Vertical smokers are increasingly popular additions for backyard chefs looking to make competition-worthy barbecue. The vertical design provides key advantages over traditional offset smokers. However, not all vertical smokers are created equal. Use these tips to choose the best vertical smoker for your needs.
Look for Thick Metal Construction
The ideal vertical smoker has a rugged construction using thick, high-quality metals like steel or aluminum. Thinner metals can warp from the heat leading to airflow and temperature control issues. Thick metal absorbs and radiates heat evenly leading to better performance. It also stands up better over time.
Look for at least 1/4 inch steel or aluminum. Avoid thin stainless steel models under 0.5mm thick. The extra durability of a thick metal smoker is worth the small additional investment.
Verify Good Insulation
Proper insulation helps a vertical smoker hold heat and smoke consistently during long low and slow barbecue cooks. High-density insulation materials like fiberglass wool work best.
The insulation should fully surround the cook chamber. Avoid models with thin, subpar insulation only on certain areas. Inconsistent insulation leads to heat and smoke leakage.
Choose an Adequate Cooking Area
Consider how much food you normally cook when choosing the size of your vertical smoker. Common sizes range from 300 square inches up to 1000 square inches or more of cooking surface.
A good starter size smoker for most households has around 550 square inches which can smoke up to 8 racks of ribs simultaneously. Go bigger if you frequently cook for large gatherings. Just keep in mind the larger the cooking capacity, the larger space required.
Review Available Features and Accessories
Basic vertical smoker models have minimal features beyond the cooking chamber. Higher end models include useful extras like built-in temperature gauges, additional damper valves for further airflow control, upper and lower racks, tool hooks, and more.
Some brands also offer useful accessories and upgrades you can add like rib racks, sausage hangers, specialty wood chip boxes, and Bluetooth temperature controllers. Think about which features may be valuable for your needs.
Don’t Overlook Build Quality
Check out the overall build quality in addition to the materials used. High quality vertical custom smokers have tightly sealed doors and welded construction. All the parts fit together snugly.
Cheap models sometimes have loose doors, thin welding, and visible gaps. This negatively impacts temperature regulation. Prioritize quality construction for the best performance.
Choose Gas, Charcoal, or Electric
Vertical smokers are available in gas, charcoal, or electric models. Charcoal and wood chunks provide the most authentic smoke flavor. Gas makes maintaining consistent heat easier. Electric models require access to an outlet but provide convenient temperature controls.
Consider your fuel preference along with desired flavor when deciding between the different heating options. You want the fuel source best suited to your needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right vertical smoker for authentic barbecue requires a bit of forethought. Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be able to select the perfect model to take your backyard cooking skills to new heights. Investing in a high-quality vertical smoker is a great way to make incredible smoked meats with minimal effort.
