Cocktail Smoke Gun vs Smoke Lid

Quick Answer

A smoke gun uses a battery-powered fan to push smoke through a tube into a glass. It gives you a lot of control and can smoke food as well as drinks, but it costs more and can be cumbersome to handle. A smoke lid sits right on top of the glass: add wood chips, light them with a torch, and the smoke goes straight into the drink. It is simpler, easy to clean and more affordable, which makes it the better pick if you mainly smoke cocktails and whiskey. If you also want to smoke meat and cheese and want maximum control, a smoke gun is the better fit.

When it comes to adding a smoky flavor to cocktails, bartenders have two main options: the cocktail smoke gun and the smoke lid.

Both devices work by using wood chips or pellets to create smoke, which is then infused into the drink. So, which one is the better option?

What is a Cocktail Smoker?

A cocktail smoker is a small, handheld device that is used to smoke cocktails. It is similar to a traditional smoker, but it is specifically designed for cocktails.

What is a Cocktail Smoke Gun and How Do They Work?

A cocktail smoke gun is a device that allows bartenders to add smoky flavor to drinks. 

The gun uses a small, handheld gun with a built in fan that blows the smoke into a glass that can be used to infuse cocktails with the taste of smoke or wood-fired flavors.

The cocktail smoke gun has become a popular tool for bartenders looking to experiment with new flavor combinations and create unique drinking experiences. 

The smoky flavor of the drink can be enhanced by using different woods or smoking ingredients, such as herbs, spices, or fruits.

What is a Smoke Lid and How Do They Work?

A smoke lid is a device that is placed on top of a drink to create the effect of smoky tendrils rising from the surface. 

It is made up of two parts: a base that sits on the rim of the glass, and a lid that fits over the top.

The base contains a heat source (this is where you will put the wood chips), and the lid has holes in it through which the smoke escapes.

To use a smoke lid, simply light the heat source and wait for the smoke to begin to billow out of the holes in the lid.

Then place the lid on top of the drink and watch as the tendrils of smoke curl up and around it.

The effect is both visually stunning and delicious, as the smoke adds an extra dimension of flavor to whatever drink you're enjoying be in an old fashioned or straight whiskey. 

Want a smoke lid and looking for a unique option that is designed specifically for cocktail enthusiasts? Check out our cocktail smoking kit.

Smoke Gun vs Smoke Lid: Pros and Cons of Each

When it comes to smoking drinks, you have two main options: the smoke gun and the smoke lid. 

Each has its pros and cons that you should consider before making your decision.

The smoke gun is an expensive option to go with and sometimes it can be cumbersome to handle the smoke coming from the tool because it has a battery powered fan that blows all smoke through a tube that you can direct into glasses.

However, you can't deny the beautiful presentation that you will get using the smoke gun, plus it's versatile and introduces a ton of control over the smoke.

The smoke lid is more affordable (you will need a culinary torch; our Smoke Lid kits include one) than the smoke gun but produces fewer results. 

It's easy to use and clean once you get the hang of it, making it a good choice for those who want a simple way to smoke their drinks.

So, if you want a convenient option to only use for drinks, you may want to opt for a smoke lid. On the other hand, if you plan to do a lot of smoking, speaking about drinks, meat, cheese, and you want better control over the smoke, then a smoke gun is your best bet.

Smoke Gun vs Smoke Lid at a Glance

Still deciding? Our guide to the types of cocktail smokers covers every style, and you can compare our kits side by side in the cocktail smoker kit collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a smoke gun or a smoke lid better for cocktails?

For drinks only, a smoke lid is the simpler and more affordable choice: it sits on the glass and smokes the cocktail directly. A smoke gun is the better fit if you also want to smoke meat and cheese or want maximum control over the smoke.

Do you need a torch for a smoke lid?

Yes. A torch lights the wood chips in the lid. Our Smoke Lid kits include a culinary torch, and most of them include butane too; the Whiskey Smoker Lid Kit With Torch (No Butane) is the one version without fuel.

Can you smoke food with a smoke gun?

Yes. Because the smoke travels through a tube, a smoke gun can be directed at meat, cheese and other foods as well as drinks.