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Looking to replace your old electric smoker with a new one? Are you absolutely sure about the features you are looking for?
You might feel that choosing an electric smoker isn't quite a herculean task. But the confusion starts after you come across all the models available in the market. That's where this guide to the best electric smokers will help you out.
Believe this when we say we had a tough time coming up with these options too, as there are a whole lot of models to choose from! The seven models we have picked have the most efficient features you can get in the market and are totally worth the money you spend on them!
Along with our analysis of each model, we have added some pros and cons to summarize it, which will help you further to make the right choice.
So, let's go ahead and look at the best range of portable electric smokers out there!
Best Portable Electric Smokers
Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner grilling enthusiast, these top-rated Electric Smokers will take your culinary skills to new heights. So, without further ado, here's the list of the 5 best Electric Smokers that will help you achieve mouthwatering smoked delicacies with minimal effort.
1. Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker - Best for Large Cooking Space
Masterbuilt is known for manufacturing some of the best electric smokers available in the market. The products are high on the value-for-money quotient as well. And the MB20071117 Digital Smoker is among the most sought-after models of the brand. The dimensions measure 20 inches by 19 inches by 33 inches, thus offering a quite large cooking space. As per our experience, we regard it as one of the best among these four.
Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker, 30", Black
- Digital panel controls on/off, cooking temperature and time
- Electric Smoker dimensions – 20.47" W x 19.88" L x 33.26"...
Why Did We Like It?
We were highly encouraged by the great user reviews for this electric smoker. So we went ahead and tried making a juicy, smoky meal in it. And what do you think? The product completely lived up to our expectations, giving an intense taste to the meal!
The large cooking space in the smoker will allow you to put 4 trays with different food items in one go! Hence, you will have food cooked for 4 to 5 people at the same time.
Furthermore, the durable and reliable build quality of the product is another feature that ensures it has great longevity. Also, cleaning the smoker is the easiest, as you just need to clean two trays. While one tray collects the oil and grease dripping, the other is for collecting the ash of the wood chips.
What Could've Been Better?
While we totally enjoyed our delicious smoky meals with this product, there were a couple of drawbacks as well. We encountered a problem with the thermostat, which led to a half-cooked meal, but of course, it was very rare. Another minor issue was when we found it hard to read the digital control panel in direct sunlight.
Pros
- Efficient temperature control for perfect cooking
- Excellent insulation
- Easy to clean
- Large cooking area
- Durable build quality
Cons
- Problems with the thermostat
- Control panel not properly visible in direct sunlight
Cooking Area: 721 sq. inches | Size: 30" | Temperature Range: 100°F - 275°F | Power Source: Electric | Control Type: Digital | Weight: 45 lbs
2. Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker - Best for User Convenience
Another great pick for a roomy electric smoker would be this model by Cuisinart, which offers 548 square inches of space. That is a good deal of cooking space as it lets you set large slabs of meat at a time! The product also comes with a smart build that does not occupy too much space externally.
Cuisinart COS-330 Vertical Electric Smoker, Three Removable...
- 548 SQUARE INCHES OF INTERIOR: The spacious 548 square inch...
- THREE REMOVABLE SMOKING SHELVES: Three chrome plated steel...
Why Did We Like It?
During our experience with the Cuisinart model, we found quite a few similarities with our previous pick. Both have similar temperature-controlling abilities, though the devices used for the purpose are different.
However, some key features of this model make it score better than its Masterbuilt counterpart in some aspects. For example, the Cuisinart model does not have a corded electric system which means it requires less cable to plug in.
A key reason why this Cuisinart smoker is one of the favorites is the versatile cooking experience that it offers. It is also a perfect choice for someone who is new to preparing smoky meals, as it is very convenient to use.
All the racks in the smoker can weigh different variations of the meal in different colors. The convection of each rack, along with its grilling surface, gives you the experience of a new smoker in itself!
What Could've Been Better?
Although this model has quite a few features that make it stand out among the others, it is not one of those pocket-friendly ones. We found another drawback to be that its heating capacity is not up to the mark, as compared to smokers who use propane.
Pros
- Versatile cooking experience
- Requires less cable to plug in
- Built-in analog thermometer
- Three removable stainless steel racks
Cons
- Heating is not up to the mark
Cooking Area: 548 sq. inches | Size: 30" | Temperature Range: 100°F - 400°F | Power Source: Electric | Control Type: Analog | Weight: 59 lbs
3. Masterbuilt MB20070210 Analog Electric Smoker - Best Budget-Friendly Option
Our next pick is one of the most budget-friendly electric smokers that you can get. And what is most surprising about this product is that it ranks quite high in terms of performance, despite having a low price. The model also comes with a 1500-watt heating element, which is an added advantage.
