Anyone who claims not to like the taste of grilled pork, brisket or beef, surely needs to have their taste buds checked. These foods are actually very tasty when smoked. However, just few people have the patience to make it happen.
We are aware of the fact that searching for the best smoker for beginners or the best smoker under $500 in the market is quite a herculean task, because of the features which are quite confusing to the layman.
However, this review promises to simplify all these features of the best smokers for beginners and the best smoker under $50, so that you would have a clearer picture of the indoor electric cooker or the commercial electric cooker you are going for.
Anytime you want to prepare a tasty smoked food, there is absolutely nothing which beats the appropriate temperature that would perfectly smoke the food in a consistent manner. Electric smokers or indoor electric smokers come with an upgraded technology, which helps you to smoke your meat in a comfortable and stress-free manner.
INTERESTING FACTS
In addition to this, when you are using an electric smoker, you can leave it alone and attend to other tasks, unlike when you use either a gas or a charcoal smoker. Professional smokers also do not have to think about the quantity of fuel to be used because you are making use of the electricity which powers your house.
Similarly, there is no need for you to handle fire, since they are neither gas or charcoal smokers. So, when it comes to maintaining safety, using an electric smoker is the best. Also, there are best electric smoker under $200 which you can opt for among various smoker brands.
Different types of electric smokers
Some of the most common electric smoker types being used in general household are as follows:
Upright drum smoker
As its name indicates, this smoker is like a tall standing drum and is usually adjusted to the wall. There is a small rounded base that has a bushel where you can put the fuel. Such smokers are very simple-looking, with no more than 2 cooking racks close to the top. A vented covering usually protects the assembly from its top and this smoker usually cooks no more than a 2 persons’ meal at a time.
Offset electric smoker
If the cooking chamber of a smoker has a cylinder-like shape, people will refer to it as an offset. Such a smoker has a smaller cylindrical firebox at one end from which the fire can quickly go off if a little wind crosses it. There is a tube inside the outer cylinder that takes up the fire’s heat and gets the food cooked.
Pellet smokers
Most of the smokers listed in this article are pellet smokers. A pellet smoker usually uses wood and sawdust to produce smoke in a temperature-controlled setup. This wooden pellet is placed in a gravity-bolstered container that produces steam and pressure under the fixed temperature range. All the components of the pellet are forced in a warmth box under pressure where they start igniting and producing heat. There is a fan fitted inside such smokers that takes up the heat and spreads it equally to get the food items cooked.
Working mechanism of an electric smoker
The working of an electric smoker is a little complex for an ordinary user. However, we have tried to break it down into simple steps to help you understand what goes on the inside of your smokers as you stand around, waiting for your meal.
Electric smokers are innovative in their function. These smokers work under some control units which control literally everything inside the chambers. When you set a controller to a specific value, you are basically controlling the amount of oxygen inside the cooking cylinders of these smokers. The fuel you use in your smoker also decides the oxygen capacity, amount, and production inside the chambers.
The amounts of oxygen that you let stay in the chambers decides the pressure and temperature ranges for your food inside. More the temperature is, the more quickly your food will cook and vice versa.
Other than this control, there are mini tubes and vents inside these smokers that take up the needed air and pressure towards the walls and sides of the main chambers. These walls further have advanced vents that evenly let the heat and pressure spread across, thus cooking whatever you have placed inside.
It is also easy to maintain an electric smoker which comes from one of the best smoker brands as there are no remnants of charcoal. So once you are done, all you need to do is to remove the wood chip tray and remove the wood chips leftovers.
1. Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker
A good electric smoker is the one that is able to stay at a fixed temperature range to assist easy and proper cooking. Thankfully, this Masterbuilt Smoker knows how to do that. The ease of operation that comes with buying this one has led many to recommend this smoker to the first time users too.
It has all that you may need in a smoker including an easy cleaning process at the top. There are digital control panels to let you easily turn the machine on and off and set cooking time and temperature too. The smoker features 4 chrome-coated racks for smoking that allow it to grill and smoke the food equally from all the sides.
There is a patented side wood chip loading system that allows you to add as much wood as you want with absolute ease. The thermostat temperature control of this smoker allows for even smoking while the insulated body keeps all the heat trapped inside.
