Best Electric Smoker for Perfectly Smoked Meats

Smoking meat is an age-old cooking technique that has been around for centuries. It’s a process that involves cooking meat over low heat for an extended period, which infuses it with a smoky flavor, making it tender and juicy. While traditional smoking methods require a lot of effort and time, electric smokers have made it easier for home cooks to enjoy the same delicious results with less hassle.

Electric smokers are essentially outdoor ovens that use electricity to generate heat and smoke. They are designed to maintain a consistent temperature and smoke level, which is crucial for achieving perfectly smoked meat. Unlike traditional smokers, electric smokers don’t require a lot of attention, and you don’t need to constantly monitor the temperature or add more wood chips.

When looking for the best electric smoker, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the size of the smoker, which will depend on how much meat you plan to smoke at once. The second is the quality of the smoker’s construction, which can impact its durability and performance. Finally, you’ll want to consider the smoker’s features, such as digital controls, built-in meat probes, and Bluetooth connectivity, which can make smoking meat even more convenient.

After researching and testing various electric smokers, we’ve identified the top models that deliver on performance, durability, and convenience. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a novice cook, our guide will help you find the best electric smoker for your needs.

Best Electric Smokers

We have researched and tested various electric smokers to bring you the best options in the market. Electric smokers are a great alternative to traditional smokers as they offer convenience and ease of use. With an electric smoker, you can easily smoke meats, fish, and vegetables in your backyard without worrying about the hassle of lighting up charcoal or wood. In this article, we will be sharing our top picks for the best electric smokers that will help you achieve that perfect smoky flavor.

1) Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker

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If you’re looking for a reliable electric smoker that’s easy to use, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker might be just what you need.

PROS

With its vertical design and 710 square inches of cooking space, this smoker can hold up to 7 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 pork butts, or 4 racks of ribs, making it perfect for family gatherings or parties.
The digital control board allows you to set the cooking time and temperature up to 275°F with ease, so you can achieve the perfect combination of juicy smoked meats and top-tier flavor.
The patented side woodchip loader lets you add wood-fired smoked flavor without having to open the smoker door, ensuring optimal smoke flow for a superior end result.

CONS

The smoker’s maximum temperature of 275°F might not be high enough for some users who prefer to cook at higher temperatures.
The smoker’s legs are not adjustable, which might make it difficult to use on uneven surfaces.
The smoker’s window might fog up during use, making it difficult to monitor the food without opening the door.

In our experience, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker is a great choice for anyone who wants to smoke meat without the hassle of traditional smoking methods. The smoker’s digital control board and patented side woodchip loader make it easy to achieve the perfect flavor and texture, while its spacious vertical design and removable water bowl and rear grease tray make cleaning up a breeze. Overall, we would recommend this smoker to anyone who wants to enjoy delicious smoked meats at home.

2) EAST OAK 30″ Digital Electric Smoker

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If you’re in the market for an electric smoker, we highly recommend the EAST OAK 30″ Digital Electric Smoker. It’s perfect for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want to enjoy fall-off-the-bone meat with a smoky flavor. Here are the pros and cons of this product based on our experience:

PROS

The side wood chip loader allows for continuous smoking for 2-3 hours without opening the door, preserving the internal heat and locking in the smoked flavors.
The 800W power heating tube creates consistent smoke from wood chips, guaranteeing tender, juicy meats through low and slow cooking.
The 725 sq inches of cooking space with 4 removable chrome-plated smoking racks is perfect for cooking large amounts of meat and vegetables.

CONS

The size of the smoker might be too small for larger families and groups.
The temperature varies on each shelf, so it’s recommended to use multiple probes if smoking more than one item.
The initial cleaning process before use can be time-consuming.

In our experience, the EAST OAK 30″ Digital Electric Smoker is a great investment for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. The visual glass door allows you to directly observe the food in the smoker, and the internal light also aids in illumination. The meat probe detects food temperature and keeps track of smoking progress and heat in real-time, ensuring efficient operations and offering a comfortable and convenient user experience. The digital control panel for monitoring internal temperature and time, along with a remote control, makes cooking with this smoker a breeze.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient electric smoker with a large cooking space, we highly recommend the EAST OAK 30″ Digital Electric Smoker.

3) Masterbuilt MB20070122 40 inch Digital Electric Smoker with Window and Legs, Black Digital Electric Smoker w/ Window & Legs

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If you’re looking for an electric smoker that is easy to use and produces delicious, smoky flavors, the Masterbuilt MB20070122 40 inch Digital Electric Smoker with Window and Legs is a great choice.

