Are you looking for a new electric smoker? Most people want the delicious taste that smoking offers, and they’re not sure which one is right for them. There are plenty of electric smoker reviews out there, but this one is extensive and conclusive.
Are you interested in something with a digital control panel? Do you need to be careful with your budget and want something for a low price that’s still high-quality? Is it important that the smoker be easy to use?
These questions may be hard to answer right now because you might not have an idea of what you need. However, as you read through the reviews and learn how to buy a smoker, you’re going to realize what you need to focus on.
Typically, you want something easy to move that can be used for various meat products and other items. Price is important, but you also need the right features for it to be the best. We are always looking for products that make our lives easier, and a smoker is the top choice.
Though you need electricity to utilize them, they are the best when you’re grilling meat at home and want the best product possible. Let’s look at the top 14 products now!
Short on Time? Here Are Our Top 3 Electric Smokers
Masterbuilt MB200771117 Best Overall
Masterbuilt MB20073519 Best Bluetooth Smooker
Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker Best Values
Buyer’s Guide for Electric Smokers
Though there’s something to be said for gas grills, we know that some people prefer to smoke their meat and an electric smoker is often the best choice. You’ve got to know about the four major types before you choose the best electric smoker for your needs. They’re usually categorized by the fuel source they use to generate the heat and include:
- Charcoal grills
- Propane and gas grills
- Electric smokers with wood or pellet auger systems
- Electric smokers
The type you select is going to determine how you use it. Clearly, our guide is focused on the best electric smoker on the market, but you should be aware that there are others. There’s a reason that many people choose electric smokers as the best choice for them, and you’re about to see why purchasing an electric smoker is the best choice to smoke meat. Though many electric smoker reviews don’t include so much information, we want you to have the best experience so that you know what to consider is your electric smoker.
back to menu ↑What Defines the Best of the Electric Smokers to Buy
There are plenty of smoker features that you should be aware of when choosing the best electric smoker for your needs. That’s why this list is here. You’ve got many points to consider when selecting an electric smoker, based on the experience you want. Let’s find out what’s most important:
Total Capacity
The total capacity of the electric smoker is an essential aspect for the best electric smoker. You’ve got to know how much meat it holds. Even if there are many exciting features, the electric smoker isn’t going to work the best if it doesn’t hold enough for your family or needs. If you typically cook for large family gatherings or crowds, you want a sizeable electric smoker that holds all the meat you’re going to need, including multiple racks of ribs. It should also have a big grease tray and wood tray.
Ease of Use
Make sure that the electric smoker model you choose features a user-friendly design and is easy to operate. Also, you should check the digital temperature and time/temperature control panel to ensure that there are plenty of options. They should be easy to follow so that you can set it and forget it.
The electric smoker should use a glass window so that you can see what’s going on inside your smoker. You also want it to have removable grill racks and a wood chip tray and drip pan that are removable. This makes it easy for you to do what you need while smoking racks of ribs or any other meat.
Your electric smoker is going to get extra points if it’s a Bluetooth digital electric smoker or offers a remote control. However, there are plenty of analog electric smoker options that work beautifully, as well. They might not be as easy to set up, and you’re going to have to monitor them to control the internal temperature. Consider an electric smoker that’s easy to move if you plan to take it on trips with you or move it around the property.
Internal Temperature Range
The best electric smoker has a good heating element and can produce excellent smoke levels. You want an internal temperature range of anywhere from 100 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. That way, you can cook fast or low-and-slow, depending on your preferences and needs.
It’s important that the electric smoker features a powerful heating element because that makes it easy to control the temperature effectively. The internal temperature range should feature the right temperatures for smoking meat, but some of them are also designed for grilling. This ensures that you can cook for a big group or a small family.
Ideally, the electric smoker should be easy to set up so that you can set it and forget about it. Typically, the best electric smoker models feature digital temperature settings so that they are easy to use. A temperature probe is also essential so that you can tell what temperature the meat is at and don’t have to interrupt the smoking process by opening up the smoker and letting all the heat out of the cooking chamber.
Mobility
While it seems a little weird to consider the mobility of your electric smoker, you may want to use the smoker at various locations. You can pack it up and take it on a camping trip (if there is electricity at the campsite). Alternatively, you may have it stored next to the house but want to move it into the center of the patio when smoking meat.
