Best Time to Buy Smokers (2026 Guide)
Save 30-50% on Smokers by timing your purchase right. Here's exactly when to buy.
Smokers are a significant investment for any backyard cook, but their prices fluctuate dramatically throughout the year. By understanding seasonal trends and key sales events, you can save 30-50% off the regular price. In this guide, we'll break down the best months to buy, highlight top products, and provide actionable tips to ensure you get the best deal.
Executive Summary
The best time to buy Smokers is during the end-of-summer clearance in August-September and Black Friday in November. You can save 30-50% compared to peak spring prices. If you can't wait, consider Prime Day in July or January clearance sales for solid discounts.
Why Timing Matters
Smokers follow a clear seasonal cycle. Demand peaks in spring and early summer when grilling season begins, pushing prices to their highest. Retailers slash prices in late summer to clear inventory for new models, and Black Friday offers deep discounts. Waiting just a few months can save you $100-$500 or more. For example, a $1,000 smoker may drop to $700 in clearance sales.
Best Time to Buy: End-of-Summer Clearance (August-September) and Black Friday (November)
Expected Savings: 30-50%
During August and September, retailers clear out current-year models to make room for next year's inventory. This is the deepest discount period for smokers, often 40-60% off. Black Friday in November also offers comparable deals, especially on pellet and electric smokers. Many retailers combine clearance with holiday sales for even bigger savings.
What to Expect:
- Up to 50% off last year's models
- Bundled deals with accessories (cover, pellets, tools)
- Free shipping on large items
- Limited stock on popular models
- Price matching between major retailers
- Extended warranties offered
Alternative: Prime Day (July) and January Clearance (January-February)
Prime Day in mid-July offers significant discounts on Amazon-exclusive models and popular brands. It's a good middle ground if you need a smoker sooner. January clearance is when retailers discount leftover holiday inventory and older models, typically 20-30% off.
Worst Time to Buy
The worst time to buy a smoker is during peak grilling season from April through June. Demand is at its highest, so retailers rarely discount new models. You'll pay full retail or only see 5-10% off. Also, avoid buying right before a major sale event (like October before Black Friday) as prices may be inflated. If you can wait, you'll save significantly.
Month-by-Month Breakdown
Recommended Products
1. Traeger Pro 575 Pellet Grill
The Traeger Pro 575 is a powerhouse pellet smoker that combines 575 sq in of cooking space with advanced WiFIRE technology. You can control temperature, monitor cook times, and access recipes directly from your smartphone. Its D2 controller offers precise temperature control from 165°F to 500°F. Perfect for beginners and pros who want convenience. Best time to buy: During Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday for up to 30% off.
Best Time to Buy: Best bought during Black Friday or Prime Day for 20-30% off.
2. Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker 18-Inch
The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker (WSM) is a charcoal smoker that delivers authentic smoky flavor. Its bullet design with two cooking grates provides 481 sq in of space. The water pan helps regulate temperature and keeps meat moist. A favorite among barbecue purists. Best time to buy: During August clearance or Black Friday for 25-35% off.
Best Time to Buy: Look for discounts in August or September when retailers clear summer inventory.
3. Masterbuilt Electric Smoker 30-Inch
The Masterbuilt 30-inch Electric Smoker is a budget-friendly entry point for smoking. It offers 730 sq in of cooking space and four chrome-coated racks. Digital controls let you set temperature and time, while the built-in meat probe ensures perfect doneness. Wood chip loading is easy with the side tray. Perfect for beginners. Best time to buy: On Prime Day or Black Friday for 20-30% off.
Best Time to Buy: Prime Day in July typically has great deals on electric smokers.
4. Pit Boss 700FB Pellet Grill
The Pit Boss 700FB is a feature-packed pellet grill that can smoke, grill, bake, roast, braise, BBQ, and sear. With 700 sq in of cooking space and a digital control board, it's easy to use. The sear slider allows direct flame grilling. A great all-in-one solution. Best time to buy: Currently on sale; future deals expected during Black Friday.
