Buying guide

The Best Electric Smoker

Johnny Alto, illustrated portraitResearched by · Updated October 12, 2026

Research pick: Based on product documentation and owner discussions. How we research →

Short answer: Our top pick is the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker. The consensus first electric smoker.

Top pickMasterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric SmokerView offer →
Electric Smoker
Top pick

Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker

The consensus first electric smoker.

Digital thermostatChip loadingCapacity & racks
View on Amazon Product image.

An electric smoker is the easiest way into real smoked food: you set a temperature, add wood chips, and walk away, with no fire to babysit. It will not build the same bark or smoke ring as a charcoal or offset rig, but for hands-off ribs, brisket, and jerky that come out consistent every time, it is hard to beat. Here is the pick that comes up most, plus a larger option.

Top picks at a glance

Budget analog

a basic analog electric smoker

A simple dial-controlled electric smoker costs less but you manage temperature by feel with the dial.

What should you look for in electric smoker?

A few things separate a good electric smoker from a frustrating one: digital thermostat, chip loading, capacity & racks, and insulation. Weigh these before you buy.

What are the best alternatives?

More capacity

Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker

The same easy digital smoker in a taller cabinet, with room for a full packer brisket or a turkey. Get this if you cook for a crowd or want to smoke large cuts whole.

View on Amazon
Budget analog

a basic analog electric smoker

A simple dial-controlled electric smoker costs less but you manage temperature by feel with the dial. Fine for a first cheap experiment, but the digital models are far more consistent.

Bottom line: the Masterbuilt 30-inch is the easy, consistent electric smoker most people should start with; size up to the 40-inch for big cuts and crowds.

Our top pickMasterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker
View on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What is the best electric smoker?

Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker. The consensus first electric smoker.

What should you look for in electric smoker?

Focus on digital thermostat, chip loading, capacity & racks, and insulation.

What is a good alternative to the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker?

The Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker. The same easy digital smoker in a taller cabinet, with room for a full packer brisket or a turkey. Get this if you cook for a crowd or want to smoke large cuts whole.

Related buying guides

This is a research-based buying guide, not a personal hands-on review. Product details, prices, and availability can change; confirm the current listing on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

← More Guides: A–F · All guides · How we research · About · Affiliate Disclosure · Privacy Policy · Contact