7 Best Gravity-Fed Charcoal Smokers (October 2026)
The best gravity-fed charcoal smokers include the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 for backyard variety, the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1150 for large cookouts, and the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 for flat-top meals.
On this page (6 sections)
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 is a strong all-around gravity fed smoker for cooks who want charcoal flavor, app control and room for larger meals. Choose the XT for its larger cooking area and longer stated run time, or the 600 when you want a smaller cooking surface.
A gravity-fed charcoal smoker uses a hopper to feed fuel toward the fire. Digital controls and a fan help manage heat, so you can keep charcoal cooking in the mix without tending the fire in the same way as a traditional offset smoker.
These cookers are best for people who enjoy charcoal flavor and want help maintaining a set temperature. They need electricity for the controls and fan, and their size, fuel routine and cleanup still call for a dedicated outdoor cooking spot.
This guide compares cooking area, hopper capacity, temperature range and useful features. For the broader choices, see our charcoal and offset smoker guide, best charcoal smokers roundup and Masterbuilt Gravity Series guide.
Our picks at a glance
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Check itMasterbuilt Gravity Series 600
Best for smaller households - 5
Check itMasterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill
Best for easy ignition - 6
Check itOklahoma Joe's Tahoma 900 Auto-Feed Smoker
Best for prep space - 7
Best for long cooksCheck it
How we chose these gravity fed smokers
We compared the models by cooking capacity, fuel capacity, controls and practical differences that affect how you cook. The best choice depends on how much food you prepare at once, how often you want to reload fuel and which extra features you'll actually use.
The 1050 earns the lead spot as a flexible charcoal grill and smoker with a large cooking area and app control. The 1150 and XT suit cooks who want more room, while the 800 adds a griddle and the smaller models trade capacity for a more compact cooking surface or easier ignition.
A hopper size and stated cook time help you plan, but they don't guarantee a fixed number of hours in every cook. Temperature, fuel and cooking conditions affect how quickly charcoal burns.
Gravity fed smoker comparison
Cooking area, fuel capacity and controls are the fastest way to narrow this group. Use the table to shortlist a model, then consider whether its size and extra features fit your cooking routine.
| Product | Best for | Cooking space | Hopper capacity | Controls | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 | backyard variety | 1,050 sq in | 10 lb lump or 16 lb briquettes | Digital panel and app | 8.4 |
| Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1150 | large cookouts | 1,150 sq in | 12 lb lump or 18 lb briquettes | Digital panel and app | 8.3 |
| Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 | flat-top meals | 800 sq in total | 10 lb lump or 16 lb briquettes | Digital panel, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | 8.2 |
| Masterbuilt Gravity Series 600 | smaller households | 600 sq in | 12 lb lump or 18 lb briquettes | Digital panel and Wi-Fi app | 7.9 |
| Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill | easy ignition | 545 sq in | 5 lb lump or 7 lb briquettes | Digital panel and app | 7.8 |
| Oklahoma Joe's Tahoma 900 Auto-Feed Smoker | prep space | 900 sq in | LCD panel and app | 7.6 | |
| Masterbuilt Gravity Series XT | long cooks | 1,260 sq in | 12 lb lump or 18 lb briquettes | Digital panel and app | 7.5 |
The best gravity fed smokers
The Masterbuilt 1050 is a versatile starting point for cooks who want room for a range of meals and digital control. The other picks serve more specific needs, from a griddle surface to longer stated cook times.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050: Best for backyard variety
- 1,050 sq in cooking space
- 10 lb lump charcoal or 16 lb briquettes
- App and digital control
- 225°F to 700°F
The 1050 pairs a large cooking area with digital temperature control and app features. It suits cooks who want charcoal flavor with less manual temperature tending.
Pros
- Large cooking area
- App can adjust temperature and time
- Reversible cast iron grates
Cons
- Needs charcoal and a power source for its digital fan and controls
- Large footprint
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 suits cooks who want one grill for smoking, grilling and searing. It has 1,050 sq in of cooking space, reversible cast iron grates and a digital panel for setting the temperature.
