Vertical Vs Horizontal Smoker. Which One to Choose?

Are you looking for your first smoker?

Then, you might realize that there is more than one type of smoker that you can purchase. You can choose between the vertical and the horizontal smoker.

But, in order for you to choose the right smoker, you need to make sure that you are aware of the differences and the features between the vertical and horizontal smoker.

With this guide, you will be able to know the difference so that you can purchase the best possible one for your needs.

Vertical Smoker

Many people are starting off with vertical smokers. This is the easiest smoker to use. Just like with the grills, you can purchase a charcoal smoker, gas smoker, or electric smoker.

However, with all three of these, you need to have smoking chips for getting your smoker to smoke.

These vertical smokers are small and compact. Can fit on any size patio. Making this great for apartments and small homes. Because this is smaller smokers, it is great for small to medium families.

A vertical smoker consists out of three parts.

The bottom part is where the heat source is. This can be the electric element, the gas element, or charcoal.

The second part is where you are adding the smoking chips that are going to make the smoker smoke.

The third part is where you have the water pan.

The top part is where you are putting your meat. It is placed on grill racks so that the meat can get smoked all over.

Pros of Having the Vertical Smoker

• It is more energy-efficient than horizontal smokers
• The vertical smoker is small and can fit onto any size patio
• It is easy to use and recommended for first-time smokers
• Known as one of the cheapest smokers you can purchase

Cons of Having the Vertical Smoker

• Small smoker, so you can only smoke a small amount at a time
• Need to be cleaned every time
• Not recommended for experienced smokers

Horizontal Smoker

The horizontal smoker is also known as the offset smoker and has a simple design. It is much larger than the vertical smoker and consists of two parts.

The first part is the heat source. Again, this can be gas, electric, or charcoal. The second part is where you are placing the smoke chips on. Then, on the cooking part, you are adding the meat.

It isn’t as easy to use as the vertical smoker, however, by following the instruction guide, you will find that it is easier than you might have thought.

It is much more expensive than the vertical smoker, but with great care, it can last for years.

Especially, if you are purchasing a high-quality smoker. You also need to have a larger available space to put the smoker, because of its size.

Pros of the Horizontal Smoker

• The horizontal smoker comes in all sizes and shapes
• It can smoke a lot more food at a time
• These horizontal smokers hold heat easily and you won’t need to worry about losing heat fast
• It isn’t hard to find an affordable horizontal smoker

Cons of the Horizontal Smoker

• These smokers can be too expensive for most
• It is really harder to smoke food successfully
• It is a really large smoker, and not everyone has the space for it
• You need to keep an eye on the heat source. Especially when you are using the charcoal smoker.

Tips for Choosing the Best One for You

Now, that you know what the difference between a vertical and horizontal smoker is, you might be wondering how you can choose the right one for you.

With these tips, you will find it a lot easier to decide if you are looking for a vertical smoker or a horizontal smoker.

How experienced are you with smoking food?

If you have smoked food before, then you can consider the horizontal smoker. However, if you never have smoked food before, the vertical smoker is better for beginners.

You should also consider the size of the food that you want to smoke.

If you are looking for a smoker that is small and smoking a small amount of food, then the vertical smoker is better. For larger families and larger quantities of meat, the horizontal smoker is more advisable.

Conclusion

What is the difference between a vertical and horizontal smoker? And, does it really matter what type of smoker you are going to purchase?

With this guide, you will now be able to understand the difference, and you will know which one will be better for you.

Most people prefer vertical smokers, because of the size and the easiness to use.

However, at the end of the day, it is your decision, and you should consider everything before you can decide which one you should choose.