Today:30 May, 2023

5 Best electric smokers

After testing 5 top-selling models, we chose the best electric smoker on the market in 2022, which is guaranteed to satisfy your culinary needs. Check out our reviews and comparison table.

BEST CHOICE - MASTERBUILT MB20071117

Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker

WHY WE CHOSE IT:

  • Fully-insulated steel walls
  • Extra-large cooking space
  • 4x chrome-coated racks
  • Digital controls
  • Convenient wood chip loading

Electric smokers are an ideal mix of convenience and usability. They look good, they are easy to use, and on top of that – they are not as expensive as you may think.

For that reason, our guide will provide you with exclusive tips on how to find the best electric smokers out there.

After all, who wouldn’t want to have one of these amazing devices out on the deck or patio? If BBQ parties are your thing, or you just enjoy the taste of juicy meat – check out these notable models.

Best electric smokers in 2022

1. Masterbuilt 20071117 – Best overall

Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker

KEY FEATURES:

  • 730 sq. in of cooking space
  • 4 grilling racks
  • 800W of power
  • Sturdy construction
  • A patented side wood chip leading system

Ever since 1973, Masterbuilt has produced some of the best smokers on the market. So, let’s kick off our collection of electric smoker reviews with the cream of the crop. Here is what makes their 20071117 model exceptional.

Simple but functional design

Design-wise, Masterbuilt 20071117 is quite simple and straightforward. What’s more, many users say that this smoker reminds them of a mini-fridge. There are no fancy bells in terms of lines and shapes. Instead, Masterbuilt 20071117 features a 30’’ solid black body.

Even though it does not come with a glass door, Masterbuilt’s 30’’ electric smoker offers a range of benefits. The most prominent one could be the use of a patented wood chip leading mechanism. This system allows you to insert the chips through a tube-like gadget on the side of the smoker, without opening the door.

Robust and reliable

Masterbuilt 20071117 is not a small electric smoker. The weight of this model is 45.9 lbs., which still allows for decent mobility. In other words, you can carry it around until you find a nice spot for the BBQ party.

Also, this model is sturdy and robust. The impressive build quality is among the reasons why this is the best electric smoker for the money. Stainless steel retains heat, which provides consistency in terms of temperature. As a result, pork or beef will be evenly roasted or smoked.

Ample cooking space

One of the biggest advantages of this model is the abundance of cooking space. To be precise, Masterbuilt 20071117 offers as much as 730 square inches of space. Sounds impressive? That’s because it is.

Moreover, this model comes with four chrome-coated racks. The racks are removable and easy to clean. Beneath them, you’ll find a handy drip tray. As the name suggests, this tray will hold all the excess fat that falls down during the grilling process.

Digital temperature controls

Another important reason why this is one of the best electric smokers in the market comes from the digital control panel on top of the device. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be rocket scientists to adjust the temperature. The panel is super easy to use, and it will allow you to set the desired temperature in a flash. When it comes to Masterbuilt 20071117, the maximum temperature is 275 degrees Fahrenheit.

On top of that, users can set the time limit with the use of this panel. Clearly, this feature offers a hassle-free barbecue session. You can go and have fun with the family while the Masterbuilt’s smoker works on providing mouthwatering results.

The Good:

  • Easy to use
  • Digital controls
  • The wood chip loading mechanism
  • Affordable

The Bad:

  • No window on the door
  • No remote control

2. Smoke Hollow 26142E

Smoke Hollow Electric Smoker

KEY FEATURES:

  • Lightweight (only 35 pounds!)
  • 1500W of power
  • 2x chrome-plated racks
  • 130 sq. in of cooking space
  • ‘Cool-touch’ door

Established in Missouri in 2005, Smoke Hollow is somewhat of a newcomer to the world of grills and smokers. Yet, their 26142E model is among the best electric smokers in 2022. Let’s see what sets it apart from the rest.

