An offset smoker is a specific type of smoker intended for preparing meat and a variety of other dishes using indirect heat. The term ‘offset smoker’ is derived from the positioning of the firebox to one side of the food compartment, resulting in more uniform heat and smoke distribution. Many BBQ enthusiasts favor offset smokers due to their ability to offer a genuine smoking experience and manage a substantial amount of food in a single cooking cycle.
When it comes to purchasing the best offset smoker, there are a few things to consider. The first is the size of the cooking chamber. This will depend on how much food you plan on cooking at once. You’ll also want to consider the thickness of the metal, as thicker metal will hold heat better and provide a more consistent temperature. Other factors to consider include the type of wood you’ll be using for smoking, the quality of the welds, and the overall construction of the smoker.
After researching and testing several offset smokers, we’ve identified the top options for anyone looking to purchase the best offset smoker. These smokers offer a combination of quality construction, consistent temperature, and ample cooking space to make your BBQ experience a success.
Best Offset Smokers
We have researched and tested various offset smokers to bring you the best options available on Amazon. Whether you are a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner, an offset smoker is a great addition to your outdoor cooking equipment. With its unique design, it allows for a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process, resulting in perfectly smoked meats every time. Below is our list of the best offset smokers that will help you achieve that perfect smoky flavor in your meats.
1. Royal Gourmet CC1830M Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
Royal Gourmet CC1830M Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
If you are looking for an affordable grill with an offset smoker, the Royal Gourmet CC1830M may be the one for you.
Pros
- The 811 sq. in. cooking surface allows you to cook for a crowd during game-day parties and family reunions.
- The offset smoker allows you to get tasty and authentic smoky flavors in the main chamber.
- The lid-mounted thermometer gauge helps monitor heat fluctuations and minimizes your hands-on time.
Cons
- You may need to spend more hands-on time and temperature monitoring than with gas grills.
- Some users have reported difficulty with assembly.
- The metal pieces are thin, which may affect the durability of the grill.
We recently had the chance to try out the Royal Gourmet CC1830M Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker, and we were impressed with its performance. The cooking surface is spacious, allowing us to cook multiple items at once, and the offset smoker added delicious smoky flavors to our meats. We did find that we needed to spend more time monitoring the temperature compared to gas grills, but the lid-mounted thermometer gauge helped make this easier. Assembly was a bit of a challenge, but we were able to figure it out with some patience and the included instructions. While the metal pieces are thin, we found that the grill held up well during our testing. Overall, we think the Royal Gourmet CC1830M is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable offset smoker grill option.
2. Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30″ BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker
Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30″ BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker
If you’re looking for a versatile offset smoker that can also double as a charcoal grill, the Royal Gourmet CC1830S might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- The 811 square inches of cooking surface is more than enough to cook for a large group of people.
- The offset smoker is firmly attached to the grill to ensure good circulation of heat and smoke, resulting in tasty smoke flavors.
- The 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan creates better heat control and holds up to 4.4 lbs. of coal.
Cons
- The metal is thin, which might affect the durability of the product.
- The bottom shelf can only hold up to 20 lb. accessories when they are evenly distributed, which might be a problem for some users.
- The paint coating on the inside of the grill might chip away after a few uses.
We used the Royal Gourmet CC1830S for a backyard barbecue party and were impressed by the ample space it provided for cooking and storing accessories. The front and side tables offered enough workspace for seasonings and grilling tools, while the bottom shelf provided extra storage space. We also appreciated the lid-mounted thermometer gauge that helped us monitor the cooking temperature with great confidence.
The offset smoker was easy to use, and the side door made it convenient to add charcoal and remove ashes. The adjustable pan allowed us to create better heat control, resulting in perfectly cooked meats and vegetables. We also enjoyed the tasty smoke flavors that the offset smoker added to our food.
Overall, we think the Royal Gourmet CC1830S is a great option for anyone looking for a versatile offset smoker that can also function as a charcoal grill. However, the thin metal and limited storage capacity might be a concern for some users.
3. Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker
Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker
If you’re looking for a versatile and efficient smoker that can handle all kinds of food, the Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker is a great option.
Pros
- The six height-adjustable cooking grates offer 1,890 square inches of total cooking space with 25-pounds capacity per grate, making it perfect for cooking large amounts of food at once.
- The porcelain-enameled steel charcoal chamber is designed to keep briquettes stacked tightly for improved burn efficiency, while the charcoal and ash management system with charcoal chamber, grate, and sliding, removable steel ash pan makes maintenance a breeze.
- The vertical design of the smoker lends itself to naturally rising heat, achieving greater efficiency and improved smoke flavor, while the offset design keeps direct heat away from the food, allowing for slow cooking.
Cons
- The smoker can be difficult to assemble and may require some modifications to work properly.
- The temperature control can be a bit finicky, and it may take some practice to get the hang of using it.
- The smoker is quite large and heavy, making it difficult to move around or store when not in use.
Overall, we think that the Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker is a great choice for anyone looking to take their grilling to the next level. With its versatile cooking options and efficient design, it’s sure to provide you with delicious, perfectly smoked food every time.
4. MGHH Charcoal Grill
MGHH Charcoal Grill
If you’re looking for a portable charcoal grill with an offset smoker, then MGHH’s Charcoal Grill might be a great option for you.
Pros
- Multiple barbecue modes to cook different types of food.
- Solid steel construction ensures durability and longevity.
- Temperature monitor helps you keep track of the temperature while cooking.
Cons
- Small grilling area, not suitable for large gatherings.
- Some customers reported missing parts or dented products upon delivery.
- Some customers reported difficulty maintaining high temperatures for smoking.
We recently used the MGHH Charcoal Grill for a small backyard barbecue with friends and family. The grill’s multiple barbecue modes allowed us to cook different types of food, including American braised roast, Chinese skewer roast, and interesting fried roast. The solid steel construction of the grill made it durable and easy to clean after use. We also appreciated the temperature monitor, which helped us keep track of the temperature while cooking.
However, the small grilling area of the MGHH Charcoal Grill might not be suitable for large gatherings. Some customers reported missing parts or dented products upon delivery, which could be a cause for concern. Additionally, some customers reported difficulty maintaining high temperatures for smoking, which could be a drawback for those looking to use the offset smoker feature of the grill.
Overall, we think the MGHH Charcoal Grill is a good option for those looking for a portable charcoal grill with an offset smoker. However, it might not be the best option for larger gatherings or those looking to maintain high temperatures for smoking.
5. Char-Broil Offset Smoker
Char-Broil Offset Smoker
If you’re looking for an affordable offset smoker that gets the job done, the Char-Broil Offset Smoker is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The combination offset smoker, BBQ and charcoal grill is perfect for cooking low and slow or hot and fast
- The adjustable height steel fire grate makes it easy to control the heat
- The clean-out door and adjustable built-in damper make ash removal a breeze
Cons
- The 290 square inch cooking surface in the main chamber may be too small for some users
- The 140 sq. in. cooking surface in the firebox chamber is also quite small
- The metal is thin, making it difficult to maintain a consistent temperature
We found that the Char-Broil Offset Smoker was easy to assemble and use. The cool touch handles and wheels made it easy to move around, and the porcelain-coated cooking grates were easy to clean.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Char-Broil Offset Smoker is quite small, so it may not be the best choice if you’re looking to cook for a large group of people. However, if you’re just starting out with smoking and want to try it out without breaking the bank, this is a great option.
Overall, we would recommend the Char-Broil Offset Smoker to anyone looking for an affordable, easy-to-use offset smoker.
6. Royal Gourmet CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker, Black
Royal Gourmet CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker, Black
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly offset smoker that can offer great performance, then the Royal Gourmet CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker might be the right fit for you.