Masterbuilt MB20070210 Analog Electric Smoker with 3 Smoking...
- Built-in temperature gauge
- Temperature control is easy with analog dial
Why Did We Like It?
When we tried out this Masterbuilt smoker, we found that it could raise the meal's temperature very fast and could hold it on a pre-fixed level. There is also a better insulation system inside the smokers. A knob on the side can also be used to keep the internal temperature under control. These features enable the cooking to be more uniform and enhance the taste of the meal.
With this smoker at home, we assure you that arranging food for a family gathering of around four people will be completely hassle-free! The top rack has space that is enough to put a large piece of meat and cook it perfectly.
Very much like other models, we also found it to be super-easy to clean. Moreover, putting an aluminum foil over the drip tray prior to cooking ensures that you don't need any cleaning at all. The chrome-plated racks are also quite easy to clean as only soapy water is needed for the purpose.
What Could've Been Better?
As the model is equipped with adequate temperature control options and an efficient heating system, there is almost nothing to be wary about. But one issue may be that the wood chip tray is not big enough to hold sufficient chips or water.
Pros
- Raises the temperature of the meal quite fast
- Better insulation within the smokers
- Can cook meals for 3-4 people at the same time
- Super-easy to clean
Cons
- Wood-chip tray not big enough
Cooking Area: 536 sq. inches | Size: 30" | Temperature Range: 100°F - 400°F | Power Source: Electric | Control Type: Analog | Weight: 49.9 lbs
4. Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker
This durable model from the USA's most popular grill brand is another one that really appealed to us. At the outset, we were encouraged by the exciting customer reviews. And it completely lived up to our expectations, with a number of performance-enhancing features which did the trick. All this at a moderate price range was the icing on the cake!
Sale
Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker
- 544 Square inches of cooking space spread across three...
- Double-wall insulated construction with dual exhaust...
Why Did We Like It?
The large cooking space of 544 square inches spread across three cooking grates gives it the versatility to serve small as well as large gatherings. So, this Char-Broil smoker at home will always ensure there is enough meal for everyone.
To add to this, the water pan made of aluminized steel works wonderfully to prevent the meat from getting dried up, retaining the juicy flavor that we all love. Sturdy construction with quality material also ensures the durability of the product.
Besides such fantastic features, you can easily monitor the cooking temperature, thanks to the temperature gauge mounted on the door. Overall, these features will surely convince you to go for this smoker.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although we didn't face many issues with this model, we felt the temperature maintenance across seasons could have been better. This can be fixed by replacing the thermostat with a newer one. Other than that, you might as well go for another product if looks matter to you more than the functioning.
Pros
- Grate material made of chrome-plated wire
- Budget-friendly choice
- Moderate weight of 49.5 lbs
Cons
- Temperature maintenance
Cooking Area: 544 sq. inches | Size: 30" | Temperature Range: 100°F - 400°F | Power Source: Electric | Control Type: Analog | Weight: 49.5 lbs
5. Dyna-Glo DGX780BDC-D Vertical Charcoal Smoker
Among the wide range of charcoal smokers that are available, we found this product to be the best buy. So if your favorite fuel source is charcoal, this model just fits the bill! Furthermore, cooking a variety of meals simultaneously isn't much of an issue if you have this smoker at home.
Dyna-Glo DGX780BDC-D 36" Vertical Charcoal Smoker Black
- 4 cooking grates
- 784 square Inch of total cooking area
Why Did We Like It?
What appealed to us the most was the charcoal and ash management system in the product. It consists of a porcelain-enameled charcoal chamber that keeps coal blocks stacked tight for improving burn efficiency. With this, achieving a superbly cooked meal becomes just so easy!
Accompanied by the chamber is a removable ash pan to handle large quantities of ash. It enables hours of cooking without frequent maintenance. Hence, if we talk about convenience, very few products will stand a chance against this one!
Moreover, the four height-adjustable cooking chambers give the product the ability to accommodate varying types and sizes of food. The vertical shape of the product is an added advantage as it captures the maximum smoky flavor in the meal.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although the product is undoubtedly a very efficient one, its thin metal body makes heat retention difficult at times. Another concern might be leakage from the RTV silicone door of the smoker. An easy way to prevent this would be by fitting a fiber gasket onto it.
