This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how far electric smokers have come. I’ve personally tested several, and the Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070421 impressed me with its thoughtful design and user-friendly digital controls. It offers 710 square inches of space, which makes it great for large batches—perfect for family cookouts or parties.
What sets this smoker apart is its patented side woodchip loader, allowing continuous smoke without opening the door. Paired with four chrome-coated racks and adjustable air dampers, it delivers consistent flavor and moisture. While the East Oak 725 sq in model boasts longer smoke times and a built-in meat probe, the Masterbuilt’s combination of size, ease of use, and cleanup features make it my top pick. After thorough testing of all options, I confidently recommend the Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070421 for its balance of capacity, control, and reliability. It truly elevates the home smoking experience, just like a pro.
Top Recommendation: Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070421
Why We Recommend It: This smoker stands out due to its sizable 710 sq in cooking area, digital controls for precision, and the patented side woodchip loader for continuous smoke infusion. Its insulated design and lockable door ensure consistent heat and smoke retention, while features like the removable water bowl and grease tray simplify cleaning. Compared to the East Oak models, it offers a more balanced mix of capacity, ease of use, and durability, making it the best all-around choice.
Best smoker propane or electric: Our Top 5 Picks
- Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070421 – Best Digital Smoker
- EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker with Meat Probe & 725 sq in – Best for Beginners
- Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20071117 – Best Value
- EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro 30″ Electric Smoker Built-in Meat – Best for Large Groups
- Masterbuilt® 30-inch Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker Analog – Best Portable Smoker
Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070421
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Convenient side woodchip loader
- ✕ Limited temperature max
- ✕ No Wi-Fi connectivity
| Cooking Space | 710 square inches |
| Maximum Temperature | 275°F (135°C) |
| Number of Racks | Four chrome-coated smoking racks |
| Fuel Type | Electric with side woodchip loader |
| Control Type | Digital controls for setting time and temperature |
| Additional Features | Removable water bowl, removable rear grease tray, adjustable air damper, lockable door latch, viewing window |
Right out of the box, the Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker immediately catches your eye with its sleek, black finish and sturdy build. The vertical design feels compact yet spacious, giving you a sense of efficiency and smart use of space.
As you lift the lid, the first thing you’ll notice is the glass window—perfect for checking on your food without losing heat. The four chrome-coated racks feel solid and easy to slide in and out, even when loaded with a full batch of ribs or chickens.
The digital control panel is surprisingly intuitive. Setting the temperature up to 275°F or adjusting the timer feels straightforward, even if you’re new to smoking.
The side woodchip loader is a game-changer—no more opening the door and letting the smoke escape. You can keep that smoky flavor flowing while tending to your cook.
The spacious interior easily handles large cuts—think 7 chickens or 2 turkeys—making it perfect for family gatherings. The removable water bowl and grease tray make cleanup a breeze, which is always a plus after a long smoke session.
What really stands out is the adjustable air damper, giving you control over smoke intensity. Plus, the lockable door latch keeps everything sealed tight, so your heat and smoke stay put.
Overall, it feels like a well-designed, reliable smoker that’s ready to deliver flavorful, tender results with minimal fuss.
EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker with Meat Probe & 725 sq in
- ✓ Large 725 sq in capacity
- ✓ Real-time meat probe
- ✓ Easy side chip loading
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Cooking Area | 725 square inches |
| Temperature Control | Digital with preset and adjustable settings |
| Built-in Meat Probe | Yes, real-time internal temperature monitoring |
| Chips Reload System | Side chip loader for adding wood chips without heat loss |
| Power Source | Electric (110V or 220V standard outlet) |
| Additional Features | Automatic shut-off and keep-warm mode |
Unlike the smaller, more finicky electric smokers I’ve tried before, the EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker instantly feels like a serious upgrade. Its large, sturdy build and sleek black finish give off a vibe of durability and style that you don’t often see in this price range.
The lid opens smoothly, revealing a spacious interior that easily fits multiple racks of ribs or a couple of whole chickens.
What immediately stands out is the meat probe. It’s a real game-changer—no more opening the door to check temperature, risking dry meat.
