9 Best Electric Smokers of 2023 – Guide & Budget Picks

Nothing in this world compares with that scrumptious smoked cut of meat on a nice sunny day. There’s something about that smoky flavor that just elevates your taste buds, whether it is a fresh salmon filet or a well-done brisket.

However, smoking meat isn’t easy, as you’ll need a lot of wood and charcoal, not to mention a fair amount of time as well. That’s something not everyone has. Thankfully, you don’t need them, as electric smokers have made it easier to smoke any kind of meat in your home.

Most people don’t give the time of day to electric smokers, as they hold the view that it can’t produce flavors that come close to any that a charcoal smoker manages.

However, electric smokers have come a long way and most of the new models are now producing smoked flavors rivaling the best traditional smoking techniques.

If you’re thinking about making your life easier by buying an electric smoker, you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to provide you with a buyer’s guide and review the top 9 electric smokers today in different categories.

Best Electric Smokers 

When buying an electric smoker, the first thing you need to consider is what you’re planning to use the smoker for as that will determine what type you buy.

Whether you’re looking for the biggest model you can find or a highly portable unit, it’s important to find one that meets all your needs. That’s the reason why we have reviewed electric smokers for every purpose. Let’s check them out.

Here is the list of the 9 best electric smokers that you can use to make delicious, smoky-flavored dishes.

1. Smokehouse Little Chief Electric Smoker – Best for Portability and Space

If you don’t have much space or you prefer a portable electric smoker, this is the perfect option for you. It’s a small grill but is perfect as it is only 12 inches wide and 24 inches tall, making it one of the smallest smokers on the market. It comes with 4 burners and has a 250-watt heating element, and has a single heat setting of around 165 degrees.

You can easily smoke all kinds of food and meat at 165 degrees, but the lack of adjustability may be a problem for some buyers. The Little Chief can smoke up to 25 pounds of meat, which is an impressive feat considering how small the smoker is. 

Specifications 

• 250-watt heating element
• Operates at a steady 165 degrees
• Includes pan for flavoring elements, such as wood chips
• 4 chrome-plated grills that are dishwasher safe and easily slide in and out
• Weighs only 12 pounds
• Highly portable
• Only 24 inches tall and 11.5 inches wide

Benefits 

• Highly recommended for novice cooks
• Smokes up to 25 pounds of meat
• No-frills smoker 

2. Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D 30” Electric Smoker – Best for Insulation & Consistency

For people who really want an electric smoker that can hold consistent temperature and heat when smoking, the best option is an insulated model. It offers a controlled cooking area, and the best option for an insulated cooker is the Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D 30” Electric Smoker. It comes with an extensive range of features and has a double-walled insulation construction that holds smoke and heat inside.

Users also get a push-button control panel and a digital thermostat with this model. There’s also a meat thermometer that has been built in, which helps closely monitor the work. The Dyna-Glo is over 30 inches tall and offers 700 square inches of cooking space in the unit. Flavoring elements and wood chips can be safely and quickly accessed, as there is an integrated panel on both sides of the unit so that you can keep the smoke and heat in.

Specifications

• Side access panel for wood chip loading
• Built-in thermometer for accurate cooking
• Simple push-button controls
• Over 700 square inches of cooking space in the unit
• 30 inches tall

Benefits 

• A set-and-forget smoker
• Easy to use and clean
• High-quality analog smoker
• Very convenient to use 

3. Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker – Best for Intermediate Users

You get some amazing features with this electric smoker, however, it’s also more complex to work with and is more expensive. That’s the reason it isn’t recommended for first-time users, but it’s simple and easy to work with for those who have a bit of experience with electric smokers. The Char-Broil offers more than 1000-watt heating elements, and 544 square inches of cooking space, with a double-wall construction.

All that allows it to easily smoke any kind or type of meat that you want. Cleaning is as easy because of the chrome-plated cooking grates, while you can make quick adjustments with the wood chip tray, grease cup, and removable water tray. There is an analog dial that lets control temperature externally, and you can monitor the temperature through a gauge mounted on the door.  