Best Time to Buy: Currently on sale; if you miss this, Black Friday will bring similar discounts.
5. Char-Griller 1224 Smokin' Champ
The Char-Griller Smokin' Champ is an affordable offset smoker that delivers authentic smoke flavor. With 250 sq in of primary cooking area plus a side firebox, it's great for small gatherings. The steel construction is durable. Perfect for beginners on a budget. Best time to buy: During clearance in August or holiday sales for 30-50% off.
Best Time to Buy: Buy in August or after Labor Day for best prices (often under $150).
6. Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett Pellet Grill
The Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett is a compact, portable pellet grill that can be powered by AC or 12V battery. With 219 sq in of cooking space and WiFi control via the GMG app, you can smoke on the go. It's lightweight and folds up for easy transport. Best time to buy: Black Friday or Prime Day for 20-30% off.
Best Time to Buy: Black Friday often sees this under $350.
7. Smokin-It Model #1 Electric Smoker
The Smokin-It Model #1 is a well-insulated electric smoker that uses very little electricity. It has a 6.5 lb capacity (but can hold more due to design) and features a simple analog control. The stainless steel interior is easy to clean. It's built to last. Best time to buy: Direct from manufacturer sales or Black Friday for 15-20% off.
Best Time to Buy: Look for markdowns during Black Friday or holiday sales.
8. Oklahoma Joe's Longhorn Combo Charcoal/Gas Smoker & Grill
The Oklahoma Joe's Longhorn Combo is a heavy-duty offset smoker on one side and a gas grill on the other. With 969 sq in total cooking space, it's ideal for large gatherings. The charcoal smoker produces authentic flavor while the gas grill offers convenience. Best time to buy: Labor Day or Black Friday for 30-40% off.
Best Time to Buy: Buy during Labor Day sales in September for best price.
9. Z GRILLS 7002C Pellet Grill
The Z GRILLS 7002C is a budget-friendly pellet grill that offers 700 sq in of cooking space. The digital controller with PID technology maintains temperature within 5°F. It also includes a meat probe and ash cleanout system. A solid choice for those entering pellet smoking without breaking the bank. Best time to buy: Prime Day or Black Friday for 25-40% off.
Best Time to Buy: Prime Day in July often discounts Z GRILLS models significantly.
10. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 Digital Charcoal Grill + Smoker
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 combines the flavor of charcoal with the convenience of digital controls. The gravity-fed hopper automatically feeds charcoal, maintaining set temperature. With 560 sq in of cooking space, it can smoke, grill, sear, and bake. The app allows remote monitoring. Best time to buy: Prime Day or Black Friday for 20-30% off.
Best Time to Buy: Black Friday deals typically bring this under $500.
Pricing Strategies
Wait for End-of-Summer Clearance
Research models you like in spring,Set price alerts on CamelCamelCamel,Check Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe's daily in August,Buy when price hits 40%+ off
Black Friday Shopping
Create a shortlist of desired models,Monitor deal forums and price trackers,Be ready to buy early on Black Friday,Use price matching if buying from a competitor
Prime Day Deals
Ensure Prime membership is active,Add items to wishlist weeks before,Check Lightning Deals frequently,Compare with other retailers for price matching
Buy Off-Season (Winter)
Check clearance sections online and in stores,Look for open-box or refurbished units,Be flexible with model and color,Buy and store until spring
Model Refresh Timing
Follow manufacturer news on new releases,Contact retailers for clearance dates,Purchase when price drops on older models,Check for closeout sales at discount chains
If You Need It Now
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Bottom Line
The absolute best time to buy a smoker is during the end-of-summer clearance (August-September) and Black Friday (November), where you can save 30-60% off regular prices. If you can't wait, Prime Day in July and January clearance are solid alternatives. Avoid buying in spring (April-June) when prices are highest. Use price tracking tools to confirm deals, and consider open-box or refurbished options if you need one immediately. With a little patience, you can get a high-quality smoker for hundreds less.
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Smokers