10 Best Offset Smokers to Buy in 2024 – Buying Guide and Reviews
You would probably know about offset smokers if you often arrange BBQ sessions with your friends and families. They have become massively popular among pro chefs and hobbyists who like to enjoy food fully packed with smokey flavor. I have been using them for quite some time and would say there is no going back from them.
Wondering whether offset smokers are worth it? How are reverse offset smokers different from traditional ones? Well, if you are planning to buy one, you need to look at every single thing, from cooking capacity to temperature range, fuel consumption, maintenance, and smoke production. To save your day, I have brought together some best offset smokers along with a buying guide. So, dive right in for more.
If you’re in the market for an offset smoker, whether you have a budget of under $500 or up to $1000, we have you covered. Check out our comprehensive guides on the best offset smokers under $500 and best-offset smokers under $1000 to find the perfect option that fits your budget and requirements.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
|
EDITORS CHOICE
|
Oklahoma Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker
|
9.8
|
Check on AmazonRead Full Review |
|
Best Traditional
|
Char-Broil Oklahoma Highland Offset Smoker
|
9.7
|
Check on AmazonRead Full Review |
|
Best Budget
|
Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker
|
9.7
|
Check on AmazonRead Full Review |
|
Best Vertical
|
Dyna-Glo Signature Series Smoker & Grill
|
9.4
|
Check on AmazonRead Full Review |
|
Best for small area
|
Bradley Smoker BTDS76P Food Smoker
|
9.3
|
Check on AmazonRead Full Review |
|
Best heavy duty
|
WOOD WIND PRO 36
|
8.9
|
Check on Camp ChefRead Full Review |
|
Best Combo
|
Char-Broil Oklahoma Gas/Smoker Combo
|
8.7
|
Check on AmazonRead Full Review |
|
Best Small
|
Dyna-Glo Signature Charcoal Grill & Side Firebox
|
8.7
|
Check on AmazonRead Full Review |
|
Best for Routine Use
|
Broil King regal Charcoal Offset XL
|
8.6
|
Check on AmazonRead Full Review |
|
Best Stainless Steel
|
Master built MB20041220 Gravity Series 1050 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo, 1050 sq. in, Black
|
8.5
|
Check on AmazonRead Full Review |
10 Best Offset Smokers
1 – Oklahoma Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker – Top Pick
Specifications:
- Material Construction: Stainless Steel
- Cooking Area: 751 square inches
- Weight: 226 pounds
- Includes low-slow cook mode
I am starting my list of the best offset smokers with this Oklahoma Longhorn Reverse smoker, all thanks to its well-organized design. This was my favorite appliance to use during the initial stages of my cooking journey. The temperature changes were quick and easy and the heat was fairly proportionate. Overall, I found this smoker quite comfortable to use, needless to say, with incredible smokey flavor.
The first thing I would like to appreciate about this smoker is its sturdy stainless steel that is highly durable and lasts you for a long time. After using it in the past, I have this in the old storage and still haven’t found any scratches at all. Here, I really like the wheels as, with these, I was able to carry this around easily. Here, I would further appreciate the large working space as it was able to cook multiple dishes at a time.
In addition, when it comes to cleaning, my favorite thing about this model is its removable ashtray. So, with this function, all I was supposed to do was throw it away after each cooking session and clean the remaining with the sponge. It is also dishwasher safe, so cleaning wasn’t really a problem for me. Similarly, the cool handles helped me with easy usage throughout the cooking process.
Finally, speaking of the performance, the highlight of this model is its easy temperature setting. For this purpose, this one comes with a reverse mode that makes sure the meat is cooked slowly, making the smokey flavor quite prominent. All in all, the temperature gauge is quality and I was able to change it easily. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that the heat was easy to handle, even for beginners.
