Every time I smoke a piece of meat, I think about a verse in the Bible that talks about the sweet aroma of burnt offerings – I never understood that until I started smoking. Unlike a traditional gas grill, smokers make any protein the best piece of meat you have ever eaten in your life.
I have personally gone through about a dozen smokers and in this article, we will explore the different smokers and how you should evaluate each type based on the fuel source, temperature control, capacity, durability, versatility, and price so you won’t make the same mistakes I have.
Here Are 9 Different Types of Smokers
- Kettle-style Charcoal Grills or Smokers
- Electric Smokers
- Gas Grills
- Pellet Smokers
- Ceramic Cookers or Kamado Smokers
- Offset Smokers
- Vertical Smokers
- Handheld Smokers
- Gravity Smokers
Kettle-Style Charcoal Grills or Smokers
Charcoal smokers are popular for their authentic smoky flavor – traditional smokers, but they require more time and effort to maintain the temperature. These smokers can be rated based on the quality of the charcoal used, the size of the cooking chamber, and the ease of temperature control.
Fuel source: Charcoal grill smokers use charcoal as the fuel source. When I first started, I mixed wood chips or chunks with charcoal. Charcoal is made by heating wood in the absence of oxygen until it becomes charred, and it burns slowly and steadily. You’ll normally need to use a chimney starter into a basket for indirect grilling or smoking and directly over the fire for grilling.
Temperature control: Temperature control is important when using a charcoal smoker. Charcoal smokers require more effort to maintain a consistent temperature compared to other types of smokers. Temperature control can be achieved by adjusting the amount of charcoal used, adjusting the air intake, and using a water pan to regulate the temperature.
Capacity: Charcoal smokers come in different sizes, ranging from small tabletop models to large-capacity smokers that can smoke multiple racks of meat at once.
Durability: Charcoal smokers are typically made of heavy-duty steel and are built to last. However, the durability can vary based on the quality of the materials used.
Versatility: Charcoal smokers can be used to smoke a variety of meats, including ribs, brisket, chicken, and more. They can also be used for grilling by using the direct grilling method.
Price: Charcoal smokers are inexpensive with prices ranging from around $50 for a basic model to over $1,000 for a high-end model. The price depends on the size, quality of materials used, and additional features such as temperature gauges and multiple racks.
Charcoal smokers do have their drawbacks – because they are designed for grilling, it’s harder to maintain a consistent temperature. They require more effort to maintain temperature compared to other types of smokers, but they offer a traditional grilling experience that many people prefer. When selecting a charcoal smoker, consider the size, durability, and additional features that fit your needs and budget.
Electric Smokers
Electric smokers are the most convenient and easy to use. They are rated based on the temperature range, the size of the cooking chamber, and the ease of use. Some electric smokers have a digital control panel, making it easier to set the desired temperature.
Fuel source: Electric smokers use electricity as the fuel source. They typically come with a heating element that heats up wood chips or pellets to produce smoke. Don’t forget to purchase a long extension cord.
Temperature control: Temperature control is easy with an electric smoker. They have a thermostat that allows you to set and maintain the desired temperature. Some models even come with digital controls and remote monitoring features.
Capacity: Electric smokers come in various sizes, ranging from small countertop models to larger-capacity smokers that can smoke several racks of meat at once.
Durability: Electric smokers are typically made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel and are built to last. They are also relatively low maintenance and easy to clean.
Versatility: Electric smokers are versatile and can be used to smoke a variety of meats such as brisket, chicken, and pork. They are also great for smoking fish, vegetables, and even cheese.
Price: Electric smokers range in price from around $100 for a basic model to over $1,000 for a high-end model with advanced features such as digital controls and Bluetooth connectivity.
Electric smokers are easy to use and offer a convenient smoking experience. They are perfect for beginners who want to get started with smoking meat without the hassle of maintaining temperature manually. When selecting an electric smoker, consider the size, durability, and additional features that fit your needs and budget.
Gas Grills
Gas smokers are similar to electric smokers in terms of convenience, but they use propane as the fuel source. They are rated based on the temperature range, the size of the cooking chamber, and the ease of use. They can also be rated based on the quality of the propane tank used.
Fuel source: Gas smokers use propane or natural gas as fuel sources. If you want to smoke, you need to buy a smoke box.
Temperature control: Temperature control is easy with a gas smoker. They have a thermostat that allows you to set and maintain the desired temperature. Some models even come with digital controls and remote monitoring features.
Capacity: Gas smokers come in various sizes and shapes, ranging from small tabletop models to larger-capacity smokers that can smoke several racks of meat at once.
Durability: Gas smokers are typically made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel and are built to last. They are also relatively low maintenance and easy to clean.
Versatility: Gas smokers are versatile and can be used to smoke a variety of meats such as brisket, chicken, and pork. They are also great for smoking fish, vegetables, and even cheese.
Price: Gas smokers range in price from around $150 for a basic model to over $1,000 for a high-end model with advanced features such as digital controls and multiple burners.
