In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsThe Bottom LineChoosing a SmokerOur Smoker TestsWe Also ConsideredCommon QuestionsOur Trusted Expertise
In This ArticleView All
In This Article
View All
Our Top Picks
Reviews
The Bottom Line
Choosing a Smoker
Our Smoker Tests
We Also Considered
Common Questions
Our Trusted Expertise
Photo:EatingWell / Russell Kilgore
EatingWell / Russell Kilgore
For those passionate about barbecue, choosing the right smoker is a decision that goes beyond taste. Learning to smoke your own meats opens up an entirely new culinary horizon of fork-tender brisket and delicately flavored salmon. Smoking meats allows you to manipulate the flavor profiles of different proteins, letting you experiment with how heat and different types of wood chips or pellets can transform a dish. But choosing from among the different options can be paralyzing. Where do you even start?To narrow things down, we tested 21 top-tier gas and electric smokers to find our favorites. We examined each smoker’s features, advantages and unique characteristics to determine the best picks to assist you on your journey into the world of delectable smoked meats. Here’s what we found.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Camp Chef 24-Inch Vertical Gas Smoker at Amazon$440Jump to ReviewBest Electric Smoker:Dyna-Glo 30-Inch Digital Bluetooth Electric Smoker at Amazon$392Jump to ReviewBest Gas Smoker:Pit Boss PBV3G1 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker at Amazon$350Jump to ReviewBest Value:Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker at Amazon$220Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:Bradley Smoker P10 4-Rack Electric Smoker at Amazon$799Jump to Review
For those passionate about barbecue, choosing the right smoker is a decision that goes beyond taste. Learning to smoke your own meats opens up an entirely new culinary horizon of fork-tender brisket and delicately flavored salmon. Smoking meats allows you to manipulate the flavor profiles of different proteins, letting you experiment with how heat and different types of wood chips or pellets can transform a dish. But choosing from among the different options can be paralyzing. Where do you even start?
To narrow things down, we tested 21 top-tier gas and electric smokers to find our favorites. We examined each smoker’s features, advantages and unique characteristics to determine the best picks to assist you on your journey into the world of delectable smoked meats. Here’s what we found.
Our Top PicksBest Overall:Camp Chef 24-Inch Vertical Gas Smoker at Amazon$440Jump to ReviewBest Electric Smoker:Dyna-Glo 30-Inch Digital Bluetooth Electric Smoker at Amazon$392Jump to ReviewBest Gas Smoker:Pit Boss PBV3G1 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker at Amazon$350Jump to ReviewBest Value:Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker at Amazon$220Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:Bradley Smoker P10 4-Rack Electric Smoker at Amazon$799Jump to Review
Best Overall:Camp Chef 24-Inch Vertical Gas Smoker at Amazon$440Jump to ReviewBest Electric Smoker:Dyna-Glo 30-Inch Digital Bluetooth Electric Smoker at Amazon$392Jump to ReviewBest Gas Smoker:Pit Boss PBV3G1 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker at Amazon$350Jump to ReviewBest Value:Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker at Amazon$220Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:Bradley Smoker P10 4-Rack Electric Smoker at Amazon$799Jump to Review
Best Overall:Camp Chef 24-Inch Vertical Gas Smoker at Amazon$440Jump to Review
Best Overall:Camp Chef 24-Inch Vertical Gas Smoker at Amazon$440
Best Overall:
Best Electric Smoker:Dyna-Glo 30-Inch Digital Bluetooth Electric Smoker at Amazon$392Jump to Review
Best Electric Smoker:Dyna-Glo 30-Inch Digital Bluetooth Electric Smoker at Amazon$392
Best Electric Smoker:
Best Gas Smoker:Pit Boss PBV3G1 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker at Amazon$350Jump to Review
Best Gas Smoker:Pit Boss PBV3G1 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker at Amazon$350
Best Gas Smoker:
Best Value:Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker at Amazon$220Jump to Review
Best Value:Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker at Amazon$220
Best Value:
Best Splurge:Bradley Smoker P10 4-Rack Electric Smoker at Amazon$799Jump to Review
Best Splurge:Bradley Smoker P10 4-Rack Electric Smoker at Amazon$799
Best Splurge:
Best OverallCamp Chef 24-Inch Vertical Gas SmokerPHOTO: Amazon$440$392 at Amazon$400 at Home DepotView on Bbqguys.com
Best OverallCamp Chef 24-Inch Vertical Gas Smoker
Best Overall
Camp Chef 24-Inch Vertical Gas Smoker
PHOTO: Amazon
$440$392 at Amazon$400 at Home DepotView on Bbqguys.com
What we like:The Camp Chef’s precise temperature control system makes it easy to fine-tune for different proteins.
