Love arranging BBQ parties on your porch? Then you surely must miss the anticipation of consuming delicious delicacies while smelling the juicy meat as it is being prepared. An electric smoker does this job the quickest and with most efficacy.
We also realized how beneficial an electric smoker could be once we used it ourselves. Therefore, we thought we should introduce the five best digital electric smokers to you so that you can enjoy the perks too.
Our top 5 picks were tried and tested to ensure we can make the best recommendations for you. You will also agree with us once you try out any of our suggestions. So, stick with us till the end to find out!
#List Of The Best Electric Smoker – Our Editor’s Pick:
5 Best Digital Electric Smoker Reviews
Now that you know what features make an electric smoker the best in the market, let’s not make you wait any longer and quickly move onto our comprehensive reviews:
1. Masterbuilt MB20071117
Manufactured by Masterbuilt, the first pick on our list is an excellent digital smoker that can get its work done in the most effective and efficient manner. It comes with an electric cord which can be used to power the equipment. Apart from this, the smoker has an elegant appearance and is coated in a stylish black color.
The device only has a weight of 45.9 pounds, so it isn’t very heavy and quite easy to move. In addition to this, it has plenty of compartment space, such as 20.47″, 19.88″, and 33.26″ in terms of breadth, length, and height. Besides, it makes use of electricity as its central power source to properly grill the meat.
For the convenience of control, the equipment contains on and off buttons on its digital panel. Moreover, you will also be able to oversee the cooking temperature and time surpassed. This will help you to have full control over the BBQ process. On top of this, you will be able to turn the temperature as high as 275°F.
- Contains a digital panel with an on and off button
- Maximum temperature capacity is 275°F
- Large capacity inside
- Tray for loading woodchips provided
- Comes with a thermostat for better temperature control
- Black paint outside tends to peel
2. Char-Broil 17202004
The second pick on this list is a high-quality digital electric smoker from the renowned brand Char-Broil. This model is named deluxe, just like the service it provides. It can be powered using an electric cord. Its outer appearance is quite polished and fine, and it bears a silver coating to complete its look.
This device is a bit heavier than the previous pick weighing 50.2 pounds. Its capacity, too, is smaller. However, it is perfect for those who don’t want to grill a lot of meat at once and want something smaller for intimate family events.
The internal chamber has dimensions of 16.5 x 18.1 x 32.5 inches in terms of length, breadth, and height, respectively.
Also, the double-layered wall of this smoker is fully insulated to prevent heat from escaping the combustion chamber and ruining the grill. Moreover, it features a control panel that comes with an LED display, making it easier for the viewer to read its content.
Lastly, you will get a removable thermometer to measure the temperature.
- Comes with a removable thermometer
- Easy to read LED display
- Its wall is insulated
- Contains a glass door to view inside
- Boasts a steel lock
- A bit heavy
- Smaller compartment
3. Bradley Smoker BTDS76P 990216
If budget isn’t an issue, our 3rd pick will be great for you since it does not only has superior quality but is also equipped with the best features. Manufactured by Bradley smoker, the equipment looks a bit vintage and comes in the color silver. It is powered by an electric cord and weighs 57.5 pounds.
Although the smoker is quite heavy, its features make up for the extra weight. The dimensions of its internal chamber are as follows: 14 x 17 x 31 inches in terms of length, breadth, and height, respectively. Moreover, its exterior is made of epoxy steel construction, which gives it maximum durability.
The internal chamber, too, is constructed with high-quality polished stainless steel. On top of this, you can clean up its outdoor smoker without any hassle due to its unique design. Its combustion chamber comes with four racks in total that can accommodate enough meat inside for a small get-together.
- Features four cooking racks
- Cool smoke can be retained for up to 8 hours
- Maximum temperature is 320°F
- Very durable and strong construction
- Easy to install
- Too heavy
- Does not have a strong door seal
4. Masterbuilt MB20073519
Another outstanding digital smoker from Masterbuilt has made it to our list as the 4th pick. The name of this model is Bluetooth digital which gives a hint about the uniqueness of this particular equipment. Although it weighs a bit high at 54 pounds, it is loaded with distinct features that help it create a class of its own.
The external outlook of the device is very stylish and is coated with black paint. To power the equipment, you need to connect it to an electric power source. And the best feature of this smoker is its Bluetooth Smart technology which allows you to regulate its temperature and lighting conveniently.
Also, the capacity of the internal chamber of this smoker is very large, with its length, breadth, and height being 19.88 x 20.66 x 33.46 inches, respectively. There are four separate racks to grill meat on this smoker, and each is coated with chrome to give it superior durability. Lastly, there is a built-in thermometer installed.
- Convenient temperature controlling with a built-in thermometer
- Four racks
- Racks are coated with chrome
- Bluetooth technology
- Additional tray for loading wood chips
- Bluetooth disconnects frequently
- LED screen is difficult to read in daylight
5. Char-Broil 19202101
The last and fifth pick on our list is a perfect digital electric smoker for people looking for something reasonable yet effective. This one is manufactured by Char-Broil and is loaded with amazing features. Its color is black while it weighs 58.7 pounds.
