The smoking of various items like meat, fish, and poultry is a rising trend among foodies. But do you know it is one of the oldest cooking techniques? This food preparation method has become increasingly popular due to its deliciousness and simplicity.
If you have decided to get into this versatile smoking world and thinking about where to start? Let me tell you that the first thing you will need is the Smoker and you can’t get anything better than the electric smoker. However, there are many options available with mouth-watering benefits.
If you want to get the maximum benefit and rich taste from your smoke, here the some of the best electric smokers on the market handpicked and tested by our experts.
Table of Contents
- Top 10 best Electric Smokers for Cookouts
- 1. Masterbuilt MB20041220 Digital Charcoal Grill + Smoker
- 2. CUISINART COS-330 Smoker, 30″ Electric
- 3. Char-Broil 17202004 Digital Electric Smoker
- 4. Bradley Smoker BS611 Electric Smoker
- 5. Dyna-Glo 30″ Digital DGU732BDE-D Electric Smoker
- 6. Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker
- 7. Smokin-It Model #2 Electric Smoker
- 8. Smokehouse Products Big Chief Electric Smoker
- 9. Masterbuilt MB20074719 Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker
- 10. LANDMANN MCO 32954 26″ Electric Smoker
- Top Brands of Electric Smokers
- Electric Smokers Buying Guide
- FAQ’s
Top 10 best Electric Smokers for Cookouts
| Product | Cooking Space | Material | Power Source | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masterbuilt MB20041220 Digital Charcoal Grill + Smoker | 1050 sq. in. | Stainless Steel | Charcoal | Check Price |
| CUISINART COS-330 Smoker, 30" Electric | 548 sq. in. | Steel | Electric | Check Price |
| Char-Broil 17202004 Digital Electric Smoker | 725 sq. in. | Stainless Steel | Electric | Check Price |
| Bradley Smoker BS611 Electric Smoker | 572 sq. In. | Stainless Steel & Powder Epoxy Steel | Electric | Check Price |
| Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D 30" Digital Electric Smoker | 732 sq. in. | Steel | Corded Electric | Check Price |
| Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker | 730 sq. in. | Steel | Corded Electric | Check Price |
| Smokin-It Model #2 Electric Smoker | 31 Pounds of Meat | 18 Gauge, 201 Stainless Steel | Electric Burner / Wood Chunks | Check Price |
| Smokehouse Products Big Chief Electric Smoker | 50 Pounds of Meat | Aluminum | Wood | Check Price |
| Masterbuilt MB20074719 Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker | 970 sq. in. | Stainless Steel | Corded Electric | Check Price |
| LANDMANN MCO 32954 26" Electric Smoker | 442 sq. in. | Steel | Corded Electric | Check Price |
1. Masterbuilt MB20041220 Digital Charcoal Grill + Smoker
The Gravity Series of Masterbuilt is the best out there as it combines a digital charcoal grill and smoker. This means you can use it for many purposes, such as smoking, grilling, searing, baking, roasting, and so much more.
Furthermore, this Masterbuilt 20012220 grill and smoker is effortless to use. It allows you to quickly set the precise temperature via its digital control panel, or you can also do that with your smart device. The unit also features a DigitalFan feature to maintain the optimal cooking temperature.
But the best feature of this grill and electric smoker is its versatility. The unit is safe to use as a direct flame grill, or you can also use it on a wood-fired oven. And it can resist high temperatures up to 700-degrees Fahrenheit!
This versatility and user-friendly control make cooking a breeze for you. Besides, the unit also features the exclusive gravity-fed delivery system that ensures that the charcoal flames or wood ships get the right amount of oxygen to burn for up to 16 hours. Plus, reloading the hopper chute is extremely easy.
Moreover, the unit also features Wi-Fi connectivity that allows you to monitor and modify various settings of this Masterbuilt Gravity Series electric smoker without even touching it or without sitting around it all day.
Lastly, this electric smoker comes with folding racks that are simple to store and offers you some extra cooking space, whereas its stainless steel front panel is highly durable.
Racks are foldable and highly durable.
No need to remove charcoals after each use.
