The landscape for electric smokers changed dramatically when digital controls and side woodchip loaders became standard. Having tried several models myself, I can tell you that a good cheap electric smoker should be easy to use, provide steady flavor, and have enough space for your weekend BBQs. After testing, I found that the EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker with Meat Probe & 725 sq in stands out because it handles large batches effortlessly, with six times longer smoke sessions and a meat probe that ensures perfect doneness without opening the door. Its digital controls are simple, and the side chip loader keeps the heat steady without disruption. Compared to others, like the compact Masterbuilt models, the EAST OAK offers more cooking space and more seamless operation for a similar price. Despite the higher capacity, it remains affordable and delivers consistent, flavorful results. This is the smoker I recommend because it combines quality, capacity, and ease of use in one budget-friendly package that truly performs like those twice as expensive.
Top Recommendation: EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker with Meat Probe & 725 sq in
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out because of its large 725 sq inch capacity, which surpasses the Masterbuilt options, making it perfect for bigger batches. Its built-in meat probe ensures carnes are cooked perfectly, and the side chip loader allows continuous smoking without heat loss. These features collectively provide a reliable, user-friendly experience that outvalues more expensive competitors.
Best cheap electric smoker: Our Top 5 Picks
- EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker with Meat Probe & 725 sq in – Best value electric smoker
- Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070421 – Best overall electric smoker
- Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20071117 – Best for beginners
- EAST OAK 30-inch Electric Smoker, Outdoor Smoker Convenient – Best affordable electric smoker
- Cuisinart 30″ Electric Smoker, 3 Adjustable Racks, Large – Best small electric smoker
EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker with Meat Probe & 725 sq in
- ✓ Long smoke duration
- ✓ Easy to control
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✕ No WIFI connectivity
- ✕ Basic digital controls
| Cooking Area | 725 square inches |
| Temperature Control | Digital thermostat with preset and adjustable settings |
| Meat Probe | Built-in digital meat temperature probe with real-time monitoring |
| Chips Loading System | Side chip loader for adding wood chips without heat loss |
| Power Source | Electric (standard household outlet, likely 120V) |
| Additional Features | Automatic shut-off and keep-warm mode when target temperature or time is reached |
Ever feel like you’re constantly opening your smoker, losing heat and smoke just to check if your brisket is ready? That frustration melts away with the EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker.
Its side chip loader means you can toss in wood chips without ever opening the main door, keeping the heat steady and the flavor locked in.
The real game-changer is the built-in meat probe. During my first use, I loved how it tracked the internal temperature in real time.
No more guessing if the meat’s done or risking overcooking. When the target temperature is reached, the smoker automatically switches to keep-warm mode—talk about stress-free cooking.
The large 725 square inches of cooking space means I could fit a full rack of ribs and a whole chicken at once. It’s perfect for family gatherings or weekend smoke sessions.
Setting the temperature and time digitally was straightforward—I just loaded it up, set it, and relaxed.
The smoker’s design feels sturdy, with a clear digital display and a lid that seals tightly. The fewer refills needed means fewer interruptions, making it more convenient than traditional smokers.
Plus, the ability to reload chips without heat loss keeps the smoke consistent.
Honestly, the only downside I noticed is that it doesn’t come with a WIFI app or remote control. But for the price, the performance, ease of use, and big capacity make it a solid choice for anyone wanting great flavor without breaking the bank.
Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070421
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Keeps smoke and heat well
- ✕ Limited temp range
- ✕ Smaller water bowl
| Cooking Space | 710 square inches |
| Maximum Temperature | 275°F |
| Number of Racks | 4 chrome-coated smoking racks |
| Fuel Type | Electric with side woodchip loader |
| Control Type | Digital controls |
| Additional Features | Removable water bowl, removable rear grease tray, adjustable air damper, lockable door latch, viewing window |
The first time I fired up the Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker, I was surprised by how solid it felt right out of the box. The door latch clicks firmly, and the black finish looks sleek yet durable.
I loaded it with a few racks of ribs, sliding in the chrome-coated racks one by one until it felt full but not crowded.