Despite being a bit bulky, there is plenty of cooking space inside the smoker, with an area of 725 square inches. In addition to this, its external wall is fully insulated and double-layered. Moreover, you will get a removable food thermometer with it, which you can use to monitor the temperature.
There is also an advanced control panel that is easy to use. It has an LED display which is easy for the eyes too. On top of this, there is a glass door for convenient monitoring of the food being cooked inside. To ensure there is no escape of heat from the inside of the chamber, there is also a tight-seal latch provided outside.
- Equipped with a glass door
- Insulated wall
- Comes with a tight latch
- LED display
- Contains an advanced control panel
- A bit bulky in terms of weight
- Not very durable
Top 5 Digital Electric Smoker Comparison Table
Product Title | Brand | Color | Fuel Type | Item Weight | Item Dimension | Review |
Masterbuilt MB20071117 | Masterbuilt | Black | Electric | 45.9 Pounds | 19.88 x 20.47 x 33.26 inches | |
Masterbuilt MB20073519 | Masterbuilt MB20073519 | Black | Electric | 54 Pounds | 19.88 x 20.66 x 33.46 inches | |
Char-Broil 19202101 | Char-Broil | Black | Electric | 58.7 Pounds | 32.5 x 18.1 x 16.5 inches | |
Char-Broil 17202004 | Char-Broil | Silver | Electric | 50.2 Pounds | 16.5 x 18.1 x 32.5 inches | |
Bradley Smoker BTDS76P | Bradley Smoker | Silver | Electric | 57.5 Pounds | 14 x 17 x 31 inches |
Things to Consider Before Buying
Before we delve into the reviews of the picks we have made, let’s give you an idea about the factors you need to consider before making your final pick. Knowing these tricks and tips beforehand will help you choose the best one and make your investment worthwhile.
Temperature Control
The most salient feature needed in a digital electric smoker is regulating the temperature as you like. Some like their grilled meat a bit overdone and crispy, while some prefer it soft and juicy. To achieve the perfect texture, you should check whether the smoker has the feature of temperature regulation.
And the best way to check the temperature is through a thermostat or a rheostat. So, make sure the smoker you are going for is equipped with either of these.
Ventilation System
The most efficient smokers come with caveats that create a ventilation system inside the equipment’s cooking chamber. Due to these caveats, heat, and smoke are released out of the combustion chamber. Thus, the optimum temperature is maintained inside, resulting in perfectly cooked tender meat.
Method of Heat Flow
There are different ways in which heat flows inside a digital electric smoker. Most of the methods are effective and useful. However, there is one you should be wary about if you are not an expert griller.
If the smoker is equipped with convection heat sources at its bottom or sides, the meat will be cooked quickly. However, it might end up burnt and tasteless if not watched carefully.
Provision to Include Woodchips or Charcoal
Although an electric smoker offers you grilled meat in a quick and efficient manner, it might lack the traditional smoky BBQ taste if a vital feature is not present in it. This vital feature is the provision to add charcoal or wood pellets inside the combustion chamber.
Ensure that the smoker contains an additional tray to burn these components so that you don’t miss out on the original taste of smoky BBQ.
How Do Electric Smokers Work?
A digital electric smoker is a highly useful device that can complete the job of grilling meat in the quickest time. Setting it up does not require much hassle, and its source of power comes from electricity. Using an electric cord, you can get the device up and running.
The procedure adapting to which the smoker cooks meat is quite simple. Mainly, the method of heat convection is used inside the heating chamber to do so. Firstly, using the power of electricity, the combustion chamber gets heated. Next, the surrounding air carries this heat throughout the compartment to disperse it across the racks.
Sometimes, a separate rack for burning wood or charcoal is provided. The burnt air from these components as well circulates inside the chamber and gives the meat a smoky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is electric or propane better for smoking?
Both the fuel sources have their own pros and cons. If you desire the perfect smoky taste of meat that is offered by a charcoal grill, then propane is a better candidate for smoking. However, if you wish for better control and precise heating on delicate items like fish, it is best to go for an electric smoker.
- Are electric smokers as good as charcoal?
Electric smokers offer the convenience and precision that you won’t get using a charcoal grill. However, the distinct flavor of charcoal is absent in meat cooked on electric grills.
- Can you use an electric smoker in the house?
Yes, an electric smoker is definitely safe to use indoors. Since it does not emit any gas like the other types of smokers, there isn’t much risk involved.
- How do you clean an electric smoker?
In order to clean up the build-up inside an electric smoker, first, you need to ensure it is completely cooled off. Then, you will have to remove all of its racks and water pan. Afterward, you can use warm and soapy water inside the chamber along with a bristle brush or sponge to rub off all the residue inside.
You should also clean up the racks using soap, water, and a brush. Then, wait for everything to be dry before putting it back together.
- What should I look for when buying an electric smoker?
While buying an electric smoker, it is important to check whether it comes with a thermostat or thermometer of its own. You should also see if it has an additional tray to burn woodchips or charcoal. This will give you the desired smoky flavor, which is usually missing in meat cooked on electric grills.
Final Words
Our suggestions of the best digital electric smoker were made after careful consideration keeping in mind the needs of different types of consumers. So, follow our recommendations, and you will surely not be dissatisfied.