Specifications 

• Digital LED panel allows for easier monitoring of food
• Double-wall insulated construction
• Removable wood chip tray
• Simple, analog controls
• 544 inches of cooking space

Benefits 

• Affordable price
• Perfect gift
• High-quality material construction 

4. Char-Broil Deluxe Electric Smoker

If you’re looking for the perfect appliance for cooking at home with your friends and family, the best smoker out there is the Char-Broil Deluxe Electric Smoker. It has an insulated glass door that lets you see inside the smoker and view the meat being cooked. It is also loaded with premium features that allow you to smoke any kind of meat you want easily. You can easily control the temperature inside the smoker through the digital control module, and the integrated meat thermometer lets you monitor the temperature of the meat.

It comes with more than 700 cubic inches of cooking space, along with 4 adjustable racks, and double wall insulation to keep consistent temperature and heat inside. There’s also a box for wood chips and a catch tray for grease. 

Specifications 

• Digital LED Panel for monitoring food
• Removable grease and wood chip trays
• Double-wall insulation for consistent temperature
• Insulated glass door for easily monitoring food
• Large 725 cubic inch capacity

Benefits 

• Solid construction
• Easy to clean
• Easy to operate
• Perfect for novice cookers 

5. Bradley Digital 6 Rack Electric Smoker

If you require a smoker that isn’t just for family gatherings, then you should think about getting a commercial electric smoker. The best one in that department is the Bradley BTDS108P Electric 6-Rack smoker, which is a heavy-duty, large model smoker ideal for cooking meals for large crowds. It has 6 racks that provide nearly 800 square inches of cooking space, and this smoker can cook meat slowly for up to 8 hours non-stop.

The Bradley comes with complete digital controls, and temperatures can be adjusted to around 280 degrees. It features double-wall insulation for keeping temperatures consistent in the smoker. There’s also a system that feeds wood bisquettes in the smoker at set intervals. It allows you to get consistent smoke in the cooking process and the consistent feed of wood ensures that you get an authentic smoked flavor when cooking. 

Specifications 

• Oven feature for other types of cooking
• Simple to use digital control panel
• Fully insulated design
• Unique wood supply method for consistent smoke
• Large 780 square inch capacity
• 6 cooking racks

Benefits 

• Has a sleek design
• A great choice for a lazy smoker
• Perfect for large cooking 

6. “Smokin-It” Model #1 Electric Smoker

If you’re looking to take your appliance anywhere, you should get something easy and compact to maneuver, and the “Smokin-It” Model#1 is one of the best portable models you can get your hands on. It has a compact shape and comes with heavy-duty caster wheels that allow it to be moved easily. The Smokin-It Model#1 comes with 18-gauge, 201 stainless steel which makes it an extremely tough model and comes with 3-inch rubber caster wheels for easy maneuverability.

It has a 400-watt heating element that ensures that temperatures can range from 100 to 250 degrees and comes with 3 removable stainless-steel cooking racks that offer flexibility and a lot of space for cooking all types of meats. 

Specifications 

• Built-in box for wood chips
• Holds up to 22 pounds of meat
• Comes with caster wheels to move it easily
• Made completely out of 18-gauge stainless steel
• Powerful 400-watt heating element with adjustability from 100 to 250 degrees

Benefits 

• Hassle-free and easy to assemble
• NSF-certified and perfect for restaurant use
• Portable and easy to store 

Best Electric Smoker Comparison Table

Best 3 Electric Smokers by Price

At the end of the day, your choice to purchase an electric smoker all comes down to price, and budgeting is important when it comes to buying an electric smoker. Therefore, we’ve highlighted some of the most affordable and budget-friendly options for electric smokers out there.

