10 Best Electric Smokers of 2023

Photo: Char-Broil

Electric smokers make your life easier by offering a set it and forget it smoking process. You don’t need to light any fires, check your fuel supply from time to time, or clean up some messy ash afterward.

Asides from meat and fish, you can also use an electric smoker for many other types of foods, including nuts, vegetables, cheese and lots more.

If you’ve developed a deep interest in electric smokers and would love to get one, you’ll find lots of help with this electric smoker review.

This is because it offers you a list of the top offers in the market, plus helpful information on making the right choice.

10 Best Electric Smokers – Review

IMAGE	PRODUCT	FEATURES
	1. Masterbuilt 20075315 (Best Overall)	Top quality and design Offers 975 sq. inches of space Powerful 1,200-Watt system Includes a remote
	2. Smokehouse 9900 (Cheapest)	Budget electric Smoker Beautifully embossed aluminum body Includes a bag of wood fuel Backed by a 2-year warranty
	3. Char-Broil 14201677 (Best Budget)	A solid steel smoker Offered at an attractive price Powerful 1,500-Watt smoker Flexible and easy to use
	4. Masterbuilt 20073716 (Best Portable)	Small & compact smoker Powerful 1,400-Watt heater Features easy-to-use controls Weighs just 21 pounds
	5. Old Smokey OSES (Best Classic Design)	Classic stainless steel smoker Doesn’t need extra water Comes with a 1-year warranty
	6. Masterbuilt 20077615 (Digital Smoker With 721 Sq. Inches)	Large 721 sq. inch smoker Features digital controls Powerful 800-Watt heater Includes a remote control
	7. Smokin-It #2 (100% Stainless Steel Build)	Built from stainless steel Tough & durable construction Compact & portable design 3-year manufacturer warranty
	8. Bradley Smoker BTDS76P (Premium Digital Design)	Fully automated smoker Offers premium features Made from quality materials Has a 1-year warranty coverage
	9. Char-Broil 17402004 (Deluxe Digital Design)	Large 725 sq. inch smoker Features a deluxe glass window Fully digital controls Includes a meat probe
	10. Smoke Hollow 26142E (26-Inch Smoker With Adjustable Temperature)	Powerful smoker & grill Features a 1,500-Watt heater Includes water & chip trays Also includes stay cool handles

1. Masterbuilt 20075315 – Best Overall Electric Smoker

Photo: Masterbuilt

• Power: 1,200 Watts
• Cooking Surface: 975 square inches
• Material: Stainless steel & glass
• Temperature Range: Up to 350 degrees F

This is one of the best digital electric smokers that you’ll find in the market and the best offer on this list. It comes from Masterbuilt, which is also one of the best names in the electric smokers market.

It comes with a digital control system and includes a display that’s mounted on the smoker’s top front. You also get a radio-frequency remote control, so you can control the smoker from a distance.

The inside features a 975-square-inch cooking space, complete with four chrome-plated racks. It also offers an internal light, so you can always keep an eye on your meat from the smoker’s glass window.

Downsides include the top-mounted controller not being waterproof and the lack of wheels that makes the smoker less mobile.

There’s a meat probe inside the smoker to help you cook like an expert and the package comes with a 90-day warranty, which although short, is still a warranty.

Pros:

• Top-quality materials and design
• Large 975 square inches powered by 1,200 Watts
• The package comes with an RF remote controller
• Includes 4 racks for flexibility
• The smoker has an internal light and a glass window

Cons:

• The front-mounted controller is not waterproof
• It lacks wheels for mobility

2. Smokehouse 9900 – Cheapest Electric Smoker

Photo: Smokehouse

• Power: 250 Watts
• Material: Aluminum
• Temperature Range: Fixed at 165 degrees F

This Smokehouse Little Chief can smoke up to 35 pounds of meat at a go. Plus, it’s the cheapest offer in this review. So, if you need a budget smoker that’s well-made and offers you lots of value for your money, then look here.

The first thing you’ll notice is the embossed aluminum construction, which is absolutely beautiful and straight to the point without any bells or whistles.

