The Best Offset Smokers of 2023

Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Reverse Flow Smoker

At the top of our list is the all-rounder Highland Reverse Flow Smoker from Oklahoma Joe’s. This heavy-gauge steel unit is an excellent mix of quality, features, and price.

This Oklahoma Joe’s unit is our top pick because it allows you to choose between reverse flow smoking and traditional offset smoking. 

It also offers 900 square inches of cooking space divided between the main chamber and the firebox. And the 4-baffle ventilation system in this model gives you easy smoke and heat control.

Other great features include a sizeable stainless steel fuel basket and clean-out door for easy ash removal. 

If you’re looking for a quality offset smoker that is easy to use, get the Oklahoma Joe’s Highland now!

---

Which is better, offset or reverse flow smoker?

Regular offset smokers draw heat and smoke from the firebox over the meat on its way out of the chimney.

But in reverse flow offset smokers, the baffle system essentially uses the heat and smoke twice. It draws heat and smoke under the cooking chamber before pulling it back over the meat on its way out of a chimney.

While many enthusiasts claim that reverse flow smokers produce more tender and flavourful meats, others beg to differ. 

You can learn more about the differences between the two smoker types here.

How to choose the best offset smoker?

Choosing the best offset smoker for yourself depends mostly on your skill, preferred cooking method, and the foods you want to cook.

However, here are a few key features you need to look at before you buy an offset smoker:

• Select a model that has plenty of cooking space. And do make sure the firebox is large enough to fit the type of fuel you’re using.
• Ensure that the model you’re looking at is built with heavy gauge metal. By and large, ¼ inch is considered the gold standard as it is less likely to warp and least affected by weather conditions.
• Good quality seals are vital for temperature control, smoke retention and reducing fuel usage. Be sure to inspect the seals for gaps.
• Look for a model that allows you to measure the internal temperature without having to open the lid. And remember, the more accurate the temperature reading, the better the results. 
• Do a check on the unit’s sturdiness—inspect the welds, legs and wheels and the hinges and latches as well.
• Get a warranty. Most high-end units come with a lifetime warranty when it comes to potential manufacturer faults.

Best fuels to use in offset smokers

Most seasoned pitmasters will agree that charcoal and wood are the best fuels for cooking in an offset smoker.

While most offset smoker models are charcoal and wood-powered, liquid propane models are also available.

Propane-powered offset smokers give you the advantage of controlling how much gas gets burned, which means you have more direct control over temperature. However, you don’t get the classic crisp, smoky flavor expected from a smoker. That is why most manufacturers offer an additional option to burn wood.

For the full-on traditional taste, charcoal and wood-fired smokers are your safest best. It may provide unstable heat at first, but once you get the hang of it, the smoky flavor will always be there. 

There is no definite answer on which fuel type is the best for offset smokers. It all boils down to what you prefer.

If you don’t want to deal with a lot of coal dirt, choose liquid propane. And if you prefer more robust flavors with more smoke, pick charcoal or wood.

No matter what fuel you choose, here’s a video to help you make the best use of your smoker.