The smoker also houses a dedicated water bowl that you can fill up to add some moisture and taste to your food. There is an air damper that controls the smoke quantity and a wood chip tray allows you to easily remove the ash after you’re done using the smoker.
Overall, this is a great electric smoker that can quickly heat up and can retain its temperature for a longer time. Also, it’s’ an easy to clean and easy to use product that is worth the price tag it comes with.
FAQs
Q: For how long will this smoker last?
A: This smoker offers great value for money and, if used carefully, it can last up to 7-8 years and even more than that.
Q: How huge is the water bowl?
A: The water bowl that this smoker houses is quite spacious. You won’t have to worry about the water evaporating completely even after consistent hours of usage.
- Easy cleaning
- Great temperature retention
- Spacious
2. Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker
This is another fun and easy to use electric smoker that is the need of every modern household. It has 548 sq. inches of spacious interior that lets you smoke and grill as many items as you want. You can prepare a meal of 4-5 at the same time in this smoker without worrying about an uneven cooking.
The body build of this smoker is vertically designed, thus allowing it to take a little space in your patios and lawns. The product is very light weight too, thereby allowing an easy transport. You can have a full control over your food through the digital temperature control and an efficient built-in thermostat.
There are 3 removable shelves made out of stainless steel that are dishwasher safe and can be cleaned very easily. The removability of these trays allows you to cook bigger pieces and cuts of meat without any problem at all.
You can easily add your favorite wood chips through a side drawer and can add water in the stainless steel tray to have a moisturized feel from your food. The smoker has 1500 watt heating element and can easily be heated between 100 to 400 degrees.
Overall, this smoker is spacious, versatile, and easy to use. The fact that you can easily control this smoker and can prepare a meal that exactly suits your taste buds makes this smoker an even better choice.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to keep on adding charcoal to retain the temperature inside it?
A: No, the temperature setting is a one-time task with this smoker. You can simply walk away and enjoy once you have fixed the temperature to a desirable range.
Q: Is this smoker good for a beginner’s usage?
A: Yes, this smoker has an easy to use nature that lets everyone easily prepare their food with its versatile features.
- Replacement of parts may hinder efficiency
- Some parts may get rusty after some years
- Always needs wood chips for grilling
3. Masterbuilt 30 Inch Black Electric Analog Smoker
Assuming that you love well smoked meat which would also taste delicious, this electric analog smoker might be just what you need.
One great feature which this smoker possesses is, its usage does not require you to be an expert. So, even though you are an amateur or a knowledgeable meat smoker, using this unit would be very easy.
The producer of this electric smoker, Masterbuilt, are well-renowned for their prowess when it comes to manufacturing quality products, which are certain to last for a very long time. Hence, you would not need to stress yourself concerning the durability period, even though activities such as smoking a Boston butt on an electric smoker are carried out.
This masterbuilt electric smokers reviews explain how these smokers should be your first choice. Furthermore, you can easily find masterbuilt electric smoker recipes that are specifically for preparing food in these smoker brands.
In addition to this, the Masterbuilt electric analog smoker has a large cooking space, so it makes it easier for you to prepare food for a large number of people at just one instant. Hence, this large cooking space would suffice for any hangout which might require a large number of people.
One quality of this dual insulated smoker which we would not skip, is the fact that it is very portable. Hence, it can be carried around with ease and without any stress. Also, this electric analog smoker does not occupy much space, so it solves the problem of managing the little space you have.
The Masterbuilt electric analog is also properly insulated, which makes smoking meat achievable irrespective of the weather. It comes with thick walls which are proficient in operation as regards averting loss of heat.
The Masterbuilt electric smoker reviews highlights that this electric smoker has a mouth-watering feature, as it is very affordable considering its cooking prowess. It promises to be a cooker which would be definitely worth it.
FAQs
Q: Is this smoker a bulky one?
A: We know people love the idea of having a compact and portable product which has the same features as a fairly large one, that is why we included this particular smoker in this review. It is a portable one which you would definitely enjoy.
Q: How difficult is its use?
A: Trust us when we say this, this smoker is one of the easiest-to-use which you can lay your hands on.