Pros
- Ample cooking space
- Great performance
- Heat control system
Cons
- Difficult to remove ashes
- Metal is thinner than expected
- Tray for charcoal doesn’t fit opening
The ample cooking space of the Royal Gourmet CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker is one of its best features. With a total of 823 sq. in. cooking surface, including 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 191 sq. in. chrome-plated warming rack, and 189 sq. in. offset smoker, you’ll have enough space to cook for a large group of people.
This charcoal grill delivers excellent performance, thanks to its firm combination of offset smoker. You can experience grilled and smoked meat at the same time with no hassle. Plus, the 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan creates better heat control, and the cooking chamber maintains internal temperature and prevents air loss.
However, the Royal Gourmet CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker has some drawbacks. It is difficult to completely remove ashes from the firebox, and the metal is thinner than expected. Additionally, the tray for charcoal doesn’t fit opening, making it difficult to slide out to clean ashes without tilting and losing the charcoal.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly offset smoker that can offer ample cooking space, great performance, and heat control system, then the Royal Gourmet CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker might be a good choice for you.
7. Sophia & William Heavy-Duty Charcoal Smoker Grills
Sophia & William Heavy-Duty Charcoal Smoker Grills
If you’re looking for an affordable offset smoker that can serve a large party, Sophia & William Heavy-Duty Charcoal Smoker Grills is a great option.
Pros
- The total cooking area of 941 square inches, including 551 sq. in. cooking grates, 198 sq. in. warming rack, and 192 sq. in. offset smoker, is perfect for large parties or events of 10-15 people.
- The one-piece smoker chamber ensures that nothing is sealed, and you can control the smoker and temperature.
- The heavy-duty steel built ensures supreme durability than other thin material on the market, and large 10″ heavy-duty steel wheels make the smoker grill stable enough.
Cons
- The assembly time is long, and the instructions are not sequential.
- The thermometer is clouded up with moisture, making it hard to read.
- The overall quality is average.
We recently used Sophia & William Heavy-Duty Charcoal Smoker Grills for a large family gathering, and it performed well. The standing temperature gauge indicated temperature changes instantly, and the adjustable dampers on the side firebox enhanced airflow maximally for efficient burning and temperature control. The smoke stack with an adjustable cap provided additional airflow, and the warming tray and push-out ash tray added more convenience. The integrated S hooks and large bottom shelf kept our multiple grill accessories within arms’ reach.
Overall, if you’re on a budget and looking for a smoker that can serve a large party, Sophia & William Heavy-Duty Charcoal Smoker Grills is a great option. It has its drawbacks, but it gets the job done.
8. Royal Gourmet CC2036F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker Burch BBQ Barrel Grill and Smoker Combo
Royal Gourmet CC2036F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker Burch BBQ Barrel Grill and Smoker Combo
If you’re looking for a reliable and spacious offset smoker, the Royal Gourmet CC2036F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker Burch BBQ Barrel Grill and Smoker Combo is a great option.
Pros
- The 668 sq. in. cooking grates, 260 sq. in. warming rack, and 272 sq. in. offset smoker provide plenty of cooking space for large gatherings.
- The adjustable charcoal pan allows for better heat control and energy efficiency.
- The side charcoal door makes it easy to tend to the charcoal without removing the entire grates.
Cons
- The grill may start to rust after extended use.
- The front table is not sturdy enough to hold heavy items.
- The coal tray may start to bend after a few uses.
We recently had the opportunity to use the Royal Gourmet CC2036F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker Burch BBQ Barrel Grill and Smoker Combo and were impressed with its performance. The cooking grates were spacious enough to cook for 8-10 people and the warming rack was a nice touch for keeping food warm while finishing up other dishes.
One of the standout features of this grill is the offset smoker, which is firmly attached to the main body for good circulation of heat and smoke. The smoker also provides additional grilling or smoking cooking space for small side dishes.
The adjustable charcoal pan is another great feature that allows for better heat control and energy efficiency. It can hold up to 3.5kg/7.7 lb. of coal which is enough for large events. The side charcoal door is also a nice touch, making it easy to tend to the charcoal without removing the entire grates.