The app can adjust temperature and time, monitor meat probes or shut down the grill. The hopper holds 10 lb of lump charcoal or 16 lb of briquettes, with up to 8 hours of use stated.
Choose the 1050 for a roomy, versatile setup with app features. Skip it if you cook small portions most of the time or need a cooker that works without electricity for its fan and controls.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1150: Best for large cookouts
- 1,150 sq in cooking space
- Up to 15 hours of cooking
- App supports up to four meat probes
- 225°F to 700°F
The 1150 has more cooking area and hopper capacity than the 1050. Its app can monitor up to four meat probes.
Pros
- Largest cooking area in this roundup
- App monitors up to four meat probes
- High-heat searing up to 700°F
Cons
- Large unit to place and move
- Temperature control and app features rely on electricity
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1150 is a fit for bigger gatherings and cooks who want more cooking area than the 1050 provides. Its 1,150 sq in surface and hopper sized for 12 lb of lump charcoal or 18 lb of briquettes support larger cooks.
The app can monitor up to four meat probes, and the cooking range spans 225°F to 700°F. Masterbuilt states up to 15 hours of cooking time, which may reduce the need to refill during a long session.
Choose the 1150 if you regularly cook for a group and will use its extra capacity. Skip it if your yard has limited room or you rarely need more surface than a smaller model offers.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800: Best for flat-top meals
- 800 sq in total cooking area
- Flat top griddle insert and cast iron grates
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth control
- 225°F to 700°F
The 800 combines smoking and grilling with a flat top griddle insert. It suits buyers who want to switch between griddle meals and food cooked over cast iron grates.
Pros
- Griddle insert included
- App control through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
- Cast iron grill grates
Cons
- Less cooking space than the 1050 and 1150
- Griddle cooking may be unnecessary if you only smoke
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 stands out for the flat top griddle insert included with its cast iron grates. That gives you a choice of surfaces for griddle meals, grilling and smoking, with 800 sq in of total cooking area.
The digital panel or a smart device can set temperature and cook time through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The hopper holds 10 lb of lump charcoal or 16 lb of briquettes, and the stated use time is up to 10 hours.
Choose the 800 if you expect to use the griddle as well as the smoker. Skip it if you only want to smoke food, since the griddle insert adds little value to that routine and the larger models offer more cooking area.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 600: Best for smaller households
- 600 sq in cooking space
- Up to 18 hours at low-and-slow temperatures
- Wi-Fi app control
- 225°F to 700°F
The 600 offers app control and a gravity-fed hopper with less cooking space than the larger Gravity Series models here. Its stated cook time is up to 18 hours at low-and-slow temperatures.
Pros
- Smaller cooking area than the larger Gravity models
- App can monitor temperature and meat probes
- Reversible cast iron grates
Cons
- Less cooking space than the 800, 1050 and 1150
- Temperature controls use electricity
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 600 fits cooks who want a smaller cooking surface while keeping a substantial hopper. It provides 600 sq in of cooking space and holds up to 12 lb of lump charcoal or 18 lb of briquettes.
Masterbuilt states up to 18 hours at low-and-slow temperatures. App controls can set and monitor temperature, track it over time, send alerts and check meat probes; reversible cast iron grates support both smoking and searing.
Choose the 600 if your regular meals don't need the larger cooking surfaces in this roundup. Skip it for frequent group cooks where arranging several foods across a smaller area could become inconvenient.
Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill: Best for easy ignition
- 545 sq in cooking space
- QuickStart automatic ignition
- Digital panel and app
- 5 lb lump or 7 lb briquettes
The AutoIgnite 545 is a compact charcoal grill and smoker with QuickStart ignition and a smaller MiniHopper. It suits cooks who value push-button ignition over extended fuel capacity.
Pros
- QuickStart automatic ignition
- App and digital temperature control
- 545 sq in cooking area
Cons
- Smaller hopper than the Gravity Series models
- Temperature range starts at 250°F
The Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill is a compact choice for cooks who want push-button ignition. QuickStart lights a fire starter, and its DigitalFan helps maintain the selected temperature.
Its 545 sq in cooking area and MiniHopper make it smaller in capacity than the Gravity Series models here. The MiniHopper holds up to 5 lb of lump charcoal or 7 lb of briquettes, with up to 8 hours of use stated; the temperature range is 250°F to 650°F.
