Best Electric Smokers 2024
Top Picks for Delicious BBQ
Discover > BBQ at Home > Best Electric Smokers: Top Picks for Delicious BBQ
Are you in the market for a top-tier electric smoker? If so, you’ve come to the right place!
Electric smokers are becoming increasingly popular and can be an excellent way to add a delicious smoky taste to your food.
In this guide, we'll go over all of the features that make up an electric smoker, as well as some tips on how to get the most out of your new electric smoker too.
Traditional smokers need you to monitor and ensure that the temperatures stay in the optimal cooking range, while with electric smokers, you can simply set it up and forget about it until your food is ready.
When thinking about the best electric smokers, there are a few key features to keep in mind. A bottom wood pellets and chip tray is essential for any smoker, as it allows you to add wood pellets and add wood chips directly into the smoker without having to take off the lid.
Additionally, many models will have temperature control so you can adjust the internal temperature of the smoker to match your desired cooking temperature.
For those who maintain a preference for the traditional smoker, there are electric models available that offer both gas and charcoal heat sources.
Here are some of the many electric smokers available on the market today. The Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker is one of the most popular electric smokers on the market. It features four adjustable cooking racks and a wood chip tray to add smoke flavors.
Additionally, this smoker has an easy-to-read digital display which makes it simple to adjust temperature settings and monitor your food's progress.
Another excellent option is the Masterbuilt Electric Digital Smoker with a window. This model has four chrome-plated stainless steel cooking racks, a wood chip tray and an electric heating element to provide even heat distribution. It also features a window for easy viewing of the food without having to open the smoker door.
The Broil King Signet 320 is another excellent electric smoker that offers up to 635 square inches of full cooking surface space. It also has a large wood chip tray, cold smoking capabilities, and an easy-to-read LCD that makes it simple to set the temperature and smoke levels.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced BBQ smoker, there are plenty of electric smokers out there to suit your needs. No matter which electric smoker you choose, it's important to remember that most electric smokers need proper maintenance and care is key for getting the best results.
Regularly clean your smoker after use and make sure to check its temperature levels whenever you're cooking. With a bit of dedication and the right electric smoker, you can make delicious BBQ with ease.
But note that The Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker, Masterbuilt Electric Digital Smoker and Broil King Signet 320 are just some examples of excellent electric smokers. There are many other great models available, so be sure to do your research and find an option that fits your needs and budget.
Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a fledgling foodie, selecting the perfect electric smoker to complement your culinary adventures can be a challenging endeavor.
Perhaps you're yearning to amplify your barbecue game, infuse a smoky depth into your home-cooked meals, or simply unlock a new world of succulent, smoky flavors. (What wine goes well with smoky flavors?)
Regardless of your motive, our meticulous analysis and carefully curated top picks provide a comprehensive guide designed to assist you in this quest.
In our selection process, we've considered a range of factors including ease of use, temperature control, size, and durability, ensuring that you're equipped with an electric smoker that perfectly suits your needs and preferences.
Embark on a sumptuous journey of flavor and taste sensations, and let the rich, smoky aromas permeate your culinary creations.
Wood Chips
Wood chips are an important aspect of electric smokers. They help to create the smoky flavor that is desired when using an electric smoker.
The wood chips work by heating up and releasing smoke when heated by the electric smoker's heating element. This process allows for a cold-smoking method, which is preferred by many people when barbecuing or smoking meats and other food items.
Digital electric smokers are equipped with a digital thermostat which allows the user to control the temperature and cooking process, as well as monitor the amount of wood chips used. This provides an additional level of accuracy and consistency that manual electric smokers work cannot duplicate.
By using wood chips in electric smokers, users can ensure that their foods have a perfect balance of smoky flavor without being too salty or dry. Electric wood smokers are also great for those who don't have the time to monitor and adjust manual smokers. The wood chips provide an extra layer of flavor that can make any barbecue a success.
Wood chips are essential for electric smokers so it's important to choose chips that are compatible with your smoker. Different types of wood will impart different flavors and there are many types of wood chips available on the market.