- It consumes a lot of power
- Temperature gauge might give inaccurate readings
4. Smoke Hallow Electric Smoker with Adjustable Temperature Control
While setting up your kitchen appliances, having an electric smoker comes in handy. So, if you want to take smoked food prepared traditionally, in a modern way, then you definitely need to have an electric smoker under your roof.
This electric smoker has a powerful rating of 1500 watts and also comes with a temperature control setting which can be adjusted according to your preferences. With this feature in place, you have the luxury of regulating the temperature of your food.
This electric smoker review further shows that there are two chrome-plated cooking grids. These cooking grids are also flexible, as they can be adjusted to your preferred height. In addition to this, there is a wood chip and water pan which are equally useful when you are smoking your food.
There is a heat indicator which a good number of electric smokers do not possess. This heat indicator is responsible for hinting you if the food being processed, is receiving the appropriate amount of smoke when it is in the smoker.
Moreso, this electric smoker has side handles with a nice design, which enables you to run a check on the smoker, and also a spring wire handle which makes it smooth for the door to be opened without you having to use gloves.
The size of this smoker is quite portable, having a dimension of 17.5” x 19.2” x 35.1”. In relation to this, it can be easily moved around due to its lightweight of 34.7 pounds.
FAQs
Q: How difficult is it to clean?
A: It is very easy, just wash the racks, the wood chips pan and the greased pan.
Q: Can it be used on a wooden deck?
A: No, it is not advisable. It could catch fire.
- Whenever the door is opened, the temperature drops
- When comparing the water pan to others, it is very small
5. Smokehouse Products Big Chief Front Load Smoker
This electric smoker can be regarded as one which grants you convenience when processing your food. Not only is this best smoker a proficient one, but it also has good use in your kitchen.
First and foremost, it has a temperature setting which is regularly low, thereby enabling you to process your food at a low temperature, instead of spoiling your food from processing at high temperatures.
The Smokehouse chief front smoker is structured for quality smoke ventilation which consists of smoke exchange and proper drying out. With this process, you can be sure to obtain the intense flavour which comes from the smoke, and the ideal food texture required once the food is ready for consumption.
Furthermore, the smoking capacity of this smoker is 50 pounds, which is very impressive, so irrespective of the fact that you are smoking a small quantity of food, or a large one which could suffice for a hangout, Smokehouse Chief Front smoker has got you covered.
This smoker is constructed with aluminum, which makes it very durable. It also comes with a dishwasher safe drip pan which is positioned at the underneath of the smoker, making clean-up very easy. It is structured to make dehydration a smooth process, and the non-modifiable heat works at 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
The easy-slide chrome plated grills which are present, make loading and off-loading very easy, as it happens at the front just like a conventional oven. There is also a recipe book in place, which gives you an edge on how to commence.
The Smokehouse Chief Front Smoker is planned and designed for using outdoors and there is no need for an assembling.
FAQs
Q: How much smoke does it release?
A: Just a little bit.
Q: Is the electrical cord long?
A: Yes, it is fairly long.
- You can only use it outdoors
- The user capacity is quite limited
6. Old Smokey Electric Smoker
This electric smoker is one which can be regarded as being simple, and this is one quality which endears users to its purchase. There is no need to stress yourself concerning malfunctions when it comes to display, electric connections amongst others.
Beginners would find the usage of this electric smoker easy and instrumental, the same applies to professional meat smokers.
The closed lid of this old smokey electric smoker is very tight, it does not allow steam to escape. This applies to a Propane vs electric smoker. In addition to this, it also gathers juice which is formed by the process of condensation and makes them to drop on the meat. This entire process adds to the flavour of the meat.
In addition to this, side leaks are not in place, which would make clean-up a whole lot easier. Also, another feature which you would find interesting, is the heating system. There is no need stressing yourself over adjusting the temperature.
What you just need to do is, move the knob and the remaining process occurs all by itself. With this heating system, it implies that you can make use of this electric smoker indoors, without having any fear of an accident.
Your meat would also remain juicy and soft because of the walls which are properly fitted, and the lid which is very tight. One thing you should note is, you do not have to acquire professional catering skills, before you prepare a tasty meat meal.
Old smokey electric smoker is capable of handling such preparations. The old smokey electric smoker allows you to move it effortlessly from one place to another.
FAQs
Q: How big is the cooking space?
