In the ever-evolving world of grilling, electric smokers have become a popular choice for both novices and seasoned grillers. With their convenience, precision temperature control, and ability to infuse delectable flavors into meats, it’s no wonder they are gaining traction. In this post, we will explore the top six electric smokers that are sure to deliver superior grilling results in 2024. Whether you’re a barbecue enthusiast or simply looking to elevate your outdoor cooking game, these appliances are worth considering.
1. EAST OAK 30″ Digital Electric Smoker
9.1
Excellent Smoker
The EAST OAK 30 Digital Electric Smoker with Glass Door and Extra Long Constant Smoking offers an excellent smoking experience with its spacious cooking area, user-friendly controls, and durable build quality. The glass door allows for easy monitoring of the smoking process, while the extra-long constant smoking feature ensures consistent smoke output. With no mentioned drawbacks or negative comments, this smoker is a versatile and reliable option for outdoor parties, home BBQs, and backyard cooking.
Pros
- Glass door allows for easy monitoring of the smoking process without sacrificing heat retention
- Spacious 725 sq inches of cooking area and four detachable racks provide ample space for smoking a variety of meats
- Intuitive and user-friendly digital controls for precise temperature and time settings
- Extra-long constant smoking feature ensures consistent smoke output for perfectly smoked meats
- Easy assembly and durable build quality
- Versatile smoker that can infuse a rich smoky flavor into various dishes
- Easy to clean with removable racks and accessible drip tray
Disadvantages
- No drawbacks mentioned in the reviews
- No negative comments about the product
The EAST OAK 30″ Digital Electric Smoker with Glass Door and Extra Long Constant Smoking is a versatile outdoor smoker that delivers exceptional performance and convenience. Its side wood chip loader allows for continuous smoking without heat loss, while the 725 sq inches of cooking area and four detachable racks provide ample space for smoking a variety of meats simultaneously. The user-friendly digital controls and remote control make it easy to set precise temperature and time settings, ensuring perfectly smoked meats every time. With its durable build and rust-resistant features, this smoker is a reliable companion for any BBQ enthusiast.
Top-of-the-Line Smoking Technology
- Side wood chip loader for convenient smoking
- Glass door for easy monitoring of the food
- Extra long constant smoking for extended smoking sessions
- 725 sq inches of cooking space
- 4 detachable racks for versatile cooking options
- Suitable for outdoor parties, home BBQs, and backyard cooking
2. Cuisinart COS-330 Vertical Electric Smoker
8.7
Respectable and convenient
The Cuisinart COS-330 Vertical Electric Smoker offers a generous 548 square inches of cooking space with three removable smoking shelves, making it suitable for smoking a variety of meats and vegetables. While it is easy to assemble and lightweight, some users have reported issues with smoke leaking from the door seal and suggest a larger water dish and wood chip box. Overall, it is a respectable and convenient option for smoking enthusiasts.
Efficient and Reliable
- Easy to assemble
- Lightweight
- Respectably sturdy
- Three removable smoking shelves
- 548 sq. inches cooking space
Drawbacks
- Smoke slowly leaks from the door seal
- Needs a larger water dish and wood chip box
The Cuisinart COS-330 Vertical Electric Smoker is a user-friendly and lightweight alternative to traditional charcoal smokers. With its 548 square inches of cooking space and three chrome-coated racks, this smoker is spacious enough to smoke meat for a large group of people. The removable water pan and wood chip tray make for easy start-ups and clean-ups. Its vertical footprint makes it a perfect size for patios and barbecue kitchens. This smoker is convenient, easy to use, and perfect for beginners or casual smokers.
Key Features
- 548 square inches of interior space
- Three removable smoking shelves
- Vertical footprint for easy placement
- Suitable for smoking a variety of meats and vegetables
3. Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker
8.7
Conclusion: Mixed performance
The Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker, 30″ in Black is a durable and well-built smoker with a sleek appearance. It offers easy temperature and time adjustments, convenient chip loading, and good smoke production. However, some users have reported limited temperature control and issues with the cold smoker attachment.
Benefits of Masterbuilt Smoker
- Easy to use and set up
- Parts readily available
- Durable and well-built
- Holds temperature well
- Convenient chip loading
- Adjustable door closure
- Good smoke production
Limitations
- Limited temperature control
- Issues with the cold smoker attachment
The Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker is a versatile and user-friendly option for both beginners and experienced smokers. With 710 square inches of cooking space and four chrome-coated racks, it offers ample room to smoke a variety of meats. The digital controls allow for easy temperature and time settings, while the patented side wood chip loader makes it convenient to experiment with different flavors without opening the smoker door. The smoker is praised for its durability, safety, and ease of cleaning. However, some users mention that temperature control can be slightly inconsistent and recommend purchasing a wireless temperature probe for more accurate monitoring.