PROS

With 970 square inches of cooking space and four chrome-coated smoking racks, this smoker is spacious enough to cook up to 16 chickens, 4 turkeys, 8 pork butts, or 8 racks of ribs at once.
The digital control board makes it easy to set the cooking time and temperature up to 275°F, so you can get the perfect smoke every time.
The patented side woodchip loader allows you to add wood-fired smoked flavor without having to open the smoker door, resulting in enhanced low and slow cooked dishes.

CONS

The smoker is quite heavy at 72.1 pounds, so it can be difficult to move around.
Some users have reported that the smoker’s temperature gauge can be inaccurate, so it’s important to use a separate thermometer to ensure your food is cooked to the correct temperature.
The smoker’s window can become foggy during use, which can make it difficult to monitor your food without opening the door.

Overall, we think the Masterbuilt MB20070122 40 inch Digital Electric Smoker with Window and Legs is a great choice for anyone looking for an easy-to-use electric smoker that produces delicious, smoky flavors. The spacious cooking area and digital controls make it easy to cook a variety of meats and dishes, while the patented side woodchip loader ensures that your food is infused with wood-fired flavor. However, the smoker’s weight and potential temperature gauge inaccuracies may be a concern for some users.

4) Traeger Pro 575 Wood Pellet Grill

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If you’re looking for an electric smoker that can do it all, the Traeger Pro 575 Wood Pellet Grill might be the one for you.

PROS

Never use gas or charcoal again with wood-fired taste up to 500°F.
WiFIRE technology allows you to control the grill from anywhere using the Traeger App.
Versatile 6-in-1 cooking options with 575 sq in of grilling space.

CONS

Assembly can be time-consuming and challenging.
The pellet hopper can be small for longer smokes.
The price point may be too high for some.

We’ve had the Traeger Pro 575 for a few months now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The wood-fired taste is unbeatable, and we love the precise temperature control that allows us to cook everything from brisket to pizza. The WiFIRE technology is a game-changer, allowing us to monitor and adjust the grill from anywhere.

Assembly was a bit of a challenge, but once we had it together, we were ready to start cooking. The only downside we’ve found is that the pellet hopper can be small for longer smokes, so be prepared to refill it if you’re cooking for an extended period.

Overall, the Traeger Pro 575 Wood Pellet Grill is a top-of-the-line electric smoker that’s perfect for those who want wood-fired taste without the hassle of gas or charcoal. It’s versatile, easy to use, and built to last. If you’re willing to invest in a high-quality smoker, this one is definitely worth considering.

5) EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker

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If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient electric smoker, the EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker could be a great option for you.

PROS

The side wood chip loader allows for continuous smoking for 2-3 hours without opening the door, preserving the internal heat and locking in the smoked flavors.
The 800W power heating tube creates consistent smoke from wood chips, guaranteeing tender, juicy meats through low and slow cooking.
The smoker has a large capacity of 725 sq inches and comes with 4 removable chrome-plated smoking racks, making it perfect for cooking for a crowd.

CONS

The temperature varies on each shelf, which may require rotating the food during cooking.
The smoker may be too small for larger families and groups.
The initial cleaning process can be time-consuming and requires careful attention to detail.

We recently had the chance to try out the EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker, and we were impressed with its performance. The side wood chip loader made it easy to add wood chips without losing heat, and the consistent smoke created by the 800W power heating tube resulted in perfectly cooked meats with a delicious smoky flavor.

One thing to keep in mind is that the temperature varies on each shelf, so it may be necessary to rotate the food during cooking to ensure even cooking. Additionally, the smoker may be too small for larger families and groups, so it’s important to consider your cooking needs before purchasing.

Overall, we would recommend the EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient electric smoker. Its large capacity, consistent smoke, and easy-to-use features make it a great option for backyard BBQs and outdoor gatherings.

6) Masterbuilt Analog Electric Smoker

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If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use electric smoker, the Masterbuilt Analog Electric Smoker is a great choice.

PROS

The analog temperature dial makes it easy to set your desired smoking temperature up to 275°F.
With 535 square inches of cooking space and three chrome-coated smoking racks, you can easily smoke up to 3 chickens, 2 turkeys, 3 pork butts, or 3 racks of ribs.
The vertical design allows heat and smoke to circulate evenly, resulting in tender meats and flavorful veggies.

CONS

The lack of digital controls may be a turnoff for some users who prefer more precise temperature settings.
The woodchip tray may need to be refilled frequently for longer smoking sessions.
The analog temperature dial may not be as accurate as a digital control panel.

Overall, we found the Masterbuilt Analog Electric Smoker to be a reliable and efficient smoker that produced delicious results. Cleanup was easy thanks to the removable ash tray and water bowl, and the adjustable air damper allowed us to control the amount of smoke for our desired flavor profile. If you’re looking for a straightforward electric smoker that gets the job done, this is a great option.