Gas smokers are easy to use and offer a convenient smoking experience – but in my opinion, give the least amount of flavor because you’ll need a separate smoke box chamber in your gas grill. They are perfect for beginners who, to be honest, grill more often. When selecting a gas smoker, consider the size, durability, and additional features that fit your needs and budget.
Pellet Smokers
Pellet smokers one of the fastest growing segments for smoker uses compressed sawdust pellets as the fuel source, and they are known for producing a consistent and controlled smoke flavor. They are rated based on the quality of the pellets used, the size of the cooking chamber, and the ease of temperature control. They are mainly a set-it-and-forget-it because it contains a digital control and augur that feeds the fire pot, which means you’ll need a long power cord to power the smoker.
Fuel source: Pellet smokers use compressed sawdust pellets as the fuel source. These pellets are made of compressed sawdust and come in various flavors such as hickory, mesquite, and apple.
Temperature control: Temperature control is easy with a pellet smoker. Fewer flare-ups. They have a digital controller that allows you to set and maintain the desired temperature. Some models even come with Wi-Fi connectivity and smartphone apps for remote monitoring.
Capacity: Pellet smokers come in various sizes, ranging from small tabletop models to larger-capacity smokers that can smoke several racks of meat at once.
Durability: Pellet smokers are typically made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel and are built to last. They are also relatively low maintenance and easy to clean.
Versatility: Pellet smokers are versatile and can be used to smoke a variety of meats such as brisket, chicken, and pork. They are also great for smoking fish, vegetables, and even pizza.
Price: Pellet smokers range in price from around $300 for a basic model to over $2,000 for a high-end model with advanced features such as Wi-Fi connectivity and multiple cooking zones.
Pellet smokers are easy to use and offer a convenient smoking experience. They are perfect for beginners who want to get started with smoking meat without the hassle of maintaining temperature manually. When selecting a pellet smoker, consider the size, durability, and additional features that fit your needs and budget. Additionally, consider the cost of purchasing pellets as they can be more expensive than other fuel sources.
Ceramic Cookers or Kamado Smokers
Fuel source: Kamado smokers use charcoal as their fuel source. This allows for a smokier flavor in your food and can save on fuel costs compared to other types of smokers.
Temperature control: Kamado smokers are known for their excellent temperature control. The airflow system will allow you to go from a low smoke to a searing temperature for grilling in just a few minutes. The thick ceramic walls and tight-fitting lid allow for precise heat regulation, and many models come with a built-in thermometer to help monitor the temperature.
Capacity: Kamado smokers come in various sizes, ranging from about 100 to 450 sq inches of grilling surface, with larger capacity smokers that can smoke several racks of meat at once. They do have a smaller cooking area. The way it’s designed, it harder to reload your fuel, but because of its efficiency, you do not have to refuel as much as your traditional smokers.
Durability: Kamado smokers are typically made of high-quality materials such as ceramic, which makes them highly durable and long-lasting. They require little maintenance, and the ceramic material is resistant to rust and corrosion.
Versatility: Kamado smokers are versatile and can be used for smoking, grilling, roasting, and even baking. They can smoke a variety of meats such as brisket, chicken, and pork, as well as vegetables and pizza.
Price: Kamado smokers range in price from around $300 for a basic model to over $2,000 for a high-end model with advanced features such as digital controls and multiple cooking zones.
Overall, Kamado smokers are a great option for those who want an all-in-one cooking experience. They offer excellent temperature control and are versatile enough to smoke, grill, roast, and bake a variety of meats and other foods. When selecting a Kamado smoker, consider the size, durability, and additional features that fit your needs and budget. Additionally, factor in the cost of purchasing charcoal or other fuel sources, which may vary depending on your location.
Offset Smokers
My first real smoker was an offset smokers. These barrel smokers have a separate firebox where the wood or charcoal is burned, and the smoke and heat are drawn into the main chamber where the meat is placed. They are rated based on the size of the cooking chamber, the quality of the materials used, and the ease of temperature control. You’ll see plenty of these in Texas and Oklahoma.
Fuel source: Offset smokers use wood logs, wood chunks or charcoal as the primary fuel types. You can choose from different types of wood such as hickory, mesquite, and applewood to add a unique flavor to your meat.
Temperature control: Temperature control can be more difficult with an offset smoker than with other smokers. You need to manually adjust the airflow and add wood or charcoal as needed to maintain the desired temperature. Some models come with built-in thermometers to help you monitor the temperature.
Capacity: Offset smokers are usually wider than most smokers and cook a lot of food – these are usually very heavy. Definitely an upgrade from kettle-style grills. The main drum smoker contains is where you smoke your proteins and an offset smoker chamber that usually sits to the right.
Durability: Offset smokers are typically less durable than most and will probably rust over time if you don’t take care of the grill. They require more maintenance than other types of smokers, and you need to clean them regularly to prevent rust and corrosion.
Versatility: Offset smokers are versatile and can be used to smoke a variety of meats such as brisket, chicken, and pork. They are also great for smoking fish, vegetables, and even pizza.