1. Best Under $100 | Masterbuilt Portable

Priced at under $100 you can’t go wrong with the Masterbuilt Portable, which offers you wide a wide range of features. It stands just 24 inches wide and tall and is one of the smallest smokers you can ever find in this range. You can easily transport it as it has foldable legs, and if you’ve got a budget and want a simple smoker, you get a great compact option with the Masterbuilt Portable.  

2. Best Under $200 | Masterbuilt 20071117

The Masterbuilt 20071117 is a perennial best-seller and one of the most popular smokers in the market, and it’s easy to see why that’s the case. This unit comes with digital controls, and cooks can easily adjust cooking temperatures. It comes with a fully insulated interior and 4 cooking racks, making it easier for you to cook for large crowds at a consistent temperature.  

3. Best Under $500 | Bradley BTDS108P

If you want to purchase a smoker that costs you less than $500, then the best choice for you is the Bradley BTDS108P Digital 6-Rack. It’s incredibly durable and comes with double-wall and stainless-steel construction. There is also a unique wood-feeding system that provides a constant stream of smoke for cooking your meat to perfection.  

Best Electronic Smoker By Price Comparison Table

Best Electric Smoker Brands

If you’re looking for the top options for electric smokers offered by brands in the market, we have you covered with these electric smoker options.

1. Masterbuilt

One of the best brands when it comes to electric smokers is Masterbuilt, which has been manufacturing outdoor cooking equipment and smokers for over 40 years. They’re a US-based family business that has made a series of outdoor cookers.

However, they’re known for their range of smokers which includes electric, charcoal, and propane models. Masterbuilt has made all kinds of smokers and of their premier offerings is the Masterbuilt 20077615 Digital which is perfect for people that are shopping in the market for electric smokers.

It comes with an 800-watt heating element and offers more than 700 square inches of cooking space, allowing it to easily handle the biggest gatherings.

This model can also monitor the internal temperature of the meat and it can be controlled remotely with the help of a controller. You can also monitor food easily through the insulated glass door and even though it’s not the cheapest model, you get value for money with the Masterbuilt.

2. Bradley

Another great brand for smokers is Bradley, which focuses largely on cheap electric smokers in the market and has appliances that use innovative designs, which help feed small discs of wood into a smoke generator to produce consistent and aromatic smoke. One of their most popular products is the Digital 4 rack, which provides a lot of room for cooking with 4 removable cooking grates. 

You can regulate temperatures from 100 degrees to 280 degrees and comes with a complete digital panel, and you can easily monitor the interior temperature of the meat with a thermostat.

The Bradley has a 100% stainless steel interior and has been insulated completely for optimal heat regulation. This model can be operated uniquely as it also has a built-in oven burner. Bradley Smokers are on the expensive side but their smoke production and wood-feeding systems are the best among electric smokers in the market.

3. Char-Broil

Another brand that is famous for its cookers is Char-Broil, which has been manufacturing smokers and grills for more than 60 years. From electric to charcoals and more, Char-Broil has made every kind of smoker that you could want for smoking or grilling. One of the top models for Char-Broil is the Char-Broil Deluxe, which is inexpensive and packs a ton of useful features. 

It is a fully insulated smoker that provides users with a glass door view for inspecting their work. Its integrated meat thermometer lets you view progress and get the meat out of the appliance. You also have 4 removable cooking grates and more than 700 square inches of space, along with a box of wood chips that make it easier for you to infuse real smoke into the meat cooking.

4. Smoke Hollow

Smoke Hollow is a name that is well respected in the community and specializes in smokers of all kinds and types. They also produce gas-powered and charcoal smokers apart from their electric smokers and their most popular offering is the Smoke Hollow 30162E 30-Inch, a compact unit that can easily handle the needs of large gatherings. It has an interior height of 30 inches and comes with 3 removable cooking grates, while an external knob allows you to control temperature, and the built-in thermostat allows you to monitor it. There is a solid steel construction that ensures the unit will last long. 

You also get a water pan and wood chip box, while there is a drip pan underneath the unit. If you’re looking for a simple electric smoker, there is no better option out there.