- Easy temperature changes
- It is low maintenance
- Large cooking space
- Easy to clean
- It is a bit expensive for newcomers
My Review
In essence, this Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse is undoubtedly the best backyard offset smoker, all thanks to its well-organized design. I have used this in the past and would say it is incredibly the best to groom your skills. The temperature range is quite precise and makes sure the smokey flavor is completely immersed in the food. Here, it is equally durable, so you won’t find scratches or scrapping.
2 – Char-Broil Oklahoma Highland Offset Smoker
Specifications:
- Material Construction: Porcelain Enameled Alloy Steel
- Cooking Area: 619 square inches
- Includes multiple dampers
- It has a firebox door
Here comes yet another best-budget offset smoker for beginners from Oklahoma. I would say although it is designed specifically for learning, the cooking space and temperature range are quite impressive. The boxy look not only makes it sturdy but adds to its aesthetic appeal, so it will look like you are doing some serious cooking. Overall, the smokey flavor in the food was proportionate, irrespective of the heat setting.
First of all, this one is made up of alloy steel that is quite durable. All the elements are porcelain enameled, so you don’t have to worry about corrosion damage. This offset smoker further has a firebox that allows you to burn the charcoal and wood without making a mess. Here, the manufacturers have added wagon-style wheels that make sure you can carry it around without feeling burdened.
Moreover, speaking of the performance, I would say the cooking space is clearly impressive. The smoker offers a total of 619 primary and 281 square inches of secondary space with which you can host bbq parties and cook multiple dishes. Here, the temperature changes were also quick and I found the smoking flavor and texture proportionate. Despite it being a beginner model, this one has multiple dampers for heat.
In the end, I would also like to mention that cleaning the racks was no problem at all, all thanks to the porcelain-coated shelves. These made sure the heat transfer is minimal from one rack to the other. Here, all I did was just wipe away the minimal grease that was on the shelves. The firebox also doesn’t need any cleaning for the most part, but it is absolutely important to keep it tidy.
- A large firebox
- Ideal for newcomers
- Great value for money
- Includes adjustable racks
- I noticed some leakage at high temperature
My Review
Final thoughts, after using this smoker for large gatherings, I would say it is quite a fair deal for the money. It is undoubtedly the best value offset smoker for the cooking space and temperature setting it offers. The firebox is also quite large, so you can easily fill it up for a long time. Moreover, the adjustable rack and cold handle, not to mention, the porcelain-coated shelves make it easy for beginners to handle.
3 – Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker
Specifications:
- Material Construction: Stainless Steel
- Cooking Area: 1176 square inches
- Includes a built-in thermometer
- It has large ash handles
As a beginner, I have used this smoker and grill combo in the past and would say it is absolutely worth it. The highlight of this model is its ergonomic design which includes digital temperature adjustments and a rubber handle. Moreover, I was able to gather a large group of friends and families over the bbq sessions. All in all, the entire cleaning process didn’t take me any time or effort, which is always a plus.
The first thing I would like to mention about this model is its sturdy steel construction. Although it looks quite boxy and all the elements are porcelain enameled, so you don’t have to worry about corrosion damage. After using it for the longest time possible, I still haven’t found any scratches. Here, for portability, the manufacturers have added oversized wheels that helped me in carrying it around.
Moreover, another thing I really like about this model is its digital temperature range. Here, I found the built-in thermometer highly functional at keeping the heat consistent and proportionate. The dampers were equally easy to handle and incredible at providing even smokey flavor to all the racks. Similarly, the working area was absolutely large, making it easy for me to host large bbq parties.
In the end, when it comes to convenience, this smoker absolutely has an edge, given that it is designed specifically for newcomers. I absolutely loved the addition of wheels and rubber cool handles, with which I was able to monitor the entire cooking process. Finally, the firebox also has a door, so you can easily burn the charcoal while smoking food for the most part.
- Ideal for beginners
- Includes digital temperature
- Easy to handle
- It is long-lasting
- The wheels are a bit stiff
My Review
In essence, this Dyna-Glo has been my companion in learning smoking and bbq. I would say it is a must-have for beginners who want to experiment with their cooking yet desire to organize large gatherings. Overall, the digital temperatures and firebox are incredibly easy to use. Likewise, the addition of oversized wheels makes it easy to store and transport.