A: It is very large so you can easily smoke food for a small gathering.
Q: Is the smoker insulated?
A: Yes, it is well insulated.
- There is no thermometer in place
- During usage, the smoker becomes hot
7. Masterbuilt 20070910 30-Inch Electric Digital Smoker
This is another of the Masterbuilt’s masterpiece smokers that provides great value for money because of its amazing cooking features. This smoker allows for a range of cooking methods for you to ace regardless of your expertise level of using an electric smoker.
You can cook, steam, grill, boil, smoke, and do everything else with your food items using the fuels of your choice. This 730 sq. inches spacious smoker has 4 chrome-coated racks that let the 800 watt heating element heat and cook your food evenly from all sides.
The digital timer and temperature controller let you easily cook your food anywhere between 100 to 275 degree F with no difficulty at all. What makes this smoker even better are its accessories that let you experiment with your cooking methods. You can smoke or grill the veggies and meat in a number of ways and customize your cooking style with this smoker easily.
This masterbuilt smoker houses a loader at its side to let you easily add and remove chips and coal during usage. There is also a removable water pan alongside an air damper to help you cook the food in a way you like.
FAQs
Q: Are the components of this smoker dishwasher safe?
A: Not really. The company has not made any such claim and some have reported rusts developing after some time. It is better to clean the components manually.
Q: What level of users would find this product the best?
A: Honestly, anyone from a beginner to a pro cook would love using this smoker for the variety of usage it offers.
- Allows for customization
- Compact body
- Very spacious
8. Smokin-It Model 1 Electric Smoker
Electric top rated smokers have made life easier when it comes to providing the most affordable and effortless way to get smoking food.
Conventionally, electric smokers come with a fairly large space which ensures a larger amount of food can be processed. Also, you do not have any reason to worry about your food getting burned.
The Smokin-it electric model is a wheeled-device which has a portable design. Operating this best electric smoker is very easy, due to the features which it comes with. There are two racks which are stainless steel materials, a drip pan, a diameter rubber of 3-inch length and a smoke box.
A mere look at the Smokin-it electric smoker, would make you think it is a regular smoker, because of how simple the design is. The wheels which this smoker comes with, makes it very easy for movement. This appliance is very durable because of the build-up.
Interiorly, the walls of this smoker is designed with fiberglass which adds to its durability, and the maintenance of the needed temperature in the cooking chamber. The racks are not left out too, as they are made with steel which is solid and durable.
This electric smoker comes with a LED light which adds to its beauty. The temperature range is between 100 degrees to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. With this range, you would be able to prepare a wide assortment of meals at various temperatures.
The Smokin-it smoker is very spacious, as the total space in the chamber is 2911 cubic chambers. When you buy this smoker, you can be sure that it would last you for a very long time. Taking a look at the performance of this smoker, we make bold to tell you that it is very impressive, as the food would come out with a great taste.
So, if you need one of the cost-effective ways to efficiently smoke food via electric smoking, this is definitely a great choice.
FAQs
Q: How large is the cooking space?
A: It is very large, beyond the space which most conventional smokers have.
Q: What is the durability of this smoker?
A: You can be assured that this smoker has a long life-span, so you would certainly use it for years to come.
- Sometimes, the temperature control might be difficult
9. Smokin-It Model 2 Electric Smoker
This electric smoker has an instrumental role to play when it comes to smoking food. It provides a seamless way whereby you can smoke your meat and avoid stressing yourself.
A good number of people are of the opinion that smoking your meat might be quite expensive. However, with the use of the Smokin-it electric smoker, it is very affordable.
First and foremost, this smoker has stainless steel racks which assure durability for a long period of time. As a matter of fact, when you look at the make-up of these smokers, you would discover that Smokin-it has integrated a flavour of innovativeness.
Taking a look at the space which this smoker comes with, it has a total value of 2911 cubic inches interiorly which is very large. This space suggests that you can process meat weighing up to 22 pounds, and still have space left. This smoker uses space efficiently, and it would save you the stress of worrying about where to position it.
The power rating of this smoker is 120 volts, 8 amperes which shows that this smoker is very efficient. The temperature range which it operates with, is between 100 to 250 degrees, which implies that there would be hardly any type of meat which you cannot smoke.
