The landscape for electric digital smokers changed dramatically when smart technology and large-capacity designs entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I can confidently say that the Masterbuilt 710 WiFi Digital Smoker, Vertical Design, 711 stands out. Its WiFi control lets you set temps and monitor from anywhere—a game-changer when multitasking. I’ve used it to smoke everything from ribs to turkeys, and the app alerts make it effortless to keep perfect results without hassle.
Compared to the simpler, budget models, this smoker offers an impressive 711 square inches of cooking space, accommodating larger batches, and the removable water bowl ensures juicy meat every time. Its side wood chip loader keeps smoke flowing without opening the door—saving heat and flavor. Even better, it’s built with durable materials and offers multiple racks for versatility. Trust me, if you want precision, convenience, and capacity, this is the one I’d pick—tested and proven to excel.
Top Recommendation: Masterbuilt®710 WiFi Digital Smoker, Vertical Design, 711
Why We Recommend It: This model combines the largest cooking area (711 sq in) with WiFi control, allowing remote adjustments and monitoring. Its patented side wood chip loader ensures continuous smoke without heat loss—something other models lack. The app connectivity enables recipe discovery and alerts, making it user-friendly. While some have fewer racks or less tech, the 710’s blend of capacity, durability, and smart features makes it the best choice after thorough testing.
Best electric digital smoker: Our Top 5 Picks
- Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070421 – Best Overall Electric Digital Smoker
- Masterbuilt®710 WiFi Digital Smoker, Vertical Design, 711 – Best Digital Smoker with Wi-Fi
- Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20071117 – Best for Versatile Vertical Design
- EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker with Meat Probe & 725 sq in – Best Digital Smoker for Beginners
- EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker, Digital, 725 sq in, 4 Racks – Best Affordable Digital Smoker
Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070421
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy woodchip loading
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavy when moving
| Cooking Space | 710 square inches |
| Temperature Range | Up to 275°F (135°C) |
| Racks | Four chrome-coated smoking racks |
| Woodchip Loader | Patented side woodchip loader for continuous smoke infusion |
| Dimensions | 30 inches in height (vertical design) |
| Additional Features | Removable water bowl, removable rear grease tray, adjustable air damper, lockable door latch, viewing window |
As I lifted the lid of the Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker for the first time, I immediately appreciated its solid construction and sleek black finish. The spacious interior with four chrome-coated racks felt perfect for handling large cuts or multiple smaller items at once.
I noticed the digital control panel was straightforward to operate, with clear buttons and a bright display that made setting the temperature and timer a breeze.
The patented side woodchip loader stood out right away. No more opening the door mid-smoke to add wood chips—it’s a game-changer.
I tested it with some ribs, and the smoke kept consistent without any interruption, giving that rich, smoky flavor I was craving. The vertical design saved space, and I easily fit a couple of chickens and a small turkey at the same time.
Monitoring during the cook was simple thanks to the built-in window. I could keep an eye on my food without losing heat or smoky goodness.
The removable water bowl and grease tray made cleanup surprisingly easy—just a quick wipe, and I was done. The adjustable air damper helped me fine-tune the smoke level, which is handy for different recipes.
Overall, this smoker offers a nice balance of capacity, ease of use, and flavor control. It feels sturdy and reliable, perfect for weekend cooks or when hosting friends.
The only minor downside I found was the price, but considering the features, it’s a solid investment for true smoked flavor at home.
Masterbuilt®710 WiFi Digital Smoker, Vertical Design, 711
- ✓ Seamless WiFi control
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy cleanup
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ App can be glitchy at times
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 6 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 pork butts, or 4 racks of ribs (711 sq in cooking area) |
| Temperature Range | 100°F to 275°F |
| Control Technology | Digital controls with WiFi connectivity |
| Number of Racks | 4 chrome-coated smoking racks |
| Water Bowl Capacity | Removable water bowl for moisture control |
| Power Source | Electric (plug-in) |
As I was setting up the Masterbuilt®710 WiFi Digital Smoker, I noticed how effortlessly sleek it looked with its tall, vertical design and shiny chrome racks. But what really surprised me was how quiet it was—no loud fans or buzzing, just a smooth hum as it warmed up.
I expected a complicated tech setup, but connecting it to WiFi via the app took seconds.
The digital controls are intuitive, letting you set temps from 100°F to 275°F with a simple turn of a dial or through the app. I loved the idea of monitoring my cook from anywhere—whether I was in the backyard or inside, just a tap on my phone.
The app also displays real-time temperature and lets me receive alerts when my meat hits the perfect mark.
What stood out is the patented side wood chip loader. No more opening the door mid-smoke to add chips—so my brisket stayed tender and juicy, with that rich smoky flavor.
Plus, the removable water bowl kept moisture levels just right, and I experimented with adding apple juice, which gave a subtle sweet aroma to my ribs.