4 – Dyna-Glo Signature Series Smoker & Grill
Specifications:
- Material Construction: Stainless Steel
- Cooking Area: 1382 square inches
- Includes a cool-touch spring lid
- It has oversized steel wheels
Dyna-Glo is a big name and one of my favorites for its grills and related equipment. This smoker/ grill combo from their Signature Series is a great choice for anyone who likes to arrange some bbq gatherings with their friends and families. It is designed for the outdoors, so you can easily make these sessions more fun. I found it really easy and quick to use, which is always a plus when it comes to grilling equipment.
To start with, this entire grill is made up of stainless steel that is almost impossible to scratch, so you don’t have to worry about the damage at all. It is further accompanied by a square lid which is my favorite. This is because I used to put a pot over this lid to make sure all the meat gets a proper smokey flavor. Here, the addition of wheels makes it easy to carry around the yard, without feeling burdened.
Likewise, another thing I like about this model is its large cooking space. Apart from the main barrel, the secondary space makes it easy for you to cook multiple dishes at a time. When it comes to cleaning, the shelves are coated with porcelain, so you can easily wipe away the leftovers once you are done. It also has a removable ashtray which is dishwasher safe, making it suitable for me as a lazy person.
Lastly, speaking of the temperature setting, this one has a digital setup that is quite easy to use. All the heat settings are precise and don’t take much time to preheat this smoker. The heat loss was minimal and all the food gets an equally mouthwatering smokey taste. However, the only downside to this model is that the firebox is small, so you need to change the fuel after some time.
- It is affordable
- Large cooking space
- Easy to carry around
- Offers precise temperature
- The firebox is really small
My Review
Wrapping up, this Dyna-Glo smoker and grill combo are one of my favorites for large gatherings. I would say it is undoubtedly the best-offset smoker for the money, all thanks to the precise temperature range and large cooking space. The square lid design is clearly at an advantage, as it completely locks the smoke in it, making the food even more flavorful. All in all, I found this smoker easy to use.
5 – Bradley Smoker BTDS76P Food Smoker
Specifications:
- Material Construction: Stainless Steel, carbon
- Cooking Area: 52 square inches (13 inches each)
- Item weight: 57 pounds
- Includes four adjustable racks
If you are a budget enthusiast and do not want to invest heavily in a food smoker for your small family, I would advise you to consider this one. It is the easiest thing you can find for a bbq session. I absolutely loved the electric smoke that works for small apartments and limited spaces. In addition, the fact that it doesn’t require any effort or time for cleaning and assembly makes it worth the money.
To start with, the smoker is quite modern and suits any kitchen design well. Here, for construction, the manufacturers have used stainless steel, which is further coated with porcelain. So, you won’t find scratches or signs of corrosion damage on this unit. It is equally light, making it easy to switch from an outdoor to an indoor kitchen.
Here, another thing I really like about this smoker is its removable racks. Hence, with this function, you can easily customize the cooking space, as per the suitability of the food you are using. These are equally convenient to clean as there is no chance the meat will stick to the racks. All in all, I used a soapy solution and sponge to get rid of any greasy leftovers after every cooking session.
Last but not least, when it comes to performance, the highlight of this model is its automatic electric smoking diffuser. This makes sure all the racks get an even smokey flavor. The temperature is quite precise and has a smoking fan to properly diffuse the smoke. Overall, it can easily smoke the harsh and challenging briskets, in just a matter of nine hours, which is nothing compared to its competitors.
- Takes less time
- Great value for money
- Light and durable
- Automatic electric smoker
- The cooking space needs some improvement
My Review
Wrapping up, this Bradley smoker is a suitable alternative for anyone in search of something durable, functional, and convenient. The highlight of this model is its automatic electric smoker that makes sure all the racks get even flavor and consistent heat. I also really like the addition of adjustable racks and vertical design. Here, the fact that it is easy to clean adds to its value.