Buying Guide For The Best Electric Smoker

If you’re buying an electric smoker for the first time in your life, you’re bound to be confused when confronted with the extensive range of choices available to you. You must consider so many factors, from features to the price. Then, there is the fact that electric smokers come in all shapes and sizes. So, instead of getting confused, check out this buyer’s guide for the best electric smokers.

Who Should Buy One?

Before you go ahead and buy an electric smoker you need to ask yourself whether you really need one or are just getting one because your neighbor has one. The best thing about an electric smoker is that it offers you greater convenience because of the electric unit. That is a godsend for people who don’t want to spend hours smoking meat in a traditional wood or charcoal smoker. You could be out for an entire day when trying to smoke the perfect cut of meat in a traditional smoker. 

On the other hand, an electric smoker cuts down on your preparation time and doesn’t need you to monitor it consistently. So, if you plan on smoking your brisket and don’t want to spend the entire day outside, an electric smoker is the best choice for you.

Temperature Control

When you’re shopping for a smoker the first thing you must consider is temperature control. In general, you’ll find smokers that come with analog or digital temperature control and let you set temperatures between 100 and 300 Fahrenheit. However, there are also basic smokers that only have one set temperature at which they smoke. There are also advanced units that let you insert a thermometer into the meat, letting you control and adjust the temperature when required.

Picking the Right Size

Another thing you must consider is the size of the electric smoker you want to buy. Since smokers come in all sizes, it’s imperative that you know what size you want. From portable to tiny units to large and commercial-sized units, you need to pick the smoker that will fit in your space. Some of the newer model smokers come in 500 and 700 square inches; that’s enough space for smoking items like turkey, briskets, or a rib. 

Adding Charcoal or Wood Chips

You may not expect it, but an electric smoker does have the ability to allow you to add charcoal or wood chips to the smoker, which ensures that users can infuse real smoke flavor into the meat. Even though electric smokers are great at smoking meat, they can’t replicate the real smoke flavor in the meat.

Your Budget

One of the most important things you must consider when purchasing an electric smoker is the budget you have. Some electric smokers start at just around $100 and some will cost you more than $500, but the most expensive ones out there are commercial smokers. You should expect to pay somewhere around $200 to $300 for a good quality digitally controlled smoker.

Maintenance and Ease of Use

Like most cooking appliances, you must also consider how easy it is to clean and maintain an electric smoker before you buy it. Most electric smokers come with removable trays that allow for easier cleaning, and others have doors that can be swung open wide so that you can easily clean every corner of the unit. A lot of electric smokers come with cooking grates that make it easier for cleaning. 

Performance

We have left the most important consideration to last, and it’s undoubtedly the performance of the electric cooker, as you should know how well it performs before buying it. One of the most important aspects of properly smoking meat is to maintain a consistent temperature because if the temperature keeps on changing it is impossible to get the right flavor and tenderness in the meat.

Before purchasing an electric smoker, ensure that the smoker has great insulation and can easily maintain temperatures for long periods for the food that you want to smoke.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

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From the above 9 best hedge trimmers, here are the top three expert recommendations:

If you’re looking for top-notch portability and a compact design, then the Smokehouse Little Chief Electric Smoker is an ideal option. With its 12-inch width, 24-inch height, and 250-watt heating element, it’s perfect for those with limited space or in need of a portable smoker.

For those who prioritize insulation and consistency, the Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D 30″ Electric Smoker is a good option. With double-walled insulation construction, a push-button control panel, and a digital thermostat, you can maintain a controlled cooking area within the 700 square inches of cooking space available.

Finally, if you’re shopping with a budget, the Masterbuilt Portable is the right choice. Priced under $100, this compact electric smoker offers foldable legs, making it easy to transport, and measures at 24 inches in width and height.

Ultimately, finding the perfect hedge trimmer involves considering your unique needs and preferences. By thoroughly examining a range of designs, you’re sure to make an informed decision that will enhance your gardening experience.

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