In the electric smoker industry, it's advisable to select models constructed with resilient materials such as stainless steel or porcelain-coated, as these can better resist the elements and the test of time.
Additionally, be sure to keep your wood chip tray clean and filled with fresh chips often to ensure the highest quality smoke possible.
With the right combination of woods and a little practice, electric smokers can create delicious, smoky flavors that will impress your friends and family.
Essentials for Electric Smokers
Electric smokers have become a staple for those who love the rich, hearty flavor that smoke brings to food due to their convenience and user-friendly nature. To ensure a successful smoking session, there are several essential items and considerations you must bear in mind.
First and foremost, investing in a high-quality electric smoker is crucial. This is the foundation of your smoking setup and will directly affect the quality of your results. A reliable, well-constructed smoker can provide consistent temperature control and evenly distribute smoke, ensuring your food is perfectly cooked every time.
A key component in smoking is the choice of wood chips. Different wood types impart unique flavors to your food, essentially acting as a seasoning.
For example, applewood is a popular choice for poultry, imbuing the meat with a sweet, fruity smokiness, whereas hickory, with its strong, robust flavor, is perfectly suited for pork. Having a variety of wood chips at your disposal allows you to experiment and find the perfect match for different types of meat.
Another essential tool for any smoking enthusiast is a meat thermometer. This simple device ensures that your meat reaches the correct internal temperature, safeguarding against undercooking or overcooking. It takes the guesswork out of smoking, letting you know exactly when your food is cooked to perfection.
Additionally, a selection of spices and marinades can significantly enhance the flavor of your meat. Marinades can tenderize and infuse your meat with flavor, while dry rubs and spices form a delicious crust on the exterior. Patience and time are key when using an electric smoker to achieve the best results.
Moreover, incorporating a few simple techniques can elevate your results exponentially. For example, brining—soaking your meat in a mixture of salt and water—can add moisture and flavor to your proteins, ensuring they stay juicy even after hours of smoking.
Also, playing around with smoking temperatures can create different taste profiles; low-temperature smoking is ideal for fish or vegetables, preserving their delicate flavors, while higher temperatures create a wonderful, charred exterior on pork or beef.
Finally, the beauty of smoking lies in experimenting. Trying out different recipes, mixing up wood chips, tweaking cooking times, and temperatures can lead you to discover your unique combo that will impress your friends and family.
With practice and creativity, you'll be producing smoked delicacies that rival those of professionals in no time!
Best Electric Smoker
We've researched and tested numerous other electric smokers to provide you with the top picks for the best electric smokers.
These electric smokers are ideal for all your smoking needs, whether you're looking for a tried-and-true traditional smoker or want to try something new like a pellet smoker.
With features such as on and off controls, four adjustable racks, and even an easy-to-read digital display, these electric smokers are sure to be a hit. Get ready to enjoy delicious and perfectly smoked dishes with these exceptional electric smokers.
For those looking for something different than an electric smoker, there are also gas smokers available that provide the same great smoking experience without needing to burn charcoal.
We've also included answers to commonly asked electric smoker FAQs, so you can be sure that your new smoker will meet all of your needs.
No matter what type of smoker you choose, we know that you'll love the delicious flavors and juicy meals that come from these top picks for the best electric smokers.
So fire up your grill and get smoking!
Masterbuilt MB20070421 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker
The Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker is a fantastic choice for both beginners and pros who want a user-friendly and efficient smoking experience.
Pros
Easy-to-use digital controls
Patented side wood chip loader
Ample cooking space
Cons
Temperature control may fluctuate
Possible dents during delivery
Lower temperature limit
We were excited to try out the Masterbuilt Electric Smoker, and it didn't disappoint. As both beginners and regular smokers, we found setting up the device and preparing our food to be a breeze.
The digital controls made it simple to adjust both the cooking temperature and time, and with 711 sq. in. of space and four chrome-coated racks, we could easily smoke enough food for our entire family.
