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8 Best Offset Smokers To Buy In 2024 | Experts Review

best offset smoker

If you love to serve hot, smoked-flavoured food to guests at your party, then you should invest in the best offset smoker. These versatile cooking devices are designed to provide even heat distribution and excellent smoke circulation, resulting in succulent and flavorful dishes. 

Some of the best offset smokers available in the market are listed below:

1. Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D Charcoal Offset Smoker

The Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D Charcoal is one of the best and is a top contender for the best offset smoker, with a large cooking space of 1,175 square inches, allowing you to cook a big batch of foods at a time. The body is made of heavy gauge, powder-coated steel. The design is vertical, allowing around 150 lbs of food in one go. With its vertical design, it provides efficient heat distribution and smoke circulation for perfectly smoked meats.

Features

This one of the best offset smoker comes with several impressive features.

  • The first one is the built-in thermometer, which indicates the temperature inside the body of the offset. 
  • There is a tray beneath the firebox chamber to collect all the ashes of charcoal and wood, making it convenient to clean. 
  • The design of this vertical offset is such that it is divided into two parts: one is the firebox, and the other is the cooking chamber. When charcoal or wood is burnt, the heat is transferred to the cooking chamber, and that heat is used to cook the food. 
  • The Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D also has adjustable dampers for precise temperature control.

How to Use

Using the Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D Charcoal Offset Smoker is straightforward. Start by loading the firebox with charcoal and lighting it. Once the charcoal is hot and turning grey, add wood chunks or chips to create smoke. Place your meat on the cooking grates in the main chamber, ensuring it is evenly spaced for optimal heat distribution. Dampers can be easily adjusted to control temperature and airflow. You can monitor the temperature also as the product has a built-in thermometer.

Pros

  • The vertical cooking chamber has many compartments where you can cook food in large quantities, making it an ideal offset for parties. 
  • The built-in thermometer ensures accurate temperature, so you don’t have to worry about the fluctuation of temperature. 
  • Additionally, the charcoal and ash management system simplifies cleanup.

Cons

  •  Some users have mentioned that the smoker may require extra sealing to prevent smoke leakage.


Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D Charcoal Offset Smoker

  • You don’t have to worry about the fluctuation of temperature. 

2. Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker

The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker is considered one of the best offset smoker available on the market. It is highly regarded for its exceptional construction, versatile features, and efficient heat distribution. With its ample cooking space and solid build, this smoker is a reliable choice for barbecue enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Features

  • Generous Cooking Space

 The Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker offers a total cooking area of 1,060 square inches, providing ample room to smoke a large quantity of food at once. It features multiple cooking grates, allowing for versatile cooking options and the ability to cook different types of meat simultaneously.

  • Reverse Flow Technology

This best offset smoker incorporates a reverse flow system, ensuring even heat distribution throughout the cooking chamber. The heat and smoke flow from the firebox to the opposite end of the smoker before returning to the main cooking chamber, resulting in consistent temperatures and perfectly smoked food.

  • Durable construction

The material used to build is high-quality heavy gauge steel; the Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker is designed to withstand high temperatures and provide excellent heat retention. This sturdy construction ensures durability and longevity, making it a reliable investment for long-term use.

  • Convenient Access and Management

The smoker features multiple access points, including a large front door and a firebox door, allowing easy access for adding charcoal or wood chips. The built-in thermometer allows us to check the accuracy of temperature without any errors.

  •  Dampers

The adjustable dampers on both chambers allow adjusting the airflow and heat. This feature enables users to easily adjust the temperature inside the smoker, ensuring optimal cooking conditions.

How to Use

  • Preparing the Smoker

 Before using the Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker, it is important to season it properly. Coat the interior surfaces with a thin layer of cooking oil and heat it to a high temperature for a few hours. Seasoning helps create a non-stick surface and prevents rust.

  • Starting the Fire

 Start by adding charcoal or wood chunks to the firebox and ignite them using a chimney starter or lighter cubes. Once the coals are adequately lit, close the firebox smoker door and adjust the dampers to achieve the desired temperature.

  • Managing the Temperature

Monitor the temperature using the built-in thermometer and adjust the dampers accordingly to maintain the desired heat. The reverse flow design of the smoker helps distribute heat evenly, but it is still essential to monitor and make adjustments as needed.

  • Adding Wood Chips

 To infuse your food with smoky flavor, periodically add wood chips or chunks to the firebox. One tip is to soak the wood chips in water in advance. It will prevent the wood from burning quickly. After soaking the wood, place it on top of the hot coals; this will give a flavorful and aromatic smell to your food. 