Regardless of where you may want to take the electric smoker, it has to be lightweight enough to be moved easily but durable enough to withstand such movements. You also want to check the power cord’s length and ensure that it has wheels or is easy to pick up from the handles.
Ease of Maintenance
It’s important that it’s easy to maintain the electric smoker. The best ones are going to have removable cooking grates, panels, racks, grease pans, water pans, wood chip tray, and more. You may also want to check with the manufacturer to make sure that the parts are easy to replace if there’s a need. These features may be more for convenience, but it’s going to make it easy to use your electric smoker, and you might find yourself smoking every meal.
Remote Controls
Whether you want an electric digital smoker or an analog version, the best electric smoker models come with remote controls to help with temperature control. This helps tremendously for smoking meats because you don’t have to stand right by the smoker all day long. Just adjust the temperature or check it using the remote.
Some remotes also allow you to check the temperature of the meat by pressing a temp readout button. This makes the smoking process easy for you because you can monitor everything, even if you have to pop inside to make the sides.
Price
Everyone is always so concerned about price when it comes to buying anything. Though you want a low price, you also have to consider what it does and how well it works.
A low price doesn’t always guarantee that it is junk, and a high price doesn’t indicate that it’s the best electric smoker out there. However, price alone shouldn’t be the deciding factor. Know your budget range, and then look for options on the higher end. That way, you get a decent price with better features.
Even low-price electric smokers are designed to last a long time, though they may not have some of the more exciting features, such as Bluetooth connectivity.
When focused on price, you also have to make sure that the electric smoker has a wide enough cooking chamber to meet your smoking needs. That way, it’s easy to use, has a low price point, and still has a large enough cooking area for your household.
Warranty
Though most reviews don’t talk about the warranty, you know that it is going to be used extensively. Therefore, it should be covered for at least a year. Some manufacturers go up to five years or allow you to buy a long-term warranty. Especially if you get an electric digital smoker, you want to protect the circuitry for as long as you can while smoking your meat.
back to menu ↑Comparison Table
Electric Smoker | Cooking Space | Weight | Dimensions | Review |
Masterbuilt 20071117 30-inch | 730 square inches | 51.54 pounds | 18.1×19.4×34.9 inches | Check Price |
Masterbuilt MB20073519 30-inch | 900 square inches | 54 pounds | 19.88×20.66×33.46 inches | Check Price |
Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker | 725 square inches | 50.2 pounds | 16.5×18.1×32.5 inches | Check Price |
Bradley Digital 6 Rack Smoker | 780 square inches | 60.5 pounds | 11.5x15x33 inches | Check Price |
Masterbuilt 20078616 Electric Bullet Smoker | 395 square inches | 17.58 pounds | 19.13z25.39×31.49 inches | Check Price |
Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow 30162E 30-inch Electric Smoker | 450 square inches | 46 pounds | 18.54×18.19×33.35 inches | Check Price |
Old Smokey Electric Smoker | 360 square inches | 24 pounds | 15.5×15.5×29 inches | Check Price |
Smokin-It Model 1 Electric Smoker | 468 square inches | 114 pounds | 24x30x22 inches | Check Price |
Pit Boss Grills 77220 2.2 Analog Smoker 40 inch | 593 square inches | 58 pounds | 21.5x23x41 inches | Check Price |
Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker | 544 square inches | 49.5 pounds | 15×20.7×33.5 inches | Check Price |
Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D 30″ Digital Electric Smoker | 732 square inches | 62.2 pounds | 19.4x19x32.5 inches | Check Price |
CookShack Electric Smoker Oven SM009-2 | 588 square inches | 74 pounds | 31.75x19x16.5 inches | Check Price |
Masterbuilt MB20072618 1200W 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker | 563 square inches | 70.66 pounds | 18.24×42.24×42.24 inches | Check Price |
Masterbuilt MB20073716 Portable Patio Smoker | 280 square inches | 21.81 pounds | 16.14×17.72×21.06 inches | Check Price |
The 14 Best Electric Smokers: Detailed Reviews
1. Masterbuilt 20071117 – Best Overall
The Masterbuilt brand offers a digital smoker that we think is the best overall. This 30-inch smoker is suitable for someone who’s new to smoking meat, and you’re going to like the price, regardless of your experience level.