What we appreciated the most was the patented side wood chip loader that allowed us to experiment with flavors without constantly opening the smoker door.
This innovative feature helped us maintain consistent temperature and moisture, which contributed to the smoky and delicious flavors of our meats and vegetables.
One thing to be mindful of is the temperature control which may fluctuate slightly during the process. Additionally, some users have reported receiving the product with dents upon delivery. Although this didn't affect the performance, it's important to inspect your product before usage.
Lastly, for those looking for lower smoking temperatures, the minimum limit with this smoker is 180°F. While this might be an issue for specific food items, it performed flawlessly for our homemade sausages and other smoked dishes.
Overall, we highly recommend the Masterbuilt MB20070421 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker for its user-friendly design and consistent performance. Its innovative features and ample cooking space make it a reliable companion to help you create mouthwatering smoked dishes for any occasion.
Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker, 30" Black 30" Smoker
The Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker is a versatile choice for both beginners and experienced smokers looking for consistent, delicious results.
Pros
Easy-to-use digital panel controls
Patented side wood chip loading system
Insulated body for even, consistent smoking
Cons
Electronics could be more durable
The display can be difficult to read in certain lighting
Runs slightly hotter than the set temperature
This Masterbuilt Electric Smoker offers everything you need to create perfectly smoked meats (What wine goes well with smoked meats?) and more. The digital panel controls make it incredibly user-friendly, allowing you to set the temperature and time with ease.
We recently tried smoking a couple of whole chickens and a rack of ribs, and the results were mouthwateringly delicious.
One feature we particularly appreciated during our cooking session was the patented side wood chip loading system.
This practical design lets you add wood chips to the cold smoker for that smoky flavor without having to open the door, thereby retaining heat and maintaining consistent cooking temperatures inside the cold smoker itself.
Additionally, the insulated body of the smoker helps maintain an even temperature, providing the perfect environment for smoking food to perfection.
However, there are a few drawbacks we encountered. The electronics on the Masterbuilt Electric Smoker could be more durable, as some users have reported issues with the controller malfunctioning after a handful of uses.
Furthermore, the display can be challenging to read in certain lighting conditions.
We also noticed that the actual cooking temperature in the smoker ran slightly hotter than the set temperature, but we were able to adapt and adjust accordingly.
Overall, the Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced wood smokers, looking for a hassle-free, easy-to-use digital electric smoker, that produces delectable results.
With its user-friendly features, patented wood chip loading system, and insulated body, this smoker is a valuable addition to any backyard or patio.
Americana 2 in 1 Electric Water Smoker
The Americana 2 in 1 Electric Water Smoker offers a versatile and user-friendly experience for both smoking and grilling, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
Pros
Excellent for slow-cooking with its large 5.5-quart water pan on a 351 square inches cooking space
User-friendly with heat-resistant handles, easy-to-use temperature controls, and sliding access doors
Easily transforms into a portable electric grill for various cooking options
Cons
Some customers experienced issues relating to circuit breakers and heating
Vague instructions regarding heat settings and general use
Not entirely made with American parts, which may be a significant factor for some buyers
Our first impression of the Americana 2 in 1 Electric Water Smoker was how versatile and simple it appeared. The 351 square inches of cooking space was perfect for smoking a variety of meats.
The two chrome-plated cooking grids provided multiple cooking levels while the built-in temperature gauge made it easy for us to monitor the smoker.
We appreciated the 5.5-quart water pan capacity, which allowed the smoker to cook food for extended periods without the need for constant monitoring.
The water and wood chips were easy to replenish thanks to the sliding access doors, while the heat-resistant wooden handles ensured safe and easy handling during cooking.
When it came to the actual process of cooking, we were impressed by the flavors and juiciness of the smoked food. The slow-cooking process, combined with the electric charcoal grill option, gave us a delightful culinary experience.
However, we did have some concerns with the Americana 2 in 1 Electric Water Smoker. The instructions were not as clear as we would have hoped, particularly regarding heat settings.
