Guide to the Best Offset Smokers Under $500

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Stepping into the world of outdoor cooking requires the right equipment, and if a smoky flavor is what you’re after, a good smoker is essential. Smoking meat is a culinary tradition that has spanned across continents, cultures, and centuries. Smoking meat is not just a method of cooking; it’s an art form that brings out intricate flavors and ensures mouthwatering tenderness. The market is flooded with different size smokers, types of smokers, and price points. For those keen on keeping things affordable without compromising on quality, let’s explore the best offset smokers under $500.

Top 5 Offset Smokers Under $500:

1. Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Reverse Flow Smoker
2. Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D Vertical Offset Smoker
3. Oklahoma Joe Highland Traditional Offset Smoker
4. Weber 18-inch Smokey Mountain Grill
5. Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker

1. Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Reverse Flow Smoker

Crafted with high-temperature painted steel, this model is more than a dedicated smoker. With 619 square inches of cooking space, it can transform into a large charcoal grill. The highlight is the reverse flow design, equipped with an extra baffle plate ensuring even heat and smoke distribution within the main cooking chamber.

Fuel source: Charcoal
Barbecue Material: Painted steel
Cooking Area: 619 sq. in. primary; 281 sq. in. secondary
Price range: $499-$649

Pros:

• Even distribution of heat and smoke.
• Versatile grill and smoker combo.
• High-quality build.

Cons:

• Potential smoke leakage; though can be addressed with a gasket kit.
• Paint might peel under high heat; remedied with special barbecue paint.

2. Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D Vertical Offset Smoker

A crowd-favorite for its affordability, this vertical smoker boasts 1,176 square inches of cooking surface. The vertical design promotes natural heat regulation, while the charcoal basket enhances fuel efficiency.

Fuel type: Charcoal or wood
Total cooking surface: 1,176 sq in
Price guide: $315-$425

Pros:

• Great value at an affordable price.
• Ample cooking space.
• Fuel efficiency with the charcoal basket.

Cons:

• Can’t double up as a grill.
• Cooking grates might not be super durable.

3. Oklahoma Joe Highland Traditional Offset Smoker

For those not keen on reverse flow, this model still brings quality to the table. Offering a large cooking area of 900 square inches, it’s perfect for both smoking and grilling over firebox coals. This is one of the best smokers under $500.

Fuel type: Charcoal or wood
Cooking Techniques: Smoking and grilling
Price point: $400-$450

Pros:

• Multiple cooking techniques possible.
• Sturdy construction.
• Excellent value

Cons:

• Some heat loss due to door gaps; can be fixed with a gasket kit.
• Paint issues under high temperatures; requires high-heat paint touch-ups.

4. Weber 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker

Renowned for its temperature control and ease of use, this model has a cooking space of 481 square inches. Its compact size is great for limited space, while the built-in thermometers make monitoring a breeze.

Fuel type: Charcoal
Cooking Area: 481 sq in
Price point: $400-$450

Pros:

• Unbeatable temperature control.
• User-friendly with built-in thermometers.
• Compact and easy storage.

Cons:

• Comparatively smaller cooking area.

5. Char-Broil American Gourmet Offset Smoker

A budget-friendly choice, the Longhorn offers decent performance. It stands out with its improved construction elements, side chimney, and a handy warming rack.

Fuel type: Charcoal or wood
Price range: $125-$150

Pros:

• Attractive price point.
• Improved design features for its price range.
• Beneficial side chimney design.

Cons:

• Potential need for performance tweaks.
• Not as long-lasting as premium models.

The Best Meats to Smoke

While almost any meat can be smoked, some cuts truly shine in the smoker. Here are a few standouts:

1. Brisket: This is the crown jewel in the smoking world, especially in Texas-style barbecue. It’s a tough cut with a lot of connective tissue, which when smoked, breaks down, rendering the meat juicy and tender. The fat cap on a brisket also melts over time, adding flavor and moisture.
2. Pork Butt (Pork Shoulder): When smoked, pork butt transforms into the ever-popular pulled pork. The marbling within this cut ensures the meat remains moist during the long smoking process.
3. Ribs: Whether you opt for pork or beef ribs, their natural fattiness ensures they remain moist. The bones also add flavor during the smoking process.
4. Salmon: Not just limited to meats, fish like salmon take exceptionally well to cold smoking, producing the popular “smoked salmon”. Its oily nature absorbs the smoky flavor while maintaining a delectable texture.
5. Chicken: While it’s leaner than other meats, chicken, especially with skin on, smoked to perfection, is a treat. The skin turns crispy, and the meat remains tender and flavorful.
6. Sausages: Different varieties, from Andouille to Kielbasa, smoke wonderfully. They absorb the smoky flavor and, when sliced, make for a perfect sandwich filler or standalone treat.
7. Turkey: A whole smoked turkey during the holidays is a treat many look forward to. The slow smoking process ensures every part, from breast to leg, is tender and juicy.