Top-notch Smoker Features
- 710 square inches of cooking space
- Digital control panel for easy temperature and time adjustments
- Vertical design for efficient use of space
- Electric-powered for convenient and consistent smoking
- Black color for a sleek and stylish appearance
4. Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker Deluxe
8.4
Highly recommended
The Char-Broil 17202004 Digital Electric Smoker, Deluxe, Silver offers top-notch construction quality and excellent insulation to retain heat, resulting in tender and juicy meat. While the remote functionality could be more intuitive and the smoke duration is limited with a full smoke box, overall customer satisfaction and recommendations are high.
Pros
- Top-notch construction quality
- Functional and attractive design
- Excellent insulation to retain heat
- Accurate and reliable meat thermometer
- Remote temperature device for convenience
- Keeps meat tender and juicy with water/catch tray
- Overall customer satisfaction and recommendations
Drawbacks
- Drawbacks:
- Limited smoke duration with a full smoke box of chips
- Controls and display could be more intuitive, especially with the remote functionality
The Char-Broil 17202004 Digital Electric Smoker, Deluxe, Silver is a high-quality smoker designed for smoking food for large groups. With 725 sq. in. of cooking space over three different cooking grates, it can easily accommodate a party of 8 or more. The insulated, double-wall construction ensures efficient smoking and the hassle-free design makes it 10 times more efficient with wood chips compared to other electric smokers. This smoker also features an advanced control panel with an easy-read, blue LED display, a removable food thermometer, and a glass door with a stainless steel, dual-tone finish. It is equipped with wheels and an integrated handle for easy mobility and has a large, stainless steel locking latch for a smoke-tight seal. The Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker, Deluxe, Silver is a versatile and convenient smoker that delivers delicious, tender, and smoky results every time.
Key Features
- Insulated, double-wall construction
- Advanced control panel with easy-read, blue LED display
- Removable food thermometer
- Glass door and stainless steel, dual-tone finish
- Large, stainless steel locking latch for smoke-tight seal
5. Black 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker
8.4
Conclusion: Mixed Performance
The 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker, Black is a cost-effective option for those in search of a digital electric smoker, featuring improved controls and a reliable heating element. However, some users may find it challenging to maintain a consistent temperature and struggle with the assembly process.
Benefits: Enhanced Smoker Experience
- Cost-effective option for those looking for a digital electric smoker
- Improved controls and heating element compared to previous models
- Easy to assemble
Limitations
- Drawbacks:
- Struggles to maintain perfect temperature at times
- Assembly may be difficult for some users
The 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker, Black by Masterbuilt is a versatile and user-friendly smoker that is suitable for both beginners and seasoned smokers. With its digital controls, it’s incredibly easy to use – simply plug it in, set the temperature and time, and let it do the work. The smoker features a patented side wood chip loader, allowing you to experiment with different flavors without opening the door. With 711 sq. in. of smoking space and four chrome-coated smoking racks, it offers plenty of room to smoke enough food to feed the whole family. The thermostat-temperature control ensures even and consistent smoking, while the temperature can reach up to 275˚F. Users have praised the smoker for its performance and ease of use, making it a cost-effective option for anyone who enjoys the art of smoking.
State-of-the-art smoking technology
- Temperature reaches up to 275˚F
- Digital panel controls on/off, cooking temperature and time
- 711 sq. in. of smoking space to feed the whole family
- Four chrome-coated smoking racks
- Thermostat-temperature control for even, consistent smoking
6. Pit Boss PBV3A1 Electric Smoker, Blue Hammertone
7.3
Positive experiences
The Pit Boss Grills PBV3A1 Electric Smoker, Blue Hammertone, 684 sq inches is an easy-to-use smoker with excellent temperature control and a cool-to-the-touch ceramic casing. However, some customers have reported difficulty reaching higher temperatures and limited customer support assistance. Overall, customers have had positive experiences with this product.