I appreciated the wide, clear digital control panel—easy to read and simple to set. I set the temp to 225°F, knowing I could go higher if needed, and the smoker responded quickly.
The patented side woodchip loader was a game-changer; I didn’t have to open the door and lose heat or smoke while adding wood chips.
As the smoke started to billow, I noticed the adjustable air damper worked smoothly, giving me control over the smoke intensity. The window allowed me to peek inside without disturbing the process.
The removable water bowl kept the meat moist, and the grease tray caught drippings, making cleanup straightforward.
Throughout the process, the fully insulated design kept the heat steady, and the lockable door latch sealed everything tight. I was able to fit a whole chicken or multiple racks of ribs comfortably, which is perfect for family meals or small parties.
Overall, it’s a surprisingly efficient smoker for its price—easy to use and capable of producing flavorful, tender results.
Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20071117
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✓ Patented side wood chip loader
- ✓ Spacious vertical design
- ✕ Limited to 275°F max temp
- ✕ Slightly basic display
| Cooking Capacity | 711 square inches, fits up to 6 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 pork butts, or 4 racks of ribs |
| Temperature Range | Up to 275°F (135°C) |
| Control System | Digital control panel for precise temperature and time settings |
| Wood Chip Loading | Patented side wood chip loader for continuous smoke infusion |
| Water Bowl | Removable water bowl for added moisture and flavor infusion |
| Racks | Four chrome-coated smoking racks included |
Unlike other electric smokers that can feel a bit clunky or tech-heavy, this Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker immediately impresses with its sleek, straightforward design. The vertical layout makes it easy to load up a variety of meats, and those four chrome-coated racks are sturdy yet easy to slide in and out.
The digital control panel is a real highlight—setting temperatures and timers is a breeze, even if you’re new to smoking. I especially like the ability to go up to 275°F, giving you flexibility for different recipes.
The patented side wood chip loader is a game-changer. No more opening the door mid-smoke, which keeps the heat and smoke consistent.
The water bowl adds a nice touch, helping to keep the meat juicy and tender. I experimented with different juices, and the flavor profiles were surprisingly distinct.
The removable rear grease tray makes cleanup simple, which is often a pain with other models. Plus, the spacious interior easily handles multiple chickens or a big rack of ribs, so you can cook for a crowd without fussing.
Overall, this smoker balances affordability with solid features. It’s perfect if you want a reliable, easy-to-use smoker that doesn’t break the bank.
The only downside is that it maxes out at 275°F, so if you prefer higher temps, you might feel limited. Still, for juicy, flavorful smoking at a great price, it’s a winner.
EAST OAK 30-inch Electric Smoker, Outdoor Smoker Convenient
- ✓ Easy to operate
- ✓ Large cooking space
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ No Wi-Fi connectivity
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Cooking Capacity | 725 sq inches (large cooking space with 4 removable chrome-plated racks) |
| Power | 800W heating element |
| Maximum Temperature | 275°F |
| Timer Setting | Up to 12 hours |
| Dimensions | 18.97 x 17.56 x 32.44 inches |
| Construction Material | Three-layer casing with aluminum plating along edges for durability |
Many people assume that affordable electric smokers cut corners on flavor or durability. But with the EAST OAK 30-inch Electric Smoker, I found that it actually delivers on both fronts—without breaking the bank.
The side wood chip loader is a game-changer, allowing me to add chips without opening the door, which kept the heat stable and the smoky flavor locked in.
The 800W heating element produces consistent smoke and heat, giving my meats that tender, juicy texture I crave. I was surprised at how evenly it cooked, thanks to the spacious 725 square inches of cooking area and four chrome-plated racks.
I could easily smoke a large brisket or several racks of ribs at once, with enough space to spare.
The digital control panel is user-friendly, letting me set the temperature up to 275°F and the timer for up to 12 hours. Monitoring progress was simple, and I appreciated how quickly it heated up.
The sturdy three-layer casing, combined with aluminum plating along the edges, made me confident it could withstand outdoor elements over time.
Overall, this smoker packs a lot of value. It’s straightforward to use, durable, and produces delicious smoke-infused dishes.
Perfect for weekend barbecues or slow-cooked dinners, it’s a reliable addition to any outdoor kitchen.
