Are you looking to take your grilling to the next level by finding the best offset smoker for your next cookout? If so, you’ve come to the right place!
In this blog post, we’ll profile the top 5 smokers on the market and provide expert reviews of each one.
We will start by going over exactly what an offset smoker is, but if you want to skip to the reviews, you can click here.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced smoker, there’s sure to be a smoker here that meets your needs. So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Article Sections
What is an Offset Smoker?
An offset smoker is a device designed to cook food indirectly at low temperatures in a smoky environment. Offset smokers typically look like regular charcoal grills but with 2 separate chambers, one for cooking in and a second small firebox attached to one side. The firebox is where you’ll add wood or charcoal to create smoke that will eventually make its way into the main cooking chamber.
Offset smokers are ideal for people who want to produce a lot of smoked food in one batch. Most offset smokers today have shelves inside the cooking chamber so that you can smoke multiple racks of ribs, pork shoulders, and briskets simultaneously. This makes them perfect for backyard parties or family gatherings.
While offset smokers are available all over the world, the Texas oil fields claim to have originally developed them, and have slowly gained popularity worldwide from there.
Recently, there’s been a trend where many people are turning to offset smokers as their preferred method of smoking meat.
How Does an Offset Smoker Work?
Offset smokers are one of the most popular types of smokers on the market. But how do they work? An offset smoker works by using a firebox that is separate from the main cooking chamber. The heat from the firebox travels through a connecting pipe to the cooking chamber, where it cooks the food. This type of smoker is known for its even heat distribution and consistent temperature.
What are the Benefits of Using an Offset Smoker?
For any budding chef looking to add a new smoker to their collection, an offset smoker is a great option. Here are just a few of the benefits of using an offset smoker:
- They are extremely versatile and can be used for smoking a variety of different foods (not just meat, but veggies and other foods as well).
- They offer excellent temperature control, so you can easily create the perfect environment for smoked foods. And as anyone who has used a smoker before knows – being able to control the temperature in the smoker is absolutely crucial.
- They produce less smoke than other types of smokers, making them ideal for use in areas where there are strict smoking regulations.
- Offset smokers are relatively affordable, making them a great option for budget-minded BBQ enthusiasts. So, if you’re looking for a smoker that offers both versatility and value, an offset smoker is definitely worth considering.
What are the Different Types of Offset Smokers?
There are three main types of offset smokers: vertical, horizontal, and reverse flow.
Vertical offset smokers have an upright vertical shape and the cooking area is divided into multiple levels where the smoke ascends vertically. The firebox is situated diagonally off to one side of the vertical unit. The primary advantage of vertical offset smoker cookers is the fact that they have a very big cooking area and many of the benefits of a traditional offset smoker but in a much more compact footprint.
Horizontal offset smokers are built on a horizontal plane with a long cooking chamber. They offer a considerably larger cooking area than their vertical counterparts but also take up greater space on your backyard or patio.
Reverse flow offset smokers have the smokestack situated on the firebox end of the smoker instead of on the opposite end. This slight change in design makes a world of difference as the heat and smoke from the firebox are forced to travel across the entire length of the smoker and back in order to be able to leave through the smokestack.
Each type of offset smoker has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best meets your needs.
How to Choose the Best Offset Smoker Grill for You
When it comes to choosing the best offset smoker, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. First, consider what size smoker you’ll need. If you’re only smoking for a small group of people, a smaller smoker will suffice. However, if you’re looking to smoke large quantities of food at once, you’ll need a larger smoker.
Another important factor to consider is the type of fuel you want to use. Offset smokers can be powered by either charcoal, wood, or pellets. If you’re looking for a smoker that’s easy to set up and maintain, charcoal or pellet smokers are the way to go.
However, if you’re looking for a smoker that produces richer flavor, wood is the better option. In many cases, people will use a charcoal smoker and then add some wood for flavor.
Finally, make sure to choose an offset smoker that’s made from high-quality materials.
Cheaply made smokers are more likely to rust and break down over time. So, it’s important to invest in a well-made smoker that will last for years to come.
By keeping these factors in mind, you should have no trouble finding the best offset smoker for your needs.
