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Smokers vs Grills: What’s the Real Difference?


Silver grill with text "SMOKERS vs GRILLS" and "What’s the difference?" overlaid. Logo for Mathews BBQ Supply at the bottom.

If you’re serious about BBQ, you’ve probably heard people throw around terms like grilled, smoked, or even grill-smoked. But what really sets smoked meat apart from grilled? Is one better than the other? And which method is best for your backyard setup?

Let’s break it down — from cook time and flavor to the gear you’ll need — so you can choose the right method for your next BBQ session.



The Basics: Grilling vs. Smoking

Method

Heat Level

Cook Time

Flavor Profile

Best For

Grilling

High heat

Fast (mins)

Charred, juicy

Steaks, burgers, veggies

Smoking

Low & slow

Long (hours)

Deep, smoky, tender

Brisket, ribs, pork butt



What Is Grilling?


Grilling is high-heat cooking, typically done over direct flames or hot coals. It’s quick, sears the outside of your food, and is perfect for anything that cooks in under 30 minutes.


Think:

  • Burgers

  • Steaks

  • Chicken thighs

  • Veggie skewers

  • Hot dogs


Grilling is all about crust, color, and char. It’s the go-to for weeknight dinners, casual cookouts, and that satisfying sizzle you hear the second food hits the grate.


Grill Tip: Want bold flavor fast? Try our [signature BBQ rubs] — they’re formulated to stand up to high heat without burning.


What Is Smoking?


Smoking uses indirect, low heat and wood smoke to slowly cook meat over several hours — sometimes even overnight. The result? Tender, fall-off-the-bone meat with a rich, deep smoke flavor.


Ideal cuts for smoking:

  • Beef brisket

  • Pork shoulder (for pulled pork)

  • Baby back ribs

  • Whole chicken or turkey

  • Sausages


Smoking is more of an art — and a serious commitment. You’ll need patience and the right gear, but the payoff is next-level BBQ.


Want to try smoking for the first time? Our [charcoal smokers and wood chip bundles] are perfect for beginners and pitmasters alike.


What About Flavor?


The flavor differences are huge.

Grilled food tastes bold, flame-kissed, and slightly smoky (if you’re using charcoal or wood chunks).


Smoked food is infused with a deeper woodsy flavor — whether it’s hickory, apple, mesquite, or cherry wood. Smoking also helps break down tough cuts of meat, making them super tender.


Pro Flavor Tip: Don’t mix woods randomly. Pair applewood with pork, mesquite with beef, and cherry with poultry for best results.


Time Commitment


Grilling:Quick and convenient. Most meals are done in 10–30 minutes. Ideal for weeknight meals or impromptu get-togethers.


Smoking:Plan ahead. Smoking can take 4 to 16 hours, depending on what you’re cooking. It's perfect for weekends or special occasions when you want to impress.



Tools You’ll Need

Gear

Grilling

Smoking

Grill (Gas/Charcoal)

✔️ Required

Optional (for grill smoking)

Smoker

❌ Not needed

✔️ Required (offset, pellet, etc.)

Meat Thermometer

✔️ Recommended

✔️ Essential

Wood Chips/Chunks

Optional (adds flavor)

✔️ Core ingredient

Grill Tongs & Tools

✔️ Yes

✔️ Yes

Need an upgrade? Check out our [BBQ gear] for everything from cast-iron grates to digital thermometers that help you nail the cook every time.



So, Which One’s Better?


It depends on what you're going for:

  • Grilling is perfect for quick meals, weeknight dinners, and classic cookouts.

  • Smoking is the way to go when you want deep flavor, tender texture, and a show-stopping BBQ centerpiece.


Honestly? Most serious BBQ lovers end up doing both — and having the right tools for each method is key.



Ready to Master Both?


Whether you’re flipping burgers or smoking brisket all weekend long, we’ve got you covered with top-quality BBQ tools, smokers, charcoal, and accessories that make backyard cooking fun, flavorful, and fuss-free.



Final Thoughts


Understanding the difference between smoking and grilling helps you get the most out of your BBQ setup — and seriously ups your flavor game. Whichever method you choose, just remember: great BBQ starts with good prep, the right gear, and a whole lot of love.

Happy grilling (or smoking)!

 
 
 

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