6 – Wood Wind Pro 36
Specifications:
- Material Construction: Stainless Steel, carbon
- Includes a removable ash pan
- It has stay-cool handles
If you want the best performance and convenience in one package, I would absolutely recommend you go for this smoker. I have been using it for quite some time and would say the taste was just nothing I could find with any other model. This is because the manufacturers have made sure the smoker is well-insulated and the temperatures are accurate. Similarly, it offers the perfect combo of portability and durability.
The first thing to note about this smoker is that it is made up of a 13-gauge smoker that is highly durable and long-lasting. It is really heavy and looks boxy, making it suitable for outdoor use. To ease storage and transport, the manufacturers have added small wheels. All in all, it can support four racks, each having a considerable cooking space, so you can gather large families and friends together.
In addition, this one has stainless steel that is really like, primarily because it is easy to clean without the fear of corrosion. All I did after each session was empty the removable ashtray and clean it off with a wet sponge. Here, this smoker also comes with a cold handle which makes it easy for you to handle the heat, even when the food is cooking. Throughout the process, I was able to check up on it.
Lastly, speaking of the heat range, the temperature was customizable, based on the compartment you are using. The smoke was even in all the racks, so you don’t have to worry about the flavor of the meat. The fact that it is well-insulated makes it preheat better, hence, you will notice an incredible flavor. Throughout the cooking, I found the temperature range quite consistent, which gives it an edge over others.
- Includes removable racks
- It is well-insulated
- Easy to maintain
- Offers incredible flavors
- It can be a bit expensive
My Review
Final thoughts, this Wood Wind pro 36 is my all-time favorite for its smooth temperature adjustments and unrivaled smokey flavor. It is best known for its ergonomic design that includes removable ashtray and racks that helps you customize the entire cooking process, as per your suitability. Overall, the buildup quality is absolutely worth the money you are paying.
7 – Char-Broil Oklahoma Gas/Smoker Combo
Specifications:
- Material Construction: Alloy Steel, Cast Iron
- Cooking Area: 1060 square inches
- BTU range: 12,000 x3
- Includes a firebox door
This Longhorn Oklahoma combo is another product that has gotten a lot of attention from across the market for its unique set of functions. I absolutely loved the fact that this model supports both the wood and grill fire. Similarly, its rugged and sturdy design makes it a great deal for outdoor usage. Here, the inclusion of oversized wheels further makes it easily transportable and storable.
First of all, this one has a boxy look that imitates the Longhorn, which is quite rugged and looks incredibly durable. All elements are porcelain enamel, so you don’t have to worry about scratches. The manufacturers have added side burners for you to lightly burn the charcoal while you are cooking. The tank can hold up to 20 pounds of fuel, which is more than enough for long hours.
Similarly, another thing to appreciate about this model is its drip pan that collects all the grease and impurities, making it easy for you to throw it away after every use. For regular cleaning, I like to use a soapy solution and a sponge to go over the entire thing. However, given that it is steel, you need to be extra careful as it is quite easy to corrode.
Last but not least, when it comes to performance, the large cooking area allows you to cook multiple dishes at a time. The temperatures are quite accurate and I found it absolutely quick to preheat. However, it runs on gas, so you always have to get the fuel ready. The heat was also distributed proportionately, so the smokey taste was worth the money.
- Accurate temperature settings
- Easy to clean
- Sturdy and durable
- Large cooking area
- It can be really heavy
My Review
Wrapping up, this Longhorn Oklahoma smoker/ grill combo is a great product for anyone who usually organizes large gatherings for friends and family. It is absolutely the best for smoke-flavored food, all thanks to the accurate temperature adjustments and heat distribution. As a lazy person, I also like that it is easy to clean and takes no time.
