If you love smoked meats, you do not have to buy the expensive ones that are commercially available! Instead, with a bit of time and patience, you can make them on your own. You just need to invest in the best backyard smoker, including those that will be mentioned below. It will instantly turn you into a pro!
Here are the Best Backyard Smoker on the Market for 2018
With plenty of options for a backyard smoker, here are some of the products that should be on the radar, as well as some of their notable features.
1. Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS1382VCS-D Vertical Offset Smoker and Grill
This is a multifunctional smoker that also doubles as an impressive grill. This is for those who are looking for a large option as it offers a total of 1,382 square inches of cooking space and 284 square inches of a grilling area.
In terms of durability, this won’t disappoint. It is made of heavy-duty gauge stainless steel, which is quite heavy but long-lasting. Some users, however, noted that the quality of the coating could have been better. Meanwhile, the cooking grates are chrome-plated.
If you want an advanced smoker with fancy features, this is not for you. It is for those who prefer simplicity. It does not have digital controls or innovative electronic functions. All of the controls are analog. This is also the reason why the price is quite affordable when compared to the more advanced counterparts.
Like most of the smokers at its size, it also has a wheeled construction, making it easy to transfer it from one place to another. This is especially important considering the fact that it is made of heavy materials.
Pros:
- Generous smoking and grilling area
- High-quality construction
- Works as a grill and a smoker
Cons:
- Does not come with digital controls
- Steel coating can easily come off
2. Char-Broil 30-inch Offset Smoker
If the budget is an important concern, this is a product that should be on your radar. Despite being economical, it has a wealth of exceptional features. One thing that makes this notable is the three-piece smoking chamber. This is an innovative feature that aids in the elimination of air loss. It also ensures that the right temperature is maintained throughout smoking.
As for the size, it has 605 square inches of cooking area. There is a main compartment, as well as a cooking area on the side.
Another exceptional feature is the temperature gauge that is mounted on the top of the lid. This smart design eliminates the need to open the cover just to check the temperature of whatever it is being smoked. Aside from this, there is also a small cover at the top of the smoke chamber, which will help in controlling the temperature.
The cooking grates are coated with porcelain, which is also rust-resistant. Cleaning the grate right after every use will also be effortless.
The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty for this smoker.
Lastly, there are two eight-inch wheels on the side for ease of mobility.
Pros:
- Complete with all parts needed to assemble
- Affordable
- Decent size
Cons:
- Paint can easily peel
- Installation is tricky
3. Char-Griller 2-2424 Tabletop Charcoal Grill
The dual functionality of this product has captivated the attention of many buyers. Aside from being a horizontal Texas-style smoker, it also doubles as a tabletop grill. It has a total of 250-square inches of primary cooking space.
You can be confident that it will remain in its tip-top shape even after years of use. This can be attributed to its solid construction. The grill is made of cast iron. The body, on the other hand, is made of heavy-duty steel. It also comes with sturdy legs, although it would have been better if they can be folded to make the unit more portable.
To be able to control the heat, there are two adjustable dampers, providing the complete freedom to customize the temperature. Many users, however, have noted that they would have loved it more if there are additional dampers.
Cleaning and maintaining this backyard smoker will not require too much effort on your end. There is a strategically-located pan that collects ash from the grill.
Pros:
- Can be used as a grill or smoker
- Portable construction
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Limited dampers
- Legs do not bend
4. Best Choice Products BBQ Charcoal Grill
This is another option that is easy on the wallet. Despite such, it is a versatile product. It can be used both as an offset smoker and a barrel grill. There are also metal grates that are included to make the surface more stable whether you are smoking or grilling.
One of the best features of this backyard smoker is the integrated firebox. The latter is useful for offsetting the heat, making it easy to come up with a mouthwatering smoky flavor. There are also vents on the side, allowing users to easily add coal. This also supplements the air circulation that is needed.
It is made of high-quality cast iron that makes it durable. The steel frame, on the other hand, can resist rusting. This is important since a backyard smoker is often exposed to water and other external elements that will make it prone to rust.