Additionally, some customers experienced issues with the heating element, which may affect the product's longevity.
Although there are some concerns, its ease of use and unique features make it a strong choice for those looking to explore the world of smoking and grilling.
The Americana 2 in 1 Electric Water Smoker proves to be a versatile and beginner-friendly electric charcoal smoker.
Cuisinart COS-330 Vertical Electric Smoker, 30"
The Cuisinart COS-330 is a reliable and user-friendly electric smoker perfect for those new to smoking or looking for convenience.
Pros
Spacious 548 sq. inches cooking space
Three removable, dishwasher-safe smoking shelves
Built-in, easy-to-read thermometer
Cons
Temperature control can be tricky
Heat retention might be affected by water pan use
Igniter may not work upon assembly
We recently tried out the Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker and were impressed with its simplicity and performance.
The 548 square inches of cooking surface space, combined with the three removable smoking shelves, make it easy to smoke various meats and vegetables at once. The vertical design is perfect for patios and outdoor kitchens, saving valuable space.
The built-in thermometer on the front door allows for easy monitoring of the internal temperature, ensuring our food was cooked just right. We found the electric smoker to be user-friendly, and its lightweight construction made it simple to move and store when not in use.
However, we did encounter a few minor drawbacks. Maintaining a consistent temperature could be challenging at times, especially if we used the water pan.
Additionally, the spark igniter did not work upon assembly, but a quick fix with a BBQ lighter had us up and smoking in no time.
Overall, the Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker is a fantastic option for those looking to dive into the world of smoking foods.
Its user-friendly design, combined with its spacious interior, makes it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned smokers alike.
Bradley Smoker 6-Rack Outdoor Electric Smoker
This smoker is a fantastic choice for those wanting an efficient and user-friendly electric smoker with a large capacity to cook for friends and family.
Pros
Large capacity with 6 cooking racks
Up to 9 hours of continuous smoke
Easy-to-clean stainless steel interior
Cons
Expensive smoking bisquettes
Might struggle to reach high temperatures
The ambient temperature might not be very accurate
We found our experience with the Bradley Smoker 6-Rack Outdoor Electric Smoker to be effortless, and enjoyable, and most importantly, it resulted in delectable smoked dishes.
The large capacity of this smoker is perfect when cooking for a crowd, as it can accommodate six racks at once. We cooked everything from turkey to ribs without any trouble, and the food turned out incredible!
One of the key features of this smoker is its 9-hour continuous smoke time, making it ideal for those who don't want to spend their entire day tending to a fire.
The double-wall insulation ensures that the cooking chamber of the smoker is energy-efficient, so we only had to fill it once with wood chips and had plenty of smoke for the whole cooking process.
The stainless steel interior of this smoker is not only sleek but also easy to clean, a feature that we truly appreciate. The integrated smoke diffuser system ensures that the smoke flows evenly throughout the cooking chambers for that perfect flavor.
However, there are some downsides to this smoker. We found the smoking briquettes to be quite pricey, so keep that in mind if you're planning to use this smoker frequently.
Additionally, the smoker might struggle to reach higher temperatures, which could be a concern for some users. Finally, the smoker features ambient temperature readings that might not be very accurate, so consider using a separate thermometer to monitor it.
Overall, we're delighted with the Bradley Smoker 6-Rack Outdoor Electric Smoker. Its combination of excellent performance, ease of use, and taste-enhancing features are perfect for those looking to impress their guests with deliciously smoked dishes.
Buying Guide
When embarking on the quest to find the best electric smoker, several key factors must be taken into account.
First and foremost, consider the overall capacity of the smoker. Depending on your needs, whether it's for family dinners or larger gatherings, the smoker's size can greatly impact its suitability.
Secondly, the temperature control system is of paramount importance. A smoker with reliable, precise temperature control allows for consistent, worry-free cooking.
Thirdly, construction quality is crucial for long-term durability, so it's worth investing in a smoker made from high-quality, heat-retaining materials.
Lastly, look for added features like digital controls or integrated meat probes that can make your smoking experience more convenient and enjoyable.
