DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker 714 sq in Review: The Ultimate Backyard BBQ & Smoking Hub?

There’s a moment every aspiring pitmaster experiences. It’s that first bite of truly authentic, low-and-slow smoked barbecue—the kind with a deep smoke ring, a peppery bark, and meat so tender it yields with a gentle nudge. You try to replicate it on a standard kettle grill, fiddling with two-zone fires and foil-wrapped wood chips, but it’s never quite the same. The flavor is fleeting, the temperature control is a constant battle, and the results are inconsistent. That’s the wall I hit years ago. We wanted the versatility of a grill for Tuesday night burgers with the kids and the deep, soulful flavor of a dedicated smoker for weekend brisket projects. The problem? Our patio space and budget couldn’t accommodate two separate, large cookers. This is the exact dilemma the DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker 714 sq in aims to solve: offering the best of both worlds in a single, affordable package.

What to Consider Before Buying a Charcoal Grill with an Offset Smoker

A charcoal grill with an offset smoker is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for unlocking a world of authentic, wood-fired flavor. It’s a commitment to a more hands-on, rewarding style of cooking that gas grills simply can’t replicate. The main benefit is versatility. The main chamber serves as a large-capacity charcoal grill for direct searing of steaks and burgers. When you want to smoke, you build a small, controlled fire in the side firebox, allowing only heat and smoke to drift into the main chamber for true indirect cooking. This setup is perfect for everything from smoked ribs and pulled pork to Thanksgiving turkey, providing a deep, complex flavor profile that is the hallmark of classic American barbecue. It turns your backyard into a culinary playground.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the desire for authentic smoking capabilities without wanting to sacrifice the utility of a standard grill. They are patient, enjoy the process of tending a fire, and are excited by the prospect of learning to control temperature and smoke for incredible results. This might be a family looking to upgrade their grilling game for weekend cookouts or an enthusiast ready to dive into the world of smoking. However, it might not be suitable for those who prioritize speed and convenience above all else. If you want to walk out, turn a knob, and be cooking in five minutes, a gas grill might be a better fit. Similarly, if you have a very small patio or balcony, the larger footprint of an offset smoker could be prohibitive.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: An offset smoker has a significant footprint. The DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker 714 sq in measures 50.78″ wide, so you need to ensure you have adequate, stable ground space on your patio or in your yard. Measure your intended area carefully, accounting for clearance from flammable surfaces and enough room to comfortably open the lids and access the firebox.
• Capacity/Performance: Total cooking area is a key metric. 714 square inches is a generous amount of space, easily accommodating multiple racks of ribs, a large brisket, or enough burgers and hot dogs for a large family gathering. Consider not just the total area, but how it’s divided between the main chamber and the warming rack. Performance hinges on heat retention and airflow control, which we’ll dive into later.
• Materials & Durability: Look for heavy-gauge steel for the body to ensure better heat retention and longevity. A powder-coated finish helps resist rust and high temperatures. Grate material is also crucial; porcelain-enameled grates, like those on this DNKMOR model, are easier to clean and resist sticking, while cast iron offers superior heat searing but requires more maintenance.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Features like a built-in thermometer, adjustable dampers, and an easy-access door for the firebox make the cooking process much smoother. After the cook, cleanup is a major factor. Look for removable ash pans and durable grates that can withstand vigorous scrubbing. Long-term care involves keeping the grill covered and periodically checking for any signs of rust.

While the DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker 714 sq in is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing and Assembling the DNKMOR Beast

Upon arrival, the box for the DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker 714 sq in is substantial, weighing in at just under 50 pounds. Unpacking the components, we were met with a collection of powder-coated steel parts, grates, and hardware. The finish felt smooth and consistent, a good initial sign for a grill in this price range. Assembly is a required step, and as one user noted, “putting this together was a lot,” which is a fair assessment for any grill of this size. However, we found the process to be straightforward. Another user confirmed our experience, stating, “The assembly was easy it mostly came together it was just putting them together and the stickers on them are a big help.” The labeled parts were indeed a huge advantage, eliminating the guesswork that plagues so many self-assembly projects. It took us about an hour and a half with standard hand tools. Once assembled, the grill feels surprisingly solid and stable, and the wheels make it easy enough for one person to maneuver into position. The overall aesthetic is classic and functional, exactly what you’d expect from a backyard workhorse. You can see its full feature set and user reviews before making a decision.

A Deep Dive into the DNKMOR Grill’s Performance

A grill’s true worth is only revealed through fire, smoke, and food. We put the DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker 714 sq in through a series of demanding tests, from high-heat searing to a marathon low-and-slow smoking session, to see if its performance matches its promising feature list.

