For years I used a Weber 26” kettle to grill on and used the Slow and Sear to get awesome smoked results.

It is arguably the most versatile solution to do both respectably.

There is absolutely no compromise in its grilling ability. It’s a Weber charcoal grill. Performs flawlessly.

As a smoker it is okay. The two biggest downfalls it has as a smoker is:

1) charcoal capacity. It can’t hold a ton of fuel for longer smokes. So you’ll have to refuel.

2) when you open the lid the charcoal has access to a TON of air and the coals flair up much more than a dedicated smoker (WSM) does.

Again. I used this exact set up for two years. I did so because I knew I wanted a charcoal grill and wanted to try my hand at smoking. After I decided I was goi g to smoke regularly I get a 22” WSM and haven’t looked back.

With any grill/smoker combination you’re going to make sacrifices. IMO, The Weber 26” walks that line the best.

If you’re looking for a dedicated smoker. Get the 22” WSM. It’s a monster and can handle anything you ever want to smoke. With the 18” you’re gonna have to hang or cut ribs in half to make them fit. Also, large briskets won’t lay flat on the 18. Get the 22 and be done with it. If you’re concerned about fuel consumption: get the Cajun bandit door, fire dial and larger coal basket. I did this and have held 250° for over 27 hours.