8 – Dyna-Glo Signature Charcoal Grill & Side Firebox
Specifications:
- Material Construction: Porcelain Enameled Alloy Steel
- Primary Cooking Area: 443 square inches
- Offset Cooking Area: 287 square inches
- Includes oversized steel wheels
Last but not least on my list of the best offset smokers is this Dyna-Glo Signature grill and smoker combo. It is largely inspired by another combo from the Signature series but on a budgeted range. I am currently using this smoker for quite some time for large gatherings and would say the taste is worth the appreciation. Similarly, the fact that it is easy to use makes it a deal for me.
First of all, I would like to appreciate its alloy-steel construction which is highly durable and resists corrosion damage. Here, I also found the porcelain coating quite useful in reducing the chances of damage and easing the cleaning process. This is further accompanied by the oversized wheels with which you can easily carry this around. Overall, the firebox is decently sized to carry the fuel for the longest time.
Likewise, speaking of convenience, the cooking space is fairly large enough to entertain a small group of people. All the racks are designed in a way that gets proportionate heating, making sure all the food gets proper smokey flavor. Here, the manufacturers have added a built-in temp gauge that made it easy for me to adjust the heat for the food. The door seal is incredible in locking the smokey flavor in the food.
Finally, when it comes to cleaning, although the design is a bit challenging, I like the fact that the shelves are removable. Yet, it will take some time to get all the racks out and clean them. The racks are dishwasher safe, so all I would do is throw them in the washer after every week to make sure the grill lasts longer. Similarly, the entire assembly process didn’t take me more than fifteen minutes.
- Large cooking space
- Built-in temp gauge
- Light and durable
- It is affordable
- It has no storage rack
My Review
In conclusion, this Dyna-Glo smoker/ grill combo from the Signature Series is currently the best offset vertical smoker for its well-organized design. I have been using it for day-to-day BBQ sessions and would say the results are absolutely incredible. The food is well-packed with a sealed door that makes sure the meat is filled with a smokey flavor. Similarly, despite being vertical, the heat distribution is the best.
9 – Broil King regal Charcoal Offset XL
Specifications:
- Cooking Surface: Enjoy a generous cooking space with 625 sq. inches on the main surface and a total of 955 sq. inches, providing ample room for your smoking and grilling adventures.
- Warranty: Rest easy with a 5-year warranty for the body and a 2-year warranty for parts, showcasing the manufacturer’s confidence in the durability of the offset smoker.
- Gasket Seal: Experience enhanced sealing with a gasket all around the double-walled cooking chamber door. This feature ensures a tight seal, optimizing heat retention and creating an efficient cooking environment.
- Stainless Steel Charcoal Trays: Benefit from the durability and corrosion resistance of stainless steel charcoal trays, providing a reliable and robust platform for your charcoal setup.
- Heavy-Duty Cast Iron Cooking Grids: Elevate your cooking experience with heavy-duty cast iron cooking grids. These grids not only withstand high temperatures but also contribute to excellent heat retention and distribution for that perfect sear.
- Durable Folding Front Shelf: Convenience meets durability with a folding front shelf that adds an extra level of functionality to the smoker. It provides a handy space for prepping and holding items, folding away when not in use.
- Tool Hooks: Keep your grilling tools within arm’s reach with built-in tool hooks on the folding front shelf. This thoughtful addition adds to the practicality of the smoker, ensuring you have everything you need right where you need it.
Hey there, fellow grill enthusiasts! I’ve had the pleasure of diving into the world of smoking ribs with the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn offset smoker for a couple of weekends now, and I’m ready to spill the beans on my experience.
Let’s start with the not-so-great parts. The packaging left much to be desired. I encountered some rub marks along the back of the smoker, probably due to the sub-par packaging. Not a deal-breaker, but definitely not the kind of welcome I expected.
To tackle those rub marks, I decided to go with a classic solution during the burn-in process – a generous application of oil. It did the trick and smoothed out the marks, so props to that little workaround.
