Reverse flow smokers are popular because they offer an efficient cooking process with minimal use of wood chips or pellets, and they often come with convenient features like built-in thermometers, side handles, and wheels. However, selecting the best reverse smoker can be quite challenging because there are so many options on the market.
When it comes to smoking meat, the reverse flow smoker is a highly reliable choice. It operates differently from most other types of pellet smokers. In this smoker, smoke and heat are drawn into the chamber from a wood firebox rather than being drawn down from above.
This type of smoker is great for beginners because it’s easy to use, affordable, and has plenty of features that make smoking meats quick and easy.
If you’re looking to buy a new smoker but don’t know where to start, this guide is perfect for you! But first read about what is a reverse flow smoker.
Best Reverse Flow Smokers 2024
We have reviewed the 7 best reverse flow smokers available on the market after analyzing lots of potential choices. You may select the one that is more appropriate for you.
Let’s have a look at the comparison table first.
| Image | Product | Feature | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Top Pick
 |
Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker
| 1060 sq inches total cooking area, Excellent distribution of heat, High-end construction | Check Price |
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Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Reverse Flow Smoker
| 900 sq inches cooking space, A blessing for beginners, Easy to assemble | Check Price |
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KBQ C-60 BBQ Smoker Pit
| Excellent heat shift process for a flavored meat, Temperature is maintained exceptionally well with AutoDraft technology. | Check Price |
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Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill
| Extensive cooking space of 1382 sq inches, Reliable temperature gauge, Original Smokehouse flavor | Check Price |
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Char-Griller E1224 Smoking Pro
| Suitable for a family with small grilling needs, Total cooking space of 830 sq inches, Removable charcoal drawer for easy access | Check Price |
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Landmann 560212 Charcoal Grill
| Bang for the buck, Cooking space of 734 sq inches, Height-adjustable charcoal pan for consistent supply of heat | Check Price |
 |
Royal Gourmet CC1830FC Charcoal Grill Smoker
| Compact design, Enhanced efficiency due to perforated charcoal pan, Cover included | Check Price |
1. Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker – Top Pick
The first on our list is a top-notch reverse flow smoker from Oklahoma that facilitates users in every aspect from exceptional build to a balanced price tag. With its exceptional 1060 sq inches cooking space, it meets the BBQ needs of a whole large family.
The presence of a set of 4 baffles ensures you get what you are looking for in the best reverse flow smokers. They help in the even distribution of heat and smoke throughout the grill for consistent flavor. Additionally, it also features an optional smokestack feature that lets you automatically convert between reverse and offset smoking abilities.
Generous Cooking Space
This smoker features a 1,060 total square inch cooking surface with 309 square inches in the firebox chamber and 751 square inches in the main chamber. There is also ample room to get the most out of the firebox side for continuous grilling on.
The Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker is the perfect outdoor kitchen for tailgating, picnics, and backyard BBQs. This smoker offers a reverse flow design that keeps smoke in your food instead of letting it escape. It also has separate smokestack locations, so you can prepare multiple dishes at once or cook different types of meat at different temperatures.
Reliable Distribution of Heat
The main chamber of Joe’s Longhorn from Oklahoma is guided through a series of four baffles, which evenly deliver heat and smoke. The wooden box has two doors for easy access to the firebox, which is located on the left side.
Inside, you will find four removable cooking grates that are designed with extra space between them so that when you add your favorite meat or veggies they do not touch each other. This allows for better air circulation as well as a more sophisticated taste and flavor.
High-Quality Charcoal Basket
The Longhorn smoker is the perfect centerpiece for your outdoor gatherings. With a large charcoal basket and an open-flame fire, you can roast hot dogs and marshmallows with ease. Longhorn’s double-walled construction allows for a more efficient burn, easier tending to the fire, and a quick clean-up.
Lid-mounted Temperature Gauge
The lid-mounted temperature gauge measures the temperature of your smoker from within the smoke chamber, so you don’t have to open the door and lose precious heat every time you want to check on your food. Additionally, its adjustable dampers let you control the amount of smoke entering your smoker and allow you to regulate heat.
In our opinion, this Joe Longhorn from Oklahoma is the overall best reverse flow smoker available on the market. Featuring a total cooking surface of 1,060 square inches, the main chamber has 751 square inches and the firebox has 309 square inches. it means you do not need any other grill to meet the BBQ needs of people at the weekend party. In addition, the presence of a series of 4 baffles and a high-end charcoal basket enhances its desirability.
Read Also: How to Use an Offset Smoker? (The Beginner’s Guide)
2. Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Reverse Flow Smoker – Runner Up
The second on the list is another high-end reverse flow smoker from Oklahoma. In terms of cooking space, it differs only marginally from its predecessor. You will notice a total cooking space of 900 sq inches, which is also sufficient to cater to the grilling needs of a whole family. On the other hand, it features the same set of four baffles and high-end steel construction as its predecessor.
The Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Reverse Flow Smoker is the best offset Smoker which delivers a smoking experience like a pro. Using four pull-out baffles, optional smokestacks, hot air, and radiant heat can be combined to provide even temperatures throughout the chamber. With a large charcoal basket for easier fuel management, the Highland Reverse Flow is built to perform. However, it requires little modifications, in the beginning, to work flawlessly.
Perfect for Beginners
If you are new to reverse flow grilling, this is something for you. Everything from its reliable working efficiency to ergonomic design facilitates its usage by newbies. As far as temperature regulation is concerned, the thermostat works exceptionally well to maintain the temperature well within the set range. Additionally, a highly reliable steel build ensures the machine sustains frequent usage for years without involving any working inefficiencies.
The heat plates on this device also help in the even distribution of heat and hot air throughout the chamber for consistent results. However, you may need to install some modifications for it to function properly after the assembly. To ensure a good heat hold, you may wish to introduce some door seals and door latches.
Easy Assembly
In terms of assembly, anyone can assemble with some basic know-how of how these types of grills work. Unlike many others on the market, you will not find any issues with seasoning. It just takes a few minutes to get the job done in this regard. When it comes to providing an excellent heat chamber for BBQ ribs, this highland reverse flow smoker from Oklahoma sets standards.
After assembly, you may search for the perfect wood type for this device. In our opinion, lump charcoal might be the best option to consider for a consistent supply of heat throughout the grill smoker. This wood type helps you precisely control the temperature throughout the smoking process. Moreover, it is also helpful in providing quality smoke for desirable results during smoking.
Constant Heat Supply
The overall design of the smoker enables the constant supply of heat throughout the chamber. As a result, everything from brisket to turkey cooks exceptionally well on this device. If you are looking for a device that facilitates grilling briskets, Joe’s Highland from Oklahoma might be a perfect choice out there for you.
One thing that undoubtedly spoils the taste of many BBQ dishes is the direct heat that comes from the fire source. However, that is not the case with this giant from Oklahoma. Indirect heating and high-end baffles play a major role in delivering a consistent taste that is well within the desired expectations of users.
In our opinion, Joe’s Highland from Oklahoma is the runner-up in our list of the best reverse flow smokers. The overall design and operational efficiency of the device makes this smoker a highly suitable option for smoking. A 900 sq inches total cooking surface might not be the best possible choice in terms of meeting the needs of a crowd. Still, it offers plenty of space for cooking multiple things at a time.
Moreover, the device is highly suitable for newbies as it is easy to operate and assemble compared to its competitors.
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3. KBQ C-60 BBQ Smoker Pit
The next on the list is the top-notch USA-made smoker pit from KBQ. it is one of the premium smokers currently available on the market and meets the expectations of users in every regard. Indeed, it has won many performance awards based on its overall working efficiency and ergonomic design that help users obtain the desired taste and consistent flavor.
In terms of grilling space and cooking capacity, the 960 sq inches of cooking space on this smoker pit is sufficient to handle 4 briskets, 8 pork butts, and 12 chickens. However, the most interesting thing about this device revolves around the adjustment of steel racks. The creative design allows users to adjust the position of these racks in 12 different positions, allowing users to obtain the taste and flavor of their choice.
Innovative Design
The most interesting feature of this smoker pit is its innovative design. The control box fan helps produce cleaner smoke by removing unwanted particles from the air that can make food taste bitter, like dust and dirt. BBQ smoker pits like the KBQ C-60 look fantastic in any backyard or patio. It is the perfect size for cooking for yourself and your friends
The overall design and working capacity help it to cook aromatic foods like smoked fish, meats, cheeses, and vegetables with ease in this smoker pit. This unit comes with an adjustable damper to regulate airflow as well as a temperature gauge, so you know when it’s time to add wood chips to maintain your desired temperature.
Inverted Flame Firebox
The KBQ C-60 is a 60” smoker pit that has an inverted flame firebox. This means there are no flare-ups, just thin blue smoke. This design creates an environment where the smoke is forced through a narrow channel into the cooking chamber, resulting in thin blue smoke. The product uses real wood fire to cook food. It is made of steel and stainless steel with a porcelain finish.
The KBQ C-60 is a revolutionary smoker that allows you to cook with real wood to obtain the desired taste and consistent results. The KBQ C-60 comes standard with an adjustable air damper for easy temperature control. The large front door makes loading wood and accessing food quick and easy. All in all, the provision of a couple of fans inside the cooking and control chambers facilitates users in every possible way to get the best results.
Independent Combustion Control
One of the most commendable aspects of this smoker pit is its independent combustion control system which enhances its desirability in many ways. Independent combustion control means you can adjust the heat output while keeping the automatic draft going.