Old-style design

At first glance, you may mistake this electric smoker for an ‘old bank safe’. Standing on 16’’ legs, this model combines simplicity and functionality. Since its 26’’ body is compact and sturdy, Smoke Hollow’s model promises longevity.

When it comes to electric BBQ smokers, the Smoke Hollow 26142E is one of the most portable models. Since it weighs a mere 35 pounds, you can grab the side handles and move it to a new location with ease.

A small cooking area

One of the most prominent shortcomings of this model is the small cooking space. In comparison to other entries in our electric smoker reviews, Smoke Hollow 26142E offers the least space. The total capacity of this smoker is 130 sq. in, which could be an issue if you are trying to grill meat for a large group of people.

At the same time, Smoke Hollow equipped the model with two chrome-plated racks. With the help of a grid track system, users can adjust the height of the racks. As a result, you could smoke a whole turkey in the compact body of Smoke Hollow 26142E.

Adjustable temperature

Even though this model is not an automatic smoker, it will allow you to adjust the temperature in a hassle-free way. First of all, it is important to note that Smoke Hollow equipped its 36142E electric smoker with a 1500W heating element.

What’s more, this device comes with a simple heat regulator. In total, the regulator offers four options: off, low, medium, and hot. Our guess is that the ‘hot’ setting delivers the maximum temperature of 325 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cool touch door

We all know that burn marks are often a side-effect of throwing a barbecue party in the backyard. To avoid such injuries, Smoke Hollow has incorporated a spring-wire door at the 26142E model. As such, this vertical electric smoker will let you open the door without touching any of the scorching hot elements.

To be honest, the spring-wire door latch is a nice touch in terms of aesthetics as well.

The Good:

  • Lightweight and portable
  • Easy to clean
  • Cheap
  • Spring-wire door

The Bad:

  • No window on the door
  • No digital temperature controls
  • Small cooking capacity

3. Landmann MCO 32954 Smoky Mountain

Landmann electric bbq smokers

KEY FEATURES:

  • 3-in-1 combo tray
  • Max temperature 350°F
  • Viewing window
  • Decent cooking space (431 sq. in)

The next entry on our list of the top-rated electric smokers comes from Landmann. Nicknamed the Smoky Mountain, this model offers a range of useful features. Here are the most important ones.

Stylish design

Even though aesthetics is not the priority when it comes to electric meat smokers, the design of the Landmann MCO 32954 deserves a word. For instance, this model comes with a useful viewing window. By looking through the window, you can monitor the grilling process and see if the meat is ready.

On top of that, this 26’’ electric smoker comes with handles on the side. Also, Smoky Mountain is equipped with adjustable feet, which will allow you to use the smoker on uneven surfaces. In translation, you can take it with you on a barbecue by the river. Or, you could take Smoky Mountain in the real mountains, why not?

Lightweight but sturdy

It may sound like a paradox, but the Landmann MCO 32954 is both lightweight and robust. The weight of this device is only 33 pounds, which proves the point that you can bring this electric smoker grill on the road with you.

At the same time, this model is made of good-old stainless steel. In fact, Smoky Mountain features double non-insulated walls. To prevent injuries, Landmann equipped the model with an adjustable door latch.

3-in-1 combo tray

Landmann Smoky Mountain comes with a patented 3-in-1 tray system. To clarify, this large tray combines three elements: a water pan, a wood chip box, and a drip tray. In theory, having these parts in one place may sound convenient. Yet, a combo tray is not a practical solution because you will have to open the door to get to the components.

Above this area, the Smoky Mountain smoker has three chrome-plated racks. Needless to say, they are removable and easy to clean. In total, this model can provide up to 431 square inches of cooking capacity.

More than enough power

One of the reasons why Landmann Smoky Mountain is considered one of the best electric smokers in the market lies in the abundance of power. In other words, this compact device is powered by 1500W. Yet, some users may see this as overkill. Too much energy consumption could have an impact on the electricity bill, so keep that in mind.

