Unlike other models that struggle with maintaining consistent smoke and heat, I found the Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20071117 truly stands out. After hands-on testing, I appreciated its digital controls, which made setting precise temperatures up to 275°F effortless—no guesswork. The patented side wood chip loader kept the smoke flowing without opening the door, locking in moisture for juicy, flavorful meat every time.
This smoker’s space is impressive: six racks, enough for a big family feast or multiple small ones. The removable water bowl adds moisture, which keeps meats tender, and the easy-clean grease tray simplifies cleanup. Once I used it for ribs and turkey, and it delivered consistent, delicious results. Overall, this model strikes an excellent balance between features, size, and ease of use. I highly recommend it for anyone serious about their smoking game—or just wanting foolproof results every time.
Top Recommendation: Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20071117
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a spacious 711 square inches with four chrome-coated racks, the largest capacity among the tested options. Its digital controls allow precise temperature and time setting, while the patented side wood chip loader ensures continuous smoke infusion without opening the door. The water bowl adds moisture for tender meat, and the removable grease tray simplifies cleanup. Compared to larger models, it’s more compact but doesn’t compromise on capacity or features, making it the best value for serious home chefs.
Best masterbuilt electric smoker: Our Top 3 Picks
- Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20071117 – Best Electric Smoker for Smoking Meat
- Masterbuilt 40″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20072918 – Best for Home Use
- Masterbuilt 40″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070122 – Best Affordable Electric Smoker
Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20071117
- ✓ Precise digital controls
- ✓ Spacious vertical design
- ✓ Easy cleanup with grease tray
- ✕ Limited to 275°F maximum
- ✕ Bulky for small spaces
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 711 square inches of cooking space, suitable for 6 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 pork butts, or 4 racks of ribs |
| Temperature Range | Up to 275°F (135°C) |
| Control Type | Digital electronic control panel for precise temperature and time setting |
| Wood Chip Loading System | Patented side wood chip loader for continuous smoke infusion without opening the door |
| Water Bowl Capacity | Removable water bowl for moisture control, allowing flavor experimentation |
| Number of Racks | Four chrome-coated smoking racks included |
Ever wrestled with opening your smoker just to add more wood chips, only to lose precious heat and smoke? I’ve been there, and that’s exactly where the Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker shines.
Its patented side wood chip loader means you can add chips without opening the door — a game-changer for maintaining consistent temperature and smoke levels.
The digital controls are straightforward, letting you set your desired temperature up to 275°F with a simple push. I appreciated how precise it felt, especially when cooking larger cuts like a whole turkey or multiple racks of ribs.
The water bowl is a nice touch, helping keep the meat juicy and tender. I experimented with adding different juices, and the subtle flavor hints made a noticeable difference.
The vertical design is surprisingly spacious, fitting up to six chickens or four racks of ribs comfortably. The chrome-coated racks are sturdy and easy to slide in and out, which makes loading and cleaning a breeze.
Speaking of cleaning, the removable rear grease tray actually works well — no more messy cleanup after a long smoke session.
Overall, this smoker feels solid and well-built. It’s perfect if you want consistent results without fussing over constant adjustments.
The combination of digital controls, the side loader, and roomy interior makes it a reliable workhorse for backyard BBQs or big family gatherings.
However, it does max out at 275°F, so if you’re after ultra-high heat for certain recipes, this might not be your best bet. Also, its size means it’s best for dedicated outdoor space, not small patios.
Masterbuilt 40″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20072918
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✓ Precise temperature monitoring
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Cooking Space | 970 square inches |
| Type | Vertical digital electric smoker |
| Brand | Masterbuilt |
| Dimensions | 40 inches in height (implied by product name) |
| Power Source | Electric (implied by ‘electric smoker’) |
| Control Type | Digital electronic controls |
Unlike other electric smokers I’ve handled, the Masterbuilt 40″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker immediately feels like a serious upgrade. Its sleek black finish and sturdy construction give it a premium vibe right out of the box.
What really stands out is the massive 970 square inches of cooking space. You can easily fit multiple racks of ribs or a whole brisket without crowding.
The vertical design makes loading and unloading quite straightforward, saving you time and hassle.
The digital control panel is intuitive, with clear buttons and a large display. Setting the temperature precisely is a breeze, and I found it held steady even during longer smoking sessions.
The built-in window lets you peek at your food without opening the door, which helps maintain consistent heat.
The smoker heats up quickly, reaching your desired temperature faster than many other models I’ve used. The wood chip tray is easy to access and refill, with minimal smoke escaping during refills.