Now, the thermometer. Oh boy, it’s practically decorative. It never budged from bottom out, and to add insult to injury, it’s prone to fogging up. I’d highly recommend having a backup thermometer on hand if you’re serious about nailing those temperatures.
Sealing became a bit of an issue, too. I’m thinking of adding some gasket material to tighten it up. It’s not a major flaw, but sealing is key for efficient smoking.
But, let’s shift gears to the good stuff! Despite those minor hiccups, the Longhorn does its job admirably. With a bit of practice, I’m confident I can whip up some incredible meals. It’s like mastering any skill – you gotta put in the time.
Now, about the door mishap on the first Day cookout – not cool. The door broke, and that was a bit of a downer. Plus, no inside damper door as advertised? C’mon, Oklahoma Joe’s, you can do better on that front.
On the bright side, this thing is built like a tank. Sturdy and with a solid seal – exactly what you need for effective smoking. I found it easy to control the temperature, thanks to the well-designed inlet and exhaust vents. And guess what? It doubles as a charcoal grill, making it a versatile addition to my BBQ arsenal.
I went for the 400 offset charcoal model, and it’s the perfect fit for my small family. We don’t need a massive smoker, and this one delivers just the right amount of space.
Assembly was a breeze – I did it myself to avoid shelling out over a hundred bucks. No missing parts, no headaches. Just me and the smoker, getting to know each other.
And oh, about that mention of a Broil King Offset Smoker in the review – there might be a little mix-up there. We’re talking about the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn, folks!
I’m genuinely pleased with this smoker. It’s everything it should be and more, once you get past those initial speed bumps. It’s all about the end result, right?
Choosing the 400 offset charcoal model was a smart move for my family’s needs. And assembling it myself was a breeze – no missing parts, no frustration.
- Ample Cooking Space: 955 sq. inches for smoking and grilling.
- Impressive Warranty: 5-year body, 2-year parts.
- Enhanced Sealing: Gasket on the double-walled door.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel trays, and heavy-duty cast iron grids.
- Packaging and Thermometer Issues: Sub-par packaging, decorative thermometer, and potential sealing adjustments are needed.
My Review
In the end, as a BBQ enthusiast, I’m a happy camper. The smoker brings joy to my grilling sessions, and the easy clean-up is the cherry on top. Here’s to many more smoke-filled, delicious weekends ahead!
10 – Master built MB20041220 Gravity Series 1050 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo, 1050 sq. in, Black
I’ve been a dedicated Weber Master Touch kettle-style charcoal grill user for a solid two years, come rain or shine. The unique flavor charcoal provides is unparalleled, but the challenges of maintaining heat and flame placement became apparent with heavy usage, ultimately warping my trusty Weber. Enter the Masterbuilt MB20041220 Gravity Series 1050 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo—a game-changer in the world of charcoal grilling.
Let’s talk about the assembly process first. It’s a bit grueling, I won’t lie, and the initial flame startup isn’t as charming as my Weber days. But oh, the benefits that follow are worth every bit of that initial struggle. This grill is nothing short of a technological marvel. It turns charcoal grilling into a nearly effortless experience.
What truly sets this grill apart is its ability to smoke indirectly and perform searing with the manifold. It’s like cheating, but with charcoal. The engineering behind it is just mind-blowing. The manifold not only allows for precise temperature control during smoking, but it also delivers a perfect sear when needed. It’s like having the best of both worlds.
Now, about the price tag—I was hesitant at first. But let me tell you, it’s a no-brainer for charcoal purists like myself. I recently smoked a 16 lb brisket to absolute perfection over 22 hours without lifting a finger. This grill did all the work, and I couldn’t be more impressed.
The longevity of this grill is noteworthy. After more than a year of extensive use, including a 26-hour cook for a brisket, it’s still going strong. I’ve cooked a variety of dishes—turkey, pork butt, briskets, steaks, seafood—and each time, the results have been nothing short of spectacular.
