Best Grill Grates for Smoker in 2026: 4 Picks Ranked by Specs

Quick picks

The best fit for you

• You want the most versatile cooking surface Kamado Joe Classic Reversible Cast Iron Griddle The 18.3-inch cast iron griddle offers broad surface area for breakfast items.
• You need a durable charcoal holder Charbrofire 9.75-Inch Cast Iron Fire Grate This 10-inch cast iron grate retains heat well for even temperature control.
• You own a Masterbuilt Gravity Series smoker COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Charcoal Grate The 9.8-inch steel grate restores proper airflow for your digital smoker.
• You require stable indirect cooking space Kamado Joe 18-Inch Stainless Steel Grate Expander This 15.5-inch stainless steel expander keeps food away from direct flames.

Our 4 picks

1 Best overall

Kamado Joe Classic Reversible Cast Iron Griddle

Best for: Kamado owners adding griddle space

Compatible Appliance

Griddle, Smoker (what this guide is about)

Compatible Grill

Kamado Joe Classic, Large Big Green Egg

Material

Cast iron

Dimensions

8.98 x 0.94 x 18.3 in

Grate Type

Griddle

Shape

Half-Moon

View on Amazon: Kamado Joe Classic Reversible Cast Iron Griddle Affiliate link

This reversible griddle features a smooth side for eggs and a ribbed side for steaks. It is made of heavy cast iron for steady heat retention. The half-moon shape fits Kamado Joe Classic and Large Big Green Egg smokers. It works with the Divide & Conquer system. You get an 18-inch cooking width. This setup adds versatile grilling options to your smoker.

Pros

• Reversible design with smooth and ribbed surfaces
• Heavy cast iron construction for heat retention
• Compatible with Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg smokers
• Fits the Divide & Conquer cooking system

Cons

• Half-moon shape limits total cooking area compared to full circles
• 7-pound weight makes handling difficult for some users
• Cast iron requires seasoning and maintenance to prevent rust

Good fit if

• You own a Kamado Joe Classic or Large Big Green Egg
• You want to cook breakfast items alongside smoked meats
• You prefer the heat stability of cast iron

Skip if

• You need a full 18-inch circular cooking surface
• You use a non-Kamado charcoal grill
• You prefer low-maintenance stainless steel cookware

Verdict: Kamado Joe Half-Moon Cast Iron Griddle adds versatile cooking options for Kamado owners. It suits those who want to grill breakfast items alongside their smoked meals.

2 Also great

Charbrofire 9.75-Inch Cast Iron Fire Grate

Best for: Kamado Joe Classic series charcoal replacement

Compatible Appliance

Smoker (what this guide is about)

Compatible Grill

Kamado Joe Classic I, II, III Series

Material

Cast iron

Dimensions

9-3/4"

Grate Type

Fire grate

Shape

Round

View on Amazon: Charbrofire 9.75-Inch Cast Iron Fire Grate Affiliate link

This matte enamel cast iron fire grate replaces the original charcoal holder in Kamado Joe Classic I, II, and III series smokers. Measuring 9.75 inches in diameter, it delivers even heat distribution and withstands high temperatures. The heavy-duty construction lasts for years, and the hole design catches ash for easier cleaning. You get a single piece that fits models like KJ-MFG23 and KJ23RH.

Pros

• Made of matte enamel cast iron for durability
• 9.75-inch diameter fits Kamado Joe Classic series
• Hole design catches ash for easier cleaning
• Withstands high heat and distributes it evenly

Cons

• Only includes one grate piece
• Requires non-metallic tools to prevent damage
• Fits only specific Kamado Joe models

Good fit if

• You own a Kamado Joe Classic I, II, or III smoker
• You want a durable cast iron replacement grate
• You prefer easy ash cleanup

Skip if

• You need a stainless steel grate
• You have a Kamado Joe Joe Jr. or Big Joe
• You want a grate larger than 9.75 inches

Verdict: Charbrofire Cast Iron Fire Grate for Kamado Joe is a solid replacement for owners of the Classic series smokers who need a durable, heat-retaining charcoal holder. It fits perfectly if you want to maintain even cooking temperatures and simplify ash removal.

3 Best budget

COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Charcoal Grate

Best for: Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, 1050 owners

Compatible Appliance

Smoker (what this guide is about)

Compatible Grill

Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 800 1050

Material

Steel

Dimensions

9.8" x 9.8"

Grate Type

Charcoal grate

Control Type

Digital

View on Amazon: COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Charcoal Grate Affiliate link

This COMVIEE charcoal grate replaces the original part in your Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, or 1050 digital smoker. Measuring 9.8 by 9.8 inches, it is made of steel to enhance airflow and burn charcoal efficiently. The design allows for precise temperature control during smoking. It installs without tools and meets OEM standards. You get a direct fit for your digital grill.