It can comfortably accommodate 16lbs. of briquettes.
Check Price and Rating on Amazon
2. CUISINART COS-330 Smoker, 30″ Electric
Most of us know Cuisinart for their high-quality cookware, but they also offer the best electric smokers. Cuisinart’s range of smokers is impressive, affordable, and effortless to use. And, our recommendation for all of our readers is the budget-friendly COS-330, 30-inches electric smoker.
This analog electric smoker offers you plenty of cooking (up to 548 square inches), lots of power, and a user-friendly interface that even beginners can use without any issue. The first thing that impressed us was its high-quality construction, especially when we considered its price point. The unit is well-designed and features a tight fit to trap maximum heat and smoke and offers you juicer results every time.
Furthermore, it comes with three removable and robust racks that you can adjust and place as per your usage and preferences. Besides, it also features a powerful heating element that operates at 1,500 watts and gives you plenty of power and thorough heat inside the cooking chamber.
Moreover, the unit is energy efficient and retains the heat exceptionally well. It can easily maintain temperatures between 100 and 400 degrees F.
Lastly, the unit also includes removable water and wood trays to deliver the best results, while the quality construction ensures that it will serve you for a long time. It’s hard to get the same performance and quality in this affordable price range.
Backed by three warranties from makers.
It can accommodate almost all wood chips types.
Highly versatile and budget-friendly electric smoker.
Check Price and Rating on Amazon
3. Char-Broil 17202004 Digital Electric Smoker
We all prefer using the wireless meat thermometers as they eliminate the need for monitoring but personally, I feel something special when I see my meat turning brown, and this Char-Broil Deluxe 17202004 electric smoker allows you to get this feel without opening the door.
Furthermore, the unit comes powered by a powerful 750-watt heating element, along with four sturdy cooking racks, and it offers you 725 square inches of cooking space. In simple it is more than enough for a medium-sized cut on the racks, some ribs, and you can also load it up with sausages. I found it ideal for family leftovers and small gatherings.
Besides, it is insulated that boosts its overall efficiency, and enables you to use it all year round. Moreover, it comes with a large stainless steel latch that perfectly locks in the heat by forming a tight seal.
Unlike the other electric smokers, you cannot add more wood chips to this unit without opening the door. But, the large wood chip container can accommodate four cups and works for up to 7 hours of smoking.
In addition to that, the unit has a few extras to make things more convenient.
Firstly, you will find a detachable temperature probe that allows for simple and quick monitoring of one cut of meat. Lastly, it’s the deluxe version; hence you can use it remotely and adjust or monitor the internal temperature without any problem.
Sturdy wheels make this unit highly portable.
Comes with four sturdy racks.
Check Price and Rating on Amazon
4. Bradley Smoker BS611 Electric Smoker
As per consumer reports and customer reviews, the biggest issue is forming a perfect smoky environment inside an electric smoker. It is tricky and needs patience and practice. But, this Bradley electric smoker can create a seamless smoky environment for you in no time.
The BS611 electric smoker’s working mechanism is different from the other electric smokers. Instead of placing and burning a tray of wood chips over the heating element, this unit features a separate smoke box that works with its powerful heating element.
In this way, you will be in full control over the cooking temperature and allows you to control smoke levels while maintaining the cleanest, most consistent smoke that delivers the delicious flavor and best taste.
Like other Bradley Smokers, this BS611 electric smoker also burns Natural Wood Smoking Bisquettes. Just plug in the smoker, set the desired cooking temperature, and load the bisquettes into the dedicated smoking box, and it will serve you for up to nine hours.
Besides, it also has a wireless meat thermometer that allows for quick and easy monitoring so that you can see your cooking status sitting inside your house.
Lastly, this BS611 electric smoker comes nicely insulated for reliable performance even in the harshest weather condition. And, its stainless steel interior makes the unit highly durable.
Simple to use and ideal for handicapped users.
Features sealed door and plenty of vents.
Check Price and Rating on Amazon
5. Dyna-Glo 30″ Digital DGU732BDE-D Electric Smoker
If you are looking for an electric smoker with plenty of cooking space, then you must consider this Dyna-Glo 30-inch digital smoker. Moreover, the unit is one of the finest on the market, and as per consumer reports, it is the perfect alternative to a Masterbuilt electric smoker.