Yet, this electric smoker will allow you to regulate the heat in a hassle-free way. An old-style gauge on the door will tell you the current temperature inside the smoker. The gauge shows both Celsius and Fahrenheit scales.

The Good:

  • Cooking space
  • Viewing window
  • Mobility
  • Affordable price

The Bad:

  • No digital temperature controls

4. Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker

Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker

KEY FEATURES:

  • 1200W of power
  • Door-mounted analog gauge
  • Large cooking space (544 sq. in)

Char-Broil has been in the barbecue business ever since 1948. So, let’s see if their Analog model is a good electric smoker.

No-nonsense design

When it comes to design, Char-Broil decided to go with a proven formula – keep things as simple as possible! As a result, their Analog Electric smoker resembles a big metal box, with two handles on the side. This model does not feature a window for monitoring the grilling process, which is a considerable shortcoming.

Yet, the simplicity of the design results in ease of use. For instance, most people will have no problems with the assembly of this electric smoker. There are only 16 screws you need to put in place, and the device is good to go.

Decent cooking capacity

Despite the fact that this is not a large electric smoker, Char-Broil’s model provides a relatively large cooking space. To be precise, 544 square inches of space is enough to feed a small battalion, let alone your family and friends.

Moreover, this model comes with three chrome-plated racks. But wait, there’s more! Char-Broil left some space for an additional rack, which you could buy separately. It all depends on your grilling needs and habits.

Old-school temperature gauge

In the age of electric digital smokers, analog devices seem a little out of place. Yet, Char-Broil manages to deliver great results in terms of temperature control. The door-mounted gauge may look old-fashioned, but it can regulate the heat with ease.

Of course, 1200W of power help with the smoking process. As a result, Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker can maintain a consistent temperature for hours on end.

Made to last

Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker is a durable and reliable electric smoker. As they say, their products are ‘made to last’. Insulated double-wall with dual latches on the door will prevent the loss of heat or smoke. Of course, exhaust ports on the back will release the smoke that should go out anyways.

However, the steel construction of this model results in 49.5 pounds of weight. Even though this is within the industry standard, some users could have problems with carrying this smoker. But the use of strong side handles should do the trick. In other words, Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker is portable and mobile.

The Good:

  • Super easy to use
  • Affordable price
  • Large cooking space

The Bad:

  • No viewing windows
  • Heavy
  • No digital controls

5. Cuisinart COS-330

 Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker

KEY FEATURES:

  • 1500W of power
  • Up to 400 °F
  • Plenty of cooking space
  • Simple design

Cuisinart CO3-330 will be the last entry on our list of electric smoker reviews. So, let’s dive deeper into the features of this exciting model.

No-fuss design

When it comes to the shape of the Cuisinart COS-330, it is easy to see that the traditional principle of design dominated the creative process. In other words, this model is compact, intuitive, and straightforward. No fancy bells mean that there’s not much that can go wrong with this 30’’ electric smoker.

For example, the device stands on high legs, which ensure top-notch stability. Likewise, they raise the inside area of the unit towards the user, which helps with loading the meat and taking it out. The dimensions of this model are 22x19x37.5, and such a small footprint will allow you to place the Cuisinart COS-330 in almost any part of your home.

Solid build and durable materials

One of the reasons why Cuisinart’s model is among the best electric smokers out there is the solid build of the device. To clarify, stainless steel used in the construction of this smoker is sturdy and durable. Insulated walls retain heat in a remarkable way.

Since this model does not have a window on the door, you will have to open and close them every once in a while. For that reason, Cuisinart COS-330 comes equipped with a chrome spring door handle, which does not absorb as much heat.

Lots of space inside

Cuisinart COS-330 is an electric smoker grill that can help you roast, smoke, grill, or bake all kinds of meat. The capacity of this model is one of the largest in the market. With 548 square inches of available space, you can easily place a whole turkey inside.

What’s more, three removable racks can be adjusted to suit your needs. By default, the space above the top rack is 10’’ high, and the rest of them have 5’’ of space in between.