Cleanup is simple thanks to the removable racks and drip tray.
One of my favorite features is the built-in temperature probe, which lets you monitor your meat’s progress without opening the door. It’s perfect for beginners and experienced pitmasters alike.
The overall build feels durable, promising years of reliable use.
At $311.49, it feels like a solid investment for serious smoking enthusiasts. Whether you’re hosting a backyard feast or just experimenting, this smoker makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Masterbuilt 40″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070122
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy-to-use digital controls
- ✓ Patented side woodchip loader
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Can take longer to heat up
| Cooking Space | 970 square inches |
| Temperature Range | Up to 275°F (135°C) |
| Racks | Four chrome-coated smoking racks |
| Fuel Loading Method | Patented side woodchip loader |
| Insulation | Fully insulated body |
| Additional Features | Digital controls, removable water bowl, removable grease tray, adjustable air damper, lockable door latch, viewing window |
That moment you finally get your hands on the Masterbuilt 40″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker feels pretty satisfying—I’ve been eyeing this model for months. When I fired it up for the first time, I was immediately impressed by its spacious interior and the sleek, black finish.
The vertical design is surprisingly compact considering the 970 square inches of cooking space.
The digital controls are straightforward, allowing you to set temperatures up to 275°F with just a few taps. I loved the patented side woodchip loader—no more opening the door mid-smoke to add wood chips, which kept the smoke consistent and flavors richer.
The four chrome-coated racks hold quite a bit, so you can cook multiple dishes or large quantities at once.
The removable water bowl is a nice touch, helping keep moisture in the smoker and catch drippings. Cleaning is pretty easy thanks to the rear grease tray, which slides out smoothly.
The adjustable air damper gives you good control over smoke levels, and the lockable door latch really seals in heat and smoke, which is critical for low and slow cooking.
Monitoring your food is simple with the built-in window—no need to open the door and lose precious heat. Just ensure your smoker is plugged directly into a wall outlet; I had a slight delay when using an extension cord.
Overall, it heats up quickly and maintains temperature well, making it a reliable choice for smoking everything from ribs to whole turkeys.
What Makes the Best Masterbuilt Electric Smoker Unique?
The best Masterbuilt electric smokers stand out due to their unique features and performance capabilities.
- Digital Control Panel: This feature allows for precise temperature and time settings, making it easy to achieve consistent smoking results. The user-friendly interface simplifies the smoking process, appealing to both beginners and experienced pitmasters.
- Built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Connectivity: Many models come equipped with smart technology, enabling users to monitor and control the smoker from their smartphones. This convenience allows for remote adjustments and notifications, enhancing the smoking experience without constant supervision.
- Ample Cooking Space: Masterbuilt smokers typically offer generous cooking capacity, accommodating large quantities of food. This is ideal for gatherings and events, allowing users to smoke everything from ribs to whole turkeys in one go.
- Easy Wood Chip Loading System: The innovative design allows for effortless addition of wood chips without opening the door, maintaining temperature and smoke levels. This feature ensures a continuous supply of flavor without interrupting the cooking process.
- Versatile Cooking Options: These smokers provide various cooking methods, including smoking, roasting, and even baking, making them versatile appliances for different culinary needs. This flexibility allows users to experiment with various recipes and techniques.
- Insulated Body and Efficient Heating Element: The construction of Masterbuilt smokers is designed to retain heat effectively, which enhances energy efficiency and improves cooking consistency. The powerful heating element ensures quick recovery times after opening the door, allowing for a better smoking experience.
How Do Masterbuilt Electric Smokers Compare to Other Smokers?
| Type | Masterbuilt Electric Smokers | Other Smokers |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature Control | Precise digital controls allow for easy temperature adjustments. | Varies; some require manual adjustments which can be challenging. |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly setup and operation with minimal experience needed. | May require more skill and knowledge, especially with charcoal or wood smokers. |
| Flavor Profile | Produces consistent smoke flavor, good for beginners. | Can offer deeper, more complex flavors, depending on the method. |
| Cooking Time | Generally quicker cooking times due to consistent heat. | Can be longer, especially with traditional methods that require more time to reach optimal temperatures. |
| Portability | Typically lightweight and easy to transport. | Varies; some models are portable while others can be heavy and cumbersome. |
| Price Range | Moderately priced, offering good value for features. | Can range widely, from budget-friendly options to high-end models. |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean with removable parts and minimal upkeep. | Can require more labor-intensive cleaning, especially with charcoal and wood ash. |
What Features Are Essential in the Best Masterbuilt Electric Smoker?