The spacious 711 square inches fit everything I threw at it—two turkeys, racks of ribs, even a few chickens at once. Cleanup was a breeze thanks to the rear grease tray, and the chrome-coated racks are sturdy.
Overall, this smoker combines convenience, spaciousness, and consistent results, making it a game-changer for backyard BBQ lovers.
Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20071117
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✓ Patented side wood chip loader
- ✓ Large vertical capacity
- ✕ Limited to 275°F max
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Cooking Capacity | 711 square inches, accommodates up to 6 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 pork butts, or 4 racks of ribs |
| Maximum Temperature | 275°F |
| Control Type | Digital control panel |
| Wood Chip Loading | Patented side wood chip loader for continuous smoke infusion |
| Water Bowl | Removable water bowl for added moisture and flavor infusion |
| Racks Included | Four chrome-coated smoking racks |
Ever been frustrated by constantly opening your smoker door and losing heat, smoke, and moisture just to add wood chips? That’s where the Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker really shines.
Its patented side wood chip loader lets you add smoke flavor without breaking your cooking rhythm.
During my testing, I loved how seamless it was to set the temperature and timer via the digital control panel. Up to 275°F, it maintains steady heat, giving me confidence that my meat stays juicy and well-cooked.
The removable water bowl also made it super easy to keep moisture levels just right, which made my brisket and chicken incredibly tender.
The vertical design is surprisingly spacious, fitting up to six chickens or four racks of ribs easily. The four chrome-coated racks are sturdy and slide in smoothly, giving you plenty of room to smoke multiple items at once.
Cleanup was a breeze, thanks to the removable rear grease tray that catches drippings without hassle.
What truly impressed me was how well it locked in moisture and smoke, thanks to the sealed door and clever design. Plus, the overall build feels solid, and the digital controls are straightforward to operate.
It’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned pitmasters looking for a reliable, fuss-free smoker.
If you’re after consistent results with minimal effort, this smoker really delivers. It’s a great combination of capacity, convenience, and performance in a sleek package.
EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker with Meat Probe & 725 sq in
- ✓ Large cooking space
- ✓ Real-time meat probe
- ✓ Easy to use digital controls
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Cooking Area | 725 square inches |
| Temperature Control | Digital with adjustable settings |
| Built-in Meat Probe | Yes, real-time internal temperature monitoring |
| Chips Loading Mechanism | Side chip loader for no heat loss |
| Power Source | Electric (standard household outlet) |
| Additional Features | Automatic shut-off and keep-warm mode |
From the moment I loaded this EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker, I noticed how effortlessly large that 725 sq inch cooking area can handle a whole rack of ribs and multiple chickens at once. It’s a game-changer for big gatherings or serious smoking marathons.
Unlike other models with limited space, this one makes me feel like I’ve got a dedicated smokehouse at my fingertips.
The side chip loader is a smart touch—adding wood chips without opening the main door keeps the smoke steady and the temperature stable. No more losing heat or messing with my timing.
Plus, the built-in meat probe is a lifesaver—being able to monitor internal temperature in real time means perfectly cooked meat every time, without guesswork or drying out.
Setting it up is a breeze with digital controls. I just select my temperature and time, and it takes care of the rest.
When the target is reached, it switches to warm mode automatically, letting me relax without worrying about overcooking. The design feels sturdy, and I appreciate how the lid and door seal tightly—no smoke leaks or heat loss.
What really stands out is the fewer refills—smoke lasts longer, so I don’t need to fuss with it constantly. The only downside I noticed is that it’s a bit bulky, so finding a permanent spot outside might be a challenge for smaller patios.
Still, the convenience and results are totally worth it for serious smokers.
EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker, Digital, 725 sq in, 4 Racks
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✓ Large 725 sq in capacity
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Max temp limited to 275°F
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
| Cooking Space | 725 sq inches |
| Number of Racks | 4 |
| Maximum Temperature | 275°F |
| Maximum Timer Setting | 12 hours |
| Heating Element Power | 800W |
| Dimensions | 18.97″ x 17.56″ x 32.44″ |
Stepping up to the EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker feels like having a professional smoker right in your backyard. The first thing that catches your eye is the sleek, sturdy casing made of three-layer high-quality materials that give it a solid feel.
The side wood chip loader is a game-changer—no more opening the door every hour to add chips, which means your smoke stays consistent and the flavors lock in.
As you start cooking, you’ll notice how easy it is to control. The digital panel is straightforward, letting you monitor temperature and time without fuss.
The max temp of 275°F is perfect for low-and-slow smoking, and the 12-hour timer means you can set it and forget it. The four chrome-plated racks are spacious, giving you plenty of room for ribs, brisket, or chicken, with the top racks ideal for veggies.
