The smoker is all about packing in flavor, bringing a rich new layer of complexity to your favorite foods.
But smoking is a process that can't be rushed, with finite changes marking the difference between a perfectly smoked brisket, and an overpowering hunk of beef. But with the electric smoker, smoking and barbecue becomes easy.
The electric smoker is all about convenience. You can prepare your rack of ribs, set the smoker, and then go about your day. The end result is a controlled smoke with minimum effort.
Whether you're new to barbecue, or an expert looking to take a step back, there are plenty of reasons for wanting an electric smoker.
We have compiled a comprehensive list of the best electric smokers from Amazon.com and other retailers. These models come with a variety of features and specifications.
Our team has carefully reviewed each model according to their quality, price, ease of use, and other important criteria. We hope this guide can help you find the perfect electric smoker for your needs.
For those who want an affordable option without sacrificing on quality, the Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker is the way to go. It's built well, it works great, and it comes at a very reasonable price point.
With its digital controls, we find the MB20071117 incredibly easy to navigate, and a joy to use. And as one of the most popular electric smokers on the market, we don't think we're the only ones.
The build of the MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker is fantastic. Sure to last through years of family barbecues, the durable and solid body feels like quality.
The fully-insulated design keeps that heat locked in, so you can set and leave your smoker without worrying about maintaining an even temperature.
But one of our favorite things about the Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker is the side wood chip loading system.
With this, you can continue to add wood chips throughout the smoking process, while keeping the door locked tight. No excess heat leaking ensures a steady and consistent smoke, as well as a reduction in cooking time.
Still too much involvement? Take a look at the Masterbuilt Slow Smoker Accessory Attachment. It feeds wood chips into the smoker continuously over a 6-hour period with just the push of a button.
For cold smoking, the slow smoker is a necessity, and we think it's worth getting for the affordable MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker.
The interior cooking capacity of the Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker has space for up to 6 chickens, with 4 smoking racks for diverse use.
Family cooks will appreciate the room, and the removable cooking racks can accommodate even the largest cuts of meat -- 2 turkeys can fit in nicely!
Overall, we think it's hard to go wrong with the Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker. It's a quality product that will serve you well for many years to come.
SpecsPros
Also available for purchase at Masterbuilt.com.
If you're looking for a good value, then Cuisinart might be what you need. This unit offers all the basic functions of a standard electric smoker, including an analog control panel and a locking door.
But instead of charging a premium price, the Cuisinart Electric Smoker is a real bargain.
Cuisinart are a brand known for their high-quality kitchen appliances, and are popular with innovative chefs who like to sample the latest technology.
They may not have quite the same reputation among barbecue enthusiasts, we're very impressed with their range of electric smokers.
Affordable for the family and enjoyable to use, this electric smoker from Cuisinart is one of the best available.
Inside the Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker is 548 square inches of cooking space. It may not be the largest interior for a 30" smoker, but it's still a decent size. And with 3 removable stainless steel racks, you can create space for larger cuts of meat.
The Cuisinart heats itself using an incredible 1500-watt heating element, allowing the smoker to reach temperatures up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. For this size of smoker that is some awesome power, with a dial for quick control.
Setting up the Cuisinart COS-330 takes no time at all, and even first time smokers will find the process enjoyable.
It's not a fussy electric smoker -- simply stack your meats, load your wood and water trays, set the dial, and walk away. It's very low effort, so you can relax and sit back, trusting in the results of your Cuisinart smoker.
Clean up is also low-fuss, with those water and wood chip trays removing the need to deal with messy charcoal.
This Cuisinart model features a 548 square inch cooking area, and comes with a 3-year warranty. The Cuisinart COS-300 Electric Smoker is a great choice if you want something reliable and dependable, and won't break the bank.
Specs
Also available for purchase at Cuisinart.com.
The Bradley Smoker may not be the cheapest electric smoker on the market, but it makes up for it with its versatility.