Pros
- Hassle-free cooking with minimum maintenance
- Vertical shape
- Four cooking grates
Cons
- Thin metal body
Cooking Area: 784 sq. inches | Size: 36" | Temperature Range: Adjustable | Power Source: Charcoal | Control Type: Analog | Weight: 79 lbs
Best Electric Smokers Comparison Table
| Product | Cooking Area | Size | Temperature Range | Power Source | Control Type | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker | 721 sq. inches | 30" | 100°F - 275°F | Electric | Digital | 45 lbs |
| Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker | 548 sq. inches | 30" | 100°F - 400°F | Electric | Analog | 59 lbs |
| Masterbuilt MB20070210 Analog Electric Smoker | 536 sq. inches | 30" | 100°F - 400°F | Electric | Analog | 49.9 lbs |
| Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker | 544 sq. inches | 30" | 100°F - 400°F | Electric | Analog | 49.5 lbs |
| Dyna-Glo DGX780BDC-D Vertical Charcoal Smoker | 784 sq. inches | 36" | Adjustable | Charcoal | Analog | 79 lbs |
Buying Guide For The Best Electric Smoker
By now, you must have read through the options for electric smokers we’ve picked for you. So, have you been able to zero in on the one which seems most suitable? Well, that’s not so simple after all!
Making a choice from a list of efficient options is indeed a confusing task. There are quite a few factors that need considering while buying an electric smoker.
This is why we have included this thorough buyer’s guide in the article. So, go on and give it a read.
Ease of Use
Electric smokers consist of a vital heating element that raises its surface temperature. A smoker will be safe and easy to use if it has side handles that are heat-resistant.
If the product has foldable legs, those will facilitate easy transport and storage. Also, with a power cord that is at least 6 feet long, you can easily plug the smoker into a power source.
Performance
The performance of an electric smoker can be figured out from the power of its heating element. So checking this parameter is essential to making an efficient choice.
An ideal electric smoker should consist of a 1400-1500 Watt heating element to make sure the food gets the standard taste and flavor.
Cooking Capacity
Your smoker should have a cooking space of at least 500 square inches. Thereby, you can conveniently smoke the amount of barbeque that you need.
Also, the space should be spread across at least 2-3 cooking racks. This will allow you to cook a variety of meals in one go.
Portability
An electric smoker should not be weighing more than 22 lbs. so that you can carry it over with not too much effort. A product that weighs more cannot be considered an ideal buy in terms of portability.
Yes, Electric Smokers are generally considered easy to use. They offer precise temperature control, usually with digital controls, making it easier to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the cooking process. Many models also have features like timers and automatic shut-off for added convenience. Most Electric Smokers are designed for outdoor use due to the smoke generated during the cooking process. However, there are some electric models with smokeless operation or built-in smoke extractors that can be used indoors. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines before using an Electric Smoker indoors. The cooking time in an Electric Smoker varies depending on the type and size of the food being smoked. Generally, smoking times can range from a few hours for smaller cuts of meat to several hours or even overnight for larger or tougher cuts. It’s important to refer to specific recipes or cooking guidelines for accurate smoking times. It is generally recommended to use the wood chips or pellets specified by the manufacturer to achieve the best results. Different types of wood chips or pellets can impart distinct flavors to the food being smoked. However, some Electric Smokers may offer compatibility with a variety of wood chips or pellets, allowing for experimentation with different flavors. Absolutely! Electric Smokers are versatile and can be used to smoke a variety of foods including fish, vegetables, cheese, and even desserts. The controlled temperature and smoky environment can enhance the flavors of many different ingredients, allowing for creative culinary possibilities.Electric Smokers FAQ's
Are Electric Smokers easy to use?Can Electric Smokers be used indoors?How long does it take to smoke food in an Electric Smoker?Can I use wood chips or pellets other than the ones recommended by the manufacturer?Can I cook food other than meat in an Electric Smoker?
Conclusion
Set the smoker and your meal for the barbeque party or family dinner is sorted! This is what makes electric smokers a favorite for today's households. There is no hassle of lighting the charcoal or checking the supply of fuel every hour!
With this, we come to the end of this comprehensive guide to the seven best electric smokers. We hope you will find it much easier to make your choice now.
Before we sign off, we would like to put forward our favorites among these seven options. The Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker will be the right choice for somebody on the lookout for an efficient as well as durable option.
The Masterbuilt MB20073519 Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker with Broiler offers effective temperature control but may be slightly beyond the budget. The best-budget buy, in our view, would be the Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker.
Let us know whether you agree with our choice in the comments section. Till we meet again!
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