The Best Offset Smoker Reviews
If you’re looking for the best offset smoker, look no further! Here are the 5 best options on the market, based on reviews and top picks:
The Best Offset Smoker Brands
1. Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker
The Dyna-Glo vertical offset smoker is an excellent option for anyone who loves the taste of smoked food but doesn’t want to deal with the hassle of a traditional smoker. This unit is designed to be used with charcoal, and it features an offset firebox that allows you to control the level of smoke and heat. The Dyna-Glo also has a porcelain-coated water pan that helps to create steam, which keeps food moist during the smoking process. And because it’s vertical, the Dyna-Glo takes up less space than a traditional smoker, making it an excellent option for anyone with limited outdoor space. If you’re looking for an easy-to-use smoker that produces delicious results, the Dyna-Glo vertical offset smoker is a great choice.
2. Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Reverse Flow Smoker
If you’re in the market for a smoker that can handle large cuts of meat, the Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Reverse Flow Smoker is a great option. This smoker features four removable baffles that direct heat and smoke evenly across the cooking chamber, meaning your food will come out juicy and flavorful every time. The reverse flow design also helps to minimize hot spots, so you don’t have to worry about uneven cooking. And with a whopping 1,060 square inches of cooking space, this smoker can accommodate even the largest cuts of meat. So if you’re looking for a top-quality smoker that can handle big cookouts, the Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Reverse Flow Smoker is a great choice.
3. Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
The Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker is a great addition to any backyard. This grill features two separate cooking chambers, so you can cook different foods at different temperatures. The offset smoker chamber is perfect for slow-cooked meats, while the main grilling chamber is ideal for burgers, hot dogs, and other quick-cooking foods. The CC1830SC also comes with a cover, so you can keep your grill protected from the elements when not in use. Overall, the Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker is a great option for anyone who wants to enjoy both grilling and smoking in their backyard.
4. Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker
No matter what kind of smoker you are looking for, the Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker is a great option to consider. This smoker is designed for both novice and experienced smokers alike, and it is easy to use. The smoker has two doors, so you can easily access the interior without having to reach over hot coals. It also has an adjustable air damper, so you can control the amount of smoke that is produced. The smoker also comes with a removable ash pan, so you can easily clean up after smoking. Overall, the Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker is a great choice for anyone who wants an easy-to-use smoker that produces excellent results.
5. Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker
The Masterbuilt MB20071117 digital electric smoker is one of the best on the market, and it’s perfect for beginner and experienced smokers alike. It’s easy to use, with a digital control panel that makes it simple to set the temperature and time. The smoking chamber is large enough to accommodate multiple racks of food, and the insulation helps to ensure that heat is evenly distributed. The smoker also comes with a built-in meat thermometer, so you can always be sure that your food is cooked to perfection. Best of all, the Masterbuilt MB20071117 is affordably priced, making it a great value for your money.
Tips For Using An Offset Smoker
Any true barbecue lover knows that offset smokers are the way to go if you want to achieve that perfect smoky flavor. However, offset smokers can be tricky to use, and it’s easy to end up with dry, overcooked meat to avoid that here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your offset smoker:
- Start with a clean cooker. Any grease or debris from previous cooks can impact the flavor of your food, so make sure the smoker is clean before you start.
- Preheat the smoker before adding your food. This will help to ensure that the temperature is evenly distributed.
- Add wood chips or pellets to the fire for smoke flavor. Soak the chips in water for 30 minutes before adding them to the fire.
- Place your food on the upper racks of the smoker so it isn’t directly over the heat source. This will help to prevent overcooking.
- Keep an eye on the temperature and adjust as needed. The ideal temperature for smoking meat is between 225 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make mouth-watering smoked meats that are juicy and full of flavor. So fire up that offset smoker and get cooking!
The Best Offset Smoker Under 1000
Offset smokers are a great choice for anyone looking to get into smoking meat. They provide even heat distribution and consistent temperatures, resulting in perfectly smoked meats every time. The best offset smoker under 1000 dollars is the Smoke Hollow Pro Series 34-Inch Smoker. It has a large cooking area, digital temperature control, and a built-in thermometer, making it easy to smoke meat like a pro.
The Best Offset Smoker Under 500
If you’re looking for an offset smoker that is under 500 dollars, there are a few great options to choose from. One option is the Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker. This smoker is extremely affordable at just over 200 dollars, and it offers a lot of features that make it a great choice for smoking food. It has a large cooking area, as well as an adjustable firebox that allows you to control the heat and smoke output. Another great option is the Masterbuilt 20075315 Bluetooth Smart Digital Electric Smoker. This smoker is slightly more expensive than the Char-Broil smoker, but it offers some great features that make it worth the extra cost.
What is the Best Offset Smoker for Beginners
If you’re looking for best offset smoker as a beginner, you want to be looking for the that you easiest to use and one has the features that you need. Some smokers have a lot of bells and whistles, but if you don’t know how to use them, they are not going to do you any good. You also want a smoker that is easy to clean.
