Best Smoker BBQs Australia 2026

Updated 5 comparedBy Bikram Nath

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Quick answer

Our top pick for the best smoker BBQs in Australia is the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker 22-Inch. We have not confirmed a current Amazon.com.au listing for it, so its link opens an Amazon search for the model named.

Editor's choice

Weber

Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker 22-Inch

The industry standard for consistent, delicious smoked meats—ideal for Australian families new to smoking.

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On this page

Smoking has become increasingly popular across Australia, with backyard barbecuing culture embracing slow-cooked meats and authentic flavour. Australian conditions—intense sun, coastal salt air, and variable temperatures across regions—require smokers that can handle the climate while delivering consistent results. Whether you're in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, finding the right smoker for your space and budget is essential. This guide covers the best smoker BBQs, ranging from entry-level charcoal models to premium ceramic and offset options. Each recommendation balances initial investment with long-term durability and ease of use.

At a glance

  1. 1

    Excellent temperature control and even heat distribution

  2. 2

    Ceramic construction retains heat efficiently in all Australian climates

  3. 3

    Large cooking capacity suits extended family gatherings

  4. 4

    Offset firebox design produces authentic smoky flavour without direct heat

  5. 5

    Set-and-forget PID temperature control — easiest smoker to operate

Our 5 picks for the best smoker BBQs in Australia

#1Top pick

Weber

Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker 22-Inch

Top Pick
Beginners learning to smoke

The industry standard for consistent, delicious smoked meats—ideal for Australian families new to smoking.

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We have not confirmed a current Amazon.com.au listing for this model. Check the details on the seller’s page.

Cooking Area663 cm² (102 sq in)
MaterialSteel with porcelain-enamel coating
Height102 cm
Weight27 kg

Pros

  • Excellent temperature control and even heat distribution
  • Durable porcelain-enamel coating resists rust in Australian coastal conditions

Cons

  • Charcoal-only design requires more fuel management than pellet models
  • Smaller cooking area compared to offset smokers
#2

Kamado Joe

Kamado Joe Classic 18-Inch

Best Value Premium

Premium ceramic smoker delivering restaurant-quality results for serious Australian BBQ enthusiasts.

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Cooking Area770 cm² (120 sq in)
MaterialCeramic with stainless steel hardware
Height88 cm
Weight35 kg

Pros

  • Ceramic construction retains heat efficiently in all Australian climates
  • Versatile: smoke, grill, and bake in one unit
  • Premium build quality with excellent longevity

Cons

  • Higher upfront cost than entry-level smokers
  • Ceramic is heavy; requires stable placement on Australian decks
#3

Char-Griller

Char-Griller Smokin' Pro Offset Smoker

Budget Pick

Best budget offset smoker for Australian backyard pitmasters seeking traditional Texas-style smoking.

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Link checked on against this model’s Amazon.com.au listing. The other details here were not taken from that listing, so check them there.

MaterialHeavy-gauge steel

Pros

  • Large cooking capacity suits extended family gatherings
  • Offset firebox design distributes heat evenly across the main chamber
  • Budget-friendly entry point for serious smoking

Cons

  • Requires more wood management and temperature skill
  • Steel construction needs regular seasoning to prevent rust in humid Australian conditions
#4

Oklahoma Joe's

Oklahoma Joe's Highland Offset Smoker

Large-batch offset smoking

Best traditional offset smoker — for experienced pitmasters who want authentic American-style BBQ in Australia.

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TypeOffset smoker + grill
Cooking area5,316 cm² total
FuelCharcoal/wood
MaterialHeavy-gauge steel
FeaturesOffset firebox, multiple dampers, temperature gauge

Pros

  • Offset firebox design produces authentic smoky flavour without direct heat
  • Massive 5,316 cm² cooking area handles competition-level quantities
  • Heavy-gauge steel retains heat better than thinner budget smokers

Cons

  • Requires significant fire management skill — not beginner-friendly
  • Heavy and bulky — not relocatable once positioned
  • Needs regular seasoning to prevent rust in humid Australian climates
#5

Z Grills

Z Grills 700D3 Wood Pellet Smoker

Set-and-forget ease

Best beginner smoker — the PID controller removes the learning curve while still delivering genuine wood-smoked results.