We like that the main cabinet of the Masterbuilt 20071117 is made using steel and features a plastic trim, though the interior is aluminum. You’re going to appreciate the built-in control panel because you can set the temperature inside from between 100 to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. The same panel includes the on/off controls and everything else. Plus, the thermostat is integrated to deal with the rest.
With the Masterbuilt 20071117, you can add wood chips directly to the wood chip tray without opening the smoker’s door. This ensures that the smoke stays inside where it belongs.
It’s easy to like the Masterbuilt brand, and this smoker comes with chrome-coated smoking racks. That way, you don’t worry that the meat is going to stick when you go to remove it.
Masterbuilt is considered the best brand overall for smokers and grills. With this model, you can cook six chickens, two turkeys, or four pork shoulders/bellies. You get four racks, but you can remove some of them so that you can cook bigger cuts of meat. Right by the controller, you’ve got the vent. This allows you to open and close it to let out a little smoke at a time.
2. Masterbuilt MB20073519 – Best Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker
Many people don’t realize that the Masterbuilt brand focuses on being the best in regards to price and smart features. Therefore, you’re sure to appreciate the Masterbuilt MB20073519 because it is low-cost and still offers Bluetooth connectivity.
However, this product might be technologically advanced, but it’s highly practical, too. You get plenty of space to cook on with the chrome-coated racks. In fact, you can cook four pork butts, two turkeys, or six chickens.
With the Bluetooth technology, you also get a built-in meat probe. Therefore, Masterbuilt lets you monitor the process while you relax and socialize. You can download an app to your smartphone and control the cooking temperature, monitor the meat’s internal temp right from the display panel, or even turn the smoker on and off.
It’s also possible to add wood chips to the stainless steel smoker without having to open the door. The side wood chip system is a patented idea for Masterbuilt and isn’t found anywhere else. If you want a digital electric smoker, this is the best option for you.
3. Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker – Best Value
If you aren’t a huge fan of Masterbuilt, that’s not the only smoker option out there. The Char-Broil Deluxe is a digital electric smoker, and we think it could be a great alternative, especially for the price. This is the best value smoker out there and is almost identical to the Masterbuilt brand in terms of size because it offers four cooking grates.
We like the stainless steel design of the Char-Broil Deluxe, as well. This smoker uses a remote control, so you can adjust the temp and view it from your home. It’s also possible to turn off the smoker using the remote if necessary. Plus, you can control the temperature inside, change cooking times, and so much more, right from the smoker’s top.
Electric smokers should come with a glass door, and this one does. That way, you can oversee the cooking process for yourself. While most people aren’t going to sit and watch the food cook, it’s nice that you can check on the appearance of the meat without having to open the door, letting out all the smoky goodness.
The Deluxe is constructed well and considered very sturdy. We like the steel exterior walls, which also offers better heat retention than other materials. While you may worry about the glass door, it is durable, though it does radiate the heat. Keep children and pets away from it while the smoker is running.
You’re going to appreciate that you can put in ample wood chips. When cooking low and slow, this is the best thing for a smoker. It’s got a special compartment to slide into, and you’re sure to have the smokiest meats possible.
With this smoker, you get a temperature probe included. Set it to the preferred temperature and let the smoker work its magic. Once the right temperature is reached for the food, the unit turns off and starts cooling down immediately.
Electric smokers like this are designed to hold up to eight slabs of ribs or two pork butts, depending on their size. Plus, you’re going to appreciate the heating element that sits right at the bottom and works to heat up the entire space quickly and evenly.
4. Bradley Digital 6 Rack Smoker – Best Vertical
Those who have a little extra to spend may want to consider the Bradley Digital 6 Rack Smoker. We think it’s the best vertical smoker out there for the price, but it is a little weird. Primarily, it’s a hybrid between a pellet and electric smoker. The front-loading cabinet-style smoker features a lot of polished stainless steel on the exterior. You’re going to like that because it helps retain the heat. However, it doesn’t use wood chips for the flavor like traditional electric smokers. Instead, it uses the brand’s proprietary wood ‘bisquettes.’