Price: Offset smokers range in price from around $250 (relatively inexpensive) to $1000 for a basic model. Pay attention to the thickness of the metal, the thicker the metal, the better the heat rention and more even cooking.
Most BBQ pitmasters prefer the traditional offset smoking experience. They require more skill and attention to maintain the desired temperature because there is no electric fan, but they offer a more authentic smoking experience. When selecting an offset smoker, consider the size, durability, and additional features that fit your needs and budget. Additionally, factor in the cost of purchasing wood or charcoal as they can be more expensive than other fuel sources.
Vertical Smokers
Vertical smokers have a vertical design, with the heat source at the bottom and the meat racks stacked on top. They are rated based on the size of the cooking chamber, the ease of temperature control, and the overall build quality.
Fuel source: Vertical smokers can use a variety of fuel sources, including wood, charcoal, gas, or electricity. Some models even offer the option to use multiple fuel sources.
Temperature control: Temperature control is typically easier with vertical smokers compared to other types of smokers. Most models have built-in thermostats that allow you to set the desired temperature and monitor the heat level.
Capacity: Vertical smokers come in various sizes, ranging from small tabletop models to larger capacity smokers that can smoke several racks of meat at once.
Durability: Vertical smokers are typically made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel or cast iron and are built to last. They require less maintenance than other types of smokers, and you need to clean them regularly to prevent rust and corrosion.
Versatility: Vertical smokers are versatile and can be used to smoke a variety of meats such as brisket, chicken, and pork. They are also great for smoking fish, vegetables, and even cheese.
Price: Vertical smokers range in price from around $100 for a basic model to over $1,000 for a high-end model with advanced features such as digital controls and multiple cooking zones.
Vertical smokers are a great option for those who want an easy-to-use smoking experience. They offer excellent temperature control and are versatile enough to smoke a variety of meats and other foods. When selecting a vertical smoker, consider the size, durability, and additional features that fit your needs and budget. Additionally, factor in the cost of purchasing fuel, such as wood or charcoal, or the cost of electricity or gas if you choose an electric or gas model.
The best backyard smokers for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Buying a smoker can be a big investment. When selecting a smoker, consider the convenience, fuel source, temperature control, capacity, durability, versatility, and price. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a smoker that meets your needs and helps you achieve perfect smoked meats every time.
Handheld Smokers
Fuel source: Wood chips, wood pellets, and even dried herbs. Some models are designed to be used with a butane torch, while others rely on batteries or electricity. It is important to choose a handheld smoker with a fuel source that is readily available and easy to use.
Temperature control: Some models have adjustable temperature settings, allowing you to customize the amount of smoke and heat that is generated. Others rely on a simple on/off switch, providing limited control over the smoking process.
Capacity: The capacity of handheld smokers can vary greatly, with some models designed for small-scale smoking, while others can handle larger items. If you plan on smoking drinks, large cuts of meat or fish, it is important to choose a handheld smoker with a larger capacity to accommodate your needs.
Durability: The durability of a handheld smoker is an important consideration, particularly if you plan to use it frequently or for commercial purposes. Look for models that are made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or aluminum, and have a sturdy construction that can withstand frequent use.
Versatility: Some handheld smokers offer more versatility than others, allowing you to smoke a wide range of foods and cocktails. Look for models that come with a variety of attachments or accessories, such as smoking domes, to expand your smoking capabilities.
Price: Handheld smokers come in a range of prices, from budget-friendly models of about $25 to high-end options of about $100.
Handheld smokers are a versatile and convenient option for adding a smoky flavor to your favorite foods. When choosing a handheld smoker, consider the fuel source, temperature control, capacity, durability, versatility, and price to find the model that best fits your needs.
Gravity Smokers
Fuel source: Gravity smokers use either charcoal or wood chunks as their fuel source.
Temperature control: Gravity smokers have excellent temperature control due to their unique design. The fuel source is loaded into the hopper, which feeds into the smoker box via gravity. A fan or blower system is used to regulate the airflow and maintain a consistent temperature. The temperature can be easily adjusted by the user, with some models even offering Wi-Fi connectivity for remote temperature control.
Capacity: The capacity of gravity smokers are generally similar to those in the market to accommodate small-scale smoking, while some others can handle larger items.
Durability: Gravity smokers are built to last, with many models made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel. The hopper and smoker box are typically made from heavy-gauge steel or cast iron, which helps to retain heat and improve durability. Gravity smokers are low-maintenance and can withstand regular use.
Versatility: Gravity smokers are built to last, and made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel. The hopper and smoker box are typically made from heavy-gauge steel, which helps to retain heat and improve durability. Gravity smokers are low-maintenance and can withstand regular use.
Price: Gravity smokers vary in price, with smaller models starting at around $400 and larger models reaching close to $1,000. While they can be more expensive than other types of smokers, they offer excellent temperature control and efficiency, making them a worthwhile investment for serious pitmasters and BBQ enthusiasts.
I personally love gravity smokers because I love the combination of an off-chute charcoal loader without the need to remove the grate and get that nice charcoal flavor and the ease of a pellet grill with excellent temperature control, efficiency, and versatility.