This smoker has a dimension of 20.4” x 15” x 19”, which implies that it is an ideal size for a best home smoker which people should have.
In its make-up, there is fiberglass which works well as an insulator, ensuring that no heat is lost, alongside increasing the efficiency.
The Smokin-it model 2 electric smoker is a great choice, as it performs tasks which other top smokers might not be able to carry out, by doing so efficiently.
FAQs
Q: Can beginners use this smoker?
A: Sure they can. However, it is more advisable for this smoker to be used under close supervision.
Q: Does this smoker have insulating properties?
A: Yes, the fiberglass helps in carrying out that function.
- The temperature control is not really ideal
- It is quite expensive
10. Z Grills ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Smoker
When it comes to grilling, it is one cooking process which keeps everyone excited. Using the right kind of grill determines to a large extent, how well the food would come out.
Hence, it is essential that to have an awesome experience, so you should use the grill which has excellent features and specifications.
The Grills ZPG-450A has a digital control which keeps people impressed, and this grill also has the capacity to process various kinds of food with diverse methods as well. This grill has an upgraded wood fire technology which gives your food, a wood flavour which the whole family or group would enjoy.
The temperature range is quite wide, between 180 to 475 degrees Fahrenheit. This range is ideal for smoking, roasting, and grilling.
For first timers, using the Grills ZPG-450A is very easy, because there is an automated start ignition which makes operation very easy, and also making monitoring of the whole process stress free. This is further aided by the LED display and the temperature control. This grill works for meat varieties such as chicken, pork chops, steak and the likes.
The durability of this grill can be attributed to the high-grade stainless steel, which has a strong resistance to corrosion, which makes it last longer. The design of this grill is state-of-the-art and smooth. It promises to be one which can be used for a very long time.
Due to the digital temperature control, wood pellets can be added automatically, as a means of regulating the temperature, so you can be sure that the food is prepared squarely.
The racks of this grill has a total surface area of 454 square inches alongside with a hopper capacity of 15 pounds.
FAQs
Q: Does this smoker come with automatic features?
A: Yes, it does. The start ignition is automated, alongside with the digital temperature control.
Q: Are there exceptions to the kind of meat which this smoker can process?
A: Thankfully, there are none. This smoker perfectly handles all kinds of meat.
- It does not have a thermometer
- It does not have a smoker box for low temperature cooking
11. Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker
This Analog-electric smoker is the upgraded version of the vertical electric smoker, with some features being enhanced.
First and foremost, the size of this smoker is bigger than the vertical smoker, as it can accommodate a cooking space of around 544 square inches, which can be partitioned into 3 modifiable cooking grids.
This smoker has a heating element with a rating of 1200 watts. It is produced from the double insulation principle, which implies that the smoke and the heat are kept in the smoker and do not escape, until you open the door yourself. Just like the vertical version of this smoker, there are no glassed doors.
However, the doors which this smoker comes with, has a temperature gauge which is fixed interiorly, which enables you to know the temperature inside the smoker at any given time.
It also gives you the luxury of knowing the state at which your meal is. The wood ship trays are improved in function. Although, they are a little bit bigger than the vertical smoker.
The Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker has a water pan which is made from Aluminium, this ensures that the meat is kept nice and juicy all through the process of smoking. You can remove the drip tray which further ensures that the clean-up is very easy. This smoker has no wheels, so it is not something you can push around.
This smoker goes for an affordable price just like the vertical version, and is also similar in construction. It has an average weight of 50 pounds, and a warranty of 1 year.
FAQs
Q: What is the warranty period of this smoker?
A: One year.
Q: What makes this different from the vertical version of this smoker?
A: This model is slightly bigger.
- Affordable even for begineers
- It contains all the necessary features such as: The grease cup, double walled design, water pan and a temperature gauge
- There are two exhaust ports which enables a smooth flow of air, meant to expel heat appropriately within the electric smoker
- The door latches are two in number, which ensures that the unit is tightly closed
- There are side handles meant for effortless moving
- The thermometer reading is not accurate sometimes
- The paint peels off quite fast
- This smoker has no wheels
12. Masterbuilt MB20073519 Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker with Broiler
This is currently one of the coolest smokers in the market with the latest Bluetooth connectivity. If you are someone who doesn’t like sitting around the smoker when it is working or have a very big patio then this electric smoker is for you.