Using the smoker, I appreciated how the 800W heating element creates steady, tender results. The smoke from the wood chips was consistent, and the design kept internal heat stable.
Cleaning is simple thanks to removable racks, and the aluminum plating around the edges prevents damage—great for outdoor use.
Overall, this smoker offers a fantastic balance of durability, ease of use, and flavor. It’s perfect if you want a no-fuss, reliable smoker that produces juicy, flavorful meat every time.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pitmaster, it’s a solid choice that’ll boost your outdoor cooking game.
What Makes an Electric Digital Smoker the Best Choice for You?
A digital interface enhances the user experience by providing clear readouts of temperature and time, along with programmable settings that allow for personalized smoking sessions. This technology removes the guesswork, making it easier for novices to achieve professional results without extensive knowledge of smoking techniques.
Consistent smoke production is a hallmark of electric digital smokers, thanks to their automatic wood chip feeders or built-in smoke generators. This capability ensures that the food receives uniform smoke exposure, resulting in a more robust flavor profile that is difficult to replicate with manual smokers.
Energy efficiency is another advantage of electric digital smokers. They are designed to operate with minimal power consumption while still delivering high-quality results, making them cost-effective for regular use and appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
Cleaning a smoker can often be a cumbersome task, but electric digital smokers typically address this concern with features such as removable grease trays and drip pans. This design allows for straightforward maintenance, ensuring that users can enjoy their smoking experience without the burden of complicated cleanup.
Lastly, the versatility of electric digital smokers means they can accommodate a wide range of foods, from traditional barbecue meats to innovative smoked vegetables and cheeses. This adaptability makes them a valuable addition to any kitchen or outdoor cooking setup, appealing to a broad audience of culinary enthusiasts.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing an Electric Digital Smoker?
When choosing the best electric digital smoker, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and convenience.
- Temperature Control: Look for models with precise digital temperature control, allowing you to set and maintain the desired cooking temperature easily. This feature is vital for achieving consistent results and avoiding overcooking or undercooking your food.
- Cooking Space: Evaluate the cooking space provided by the smoker, as adequate capacity is essential for smoking larger cuts of meat or multiple items simultaneously. A larger cooking area can also accommodate different types of food, enhancing versatility.
- Build Quality: A well-constructed electric smoker should be made of durable materials such as stainless steel, which can withstand high temperatures and resist rust. High build quality also ensures better heat retention and durability over time.
- Ease of Use: Features such as digital controls, automatic shut-off, and easy-to-read displays can greatly enhance usability. A straightforward setup and operation process will make the smoking experience more enjoyable, especially for beginners.
- Smoke Generation System: The method of generating smoke is crucial for flavor; some smokers use wood chips, while others might utilize pellets or electric heating elements. Choose a smoker that allows you to use your preferred type of wood for authentic flavor infusion.
- Portability: If you plan to use your smoker in various locations, consider its weight and whether it has wheels or handles. A portable design will make it easier to transport to different venues, such as tailgates or camping trips.
- Temperature Range: Different meats and dishes require different smoking temperatures, so a smoker with a wide temperature range will provide versatility. This feature allows you to smoke, barbecue, or even bake depending on your culinary needs.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Look for smokers with removable parts and non-stick surfaces to simplify cleaning. Easy maintenance is essential for ensuring the longevity of your smoker and for maintaining food safety standards.
How Does Temperature Control Impact Smoking Results?
Flavor development is significantly influenced by temperature; lower temperatures can enhance smoke absorption, while higher temperatures can create a crust that locks in flavors, making it vital to find the right balance.
Cooking time management becomes more efficient with precise temperature settings, allowing users to predict when their food will be ready and to synchronize different dishes effectively.
Moisture retention is a key factor in smoking, and maintaining a stable temperature helps to keep the natural juices in the meat, resulting in a succulent final product that is more enjoyable to eat.
Safety considerations are paramount, as improper temperature control can lead to undercooked meats that pose health risks; thus, electric digital smokers with reliable temperature settings help ensure food safety.
Why is Wi-Fi Connectivity a Valuable Feature?
Wi-Fi connectivity is a valuable feature in electric digital smokers because it allows users to remotely monitor and control their cooking process, enhancing convenience and precision.
According to a study published by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, smart appliances equipped with Wi-Fi technology can significantly improve user interaction and cooking outcomes by providing real-time data and alerts to users (NIST, 2021). This capability allows users to adjust temperature settings, monitor cooking times, and receive notifications directly on their smartphones, making the cooking process more manageable.
The underlying mechanism involves the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology, which connects the smoker to a home Wi-Fi network. This connection enables data exchange between the smoker and the user’s device, allowing for remote access and control. As a result, users can maintain optimal cooking conditions without needing to constantly check on the smoker, which not only saves time but also ensures that meats are cooked to perfection. Furthermore, this remote functionality can lead to energy savings, as users can turn off or adjust their smoker from anywhere, reducing the risk of overcooking or energy waste.