The unit comes with 12 adjustable positions for stainless steel racks, and it has an AutoDraft feature that helps control the temperature. These features combine to make this smoker easy to use, and it’s also designed to be energy efficient.
In our opinion, the KBQ C-60 makes the perfect choice for people who are looking for a premium reverse-flow smoker with an innovative design. The 960 square inches of grilling space on this smoker pit is adequate for grilling four briskets, eight pork butts, and 12 chickens.
Moreover, the inverted flame firebox eliminates flare-ups and provides original thin blue smoke. Other things such as the AutoDraft feature and Independent combustion control also enhance its desirability.
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4. Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker & Grill
This vertical offset smoker from Dyna-Glo offers one of the mightiest cooking spaces for BBQ. With a total cooking area of 1382 sq inches, it outperforms many of its competitors when it comes to offering reliable room for extensive grilling. It also features a set of 5 chrome-plated cooking grates that are highly resistant to rust and corrosion.
When we overview the device in terms of design and operational capacity, it offers a lot of convenience for users. Everything from an ergonomic handle to pre-installed sausage hooks helps users with extensive cooking. The built-in analog temperature also outperforms many of its competitors regarding precise temperature measurement. Additionally, we also liked the removable ashtray design that offers easy disposal within seconds.
1382 sq Inches of cooking space
The Dyna-Glo Signature Series DGSS681BDC-D Charcoal Smoker & Grill is the perfect addition to your kitchen. This smoker has a large cooking area that can accommodate up to six whole chickens or four rib racks and multiple other things simultaneously. Its 1382 sq inches of cooking space provides enough room to meet the cooking needs of everyone at a weekend BBQ party.
The removable, porcelain-coated grates are easy to clean and give you a great place for food preparation! It comes with an adjustable charcoal pan for indirect cooking, as well as two side shelves, one of which is adjustable so that you can
Easy Handling
This charcoal smoker has two doors: one on top that opens for easy access to food, and one on the bottom that provides access to the charcoal grate. The smoker and grill combo offers an adjustable temperature gauge, which allows you to cook at the perfect heat for any type of meat.
It also comes with sausage hooks so that you can easily hang your sausages while they are cooking. With this smoker-and-grill combo, you will be able to enjoy delicious smoked meats for years to come.
Highly Functional Offset Grate
It features an offset charcoal grate for even heat distribution and a convenient side firebox with a bottom vent for direct-heat cooking. The smoker/grill includes a porcelain-coated steel water pan, a removable ash catcher, a grease management system, and chrome-plated cooking racks.
In our opinion, this offset smoker combo from Dyna-Glo makes the perfect choice for people who are looking for a mighty cooking space. This BBQ grill’s 1382 sq inches of cooking space is large enough to meet the needs of anyone attending a barbecue party. Moreover, there is an adjustable temperature gauge on the smoker and grill combo, so you can choose the appropriate temperature for any type of food.
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5. Char-Griller E1224 Smoking Pro
Char-Griller E1224 is one of the best reverse flow smokers for people with small grilling needs. The availability of 830 sq inches of total cooking space ensures the BBQ needs of an average-sized family are met appropriately. Additionally, the side firebox enhances the desirability of the device in many ways.
You will also admire the presence of removable charcoal drawers that facilitate users in easy addition of the charcoal and seamless disposition of ash. With its 2-wheel design, the device might not be the ideal choice for relentless mobility. However, it offers standard capability when it comes to moving inside the house.
Powder-Coated Steel Construction
The Char-Griller E1224 Deluxe is a charcoal grill with cast iron cooking grates and powder-coated steel construction. The heat distribution is even, making it easier to cook your favorite foods. Additionally, a high-end side firebox helps you enjoy the classic Texas-style BBQ experience at home.
It has an adjustable air vent for temperature control and a built-in thermometer, so you can monitor the temperature of your food while it cooks.
Removable Charcoal Drawers
The removable charcoal drawers allow the user to easily add charcoal to the grill without removing any food. It also has a storage rack for your tools and accessories, as well as adjustable dampers to control airflow. These features ensure that you can obtain consistent results throughout your grilling process.
In our opinion, the Char-Griller device makes the best reverse flow smoker choice for casual grillers. An average-sized family would be able to meet their BBQ needs with 830 square inches of total cooking space. Additionally, the charcoal drawers are removable, which makes it easy for users to add charcoal and dispose of ash seamlessly.
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6. Landmann 560212 Charcoal Grill
The next on our list is a top-notch reverse flow grill from Landmann. The total cooking surface on this smoker grill is 734 sq inches, which is a little less than its predecessor. However, there is still plenty of room for smoking lots of things in a single go.