This is an electric smoker to match all your smoker dreams, and make you the envy of the backyard barbecue scene. And it's so easy to use, you have almost guaranteed amazing results every time.
The Bradley Smoker has a number of features that make it stand out from other models. First off, there's the digital dials, which allow you to set the cooking time, smoking time, and oven temperature, and walk away.
Adjustments are easy with this dial, which is slightly more complex than other digital controls. However, once you've got to grips with it, the Bradley Smoker is enjoyable to control.
What helps set the Bradley smoker apart even more is the smoke diffuser system. It ensures the smoke keeps flowing throughout the interior, with CleanSmoke Technology for better flavor.
Bradley is responsible for some of the purest smoke possible, so your food has all the smokey richness, with none of that bitter edge.
With all these features, you might expect the Bradley Smoker to be difficult to use. Instead, it's a dream.
You can set up your digital smoker in no time at all, and the controlled burn of the Bradley Wood Bisquettes burns for a precisely timed period.
An automatic wood feeding system gives you the chance to sit back for up to nine hours, as wood is consistently fed in.
A dual heating element keeps the temperature controlled, so everything in the 540 square inches of cooking capacity has a consistent smoke and cook.
The Bradley Smoker is impressive, even if it does have a price tag to match. One for barbecue experts who want the chance to step back, but newcomers will find they can learn their way around the Bradley smoker quickly.
SpecsAlso available for purchase at BradleySmoker.com.
Dyna-Glo is a popular brand for those who are interested in Masterbuilt, but perhaps don't have the budget.
It's also a brand enjoyed by those who don't quite understand the Masterbuilt hype, and may have had issues with the electric grill in the past.
That might make it sound like we don't rate the Dyna-Glo Analog Electric Smoker very highly, but we actually think it has a lot to offer. This is certainly a no-frills electric smoker, in every way, from the design to the features.
But it doesn't matter that the Dyna-Glo doesn't come packed with features -- the performance is impressive enough anyway.
It's simple to operate, too. There's only one dial on the front panel, which lets you adjust the temperature, with a stainless gauge for easy monitoring.
The Dyna-Glo Analog Electric Smoker matches the Masterbuilt with a side access wood chip loader. There's limited heat and smoke loss, as there's no need to open the door for reloading.
Simply pile in your new wood chips, and watch as the temperature monitor stays high.
If you live in colder climates, the Dyna-Glo is a fantastic option. Compact but with a 1500-watt burner, this is an electric smoker that stays hot on chilly days.
The 505 square inch of cooking space is decent, and 3 chrome-plated steel cooking grates can be adjusted to change the space.
The Dyna-Glo may not have the complexity, but it isn't designed for that. Instead, this is a smoker that even the most hands-off cook can start using quickly.
And the results might not be as diverse and controlled as complicated electric smokers, but they're sure to be crowd pleasers. And your bank account will be pleased as well, thanks to the low cost of this enjoyable electric smoker.
Specs
Also available for purchase at DynaGloGrill.com.
Smokehouse Products have been creating popular smokers for decades, and the Big Chief Electric Smoker has plenty of fans in the barbecue world.
With its large capacity and excellent reviews, the Smokehouse Big Chief Electric Smoker is a great choice if you want to get into fish smoking.
This is an electric smoker that maintains a lower heat, with the 450 watt heating element reaching roughly 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
This means that while the Big Chief doesn't have the heat for all types of meat, it is ideal for home smoking fish.
Smoking fish can be tricky, as the delicate meats can't always withstand the power of a smoker. It requires a skillful touch, persistent monitoring, and quick temperature controls.
Or, you can make things easy for yourself, and try the Big Chief Electric Smoker by Smokehouse Products.
It isn't just the low heat that makes Smokehouse Products Big Chief Electric Smoker so good for fish. The premium smoke ventilation keeps the smoke circulating and prevents dripping.
Delicate fish won't become overwhelmed with a bitter smoke flavor, and can maintain texture without drying out.