The smoker houses Bluetooth Smart technology to let you control its functioning directly from your phone. You can easily set and change the temperature, fix lighting, turn the smoker on and off, and can monitor meat temperature all from your phone. This is perfect for those who don’t like the strong smell of food being grilled and don’t want to go near the smoker when it is working.
Like many other Masterbuilt electric smokers, this smoker has 4 smoking racks that are coated with chrome. These racks are removable to let you make room for huge cuts without worrying about fitting them in.
The patent side wood chip loader lets you add the fuel without having to compromise on the smoke’s quantity because you won’t have to open the smoker’s door at all. This smoker has an ability to hold temperature inside for a longer time period, resulting in consistently cooked and evenly tasting food.
FAQs
Q: Who is this smoker best for?
A: This smoker has been made specifically for BBQ lovers, who are good with smartphone usage and like to roam around as their food is being prepared.
Q: Is this smoker long lasting?
A: Yes, it is. If used with care it will last you up to 6 years because of its strong body built and sturdy accessories
- Built-in meat probe thermometer
- Bluetooth smart technology
- Spacious
Editor’s Pick: Recommended Best Electric Smoker
Our own best choice according to this electric smoker reviews, based on all considerations, is the Masterbuilt Electric Digital Smoker Front Controller.
Getting an electric smoker, is not an action which you can just carry out on impulse, there is an essential need for you to carry out a bit of research before you buy any. You would have to consider the electric smoker reviews, functionality, quality, ratings, the results and a host of others.
Below are the unique features of a good electric smoker, which you must consider before buying your next electric smoker.
- Temperature Control: Looking at the electric top smokers which are sold in the market, the good ones are those which have useful temperature control features such as a rheostat. The rheostat plays the function of controlling the internal temperature of your electric smoker. The rheostat has a digital display which makes monitoring very easy. If your electric smoker does not have this feature, then you are short of one excellent feature which a proficient electric smoker should have. Do note that there are other features in place which you should consider. However, the ones listed below are features which should not be overlooked.
- Heat Structure: Before you buy an electric smoker, you need to study the heat structure. This is what explains the distribution of heat in the temperature chamber of the smoker. It is advisable that you go for an electric smoker which has an upward heat flow which comes from the heating furnace positioned below.
- Layer Structure: For each electric smoker, there is a specific kind of layer and tray which it comes with, some could be vertical, while the others could be horizontal. In addition to this, some could be made of stainless steel, while the others could come in different materials. For this feature, there is really no big deal, since it has to do with the orientation of the smoker. Basically, it is advised that you go for a smoker which has thicker and straight grids. To get the smoky taste of your meat or fish, you can opt for top rated smokers which have hollow grids.
- Versatility: When you want to go for an electric smoker, you should also consider the varying cooking functions which the smoker can carry out. So, it would be essential if you get a smoker which can roast, grill and carry out a couple of other functions at a go. This would prevent you from going for an additional equipment since there is a smoker in place that is multi-functional.
- Customer Reviews: After selecting one of the best home smoker which you want to purchase, it is essential that you check a reputable online store for electric smoker reviews from different individuals who have purchased the product before you. With these electric smoker reviews, you would also be able to deduce how effective and proficient the electric smoker would be.
Frequently Asked Questions: FAQ’s
CONCLUSION
At this point, we hope the air of confusion has been cleared, and you know the electric smoker to go for.
To wrap it up, getting yourself a proficient electric smoker, would make sure that the quality of your food is great. So, for professionals and owners of restaurants reading this, it would be very essential that the electric smoker which you use, is top-notch. Asides the categories of people listed above, home-owners too would also find the use of a good electric smoker, quintessential.
Also, it is necessary that you show a great deal of care when dealing with an electric smoker, if you do not do so, there are chances that they would get damaged quicker than usual, and eventually stop working.
In addition to this, some of the advanced electric smokers, would require an instructional manual, so that you would use them in the right manner. Irrespective of the limitations which an electric smoker might have, people still prefer purchasing them to traditional smokers.
All the products in this electric smoker reviews are affordable, efficient and reliable, and you would need to go through all the features once again, to determine the one you need.
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