They’re made of compressed sawdust, and they’re similar to the pellets used in the pellet grill. However, they can only be used with the Bradley product to produce the heat and smoke needed for the cooking process.
We like that the Bradley features six cooking grates, but you can remove them as needed to smoke bigger portions of meat. The smoker can reach a temperature of right around 280 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for smoking most meats.
This six-rack version has upgrades that the original Bradley doesn’t. For one, there are upgraded heating controls and precision temperature choices. You’re going to appreciate the auto-off feature, too.
There’s a 500-watt heating element, so it’s not as strong as some of the other electric smokers out there. However, it’s powerful enough to get the job done. In fact, it has such a great seal that the temperature doesn’t fluctuate, even with the lower wattage.
5. Masterbuilt 20078616 Electric Bullet Smoker – Best Portable
It’s clear to see that Masterbuilt is a top brand for electric smokers and grills. It produces products that have a low price, but they’re versatile and high-quality. Those who want a portable smoker are sure to appreciate the Electric Bullet Smoker from Masterbuilt.
You’re going to like that the Bullet is user-friendly because of the design. The curved handles on the sides allow you to pick it up when you want to move it somewhere else. However, it doesn’t need wheels to be pushed because it’s only 46 pounds. Some people worry about it being hot to the touch, but the lid and side handles don’t conduct heat. Therefore, it’s possible to lift the lid or move the smoker without wearing gloves. Still, we recommend that you wear them for safety purposes; some people may have more sensitivity to the hot temperature than others.
We find that the Bullet has a smaller interior than some of the others from the brand. However, it does contain two chrome-plated cooking racks. This is advantageous to you because the racks don’t let the meat stick to the surface.
Though you can’t cook significant amounts of food at once, it is ideal for small families or tailgating parties. It’s possible to remove the racks and cook a large chicken or turkey, too.
The compact design is ideal for almost everyone, and it’s lightweight enough to store wherever you want and move it out when you want to smoke.
You’re going to appreciate the 1,650-watt heating element. This helps it reach a temperature of 400 degrees, which most smokers can’t handle. Therefore, you can cook almost any type of meat the way you want it.
6. Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow 30162E 30-inch Electric Smoker
If you want something for a low price that still has the best features, the Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow Smoker might be ideal. It’s a top outdoor smoker option because the unit has easy to use temperature controls right from the digital control panel. That way, you can easily turn on and off the unit. This feature also helps you monitor the temperature and time for smoking.
We like that the Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow Smoker is completely insulated. That way, you get consistency with the temperature. You can keep the smoke in the chamber, giving you optimal cooking power and delicious flavor from the wood chips.
It’s possible to control the smoke that gets into the food by adjusting the damper at the top of the Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow smoker. If it needs more moisture, the water bowl is removable, allowing you to fill it up quickly.
You’re going to like the three chrome-coated racks. They’re designed to last a long time, and a quick spray with cooking oil keeps the food from sticking. Plus, the 800-watt heating element is strong enough to cook food at the top of the smoker with no problems.
7. Old Smokey Electric Smoker
If you’re one of those who prefer their smoker to look plain and simple, Old Smokey has you covered. It’s actually just a metal barrel that stands up vertically. It does contain a heating element and a metal tray, and inside there are various racks to put your food. We think you’re going to like the price because it doesn’t cost much and is a simple device.
In fact, that could be the best reason to choose this smoker is that it is simple. Beginners aren’t going to have any problems. The smoke gets produced at the bottom, but it drifts upward and all while cooking the meat. Heat is generated from the heating element in the bottom, so you can roast at a high temperature if you put the meat down there. However, the ultimate goal of the smoker is to cook the food slowly at a low temperature.
We like that the smoker system is entirely sealed because of the flat-top lid. Other models use adjustable vents to let in more air. However, this lets out the moisture, and with this system, the meat doesn’t dry out and stays juicy. It’s budget-friendly and ideal for beginners who don’t want to invest a lot and still want a great value.
The tower design of the smoker is made using aluminum, and there are two grates that can be removed. Each of the racks can hold a dozen hamburger patties. We like the flat-roof design because the moisture rises but then goes right back down into the meat. However, there aren’t any numeric controls. You operate it with the simple dial to increase or decrease the temperature. Therefore, you may want to use a meat thermometer to ensure that you get a proper reading.