What to know:This smoker’s size and weight (and lack of wheels) made it cumbersome to move, and it was challenging to assemble.
We definitely felt that “vault” was an accurate descriptor for this smoker. The walls are well-insulated, and everything from the tight seal on the door to the craftsmanship of the hinges felt very durable and thoughtfully designed. The temperature dial is extremely responsive, so much so that we mainly relied on the dampers to make small adjustments to the Smoke Vault’s temperature. Once we found that sweet spot, this smoker required very little hands-on work in adding water or wood chips. The drip pan is easy to remove and large enough to catch most grease, so cleaning this smoker proved surprisingly painless.
As with the other models, we cooked chicken, ribs and salmon to test its capabilities. The ribs, in particular, stood out, emerging with a quarter-inch smoke ring that foreshadowed a clean, pleasant flavor and toothsome texture. The smoke vault produced similarly impressive results with the other proteins we tested, beating 20 challengers for our choice as the best overall smoker in any category.
Heat Source:Gas |Cooking Area:903 sq. in. |Weight:75 lbs. |Temperature Range:160-350°F |Number of Shelves/Racks:2, plus jerky/seafood smoking rack
PHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Russell Kilgore
Best Electric SmokerDyna-Glo 30-Inch Digital Bluetooth Electric SmokerPHOTO: Amazon$392 at Amazon$276 at Wayfair$288 at Home Depot
Best Electric SmokerDyna-Glo 30-Inch Digital Bluetooth Electric Smoker
Best Electric Smoker
Dyna-Glo 30-Inch Digital Bluetooth Electric Smoker
$392 at Amazon$276 at Wayfair$288 at Home Depot
What we like:The Dyna-Glo integrates Bluetooth technology and an intentional, intuitive design.
What to know:The small wheels on the base made it difficult to move the smoker.
With the Dyna-Glo’s roomy, 30-inch cooking chamber, you have over 730 square inches of cooking space and four cooking grates, which leaves plenty of space for ribs, wings and more. We found it very easy to assemble, requiring only a Phillips screwdriver, and the unit has wheels on its base and a handle attached to the back to make it easier to move around. This is key, as this smoker’s cord is a bit short; most folks will want an extension cord to ensure the Dyna-Glo remains a safe distance from one’s house.
The insulated, double-walled design retained heat well, and the unit returned to temperature quickly if we had to open the door to add wood chips or water. The Dyna-Glo also has a built-in meat probe that ensures precise internal temperature monitoring, almost guaranteeing smoked perfection. Indeed, our salmon turned out beautifully, with a balanced, smoky flavor that didn’t overpower the delicate fish. The probe and Bluetooth connectivity make this an excellent smoker for pit bosses and novices alike, and at a price that makes it accessible to entry-level barbecue enthusiasts.
Heat Source:Electric |Cooking Area:732 sq. in. |Weight:71 lbs. |Temperature Range:180-275°F |Number of Shelves/Racks:4
Best Gas SmokerPit Boss PBV3G1 3-Series Gas Vertical SmokerPHOTO: Amazon$350 at Amazon$27 at WalmartView on Pitboss-grills.com
Best Gas SmokerPit Boss PBV3G1 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker
Best Gas Smoker
Pit Boss PBV3G1 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker
$350 at Amazon$27 at WalmartView on Pitboss-grills.com
What we like:You can access the wood chip tray and grease drawers externally, so you don’t have to open the door and disrupt the smoker’s temperature.
What to know:We found that maintaining the temperature took some practice and careful monitoring, which beginners especially may not enjoy.
The Pit Boss is more hands-on than some other models we tested, but we also found that this was not a deterrent for those who want a more interactive experience, as opposed to more set-it-and-forget-it models. Finding and maintaining an ideal temperature involved experimentation with the dual-burner system and the air vents. Once we did, however, the temperature held steady. This was made possible thanks to the tight seal on the door and the externally accessible wood chip tray, which was easy to switch out without disrupting the flow of heat. Our wings came out delightfully juicy, with a pleasant snap to the skin and infused with a delicate smoky flavor. We were also able to cook some excellent racks of ribs—we could easily fit two in the Pit Boss without fear of overcrowding.