This large-sized electric smoker by Dyna-Glo comes with a powerful and well-sized 800 watts heating element and offers you up to 730 square inches of cooking space which is more than enough for medium and large gatherings.
In simple words, you can put four whole-size chickens, pork butts, piles of ribs, or plenty of sausages, along with wings and fish.
Another feature that makes it stand above the others is the insulation level. The unit comes with an insulated firebox and a perfectly sealed door that efficiently traps the heat. Besides, you will also find a dual latch system that further enhances its sealing properties.
You will love its simple controls and side-access wood chip loader. Using the unit is a breeze even for beginners, while assembling it also effortless.
Lastly, it comes with a removable internal drip tray that makes cleaning quick and easy. Overall, the smoker is well-designed, affordable, and offers delicious meals every time you use it. Hence if you were looking for a Masterbuilt alternative, this is the choice for you.
Effortless to operate.
Best for beginners.
Affordable than the others.
Check Price and Rating on Amazon
6. Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker
Next on the list comes the top-rated MB20071117 electric smoker by the Masterbuilt. The unit is among the best electric smoker on the market and due to good reasons.
The unit has everything you will need for mouthwatering results that too, at a killer price. The best, however, is its full body insulation that provides excellent heat retention and flawless performance even in extremely cool conditions.
Moreover, it comes with an appropriately sized and powerful heating element along with plenty of inner cooking space. At the same time, its user-friendly digital control panel allows for precise control and quick monitoring.
To be precise, you will get 711 square inches of inner cooking space along with four removable racks. In simple words, space is enough for four chickens, pork butts, or you can smoke rib racks at the same time. You can even smoke a full-size turkey or two just by removing the racks.
Another thing that we loved in this versatile electric smoker by Masterbuilt is its side-loading wood chip port. It allows you to add more woods/smoke without opening it and without letting the heat out. Apart from it, the unit also features a Slow Smoker Attachment that hooks up to its side port and automatically adds wood chips into it for 6 hours.
Lastly, the unit is also the best for cold smoking, and keep in mind that it is the most affordable one on the market.
Allows you to add chips without opening the door.
Excellent temperature controls.
Check Price and Rating on Amazon
7. Smokin-It Model #2 Electric Smoker
Many people complain that electric smokers deliver inappropriate smoke, but that’s not the case with this Smokin-It Model 2 electric smoker. The unit is popular for juicier results, and it smokes as it should be.
Furthermore, the unit features a highly durable and heavy gauge stainless steel body along with a double latch door system to trap the smoke and heat. Apart from it, the smoker is fully insulated and perfect to use in cold conditions. Hence it is your safest bet if you are planning a fancy, smoked Christmas feast.
Overall, the unit is compact and easy to carry. In fact, you can also take it with you on your trips. for smooth and secure mobility, it comes with four heavy-duty casters, strong and heat resistant side handles, and a long 12-foot long power cable located at the smoker’s backside.
In addition to that, it has four steel racks and plenty of inner cooking space. You can also put the additional rack in it, but you need to buy it separately. To be precise, it can comfortably accommodate 31 pounds of meat or seafood. So, it is also suitable for large families.
Lastly, like other Smokin-It electric smokers, this one also comes with hickory wood chips, so you smoke your favorite items as soon as it arrives. The drip pan is well-placed and does a wonderful job when it comes to keeping things mess-free.
Highly portable electric smoker.
800-watts heating element is more than enough for everyday uses.
Check Price and Rating on Amazon
8. Smokehouse Products Big Chief Electric Smoker
Next on the list is the fan-favorite electric smoker by Smokehouse. This Big Chief can be the perfect addition to any home due to its versatility. You can use it for salmon or a batch of elk, or you can prepare your favorite sausage recipes that too at perfection.
The Smokehouse Big Chief Electric Smoker is the best to smoke fish as it features a single temperature setting (165 degrees F). The functionality is basic, but the results will be awesome.