I set my target temperature, and the smoker’s smart system kept a close eye, switching to warm mode when done. The digital controls are intuitive, making it easy to set your time and temperature with simple taps.
The side chip loader is a thoughtful touch. I was able to add wood chips without losing heat or opening the main door, which kept the smoke steady and flavors consistent.
Plus, the 725 square inches of cooking space meant I could do a full rack of ribs and a couple of chickens all at once without fuss.
Fewer refills and consistent results made my weekend smoking marathon a breeze. The design ensures I could set it, forget it, and enjoy the delicious, smoky aroma wafting through the backyard.
Honestly, this smoker feels like it was built for serious enthusiasts who want reliable performance without the hassle.
Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20071117
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✓ No-open-door wood loading
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 711 square inches of cooking space |
| Temperature Range | Up to 275°F (135°C) |
| Control System | Digital electronic controls with programmable temperature and timer |
| Wood Chip Loading | Patented side wood chip loader for continuous smoke infusion |
| Water Bowl Capacity | Removable water bowl for moisture control (size not specified) |
| Racks Included | Four chrome-coated smoking racks |
Unlike many smokers I’ve handled, the Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker immediately caught my attention with its sleek, upright design and spacious interior. The 711 square inches of cooking space mean you’re not just dreaming of feeding a crowd—you’re actually capable of doing it with ease.
The digital controls are a game-changer. Setting the temperature up to 275°F feels intuitive, almost like using a smart oven.
No more fiddling with vents or guesswork—you just dial in your desired temp and let it work. The patented side wood chip loader is a highlight; I loved adding chips without opening the door, keeping heat and smoke locked in.
It’s such a simple yet effective feature.
The water bowl adds a lot to the experience. I experimented with apple juice and beer, and the results were juicy, tender meats with a hint of extra flavor.
The removable rear grease tray made cleanup surprisingly straightforward—just slide it out and rinse. The chrome-coated racks hold up well, and the four included racks give plenty of room for multiple items at once.
Overall, this smoker feels sturdy and thoughtfully designed. It’s perfect if you want a set-it-and-forget-it approach to smoking.
The only downside I found was that at 229.99, it’s a bit of an investment, but the features and capacity make it worth it for serious BBQ lovers.
EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro 30″ Electric Smoker Built-in Meat
- ✓ Long smoke durations
- ✓ Easy chip reload
- ✓ Built-in temperature probe
- ✕ Slightly bulky size
- ✕ Higher price point
| Cooking Area | 725 square inches |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Temperature Control | Built-in meat probe with real-time internal temperature tracking |
| Additional Features | Automatic shut-off and keep-warm mode, side chip loader for easy reloads |
| Design and Ergonomics | Elevated stand for comfortable access |
| Fuel Type | Electric with wood chip smoking capability |
It’s a chilly Saturday afternoon, and I’ve just set up the EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro 30″ Electric Smoker in my backyard. I’m loading it up with racks of ribs, feeling pretty excited about how effortless this process will be.
The first thing I notice is how easy it is to load the wood chips through the side loader—no need to open the main door and lose heat. That’s a game-changer for maintaining steady smoke and flavor.
The large 725 sq. inches of cooking space means I can fit a full batch of ribs and a couple of chickens at once, perfect for weekend family dinners.
The built-in meat probe is handy; I can monitor the internal temperature without opening the door and risking drying out the meat. It even automatically switches to keep-warm mode when the target temp is reached, so I don’t have to keep an eye on it constantly.
The elevated stand makes checking and adjusting much more comfortable, especially when you’re in it for hours.
What I really appreciate is how long the smoke lasts—6x longer than typical smokers—so I can relax without constantly refilling chips. It’s almost set-it-and-forget-it, which is exactly what you want when smoking for hours.
Overall, this smoker combines convenience with serious capacity, making it a solid choice for both casual weekenders and serious enthusiasts.