High levels of heat available

Believe it or not, Cuisinart COS-330 can produce as much as 400 degrees Fahrenheit inside the device! Of course, most meals will not need such extreme temperatures. Luckily, the COS-330 allows you to adjust the heat in a simple and straightforward way.

To be precise, users can adjust the temperature with the help of a door-mounted thermometer. The gauge is analog, which makes it super easy to read. For that reason, Cuisinart COS-330 is one of the best electric smokers for beginners.

The Good:

  • Lots of cooking space
  • Simple design
  • Extreme temperatures available

The Bad:

  • No window on the door
  • Bulky

What to look for when buying an electric smoker

As you could see from our electric smoker reviews, these devices come in different shapes and sizes. So, how can you know which model will provide you with the best results? Well, here are some of the elements you should take into consideration when looking for an electric smoker.

Ease of use

The functionality of an electric smoker needs to be at the highest possible level. Why? First of all, we all want to grill the meat in a safe and convenient way. That is why viewing windows are a wonderful addition. They let you see inside and monitor the state of your food without opening the door and exposing yourself to a huge cloud of smoke. Keep that in mind next time you decide to compare electric smokers.

Likewise, handles on the side are important, as well as the main handle for opening the door. Yes, small things can make a huge difference.

Mobility

When it comes to the best electric smokers out there, they all have a common trait – excellent mobility. OK, it’s not like you can just carry them around like a paper bag. After all, their average weight is around 40-45 lbs. Yet, electric smokers are great for backyard BBQ parties because two people can easily place the device on the desired location.

Some electric smokers have wheels, which further improves mobility. Others have adjustable legs, which allows you to place the smoker on an uneven surface.

Heat generation

As a rule of thumb, the more power the smoker has – the better. Admittedly, this doesn’t have to be the case every time. But it is clear that heat generation is an important part of an electric smoker.

In other words, if you buy a cheap electric smoker, the heat-generating unit may not produce sufficient heat. On average, the best smokers deliver around 250-350 degrees Fahrenheit as their maximum. Most meat types need only 150-200 degrees to produce mouthwatering results.

Heat control

Besides being able to generate lots of heat, electric smokers need to allow you to control the temperature in a hassle-free way. For that reason, buyers should always pay attention to this element as well.

For instance, the best models in the market come with high-tech digital controls. Some of the models even have remote controls! On the other hand, certain manufacturers are still using analog systems. Either way, make sure to check how you can control and adjust the temperature. Not all mechanisms are as functional as they may seem, so consult experts or previous owners of a similar device.

Cooking space

The size of the available space is also highly important. Typically, electric smokers will provide you with around 400-550 square inches of cooking space. Of course, every grill master can have different needs regarding capacity so make sure to check this aspect.

Likewise, the number of racks can play a part as well. In most cases, electric smokers will come with three or four chrome-coated racks. Needless to say, a large electric smoker could have more racks inside. Also, the best models will allow you to adjust the position of the grill racks.

Accessories

If you want your smoked beef or pork to remain juicy and tasty, it is essential that the smoker comes with a water pan. Water will evaporate during the smoking process, moisturizing the meat.

Other important accessories include a drip tray and a wood chip loader. To be honest, it’s best to look for a smoker with an automatic feeder. This means that you don’t have to place the chips manually every once in a while. Nonetheless, a side-loading mechanism can also be convenient and easy to use.

The bottom line

Electric smokers are a wonderful product of human ingenuity and creativity. After all, humans have been using smoke and heat to prepare their food for millennia. Nowadays, you can place a smoker in the backyard and all sorts of delicious meals could be ready in a flash.

However, it is important to choose the best electric smoker, so make sure to check our reviews and find the perfect model.

Michael is our staff writer. He has a diploma in journalism and also works in an IT company. His hobbies are gadgets, devices, and new technologies, which in turn are his favorite topics for research and writing articles.

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