Looking Beyond the Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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If you are looking for pit boss 3 series gas vertical smoker alternatives, you might want to check other options. This model offers 880 square inches of cooking space and reaches up to 320°F. It uses a dual burner system with 12,500 BTUs and includes external wood chip access. These specs make it a practical choice for propane smokers needing external chip access.
You might choose a different product for other reasons. Some buyers need digital precision or larger capacity. Others prefer electric, charcoal, or wood-fired fuel sources. The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specs overlap with the original. Each option provides a distinct combination of size, fuel type, and control features. You can compare these 6 models to find the right fit for your cooking style and space constraints.
How each alternative compares
Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker
The Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker replaces propane with electric power and adds a digital controller for precise temperature management. While the Pit Boss relies on manual piezo ignition and a fixed range up to 320°F, this unit offers automated consistency without fuel tank refills. It is slightly narrower at 19.9 inches deep but stands shorter at 41.3 inches. You trade the raw heat output of gas for hands-off reliability. This model suits you if you want exact temperature control and do not need the high BTU output or wood chip integration of the Pit Boss.
Masterbuilt 40-inch Propane Vertical Smoker
The Masterbuilt 40-inch Propane Vertical Smoker matches the Pit Boss fuel type but increases physical footprint significantly. It stands 53 inches tall and weighs 92 pounds, compared to the Pit Boss’s 47-inch height and 63-pound weight. Both offer vertical cooking, but this Masterbuilt model provides a larger overall capacity for substantial batches. It lacks the digital features found in newer models but retains the simplicity of gas heat. You should choose this if you need more vertical cooking space and do not mind the extra height and weight for easier propane connectivity.
Charbroil TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Gas Grill
The Charbroil TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Gas Grill is a compact alternative designed for versatile cooking rather than dedicated smoking. It weighs only 22.7 pounds and stands 36.2 inches tall, making it much lighter and shorter than the Pit Boss. While the Pit Boss focuses on vertical smoking with 880 square inches, this unit combines grilling, roasting, and smoking in a smaller footprint. It uses infrared technology for different heat distribution. Pick this if you have limited patio space and need a multi-purpose appliance instead of a specialized vertical smoker with external chip access.
Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker
The Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker introduces Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to monitor temperatures remotely. It uses wood-fired heat with a digital controller, offering more flavor complexity than the Pit Boss 3-Series gas model. It weighs 74.6 pounds and stands 47 inches tall, similar in height but slightly heavier. The 4-Series adds a meat probe and digital precision, whereas the 3-Series relies on manual gas control. Choose this if you want smart features and wood flavor integration while staying within the same brand ecosystem for familiar maintenance.
Dyna-Glo Wide Body Offset Charcoal Smoker
The Dyna-Glo Wide Body Offset Charcoal Smoker switches from gas to charcoal fuel and offers a wider design at 43.3 inches. It weighs 83 pounds and stands 50.2 inches tall, providing a stable base for manual temperature adjustment. Unlike the Pit Boss’s gas burners, this unit relies on charcoal heat and an offset firebox for traditional smoke flavor. It lacks digital controls or piezo ignition. This model fits you if you prioritize large capacity and traditional charcoal smoking over the convenience and precise temperature range of a gas-powered vertical smoker.
MFSTUDIO Vertical Charcoal Smoker
The MFSTUDIO Vertical Charcoal Smoker provides a 961 square inch cooking area, exceeding the Pit Boss 3-Series capacity. It weighs 102 pounds and stands 51.5 inches tall, making it the heaviest and tallest option listed. It uses charcoal fuel with an offset firebox, requiring manual temperature management unlike the Pit Boss’s gas system. This model suits you if you need maximum cooking volume and do not mind the extra weight and fuel complexity. It offers substantial space for large batches but sacrifices the ease of use and quick ignition provided by propane.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker Best overall | Propane smokers needing external chip access | |
| 2 | Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker Best premium | Electric smokers needing digital precision | |
| 3 | Masterbuilt 40-inch Propane Vertical Smoker Best propane | Large batch propane smoking | |
| 4 | Charbroil TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Gas Grill Best budget | small patios and versatile cooking | |
| 5 | Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker Best wood-fired | digital control with wood flavor | |
| 6 | Dyna-Glo Wide Body Offset Charcoal Smoker Also great | Large capacity vertical charcoal smoking | |
| 7 | MFSTUDIO Vertical Charcoal Smoker Also great | large capacity charcoal smoking |
Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker
Best for: Propane smokers needing external chip access
- Cooking Area
- 880 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 100°F – 320°F
- Cooking Racks
- 4 racks
- Fuel
- Gas
- Smoker Style
- Vertical
- Features
- Offset Smoker
The Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker offers 880 square inches of cooking space across four racks. It uses a dual-burner system delivering 12,500 BTUs to reach temperatures between 100°F and 320°F. This propane-powered unit features porcelain-coated stainless steel burners and a piezo ignition. You get a large viewing window and external wood chip access. It measures 47 inches tall and weighs 63 pounds, making it a substantial addition to your outdoor kitchen.