Pros

  • The reverse flow technology of the Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker ensures even heat distribution throughout the cooking chamber, resulting in perfectly cooked food.
  • With its generous cooking space, this best offset smoker allows for the preparation of large quantities of food, making it suitable for gatherings and events.
  • The heavy-gauge steel construction ensures durability and longevity, allowing for years of reliable use.
  • The multiple cooking grates provide flexibility, allowing users to smoke different types of meat simultaneously or adjust the cooking space as needed.

Cons

  • Due to its large size and heavy construction, the Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker may be challenging to transport or store for those with limited space.
  • As with any best offset smoker  , there may be a learning curve involved in achieving optimal temperature control and smoke flavor. It may take some practice and experimentation to master the art of smoking with this unit.

Overall, the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker is a top-notch best offset smoker that offers exceptional cooking performance and durability. Its advanced features, ample cooking space, and efficient heat distribution make it a reliable choice for barbecue enthusiasts and professionals seeking to achieve delicious, smoky flavors in their culinary creations.

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Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker

  • Heavy-gauge steel construction ensures durability and longevity, allowing for years of reliable use.

3. Broil-King Smoke Offset Charcoal Smoker

The Broil King Smoke XL 32-inch Offset Charcoal Smoker is a top product for the title of the best offset smoker. Despite being called a stick burner, offset smokers work best when fueled with a combination of wood and charcoal. If you want to cook like a pitmaster or compete in barbecue competitions, this smoker is an excellent choice.

The Broil King Smoke XL 32-inch Offset Charcoal Smoker is a high-quality best offset smoker designed to deliver exceptional cooking results. It features a spacious cooking chamber, durable construction, and innovative features that make it a standout choice for serious barbecue enthusiasts.

Features

  • Large Cooking Space

With a total cooking space of 955 square inches, this smoker offers ample room for cooking delicious meals for family gatherings or larger events.

  • Construction

 The dimensions of this smoker are 2 mm .14 gauge steel. The steel is painted with a black high heat paint finish. The smoker is constructed of 2mm, 14-gauge steel with a black, heat resistant paint finish, which increases its durability, making it long-lasting.

  • Charcoal Trays

The charcoal tray of the smoker is dual-purpose, which allows you to adjust the heat and smoke according to your taste.

  • Cast Iron Cooking Grids

 The heavy-duty cast iron cooking grids provide excellent heat retention and even heat distribution for consistent cooking results.

  • Temperature Control

The smoker features adjustable dampers that allow you to control the airflow and maintain the desired cooking temperature.

  • Easy Access

The smoker has a front-access door that allows you to add fuel or adjust the charcoal trays without disturbing the cooking process.

How to Use

  • How to start the smoker

It is advised to heat at a high temperature and coat the inside surfaces with cooking oil before starting the cooking. It will help to create a protective layer and prevent the food from sticking.

  • Fill up the charcoal tray

Fill up the charcoal trays with wood and charcoal. Light the charcoal using a chimney starter or other preferred method.

  • Adjusting the Temperature

Use the adjustable dampers to control the airflow and maintain the desired cooking temperature. Open the dampers for higher temperatures and close them for lower temperatures.

  • Adding Wood Chips

To infuse your food with a smoky flavor, add soaked wood chips or chunks to the charcoal trays as needed.

  • Cooking

 Place your food on the cooking grids and close the smoker’s lid. Monitor the temperature and adjust the dampers as necessary to maintain the desired cooking conditions.

  • Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning is a must for any product to last long. After every use, clean the grids and remove any ash or residue from the charcoal trays. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper maintenance and storage.

Pros

  • The cooking space is 955 square inches, making it the best offset smoker to cook large quantities of food at once, making it ideal for gatherings or events.
  • The 2mm, 14-gauge steel construction ensures long-lasting durability and heat retention.
  • The dual-purpose charcoal trays and adjustable dampers give you full control over the heat and smoke levels, allowing for a wide range of cooking techniques and flavors.
  • The front-access door makes it convenient to add fuel or adjust the charcoal trays without disrupting the cooking process.

Cons

  • The Broil King Smoke XL 32-inch Offset Charcoal Smoker is a higher-priced option compared to some other models on the market.
  • As with any other best offset smoker , there may be a learning curve to achieve optimal cooking results and temperature control. It may take some practice to master the art of offset smoking.

In conclusion, the Broil King Smoke Offset Charcoal Smoker is a top-notch best offset smoker that offers excellent cooking capabilities and durability. With its large cooking space, heavy-duty construction, and innovative features, it is a great choice for barbecue enthusiasts who value performance and quality. While it may require some practice to achieve optimal results, the Broil King Smoke  Offset Charcoal Smoker is definitely a contender for the title of the best offset smoker on the market.

