When it comes to smoking and grilling, choosing the right equipment is crucial..
In this article, I’ll dive deep into the differences and similarities between two popular brands: Oklahoma Joe vs Char-Griller.
Drawing from my personal experiences with both smokers, I aim to provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision..
Let’s get started…!
Comparision Table:
| Checkpoints | Longhorn Reverse Flow | Char-Griller Grand Champ XD |
| Cooking space | 1060 sq in | 1200 sq in |
| Cooking grates material | Porcelain coated | Stamped Steel |
| Grate | 4 | 2 |
| Dimension | 35.5 x 64.25 x 55.5 in | 72.13 x 34.62 x 57.00 in |
| Weight | 226 pounds | 254.0 lb |
| Ashtray | No | Yes |
| Bottom Shelves | Yes | Yes |
| Temp Gauge | Yes | Yes |
| Smoke Stack | Yes | Yes |
| Front Shelves | Yes | Yes |
| Check Price | Check Price |
Quick Overview: Oklahoma Joe vs Char-Griller
Oklahoma Joe and Char-Griller are renowned names in the world of smokers. While they share some similarities, their differences can be significant depending on your needs.
Both brands offer a range of models with varying features. For instance, Char-Griller boasts models like the Grand Champ 8100 and 8250, while Oklahoma Joe offers the Longhorn and its modifications.
Key factors to consider include cooking space, material quality, design, and additional features like ashtrays and baffle plates.
Be sure to check out
– 12+ Full List of top modifications of different grills, smokers and cookers etc.
– Oklahoma Joe’s accessories
– Oklahoma Joe Longhorn Smoker Mods
– Char Griller Grand Champ XD Mods
– Oklahoma Joe Rambler Review
– Char Griller Grand Champ xd Review
– Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Mods
– Oklahoma Joe Longhorn Combo Mods
– Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Review
Oklahoma Joe vs Char-Griller – Best Overall?
Longhorn vs Char-Griller Grand Champ XD: At a Glance
- Cooking Space: Longhorn offers 1060 sq in, while Char-Griller Grand Champ provides 1200 sq in.
- Material: Longhorn features porcelain-coated grates, whereas Char-Griller opts for stamped steel.
- Price: The Longhorn costs $749, while the Char-Griller Grand Champ XD costs $549.
- Dimensions: Longhorn measures 35.5 x 64.25 x 55.5 inches, while Char-Griller is slightly larger at 72.13 x 34.62 x 57.00 inches.
- Weight: Longhorn weighs 226 pounds, and Char-Griller comes in at 254.0 lb.
- Unique Features: Longhorn can be converted into a reverse flow smoker, while Char-Griller offers a slidable ashtray..
| Feature | Char-Griller Grand Champ | Oklahoma Joe Longhorn |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Space | 1200 sq in | 1060 sq in |
| Material | Stamped Steel | Porcelain-Coated Grates |
| Unique Feature | Slidable Ashtray | Convertible to Reverse Flow Smoker |
- TYPE: The Longhorn Reverse Flow Offset Smoker provides the best for you outdoor cooking needs. With optional smokestack …
- FUEL: Charcoal fuel allows you to grill with high heat or cook low and slow.
- SIZE: 751-square-inches of primary cooking space; 309-square-inches of secondary cooking space.
Char Griller Grand Champ-XD.
- TYPE: Charcoal barrel grill and offset smoker combination.
- MATERIAL : Heavy duty steel construction.
- COOKING SPACE: 1,200 total sq.in. of generous
- INCLUDES : A Side fire box attachment, one grill grate lifter and metal cooking grates
- INSULATED ? : Yes
- DUAL DAMPER CONTROLS to provide precise airflow.
- ASH PAN to easily dispose the ashes.
- FOLDING front shelf with incorporated utensil HOOKS
- WHEELS for easy mobility
Char-Griller Grand Champ XD Offset Smoker
Pros :
- Reliable construction
- Smokes effectively and efficiently.
- Enough space for cooking.
- Holds temperature well without consuming excessive fuel.
Cons :
- It could have been good for beginners.
Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Offset Smoker
Pros :
- Wagon style wheels.
- Heavy gauge steel construction.
- Bottom metal shelf.
- Large cooking space.
- Grilling and smoking combination.
Cons :
- Prone to leakage from the door.
Major Differences:
Cooking Space:
The Char-Griller Grand Champ offers a spacious 1200 square inches, slightly edging out the Longhorn’s 1060 square inches..
Cooking Grates:
The Longhorn boasts four racks, accommodating an 8 lb brisket, pork shoulders, ribs, turkey, and more.
Shelves:
In contrast, the Char-Griller Grand Champ features two shelves, spacious enough for eight briskets, ten chickens, 38 burgers, or 11 rib racks.
A standout feature of the Char-Griller is its heavy-duty slide-out racks and a bottom shelf designed for direct cooking..
Dimensions:
While both smokers differ in size, the difference isn’t vast..
The Char-Griller XD is slightly larger, measuring 72.13 inches in depth, 34.62 inches in width, and 57.00 inches in height.
The Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker’s dimensions are 35.5 x 64.25 x 55.5 inches (LxWxH).
Weight:
The Char-Griller Grand Champ, weighing 254.0 lbs, is heftier than the Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker, which weighs 226 pounds.