It uses a 120 Volt and 350-Watt element to produce a consistent 165° F that’s great for smoking.

You’ll have to be content with a lack of temperature control though and the fact that you can only use it outdoors because of its construction.

On the other hand, it’s attractively priced, easy to use, comes with a bag of wood fuel, and the maker backs it with a 2-year warranty.

More Detailed: Smokehouse 9900 Review

Pros:

• The cheapest smoker in this review
• Features a beautifully embossed aluminum design
• An easy-to-use system with no complications
• The package includes a 1.75 bag of wood fuel
• It’s backed by a 2-year manufacturer warranty

Cons:

• This smoker is for outdoor use only
• It has a fixed smoking temperature
• It’s made from aluminum and not steel like others

3. Char-Broil 14201677 – Best Budget Electric Smoker

Photo: Char-Broil

• Power: 1,500 Watts
• Cooking Surface: 505 square inches
• Material: Steel
• Temperature Range: 150 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit

Char-Broil presents this all-steel top-rated electric smoker, complete with a beautiful chrome handle to accent its black exterior. It’s well-priced and therefore a great offer for budget shoppers.

It also comes with a front-door mounted temperature gauge, plus two handles on each side, to make it easier to carry. You get chrome plated cooking racks, plus the power cord which integrates a thermostat.

The inside offers you up to 505 square inches of smoking space, enough space to cook meat for the family.

For cons, there are no fancy functions on this smoker and its solid non-glass door means you’ll always need to open the door to check your food.

On the brighter side, this offer is perfect for those on a budget, and it comes with a 1-year warranty.

Pros:

• Budget smoker with a large 505-sq. inch chamber
• Powerful 1,500-Watt heater for maximum power
• Features adjustable shelves for flexibility
• Its variable thermostat is easy to set and watch

Cons:

• There are no fancy functions
• You always have to open the door to check your meat

4. Masterbuilt 20073716 – Best Portable Electric Smoker

Photo: Masterbuilt

• Power: 1,400 Watts
• Temperature Range: Low/Medium/High

Different smokers have different unique features that make them stand out from the rest. This Masterbuilt 20073716 smoker is ideal for those searching for the smallest electric smokers.

It measures only 16 x 23 x 23 inches and weighs just 21 pounds, perfect for camping, RVing, and many other situations.

Its ease of use and maintenance is another plus for this smoker. There are simply three temperature settings: low, medium and high. It also comes with removable wood and water pans, making it easy to refill them.

One thing you might not like is this smoker’s rather short 90-day warranty. Still, it comes with legs that can either fold up or down, increasing its mobility and making it easier to store.

Pros:

• One of the most compact electric smokers out there
• Comes with only 3 easy temperature controls
• Includes a powerful 1,400 Watts of power
• Features removable racks inside
• Comes with an easy-to-see thermometer

Cons:

• The warranty period is only 90 days

5. Old Smokey OSES – Best Classic Electric Smoker

Photo: Old Smokey

• Power: 1,250 Watts
• Material: Stainless steel

How about a smoker that needs no water? The Old Smokey has a unique design that lets all the evaporating juice from the meat you’re smoking, slowly fall back on the meat. This makes it unnecessary to add water.

Having been on the market since the 1950s, there’s also no doubt about this Old Smokey’s success. It’s made from stainless steel to guarantee a long life.

For disadvantages, it gets very hot during use. Another disadvantage is the lack of a precise temperature management system, as with other smokers. You do get even heat destination though, and it’s easy to assemble and use.

It’s also easy to take apart and wash. Plus its handles are well-designed and include heat-resistant materials to keep your hands safe.

Pros:

• A popular smoker since the 1950s
• Classic & lovely stainless steel construction
• No need to add water to this smoker
• Backed by a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty

Cons:

• It can’t keep up a precise temperature when smoking
• The body gets very hot when in use
• It needs a first-time installation

6. Masterbuilt 20077615 – Digital Electric Smoker With 721 Sq. Inches

Photo: Masterbuilt

• Power: 800 Watts
• Cooking Surface: 721 square inches
• Material: Steel
• Temperature Range: Up to 275 degrees F

The 1,200-Watt Masterbuilt 20075315 smoker may turn out too big for you. So, if you liked everything about it except its largeness, then here’s a smaller version from Masterbuilt, measuring only 30 inches in interior height.