Choose the AutoIgnite when easy ignition and a smaller cooking area matter more than extended fuel capacity. Skip it if you want the larger hopper or the lower 225°F smoking range offered by the Gravity Series picks.
Oklahoma Joe's Tahoma 900 Auto-Feed Smoker: Best for prep space
- 900 sq in cooking space
- 16 lb fuel capacity
- Up to 13 hours of cooking
- App control and two food probes
The Tahoma 900 combines charcoal and hardwood fuel with app-connected temperature control. Its wraparound shelf, two probes and front-access ash pan support a well-equipped cook station.
Pros
- Wraparound prep shelf
- Two stainless-steel food probes
- Removable front-access ash pan
Cons
- Uses electricity as well as charcoal and hardwood
- Fewer buyer reviews are available than for some established models
The Oklahoma Joe's Tahoma 900 Auto-Feed Smoker is a strong fit if you want workspace and useful cook monitoring beside the grill. Its 900 sq in cooking area sits between several Masterbuilt options, and its wraparound shelf gives you room for prep, tools and trays.
The 36 in hopper has an angled chute and fan-fed airflow, and Oklahoma Joe's states a 16 lb fuel capacity for up to 13 hours. An LCD panel and app manage temperature, while two stainless-steel food probes track meat temperature.
Choose the Tahoma for its combination of shelf space, probes and front-access removable ash pan. Skip it if you want a charcoal cooker that doesn't rely on electricity or don't need its extra workspace.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series XT: Best for long cooks
- 1,260 sq in cooking space
- Up to 24 hours of use
- 12 lb lump or 18 lb briquettes
- 180°F to 700°F
The XT has the largest stated cooking area and longest stated cook time in this group. Its insulated body design is aimed at retaining heat, smoke and moisture.
Pros
- Largest cooking area in this roundup
- Up to 24 hours of stated use
- Temperature range starts at 180°F
Cons
- Heavy-duty size may take more room
- Its stated cook time is not a guarantee for every cooking temperature or fuel load
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series XT suits large cooks and people who want the longest stated run time in this group. It has 1,260 sq in of cooking space and a hopper sized for up to 12 lb of lump charcoal or 18 lb of briquettes.
Masterbuilt states up to 24 hours of use and a temperature range of 180°F to 700°F. Its digital panel and app can monitor temperature, session graphs and meat probes; the body design includes a fiberglass mesh gasket and dual-wall insulation.
Choose the XT if you have the space and want its large capacity and low temperature range. Skip it if you cook modest amounts, because its extra area and long stated burn time are unlikely to make up for the room it takes.
How do you choose a gravity fed smoker?
Choose by matching the cooking surface to your usual meals, then check the hopper, power needs and features. A large cooker can make group meals easier, but it also needs a suitable spot and more room to maneuver.
How much cooking space is enough?
The models here range from 545 sq in on the AutoIgnite 545 to 1,260 sq in on the Gravity Series XT. Think about the number and size of foods you prepare together, not only the number of people at the table.
More cooking space helps when you want to fit several cuts or cook for a gathering. For smaller household meals, a 600 or 800 may offer enough area without stepping up to the largest choices.
Measure the full placement area, including room to open the lid and reach shelves. Check the manufacturer's dimensions and your route into the yard before buying a large grill.
How much hopper capacity do you need?
Hopper capacity tells you how much fuel can be loaded at once, while stated cook time offers a rough planning point. Neither guarantees a set burn time, so consider the length of your typical cook and whether you can check on the smoker.
The 1050's stated capacity is 10 lb of lump charcoal or 16 lb of briquettes. The XT holds up to 12 lb of lump or 18 lb of briquettes, with up to 24 hours of use stated.
Fuel type can affect how you load and manage the cook. For a primer on the two common charcoal options, read our lump charcoal vs briquettes guide.
Do you need app control and meat probes?
App control is useful if you want to adjust settings or monitor a cook from your phone. Probe support and alerts vary, so choose based on whether you plan to watch food temperature remotely or prefer checking at the grill.
