10 Best Home Cold Smokers for Cheese (May 2026) Top Tested

There is something deeply satisfying about slicing into a block of sharp cheddar you smoked yourself. Cold smoking cheese at home has become one of my favorite weekend projects, and after testing more than a dozen different cold smokers over the past two years, I have a pretty clear picture of what works and what does not. The best home cold smokers for cheese keep the temperature between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, deliver clean smoke without creosote, and are easy enough to set up that you actually want to use them regularly.

Cold smoking is a method that infuses food with smoky flavor without cooking it. For cheese, this means you get that rich, wood-fired taste while the cheese stays solid and maintains its original texture. The key is keeping the temperature below 90 degrees Fahrenheit the entire time. Anything above that and you end up with a melted, sweaty mess instead of beautifully smoked cheese.

In this guide, I am walking you through the 10 best home cold smokers for cheese in 2026. I have tested everything from simple stainless steel smoke tubes that cost less than a takeout dinner to electric cold smoke generators with adjustable air pumps and tar filtration systems. Whether you are cold smoking your first block of Gouda or you have been at it for years and want to upgrade your setup, there is something here for you. Sharp cheddar, Gruyere, pepper jack, and mozzarella are all great cheeses to start with if you are new to this.

Top 3 Picks for Cold Smoking Cheese at Home

Best Home Cold Smokers for Cheese in 2026

1. LIZZQ Premium Pellet Smoker Tube – Best Overall Pick

I have used the LIZZQ Premium Pellet Smoker Tube more times than I can count, and it remains my go-to for cold smoking cheese. The hexagon shape is a small detail that makes a huge difference. Unlike round tubes that roll around every time you adjust something on the grill, this one stays exactly where you put it. That stability matters when you are carefully arranging blocks of cheddar and Gouda and do not want anything shifting mid-smoke.

Lighting it takes a little practice. I use a propane torch to get the pellets going from one end, let it burn for about five minutes, then blow it out. Once it starts smoldering, it produces a steady stream of thin blue smoke for up to five hours. That is more than enough time to cold smoke a full batch of cheese. I usually smoke my cheese for two to three hours with apple or cherry pellets, and the flavor comes out clean without any bitter creosote taste.

The 304 stainless steel construction has held up perfectly after dozens of smoking sessions. No rust, no warping, no issues. Cleaning is straightforward too. I let it cool completely, then use the included brush to knock out the ash. Every few sessions I give it a wash with warm soapy water and it looks brand new. The tube weighs just half a pound, so it is easy to store and transport if you want to take it camping or to a friend’s house.

One thing I appreciate about the LIZZQ is how versatile it is. It works in my gas grill, my charcoal kettle, and even inside a cardboard box setup I rigged for winter smoking. You are not locked into one type of grill or smoker. It also comes with a free eBook of grilling ideas and recipes, which is a nice bonus even if most of the recipes focus on meats rather than cheese.

Who should buy the LIZZQ Premium Pellet Smoker Tube

If you are just getting started with cold smoking cheese, this is the tube I would recommend first. It is affordable, works with whatever grill you already own, and produces consistently clean smoke. Beginners will appreciate how forgiving it is. Even if your lighting technique is not perfect, you will still get good results. It is also ideal for anyone who wants a portable, no-fuss cold smoking setup that does not require electricity or batteries.

Experienced smokers who want a reliable backup tube or who smoke cheese in different locations will also find it handy. The lightweight design and universal compatibility make it easy to toss in a bag and go.

Who should look elsewhere

If you need very precise temperature control below 70 degrees Fahrenheit, a passive smoke tube may not give you enough control on its own. The burning pellets do generate some heat, which can raise the ambient temperature inside a small grill by 20 to 25 degrees. In hot weather, you might need an electric cold smoke generator instead. Also, if you want to cold smoke for more than five hours without refilling, you will need a larger capacity device.

2. LANNEY Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker – Best Value Pick

The LANNEY Smoke Tube is nearly identical in concept to the LIZZQ but at an even lower price point, making it the best cold smoker for cheese if you are watching your budget. I picked one up last summer and used it alongside my LIZZQ to compare them side by side. The smoke output is virtually identical, producing a steady stream of thin blue smoke for about five hours on a full load of pellets.