It features a digital control system as well and includes a remote to turn on its light, change temperature settings, and to control many other features.

You also get a built-in meat probe, plus a glass door, four chrome-plated racks, and a recipe CD. Unlike the larger smoker with its 975 sq. inches of smoking space and 1,200 Watts of power consumption, this smaller model uses only 800 Watts of power but offers 721 sq. inches of space.

These specifications allow this smoker to reach smoking temperatures up to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. It also features a removable drip pan, plus an interior light.

Negative points include its high price and the exposed control panel, but it seems worth every penny.

Pros:

• Digital control system makes your life easier
• It features a large 721 square inches of smoking space
• It includes an RF remote for light and temperature control
• The smoker gets powered by an 800-Watt heater

Cons:

• It’s an expensive smoker but worth every penny
• The control unit is not as sturdy as the rest of the smoker

7. Smokin-It #2 – 100% Stainless Steel Electric Smoker

Photo: Smokin-It

• Power: 800 Watts
• Cooking Surface: 225 square inches
• Material: Stainless steel
• Temperature Range: 100 -250 degrees F

Featuring a completely stainless steel construction, Smokin-It is one of the best electric smoker brands in the market, as you’ll see from the impressive features of this package.

It offers a double latched door for more safety, comes with four grilling racks, includes four caster wheels, and has side handles for easy movement.

In simple terms, this is a compact and portable smoker that you’re free to use as you wish. It features an 800-Watt heating element that’s easily replaceable, and you can set its thermostat between 100 and 250 degrees F.

Although it’s very well-built, its temperature control is not digital and its price is relatively high. When you consider its high-quality stainless steel construction and the impressive 3-year warranty, however, then it starts to seem worth it.

Pros:

• Features a totally stainless steel construction
• Double latched door for improved security
• Four grilling racks made of stainless steel
• Backed by a 3-year warranty

Cons:

• It’s relatively costly
• There’s nothing stylish about its design
• You get no electronic controls

8. Bradley Smoker BTDS76P – Premium Digital Electric Smoker

Photo: Bradley Smoker

• Power: 500 Watts + 125 Watts
• Cooking Surface: 2288 cubic inches
• Material: Epoxy steel & stainless steel
• Temperature Range: Up to 320 degrees Fahrenheit

Different people have different ideas about what makes the best electric smoker for the money. If your ideal smoker is all about full automation, then take a look at this premium smoker from Bradley.

It features a fully automated smoking system that allows you to produce any flavors of your choice. The heating element is also separate from the smoker element, allowing you the choice to either switch the smoker on or off.

In addition, you can select the level of smoke that you need for up to 8 hours, independent of the level of heat for up to 320 degrees Fahrenheit. There are four cooking racks as well.

For cons, you’ll need to assemble the entire thing first before first-use. There’s also no included temperature probe.

The interior features polished stainless steel while the exterior is a powder epoxy steel construction, making this smoker perfect for the outdoors. Bradley backs it with a 1-year warranty.

Pros:

• Nicely made premium smoker with powder epoxy steel
• Fully digital control puts you at ease
• Offers enough smoking space with 4 racks
• Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty

Cons:

• There’s no integrated temperature probe
• You’ll need to do a final assembly

9. Char-Broil 17402004 – Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker

Photo: Char-Broil

• Power: 800 Watts
• Cooking Surface: 725 square inches
• Material: Steel & glass
• Temperature Range: 100 – 250 degrees F

Char-Broil makes good electric smokers, designed for those who love the classic taste of smoked food but also love to adapt and benefit from new technologies.

This smoker gets uses an 800-Watt heating element and can regulate between 100 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Its insulated double wall construction makes it highly efficient in maintaining the heat in its 725-square-inch smoking chamber.