Cuisinart 30″ Electric Smoker, 3 Adjustable Racks, Large
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Easy cleanup design
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✕ Basic features
- ✕ No Wi-Fi connectivity
| Cooking Area | 548 square inches |
| Rack Configuration | 3 removable chrome-steel racks |
| Power Output | 1500 watts |
| Temperature Range | 100°F to 400°F |
| Built-in Thermometer | Yes, front-mounted |
| Additional Features | Includes wood chip and water trays |
Sliding the Cuisinart 30″ Electric Smoker out of its box, I immediately noticed how compact yet surprisingly spacious it felt. The vertical design makes it perfect for tight patios, and those three removable chrome-steel racks give you a lot of flexibility for different cuts of meat or veggies.
It’s easy to see how this could be a go-to for anyone who wants good smoky flavor without breaking the bank.
The 548 square inches of cooking space is impressive for a budget-friendly model. Filling it with pork shoulder or racks of ribs didn’t feel crowded at all.
The racks slide in and out smoothly, and being dishwasher-safe makes cleanup after a long smoke session way less of a chore.
Adjusting the heat is straightforward thanks to the 1500-watt burner, which offers a decent range from 100°F to 400°F. I appreciated the dial control—no complicated buttons here.
The built-in thermometer on the door is a handy touch, letting me keep an eye on the internal temp without opening the door and losing heat.
Setting up with the stainless steel trays for water and wood chips was simple. They sit securely and make adding wood chunks during a cook easy.
The 15,000 BTU output provides consistent heat, though you might want to monitor the temperature for longer smoking sessions.
Overall, this smoker hits a nice sweet spot: big enough for family-sized meals, simple to operate, and budget-friendly. It’s not packed with fancy features, but if you want reliable, flavorful smoking without spending hundreds, it’s a solid choice.
What Defines a Cheap Electric Smoker?
Temperature Control: Effective temperature control is essential for successful smoking. Some cheaper models might have basic dial controls, while better options may include digital displays that allow for precise adjustments, thus improving the smoking experience and ensuring that food is cooked properly.
Features: Extra features can enhance the functionality of an electric smoker. Look for models with conveniences such as side-loading wood chip trays for easy refilling, water pans for moisture retention, and digital interfaces that simplify operation.
Warranty: A warranty serves as a safety net for buyers and can indicate the manufacturer’s trust in their product. A better warranty often reflects higher quality and can help mitigate concerns about potential defects or wear over time.
What Key Features Should You Seek in a Budget Electric Smoker?
When searching for the best cheap electric smoker, there are several key features to consider that enhance usability and performance.
- Temperature Control: Look for a smoker with adjustable temperature settings to ensure precise cooking. Consistent temperature control allows for better smoke infusion and ensures your meat is cooked evenly.
- Cooking Space: Consider the cooking area offered by the smoker. A larger cooking space enables you to smoke multiple items at once, making it more efficient for gatherings or family meals.
- Build Quality: The materials used in construction can greatly affect durability. Smokers made from high-quality steel or with proper insulation will retain heat better and withstand outdoor conditions.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly features such as digital controls, clear displays, and easy-to-fill wood chip trays can enhance the smoking experience. Look for smokers that are easy to set up and operate, especially if you are a beginner.
- Portability: If you plan to move your smoker around, check for features like wheels or a lightweight design. A portable smoker can be easily transported to different locations, whether for tailgating, camping, or backyard gatherings.
- Price vs. Features: It’s essential to evaluate the features offered in relation to the price. A budget smoker should provide essential functionalities without compromising on quality, ensuring you get the best value for your money.
- Warranty and Customer Support: A good warranty and responsive customer service can be indicators of product quality. Opt for brands that stand behind their products, as this can provide peace of mind in case of defects or issues.
How Does Temperature Control Impact Your Smoking Experience?
Temperature control is crucial for achieving the desired flavor and tenderness when smoking food.
- Consistent Temperature: Maintaining a steady temperature throughout the smoking process ensures even cooking and prevents overcooking or undercooking.
- Flavor Development: Different meats and woods release flavors at specific temperatures, making precise control necessary for optimal taste.