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Broil-King Smoke Offset Charcoal Smoker

  • The cooking space is 955 square inches, making it the best offset smoker to cook large quantities of food at once.

4. Char-Griller Competition Charcoal Grill

The Char-Griller Competition Charcoal Grill is a versatile and one of the best  offset smoker that offers a wide range of cooking options. 

Features

  • Char-Griller is known for its enormous space, making it an excellent choice for parties. With a large cooking space, it’s easy to cook a huge quantity at a time. 
  • It also has a side firebox that can be used for direct grilling or as a smoker. 
  • The built-in thermometer makes sure to have accurate temperature control. 
  • The adjustable dampers make the airflow smooth, making uninterrupted smoke production. 
  • The grills are of high quality, making them easy to use and maintain. So by using this product, you can cook delicious food.

How to use

The use of a char-griller competition charcoal grill is easy. First, assemble it according to the instructions available in the manual. The first step to using the grill is to oil it with cooking oil, protecting the grill from rust and preventing the food from sticking on the grills, creating a non-stick surface.

Next, place the sack of charcoal near you so you don’t have to rush to bring coal. Place charcoal in the firebox, light it and allow it to burn until it starts making smoke. Adjust your dampers for a smooth airflow so they can control the temperature and smoke production.

Once the grills are hot enough, place your food on the surface or in the firebox as per your desire. The built-in thermometer can monitor temperature. Don’t forget to add charcoal or wood to the firebox chamber as per the need. Cook your food to perfection, adding wood chips or chunks for additional smoke flavor if desired.

 So, the char-griller competition charcoal grill is one of the best offsets available in the market. The construction is sturdy and durable, and the big cooking space makes it a great option to buy.

Although there may be a learning curve, it is a good option among other offsets.  

NOw it’s up to you whether you want to grill or smoke your food, as both options are available in this product. 

Pros

  • The material used in construction is of high quality, making it a sturdy product that can withstand high temperatures and heavy use.
  •  With its huge main cooking surface, a big batch of food can be cooked at a time.
  • The firebox can be used for grilling or smoking, thus making it a versatile smoker.
  • Temperature can be easily monitored by the thermometer, so we don’t have to worry about the food being uncooked or overcooked.
  • As we know, dampers control the airflow, making smooth production of smoke and making the cooking process easy.

Cons

  • There are bad reviews regarding the hang of temperature and smoke management. 
  • This grill is costly as compared to other smokers in the market. So it is not suitable to buy if you have a tight budget. 

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Char-Griller Competition Charcoal Grill

  • The firebox can be used for grilling or smoking, thus making it a versatile smoker.

5. Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker

The Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker is a popular choice for barbecue enthusiasts who crave the authentic flavor of smoked meats. This offset smoker combines traditional design with modern features, making it a versatile and easy-to-use option for both smoking and grilling. With its large cooking surface and thoughtful construction, this smoker is designed to deliver delicious results every time.

Features

The Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker boasts several noteworthy features that set it apart from other smokers in its class. Firstly, it has a huge cooking surface of 1,280 sq. inches, allowing it to smoke and grill a big batch of food at a time. The grates are coated with porcelain and a secondary chrome-plated grate. Thus making proper and even heat flow easy to maintain.

The smoking chamber has multiple dampers for a uniform flow of air and precise control over smoke levels. It makes sure that food is cooked properly, with the perfect flavor of smoke. The adjustable charcoal tray enables the regulation of the heat flow, making the cooking more convenient.

The Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker also features a vertical smokestack, which helps to draw smoke and heat through the chamber, resulting in consistent and flavorful results. The cool-touch handles add convenience and safety, protecting your hands from hot surfaces. The front side shelf is used to prepare and serve food.

How to Use

Using the Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort. Begin by preparing your desired meat or vegetables and seasoning them to your taste. The next step is to place charcoal in the tray And light it with the help of a lighter.

When the charcoal has heated to the desired temperature, please place it in the tray and allow the dampers to get the required heat and smoke levels.

Next, place your food on the grates, ensuring even spacing for proper airflow. The built-in thermometer gauge monitors temperature. Periodically check the food and rotate or flip it as necessary for even cooking.

Pros

  • Large cooking surface of 1,280 sq. in., providing ample room for smoking and grilling.
  • Multiple dampers for precise heat and smoke control.
  • Height-adjustable charcoal tray for regulating heat intensity.
  • Vertical smokestack for consistent smoke distribution.
  • Three porcelain-coated grates and a secondary chrome-plated grate for even heat distribution and easy maintenance.
  • Cool-touch handles for added safety.
  • Front shelf for convenient workspace.
  • Easy to maintain

Cons

  • The product comes with a warning that the combustion byproducts contain chemicals known to cause cancer, congenital disabilities, and reproductive harm.