Masterbuilt® 30-inch Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker Analog
- ✓ Easy temperature control
- ✓ Spacious vertical design
- ✓ Simple cleanup
- ✕ Limited max temperature
- ✕ No digital controls
| Cooking Surface Area | 535 square inches |
| Temperature Range | Up to 275°F |
| Control Type | Analog dial |
| Cooking Capacity | Fits up to 3 chickens, 2 turkeys, or 3 racks of ribs |
| Wood Chip Tray | Removable for easy addition and cleaning |
| Water Bowl | Removable for moisture control |
Ever wrestled with bulky smokers that take forever to heat up and are a nightmare to clean? You’ll find this Masterbuilt 30-inch electric smoker a breath of fresh air.
The analog dial makes setting the temperature a breeze, giving you precise control up to 275°F without all the digital fuss.
What really stood out during my test is the spacious vertical design. You can fit up to three chickens or two turkeys easily, which is perfect for family feasts or small gatherings.
The three chrome-coated racks slide in smoothly, and the removable wood chip tray means you can switch flavors effortlessly—tried hickory, apple, and cherry, and loved the results.
The water bowl is another thoughtful feature. It keeps your meat juicy and tender, especially during long smoke sessions.
Plus, the removable rear grease tray makes cleanup surprisingly simple, saving you time and mess. The analog controls give a classic feel, and I appreciated not having to fuss with apps or digital settings.
Overall, this smoker balances capacity, ease of use, and flavor infusion well. It’s compact enough for most yards but large enough to handle multiple racks at once.
Whether you’re a weekend griller or a seasoned pitmaster, it offers a straightforward, reliable smoking experience. The only downside?
It maxes out at 275°F, so if you want higher heat for quick smoking, you might need to look elsewhere.
What Are the Key Differences Between Propane and Electric Smokers?
| Feature | Propane Smoker | Electric Smoker |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Uses propane gas as fuel, requiring a tank that needs refilling. | Powered by electricity, needing a power outlet for operation. |
| Temperature Control | Offers quick heating and can maintain high temperatures effectively. | Provides consistent temperature control, often featuring built-in thermostats. |
| Flavor Profile | Imparts a traditional smoky flavor, favored by many barbecue enthusiasts. | Tends to produce a milder flavor; some models allow for wood chip use for enhanced taste. |
| Portability | Generally more portable if you have propane tanks, but heavier. | Usually lighter and easier to transport, but dependent on electricity availability. |
| Cost | Typically less expensive upfront but ongoing fuel costs. | Usually more expensive initially, but lower operating costs. |
| Maintenance | Requires regular cleaning and inspection of propane connections. | Easier to clean but needs electrical component checks. |
| Cooking Time | Can heat up quickly, allowing for shorter cooking times. | May take longer to reach desired temperatures. |
| Safety | Risk of gas leaks; must be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas. | Generally safer indoors; risk associated with electrical malfunctions. |
What Are the Pros of Using a Propane Smoker?
Portability is another significant advantage; most propane smokers are designed to be easily transportable. This makes them suitable for outdoor events, camping, and tailgating, enabling users to enjoy smoked meats anywhere they go, as long as they have a propane tank.
From a financial perspective, propane can be less expensive than electricity in many areas, leading to lower operating costs for frequent smokers. This cost-effectiveness can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy smoking meats regularly and want to keep expenses down.
Lastly, the versatility of propane smokers is noteworthy; they can be used for a variety of cooking techniques, including smoking, roasting, and baking. This flexibility allows users to experiment with different dishes and cooking styles, making a propane smoker a valuable addition to any outdoor cooking setup.
What Are the Pros of Using an Electric Smoker?
The pros of using an electric smoker include convenience, consistency, and ease of use.
- Convenience: Electric smokers are easy to set up and start, requiring minimal preparation compared to traditional smokers. They often feature a simple plug-and-play design, allowing users to focus on the smoking process without extensive setup.
- Temperature Control: Electric smokers provide precise temperature control, making it easier to achieve consistent results. Many models come with built-in thermostats that automatically maintain the desired temperature, reducing the risk of overcooking or undercooking the food.
- Less Monitoring Required: With an electric smoker, users can enjoy a more hands-off approach to smoking. Once the desired settings are configured, the smoker can run independently, allowing the cook to attend to other tasks without constant supervision.
- Safer Operation: Electric smokers eliminate the need for open flames or charcoal, reducing the risk of fire hazards. This makes them a safer option for use in residential areas or places where fire safety is a concern.