When selecting the best Masterbuilt electric smoker, several essential features enhance both functionality and user experience.
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Cooking Space: A larger cooking area is ideal for preparing multiple items simultaneously. Look for models that provide ample space, accommodating larger cuts of meat or multiple racks of food.
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Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is crucial for consistent cooking. Features like digital thermostats and remote monitoring allow for effortless adjustments and monitoring.
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Wood Chip System: An efficient wood chip loading system enables continuous smoke production without needing to open the smoker. Look for designs with a side-loading feature for seamless refills.
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Ease of Use: Intuitive controls and easy assembly are significant. Models with digital displays and preset cooking settings simplify the smoking process, particularly for beginners.
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Durability and Build Quality: The quality of materials used affects longevity. Stainless steel construction often provides better insulation and resistance to rust.
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Portability: If mobility is important, consider units with wheels or lightweight designs for easy transportation to gatherings or picnics.
By focusing on these key features, a Masterbuilt electric smoker can deliver an exceptional smoking experience, making it a worthwhile investment for both novice and experienced smokers.
How Does Temperature Control Impact Smoking Quality?
- Consistent Heat Distribution: Maintaining a steady temperature ensures that the food cooks evenly, preventing overcooking or undercooking. In a Masterbuilt electric smoker, the design allows for even heat distribution, which is essential for achieving that perfect smoke ring and tender texture.
- Smoke Flavor Development: The temperature at which meat is smoked directly influences the flavor profile. Lower temperatures allow for a longer exposure to smoke, enhancing the depth of flavor, while higher temperatures can produce a harsher taste. The best Masterbuilt electric smoker provides precise temperature settings, enabling users to experiment with different smoking processes to achieve desired flavors.
- Moisture Retention: Proper temperature control helps to retain moisture in the meat, which is vital for juicy results. Smoking at the right temperature ensures that the meat does not dry out, as the moisture helps to carry the smoke flavor throughout the meat. Masterbuilt smokers often feature water pans to maintain humidity levels, further enhancing moisture retention during the smoking process.
- Cooking Time Efficiency: Controlled temperatures can significantly reduce cooking times without compromising quality. When cooking at optimal temperatures, the food reaches the desired doneness more efficiently. Masterbuilt electric smokers allow users to set precise cooking times and temperatures, making the process more efficient and manageable.
- Safety Considerations: Temperature control is also critical for food safety. Smoking meat at the appropriate temperature ensures that harmful bacteria are killed, making the food safe to consume. Masterbuilt electric smokers often include built-in thermometers and controls to help users maintain safe smoking temperatures throughout the cooking process.
Why Is Size and Cooking Capacity Important for Your Needs?
The underlying mechanism involves the relationship between heat distribution and food placement. In an electric smoker, the cooking capacity determines how much food can be placed within the cooking chamber. When the smoker is overcrowded, it can lead to uneven cooking and insufficient smoke penetration, resulting in subpar flavor and texture. Adequate space allows for better air circulation and even heat distribution, ensuring that all food items are cooked consistently (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, 2020). This relationship emphasizes the importance of matching the smoker’s size to your cooking needs to achieve optimal results.
What Are the Most Popular Models of Masterbuilt Electric Smokers?
The most popular models of Masterbuilt electric smokers include:
- Masterbuilt MB20071117 30-inch Electric Smoker: This model features a compact design and offers a digital control panel for temperature and time adjustments.
- Masterbuilt MB20074719 40-inch Electric Smoker: With a larger capacity, this smoker is ideal for those who often cook for larger gatherings, and it includes Bluetooth technology for remote monitoring.
- Masterbuilt 20075315 Electric Smoker: Known for its unique combination of a built-in meat probe and easy-to-use digital controls, this model is perfect for beginners and seasoned chefs alike.
- Masterbuilt MES 130B Digital Electric Smoker: This model is favored for its versatile cooking options and reliable performance, featuring a side-loading wood chip tray for easy refills.
The Masterbuilt MB20071117 30-inch Electric Smoker is popular for its user-friendly digital control panel that allows precise adjustments of temperature and cooking time, making it suitable for beginners. Its compact size fits well in smaller spaces while still providing enough cooking area for most smoking needs.
The Masterbuilt MB20074719 40-inch Electric Smoker stands out due to its larger capacity, accommodating multiple racks of food, which is perfect for parties or family events. The inclusion of Bluetooth technology allows users to monitor and control the smoker from a smartphone, enhancing the cooking experience.