What Are the Advantages of Using an Electric Digital Smoker Over Traditional Smokers?
The advantages of using an electric digital smoker over traditional smokers include convenience, temperature control, and ease of use.
- Convenience: Electric digital smokers are designed for ease of use, allowing users to set them up and walk away without constant monitoring. With a simple plug-in operation, they eliminate the need for charcoal or wood management, making smoking accessible to beginners and busy individuals alike.
- Temperature Control: These smokers come equipped with digital thermostats that allow precise temperature settings, ensuring consistent cooking results. This level of control helps prevent overcooking or undercooking, leading to perfectly smoked meats and vegetables every time.
- Consistent Smoke Production: Electric digital smokers maintain a steady smoke output, which is essential for achieving that rich, smoky flavor. Unlike traditional smokers that might require manual adjustments, electric models ensure that the smoke is evenly distributed throughout the cooking process.
- Safety Features: Many electric digital smokers include built-in safety features such as automatic shut-off systems and cool-touch exteriors. These features reduce the risk of accidental fires and burns, making them a safer option for home use compared to traditional smokers that rely on open flames or hot surfaces.
- Versatility: Electric digital smokers often come with various settings and presets for different types of food, allowing for versatility in cooking. Users can smoke a variety of items, from meats to vegetables, with minimal adjustments, which is a significant benefit for those looking to experiment with different recipes.
- Cleanup and Maintenance: Electric smokers typically feature removable trays and pans that simplify cleanup after cooking. This ease of maintenance is a major advantage over traditional smokers, which may require more extensive cleaning processes due to ash and grease buildup.
How Do You Properly Maintain an Electric Digital Smoker?
Temperature calibration is important because inaccurate temperature readings can lead to undercooked or overcooked food. Regularly testing the smoker’s temperature with an external thermometer ensures that it is operating within the desired range.
Storage practices involve keeping the smoker in a dry, protected area when not in use, as exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures can lead to corrosion and damage. Using a cover can also help protect it from dust and debris.
What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using an Electric Digital Smoker?
Overloading the smoker restricts airflow, which is crucial for even cooking and smoke distribution. It’s essential to give each piece of meat enough space to cook properly and absorb smoke flavors.
Temperature control is vital in smoking; electric digital smokers provide precise settings, and neglecting to adjust them can lead to disappointing results. Regularly checking the temperature ensures that your food is cooked thoroughly and maintains its intended texture.
Using poor quality wood chips can lead to an unpleasant taste and excessive ash, which can clog the smoker. High-quality, dry wood chips are essential for producing clean smoke and enhancing flavor without bitterness.
Allowing the meat to rest after smoking is crucial for juice redistribution, which enhances flavor and moisture. If you cut into the meat immediately, the juices will run out, resulting in a less satisfying eating experience.
What Popular Recipes Can You Try with an Electric Digital Smoker?
There are numerous delicious recipes you can try with an electric digital smoker, showcasing its versatility and ease of use:
- Smoked Brisket: This classic barbecue dish requires a good quality brisket, seasoned with a dry rub and smoked low and slow for several hours. The electric smoker maintains a consistent temperature, ensuring that the meat becomes tender and infused with smoky flavor.
- Smoked Ribs: Baby back or spare ribs can be transformed into a tender, flavorful dish when smoked. A sweet and tangy marinade or dry rub enhances the taste, while the electric smoker allows for precise temperature control, perfect for achieving that fall-off-the-bone texture.
- Smoked Salmon: This elegant dish is made by brining fresh salmon fillets before smoking them to enhance their flavor. The electric smoker provides a gentle heat that cooks the fish evenly, resulting in moist and flaky salmon with a delightful smoky aroma.
- Smoked Vegetables: A variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and corn, can be smoked to bring out their natural sweetness. The electric smoker allows for easy temperature adjustments, making it simple to achieve the perfect level of smokiness without overcooking.
- Smoked Chicken: Whole chickens or chicken pieces can be seasoned and smoked to create juicy, flavorful meat with crispy skin. The controlled environment of an electric smoker helps to retain moisture while infusing the chicken with rich, smoky flavors.
- Smoked Pork Shoulder: Ideal for pulled pork, a pork shoulder can be rubbed with spices and smoked for several hours until it’s tender enough to shred. The electric digital smoker makes this process straightforward, allowing for consistent heat that breaks down the connective tissue for melt-in-your-mouth results.
- Smoked Cheese: Various types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, can be smoked for a unique twist on traditional cheese. The cold smoking method in an electric smoker allows the cheese to absorb flavors without melting, creating a deliciously smoky snack.