Assembly and Build Quality: A Solid Foundation

As mentioned, the assembly process was manageable. The instructions were clear, and the labeled parts made it a far cry from the frustrating furniture builds of nightmares past. Once everything was tightened down, the main body felt secure. The legs provide a stable base, and we didn’t experience any significant wobble when moving it around the patio on its two large wheels. The alloy steel construction with its powder-coated finish feels appropriate for its price point. It’s not the tank-like, quarter-inch steel you’d find on a competition-grade smoker costing thousands, but it’s a definite step up from flimsy, bargain-bin grills. The porcelain-enameled cooking grates feel substantial and were a breeze to season and clean. We particularly appreciated the thoughtful design elements, like the cool-touch spring handles on the lids and the convenient front and side tables for prep space. One user review mentioned a potential weak point regarding a weld on the smokestack flap failing during their first use. While our unit’s welds held up perfectly throughout our rigorous testing, it’s a valid point to consider. We inspected all the welds closely and found them to be adequate, but it highlights that some smaller components on budget-friendly smokers may not have the same robust construction as the main body. For the price, however, the overall build quality provides excellent value, offering a sturdy platform to begin your smoking journey. Checking the latest price and availability can help put this value into perspective.

Grilling Performance and Heat Management

First, we tested its capabilities as a standard charcoal grill. The main chamber is spacious, allowing for easy creation of a two-zone fire—a crucial technique for any serious griller. We piled hot coals on one side for searing and left the other side empty for indirect cooking. The star of the show here is the 4-position adjustable charcoal tray. Using the external crank handles, we could raise the entire coal bed right up under the grates for a perfect, crusty sear on thick-cut ribeyes. Then, for more delicate items like chicken thighs, we lowered the tray to reduce the heat intensity and prevent burning, finishing them on the indirect side. This level of control is a feature often found on more expensive models and is a massive advantage for the DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker 714 sq in. The built-in thermometer is a useful guide, though as with any lid-mounted thermometer, we recommend using a dual-probe digital thermometer at grate level for true accuracy. The combination of the adjustable tray and the side air vent gave us precise control over the fire, allowing us to maintain a steady 400°F for grilling with minimal fuss. Cleanup was also straightforward, with the large ash pan sliding out for easy disposal.

The Offset Smoker Experience: Low and Slow Success

This is where the DNKMOR truly shines. We embarked on an 8-hour smoke session with a 10-pound pork shoulder to see if it could handle a true low-and-slow cook. We loaded the offset firebox with a base of lump charcoal and a few chunks of hickory wood. Managing the fire in the side box is the heart of offset smoking, and this unit made it intuitive. The side door allows for adding more fuel without opening the main chamber and losing precious heat and smoke. The airflow is controlled by a vent on the firebox door and the smokestack damper. By making small adjustments, we were able to dial in and maintain a consistent temperature of 250°F for hours. Heat and smoke circulation from the firebox into the main chamber was surprisingly even. There’s a slight temperature gradient, with the side closer to the firebox being hotter, but this is typical of all offset smokers and can be used to your advantage. After 8 hours, our pork shoulder had a gorgeous, dark mahogany bark and was perfectly tender. The flavor was deeply smoky and authentic—a result that is simply unattainable on a standard kettle grill. The sheer capacity means you could easily smoke three or four racks of ribs and a chicken at the same time, making it an incredible tool for backyard parties. This dual-functionality is a feature that really sets it apart in its class.

Usability and Convenience Features

Beyond its core cooking functions, a grill’s usability is defined by the small details, and DNKMOR got most of them right. The front and side tables are invaluable. We constantly found ourselves using the front table for trays of food and the side table for our tools, rubs, and sauces. The integrated “S” hooks on the side table are a simple but brilliant touch for hanging tongs and spatulas, keeping them within arm’s reach. The warming rack inside the main chamber is another versatile component. We used it to keep finished burgers warm while grilling the next batch and to toast buns just before serving. The cool-touch handles worked as advertised, allowing us to open the hot lids without needing a glove every time. The large, spoked wheels are a step up from the small plastic casters on many grills, making it easy to roll the 48-pound unit across uneven patio pavers or a grassy lawn without much effort. These thoughtful additions combine to create a cooking experience that feels less like a chore and more like a pleasure, which is exactly what backyard barbecue should be. It’s clear that this grill was designed by people who actually cook outdoors, and you can explore its complete design and specifications to see all the details.