By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure you choose an electric smoker that delivers the perfectly smoked meat for a delectable feast.
Size and Capacity
In the pursuit of selecting the right electric smoker, it is of paramount importance to consider our unique cooking needs as the size and capacity of the smoker directly tie into this. For those of us who typically cook for a small family, or host intimate gatherings, a compact model would be an ideal fit.
The advantages of these smaller smokers are manifold - they're typically easier to handle and maneuver around, and require less power, making them significantly more energy-efficient. This could translate into savings on our electricity bills in the long run.
On the flip side, if you frequently find yourself hosting large parties or family reunions, a smoker with a larger capacity may be more appropriate. Larger models are designed to accommodate a greater quantity of food at once, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their meal together and that the food is served at its optimal temperature, enhancing the overall dining experience.
However, we mustn't forget to factor in the spatial constraints. While larger smokers can certainly handle more food, they inevitably require more space in our patio, backyard, or kitchen. Therefore, it's crucial to find a balance between our cooking needs and the space we have available.
The selection of the best electric smoker thus becomes a game of balancing the size and capacity of the equipment with our cooking needs and the space constraints of our home. This ensures we choose a smoker that best meets our needs, aligns with our lifestyle, and fits comfortably within our living space.
Temperature Range and Control
A smoker with a wide temperature range, approximately 100°F to 275°F, facilitates versatility in cooking.
This breadth allows one to perfectly cook and smoke a variety of foods, from delicate fish to robust cuts of beef, each requiring a specific temperature for optimal results. Thus, having precise control over the temperature gauge becomes crucial.
A digital control panel and thermostat are integral features. The digital control panel offers ease of use, allowing one to effortlessly set the desired temperature with accuracy.
The thermostat, on the other hand, ensures that the smoker maintains the set temperature throughout the cooking duration, eliminating the need for constant monitoring and adjustment.
The heating element is another essential factor to consider. It should pack sufficient wattage to reach the set temperature swiftly, ensuring that the process of cooking or smoking begins promptly. This also reduces preheating time and energy consumption.
Lastly, the construction and insulation of the smoker play a vital role in its performance. A well-constructed and insulated smoker retains heat effectively, preventing any fluctuation in temperature.
It helps maintain the consistent temperature required for cooking, especially for prolonged durations. Indeed, a smoker that checks all these boxes is an indispensable tool for any barbecue enthusiast.
The build quality and insulation of an electric smoker substantially impact its performance. We should opt for electric smokers made from durable materials, like porcelain-coated or stainless steel, to withstand outdoor conditions and time.
Price
When it comes to planning a purchase, setting a budget is a critical first step. This budget acts as a financial roadmap, guiding you toward sound financial decisions by helping you avoid overspending and impulsive purchases.
However, while sticking to a budget is important, it's also crucial to recognize the value of quality and durability in the products you purchase. High-quality items may come with a higher upfront cost, but they often prove to be more cost-effective in the long run.
This is because products that are built to last are resilient against wear and tear, which means they will require less frequent replacements compared to cheaper alternatives.
Over time, the expense saved on replacements can outweigh the initial investment made on a high-quality item. Therefore, when planning a purchase, it's vital not just to focus on staying within budget but also to consider the balance between cost and quality.
Weighing these factors can lead you to make more beneficial and meaningful investment decisions, which pay off in the long term.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
When it comes to electric smokers, user-friendliness is key. We all know the joy of operating an appliance that is intuitive and efficient.
For electric smokers, features such as simple digital controls are a major plus. These controls should be easy to manipulate, offering precise temperature and smoke settings to create the perfect smoking environment for your food.
Another immensely practical feature is a transparent viewing window. This allows us to monitor the cooking progress without having to constantly open the door, thus preserving the heat and smoke inside.
Furthermore, the smoker should be equipped with handy hooks and racks. These provide the ability to hang meat or place it flat, depending on the type of food and our personal preference.