You also get four adjustable racks, a removable probe, and a digital control system that lets you smoke any meat like an expert, right from day one.

There are so many more features and functions in this impressive smoker, like its warming feature, the large 8.5 cup grease tray, and its manufacturer warranty, of course.

Pros:

• Deluxe smoker with 725 sq. inches of space
• A fully digital smoker control system
• Features a glass door and four adjustable racks
• The smoker comes with a meat probe

Cons:

• It’s the costlier of the two Char-Broils in this review
• The smoker comes with a hard-to-remove sticker

10. Smoke Hollow 26142E – 26-Inch Smoker With Adjustable Temperature

Photo: Smoke Hollow

• Power: 1,500 Watts
• Cooking Surface: 336 square inches
• Material: Steel
• Temperature Range: 175 – 325 degrees F

From Smoke hollow comes this 26-inch electric smoker, and it offers you a sturdy construction at an attractive price.

It packs a 1,500-Watt heating element, the highest in this review. This enables it to offer an adjustable temperature setting between 175 and 325 degrees Fahrenheit, which is wider than what other smokers offer and this lets you do more.

You also get stay-cool handles and two chrome-plated cooking grids to give you more flexibility with the room inside the smoker, which measures 14 x 12 inches and is 26 inches tall.

If you like stylish stuff, then you may want to overlook this one because it has nothing to offer in terms of aesthetics. It also lacks digital controls, but it’s made from steel though and painted over to guarantee a long life.

The best thing about this offer though is its price. It’s the second cheapest smoker on this list and the cheapest steel smoker because the Little Chief smoker is aluminum.

Pros:

• Includes a 1,500 Watt heating element for smoking and grilling
• Comes with two chrome plated racks
• Water pan & chip tray are both porcelain coated
• Comes with stay-cool handles

Cons:

• Its design is not visually appealing
• The controls are not digital and there’s no remote

Electric vs. Charcoal Smoker

Photo: charlesandhudson.com

Following is a side by side comparison of both smoker types based on specific factors:

1. Flavor

Smoking is all about the flavor and when it comes down to it, charcoal smokers have the advantage because there’s truly no substitute for a real fire and smoke.

Charcoal smokers produce better flavors because the heat releases the natural oils from the wood, which then gives the meat its smoked flavor.

Some electric smokers come with a smoke generator which lets you add wood pellets in the smoker, fire it up, and it will slowly smolder and produce smoke to flavor your food.

2. Temperature Range

When it comes to the range of temperatures that a smoker can get, charcoal smokers also offer a wider range, being able to produce lower and higher levels of temperatures than electric smokers.

On the other hand, electric smokers can produce more heat and keep up the desired temperature without needing your help. This is the main attraction of electric smokers.

3. Price

Charcoal smokers were always cheaper than electric ones, but things are rapidly changing and electric smokers are getting cheaper each day.

Both types of smokers currently balance out each other when it comes to price, so, as long as you need an average smoker, the price should not pose a problem.

4. Size & Space Requirements

As for size, electric smokers need less space for their components and are often more compact. They are okay for most family uses, but you may want to consider a charcoal smoker if you are planning on smoking large quantities of meat.

5. Flexibility  

Charcoal smokers are generally for the outdoors, but electric smokers are good for both. This will depend on the smoker’s design anyway and the manufacturer will show it.

Electric smokers win for flexibility because they can practically get used anywhere while charcoal smokers usually need specially designated spaces, usually outdoors with enough cleared area around it to prevent accidental fires.

6. Ease of Use

Electric smokers also win when you compare electric and charcoal smokers to ease of use. With an electric smoker, all you need is to set it and forget it, while charcoal smokers need steady attention and babysitting.

How to Buy the Best Electric Smoker

Photo: bradleysmoker.world

Following are these important aspects of an electric smoker that you should keep in mind and watch out for when making a choice.

1. Capacity/Cooking Surface

This is an important factor because smokers come in different sizes and you don’t want to get a too little or too big smoker. By factoring in the size of your family or the guests that you want to cook for, you’ll know your perfect smoker size.