What Other Users Are Saying

Our positive experience with the DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker 714 sq in is echoed by many users. One happy owner shared, “This grill has been perfect for us. We have used so many times for grilling with our kids and family. It has been perfect.” This speaks directly to its reliability and suitability as a central hub for family gatherings. They also praised the assembly, noting that the labeled parts were a “big help,” which directly mirrors our own findings. It’s encouraging to see that the grill delivers on its promise of being a family-friendly workhorse.

However, no product is without its potential flaws. A more critical review pointed out a durability concern: “My first use the smoke stack flip must have melted off…it was welded on.” While we did not encounter this issue, it highlights a potential quality control variance in smaller, non-structural components. This is a common trade-off in more budget-oriented grills, where the focus is on the core cooking body rather than perfecting every minor weld. It serves as a good reminder to inspect all parts upon assembly and to manage expectations regarding the longevity of smaller, moving parts compared to more expensive, heavily-built smokers.

How Does the DNKMOR Grill Compare to the Competition?

The DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker 714 sq in operates in a competitive space. To understand its true value, it’s essential to see how it stacks up against some of the other popular options available. Each alternative offers a different blend of features, size, and focus, catering to slightly different backyard chefs.

1. Captiva Designs Extra Large Charcoal BBQ Grill Oversize Cooking Area

The Captiva Designs grill is a direct competitor for those who prioritize grilling space above all else. With a slightly larger 794 sq. in. cooking area, it’s a true grilling powerhouse. Its standout feature is the dual, independently adjustable charcoal trays, allowing you to create two distinct heat zones with even more precision than the DNKMOR. However, it lacks a key feature: the offset smoker box. This makes the Captiva Designs model a superior choice for someone who primarily grills directly and wants maximum control for searing and indirect cooking in a single chamber. If your barbecue dreams are filled with burgers, steaks, and chicken rather than smoked brisket and ribs, this grill’s focused design and extra space might be the better fit for your needs.

2. Royal Gourmet CC2036F Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker

If the DNKMOR is for the family pitmaster, the Royal Gourmet CC2036F is for the neighborhood barbecue champion. This is a significant step up in size and capacity, boasting a colossal 1200 sq. in. of total cooking space. It’s built for entertaining large crowds. The overall design philosophy is similar to the DNKMOR, with a barrel-style main chamber and an offset firebox, but everything is scaled up. This extra size and heavier construction will likely lead to better heat retention, but also comes with a larger footprint and a higher price tag. This model is the ideal choice for the enthusiast who regularly cooks for large events and needs the capacity to handle multiple briskets or dozens of burgers at once. For the average family, it might be overkill, but for the serious entertainer, it’s a worthy upgrade.

3. Royal Gourmet CC1830FC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker

The Royal Gourmet CC1830FC is perhaps the most direct competitor to the DNKMOR, offering a very similar feature set in a slightly more compact and established package. It’s a classic, no-frills offset smoker that has been a popular choice for beginners for years. While its total cooking area is often listed similarly, the physical footprint is typically a bit smaller. The primary difference often comes down to specific features and build quality at the time of purchase. The DNKMOR’s inclusion of a 4-position adjustable charcoal tray is a significant functional advantage over many standard versions of the CC1830FC. This Royal Gourmet model is an excellent choice for someone looking for a proven, basic entry into offset smoking, but the DNKMOR offers a bit more refinement and heat control features that can make the learning process easier and more versatile. Comparing the DNKMOR’s features side-by-side with this classic model really highlights its value.

Final Verdict: Is the DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker 714 sq in Right for You?

After extensive testing, grilling, and smoking, we can confidently say that the DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker 714 sq in is a fantastic value and a truly versatile backyard cooker. Its greatest strength lies in its ability to perform both as a spacious, controllable charcoal grill and as a legitimate offset smoker capable of producing authentic, delicious barbecue. The generous cooking area, adjustable charcoal tray, and thoughtful convenience features make it a joy to use for both quick weeknight meals and ambitious weekend projects. While it may not have the tank-like build of a premium smoker, its construction is more than adequate for years of regular use, offering a gateway to the world of smoking without a massive financial commitment.

We recommend the DNKMOR Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker 714 sq in for any family or enthusiast looking to upgrade their grilling game and dive headfirst into the rewarding world of low-and-slow smoking. It strikes an incredible balance between size, functionality, and price. If you’re ready to stop dreaming about that perfect smoke ring and start creating it yourself, this grill is one of the best starting points you’ll find. Ready to transform your backyard cooking? Check the latest price and get ready to fire up your new DNKMOR grill.