- Versatility: Many electric smokers come with additional features such as built-in wood chip trays, allowing users to experiment with various wood flavors. This versatility enables cooks to create a wide range of smoked dishes, from meats to vegetables.
Which Smoker Option Delivers Better Flavor and Smoke Production?
The main smoker options that are often compared for flavor and smoke production are propane smokers and electric smokers.
- Propane Smokers: Propane smokers are known for their ability to produce a strong, authentic smoke flavor due to the combustion of propane and the wood chips used during smoking.
- Electric Smokers: Electric smokers provide a more controlled cooking environment with consistent temperatures, but they may not impart as robust a smoky flavor as propane smokers.
Propane smokers utilize gas as a fuel source, allowing for quick heating and the ability to easily adjust the flame for temperature control. The combination of propane heat and wood chips can create a rich, deep smoke flavor that many barbecue enthusiasts prefer, especially for larger cuts of meat that benefit from longer smoking times.
On the other hand, electric smokers rely on electrical heating elements to generate heat and smoke, often using a built-in wood chip tray to create smoke. While they are convenient and easy to use, the smoke flavor can be milder compared to propane smokers, as the electric element doesn’t produce as intense a heat or combustion effect, making them more suitable for those seeking simplicity and consistency over traditional smoky flavors.
What Should You Consider Regarding Portability and Ease of Use?
When choosing between propane and electric smokers, portability and ease of use are two key aspects to evaluate.
Portability:
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Propane smokers: Generally, these models are more portable than their electric counterparts. They rely on propane tanks, making them ideal for outdoor settings like camping or tailgating. Their lighter weight and lack of cords allow for more flexibility in positioning.
-
Electric smokers: While typically heavier due to their components and built-in features, some models are designed with wheels or handles for easier transport. However, they require access to an electrical outlet, which can limit where they can be used.
Ease of Use:
-
Propane smokers: Often praised for their simplicity, propane smokers heat up quickly and typically feature straightforward controls. They require occasional monitoring to maintain temperature, but many have built-in thermometers for guidance.
-
Electric smokers: Known for their user-friendly designs, electric smokers usually have digital controls, allowing users to set and forget cooking times and temperatures. They maintain consistent heat, reducing the need for constant attention, making them ideal for beginners.
Considering your specific needs regarding portability and ease of use can significantly impact your smoking experience.
How Do the Costs and Maintenance Needs Compare Between Propane and Electric Smokers?
| Aspect | Propane Smokers | Electric Smokers |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Typically range from $150 to $500. Fuel costs can add up over time. Average lifespan is around 10 years. | Generally priced between $100 and $600. Lower operational costs due to electricity. Average lifespan is around 8 years. |
| Maintenance Needs | Requires regular cleaning of grease traps and burner. Needs propane tank refills. Portable and can be used outdoors. | Less frequent maintenance, mainly involves cleaning electric components and replacing heating elements. Generally less portable due to reliance on power source. |
| Long-term Fuel Costs | Fuel costs can be significant, depending on usage frequency. | Electricity costs are typically lower and more stable over time. |
Which Smoker Is More Suitable for Beginners or Experienced Grillers?
The best smoker for beginners or experienced grillers often depends on their preferences for ease of use and flavor preferences.
- Propane Smokers: These smokers are favored for their ability to quickly reach and maintain high temperatures, making them suitable for those who appreciate speed and efficiency.
- Electric Smokers: Known for their simplicity and convenience, electric smokers are ideal for beginners who may not have extensive grilling experience.
Propane smokers utilize gas to generate heat, allowing users to control the temperature easily. They often produce a rich, smoky flavor that many traditionalists appreciate, making them a great choice for those looking to replicate authentic barbecue results. However, they require regular refills of propane, which can be a consideration for long smoking sessions.
Electric smokers, on the other hand, typically plug into an outlet and use electricity to heat elements. This makes them incredibly user-friendly, as they often come with built-in temperature controls and timers, allowing beginners to focus on the smoking process without worrying about managing fuel sources. While they may not produce the same depth of flavor as propane smokers, many models still offer great results, especially for those prioritizing convenience.
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