We do like the warm setting, so you can reheat food later. You can use this smoker every day if you want, and the outcome is always going to be flavorful, juicy, and delicious meat.
8. Smokin-It Model 1 Electric Smoker
If you want a heavy-duty smoker for large arrangements, the Smokin-It Model 1 is what you need. The entire thing is made of stainless steel and designed to hold about 22 pounds at once. Those who really like smoked meats are sure to appreciate this product.
We like that the smoker is made with 18-gauge stainless steel, which is nonmagnetic. Therefore, you know the product is durable and strong enough to handle almost anything you throw at it. The price is a little higher than with other brands, but it has everything you could want in a compact size.
You can adjust the temperature with the built-in controls. Since it contains an electric heat source, this is efficient and effective. The 400-watt heating element helps you reach higher temperatures, though it is designed for low-and-slow cooking. We also like the LED light to help you see inside.
Though the outside is stainless steel, there’s a fiberglass inlay. Therefore, it’s more insulated than other brands, and the heat is going to stay inside where you want it to be.
There’s plenty of space in the smokebox to hold wood chips. Plus, the cooking area is spacious, as well. It is proportionate to the size, and there is a drip pan below the smokebox and heating element to help catch grease and fat from the meat.
You’re going to appreciate that this smoker is lightweight when compared to others, even though it looks heavy and squat. There are handles on the sides to lift if when necessary. However, the wheels are what makes it portable.
9. Pit Boss Grills 77221 2.2 Digital Smoker
When you want something that has a decent price and is spacious, the Pit Boss Grills Smoker is an ideal choice. This 40-inch smoker offers a temperature range of 150 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. That way, you can use it to smoke in various ways.
We like the blue color of the Pit Boss. Even though it isn’t essential, you want something that looks good on the patio. You’re probably going to be more excited with the large window that helps you see the food cook. There’s also a heat indicator on it, so you can monitor how well the food is doing without having to open the door.
We like the control knob to adjust the temperature. Plus, there are two dampers. This way, you can maintain the best temperatures, regardless of what you’re doing.
There’s an oversized wood-chip tray, too. It lasts for up to two hours of cook time. If you need to refill it, the front-load feature means that you don’t have to open up the entire thing and let out the smoke and heat. It sits right below the door and has its own handle.
You’re sure to appreciate the double-walled steel walls because they retain heat better. Plus, the high-heat coating means that the paint doesn’t bubble or peel.
10. Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker
We like the Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker because it’s still a budget option, even though the price is a little higher than the other options. You get three chrome-plated cooking grates, so you can stack a variety of meats and cook them all at once.
You’re going to appreciate the wood chip box because it has a very large capacity. Cook for hours without having to refill the chips each time. However, if you do need to refill the box, it’s easy to do that. On the door, you can find a temperature gauge, allowing you to monitor the temperature inside without having to open it and use a meat thermometer.
This smoker features an aluminized steel water pan. That way, the meat stays juicy, even if you’re cooking slowly. At the end of your session, you can easily remove the drip tray to clean it.
There is a heating element that produces 1,200 watts. Therefore, you get a consistent temperature and more durability. We also like that the cooking chamber is fully insulated with a heavy-duty door.
11. Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D 30″ Digital Electric Smoker
Everyone seems to like the Dyna-Glo brand because the price is right. The electric smoker features four chrome-plated cooking grates, so you have plenty of space to put the meat. There’s also an 800-watt burner, which seems like it isn’t strong enough. However, it gives off enough power to work well in colder climates, too.
You’re going to like the Dyna-Glo brand for smoking meat because of the digital thermostat. It has push-button controls so you can monitor and set the time and temperature easily. There’s also an integrated thermometer that goes right into the meat. You can see the internal temperature by pushing a button and checking the digital display.
We like that the wood chip loader is to the side, making it easier to add more chips to the smokebox. You don’t have to open the door and let out the heat. In fact, you’re going to appreciate the double-wall firebox because it’s fully insulated. The door seals shut completely, as well, which retains heat while you cook.