However, there are a few downsides to this grill. After extended use, the grill may start to rust, so it’s important to take good care of it. The front table is not sturdy enough to hold heavy items, so it’s best to use it for lighter items only. Additionally, the coal tray may start to bend after a few uses, which can be frustrating.
Overall, we would recommend the Royal Gourmet CC2036F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker Burch BBQ Barrel Grill and Smoker Combo for those looking for a reliable and spacious offset smoker. Just make sure to take good care of it to avoid any rusting issues.
9. Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill
Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill
If you are looking for a multifunctional smoker with both grilling and offset smoking capacity, the Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill is the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The smoker and offset cooking grates allow for maximum heat transfer and searing.
- The professional-grade, stainless steel temperature gauge features “Grill Zone” and “Smoke Zone” indicators for maintaining an ideal cooking temperature.
- The cool-touch spring lid grip provides safer access to food.
Cons
- The temperature gauge is not always accurate.
- The assembly process can be time-consuming.
- The smoker can leak smoke and heat.
We have used the Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill and we can say that it is a great investment for anyone who loves to grill and smoke their food. The smoker features five chrome-plated cooking grates and a total cooking space of 1382 square inches, which is more than enough for a large family or a group of friends.
The heavy-gauge steel body construction ensures that the smoker is durable and long-lasting. The temperature gauge features a smoke zone which indicates the ideal temperatures for infusing the perfect amount for smoking flavor. Also, the cool to touch handles, allow you to access fuel and food safely.
The oversized steel wheels make it easy to move the smoker around before and after use. However, the assembly process can be time-consuming, and the smoker can leak smoke and heat. The temperature gauge is not always accurate, so you may need to use a separate thermometer to ensure that your food is cooked to perfection.
Overall, the Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Heavy-Duty Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill is a great investment for anyone who loves to grill and smoke their food. It is versatile, durable, and easy to use. If you are looking for a smoker that can handle all of your grilling and smoking needs, this is the perfect choice for you.
10. Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover
Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly offset smoker that can cook up a storm, the Royal Gourmet CC1830SC is a solid choice.
Pros
- The 811 square inches of cooking space provides ample room for smoking and grilling.
- The adjustable charcoal pan allows for better heat control and can hold up to 4.4 lbs of coal.
- The lid-mounted thermometer gauge makes it easy to monitor the cooking temperature.
Cons
- The wire shelf on the grill is not very sturdy and may not hold meat without sliding forward.
- The assembly instructions can be a bit confusing, and it may take a few tries to get it right.
- The paint on the grill may start to peel after a few uses.
We recently had the chance to try out the Royal Gourmet CC1830SC, and we were impressed with its performance. The offset smoker is firmly attached to the grill, ensuring good circulation of heat and smoke. We were able to achieve tasty smoke flavors without much effort.
The side door makes it easy to add charcoal and remove ashes, and the air vent stokes the fire instantly. The two-level height-adjustable charcoal pan allowed us to create better heat control, and we were able to cook with great confidence thanks to the lid-mounted thermometer gauge.
The front and side tables were handy for holding seasonings and grilling tools, and the bottom shelf provided extra storage space. The cover is also a great addition, keeping the grill protected from the elements when not in use.
Overall, the Royal Gourmet CC1830SC is a great value for the price. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it gets the job done and produces delicious smoked meats.
11. Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Offset Smoker
Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Offset Smoker
If you’re looking for a high-capacity offset smoker, the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Offset Smoker is a great choice.
Pros
- The optional smokestack locations and removable baffles allow for versatility in cooking options.
- The heavy-gauge steel construction ensures durability.
- The large charcoal basket provides an efficient burn and easy clean-up.
Cons
- The lids don’t create a perfect seal, so high-temp gaskets may need to be added.
- The paint on the wood/fire box may bubble and peel.
- The glass on the temperature gauge may arrive cracked.
We recently used the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Offset Smoker for a family barbecue and were impressed with its performance. The large-capacity smoker allowed us to cook plenty of food for a crowd, and the option to choose between reverse flow smoking and traditional offset smoking was a nice touch. The professional temperature gauge was accurate and made monitoring the cooking process easy.