Overall, the Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker stands out as a top choice for barbecue enthusiasts looking for a reliable and versatile offset smoker. Its spacious cooking surface, precise heat and smoke control, and convenient features make it a great addition to any backyard or outdoor cooking setup. With proper care and maintenance, this offset smoker is sure to help you achieve mouthwatering smoked and grilled dishes that will impress your family and friends.

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Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker

  • Easy to maintain

6. Oklahoma Joe’s Smoker Combo

The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Smoker Grill Combo is a versatile and attractive cooker that combines a smoker and a gas grill. With its offset firebox, three-burner propane grill, and dedicated side burner, this combo offers barbecue enthusiasts the ability to smoke and grill their favorite dishes in one convenient unit. The solid construction and sturdy wheels ensure durability and easy mobility. However, it’s important to note that “all in one combos” like this may not excel in grilling or smoking capabilities.

Features

The Oklahoma Joe’s Smoker Combo features a smoker grate size of 19.25 x 18.5 inches and a gas grill grate size of the same dimensions. It is equipped with 36,000 BTUs and weighs 205 pounds, providing ample cooking power and stability. The offset firebox allows for traditional smoking techniques, while the three-burner propane grill offers versatility for direct grilling. The dedicated side burner is perfect for heating sauces or preparing side dishes. The grates are solidly built, ensuring even heat distribution and excellent sear marks on grilled food.

How to Use

To use the Oklahoma Joe’s Smoker Combo:

  1. Start by assembling the unit according to the provided instructions.
  2. Ensure that all components are securely connected and in place.
  3. For smoking, load the offset firebox with charcoal or wood chunks and ignite them.
  4. Adjust the dampers to control the airflow and maintain the desired temperature.
  5. Place your food on the grill grates and adjust the burners to achieve the desired heat level.
  6. Use the side burner for additional cooking tasks as needed.

Pros

  •  The combo unit allows for both smoking and grilling, providing a range of cooking options.
  • The unit is well-built, featuring sturdy grates and wheels for durability and easy mobility.
  • The offset design enables traditional smoking techniques and enhances the flavors of smoked dishes.
  •  The side burner adds convenience for heating sauces or cooking side dishes.
  • The solid construction and well-designed grates ensure even heat distribution for consistent cooking results.

Cons

  • The smoker side of the grill lacks proper drainage, requiring the use of a drip pan to prevent messes.
  • Some customers have reported issues such as quick burnout of heat shields and burner tubes, peeling paint, rusting, and poor heat distribution into the smoker side.
  • “All in one combos” like this may not excel in grilling or smoking capabilities compared to dedicated smokers or grills.

Overall, the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Smoker Grill Combo offers barbecue enthusiasts the convenience of both smoking and grilling in one unit. While it has some drawbacks, such as mixed customer reviews and a lack of specialization, it remains a versatile option for those looking to enjoy delicious smoked and grilled dishes.

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Oklahoma Joe’s Smoker Combo

  • The combo unit allows for both smoking and grilling, providing a range of cooking options.

7. Char-Griller 1224 Smokin Offset Smoker

The Char-Griller 1224 Smokin Offset Smoker is a popular choice for barbecue enthusiasts looking for a reliable and versatile offset smoker. With its sturdy construction and ample cooking space, this offset smoker offers a great smoking experience.

Features

  • One of the standout features of the Char-Griller 1224 Smokin Offset Smoker is its Side Fire Box, which allows for the infusion of that authentic Texas smoke flavor into your food. This feature is loved by those who like the rich and smoky flavor. 
  • The adjustable fire grate and heat gauge make sure that the temperature is controlled, allowing you to get the perfect level of heat.
  • The double bottom design of the Char-Griller 1224 Smokin Offset Smoker not only enhances its durability but also helps to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. It is crucial for achieving perfectly smoked meats and other dishes.

How To Use

Using the Char-Griller 1224 Smokin Offset Smoker is relatively straightforward. To get started, first, assemble the smoker with the help of the manual included in the packaging of the product. Once assembled, it is recommended to season the smoker before use. Seasoning means to coat the cooking grates with oil and heat the smoker to 450°F for about 20 minutes. You should  Repeat the same process a few times. It will help to protect both the interior and exterior grill finish, thus preventing it from rusting.