Sure, I’ve had a few hiccups. I had to replace the fan and proximity switch after countless hours of use. But considering the hundreds of hours I’ve spent grilling on this beast, it’s a small price to pay for the consistent performance it delivers.
Now, fast forward to three years of ownership, and I’m still in awe of this grill. It’s the best charcoal grill I could have asked for. I’ve even converted some pellet grill enthusiasts by emphasizing the unmatched taste of charcoal infusion.
Speaking of temperature control, it’s impressive. A seasoned smoker with 40 years of experience praised the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 for its precise temperature management during seasoning. Even for low and slow smoking, historically a struggle for me, this grill demonstrates excellent control.
Sure, the large size can cause uneven temperature distribution, but with a bit of experience, you can easily overcome it. The need for manual lighting is a minor inconvenience, but the temperature control during long smokes, the versatility in handling different cuts of meat, and the overall performance make it all worthwhile.
- Effortless grilling and smoking with a technological edge.
- Impressive temperature control for precise cooking.
- Versatile cooking options, including indirect smoking and searing.
- Longevity and durability, with minimal issues after years of use.
- User-friendly design, making it easy to operate.
- Grueling assembly process may be time-consuming.
- Large size can lead to uneven temperature distribution.
My Review
In conclusion, despite a few quirks, the Masterbuilt MB20041220 Gravity Series 1050 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo has exceeded my expectations. It’s become an integral part of my grilling routine, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything else. If you’re a charcoal purist, this grill is a game-changer.
What to Look for While Buying the Best Offset Smoker: All You Need to Know
The following guidelines of our experts will help you while buying the offset smoker:
What is an Offset Smoker?
Well, in simple words, an offset smoker is a conventional smoker that cooks your food at a low temperature indirectly to make sure the food gets packed with perfect flavor. They use a number of different fuels to generate smoke and diffuse it in the meat, providing you with a flavor from the smoke. Most commonly, you can find them in different shapes, including horizontal, vertical, and cabinet, all of which have their own perks.
Each of these models has a small firebox to keep the fuel and burn it as well as a grill and a smoker in different chambers. The smoke produced by burning these fuels gets transferred to the smoker and eventually the chimney from where it gets out of the smoker. If you are currently in the buying process, here are some of the important things you need to look into while buying the best offset smokers.
What is a Reverse Flow Offset Smoker?
Another question many people have is what is a reverse offset smoker. Well as the name suggests, it uses direct heat to cook the food in the internal chamber. This helps you in using the smoke within the box and emitting it out of the firebox in an opposite direction. All in all, they have adjustable dampers that allow you to control the heat, so you can adjust the heat based on the type of meat you are using for cooking.
What is the Difference Between Reverse Flow Smokers Vs Traditional Offset Smokers?
Now you must be wondering what makes reverse-flow smokers different from traditional ones. The only apparent difference I was able to find between the two is that the reverse smoker is great at providing you with controlled heat. This is because the traditional ones push the smoke from the other side of the firebox, which is the chimney. So, in this case, you are burning the fuel in the firebox that goes through the internal chamber to the chimney and gets out of it.
On the contrary, the reverse smokers have a sealed pan that reverses the air from the system back to the firebox. So, in this case, you have absolute control over how much smoke and heat is getting out of the smoker. This further makes sure the heat and smoke are evenly distributed among all the racks, making the food even more flavorful. They also consume less than usual energy, making them my favorite alternative.
Why Should You Choose an Offset Smoker?
There are a number of reasons why people prefer using an offset smoker, from its ability to provide you with convenience, consistent temperature, and much more. There is a strong belief that once you start using an offset smoker, there is no going back and I can clearly claim this. Here are some reasons why I like using these offset smokers.