2. Material

The material is an important consideration because different construction materials have different advantages like temperature management, aesthetics, and durability. You may want to choose a smoker based on the material that it got made from.

Most commonly used materials include aluminum, stainless steel, and powdered steel. For the racks inside, you’ll mostly find aluminum, chrome, and stainless steel racks, as well.

3. Temperature Range

The simple truth is that you can smoke your meat at nearly any temperature you want and you can easily do this with a charcoal smoker.

For electric smokers, you need to make sure that the smoker’s temperature control allows temperatures between 100 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit because this is the major temperature range for cooking all kinds of food.

4. Power

With electric smokers, most of the power gets used in producing heat, which raises the temperature inside the smoker. Power gets measured and stated in Watts, and most manufacturers will state their smoker’s power consumption.

There isn’t much need for power in smokers, except that larger smokers need more power and a more powerful smoker can more easily heat up a smoker after its door got opened.

5. Features & Versatility

You’ll find lots of smokers with many extra features. Some will offer impressive temperature control systems, while others may offer temperature probes for precise cooking or even a remote control system. Your choice here depends on your personal needs.

6. Ease of Use

Electric smokers are more user-friendly than charcoal smokers because of their ease of use. This means that most electric smokers are easy to use, but you can still opt for an electric smoker with a high-quality electronic control system for an even better ease of use.

7. Mobility

Many electric smokers come designed for versatile use and will feature casters for easy movements. They can also feature handles and other helpful features such as a weatherproof design. Your choice here depends on your environment and your lifestyle.

8. Brand, Quality & Warranty

You should also keep the warranty in mind because smokers are electric devices. The length of this warranty will depend on the smoker’s brand and its manufacturing quality.

Better brands will often produce higher quality smokers and back them up with longer warranties, their disadvantage being that they often cost more.

Some of these better brands to keep in mind include Masterbuilt, Bradley, Smokehouse, and Char-Broil.

Tips for Cleaning & Maintaining An Electric Smoker

Photo: Masterbuilt

Having the best electric smoker isn’t of much help if you can’t keep it up and clean. Following are helpful tips for keeping your electric smoker clean and maintaining your investment.

Tip 1: Be steady in cleaning your smoker and you’ll find that it’s not hard to keep clean at all. By cleaning your smoker immediately after each use, you’ll prevent the hardening and piling up of grease in the smoker, which of course gets more difficult to clean over time.

Tip 2: Pay attention to the manufacturer’s seasoning instructions and follow them. If there are no instructions that came with your smoker, consider applying a nice smelling oil inside it and then switching on the smoker for a while. This prevents its metal parts from rusting.

Tip 3: If you need to clean the smoker’s shelves or anything else with lots of grease on it, try heating it in your oven. This will heat them up enough to melt and release the fat completely. You can then wash with warm soapy water later.

Tip 4: Clean your tools from time to time to guarantee the proper functioning of the smoker. These include thermostats, probes, and any other included hardware.

Tip 5: Avoid using water or wet cloths to clean any electronic parts of the smoker. Electronic and water don’t go I hand in hand, so just use a dry cloth to clean sensitive components clean.

Tip 6: Use a damp cloth to clean the exterior of your smoker once in a while or after each use, depending on how you see fit. If the stains are tough, then try using warm soapy water and the cloth to clean the stain.

Tip 7: Remember to always switch off the unit from the mains AC or even plug it out completely after each use, especially if the smoker is located outdoors and there’s a chance of rain or other bad weather.

Read More: Useful Tips and Tricks when Using Electric Smoker

Conclusion

We’ve come to the end of this review of the best electric smokers and you’ve seen the best offers out there for different types of buyers and families.

For the best overall electric smoker, we recommend the Masterbuilt 20075315 with its 1,200 Watts of power, 975 sq. inches, and remote control.

For budget shoppers, the Char-Broil 14201677 is a great offer with 1,500 Watts, 505 sq. inches, and a very attractive price.

For those who simply want the very best, the Bradley Smoker BTDS76P is the right smoker with all the right features.