RYHOFOUD 19-Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker Grill Review: A Budget Bullet Smoker
Disclosure: CookingDownHome is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through links on this page we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
How we review: this is a researched review. We have not tested this unit hands-on; it is based on manufacturer specifications, the owner’s manual, retailer listings and patterns in verified-buyer reviews. Last checked: November 1, 2026.
Availability note: The primary Amazon link below points to the current RYHOFOUD RF01 listing (ASIN B0FP4SV1Z4, ~4.3★). An older listing of the same design (B0CN6N9CTF) still exists but has a lower rating (~3.3★); we recommend the current RF01 listing.
This is a low-cost, two-rack vertical (‘bullet’ style) charcoal smoker sold on Amazon. It’s aimed at beginners and campers who want to try smoking without spending Weber Smokey Mountain money.
Quick verdict
A fine beginner or camping smoker at the price, as long as expectations are modest. Buy the better-rated current listing, and add a probe thermometer.
Key specifications
| Type | Vertical charcoal bullet smoker / grill |
|---|---|
| Size | 19-in round; ~20 x 20 x 31.5 in |
| Weight | ~11 lb (lightweight steel) |
| Grates | 2 cooking grates + S-hooks for hanging |
| Thermometer | Lid-mounted gauge |
| Fuel | Charcoal / wood chunks |
| Warranty | 1 year (seller claim) |
| Price | Roughly $35–$55 depending on listing |
Who it’s for
- First-time smokers who want to learn on a cheap unit
- Campers and tailgaters who need something light
- Small cooks: a few racks of ribs, chicken, sausages
Who should skip it
- Anyone wanting stable 12-hour brisket cooks—thin steel loses heat in wind and cold
- Buyers who expect premium build quality
- People feeding large groups
Pros
- Very inexpensive
- Light and easy to move
- Two levels plus hanging hooks add flexibility
- Lower section can be used as a basic grill
Cons
- Thin steel; heat and smoke leakage reported by buyers
- Mixed ratings on the older listing
- Built-in dial thermometers are often inaccurate—use a probe
- Limited capacity
Alternatives worth considering
- Weber Smokey Mountain 14/18 in (much better build, far higher price)
- Char-Griller or Masterbuilt budget vertical smokers
- DNKMOR barrel charcoal grills for grilling-first buyers (our review)
FAQ
Is a cheap vertical smoker worth it?
For learning and short cooks, yes. For long low-and-slow cooks, thin steel makes temperature control harder.
How do I control temperature?
Use the vents, a measured amount of charcoal (Minion method), and a separate probe thermometer rather than the lid dial.
Can it grill as well as smoke?
Buyers report the lower section can be used as a basic charcoal grill.
Bottom line
A fine beginner or camping smoker at the price, as long as expectations are modest. Buy the better-rated current listing, and add a probe thermometer.
Sources: manufacturer product pages and manuals, Amazon listing (ASIN B0FP4SV1Z4), retailer spec sheets. Specs and prices change; confirm on the retailer page before buying.