The ease of cleaning and maintenance is another factor we must consider when choosing our electric smoker. Brands that incorporate removable parts such as racks, a drip tray, and the drip pan, are much preferable.
This not only simplifies the cleaning process but also extends the life of the appliance. So, as we navigate through the broad market of electric smokers, keeping these essential features in mind will guide us to a fantastic model.
This will not only be easy to use and maintain but will also enable us to tap into our culinary passions, letting us produce deliciously smoked meals to share with friends and family.
Conclusion
The best electric smoker for you will depend on your individual needs and wants.
Selecting the right electric smoker requires careful consideration of numerous features. Factors such as size, the type of heating element, cooking racks, temperature range, digital control panel, internal temperature gauge, stainless steel construction, drip pans, and other features play a pivotal role in influencing your decision. Each of these factors adds a unique value to the functionality and convenience of the new electric smoker, thereby making every barbecue session a hassle-free and delectable experience.
The smoker's size is one of the first aspects you need to contemplate. The size directly influences the quantity of food you can smoke at one time, making it a crucial factor if you frequently host large gatherings or have a big family. It also determines how much space the smoker will occupy in your backyard or patio. Hence, it's essential to select a size that suits your needs and space constraints.
The heating element is another significant feature to consider. Electric smokers typically use either an open coil or an enclosed element. The open coil provides direct, intense heat and is ideal for high-temperature cooking, while the enclosed element delivers indirect, diffused heat perfect for slow, low-temperature smoking.
Cooking racks are another critical feature of electric smokers. The number and adjustability of these racks determine how much food you can fit into your smoker and how flexibly you can arrange your food.
For those who have a preference for the traditional smoking method, the Big Chief electric smoker offers both gas and charcoal heat sources, providing a seamless blend of old and new.
The temperature range and control mechanism is another area to focus on. Most electric smokers offer a wide temperature range, allowing you to smoke a variety of foods.
The digital control panel and internal temperature gauge aid you in monitoring and controlling the temperature accurately, ensuring that your meat is smoked to perfection every time. Some electric smoker models come with an on-and-off control switch and adjustable racks that allow you to control heat effectively.
Electric smokers' construction material is another area where you need to pay attention. Stainless steel construction offers durability, heat retention, and ease of cleaning, making it a preferred choice.
If visual monitoring of your food as it smokes is something you enjoy, then consider models with a glass door like the Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker or the Masterbuilt Electric Smoker. These models allow you to watch the smoking process without opening the door and disrupting the temperature.
The Bradley Smoker is a potential choice if cold smoking is a feature you desire. Cold smoking imparts a unique flavor to smoked food that's subtly different from hot smoking.
For those who prefer gas smokers and charcoal smokers, some electric models offer both types of heat sources. This hybrid approach provides you with the best of both worlds, letting you enjoy the convenience of electric smoking along with the traditional flavor of gas or charcoal smoking.
Electric smokers can also enhance the smoky flavor of your food. Soaking wood chips in water and adding them to the smoker produces more smoke, resulting in a stronger smoky flavor of smoke meat. Moreover, electric smokers eliminate the need for burning charcoal and adjusting temperatures manually, as is the case with traditional and pellet smokers.
Electric smokers are growing in popularity in the barbecue industry. They're user-friendly and often come with intuitive instructions, making them accessible even to beginners. Moreover, models with heat-resistant handles ensure safety when moving the smoker around, and multiple cooking racks let you smoke a lot of food at once.
There are several top electric smoker brands available today, including Char-Broil, Masterbuilt, and Bradley. Each brand offers models with unique features and specifications that cater to different needs, ensuring that you can find the perfect smoker for your requirements. Whether you prefer a traditional-style smoker or one with digital controls and adjustable racks, there's an electric smoker out there for you.
Investing in the right electric smoker can revolutionize your barbecue experience, allowing you to enjoy mouthwatering smoky-flavored food consistently. The convenience and ease of use of an electric smoker let you focus more on the cooking and less on the mechanics of smoking meat. Don't wait any longer - start your search for the perfect electric smoker today!