The total weight of the machine is a little less than 80 lbs, allowing for easy mobility within the home. Everything from the cast-iron cooking grates to the highly reliable lid design makes it well worth considering.
Adjustable Charcoal Pan
Using an adjustable charcoal pan allows you to enjoy a consistent supply of heat well within the set range. The grill features cast-iron cooking grates and a high-end lid to trap heat for better results on everything from steaks to burgers and chicken to veggies.
All in all, If you’re looking for a charcoal grill that can do it all, look no further than Landmann 560212. The cooking area is large enough for a whole chicken or pork shoulder, and the side shelf provides extra room for prep
Value for Money
The Landmann 560212 charcoal grill is a perfect choice for those looking to get the most out of their grilling experience. The cast-iron cooking grates provide an even heat distribution, so you can cook your food evenly without worrying about burning it.
The grill also features a high-end lid that allows you to take advantage of adjustable air vents for a more efficient heat supply while still protecting the device from rain or other elements. With this Landmann charcoal grill, you can take your outdoor cooking to the next level!
In our opinion, Landmann’s charcoal’ grill makes the best reverse flow smoker choice for people looking to bang for the buck. Regardless of the lower price tag, it provides all the competitive features of a high-end reverse flow smoker.
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7. Royal Gourmet CC1830FC Charcoal Grill Smoker
The last on our list is the little champ from Royal Gourmet. With an overall weight of fewer than 60 pounds, it provides a total cooking space of 823 sq inches. The overall design of the device is pretty compact and easy to maintain.
Unlike the previous one, this Royal Gourmet device is quite easy to put together. Anyone can quickly assemble the device without any help from professionals. The smoker box receives a consistent supply of smoke due to the high-end groove-style lid.
Compact Design
Its compact design makes it easy to store and move around, but don’t let its size fool you! A cooking space of 823 sq inches can easily accommodate a brisket, rib, whole chicken, or turkey.
This unit comes with many convenient features, including a side smoker for smoking different meats at the same time, and an adjustable charcoal pan. Porcelain-coated steel cooking grates prevent rusting and offer relentless durability.
Perforated Charcoal Pan
This smoker’s Perforated Charcoal Pan allows for an easy clean-up after each use and ensures better heat distribution throughout the smoking chamber.
The Royal Gourmet CC1830FC offset smoker is a great choice for backyard BBQ chef who wants to get some serious smoke on their meats. This unit features a large cooking area and a side firebox that can be used to add more charcoal or wood chips. The wagon-style wheels allow you to easily move this unit around your yard, or even take it with you camping!
In our opinion, the Royal Gourmet device makes the best choice for people looking for a compact design. This 823 square-inch cooking space can easily accommodate a whole chicken or turkey as well as briskets, ribs, and other meats.
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Conclusion
This guide covers certain aspects of reverse flow smokers in detail. We have also reviewed the 7 best reverse smokers available on the market currently. However, if you are still uncertain which smoker is the most suitable for you, take a look at the following conclusive remarks:
Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker is the overall best reverse flow smoker in terms of reliability, operational efficiency, and convenience for users. One thing that sets it apart from the rest of its competitors is its exceptional heat and smoke distribution system. You will not see any temperature inconsistency from left to right. Hence, it truly justifies what customers want from a top-notch reverse flow smoker.
The quality of construction is another positive side of this champ from Oklahoma. Everything from cooking grates to a lid-mounted thermometer features an exceptional build. As a result, you can expect this cooker to accompany you for years to come if you take care of its regular cleaning and maintenance. In this regard, careful seasoning after the assembly can help you achieve the best possible results.
Regardless of its heavy-duty construction and high-quality components, the smoker offers plenty of convenience for users in every aspect. For instance, you won’t see any assembly issues on this device as it is relatively easy to fix things on this one. Edges seal up perfectly fine without involving any complex tools or tools. In terms of cleaning and maintenance, it is fairly easy to get the job done on this machine.
FAQs
Are Reverse Flow Smokers better?
Reverse flow smokers are highly efficient devices that are better than traditional grilling devices in many ways. In particular, they outperform their competitors in terms of the even distribution of heat, constant smoke flow, and reliable operational efficiency. That is why people these days prefer these devices to offset smokers.
What does a Reverse Flow Smoker do?
A reverse flow smoker is a type of grill that has an indirect heat source, and the cooking chamber is on the opposite end. This design allows for an even distribution of heat throughout the food being cooked – which means you don’t need to constantly rotate your meat like with other grills. Reverse flow smokers are perfect for those who want to spend less time monitoring their cooking and more time enjoying it!
How do you season a Reverse Flow Smoker?
The first thing you should do before using the smoker for the first time is to apply a light coat of cooking oil or shortening on all surfaces inside the cooker. This seasoning will help your device resist rust and corrosion in the future. However, you can start using stainless steel cooking grills without performing any seasoning.