Despite what the name might suggest, the Big Chief is a surprisingly lightweight smoker. It weighs just 17.57 pounds, so can be moved with ease compared to similar sized smokers.
This does mean the Big Chief lacks some of the durability and heft necessary for consistent smoking of big meats, but it helps with that low temperature needed for fish smoking.
The Smokehouse Big Chief also comes with a top load design, featuring the same great quality of the front load design. This is a large electric smoker that holds about 50 pounds of food.
It comes with a removable lid, so you can easily load and unload your food without having to worry about losing heat or smoke.
Smoking fish is tricky, and some powerful electric smokers lack the low temperatures required for an even smoke distribution. Not the Smokehouse Big Chief. Nail that perfect smoked salmon every time with this intelligent design.
Specs
Also available for purchase at SmokehouseProducts.com.
If you're looking to get started in the world of smoking, then look no further than the Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker.
This is simplicity at its finest, with a design and build that prioritizes consistency and quality over complicated functions.
Construction is clearly a priority at Char-Broil. They've made sure to include features like heavy-duty legs, two sturdy handles, and a durable frame.
These are all important aspects when trying to move a smoker around from room to room, and if you intend to use it consistently.
The double-wall insulation helps to lock the heat and smoke in, as well as contributing to a strong build. Dual latches seal the door tightly shut during the smoking process, to prevent leaks.
Char-Broil may not have considered the extras, but they've definitely made room for the basics. There's plenty of space on the bottom shelf for storing charcoal, and there's a convenient handle on the side for easy transport.
You'll also find a handy thermometer right above the door latch, so you know exactly how much heat you're getting. A front access water tray, grease cup tray, and wood chip tray, ensure the Char-Broil is easy to use.
When you've finished smoking, the simple build aids an easy clean. The chrome plated cooking grates only need a rinse in warm soapy water, while the wood chip tray means you don't have to mess about with charcoal.
If you're a beginner put off by the time commitment of a smoker, then the Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker is the place to start. Not only is it easy to set up and use, it's easy to clean and store as well.
And the simplicity of the design helps you smoke meats to perfection every time. Perhaps best of all, the Char-Broil comes at an affordable price for a long-lasting design.
Specs
Also available for purchase at CharBroil.com.
The Pit Boss PBV3A1 Electric Smoker is one of the largest smokers we reviewed. It has a capacity of 684 square inches of cooking space, which is more than enough for even the biggest of gatherings.
That said, this isn't a large smoker with a large price tag. For the size, the Pit Boss smoker is surprisingly affordable.
Inside the Pit Boss PBV3A1 there are 4 porcelain coated cooking racks. Each rack can hold several pounds of meat or poultry, making them ideal for larger cuts.
This allows you to cook multiple dishes at once without having to worry about overcrowding your smoker. Ideal for parties and barbecues with a variety of appetites to please.
The porcelain coated cooking racks are matched by a porcelain coated wood chip pan and water pan.
The external and front loaded wood chip pan is easy access, allowing you to top up the wood chips without needing to open the door. Combined with the sturdy construction, that means smoke and heat can't spill out.
Another factor we love about the Pit Boss is the window. The clear window makes monitoring the cooking process easy, especially if you're experimenting with different meats and processes.
Quickly check on the smoking process, and get back to relaxing. If you want a more thorough check, the included analog meat thermometer tells you all you need to know.
If you're serious about smoking, we think you'll love the Pit Boss Electric Smoker.
Specs
Also available for purchase at PitBoss-Grills.com.
The Royal Gourmet SE2801 is designed to make cleaning up after a party a breeze. Rather than struggling with ashes and grease, the Royal Gourmet ensures that every part of the smoking process is simple and effective.
Royal Gourmet hasn't created a mess free electric smoker by adjusting the vital components.
Instead, they've built an efficient machine that you'll enjoy using. 457 square inches of cooking space is spread over 3 chrome-coated smoking racks, providing ample room for a variety of cuts.