On the lid, there is a built-in temperature. This allows users to easily monitor the temperature without having to open the lid.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Lightweight and portable
- Quick to assemble
Cons:
- Cover does not sit well
- Can have durability issues
5. Giantex Outdoor Charcoal BBQ Grill
Do not let the simplicity of this backyard smoker fool you. Despite the straightforward look, it offers exceptional functionality. Right out of the box, the assembly does not require a lot of time and effort.
Some smokers generate too much smoke. This product is not one of those. It has a special design that allows it to produce minimal smoke without sacrificing the results. One of the reasons for this is the attached firebox, which also improves air circulation. This speeds up the process of smoking and grilling.
Similar to most of the backyard smokers you can find on the market, it already comes with a built-in thermometer for ease of monitoring the temperature. Since you won’t have to open the lid, the smoke will be trapped inside, which will result in a stronger flavor.
On the side, there are two smooth-rolling wheels, making it easy to have it moved from one location to another.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- Affordable
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Poor packaging
- Lid does not close tightly
Choosing the Best Backyard Smoker
Especially if you are buying a backyard smoker for the first time, you will most likely be overwhelmed with the options that are available. To help you narrow down the possibilities, here are some of the most important things you have to take into consideration:
Size: Pay attention to the size of the primary and secondary cooking surface. If you live in a small household, a small smoker will be more than enough.
Construction: See to it that the backyard smoker is made of strong materials that can withstand the test of time. Most top-rated options are made of a steel body and cast iron grates. The coating should not easily peel off.
Portability: Backyard smokers should be kept indoors when it is raining or during the winter. To make this easier, a product with a wheeled construction will be better, which will allow you to easily transfer it from one location to another.
Thermometer: Choose a smoker that comes with a built-in thermometer on the gauge. This prevents the need to have the lid frequently opened just to check the temperature.
Ease of Cleaning: Care and maintenance of the grill should be almost effortless on your end. An ash catcher will be great, especially if it is in a strategic position.
Warranty: Within the warranty period, the manufacturer can extend the necessary assistance in case of a defect or problems in workmanship. Depending on the terms and conditions specified, they can offer free repair or replacement of defective parts.
Different Types of Backyard Smokers
Aside from the things that have been mentioned above, you also have to think about the type of the backyard smoker that will be ideal for your needs and preferences. Here are some of the choices that you will be confronted with:
Vertical Water Smoker: This is the most popular and also the least expensive. The bottom part holds the source of the heat. Above it is the water pan, which is the one that will be regulating the heat. On the top of it is the smoking chamber.
Offset Smoker: Also called a horizontal smoker because of its design, it is also commonly used as a grill. The main part of this type is the firebox, which can be accessed either from the side or the top. There is a vent that can be customized to control the temperature.
Box Smoker: It is a common choice for those who are smoking for commercial purposes, basically because of its capacity. It looks like a small cabinet with removable metal grates.
Drum Smoker: If you have a steel drum, you can make this smoker a DIY project. It is easy to use, inexpensive, and portable.
Kamado Grill: It is a smoker, grill, and oven all in one product. They are powered by charcoal and is perfect for slow cooking.
Tips for Using a Backyard Smoker
Even if you use the best backyard smoker that is available on the market, take note of these tips to come up with mouthwatering smoked treats:
- One of the most important things that you should learn is patience. This entails the need to go low and slow. You should smoke in low heat and for an extended period, which will make it possible to achieve a smoky flavor.
- Do not forget to put a pan with water. Cooking or smoking for a long time can cause the meat to become dry. Water will add moisture or humidity to the smoker, which will also prevent dryness.
- Pay attention to the color of the smoke that comes out of the unit. If it is white, there is nothing to worry about. On the other hand, if it is black, it is bad. The grill can be dirty or there is not enough ventilation. This will negatively affect the flavor of the food.
- Do not open the lid of the smoker often. This could make the smoke escape and will result in weaker flavor. This is why you should choose a smoker with a built-in thermometer for ease of monitoring the temperature.
- Be careful with the additional flavors that you are using. The smoked flavor should stand out. Therefore, you need to avoid using thick sauces or marinades that are overpowering.
Wrap Up
The best backyard smoker will change the way you smoke at home! It will be easier to prepare delicious treats when you have the right tools, including the products that have been mentioned above. Even without being a trained chef, you can easily prepare smoked foods that are sure to make anyone drool.
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