Heat Source:Gas |Cooking Area:880 sq. in. |Weight:49 lbs. |Temperature Range:100-320°F |Number of Shelves/Racks:4
PHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Russell KilgorePHOTO: EatingWell / Russell Kilgore
Best ValueChar-Broil Analog Electric SmokerPHOTO: Amazon$220$191 at Amazon$210 at Farmandfleet.com
Best ValueChar-Broil Analog Electric Smoker
Best Value
Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker
$220$191 at Amazon$210 at Farmandfleet.com
What we like:This little electric unit is easy to clean, has a surprisingly generous capacity for its size and is easy to operate, providing excellent value for its price.
What to know:We wish the water tray were easier to access, especially when the unit is hot and in use; it’s easy to slosh water around.
The Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker may not have a lot of frills, but its simple interface belies a surprisingly generous capacity and high-quality smoke. An analog dial controls the temperature, and there are three pull-out trays: one for drippings, one for water and one for wood chips. While this unit does not have wheels, it has a handle on each side for transport. While wheels would have made this process easier, the Char-Broil tips the scale at just over 50 pounds, making this a less intimidating prospect.
If you’re looking for a similar value but prefer cooking with propane, Char-Broil alsomakes a gas version(view at Amazon). This model has similar features (and drawbacks, like a fiddly water tray), minus the need for an electric outlet.
Heat Source:Electric |Cooking Area:544 sq. in. |Weight:56 lbs. |Temperature Range:Up to 400 °F |Number of Shelves/Racks:3
Best SplurgeBradley Smoker P10 4-Rack Electric SmokerPHOTO: Amazon$799 at Amazon$799 at WalmartView on Bradleysmoker.com
Best SplurgeBradley Smoker P10 4-Rack Electric Smoker
Best Splurge
Bradley Smoker P10 4-Rack Electric Smoker
$799 at Amazon$799 at WalmartView on Bradleysmoker.com
What we like:The Bradley’s digital temperature regulation and consistency made us feel like barbecue experts (regardless of our actual level of experience).
What to know:The smoke is created using wood bisquettes instead of chips, and we found these left an aftertaste on proteins that required a longer smoke.
One thing we did note during our tests was that proteins requiring a longer smoke, like ribs, sometimes took on a more bitter smoked flavor. Proteins that required less time, like the salmon, presented a clean, light flavor. We think this is partly due to the bisquettes, so some smoke time and intensity adjustments may be required before you find that sweet spot.
Heat Source:Electric |Cooking Area:806 sq. in. |Weight:79 lbs. |Temperature Range:86-320°F |Number of Shelves/Racks:4
The Bottom Line: The Best Smoker
TheCamp Chef Smoke Vault 24-Inch Vertical Gas Smoker(view on Amazon) clinches the title of the best overall smoker, thanks to its roomy 24-inch vertical cooking chamber, accurate temperature control and sturdy build. Designed for beginners and seasoned barbecue enthusiasts, its user-friendliness made it our favorite for consistent, tasty results. Our top choice in the electric smoker category is theDyna-Glo 30-Inch Digital Bluetooth Electric Smoker(view on Amazon). This smoker seamlessly integrates Bluetooth technology for remote control and monitoring while boasting a generous 30-inch cooking chamber, making it an excellent choice for users of all skill levels.
When selecting the best smoker for your at-home barbequing needs, there’s much to consider. Keeping the following in mind can help you make the best choice:
Easy-To-Assemble Units Make for a Better Experience
Features Like Adjustable Racks and Longer Cords Make a Difference
Design matters. It influences functionality and ease of use, providing convenient access to the cooking chamber and controls for a streamlined experience. An intelligently designed smoker ensures even heat distribution, which prevents uneven results, and includes features like adjustable racks and temperature gauges to enhance versatility. Consider how easy it is to access items like the water pan or chip tray during cooking, both for convenience and to maintain an even cooking temperature. Small details, like a longer cord or the presence of wheels, can significantly impact your experience.