The bottom shelf was a convenient feature, allowing us to keep cooking utensils and additional fuel close-by. The cool-touch handles also provided added safety when checking on the food. The wagon-style wheels made it easy to move the smoker around, which was a plus.
While the lids didn’t create a perfect seal, we found that adding high-temp gaskets solved the issue. We also noticed that the paint on the wood/fire box began to bubble and peel after the first use, but this was only a cosmetic issue. The glass on the temperature gauge arrived cracked, but the team at Oklahoma Joe’s promptly addressed the issue and apologized for the inconvenience.
Overall, we would recommend the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Offset Smoker for those in the market for a high-capacity smoker with versatile cooking options.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best offset smoker can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to smoking. There are several factors to consider before making a purchase. In this section, we will provide you with a guide on how to choose the best offset smoker for your needs.
Size
The first thing you should consider when choosing an offset smoker is the size. Offset smokers come in different sizes, and it is essential to choose one that fits your needs. If you plan to smoke for a large group of people, you should consider a larger smoker. However, if you only plan to smoke for your family or a small group of friends, a smaller smoker will suffice.
Material
The material of the smoker is also an essential factor to consider. Most offset smokers are made of either steel or cast iron. Steel smokers are more affordable and lightweight, but they do not retain heat as well as cast iron smokers. Cast iron smokers are more expensive, but they retain heat better and are more durable.
Heat Distribution
Another essential factor to consider when choosing an offset smoker is heat distribution. The best offset smokers distribute heat evenly throughout the cooking chamber. This ensures that your food is cooked evenly and does not burn on one side. Look for an offset smoker with a thick metal construction and a good seal to ensure that heat is distributed evenly.
Features
Finally, you should consider the features that come with the offset smoker. Some smokers come with additional features such as a built-in thermometer, ash pan, and warming rack. These features can make smoking easier and more convenient. However, keep in mind that additional features can add to the cost of the smoker.
In summary, when choosing the best offset smoker, you should consider the size, material, heat distribution, and features. By considering these factors, you can find an offset smoker that fits your needs and helps you achieve delicious smoked meats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best offset smokers under $1000?
When it comes to offset smokers under $1000, some great options include the Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker, the Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Offset Smoker, and the Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker. These models offer a good balance of affordability and quality construction.
What are the advantages of using a reverse flow offset smoker?
A reverse flow offset smoker offers several advantages over a traditional offset smoker. The reverse flow design helps to distribute heat and smoke more evenly throughout the cooking chamber, resulting in more consistent temperatures and better flavor. Additionally, the reverse flow design helps to prevent hot spots and reduces the risk of flare-ups.
What are some features to look for in a custom offset smoker?
If you’re looking for a custom offset smoker, there are several key features to consider. Look for a smoker with thick steel construction to help retain heat and ensure durability. Additionally, consider the size of the cooking chamber and the number of cooking grates. Other features to look for include adjustable dampers for temperature control, a built-in thermometer, and a removable ash pan for easy cleanup.
What are some of the best wood smokers on the market?
Some of the best wood smokers on the market include the Traeger Pro Series 780 Pellet Grill, the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker, and the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill. These models offer excellent temperature control and versatility, allowing you to smoke a variety of meats and other foods.
What sets the Lang Offset smoker apart from other offset smokers?
The Lang Offset smoker is known for its high-quality construction and excellent performance. Unlike many other offset smokers, the Lang features a reverse flow design that helps to distribute heat and smoke more evenly throughout the cooking chamber. Additionally, the Lang is constructed from thick steel and features a removable ash pan for easy cleanup.
What are some factors to consider when choosing the best smoker for your needs?
When choosing the best smoker for your needs, consider factors such as size, construction quality, temperature control, and ease of use. Additionally, consider the type of fuel you prefer to use (such as charcoal, wood pellets, or propane) and the amount of cooking space you need. Ultimately, the best smoker for you will depend on your individual preferences and cooking needs.