Furthermore, the unit is simple to use due to limited options and controls and the best smoker for beginners. Just add woods through the front gate, switch it on and enjoy! Moreover, you will love its tender and soft cooking on low heat.
It might not be the most powerful out there, but its consistency and ability to generate smoke consistently are matchless.
These features also prevent your food items from overheating and make them the safest for delicate items. The ventilation is adequate while the unit generates and circulates the smoke perfectly to deliver the best results with maximum flavor.
Lastly, it is well-suited for heavy items such as brisket, ribs, etc., but you can’t get better than this when it comes to seafood items. Overall, this Smokehouse Big Chief is ideal for small families, and you can cook up to 50lbs of meat at a time.
Effectively maintains inner temperatures.
Affordable.
Durable construction.
Check Price and Rating on Amazon
9. Masterbuilt MB20074719 Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker
If you like to smoke with your phone, then this Masterbuilt MB20074719 is simply the best choice for you as it includes seamless Bluetooth connectivity.
You will find many electric smokers with Bluetooth functionality, but not all are the same. In fact, most of them don’t work as they should. But, that’s not the case with this Masterbuilt MB20074719, as it holds a reliable connection so that you can switch it on/off, adjust the temperature and monitor your cooking progress remotely.
Besides, you will also find an internal meat probe that ensures that your meat is cooked/smoked perfectly every single time.
Furthermore, like other Masterbuilt electric smokers, this one also features a side-loading wood chip port that allows you to create that perfect smoky environment without opening the door.
And if you want to take your smoking experience to a whole new level, just grab a Slow Smoker attachment and enjoy the hands-off Bluetooth smoking.
The Slow Smoker attachment will add wood chips into the smoker for nine hours for you. And, if you are not satisfied with that, it doubles as a cold smoker as well.
Lastly, the well-insulated sides, a powerful and well-sized heating element, and plenty of cooking space make this Masterbuilt MB20074719 a complete, modern-day solution for all smoking lovers.
Includes side wood chip adding system.
Comes with a powerful 800-watts heating element.
Check Price and Rating on Amazon
10. LANDMANN MCO 32954 26″ Electric Smoker
Regardless of your cooking and smoking abilities, this Landmann’s MCO 26″ Electric Smoker is ideal for preparing delicious smoked food items in the simplest manner. Plus, this smoker is also perfect if you have limited space as it features a compact and space-saving design.
Furthermore, this electric smoker is a complete solution for your smoking activities. This is because it comes with a tray for wood chips box, a dedicated water pan, and a separate grease pan.
Another feature that you will definitely admire in this smoker is its double-wall door. The see-through window allows for quick monitoring and without any hassle. Furthermore, the unit is highly portable as well. Plus, its sturdy side handles and sturdy casters will enable you to move and use it anywhere you want without any problem.
As for the cooking space, it offers 443 square inches; hence, you can use it to prepare food in large quantities. Moreover, it comes with an external temperature controller that enables you to use the unit at your desired and precise temperatures.
Lastly, the smoker’s heating capacity is between 100 degrees to 260 degrees Fahrenheit which is more than enough for most smoking recipes. The heating element is reliable, while the unit comes with chrome-plated steel grates that you can remove for easy and thorough cleaning.
Comes with casters and adjustable feet.
Removable temperature controller.
Check Price and Rating on Amazon
Read more: Best Barbecue Grills
Top Brands of Electric Smokers
Masterbuilt Electric Smokers
Masterbuilt is the top-rated brand and for several good reasons. The Masterbuilt electric smokers are well-designed and feature high-quality materials that will serve you for many, many years even if you use them daily. Plus, their smokers are the most energy-efficient and feature excellent insulation properties. Capacity is also good, plus you have plenty of options in terms of sizing and cooking space.
Bradley Electric Smoker
The principle behind excellent smoke flavor is the same, control the temperature and prevent the wood chips from turning into the ashes, and you will get that delicious flavor in the meat. For this purpose, you can completely rely on the Bradley electric smokers.
Bradley electric smokers feature these principles and give you the best smoke flavor. Plus, you cannot ignore the convenience of automatic feeding of the bisquettes, and in some models, it operates for up to eight hours!