12. CookShack Electric Smoker Oven SM009-2
If you’re in the market for the perfect smoker and want something for a decent price, the CookShack brand has you covered. It’s made of stainless steel and focuses on affordability. Plus, it’s straightforward and has digital controls. That way, you can control the temperatures easily. Just put the meat probe into the oven and turn it on.
You get hassle-free smoking with this product. Plus, it offers many automated options, which can be excellent for beginners. There are a spacious cooking area and three nickel-plated grates. It’s possible to adjust them as needed or even take one or two out, depending on what you’re cooking.
Though stainless steel is used for the outside, there is fiberglass insulation, which can take 850 degrees of heat. Therefore, you don’t have to worry that the product is going to overheat and retains its heat well.
13. Masterbuilt MB20072618 1200W 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker
If you want an electric smoker that has a great price and excellent value, you want the Masterbuilt MB20072618. It’s 40 inches wide and features a digital display. We like that there is plenty of space, which means you can cook for large groups. However, it doesn’t use a lot of electricity, so you can still cook for a small family without raising your utility bill.
You’re going to appreciate the additional controls it offers. You can keep track of how the meat is cooking and don’t end up with dry food. When you choose the Masterbuilt brand, you just have to plug it in and set the controls. It works and does everything for you. Plus, you don’t need any charcoal or gas to have delicious food.
14. Masterbuilt MB20073716 Portable Patio Smoker
Some people find that they are always around a power source (electricity), and they wish they could have smoked flavors while they’re out and about. With the Masterbuilt Portable Patio Smoker, you can! It features a heating element that produces 1,400 watts of power. You also get two chrome-coated racks inside. However, if you want to, you can remove one of them to cook a big piece of meat.
We like the Masterbuilt brand because of the built-in gauge. It stands right above the Masterbuilt logo and tells you what the temperatures are inside. That way, you don’t have to open up the door and let out your smoke.
You’re going to appreciate the analog controls. Just turn the dial to change the temperature settings as needed.
back to menu ↑Advantages of Having an Electric Smoker
We think it’s important to know the reasons for owning the best electric smoker. That way, you can feel good about your purchase and understand that you’re going to use it to smoke racks of ribs and other delicious meats throughout the years.
Temperature Control
Typically, charcoal smokers and gas grills are famous for being difficult to maintain the best temperature. Though gas grills are a little better than gas smokers at temperature control, they’re still not as good as the electric smokers on the market.
Electric smokers have many heat-regulating mechanisms that do all the work for you. It’s easy to monitor the temperature gauge to determine if it’s at the right setting. That way, when smoking different meats, you’ve always got the right setting. Electric smokers also ensure that temperature control is easy, and you get the best results possible.
Temperature control is one of the reasons to consider an electric smoker. That way, you can set it and forget about it. Plus, they often contain a meat probe to help even more.
Safety
Electric smokers are probably one of the safest devices available. You don’t have to worry that the wood is going to burn and jump out to set something on fire. If the temperature goes past its set point because something happened to the thermostat, there are built-in mechanisms that start working to shut off the unit. All of the heat and smoke stay inside the electric smoker, so you don’t have to worry about getting burned or inhaling a ton of smoke, either.
No Supervision Required
Most people don’t want to have to babysit their electric smokers throughout the day. You want to set the temperature on the panel and go about your day. You’re probably going to peek out at it periodically, but you don’t want to sit right by it. The best electric smoker requires no supervision or very little supervision, especially when you’re focused on controlling the temperature. In fact, the built-in thermostat and control panel help with that.
If you don’t want to waste the entire day maintaining the temperature and using a meat thermometer, you want something that is set-and-forget. Most electric smokers are easy to use and assemble, which takes the guesswork out of it. Just put it on the temperature you want or use the time program feature if that’s available. This ensures that you don’t have to keep the eyes on that temperature gauge.
Just remember that smoking might go a little slower because the electric smoker starts at the bottom, and the temperature rises from there. Even so, a longer smoking period gives you the best flavor.
Sometimes, the best electric smokers are digital and have a remote control that makes it easier to heat and smoke with the smoker.
