor, typically just 1/2 cup per cook. Failing to account for pellet supply or expecting a propane-fueled unit like the Charbroil Big Easy to produce wood-fired smoke are common misunderstandings that impact the cooking experience and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ninja's Woodfire Technology?
Ninja's Woodfire Technology uses a small amount of proprietary wood pellets and an integrated smoker box to infuse authentic smoky flavors into food. This technology allows electric grills to achieve genuine BBQ taste across various cooking functions, from grilling to air frying, with minimal effort.
What's the difference between 4-in-1 and 7-in-1 functionality in Ninja models?
The 4-in-1 functionality, seen in models like the Ninja OG850, typically includes grilling, BBQ smoking, air frying, and baking. The 7-in-1 functionality, present in models like the Ninja OG751 and OG951, expands on this by adding roasting, dehydrating, and broiling, offering a wider range of cooking options.
How does an oil-less turkey fryer like the Charbroil Big Easy differ from a multi-functional grill/smoker?
The Charbroil Big Easy is specifically designed for oil-less frying using infrared heat, focusing on achieving crispy skin and moist interiors for large poultry or roasts without needing gallons of oil. Multi-functional units like Ninja Woodfire grills provide diverse cooking methods including grilling, smoking, and air frying, often using electric heat and wood pellets for flavor, rather than specialized oil-less frying technology.
How much wood pellet is typically needed for smoking in a Ninja Woodfire grill?
For most smoking tasks in Ninja Woodfire grills, such as the OG751 or OG321, typically only 1/2 cup of wood pellets is required. This small amount is sufficient to create authentic BBQ bark and flavor quickly and efficiently, making pellet management straightforward.
Are outdoor fryers smokers truly portable for use beyond the backyard?
Many outdoor fryers smokers, including Ninja Woodfire grills and the Charbroil Big Easy, are designed with portability in mind, featuring compact sizes and sometimes handles for easy transport. However, their portability is often constrained by the need for an electrical outlet for electric models or a propane tank for gas models, which should be considered for camping or tailgating.