Decide How Involved You Want to Be in the Process
Intuitive controls, clear instructions and simple setup let you concentrate on the art of smoking rather than complex procedures. Features such as easily accessible chambers, simple temperature controls and minimal maintenance can save you time and effort. This is also where you can decide how involved you want to be in the process. If half the fun is adjusting your temperatures and smoke levels, you may prefer a more hands-on smoker. However, if you’re a beginner (or just busy!), a more automated model may be a better choice.
Consistency and Precise Temperature Control Always Wins
The best smokers demonstrate consistent, precise temperature control. Reliable heat management ensures even cooking, preventing under- or overcooking and delivering juicy, flavorful meat.
Accessible Parts Will Make Cleaning Easier
Aside from being convenient, regular cleaning is essential for maintaining performance and longevity. Grease accumulation can interfere with heat distribution, affecting results and flavor. A user-friendly design with easily removable drip trays and cooking racks makes this process less tedious.
We selected our best smokers based on both quantitative information (size, number of racks, temperature range, weight, materials) and qualitative information from our testing team of professional and home chefs. We rated the ease of attaching the propane tank (if applicable) and how easy it was to control and monitor the smoker’s temperature once assembled. Smokers in this roundup were tested on the results of both a shorter and a longer smoke on proteins like salmon (a more delicate protein requiring a shorter smoke), chicken wings, and ribs. We also tested the smokers’ internal temperature for accuracy. Lastly, we determined if the smoker was easy to clean and if items like the drip pan could be accessed without much effort.
Masterbuilt 30-Inch Digital Electric Smoker($280 at Amazon):While this product performed as expected, it was a little slow and inconsistent with results. For the price, it delivers a nice smoke.
Bradley Smoker 4-Rack Outdoor Electric Smoker($429 at Amazon):This product can fit 20 wings on one rack without touching while still being compact enough to fit just about anywhere. However, the design and its many parts make it laborious to clean.
Pit Boss Grills 3-Series Digital Vertical Electric Smoker($349 at Amazon):The unit is easy to move and fits a whole rack of ribs with plenty of room, but we found the control panel a bit confusing. If you’re a fan of reading the manual closely, this product should do you just fine.
Cuisinart Vertical Electric Smoker($200 at Amazon):This unit has a short cord and a finicky metal wood chip pan, and we had a hard time producing smoke. It’s not a bad outdoor oven if that’s what you’re looking for!
Dyna-Glo 30-Inch Analog Electric Smoker($288 at Amazon):We found the door latch flimsy and the temperature challenging to maintain. We expected more for the price.
Are gas smokers better than electric smokers?
Choosing between gas and electric smokers depends on personal preferences, convenience, and desired cooking experience.Gas smokersheat quickly, offering a traditional barbecue flavor with easy temperature control, portability, and no need for an electrical outlet. On the flip side,electric smokersare user-friendly, featuring digital controls for precise temperature settings and consistent low and slow cooking.
How are smokers different from standard grills?
Smokers and grills vary in a lot of ways, including:
Cooking Method: Smokersare your low and slow maestros, using indirect heat and smoke for meats that fall off the bone, whilegrillscrank up the heat using gas, charcoal or electric sources. They’re all all about quick cooking, whether it’smeat, veggies or even fruit.
Temperature: Smokersuselower temps, around 180°F to 275°F, to break down meat tissues and produce that smoky charm.Grills, however, turn up the heat, hitting a sizzling 350°F to 700°F, perfect for searing and caramelizing like a boss.
Flavor Profile: Smokersuse wood chips, and different types of wood offer a variety of smoky vibes.Grillsexcel at charred and seared notes, amplifying a protein’s natural flavors.
Versatility:Withsmokers,slow and steady wins the race, perfect for barbecue classics like brisket and ribs. High-heat moves? Not their strong suit. With a bit of know-how,grillshave a great deal ofversatility. Direct grilling, indirect grilling,even a little smokingwith the right accessories—they’ve got the whole playbook.
Ultimately, choosing between a smoker and a grill depends on your cooking style, flavor cravings and the culinary vibes you’re after. Your backyard, your rules.
How do you clean a gas smoker vs. an electric smoker?
Of course, before initiating any of these steps, take the time to review your user manual for your manufacturer’s recommendations. Cleaning your smoker regularly will help ensure it lasts for years while continuing to provide a clean, tasty smoke.
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