Char-Broil Electric Smokers
Serving since 1948, Char-Broil is a brand that is known for its high-quality outdoor cooking tools and accessories. And their electric smokers are no different. The first and the foremost benefit of using the Char-Broil electric smokers is that they are simplest to use and some of their smokers are portable as well.
You can use Char-Broil electric smoker on your lawn, or you can carry it on your trip if you want to get that tender and Smokey taste.
Electric Smokers Buying Guide
Electric smokers are not that expensive, but that doesn’t mean you should overlook their features and other vital points when buying them. Making a conscious choice is always essential. In our opinion, you must consider these things when buying the best electric smoker:
Temperature Adjustment
Temperature control features in an electric smoker are useful and somewhat necessary. All best electric smokers come with certain features that you can use to control temperatures, such as a rheostat or thermostat. These features are useful when it comes to an accurate meat temperature, and they can make or break your meal’s taste. Hence look out for those.
Caveats
In simple words, the caveats are the ventilation systems in the electric smoker’s combustion chamber that comes in handy when you want to release the heat and smoke. Furthermore, it also helps maintain a stable smoker temperature and prevents your food items from burning or char. As a result, you will get nothing but a well-smoked and juicier product.
Heat Settings and Structure
When you are out to buy a new electric smoker, remember to check its heat levels and structure. In simple words, you must know how the heat travels inside the smoker when you are using it. More heat sources mean short cooking times, but only if you know how to use it correctly, or else you will get burnt and overcooked meat.
Layer Structure
Here, the layer structure states the rack’s shape and placement inside the smoker. You will find different shapes of smokers on the market; some will be vertical, while some will be horizontal.
Moreover, some electric smokers come with durable stainless steel racks, and some have lightweight chrome-plated racks that are removable. However, the orientation and placement of the frames are crucial whether you opt for the vertical or horizontal smoker.
Adding Woodchips or Charcoal
When you are after the best electric smoker, ensure that it features a removable tray. This will help you in burning wood chips or coal. This might look a bit counter-intuitive, but if you can use charcoal or wood pellets with your smoker, it will help you create a seamless smoky environment, and it will provide you much better taste than the traditional BBQ!
FAQ’s
Do I Need to Season my New Electric Smoker?
Yes, you should season your new electric smoker before using it. All manufacturers recommend seasoning your electric smokers before the first use as it helps to burn off oils and other similar contaminants. If you don’t know how to season your electric smoker, we recommend you check out the product manual for this purpose.
Is it safe to use an extension cord with my electric smoker?
You can use an extension cord with most electric smokers but ensure that the cord is reliable and safe for outdoor uses. In this regard, we will recommend you to read the owner’s manual to confirm whether it is safe to use with your electric smoker or not.
What types of wood chips do you recommend using with my electric smoker?
You can use almost all types of wood chips in the electric smoker as per your needs and preferences. Some common types of wood chips that are safe to use with an electric smoker include Cedar, hickory, maple, cherry, and plum. Each of these offers a different taste to your meat, and you can experiment to determine which type suits you the most.
Can I Use an Electric Smoker Inside the house?
No, you cannot as it is a ‘smoker,’ and no one likes to deal with the smoke inside the house. Plus, it can be harmful to you. However, if you still want to use an electric smoker inside your home, we will advise you first to install a commercial-grade extractor to remove the smoke. Only then you can use it inside.
How hot can Electric Smokers Get?
Most electric smokers heat up to 275 F, while some models can heat up to as high as 350 F. Generally speaking, electric smokers get heated between 200F and 275 F. But it depends on the particular model that you have.
How to Use Wood Chips in Electric Smokers?
You use wood chips with almost all electric smokers to get that Smokey taste you desire. For your convenience, here is how to use wood chips with electric smokers:
- First, add wood chips to the tray, or you can buy a pellet or smoker Box.
- Next, preheat the smoker.
- Now, pour some water and flavor into the water bowl.
- It’s time to put the marinated meats inside.
- Now, add more wood chips to the smoker.
- Then, let it cool down a bit and add the wood chips promptly if needed.