- 880 sq. inch cooking area with four racks
- Dual valve and dual burner system with 12,500 BTUs
- Porcelain-coated stainless steel burners for durability
- Piezo ignition for easy lighting
- External wood chip and ash removal system
- Lower maximum temperature of 320°F compared to competitors
- Heavier build at 63 pounds for easier mobility
- Smaller cooking capacity than 40-inch vertical models
- You need a dedicated propane smoker with moderate capacity
- You prefer porcelain-coated stainless steel burners for even heat
- You want external access for wood chips and ash
- You require WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring
- You need a maximum temperature above 320°F
- You prefer a charcoal or offset smoker design
Verdict: Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker fits buyers who want a straightforward propane smoker with durable burners and external maintenance access. It is a solid choice for those who do not need smart features or extreme heat levels.
Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker
Best for: Electric smokers needing digital precision
- Cooking Area
- 970 sq. in.
- Fuel
- Electric
- Smoker Style
- Vertical
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Digital Controller
- Color
- Black
- Shape
- Square
This vertical electric smoker offers 850+ square inches of cooking space for steady, low-and-slow smoking. The 40-inch digital model features a digital controller for precise temperature management. Its square shape and chrome racks fit a wide range of meats. The unit measures 41.3 inches high and 25.6 inches wide. It suits those who want consistent heat without managing charcoal or wood fire. The side wood chip loader adds flavor easily.
- 850+ square inches of cooking area
- Digital controller for precise temperature
- Vertical design saves floor space
- Side wood chip loader included
- Electric fuel source requires a nearby outlet
- Square shape may limit fit for large briskets
- 40-inch height is taller than some counter options
- You want precise temperature control without manual adjustments
- You have limited outdoor floor space but ample height
- You prefer electric convenience over charcoal management
- You need gas or charcoal fuel for higher heat
- You require WiFi connectivity for remote monitoring
- You have low overhead clearance for tall units
Verdict: Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker delivers reliable, hands-off smoking for medium-sized batches. It fits buyers who value digital precision and vertical efficiency over raw power or fuel flexibility.
Masterbuilt 40-inch Propane Vertical Smoker
Best for: Large batch propane smoking
- Cooking Area
- 960 sq in
- Temperature Range
- Up to 375°F
- Controller Type
- Analog dial
- Fuel
- Propane
- Smoker Style
- Vertical
- Features
- Offset Smoker
This vertical propane smoker offers 960 square inches of cooking space, fitting up to 16 chickens or 6 turkeys. It features a push-button ignition and an adjustable dial for temperatures up to 375°F. The 40-inch height and 92-pound weight provide stability. You get four chrome racks and a removable water bowl for moisture control. It suits those who want reliable propane heat with straightforward analog controls.
- 960 square inches of vertical cooking space
- Push-button ignition for easy lighting
- Adjustable dial up to 375°F
- Fits up to 16 chickens or 6 turkeys
- Removable water bowl for moisture and drippings
- Heavier build at 92 pounds compared to lighter electric models
- Smaller width at 28.7 inches limits side workspace
- Analog dial offers fewer precision settings than digital displays
- You need high capacity for large cuts like pork butts
- You prefer propane for consistent heat without electricity
- You want simple analog temperature control
- You need digital WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity
- You prefer charcoal for authentic smoke flavor
- You require a smaller footprint for tight patios
Verdict: Masterbuilt 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Smoker delivers substantial capacity and reliable propane heat for serious backyard smoking. It is the best fit for cooks who prioritize volume and simplicity over digital features.
Charbroil TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Gas Grill
Best for: small patios and versatile cooking
- Cooking Area
- 180 sq in
- Fuel
- Gas
- Features
- Offset Smoker
- Grill Type
- Infrared
- Use
- Grilling, Smoker
- Color
- Black
This Charbroil unit combines smoking, roasting, and frying in one gas-powered design. It features a 180 square inch infrared grill grate that reduces flare-ups. The included basket handles turkeys up to 21 pounds. Its compact footprint measures 23.4 inches wide and weighs just 22.7 pounds. This makes it a practical option for smaller patios or decks where space is limited.