Some of the features that you may want to look for include a temperature gauge, an ash catcher, and a water pan. The temperature gauge will help you to keep track of the temperature inside the smoker, while the ash catcher will make it easier to clean up after smoking. The water pan is a big help when it comes to keeping the meat moist. Another thing to consider when choosing a smoker is size. If you only plan on smoking a small amount of meat at a time, then you don’t need a large smoker.
What is the Best Offset Smoker for Home Use Only
There are a lot of different offset smokers on the market, so it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. If you’re only going to be using your smoker for home use, then experts recommend getting either the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn or the Camp Chef Smoke Vault. Both of these smokers are easy to use and produce great results.
If you’re looking for a smoker that’s a bit more versatile, then the best offset smoker for you might be the Pit Boss 71700FB. This smoker can be used for both home and commercial use, and it features a built-in meat probe so that you can always keep an eye on your food.
Where to Find the Best Offset Smoker to Buy
Once you’ve done your research and have an idea of what you’re looking for in a smoker (along with its strengths and weaknesses) you can either buy your smoker at a store in person or online.
Sometimes it can be a good idea to look at smokers in person before you buy one.
That way if you buy online, you’ll have a better idea of what the smoker will actually be like.
Another thing to consider before buying your smoker, is to watch some YouTube videos on the kind of meat that you’d like to smoke.
This will give you a general idea of how smokers work and if the smoker you’re looking at will meet your needs, in addition to getting ideas for recipes and seeing how different smokers work in real life.
The Best Offset Smoker for the Money
Offset smokers are a great investment for the backyard cook. With their even heat and smoke distribution, you can get perfectly smoked meats every time.
Overall, we’d have to say that the Charbroil American Gourmet Offset Smoker offers the best value overall.
Of course, if you need something a little more portable, you could get one of the swing away fire pit grills here.
Related to the outdoors and cookouts, if you want to add some ambience to your back yard, you should check out this death star fire pit we reviewed.
FAQs About Offset Smokers
What is the difference between offset smokers and reverse flow smokers?
Offset smokers have a firebox that is offset to one side of the smoker. This design helps to evenly distribute heat and smoke throughout the cooking chamber. Reverse flow smokers have a baffle plate that runs horizontally across the smoker. This baffle directs heat and smoke upwards before it circulates back down through the cooking chamber.
How to clean an offset smoker
Offset smokers require a bit more maintenance than other types of smokers. The first step is to remove all of the ashes from the firebox. Next, you'll need to clean out the horizontal chamber and main smoking chamber. Be sure to use a brush with soft bristles so that you don't damage the smoker's interior. Finally, wipe down the exterior of the smoker with a damp cloth.
What is a traditional offset smoker?
The traditional offset smoker is a barrel-shaped smoker that has a firebox on one end and an exhaust chimney on the other. The food is placed in a cooking chamber that is located between the firebox and the chimney.
What is the best reverse offset smoker?
There are a lot of different reverse offset smokers on the market, so it can be tough to choose the best one. However, there are a few things you should look for that will help you narrow down your choices. First, make sure the smoker has enough space to accommodate the amount of food you want to cook. If you plan on smoking large cuts of meat, you'll need a smoker with a large cooking chamber. Second, take a look at the construction of the smoker. Look for smokers that are made from heavy-duty materials like stainless steel. These smokers will last longer and stand up better to the elements. Finally, consider your budget. There are some great reverse offset smokers on the market, but they can be pricey. With these factors in mind, you're sure to find the best reverse offset smoker for your needs.
What is the difference between the pellet grill and the gas grill?
When it comes to grilling, there are two main types of grills: gas and pellet. Gas grills use propane or natural gas to generate heat, while pellet grills use wood pellets that are burned in order to create heat. Both types of grills have their own benefits and drawbacks. Gas grills tend to be less expensive than pellet grills and they're also easier to set up. Pellet grills, on the other hand, offer more consistent temperatures and better flavor. When it comes to deciding between a gas grill and a pellet grill, it really comes down to personal preference. Here’s a breakdown of the difference between the pellet grill and the gas grill. Pellet grills use charcoal or wood pellets as fuel. The pellets are fed into a hopper, and the heat is regulated by a thermostat. This makes them very easy to use – you just set the temperature and let them cook. Pellet grills also come with smoke boxes, which add flavor to your food. Gas grills use propane or natural gas as fuel. They are more versatile than pellet grills, as they can be used for both direct and indirect heat cooking methods.