A digital panel may be enough if you'll stay nearby. These smokers still need electricity for the fan and controls, even though charcoal supplies the cooking heat.
Is a gravity-fed design right for your cooking style?
A gravity-fed smoker suits cooks who want charcoal flavor with digital help managing the temperature. It still involves loading charcoal, lighting the fire and cleaning ash after use.
An offset smoker suits people who prefer a separate firebox and are willing to tend the fire more directly. Compare the styles in our offset smoker beginner walkthrough.
How do you set up and use a gravity fed smoker?
Start with the manual, a stable outdoor location and the correct power setup. Loading fuel and lighting the smoker according to its instructions helps you begin with a controlled cook.
Before the first cook, assemble the grill as directed and confirm it sits on a stable surface with clearance around it. If the manufacturer calls for seasoning, follow its instructions; our guide to seasoning a new smoker explains why that first preparation matters.
For each cook, use the fuel and fire-starting method recommended for your model. Load the hopper as directed, keep fuel away from areas that must stay clear, and make sure the ash area is ready before you light it.
Set a cooking temperature at the panel or in the app, then allow the cooker to come up to temperature before adding food. Keep the lid closed as much as practical, and use a meat probe when the model supports one.
After cooking, shut the unit down using the controls and steps in its manual. Let the smoker cool before handling ash or cleaning surfaces, and keep the ash pan and cooking area clear for the next session.
What common mistakes should you avoid?
Don't assume that a full hopper guarantees a particular cooking time. Use stated capacity as a planning guide, check fuel during longer cooks as the manual directs, and allow time for the temperature and conditions of your cook.
Don't forget the power source. A charcoal smoker with digital controls still needs electricity for the fan, so check that an outlet or suitable power supply reaches the cooking area.
Avoid choosing by cooking area alone. A large surface can be useful for gatherings, but it doesn't help if the smoker won't fit your yard or your usual meals need only a fraction of it.
Don't neglect cleanup. Ash and grease left behind can complicate the next cook, so follow the manual's cleaning steps and empty removable trays when the smoker has cooled.
Our smoker cleaning guide covers a simple routine.
Which gravity fed smoker should you buy?
Choose the 1050 for a balanced charcoal grill and smoker with app control and generous cooking space. Choose the 1150 or XT when larger cooks are common, with the XT offering the most cooking area and the longest stated run time in this group.
The 800 is the pick for cooks who will use its griddle insert. The 600 fits smaller everyday cooks, the AutoIgnite 545 emphasizes push-button ignition, and the Tahoma 900 brings a wraparound prep shelf, two probes and front-access ash removal.
Before you decide, measure the spot, plan for electricity and think about the features you'll use every cook. For more charcoal options and buying guidance, visit our charcoal smoker guide.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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Frequently asked questions
What is a gravity fed smoker?
A gravity fed smoker uses a hopper that feeds charcoal toward the fire as fuel burns. On these models, a fan and digital controls help manage the cooking temperature, while charcoal supplies the heat and smoke.
The fan and controls need electricity, so plan for an outlet or a suitable power source.
Do gravity fed smokers need electricity?
Yes. These models use electricity to run the fan and digital controls that help manage temperature, while charcoal remains the cooking fuel.
Check the owner's manual for the power setup and safety instructions before planning a cook away from an outlet.
How long can a gravity fed smoker cook without refilling?
It depends on the model and cooking conditions. The Masterbuilt 1050 lists up to 8 hours, the 1150 up to 15 hours, and the Gravity Series XT up to 24 hours.
Treat these as stated maximums, since temperature, fuel choice and how the cooker is used affect burn time.
Is a gravity fed smoker good for beginners?
It can suit a beginner who wants charcoal flavor with digital temperature control. You set a target, and the fan helps manage heat, but fuel loading, fire starting and cleanup still take practice.
Our charcoal smoker first-cook guide walks through the basics.
What should I check before buying a gravity fed smoker?
Compare cooking area, hopper capacity, temperature range, controls and the space available in your yard. Think about whether you'll use the app, probes or extra cooking surfaces.
Also plan for electricity, since the fan and digital controls need power even though charcoal provides the heat.