- 180 square inch infrared cooking surface
- Handles turkeys up to 21 pounds
- Three cooking modes: fry, roast, smoke
- Rotary ignition for easy lighting
- 180 square inch grate is smaller than the 40-inch vertical smokers
- 22.7 pound weight is light but offers less mass for heat retention
- Standard size limits total cooking capacity for large gatherings
- You need a compact grill for a small patio
- You want to smoke, roast, and fry in one device
- You prefer infrared technology to reduce flare-ups
- You require a large capacity for big family gatherings
- You prefer traditional vertical offset smoking designs
- You want a smoker with digital temperature controls
Verdict: Charbroil TRU-Infrared Gas Smoker Grill is a compact, versatile unit for those with limited space. It fits buyers who want to switch between frying, roasting, and smoking without needing multiple appliances.
Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker
Best for: digital control with wood flavor
- Cooking Area
- 1,320 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 100°F to 300°F
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Controller Type
- LCD
- Cooking Racks
- 6 racks
- Fuel
- Wood-Fired
This Pit Boss 4-Series vertical smoker combines electric heating with wood-fired flavor. It offers 1,320 square inches of cooking space across six adjustable racks. The unit features Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring. A 1,650-watt heating element maintains temperatures between 100°F and 300°F. You get a digital controller, meat probe, and rear wheels for mobility. It is a solid option for those wanting digital control with traditional smoke taste.
- 1,320 sq in total cooking surface with six racks
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring
- 1,650-watt heating element for consistent heat
- Includes meat probe and dual ports for temperature tracking
- Rear wheels for easier relocation and cleanup
- Heavier at 74.6 pounds compared to lighter electric options
- Lower maximum temperature of 300°F limits searing capability
- Requires an electrical outlet for the 1,650-watt element
- You want digital temperature control with wood chip flavor
- You need ample vertical space for large cuts of meat
- You prefer remote monitoring via smartphone apps
- You require high-heat searing capabilities above 300°F
- You need a completely portable unit without power cords
- You prefer traditional charcoal or pellet fuel sources only
Verdict: Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker fits users who value precise digital temperature management alongside the ability to add wood chips for flavor. It is best for cooks who want to monitor their smoke from a distance without sacrificing cooking capacity.
Dyna-Glo Wide Body Offset Charcoal Smoker
Best for: Large capacity vertical charcoal smoking
- Cooking Area
- 1890 sq in
- Fuel
- Charcoal
- Smoker Style
- Vertical
- Features
- Offset Smoker
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 21 × 43.3 × 50.2 inches
This wide-body vertical offset charcoal smoker offers 1890 square inches of cooking space. It features six height-adjustable grates and a porcelain-enameled steel charcoal chamber for efficient burning. The design uses rising heat and an offset firebox for slow cooking. Built-in stainless steel thermometer and adjustable flue help manage temperature and smoke flavor. It measures 43.3 inches wide and weighs 83 pounds.
- 1890 square inches of total cooking space
- Six height-adjustable cooking grates
- Porcelain-enameled steel charcoal chamber
- Adjustable flue for temperature control
- Built-in stainless steel thermometer
- Heavier build at 83 pounds
- Smaller width than 40-inch electric alternatives
- Requires manual charcoal management
- You need high-capacity vertical cooking space
- You prefer traditional offset charcoal smoking
- You want adjustable grate heights
- You require digital temperature controls
- You prefer propane or electric fuel
- You have limited deck space
Verdict: Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Smoker suits those prioritizing large charcoal smoking capacity and traditional offset design over digital convenience. It fits users who value manual temperature adjustment and ample cooking height.
MFSTUDIO Vertical Charcoal Smoker
Best for: large capacity charcoal smoking
- Cooking Area
- 961 sq in
- Cooking Racks
- 5 grates
- Fuel
- Charcoal
- Smoker Style
- Vertical
- Features
- Offset Smoker
- Grill Type
- Built-In
This MFSTUDIO vertical charcoal smoker offers 961 square inches of cooking space across five removable chrome-plated grates. It features an offset firebox with 106 square inches of direct grilling area. The unit includes a side water access door and adjustable top and side dampers for temperature control. Weighing 102 pounds, it provides stability via heavy-duty casters. You get a versatile setup for smoking and grilling with dedicated tools for heat management.