Heat Convection
The best electric smokers are designed to have excellent heat convection and heat retention. That way, the heat spreads throughout the well-insulated cooking area and maintains a constant temperature. Most electric smokers have trouble distributing the heating elements correctly, especially when outside. Therefore, they may only cook a single side of the meat.
Electric smokers offer better heat convection, appropriate heating element wattage, and a temperature control panel with the capabilities to produce the best smoking processes. That way, the meat stays warm and has the smoke flavor you want. Plus, the temperature control panels help you control the temperature much more easily.
back to menu ↑Tips for Using an Electric Smoker for Cooking
The best electric smokers give you the option for smoking meats, cheeses, vegetables, and makes it easy to do so. There’s less guesswork to deal with than with regular smoking practices. Smoking food is a fun hobby, and the whole family (or neighborhood) is sure to enjoy it.
However, there is some trial and error to ensure that you have the right temperature. These helpful tips are going to ensure that you are smoking like the pros with the new electric smoker. Once you’ve chosen the right place to put the electric smoker, consider these tips:
Season the Electric Smoker Before First Use
It is so important to season your electric smoker before you initially use it. This ensures that the oil and dust from the manufacturing process are removed fully. You don’t want that to go into the food because that can make the meat taste different or be toxic.
Seasoning your electric smoker is quite easy. First, you wipe the outside down with a warm, damp cloth. Then, you do the same for the inside. Lightly spray some cooking spray on the inside and all along the cooking area and cooking racks.
Open the top lid and vent completely and set the temperature gauge to 275 degrees Fahrenheit for about three hours. You’re going to put about eight to 10 wood chips into the wood chip tray every 20 minutes or so. Once this is done, and all the chips have gone through the smoker, you can use the electric smoker for smoking meat.
Use a Dual-Probe Thermometer
Many times, the electric smoker you choose comes with a dial-in meat thermometer or thermostat. However, we recommend that you invest in a dual meat probe setup. The internal temperature range can vary significantly in most places within the cooking area, and the temperatures can rise and drop in mere minutes. This means you’ve got to measure the air’s temperature inside with an internal thermometer and place it toward the cooking racks to get an accurate reading. Then, the meat thermometer goes inside the food to track the smoking process over the hours you’re using it.
Less Smoke Is Best
When you smoke food, you’ve got to make sure that you’re not getting too much smoke flow. Ideally, you should see a thin trailing of blue smoke escaping from the vent of the electric smoker throughout the process. It doesn’t take much smoke to penetrate the food and provide it with that delicious smoky flavor you prefer.
Don’t go very heavy with the wood chips when you smoke unless you can add more chips to the tray without opening the door or lid of the electric smoker. For one, it lets all the heat and smoke out of the electric smoker, but it can also cause the meat to soak up too much smoke and become inedible.
Sometimes, it’s best to soak the chips in a water tray before using them, but this depends primarily on personal preference, cooking style, and the capacity of the electric smoker. When you smoke food, make sure the temperature is set correctly within the cooking area.
back to menu ↑How to Clean the Smoker
The first thing to do is ensure that the electric smoker has plenty of time to cool off completely. You don’t want to get bad burns. Check the manufacturer’s direction on how to clean your particular model. It’s often best to remove the cooking racks from inside and wash them in the house. Some of them are dishwasher-safe, which makes cleanup very easy. Also, the wood chip tray should be removable and might be allowed in the dishwasher.
Once all the parts are removed from inside the electric smoker, you can use soapy and warm water and a clean cloth. For tough stains, it’s best to use a little baking soda, too.
Leave the door or lid of the electric smoker open so that it can dry inside. Then, put it all back together so that it’s ready to use the next time.
If you use other tools, such as a meat thermometer, you want to wash it and have it ready to help you smoke the next time.
back to menu ↑Other Smoker Types Available
Though we are focused primarily on the best electric smoker you can buy, there are other types available. Some people like pellet smokers, but they aren’t as popular or as easy to clean as the electric smoker. Still, they often include a temperature gauge and maintain the temperature effectively. Plus, pellet smokers don’t require as much space as the traditional electric smoker. Typically, they come with some of the same features, such as a built-in meat thermometer.
However, the price of the pellet smoker is much higher than the electric smoker options. Therefore, if you’re learning how to smoke meat, it’s generally best to choose an electric smoker.