Benefits
- Easy to assemble and use
- Glass front door allows for easy monitoring of food
- Ceramic casing remains cool to the touch during use
- Temperature control is excellent
- Positive overall customer experiences
Cons
- Difficulty reaching higher temperatures
- Limited customer support assistance
The Pit Boss Grills PBV3A1 Electric Smoker in Blue Hammertone offers a unique smoking experience that stands out from the competition. With its double-walled cabinet and 1650 watts of power, this smoker allows for a wide temperature range of 100°F to 325°F. The oversized front load wood chip tray provides up to two hours of cooking time per load, making it easy to infuse your food with delicious flavors. The smoker features 684 square inches of cooking space, four porcelain-coated cooking racks, and an analog meat probe for precise temperature monitoring. With its stylish navy blue semi-gloss finish, rear wheels, and handle, this smoker combines functionality with mobility, making it a must-have for both beginners and experienced smokers alike.
Key Features
- Integrated analog controls
- 4 porcelain coated cooking racks
- 684 square inches of cooking space
- 1,650 watts
- External access front loading wood chip tray
- Porcelain coated wood chip pan and water pan
- Analog meat probe included
Comparing Electric Smokers
Affordable Options for Every Budget
- Basic electric smokers: These are entry-level electric smokers with simple features and functionalities. They typically have a temperature range of 100°F to 275°F and offer limited cooking space. Price range: $100-$200
- Mid-range electric smokers: These smokers offer more advanced features such as digital controls, multiple racks, and larger cooking capacities. They usually have a wider temperature range of 100°F to 400°F and offer improved insulation for better heat retention. Price range: $200-$400
- High-end electric smokers: These smokers are equipped with premium features like Wi-Fi connectivity, advanced temperature control systems, additional cooking functions (such as grilling and searing), and larger cooking capacities. They often have superior build quality and insulation for optimal heat retention. Price range: $400-$800+
- Commercial electric smokers: Designed for professional use, these smokers are built with heavy-duty materials and offer large cooking capacities to accommodate high-volume cooking. They often have advanced temperature control systems, multiple cooking zones, and robust construction for durability. Price range: $800-$3000+
- Please note that the price ranges provided are approximate and may vary depending on the brand, specific model, and additional features offered by different electric smoker manufacturers
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Electric Smoker
- Temperature Control: Ensuring precise temperature control is essential for achieving optimal results while smoking. Look for an electric smoker that offers a wide temperature range and allows for easy adjustment. Ideally, it should have a digital thermostat or temperature control panel that allows you to set and maintain the desired temperature accurately
- Cooking Space and Rack Configuration: Consider the size and capacity of the electric smoker. Assess your needs and determine the amount of food you plan to smoke regularly. Look for an electric smoker with sufficient cooking space and multiple racks to accommodate different types of food. Adjustable or removable racks can be advantageous when smoking larger cuts of meat or when you need to rearrange items for even cooking
- Ease of Use and Cleaning: Opt for an electric smoker that is intuitive to operate and clean. Look for features such as a user-friendly control panel, easily accessible wood chip tray or water pan, and removable drip pan. Some electric smokers also come with additional conveniences like built-in meat probes, timers, or Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring. A smoker with a removable ash or grease tray can simplify the cleaning process and make maintenance more convenient
Top electric smoker brands
- Masterbuilt
- Weber
- Char-Broil
- Bradley Smoker
- Traeger
- Camp Chef
- Pit Boss
- Smoke Hollow
- Dyna-Glo
- Cuisinart
Operating Instructions for the Electric Smoker
- Start by thoroughly reading the instruction manual provided with the electric smoker. This will give you a better understanding of its features, functions, and safety precautions
- Pre-season the smoker before its first use by wiping the interior surfaces with a damp cloth and then coating them with a thin layer of cooking oil. This helps in preventing any potential residue or odor from affecting the flavor of your food
- Familiarize yourself with the temperature settings and controls. Experiment with different temperature ranges to determine the ideal cooking temperature for specific types of meat or recipes
- Prepare the food you wish to smoke by marinating, seasoning, or brining it as desired. Ensure that the food is properly thawed if it was frozen
- Load the smoker with the prepared food, ensuring that there is enough space between the items for proper heat circulation. Avoid overcrowding the smoker as it may result in uneven cooking
- Plug in the electric smoker and set the desired cooking temperature and time. Monitor the temperature throughout the cooking process using the built-in thermometer or an additional meat thermometer
- Resist the urge to constantly peek inside the smoker as it can cause heat loss and affect cooking times. Instead, trust the set temperature and cooking time, only checking occasionally for any necessary adjustments
- Add wood chips or chunks to the smoker’s designated tray or box to infuse your food with a smoky flavor. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate amount and timing of adding wood
- Once the food has reached the desired internal temperature or is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the smoker using heat-resistant gloves and allow it to rest before serving