- 961 square inches of total cooking area
- Offset firebox allows for direct grilling
- Side water access door reduces heat loss
- Adjustable dampers for temperature control
- 102 pound weight requires significant floor space
- Manual temperature control lacks digital precision
- Charcoal fuel requires more active management than gas
- You want dedicated space for hanging meats
- You prefer the flavor profile of charcoal
- You need a side firebox for direct heat
- You require digital temperature monitoring
- You want to use propane or gas fuel
- You need a lightweight unit for easy transport
Verdict: MFSTUDIO 961 sq in Vertical Charcoal Smoker suits those who want a large, stable charcoal setup with an offset firebox. It fits users who value manual control and high capacity over digital convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker | Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker | Masterbuilt 40-inch Propane Vertical Smoker | Charbroil TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Gas Grill | Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker | Dyna-Glo Wide Body Offset Charcoal Smoker | MFSTUDIO Vertical Charcoal Smoker |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 880 sq in | 970 sq. in. | 960 sq in | 180 sq in | 1,320 sq in | 1890 sq in | 961 sq in |
| Temperature Range | 100°F – 320°F | – | Up to 375°F | – | 100°F to 300°F | – | – |
| Connectivity | – | – | – | – | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | – | – |
| Controller Type | – | – | Analog dial | – | LCD | – | – |
| Cooking Racks | 4 racks | – | – | – | 6 racks | – | 5 grates |
| Fuel | Gas | Electric | Propane | Gas | Wood-Fired | Charcoal | Charcoal |
| Smoker Style | Vertical | Vertical | Vertical | – | Vertical | Vertical | Vertical |
| Features | Offset Smoker | Offset Smoker, Digital Controller | Offset Smoker | Offset Smoker | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe, Wi-Fi, Digital Controller | Offset Smoker | Offset Smoker |
| Grill Type | – | – | – | Infrared | – | – | Built-In |
| Use | Smoker | Smoker | Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Smoker | Smoker | Grilling, Smoker |
| Color | Red Hammertone | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Shape | – | Square | Square | – | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 22 × 23 × 47 inches | 19.9 × 25.6 × 41.3 inches | 22.8 × 28.7 × 53 inches | 23.1 × 23.4 × 36.2 inches | 19.8 × 23.2 × 47 inches | 21 × 43.3 × 50.2 inches | 27 × 43.8 × 51.5 inches |
| Weight | 63 pounds | – | 92 pounds | 22.7 pounds | 74.6 pounds | 83 pounds | 102 pounds |
| Size | 880 sq inches | 40-inch Digital | 40 inch | Standard | 42 Inch | Wide | 961 SQ.IN. Cooking Area |
| Model | 10773 | MB20072918 | MB20051316 | 14101550 | 11085 | DGO1890BDC-D | – |
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the largest cooking capacity?
The MFSTUDIO Vertical Charcoal Smoker provides the largest capacity with 961 square inches of cooking area. It is the widest option in this group, measuring 43.8 inches across. This extra space suits those smoking large batches of meat simultaneously. The Pit Boss 3-Series offers 880 square inches, which is slightly smaller but still substantial for most backyard needs.
How does the Pit Boss 4-Series differ from the 3-Series?
The Pit Boss 4-Series adds digital precision and connectivity to the vertical design. It includes a digital controller, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a meat probe for remote monitoring. The 3-Series relies on manual gas controls and lacks smart features. The 4-Series also uses wood-fired flavor options alongside its digital management, offering more control than the simpler 3-Series model.
What is the best propane option for large batches?
The Masterbuilt 40-inch Propane Vertical Smoker is the top propane choice for volume. It features an 850+ square inch cooking area and a robust 92-pound build. Its 53-inch height allows for stacking more racks than many competitors. This unit prioritizes raw capacity and manual propane heat over digital interfaces, making it ideal for serious backyard smokers who need space.
Which smoker is best for small patios?
The Charbroil TRU-Infrared 3-in-1 Gas Grill is the most compact option. It weighs only 22.7 pounds and measures 23.4 inches wide. This small footprint makes it suitable for limited outdoor spaces. It also offers versatility by switching between grilling, roasting, and smoking, which saves space compared to owning multiple dedicated appliances.
Does any alternative include a digital temperature controller?
Yes, both the Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker and the Pit Boss 4-Series feature digital controllers. The Masterbuilt unit uses electric power for automated temperature consistency. The Pit Boss 4-Series combines digital control with wood-fired flavor and Wi-Fi connectivity. These features allow you to monitor and adjust heat precisely without constant manual intervention.
What is the heaviest smoker in this list?
The MFSTUDIO Vertical Charcoal Smoker is the heaviest at 102 pounds. Its substantial weight comes from its large 961 square inch capacity and wide 43.8-inch body. This stability suits users who want a permanent, high-capacity charcoal setup. In comparison, the Charbroil grill is much lighter at 22.7 pounds, while the Pit Boss 3-Series sits in the middle at 63 pounds.
Can I use charcoal in any of these alternatives?
The Dyna-Glo Wide Body and the MFSTUDIO Vertical Charcoal Smokers both use charcoal fuel. The Dyna-Glo offers a traditional offset design with 83 pounds of steel. The MFSTUDIO provides a larger 961 square inch area with an offset firebox. These models are ideal for cooks who prefer manual temperature adjustment and traditional charcoal smoke flavor over gas or electric convenience.
See also
Prices and specifications on this page are read from the Amazon product listing and can change at any time. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback. Nobody at this site handled or measured these products.