- Smoke Production: The right temperature aids in producing the ideal amount of smoke, enhancing the smoky flavor without making the food bitter.
- Cooking Time Management: Accurate temperature control helps in predicting cooking times, allowing for better meal planning and coordination.
- Moisture Retention: Proper temperature settings can help in keeping the meat moist, as high temperatures can cause it to dry out quickly.
Consistent Temperature: Maintaining a steady temperature throughout the smoking process ensures even cooking and prevents overcooking or undercooking. Electric smokers often have built-in temperature controls that allow users to set their desired levels, which is essential for achieving consistent results every time.
Flavor Development: Different meats and woods release flavors at specific temperatures, making precise control necessary for optimal taste. For instance, smoking brisket at a lower temperature allows for better fat rendering, resulting in a rich and flavorful outcome.
Smoke Production: The right temperature aids in producing the ideal amount of smoke, enhancing the smoky flavor without making the food bitter. If the temperature is too high, it can lead to incomplete combustion of the wood, resulting in a harsh or acrid taste.
Cooking Time Management: Accurate temperature control helps in predicting cooking times, allowing for better meal planning and coordination. When you know the temperature is stable, you can estimate when your food will be ready, making it easier to serve alongside other dishes.
Moisture Retention: Proper temperature settings can help in keeping the meat moist, as high temperatures can cause it to dry out quickly. Electric smokers typically provide the ability to maintain lower temperatures for longer periods, which is beneficial for achieving juicy and tender results.
What Cooking Area Size is Ideal for Your Needs?
The ideal cooking area size for your needs can vary based on several factors, including the number of people you typically cook for and the types of foods you plan to smoke.
- Small Cooking Area (Under 300 Square Inches): This size is suitable for individuals or small families who occasionally smoke food. It can accommodate a couple of racks of ribs or a small brisket, making it perfect for personal use or small gatherings.
- Medium Cooking Area (300-600 Square Inches): A medium-sized cooking area is ideal for families or small parties, allowing you to smoke multiple items at once. You can fit several racks of ribs, chicken, or a larger cut of meat, providing flexibility for various cooking needs.
- Large Cooking Area (Over 600 Square Inches): Large cooking areas are designed for enthusiasts who often host large gatherings or competitions. They provide ample space to smoke multiple cuts of meat simultaneously, as well as accommodate larger items like whole turkeys or multiple briskets.
- Expandable Cooking Area: Some electric smokers come with expandable or adjustable racks that allow for increased cooking space. This feature is beneficial for those who may not need a large cooking area regularly but want the option to accommodate larger meals when necessary.
What Are the Best Affordable Electric Smokers Available?
Some of the best affordable electric smokers available include:
- Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker: This model is known for its user-friendly digital control panel and a spacious cooking area of 711 square inches.
- Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker: Featuring a large capacity and a built-in meat thermometer, this smoker ensures precise cooking and convenience.
- Camp Chef Smoker 24: With its versatile design, this smoker doubles as a grill and features a sturdy construction that makes it perfect for outdoor cooking.
- Bradley Digital 4-Rack Smoker: This smoker is praised for its unique bisquette system that provides consistent smoke and flavor, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
- Smoke Hollow 26142E Electric Smoker: With a compact design and easy-to-use controls, this model is ideal for beginners looking to try their hand at smoking.
Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker: This smoker stands out for its digital control panel, allowing users to set the temperature and time with precision. It offers 711 square inches of cooking space, making it suitable for smoking large cuts of meat or multiple dishes at once. Its insulated body ensures consistent temperatures, which enhances the smoking process.
Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker: This model combines a generous cooking capacity with user-friendly features such as a built-in meat thermometer and remote control. The digital interface allows for easy adjustments, while the double-wall construction helps maintain temperature stability. Additionally, its wood chip tray can be accessed without opening the smoker, making it more efficient during cooking.
Camp Chef Smoker 24: This versatile unit not only functions as an electric smoker but can also be used as a grill. Its sturdy build and ample cooking space make it suitable for various outdoor cooking tasks. The adjustable smoke settings allow users to customize their smoking experience, ensuring flavorful results every time.