Thanks to the chrome coating, you can wipe away any mess and grease that might be left behind.
But it's the grease management system where the Royal Gourmet really shines. A removable stainless steel water pan and independent grease cup allows you to wash and clean on your own time, without struggling inside a bulky smoker.
The lidded chip box keeps wood chips clean from grease, preventing excess black smoke from clogging up the smoker.
We really like the construction of the Royal Gourmet electric smoker, which uses a double-wall construction firebox to maintain a consistent smoking temperature. It also features a heavy-duty latch system, for an excellent seal performance.
A cool-touch spring door handle keeps users safe, while the side handles enable transport.
The removable digital control panel is easy to use, making it suitable for beginners or experienced smokers alike. And the adjustable temperature settings allow you to create a wide variety of smoked foods.
An electric smoker is all about simplicity, and Royal Gourmet has created a smoker with that in mind. We enjoy the versatility of the smoker, and how quickly you can get everything clean at the end of a fantastic barbecue.
Specs
Also available for purchase at RoyalGourmetCorp.com.
If you're after a lightweight and portable electric smoker for backyard get-togethers, then the Smokin-It Model #2 is not for you.
But if you want a strong and sturdy beast that can handle any cuts you might have on hand, then this is ideal.
Smokin-It Model #2 is a heavy-duty smoker, made from 18 gauge, 201 stainless steel. With 4 casters, it's surprisingly moveable, but it still is a smoker that packs a punch.
The 4 stainless steel smoking racks and a capacity to hold up to 35 pounds of meat allows this electrical smoker to adapt perfectly for big backyard barbecues.
Insulation and a double latch door means this smoker works consistently. It may not look pretty, but you won't care about the aesthetics when you see what it produces.
Smokin-It Model #2 doesn't need the extra bells and whistles when it smokes meat this good.
With a 1500 watt heater, this smoker will cook food evenly and efficiently. You can adjust the temperature setting to suit your needs, whether you want a low and slow smoke or a quick burst of heat.
The new 800 watt heating element keeps the heat consistent.
We like the Smokin-It Model #2 for its results. This is a smoker that understands what's important isn't the additional features, but the end product. And the meat smoked in this machine turns out fantastic.
This is also a smoker that lasts. The heavy-duty build can withstand the knocks and hits of consistent usage. If you treat it well, the Smokin-It can last forever, and keep producing high quality food.
Specs
Also available for purchase at Smokin-It.com.
The Char-Broil 17202004 is a great option for anyone who wants something that's classy, compact, and easy to use.
It has all the same great features as other models from Char-Boil and Masterbuilt, but comes with a window so you can watch the action without having to open the door.
The Char-Broil 17202004 is designed to help you create mouthwatering barbecue flavor.
Its digital thermostat control lets you set the desired temperature between 100 °F and 450 °F, and you can set your temperature and walk away. A removable food thermometer can be programmed to beep when your meat reaches a predetermined internal temperature.
You really can sit back and relax with the Char-Broil Deluxe, and watch through the window in case anything untoward happens.
Something else we love about the Char-Broil Deluxe is the impressive capacity of the wood chip box. It can hold a remarkable 4 cups of wood chips, providing up to 7 hours of smoke.
And the double wall construction locks in the heat throughout even the longest of smoke times.
When your food is cooked, the Char-Broil Deluxe keeps on working. The warming feature means your smoked food stays warm without drying out, waiting for you to be ready to serve.
Overall, this is one of the best electric smokers for those who are looking for low effort and high results. Even cleaning up is easy, with a high capacity grease tray taking the hassle out of grease removal.
And when you're ready to put the smoker away, the back wheels aid transport.
If you're looking for an affordable electric smoker with a window, then the Char-Broil 17202004 is our best choice. It's a beautiful piece of equipment that'll make cooking delicious BBQ easier than ever before.
Specs
Also available for purchase at CharBroil.com.