The Masterbuilt 20075315 Electric Smoker is designed with a built-in meat probe thermometer that ensures meats are cooked to the perfect temperature, making it an excellent choice for those who want to achieve consistent results. Its digital controls simplify the smoking process, allowing for precise temperature management.
The Masterbuilt MES 130B Digital Electric Smoker is known for its versatility, featuring a side-loading wood chip tray that allows for easy additions of wood chips without having to open the main door, thus maintaining the internal temperature. This model’s reliable performance makes it a favorite among those who enjoy smoking various types of food.
What Unique Features Set Each Model Apart?
The best Masterbuilt electric smokers are distinguished by several unique features that cater to different needs and preferences.
- Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker: This model features a digital control panel that allows for precise temperature and time adjustments, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned smokers alike.
- Masterbuilt MB20074719 Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker: Equipped with Bluetooth technology, this smoker allows users to monitor and control cooking settings from their smartphones, enhancing convenience and flexibility.
- Masterbuilt MB20074721 40-Inch Electric Smoker: This larger model offers ample cooking space and multiple racks, perfect for smoking larger cuts of meat or multiple dishes at once.
- Masterbuilt MB20071119 30-Inch Electric Smoker: Compact and user-friendly, this model is perfect for those with limited space or who are just starting their smoking journey.
- Masterbuilt MB20078715 Electric Smoker with Window: The built-in viewing window allows users to easily monitor the smoking process without opening the door, which helps maintain a consistent temperature.
The Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker stands out for its intuitive digital control panel, which simplifies the smoking process with precise settings that can easily be adjusted. This feature is particularly helpful for those new to smoking, as it minimizes the risk of overcooking.
The Masterbuilt MB20074719 Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker takes convenience to the next level with its Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to control the smoker remotely via a mobile app. This feature is ideal for multitaskers who want to keep an eye on their meat without being tied to the smoker.
For larger gatherings, the Masterbuilt MB20074721 40-Inch Electric Smoker is an excellent choice, as it provides substantial cooking space with multiple racks. This makes it easier to prepare various foods simultaneously, accommodating bigger cuts of meat or larger quantities of smaller items.
The Masterbuilt MB20071119 30-Inch Electric Smoker is designed for those with limited outdoor space, offering a compact smoking solution without compromising on performance. This model is particularly popular among urban dwellers who want to enjoy smoking without needing a large setup.
Finally, the Masterbuilt MB20078715 Electric Smoker with Window is unique due to its viewing window, which allows users to monitor the smoking process without opening the door. This feature ensures that heat and smoke remain inside the smoker, resulting in better cooking efficiency and flavor retention.
How Can You Maximize Performance with Your Masterbuilt Electric Smoker?
Using quality wood chips is crucial because different types of wood impart unique flavors to the meat; for example, hickory provides a strong, bold flavor, while applewood offers a milder, sweeter smoke.
Maintaining proper ventilation is important as it helps control the temperature and smoke levels inside the smoker; too much smoke can lead to bitterness in the meat, while too little can result in undercooked food.
Monitoring the internal temperature of your meat ensures it is cooked safely and to your desired doneness, preventing overcooking or undercooking, which can ruin your barbecue experience.
Keeping the smoker clean is vital for maximizing performance; built-up residue can affect the flavor of your food and the efficiency of the smoker, so regular maintenance is key to great results.
What Do Users Say About Their Experiences with Masterbuilt Electric Smokers?
Users have shared a variety of experiences regarding their Masterbuilt electric smokers, often highlighting their functionality, ease of use, and quality of smoked food.
- Ease of Use: Many users appreciate the user-friendly design of Masterbuilt electric smokers, which allow even beginners to achieve great results without extensive knowledge of smoking techniques.
- Temperature Control: Users often praise the precise temperature control features, which enable them to maintain consistent heat levels throughout the smoking process, ensuring perfectly cooked meats.
- Build Quality: Customers frequently comment on the sturdy construction of Masterbuilt electric smokers, noting that they are built to last and withstand outdoor conditions.
- Flavor Quality: A common positive remark is about the rich flavor imparted to the food, with users indicating that the electric smoker produces results comparable to traditional smokers.
- Size Options: Users enjoy the variety of size options available, allowing them to choose a model that fits their cooking needs, whether for small family meals or larger gatherings.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Many reviewers mention the ease of cleaning the electric smoker, as removable components make maintenance straightforward and hassle-free.
- Smart Technology: Some models come equipped with smart technology, and users appreciate the ability to monitor and control the smoker via smartphone apps, adding convenience to the smoking process.