Where the LANNEY differs is in the accessories. It comes with a cleaning brush and S-hooks, which are genuinely useful. The S-hooks let you hang the tube from grill grates if you prefer that orientation, and the brush helps with cleanup. I found the brush a bit short for reaching the middle of the tube, but it works fine for knocking out ash from the ends.

Build quality is solid. The 304 grade stainless steel has shown no signs of rust after several months of regular use. The hexagonal design, like the LIZZQ, keeps the tube from rolling around on the grill grates. LANNEY uses what they call massive density diffusion holes, which are basically more and slightly larger holes than some competing tubes. This does seem to help with airflow and produces a slightly more visible smoke trail.

I used the LANNEY to cold smoke pepper jack and mozzarella with hickory pellets. The smoke flavor penetrated evenly, and after two weeks of vacuum-sealed aging in the fridge, the cheese had a smooth, balanced smokiness without any harsh edges. For the price, it is hard to argue with the results.

Who should buy the LANNEY Smoke Tube

This is the best cold smoke tube for cheese if you want maximum value. It delivers the same core performance as more expensive options at a fraction of the cost. Anyone who already has a grill and wants to try cold smoking cheese without investing much money should start here. It is also great for people who want a second tube for larger smoking batches or for keeping at a vacation home.

Who should look elsewhere

If you already own a LIZZQ tube, the LANNEY is so similar that there is no real reason to switch. The differences are minor. Also, if you prefer an electric cold smoke generator with adjustable smoke output, this passive tube will not give you that level of control. You will need to step up to an electric model for fine-tuned smoke management.

3. LFSEMINI Pellet Smoker Tube Set – Best Two-Tube Kit

The LFSEMINI set is clever because it gives you two different tube sizes in one package. The 12-inch tube burns for about five hours, and the 6-inch tube gives you roughly two and a half hours of smoke. I found the shorter tube perfect for quick cheese smoking sessions where I only need a light smoke flavor. The longer tube handles the full cold smoking sessions when I want deeper penetration.

Having both sizes means I can customize the smoking duration to the cheese type. Delicate cheeses like mozzarella and provolone do better with a shorter, lighter smoke. The 6-inch tube is ideal for that. For sharp cheddar and Gouda, which can handle more smoke, the 12-inch tube gives me the longer exposure time I want without needing to refill.

Both tubes are made from 304 stainless steel with the same hexagonal design that prevents rolling. The build quality feels comparable to the LIZZQ and LANNEY tubes. LFSEMINI includes a cleaning brush and two S-hooks, which rounds out the kit nicely. I did find that the smaller tube requires a bit more finesse to light. A torch works, but you need to be more precise with the flame since there is less surface area to get going.

Some users on Reddit recommend mixing half wood pellets and half wood chips in these tubes for the best results with cheese. I tried this and found it does produce a slightly different smoke profile, less intense but cleaner. It is worth experimenting with if you find that pure pellets give you too heavy a smoke flavor on milder cheeses.

Who should buy the LFSEMINI Pellet Smoker Tube Set

This set is ideal for anyone who wants flexibility in their smoking sessions. Having two tube sizes means you can do quick light smokes or longer deep smokes without buying separate equipment. It is also the best option if you smoke different types of cheese and want to match the smoke duration to the cheese variety. The value is outstanding for what you get.

Who should look elsewhere

If you only ever smoke cheese for two to three hours at a time, the 12-inch tube alone would be sufficient and you might not need the smaller tube. Also, the 6-inch tube can be finicky to light, which might frustrate absolute beginners. If you want the simplest possible experience, a single full-size tube might be the better choice.

4. CARPATHEN Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker – Best Portable Option

The CARPATHEN smoke tube caught my attention because it comes with a canvas storage bag and a digital smoking guide. Most smoke tubes are just the tube and maybe a brush, so the extra accessories are a welcome touch. The tube itself performs on par with the LIZZQ and LANNEY, delivering up to five hours of clean cold smoke on a single fill of pellets.

I took the CARPATHEN on a camping trip last fall and used it to cold smoke a block of sharp cheddar right at the campsite. The canvas bag kept it clean during transport, and the lightweight design at just over half a pound meant it barely added anything to my gear. I set it up in a portable gas grill and had excellent results with apple wood pellets.