Masterbuilt is one of the biggest names in electric smokers, and while the MB20070210 isn't our top smoker, it certainly deserves a mention.
This model boasts a number of features that will appeal to most people, including a large cooking area, a built-in temperature gauge, and a wood chip tray.
It also boasts three smoking racks, which makes it perfect for slow smoking or smoking larger cuts of meat.
This smoker doesn't have any bells or whistles, but with the Masterbuilt, they really aren't needed. This is a company with a quality you can trust, and that attention to detail is clear in the MB20070210.
The sturdy build and long legs make this a smoker that can stand a fair amount of usage, and still produce consistently good results.
The Masterbuilt has a nice design, with a black finish that looks great in any backyard. There's also a temperature gauge so you can tell what's going on inside, and there's a convenient handle for moving the smoker around.
The controls are simple, and first time smokers will be able to use the Masterbuilt in no time at all.
There's a good amount of room on the inside, with enough space to accommodate even a turkey (or two). Plug it in, set your temperature, and leave it -- that's how easy the Masterbuilt smoker is to use.
This is a solid smoker that won't break the bank, and it's got everything you need to cook some amazing meals. With a 1500 watt heating element and fully-insulated smoking body, it's also usable in colder temperatures.
Specs
Also available for purchase at Masterbuilt.com.
Electric smokers are about ease and simplicity. Use this buyer’s guide to ensure you get the best electric smoker for your needs.
Most electric smokers come with an analog control panel, where you adjust the settings by turning knobs and pushing buttons. These models tend to be more affordable, as well as simple to operate.
They're not always the best for achieving precise results. Digital controls are easier to use, and you can really nail the specifics.
The interior capacity of the unit determines the size of the food you can smoke. You'll want to consider the size you require for what you intend to smoke.
Smaller smokers can heat quicker, smoking cuts of meat efficiently. They're also more portable, which is fantastic if you have to keep the smoker in regular storage.
Larger smokers will accommodate even the biggest cuts of meat, including turkeys. They're also better suited for cooking large quantities of food, as they can hold multiple cuts of meat at once.
Make sure to check the internal cooking area, rather than the overall size of the smoker.
Not all electric smokers can reach the same internal temperature, with some of them maxing out several hundred degrees below others. You must consider the temperature related to how and what you intend to smoke.
Temperature controls are also important, as these allow you to set the temperature and sit back.
A quality build is essential for longevity, especially when you're using a product that gets exposed to the outdoors. Make sure to choose a model that's sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of consistent use.
Check the warranty before making a final decision. A good warranty not only offers peace of mind, but shows that the company has some faith in their build.
No one really wants to think about cleaning their electric smoker, but you don't want to ruin a fantastic barbecue by struggling to cut through the grease. A good electric smoker will use easy to clean materials in the build, and include features such as removable drip trays and wood chip trays.
If you've ever tried to cook over charcoal or gas, then you know it's hard work. It's much easier to just throw something into an oven, and forget about it until dinner time.
With an electric smoker, you can enjoy the benefits of a barbecue, with the ease of electric cooking.
Electric smokers are all about being easy to use. With an electric smoker, you can sit back and let the smoker do the hard work for you.
It's even easier to enjoy a well smoked cut of meat when you haven't been standing over the smoker all afternoon.
Masterbuilt, Bradley, Cuisinart, Char-Broil, and Dyna-Glo make some of the best electric smokers around. Smokin-It and Smokehouse Products are also good quality. We like Masterbuilt overall, but different brands fit different needs.
In the hands of an expert, a charcoal smoker will produce more flavorful results than the electric smoker. However, for a beginner, you're more likely to get better results from an easier to use electric smoker.
An electric smoker is also consistently good, and requires less effort to operate.
So, while an electric smoker may not produce the best results in the hands of an expert, for those of us who enjoy our barbecues to be low-key, the electric smoker will likely be the best choice.
Comments will be approved before showing up.
