A Primer on Smokers: A Beginner’s Guide to Smokers

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.

Leviticus 1:9 says, “And he shall wash the inwards and the legs with water: and the priest shall bring it all, and burn it upon the altar: it is a burnt sacrifice, an offering made by fire, of a sweet savor unto the Lord.” This verse describes the process of offering a burnt sacrifice to the Lord, and how it is considered a sweet and pleasing aroma to Him.

For centuries, people have used smoking as a traditional way to cook meat. However, in recent times, it has gained more popularity. Choosing a BBQ smoker is essential for achieving optimal results when smoking. 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.

 

Here Are 7 Different Types of Smokers

Charcoal Smokers
Electric Smokers
Gas Smokers
Pellet Smokers
Wood Smokers
Offset Smokers
Vertical Smokers

 

Charcoal Smokers

 

1. Fuel source: Charcoal grill smokers use charcoal as the fuel source. When I first started, I mixed wood chunks with charcoal. Charcoal is made by heating wood in the absence of oxygen until it becomes charred, and it burns slowly and steadily.  
2. Temperature control: Temperature control is important when using a charcoal smoker. Charcoal smokers require more effort to maintain a consistent temperature than other 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Price: Charcoal smokers range in price 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 are a popular choice for their authentic smoky flavor. They require more effort to maintain temperature compared to other types of smokers, but they offer a traditional smoking 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

 

1. Fuel source: Electric smokers use electricity as the fuel source. They typically come with a heating element that heats wood chips or pellets to produce smoke.  Don’t forget to purchase a long extension cord.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Versatility: Electric smokers are versatile and can be used to smoke various types of meat such as brisket, chicken, and pork. They are also great for smoking fish, vegetables, and even cheese.
6. 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 Smokers

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.

1. Fuel source: Gas smokers use propane or natural gas as a fuel source. They come with a burner that heats up wood chips or pellets to produce smoke.
2. 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.
3. Capacity: Gas smokers come in various sizes, ranging from small tabletop models to larger-capacity smokers that can smoke several racks of meat at once.
4. 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.
5. Versatility: Gas smokers are versatile and can be used to smoke various meats such as brisket, chicken, and pork. They are also great for smoking fish, vegetables, and even cheese.
6. 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. They are perfect for beginners who want to get started with smoking meat without the hassle of maintaining temperature manually. When selecting a gas smoker, consider the size, durability, and additional features that fit your needs and budget.

Pellet Smokers

Pellet smokers use 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.

1. 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.
2. Temperature control: Temperature control is easy with a pellet smoker. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Versatility: Pellet smokers are versatile and can be used to smoke various meats such as brisket, chicken, and pork. They are also great for smoking fish, vegetables, and even pizza.
6. 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.

Wood Smokers

Wood smokers are popular among barbecue purists who want an authentic and traditional smoky flavor. They are rated based on the type of wood used, the size of the cooking chamber, and the ease of temperature control.

1. Fuel source: Wood smokers use wood logs or chunks as the fuel source. You can choose from different types of wood such as hickory, mesquite, and applewood to add a unique flavor to your meat.
2. Temperature control: Temperature control is more difficult with a wood smoker compared to other types of smokers. You need to manually adjust the airflow and add wood to maintain the desired temperature.
3. Capacity: Wood smokers come in various sizes, ranging from small tabletop models to larger-capacity smokers that can smoke several racks of meat at once.
4. Durability: Wood smokers are typically made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel or cast iron and are built to last. They require more maintenance than other types of smokers, and you need to clean them regularly to prevent rust and corrosion.
5. Versatility: Wood smokers are versatile and can be used to smoke various meats such as brisket, chicken, and pork. They are also great for smoking fish, vegetables, and even cheese.
6. Price: Wood smokers range in price from around $200 for a basic model to over $1,000 for a high-end model with advanced features such as digital controls and multiple cooking zones.

Wood smokers offer a unique smoky flavor that other types of smokers can’t replicate. They require more skill and attention to maintain the desired temperature, but they offer a more authentic smoking experience. When selecting a wood smoker, consider the size, durability, and additional features that fit your needs and budget. Additionally, factor in the cost of purchasing wood logs or chunks as they can be more expensive than other fuel sources.

Offset Smokers

Offset 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.

1. Fuel source: Offset smokers use wood logs, wood chunks or charcoal as the fuel source. You can choose from different types of wood such as hickory, mesquite, and applewood to add a unique flavor to your meat.
2. Temperature control: Temperature control can be more difficult with an offset smoker compared to other types of 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.
3. Capacity: Offset smokers come in various sizes, ranging from small tabletop models to larger-capacity smokers that can smoke several racks of meat at once.
4. Durability: Offset smokers are typically made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel or cast iron and are built to last. They require more maintenance than other types of smokers, and you need to clean them regularly to prevent rust and corrosion.
5. Versatility: Offset smokers are versatile and can be used to smoke various types of meat such as brisket, chicken, and pork. They are also great for smoking fish, vegetables, and even pizza.
6. Price: Offset smokers range in price from around $200 for a basic model to over $1,000 for a high-end model with advanced features such as digital controls and multiple cooking zones.

Offset smokers offer a traditional smoking experience that many pitmasters prefer. They require more skill and attention to maintain the desired temperature, 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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Versatility: Vertical smokers are versatile and can be used to smoke various types of meat such as brisket, chicken, and pork. They are also great for smoking fish, vegetables, and even cheese.
6. 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. When selecting a smoker, consider the 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.