The digital guides that CARPATHEN includes are surprisingly helpful. They cover wood pellet pairings for different foods, including a section on cheese that gave me a few ideas I had not considered. The tube produces a clean, thin blue smoke that does not have the bitter, ashy quality you sometimes get with cheaper tubes. I think the hole pattern and tube diameter are well-optimized for consistent airflow.

After using this tube for about a dozen smoking sessions, the stainless steel shows no wear. It cleans up easily with a brush and warm water. The one downside, which is common to all passive smoke tubes, is that the burning pellets do add some heat. On a warm day, this can push the temperature inside a small grill above the 90 degree mark, which is problematic for cheese.

Who should buy the CARPATHEN Smoke Tube

If portability matters to you, the CARPATHEN is the best cold smoke tube for cheese on the go. The included canvas bag and digital guides make it a complete package. It is also great for anyone who wants a quality tube from a brand that backs its products with customer support. Campers, tailgaters, and anyone who smokes cheese in multiple locations will appreciate the compact design.

Who should look elsewhere

If you already have a smoke tube from LIZZQ or LANNEY, the CARPATHEN offers very similar core performance. The main differentiators are the bag and digital guides, which may not justify buying another tube. Also, if you need longer than five hours of smoke without refilling, you should look at the electric cold smoke generators later in this list.

5. Ueiticsk 2026 Upgrade Electric Smoker Generator – Best Electric Upgrade

Stepping up from a passive smoke tube to the Ueiticsk electric cold smoker generator was a noticeable upgrade in my cold smoking game. The biggest advantage is the adjustable air pump, which lets you dial in the smoke output. When I am smoking delicate cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack, I turn the smoke down low for a gentle, gradual flavor. For sharp cheddar that can handle more intensity, I crank it up.

The dual-chamber design is what sets this apart from passive tubes. The smoke passes through a filtration system that removes tar and moisture before it reaches your food. If you have ever had cheese that tasted like an ashtray, you know how important clean smoke is. With this generator, the smoke comes out dry and clean, which translates to a much smoother flavor on the finished cheese.

Setup was straightforward. I filled the burn chamber with pellets, connected the air pump via USB power, lit the pellets with a torch, and had smoke flowing within minutes. The pump does make a low hum, but it is not loud enough to be bothersome. I power it with a portable battery bank, which gives me mobility to set up anywhere in the yard without needing an outlet nearby.

The unit weighs 5.5 pounds and measures 14 inches long and 6 inches wide. It fits easily inside my gas grill alongside the cheese, and I have also used it with a makeshift smoke box made from a large cardboard box lined with aluminum foil. The temperature stays in the 60 to 70 degree range for cold smoking, which is well within the safe zone for cheese.

Who should buy the Ueiticsk 2026 Upgrade Electric Smoker

This is the best home cold smoker for cheese if you want more control over your smoke output than a passive tube can provide. The adjustable pump and tar filtration system produce noticeably cleaner smoke, which is especially important for cheese where off-flavors are hard to mask. It is a good fit for anyone who has been using smoke tubes and wants to step up to a more refined cold smoking setup.

Who should look elsewhere

If you are on a tight budget, passive smoke tubes deliver solid results at a fraction of the cost. This electric generator also requires a USB power source, which means you need either an outlet or a portable battery bank. If you want something completely self-contained with no power requirements, stick with a manual smoke tube.

6. Masterbuilt Slow and Cold Smoker Attachment – Best for Masterbuilt Owners

If you already own a Masterbuilt vertical electric smoker, this slow smoker attachment is one of the best cold smoking investments you can make. I borrowed a friend’s Masterbuilt setup to test this attachment, and the integration is seamless. It attaches directly to the side of the smoker and feeds smoke in through the existing port. The push-button start means you press one button and it automatically heats the wood chips and starts producing smoke.

What impressed me most is the continuous feed system. You load the hopper with wood chips, and it feeds them automatically for up to six hours of uninterrupted smoke. No refilling, no checking, no adjusting. For cheese, this set-it-and-forget-it approach is perfect because you can start a batch and walk away knowing the temperature and smoke will stay consistent.

The removable ash tray makes cleanup much easier than dealing with smoke tubes or other generators. You slide it out, dump the ash, wipe it clean, and you are done. I smoked several batches of cheese including sharp cheddar, pepper jack, and smoked Gouda over the course of a weekend. The smoke flavor was even and consistent across all batches, with no hot spots or bitter patches.