Charcoal smokers are another option, but they’re not true smokers because coal is used as the fuel source. They can produce a unique taste for the meat, but they aren’t easy to start or easy to clean. It’s often harder to maintain the right temperature, as well. It’s a go-to for many households because it’s been available for longer, and they’re usually larger. However, they don’t seem to have the same effects on the meat as an electric smoker.
back to menu ↑FAQs
How Does an Electric Smoker Work?
Quite simply, electric smokers are quite similar to an insulated oven with some smoke added. Heat is provided through the heating element, which also burns the wood chips to produce more smoke and heat within the smoke chamber. The heat isn’t controlled through the limiting of oxygen flow through vents. Instead, an electric smoker uses digital controls to change the electricity flow into the electric smoker. Once you get it started, the smoker does the work for you, making it an easy process.
Why Is There a Water Tray?
The removable water pan is there to prevent the meat from drying out while you smoke it. You can add fruit juice or water to get different flavors, but you’ve got to clean out the drip tray after each use. There’s often a drain hole toward the bottom of the electric smoker, which should be checked. Plus, the racks should be cleaned and put back in each time. This prevents any bacteria from growing inside the electric smoker.
Generally, it’s easy to clean the water pan.
Why Are There No Smoke Rings on the Meat?
With an insulated electric smoker, it doesn’t produce as much energy as a grill. The wood chips tend to burn at a lower temperature than coal. Typically, when you smoke meat, the compounds in the charcoal help to form the bark or rings. They’re not produced with an electric smoker, so you don’t get the same amount of smoke rings.
However, that doesn’t mean that the meat isn’t going to have the same smoke flavor. An electric smoker can still produce high-quality results and smoke rings on the meat that you can be proud of.
Can You Use an Electric Smoker in the House?
It is not a good idea to use an electric smoker inside your house. They are designed to smoke meat for long periods, and the smoke smell is going to permeate all areas of the house. The smoke and heat it gives off can be damaging to your home, so it’s best to keep the electric smoker outside. Since the ease of use factor is there, you can set it up outside and get it going without having to stay out in inclement weather.
What Wood Chips Are Best for Smoking?
The wood chips you choose for your electric smoker is primarily based on preference, though various meat options have classic pairings. For example, mesquite is ideal for bacon, ham, and pork, while oak works well for brisket. Consider pellets and wood chips that are made specifically for electric smokers. You can use them dry or soak the wood in water, and this is also based on personal preference.
If the smoker has a system that allows you to add extra chips, make sure you smoke with a water bowl. It’s also a good idea to ensure that you don’t have to open the door and let out the smoke.
Can You Use the Smoker for Other Purposes?
Yes, you don’t just have to smoke meat in your electric smoker. It’s very easy to smoke cheese and vegetables, but you can also use the electric smoker without pellets and wood chips for dehydrating and slow cooking the meat. The electric smoker is such a versatile piece of equipment, so you can make various dishes and don’t have to leave it for meat, such as beef, pork butts, baby back ribs, and the like.
back to menu ↑Conclusion
Most electric smoker reviews only focus on the price of the product, but we wanted to provide you with many options and explain each one. That way, you can find out which electric smoker is best for you based on various factors. While price is a concern, it’s not the only thing to think about. You want something with the ease of use you require so that you can smoke a lot of meat.
There are plenty of things you should consider, such as having a digital control panel, enough watts to cook various meat products, and ease of use. One of the best electric smokers includes any from Masterbuilt, though this isn’t the only option. You can find various price points and different features. However, an electric smoker is subjective; everyone is going to have other requirements and preferences.
We looked at many models, and all of the electric smokers we considered are efficient, reliable, well-insulated, and easy to move. They’re easy to use and can smoke all types of meat.
Hopefully, the information provided in this review helps you make the choice for the best smoker for your needs, even though there are countless options.
The smoker models we talked about are all market leaders. They’ve been thoroughly considered. Those who want the best smoker may want to consider Bluetooth connectivity. Some of the smoker models we talked about offer this feature, but that’s not the only thing to focus on when choosing a smoker. Regardless, you should have a pretty good idea of what’s out there and which smoker is the best for you. Happy smoking!