When it comes to using the Char-Griller 1224 Smokin Offset Smoker, it is essential to monitor the temperature closely. It can be done by adjusting the dampers and using the heat gauge to ensure that the smoker stays at the desired temperature. The offset design allows for indirect heat, which is ideal for slow smoking. You can place your preferred wood chips or chunks in the firebox to generate smoke, and the heat will be drawn over the food in the main cooking chamber, infusing it with delicious smoky flavors.

Pros

  • The sturdy construction and double-bottom design ensure durability and heat retention, allowing for consistent and even cooking. 
  • The Side Fire Box provides that authentic Texas smoke flavor, enhancing the taste of your food. 
  • The ample cooking space, with two slide-out cooking grates and a total cooking area of 1,200 square inches, allows you to smoke large quantities of food at once.
  •  Additionally, the front shelf and bottom shelf provide convenient storage space for your grilling tools and accessories.

Cons

  • Some complaints have reported that the paint on the smoker tends to come out after some time, which can be bad for health. 
  • Additionally, the assembly process may require a second person for certain parts, and it can take around an hour to complete.

Overall, the Char-Griller 1224 Smokin Offset Smoker is a reliable and versatile best offset smoker that offers great features and performance. Whether you are a seasoned barbecue pro or a beginner looking to dive into the world of smoking, this offset smoker is worth considering for its durability, Texas smoke flavor, and ample cooking space.

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Char-Griller 1224 Smokin Offset Smoker

  • The ample cooking space, with two slide-out cooking grates and a total cooking area of 1,200 square inches, allows you to smoke large quantities of food at once.

8. Traeger Pro 575 Wi-Fi Pellet Grill And Smoker

  Traeger Pro is among the best offset smoker that has features which make cooking easy. It is easy to assemble and the best part is it has Wi-Fi connectivity. You can control the grill from one touch of your phone or tablet. Invest in it if you love outdoor cooking.

Features

The Traeger Pro 575 Wi-Fi Pellet Grill and Smoker have many features that make it a good choice to buy. Some of the prominent features are:

  • Wi-fi  connectivity
  •  Builtin thermometer
  • Huge size pellet hopper
  • Large cooking area of 575 square inches

Pros

  • Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Large cooking area
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Product is expensive
  • requires electricity
  • pellets are expensive

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Traeger Pro 575 Wi-Fi Pellet Grill And Smoker

  • Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Easy to clean

Conclusion

All products are good in their own ways. Every product has its pros and cons. Buy a product which attracts you by looking at its features, useability, and durability.

Our Choice

But if you ask my opinion, I will suggest Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D Charcoal Offset Smoker as my recommendation. This one is the best Offset Smoker and it is a reliable and efficient choice for achieving that perfect smoky flavor in your barbecue. With its excellent heat regulation, smoke distribution, spacious cooking area, and safety features, it’s no wonder why this smoker is a top pick among BBQ enthusiasts. Just remember to take the necessary precautions and enjoy the mouthwatering results that this best offset smoker can deliver.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an offset smoker?

An offset smoker is a  smoker that has two compartments. A firebox and a main cooking chamber. A firebox is used to burn wood or charcoal. The smoke and heat are transferred to the cooking chamber to cook the food.

2. What are the advantages of using an offset smoker?

The advantage of using an offset smoker is it allows accurate temperature control.Due to its larger cooking space, it is ideal for cooking for large groups of people.

3. Can I use an offset smoker for grilling?

Yes, many offset smokers come with grill grates that can be placed over the firebox, allowing you to grill meats and vegetables as well as smoke them.

4. What types of fuel can be used in an offset smoker?

 Most offset smokers are designed to use wood or charcoal, although some models may also be able to use propane or natural gas.

5. How do I maintain my offset smoker?

 Regular cleaning is important to keep your offset smoker in good condition. You should also season the cooking grates and oil the hinges and latches to prevent rust.

6. Can I use an offset smoker in cold weather?

Yes, offset smokers can be used in cold weather, although you may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature to account for the colder ambient temperature.

7. How much does an best offset smoker cost?

 The cost depends on many factors like brand, size, and features. Simple models with fewer features are under $200, while high-end products with more features can cost several thousand dollars.

8. Do I need any special equipment to use an offset smoker?

While not strictly necessary, some accessories can make using an offset smoker easier and more effective. For example, a chimney starter can help you get your charcoal or wood burning quickly and evenly.

9. What is the duration of time to cook in an offset smoker?

 The cooking time is dependent on the type of food going to be cooked. Generally, it takes about 1-1.5 hours of cooking time per pound of meat.

10. Can I smoke fish or vegetables in an offset smoker?

Yes, that’s the beauty of an offset smoker. You can smoke every kind of meat, including fish and vegetables. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature to cook the food.

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