7) Traeger Grills Pro 34 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, Bronze

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If you’re looking for a versatile and reliable electric smoker, the Traeger Pro 34 Wood Pellet Grill is a great choice.

PROS

Wood-fired taste: Cooking with wood pellets gives food an unbeatable flavor that you just can’t achieve with gas or charcoal.
6-in-1 versatility: With the ability to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ, this smoker can handle just about any type of food you want to cook.
Precision temperature control: The Digital Pro Controller maintains a precise temperature to guarantee perfectly cooked food every time.

CONS

Doesn’t grill well: While this smoker can handle a wide range of cooking tasks, it’s not the best option if you’re looking to grill food quickly at high temperatures.
Takes time to preheat: This smoker can take up to 20 minutes to preheat, so you’ll need to plan ahead before you start cooking.
Expensive: Compared to some other electric smokers on the market, the Traeger Pro 34 is a bit pricey.

We recently had the chance to test out the Traeger Pro 34, and we were impressed by its performance. The wood-fired taste is truly unbeatable, and the smoker’s versatility makes it easy to cook just about anything you can imagine.

One of the standout features of the Traeger Pro 34 is its precision temperature control. The Digital Pro Controller maintains a precise temperature within +/- 15 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can be confident that your food will be perfectly cooked every time.

While we loved the Traeger Pro 34’s versatility, we did find that it doesn’t grill food as well as some other electric smokers on the market. If you’re looking to cook food quickly at high temperatures, you may want to consider a different smoker.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Traeger Pro 34 to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile electric smoker. While it is a bit pricey, the wood-fired taste and precision temperature control make it well worth the investment.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best electric smoker, there are a few key features that you should consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Capacity

The first thing to consider is the capacity of the smoker. How much food do you plan on smoking at one time? Different models will have different capacities, so it’s important to choose one that meets your needs. Keep in mind that larger capacity smokers will generally be more expensive.

Temperature Control

Another important feature to consider is temperature control. Look for a smoker that allows you to control the temperature easily and accurately. Some models will have digital controls, while others may have analog controls. Digital controls tend to be more precise, but they can also be more expensive.

Construction

The construction of the smoker is also important. Look for a model that is well-built and sturdy. Stainless steel construction is a good choice, as it is durable and easy to clean. Make sure the smoker has a tight-fitting lid to help keep the smoke and heat inside.

Additional Features

Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. For example, some models may have built-in meat probes to help you monitor the internal temperature of your food. Others may have built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control the smoker from your smartphone.

Overall, choosing the best electric smoker comes down to finding a model that meets your specific needs and preferences. By considering the factors above, you should be able to find a smoker that will help you create delicious, smoked meats and other dishes with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for in a high-quality electric smoker?

When looking for a high-quality electric smoker, there are some features that you should consider. First, look for a smoker with a digital control panel that allows you to easily set and monitor the temperature. Second, consider the size of the smoker and make sure it is suitable for your needs. Third, look for a smoker with a good insulation system that will help maintain a consistent temperature. Fourth, consider the material of the smoker, as stainless steel is a good choice for durability and ease of cleaning.

How do electric smokers compare to traditional smokers in terms of flavor?

Electric smokers are designed to produce a consistent temperature and smoke, which can result in a more consistent flavor compared to traditional smokers. However, traditional smokers can produce a more complex and smoky flavor due to the use of wood or charcoal. Ultimately, the choice between an electric smoker and a traditional smoker will depend on personal preference.

Which electric smoker models are recommended for beginners?

For beginners, we recommend electric smokers with simple and easy-to-use controls, such as the Masterbuilt 30-Inch Digital Electric Smoker or the Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker. These models offer a good balance of features and affordability, making them a great choice for those new to smoking.

What are the advantages of having a Bluetooth-enabled electric smoker?

A Bluetooth-enabled electric smoker allows you to control and monitor your smoker from your smartphone or tablet. This can be a convenient feature, as you can adjust the temperature, check the cooking progress, and receive alerts without having to be physically near the smoker. However, this feature may not be necessary for everyone and can add to the cost of the smoker.

Can you recommend any electric smokers that are manufactured in the USA?

Yes, some electric smokers that are manufactured in the USA include the Cookshack AmeriQue Electric Smoker, the Smokin-It Model #2 Electric Smoker, and the Louisiana Grills Vertical Pellet Smoker.

What are the top-rated electric smokers for the year 2024?

As of 2024, some of the top-rated electric smokers include the Traeger Pro 575 Pellet Grill, the Weber SmokeFire EX6 Wood Fired Pellet Grill, and the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Digital Charcoal Grill + Smoker. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the best electric smoker for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Best Electric Smoker for Perfectly Smoked Meats

Best Electric Smokers