Cons of Using an Offset Smoker
Build Quality and Durability
The first and foremost thing you need to consider while buying the best offset smoker is its build quality. Most commonly, options like cast iron, stainless steel, and aluminum are famous, all of which are quite durable. However, irrespective of the material you are going for, it is preferred that the entire unit is coated with porcelain. This will not only protect your smoker from corrosion damage but will make sure cleaning these racks is easy.
Ventilation and Insulation
It is equally important to make sure the smoker has a perfect ratio of ventilation and insulation as it determines the ability of the model to retain heat. For this purpose, you would need small vent holes in the smoker, making sure sufficient air is moving through the smoker. However, make sure the holes are not large enough to let the smoke escape from the smoker.
Cooking Space
It is equally significant to look into the cooking space as it can determine the capacity of food you can cook at a time. Now, it all comes down to the individual requirements, whether you are using this for your family or a large group of friends and families. For a small model, I would advise you to go for something between 500 and 700 square inches. On the contrary, for professional chefs and large gatherings, you need at least something between 1000 and 1500 square inches. All in all, just make sure it is compatible with your demands.
Temperature Controls
Another thing that can make a huge difference while buying a top offset smoker is its temperature control. The majority of these alternatives have a temperature gauge, either at the top or the bottom of the appliance. Both of these positions are easily accessible and offer accurate readings. Here, it is further ideal that you have multiple dampers so that they make sure the heat is perfectly sealed in the smoker, providing you with mouthwatering smokey flavor evenly.
Does it Have a Thermometer?
Now, when we talk about smokers, the temperature is an essential part of the entire thing. Here, if your budget allows, I would always recommend you go for a built-in thermometer, as they are helpful in making sure the smoke is perfectly diffused in the unit. This will assist you in monitoring the heat range in the smoker throughout the cooking process, without even having to bother with the lid. It further helped me in preheating the smoker beforehand.
Storage Facility
Although it is not a necessity, it feels right to have extra storage in the smoker, specifically if you will be using it out of the house or even in the backyard. So, if your budget allows, I would absolutely recommend you go for extra space as it can help you in keeping your essentials, like gloves, charcoal, water, and other things with you while cooking. This has saved me from making different rounds to the kitchen which can be pretty annoying while you are cooking.
Price Range
Another thing that can influence your buying decision is the price range. Now, it is important to understand that everyone has their own budget limitations under which they have to buy something. If you are a beginner and want to invest in an affordable model, I would advise you to at least get around $800 ready. For professionals, you need to at least go $2000. Don’t go down this range or else you will be left with nothing but crap.
Type of Fuel
Similarly, the type of fuel can also make a huge difference in determining the efficiency of the smoker. Most commonly, you can find either charcoal or wood, both of which require a firebox for producing heat. When it comes to traditional models, wood is a great choice as it provides you with control. So, you can choose the right amount of coal for the cooking process in the firebox.
On the contrary, modern alternatives also use electric sources for the entire smoke production. These are quite easy and automatically diffuse the heat in the smoker. However, the downside to this model is that these can be really expensive and difficult to clean. These also provide you with no control over the process, so keep this in mind before you venture into buying.
Cleaning Requirements
As a lazy person, I found cleaning to be the most challenging task when dealing with smokers. Hence, if you are like me while buying the best offset smoker, it is absolutely important that cleaning this smoker is easy. For this purpose, I would recommend you go for removable racks and ashtrays as they can collect any grease leftovers, so you can easily wipe them away. Most of these are dishwasher safe, so all you are required to do is throw them in the washer or Read our complete guide about How to clean smoker.
In the end, I hope this detailed buying guide can help you in choosing the best backyard offset smoker, as per your individual requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Conclusion
In the end, I would say the offset smokers have gotten massively popular among pro chefs and hobbyists who like to enjoy food fully packed with smokey flavor. If you are planning to invest in one, there are some things you need to look into, including construction, cooking space, smoke production, temperature range, and much more. Finally, here are some of my favorites from the list;
Finally, I hope you soon will be able to find the right offset smoker, as per your individual requirements.