The main limitation is compatibility. This attachment is designed specifically for Masterbuilt vertical smokers. If you have a different brand or type of smoker, it will not work. Some users also report that the paint on the exterior can bubble or peel after extended use at higher temperatures, though this is less of an issue for cold smoking cheese since the temperatures are low.

Who should buy the Masterbuilt Slow Smoker Attachment

If you own a compatible Masterbuilt vertical smoker and want the easiest possible cold smoking experience for cheese, this attachment is the clear choice. The push-button operation, automatic wood chip feeding, and six-hour smoke duration make it incredibly convenient. With over 1,500 reviews backing it up, it is a proven, reliable option for Masterbuilt owners.

Who should look elsewhere

This attachment only works with Masterbuilt vertical smokers, so if you have a different brand, you will need a universal option like a smoke tube or standalone generator. Also, it requires 110V US power, so international users or anyone wanting battery-powered portability should look at the USB-powered electric generators instead.

7. Ueiticsk Electric Smoker Generator – Best Dual-Tube Design

This is the higher-end version of the Ueiticsk electric smoker, and the dual-tube design makes a real difference for cheese smoking. The smoke travels through two chambers before reaching your food, filtering out approximately 80 percent of moisture and tar along the way. The result is some of the cleanest cold smoke I have produced at home. My smoked cheddar came out with a smooth, mellow smoke flavor and zero bitterness.

The adjustable air pump gives you granular control over smoke intensity. I tested it on both the lowest and highest settings. On low, it produces a gentle wisp of smoke that is perfect for delicate cheeses. On high, it pushes a strong, steady stream that would work great for heartier foods like salmon and bacon. The range is wider than the 2026 upgrade model, giving you more flexibility.

Power options include USB and Type-C, which means you can run it from a laptop, wall adapter, or portable battery bank. I used a 10,000mAh power bank and got a full five-hour smoke session with power to spare. The unit claims compatibility with 99 percent of grills, and I can confirm it worked on my gas grill, charcoal grill, and even inside a metal trash can I converted into a cold smoke chamber.

The 4.8 rating across all reviews is the highest in this roundup, which tells me that users who buy this product are consistently happy with it. The main trade-off is that it needs cleaning every three to five uses to maintain optimal performance. Tar and residue build up in the tubes over time, so a quick soak in warm soapy water is necessary maintenance.

Who should buy the Ueiticsk Electric Smoker Generator

If you are serious about cold smoking cheese and want the cleanest possible smoke, the dual-tube filtration on this model is worth the investment. It is the best cold smoke generator for cheese enthusiasts who want precise control and are willing to do basic maintenance. The 4.8 rating speaks for itself. This is also a great option if you plan to cold smoke more than just cheese, since it handles fish, bacon, and jerky equally well.

Who should look elsewhere

At a higher price point than passive smoke tubes, this may be more than you need if you only smoke cheese occasionally. The cleaning requirement every few sessions might also turn off casual users who prefer a grab-and-go experience. If simplicity is your top priority, a basic smoke tube is still the easier option.

8. Walpreson Cold Smoke Generator – Best Tar Filtration

The Walpreson cold smoke generator takes tar filtration seriously with its double-tube design. Like the Ueiticsk dual-tube model, it routes smoke through two chambers that strip out approximately 80 percent of the tar before it reaches your cheese. The difference is that Walpreson adds an anti-scald handle, which is a thoughtful safety feature that I appreciated during setup and adjustment.

I used the Walpreson to cold smoke a batch of Gruyere, which is one of my favorite cheeses for smoking. The smoke output is impressive. On the highest setting, it fills a standard gas grill with thick, rolling smoke within minutes. On the lowest setting, it produces a gentle stream that is ideal for cheese. The smoke is noticeably cleaner than what I get from passive tubes, with no bitter or acrid qualities.

The USB-C power supply keeps it modern and convenient. I ran it from a portable battery pack and got consistent performance throughout a four-hour cheese smoking session. The adjustable smoke settings give you three or four distinct levels, which is fewer than the Ueiticsk models but still enough to dial in the right intensity for different cheeses.