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TypePellet smoker/grill
Cooking area3,252 cm²
FuelHardwood pellets
Temp range80–230°C
FeaturesPID controller, auto-ignition, hopper cleanout

Pros

  • Set-and-forget PID temperature control — easiest smoker to operate
  • Versatile temperature range covers smoking, roasting, baking, and grilling

Cons

  • Requires 240V power — not suitable for remote camping locations
  • Pellet consumption can be high at maximum temperatures
  • Purists argue pellet smoke flavour is less intense than stick-burning

How to choose the best smoker BBQs in Australia

  1. 1Choose between charcoal, pellet, or offset designs based on your space—Australian backyards vary from compact apartments to sprawling properties
  2. 2Consider Australian weather: opt for weatherproof materials and covers to protect against intense UV exposure and coastal salt air
  3. 3Verify spare parts availability through Australian retailers before purchase, as importing replacements can be costly and slow
  4. 4Check assembly and installation support—many premium models require proper setup in Australian conditions to perform optimally
  5. 5Factor in fuel availability: charcoal and wood chips are accessible nationwide, while pellet fuel options are more limited outside major cities
  6. 6Australian outdoor cooking is year-round — look for rust-resistant materials like 304 stainless steel or porcelain-coated steel that withstand coastal salt air and UV exposure
  7. 7Gas BBQs in Australia typically use LPG (propane) cylinders — make sure the BBQ includes an Australian-standard POL fitting or adaptor for your gas bottle
  8. 8Council regulations vary on BBQ placement — many Australian councils require gas BBQs to be at least 1 metre from boundary fences and away from eaves or overhanging structures
  9. 9Heat output is measured in megajoules per hour (MJ/h) in Australia — a 4-burner BBQ should deliver at least 40 MJ/h for effective high-heat searing
  10. 10Built-in wind shields matter in exposed Australian backyards — coastal suburbs and elevated areas experience gusts that can extinguish burners without protection

Editor's note

Smoking in Australia means adapting to extreme sun, humidity, and coastal conditions. Ceramic models like Kamado Joe excel in heat retention across variable Australian climates—from cool Tasmanian winters to intense Queensland summers. Offset smokers suit larger entertaining but demand skill and dedication. Whichever you choose, invest in a quality cover to protect against UV degradation and salt spray, especially near the coast. Local Facebook BBQ groups in each state offer proven fuel supplier recommendations and troubleshooting advice tailored to regional conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best smoker for Australian weather and coastal conditions?

Ceramic smokers like Kamado Joe resist rust and salt air better than steel, while the Weber Smokey Mountain's enamel coating handles UV well. All require protective covers in coastal regions. Charcoal and offset designs work across Australia—choose based on space and skill level rather than climate alone.

Do I need permits or restrictions to install a smoker in my Australian home?

Most councils allow backyard smokers without permits, but check your local council website—some suburbs have restrictions on open fires or placement near fences. Strata or apartment living may have additional rules. Installation on decks requires proper ventilation and clearance from structures to prevent heat damage.

What gas connections do Australian BBQs use?

Australian BBQs typically use LPG (propane) with a POL fitting or the newer Type 27 bayonet connection. Natural gas BBQs require a licensed gasfitter for connection. Always check which gas type your BBQ supports before purchasing.

Further reading

Not paid for

No brand pays to appear in a guide or to rank higher in one. Commission rates never decide a ranking.

Desk research, not testing

We do not test products. Check the details on the seller’s listing before you buy.

Aussie availability

Stock on Amazon.com.au moves fast — check availability before you buy.

Affiliate disclosure: AUPicks may earn a commission from links on this page at no extra cost to you. This never influences our rankings. Curated by Bikram Nath · Last updated .

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Top pick

Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker 22-Inch

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