Ash Management:
The Char-Griller XD is equipped with a slide-out ashtray, simplifying the cleaning process.
However, it lacks a bottom in its fuel box. On the other hand, the Longhorn provides a fuel box but doesn’t come with an ashtray..
Baffle Plate:
The Longhorn Reverse Flow features four baffles, while the Char-Griller has a single heat deflector.
Both designs effectively manage heat, with the Char-Griller also boasting a sizable 60-pound drip pan. It’s essential to consider which design is more convenient for cleaning.
Smokestack:
For those who prefer a richer smokey flavor, the Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker is the top choice.
While the Char-Griller XD has a substantial smokestack, it lacks optional placement locations.
However, this doesn’t compromise its ability to distribute smoke evenly.
Price:
If we talk about the price, the price of both of them is less than $500..
Other Notable Differences:
- Charcoal Box: Char-Griller’s Grand Champ boasts a stainless steel basket, albeit without a bottom. The reverse flow model from Oklahoma Joe, however, offers a bottomed stainless steel charcoal box but no ashtray.
- Sealing: Char-Griller’s doors and lids are sealed with a gasket, providing better heat retention. The reverse flow smoker, unfortunately, doesn’t offer this feature.
- Temperature Gauge: Char-Griller’s XD model allows for the addition of two more temperature gauges on its lid. In contrast, the Reverse flow model from Oklahoma Joe permits only one additional temp gauge..
# Similarities
Front Shelves: Both the Char-Griller and Longhorn smokers come equipped with robust front shelves, providing an ideal workspace for food preparation.
The Char-Griller further enhances convenience with a side-hanging feature for tools and tongs, complemented by its flip-back metal shelf design..
Bottom Shelves: Storage is made easy with the spacious bottom shelves on both smokers, ideal for storing wood and other essentials.
This feature minimizes the need to move around frequently during the smoking process.
Wheels: Mobility is a breeze with the Char-Griller Grand Champ’s durable steel gauge metal wheels and the Longhorn’s large, wagon-style wheels, ensuring effortless relocation.
Fuel Capacity: Both smokers boast comparable fuel capacities, with the Char-Griller offering an option for additions.
Handle: Safety and comfort are prioritized with cool-touch handles, mirroring the design of the firebox handles.
Plate Warmer: Both smokers feature an efficient plate warmer.
Drawing heat from the firebox, it provides a warm surface to keep prepared food at the ideal temperature.
Carry Handle: Whether you’re participating in competitions or simply relocating from the backyard to the front, the carry handle ensures easy transportation..
Recommende:
– You can visit Reddit to know more.
– Oklahoma Joe Rambler Accessories
Issues to Note:
Reverse flow does leak smoke, so you have to do modifications wherever needed..
What I don’t like
It could be better if the reverse flow had an ashtray.
What I like
And what I really like is that both of these smokers are a little taller..
So, whenever you smoke, you have no chance to bend yourself, and your back will not hurt you..
Accessories to Enhance Your Smoking Experience:
- OKLAHOMA JOE’S LONGHORN 18″ Smoke Stack Extension.
- Lavalock clamps
- Side Shelf
- Blacksmith Combo Grill Brush
- Temperature Gauge
- Drip Bucket
- Charcoal Firebox Basket
- Cover for Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Combo.
- Oklahoma Joe Longhorn Replacement Parts
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I attach a rotisserie to the Char-Griller Grand Champ XD?
Unfortunately, the Char-Griller Grand Champ XD doesn’t support rotisserie attachments..
2. Is it safe to burn wood logs in the Char-Griller XD?
While you can burn wood logs in the Char-Griller XD, be cautious. Wood generates intense heat, which might compromise the firebox’s finish..
3. How thick is the metal used in Char-Griller’s main cooking chamber and lid?
The Char-Griller’s main cooking chamber and lid are constructed from 12 gauge carbon steel.
4. What about the metal thickness of the fire pit and barrel in the Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker?
The fire pit and barrel of the Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker are approximately 1″ 1/10th of an inch thick..
5. Does the Reverse Flow Smoker have a drainage system?
Yes, the Reverse Flow Smoker features a drain and includes a hook for attaching a bucket.
6. Where can I purchase a Temperature Gauge for the Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker?
Temperature gauges are available on Amazon.
7. Can I sear meat directly in the Longhorn Offset Smoker?
Absolutely! In the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Offset Smoker, you can place charcoal directly beneath the primary cooking area to sear meat effectively.
Recommended:
– Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn smoker mods.
# Conclusion
In conclusion, both Oklahoma Joe’s and Char-Griller stand out as top-tier choices for smoking and grilling enthusiasts.
While each has its merits, I personally lean towards Oklahoma Joe’s.
Your decision will hinge on individual preferences, such as specific features, budget, and culinary approach.
However, regardless of the choice, both brands guarantee a reliable outdoor cooking experience.
I personally like the Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn Reverse Flow Smoker because its great features suit my needs. Such as 1060 square inches of cooking space, ceramic-coated grating and ‘reverse flow’ method..
For more insights and detailed reviews, check out our articles on top modifications of different grills, smokers, and cookers, Char Griller xd grand champ review, and Oklahoma Joe’s accessories..