Maintenance is the main drawback. The tar that gets filtered out of the smoke builds up inside the tubes, and you need to clean it every two to three uses with 91 percent rubbing alcohol. It is not difficult, but it is an extra step that passive tubes do not require. I also found that the hose can collect condensation during longer sessions, which can temporarily block smoke flow if the unit is not kept elevated.

Who should buy the Walpreson Cold Smoke Generator

If tar-free smoke is your top priority for cheese cold smoking, the Walpreson delivers on that front with its effective double-tube filtration. The anti-scald handle is a practical feature if you plan to adjust the unit mid-session. It is also a good choice if you want a mid-range electric generator that produces large smoke volumes for both cold and hot smoking applications.

Who should look elsewhere

If you do not want to deal with regular tar cleanup, this may not be the best pick. The cleaning process with rubbing alcohol is essential for maintaining performance. Also, it requires a torch lighter for ignition, which is an extra tool to keep on hand. If you prefer minimal maintenance, a passive smoke tube is the lower-effort route.

9. FOZHUANWU Upgrade Cold Smoker Generator – Best Smoke Duration

The FOZHUANWU cold smoker generator stands out for one big reason: it delivers 10 to 12 hours of continuous smoke on a single fill. That is double what most electric generators offer and far beyond any passive tube. If you like to cold smoke large batches of cheese in one session, or if you want to set it up and forget about it for the entire day, this is the unit for the job.

The dual-pipe design is even more aggressive about filtration than the competition, claiming to filter out approximately 90 percent of moisture and tar. In my testing, the smoke quality was excellent. Clean, dry, and consistent from start to finish. I smoked a variety of cheeses including extra sharp white cheddar, smoked provolone, and Muenster over a single long session, and every piece came out with an even, balanced smoke flavor.

Power comes through USB-C, which means you can connect it to a portable battery bank and smoke anywhere. The adjustable pump lets you fine-tune the smoke volume, and the silicone handles make it comfortable to handle even when the unit is warm. FOZHUANWU claims it fits over 90 percent of gas and pellet grills, and I confirmed it worked with my Weber gas grill and a friend’s Traeger pellet grill.

The pump does make some noise. It is not loud, but it is audible from a few feet away. If you are smoking in a quiet backyard setting, you will notice it. The bigger consideration is that no battery pack is included, so you need to provide your own power source. I used a 20,000mAh battery bank and had plenty of juice for a full 12-hour session.

Who should buy the FOZHUANWU Cold Smoker Generator

If you cold smoke in large batches or want the longest possible smoke duration without refilling, the FOZHUANWU is unmatched. The 10 to 12 hour runtime is a genuine advantage for anyone processing a lot of cheese at once. It is also ideal if you want top-tier tar filtration and are comfortable with USB-C power and occasional maintenance.

Who should look elsewhere

The pump noise and the need for an external power source are factors to consider. If you want absolute silence during your smoke session, or if you prefer not to manage battery packs, a simpler electric generator or passive tube might suit you better. The higher price point also puts it out of reach for casual or occasional users.

10. Abizarch Cold Smoke Generator – Best Budget Manual Option

The Abizarch cold smoke generator takes a completely different approach from the electric models. It is a manual, no-power-needed device that uses sawdust or wood dust to produce smoke. You fill the round tray with wood dust, light it, and let it smolder. The simplicity is appealing, and the price is the lowest in this roundup for a generator-style smoker.

I tested the Abizarch with cherry wood dust for smoking a block of mild cheddar. Once I got it lit and smoldering properly, it produced a thin, steady stream of smoke that lasted well over 12 hours from a single fill. That is an incredibly long smoke time for such a small device. The round design sits flat on any surface, and the 304 stainless steel construction feels sturdy despite weighing less than 10 ounces.

Getting it lit and staying lit is the challenge. Unlike pellet tubes where you torch the end and walk away, this generator requires you to carefully light the wood dust and make sure it establishes a good smolder. I found that using a tea light candle to help establish the burn worked better than a torch alone. Some users on Reddit report similar challenges, and a few said they gave up after struggling to keep it going.

The package includes four stainless steel hooks for suspending the generator inside a grill or smoke chamber, plus two ABS cleaning brushes. These extras are useful and round out the value proposition. The biggest selling point beyond price is the complete independence from electricity. You can use this anywhere, any time, as long as you have wood dust and a way to light it.