Bradley Digital 4-Rack Smoker: A favorite among BBQ enthusiasts, this smoker utilizes a unique bisquette system that produces consistent smoke for up to 8 hours. With digital controls that simplify the smoking process, it is ideal for both beginners and experienced users. Its four racks provide ample space for smoking different types of food simultaneously.
Smoke Hollow 26142E Electric Smoker: This compact electric smoker is particularly suitable for those new to smoking, thanks to its straightforward controls and lightweight design. It features a wood chip tray that can easily be refilled during cooking, and a water pan that helps maintain moisture within the smoker. Its affordability makes it an excellent entry point for aspiring pitmasters.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Budget Electric Smokers?
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Cost-effective – Generally more affordable than traditional smokers. | Limited flavor – May not provide the same depth of flavor as wood-fired smokers. |
| Ease of use – Simple controls and minimal setup required. | Temperature control – May have less precise temperature management. |
| Consistent results – Good for beginners with uniform cooking. | Durability – Often made with less robust materials, leading to shorter lifespan. |
| Portability – Often lighter and easier to transport than traditional smokers. | Power dependence – Requires an electrical outlet, limiting outdoor use in some locations. |
| Variety of options – Available in various sizes and features to suit different needs. | Limited cooking capacity – Some models may not accommodate larger cuts of meat. |
How Can You Optimize the Performance of a Cheap Electric Smoker?
To optimize the performance of a cheap electric smoker, consider the following strategies:
- Temperature Control: Maintaining a consistent temperature is crucial for effective smoking. Use a reliable thermometer to monitor the internal temperature, as many inexpensive models may not have accurate built-in gauges.
- Wood Chips Management: Utilizing wood chips enhances flavor, but proper management is required. Soak the chips in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prolong smoke time and prevent them from igniting too quickly.
- Preheating the Smoker: Preheating your electric smoker before adding food ensures that the cooking process starts at the right temperature. This can help lock in flavors and moisture from the beginning.
- Ventilation Adjustment: Adjusting the air vents can significantly influence smoke and heat circulation. Experiment with the vents to find the optimal setting for your specific model to achieve the best smoke flavor and cooking efficiency.
- Use of a Water Pan: Incorporating a water pan can help regulate temperature and maintain moisture in the cooking chamber. This is particularly important for lean meats, preventing them from drying out during the smoking process.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your smoker clean will improve its performance and longevity. Regularly remove ash and grease build-up, which can impede airflow and affect the overall cooking temperature.
- Experimenting with Different Cuts of Meat: Understanding which meats work best in your smoker can lead to better results. Some cuts, such as brisket or pork shoulder, benefit from low and slow cooking, while others might require adjustments in time and temperature.
- Monitoring Cooking Time: Different foods require different cooking times, and using a timer can help ensure that your meat is cooked perfectly. Overcooking can dry out your food, while undercooking can lead to food safety issues.
What Insights Do Customer Reviews Provide on Budget Electric Smokers?
- Performance Reliability: Customers often comment on how well the smoker maintains temperature and produces smoke. Many reviews highlight the importance of consistent heating, which directly affects the quality of the food being smoked.
- Ease of Use: Users frequently discuss the user-friendliness of budget electric smokers, including setup, operation, and cleaning. Reviews may emphasize features like digital controls or simplicity in loading wood chips, making these smokers accessible for beginners.
- Durability and Build Quality: Reviews tend to reveal insights on the materials used in construction and their longevity. Customers may note if the smoker is made of sturdy materials or if it shows wear and tear after a few uses, which is crucial for those looking for value in budget options.
- Flavor and Smoke Quality: Many customers share their experiences regarding the flavor of the food produced by budget electric smokers. Insights often focus on how well the smoker infuses smoke and if it meets expectations compared to more expensive models.
- Value for Money: Reviews typically assess whether the features and performance justify the price point of the smoker. Users often weigh their satisfaction against the cost, providing potential buyers with a clear picture of what to expect for their investment.
- Customer Support and Warranty: Feedback on customer service experiences and warranty offerings also appears in reviews. Positive or negative interactions with manufacturers can significantly influence a buyer’s decision, particularly in the budget category where support may be a concern.