Pros

• Compatible with Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, and 1050 models
• Made of sturdy steel for durable performance
• Enhances airflow for consistent charcoal burning
• Tool-free installation meets OEM fit standards

Cons

• Limited to specific Masterbuilt Gravity Series models
• Only includes a 1-year warranty
• Weighs 1.5 pounds, adding mass to the grill base

Good fit if

• You own a Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, or 1050 smoker
• You want to improve charcoal airflow and burn consistency
• You need a direct OEM-style replacement grate

Skip if

• You use a Kamado Joe or other brand smoker
• You require a stainless steel grate for rust resistance
• You need a grate for a charcoal grill without digital controls

Verdict: COMVIEe Steel Charcoal Grate for Masterbuilt Gravity is a precise replacement for owners of the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, or 1050. It restores proper airflow and fit for your specific digital smoker.

4 Best premium

Kamado Joe 18-Inch Stainless Steel Grate Expander

Best for: indirect cooking on Classic Joe smokers

Compatible Appliance

Smoker (what this guide is about)

Compatible Grill

Kamado Joe Classic I, II, III

Material

Stainless steel

Dimensions

15.5 x 13 x 4 in

Grate Type

Grill grate expander

Fuel Type

Charcoal

View on Amazon: Kamado Joe 18-Inch Stainless Steel Grate Expander Affiliate link

This Kamado Joe stainless steel grate expander adds indirect cooking space to your smoker. Measuring 15.5 by 13 by 4 inches, it sits directly on the grill with slotted feet for stability. It is designed for the Classic I, II, and III models. You can elevate vegetables and delicate meats away from the direct fire. The unit weighs 3.4 pounds and is built for charcoal cooking.

Pros

• Constructed from durable stainless steel
• Adds 15.5 by 13 inches of indirect cooking space
• Features slotted feet for stable placement on the grill

Cons

• Only fits Kamado Joe Classic I, II, and III models
• Does not increase primary direct-heat cooking area
• Requires specific Kamado Joe grill compatibility

Good fit if

• You own a Kamado Joe Classic series smoker
• You need extra space for indirect cooking
• You want to elevate delicate foods away from direct heat

Skip if

• You use a different brand of smoker
• You need a full-size replacement grate
• You only cook using direct high heat

Verdict: Kamado Joe Stainless Steel Grill Grate Expander provides stable indirect cooking space for Classic series owners. It is a practical add-on for those who need to cook vegetables or meats away from direct flames.

Specifications side by side

How to choose the right grill grate

1. Match material to needs

   Choose cast iron for superior heat retention or stainless steel for rust resistance. The top pick uses a 7-pound cast iron body to maintain steady temperatures for breakfast items. If you prefer durability against the elements, the fourth option is a stainless steel expander. This 3.4-pound grate provides stable indirect cooking space. Select cast iron if you prioritize even heat distribution. Choose stainless steel if you want low maintenance and long-term resistance to corrosion in outdoor conditions.

2. Verify exact fit

   Replacement grates must match your specific smoker model to ensure proper airflow. The second option is designed for Kamado Joe Classic series models like KJ-MFG23. Its 10-inch by 10-inch dimensions fit perfectly to simplify ash removal. The third option is a precise replacement for Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, or 1050 owners. Always check the model number in your smoker manual before purchasing. An incorrect fit can disrupt temperature control and airflow efficiency during your next cook.

3. Check dimensions carefully

   Grate size determines how much food you can cook at once. The top pick measures 18.3 inches in length and 8.98 inches in width. This classic size offers a broad surface for versatile cooking tasks. The second option is a compact 10-inch square grate suitable for smaller charcoal beds. The fourth option expands your cooking area with a 15.5-inch length. Measure your smoker’s interior before buying. Ensure the grate sits securely without wobbling or blocking essential vents.

4. Consider weight for stability

   Heavier grates often retain heat better and stay stable during cooking. The top pick weighs 7 pounds, providing substantial thermal mass. The second option is lighter but still dense enough for even heat distribution. The third option is a lightweight 1.5-pound steel grate for digital smokers. The fourth option weighs 3.4 pounds for reliable support. Heavier cast iron requires more effort to handle but offers better temperature consistency. Lighter steel options are easier to maneuver for quick adjustments.

5. Select style for purpose

   Your cooking style dictates the best grate type. Kamado owners often add a reversible cast iron griddle for breakfast items alongside smoked meals. The top pick suits this versatile approach. If you need a direct replacement for charcoal support, the second option is ideal. For indirect cooking on Classic Joe smokers, the stainless steel expander adds practical space. Digital smoker owners should stick to the specific steel grate designed for their Gravity Series model. Match the grate to your primary cooking method.

Frequently asked questions

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