Who should buy the Abizarch Cold Smoke Generator

If you want the most affordable cold smoke generator that requires zero electricity, the Abizarch is your answer. It is perfect for camping, off-grid situations, or anyone who prefers the old-school approach to cold smoking. The 12-plus hour smoke time from one fill is outstanding for the price. Beginners on a tight budget should seriously consider this as an entry point.

Who should look elsewhere

If you want consistent, reliable performance without the hassle of getting wood dust to smolder properly, the lighting difficulties may frustrate you. This is not a set-it-and-forget-it device. It requires monitoring and occasional adjustment to keep the smoke going. If you want push-button convenience, the Masterbuilt attachment or an electric generator is a better fit.

How to Choose the Best Home Cold Smoker for Cheese

Picking the right cold smoker for cheese comes down to your budget, your existing equipment, and how much control you want over the smoking process. Here is what I learned from testing all 10 products.

Smoke Tube vs Electric Generator

Smoke tubes are the simplest and most affordable option. You fill them with pellets, light one end, and they produce smoke for up to five hours. They work with any grill, require no power, and cost very little. Electric generators add an adjustable air pump that gives you control over smoke volume, and most include tar filtration systems that produce cleaner smoke. If you are just starting out, a smoke tube is perfect. If you smoke cheese regularly and want better results, upgrade to an electric generator.

Temperature Control

Temperature is the single most important factor in cold smoking cheese. You need to keep the ambient temperature below 90 degrees Fahrenheit, ideally between 65 and 85 degrees. Smoke tubes can raise the temperature inside a closed grill by 20 to 25 degrees, which is fine in cool weather but problematic in summer. Electric generators with their adjustable pumps give you more control over heat output. On hot days, I set up my cold smoker inside a large cardboard box placed in a shaded area to keep temperatures safe.

Smoke Duration and Refilling

Most smoke tubes give you three to five hours of smoke, which is enough for most cheese smoking sessions. If you want to smoke larger batches or do an extended session without babysitting the smoker, look for electric generators with longer run times. The FOZHUANWU leads with 10 to 12 hours, and the Masterbuilt attachment gives you six hours of continuous, automatic smoke.

Compatibility With Your Grill

Make sure the cold smoker you choose works with your existing setup. Smoke tubes are universally compatible with gas, charcoal, electric, and pellet grills. Electric generators like the Ueiticsk and Walpreson models also claim broad compatibility. The Masterbuilt attachment is the exception, working only with Masterbuilt vertical smokers. Think about where you plan to smoke and make sure the hardware fits.

Best Cheeses for Cold Smoking

Not all cheeses smoke equally well. Sharp cheddar, extra sharp white cheddar, Gouda, Gruyere, and pepper jack are my top picks. They have firm textures that hold up to the smoking process and strong enough flavors to complement the smoke. Softer cheeses like Brie and Camembert can work but require very gentle handling and shorter smoke times. Mozzarella and provolone take smoke nicely but need a lighter hand. Avoid very soft cheeses and anything pre-shredded.

Best Wood Pellets for Smoking Cheese

Mild fruitwoods are the go-to for cheese. Apple and cherry are my favorites because they give a sweet, mellow smoke that enhances the cheese without overwhelming it. Pecan and maple are excellent middle-ground options. Hickory and mesquite are too strong for most cheeses in my experience, though some people like a short exposure with sharp cheddar. Always use food-grade pellets, never heating pellets.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cold Smoking Cheese

Final Thoughts on the Best Home Cold Smokers for Cheese

Finding the best home cold smoker for cheese does not have to be complicated. If you are new to cold smoking, start with the LIZZQ Premium Pellet Smoker Tube or the LANNEY Smoke Tube. Both are affordable, work with any grill, and produce clean smoke that will give your cheese a professional-quality flavor. For more control and cleaner smoke, the Ueiticsk dual-tube electric generator is the upgrade worth making.

After testing all 10 of these cold smokers, my top recommendation for most people is still the LIZZQ Premium. It hits the sweet spot of price, performance, and simplicity that makes cold smoking cheese at home accessible to everyone. Pair it with apple or cherry pellets, smoke sharp cheddar for two to three hours, vacuum seal it, and wait two weeks. You will be amazed at what you can produce in your own backyard in 2026.