5 Best Electric Smokers Under 500 (Tested) 2023

Best ones you can find for under $500 Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a backyard barbecue newbie, finding the perfect electric smoker can be a game-changer for your culinary adventures. So, stick around if you’re ready to infuse mouthwatering smoky flavors into your favorite meats, fish, and veggies while keeping things affordable.

We’ll be exploring some fantastic options that offer top-notch performance and incredible value, all without burning a hole in your pocket. Get ready to unlock a whole new world of delicious possibilities as we uncover the best electric smokers under $500 that will make you the envy of your neighborhood cookouts!

At a Glance:

5 Best Electric Smokers Under 500

DesignRetailer
Best Pick1. Masterbuilt Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker
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2. Char-Broil  Digital Electric Smoker
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Staff Pick3. Dyna-Glo 30" Digital Electric Smoker
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4. Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow 30-Inch Electric Smoker
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Budget Pick5. Cuisinart COS-330 Vertical Electric Smoker
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1. Masterbuilt Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker

Best Pick
SpecificationDetails
BrandMasterbuilt
ModelMB20074719
Power SourceElectric
Cooking Area721 square inches
Temperature Range100°F to 275°F
Bluetooth ConnectivityYes
MaterialSteel
Weight73 pounds
Dimensions19.9 x 20.1 x 33.5 inches
Warranty1-year limited warranty

Now, let’s dive into a detailed review of the Masterbuilt MB20074719 Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker:

As an avid barbecue enthusiast, I’ve always been on the lookout for the perfect electric smoker that combines convenience, advanced features, and mouthwatering results. Well, my search finally came to an end when I discovered the Masterbuilt MB20074719 Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker. This fantastic smoker has truly taken my outdoor cooking game to new heights.

One of the standout features of this smoker is its Bluetooth connectivity, which allows me to control and monitor the cooking process right from my smartphone. No more constantly checking the temperature or fumbling with controls. With a few taps on my phone, I can easily adjust the temperature, set timers, and even receive notifications when my food is perfectly smoked and ready to be devoured.

With a generous cooking area of 721 square inches, I can smoke a wide variety of meats, including ribs, brisket, and whole chicken, all at once. The spacious interior provides ample room for my culinary creations, allowing me to cook for a large gathering of friends and family without any hassle.

The temperature range of 100°F to 275°F offers versatility in cooking, whether I want to slow-smoke a tender pork shoulder or quickly grill some mouthwatering burgers. The precise digital controls make it effortless to maintain a consistent temperature, ensuring that my food turns out perfectly cooked every time.

The Masterbuilt MB20074719 is built to last, thanks to its sturdy steel construction. It feels robust and well-crafted, giving me confidence in its durability. The overall design is also user-friendly, with a convenient side-loading wood chip tray and a removable drip pan for easy cleaning after each use.

Pros

  • Bluetooth connectivity allows convenient control and monitoring from a smartphone.
  • Ample cooking space to accommodate large quantities of food.
  • Versatile temperature range for a wide range of smoking and grilling options.
  • Sturdy steel construction ensures durability.
  • User-friendly design with easy-to-clean components.

Cons

  • The Bluetooth connection range may vary depending on the environment.
  • Some users have reported issues with the accuracy of the built-in meat probe.


2. Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker

SpecificationsDetails
Dimensions18.1 x 16.5 x 32.5 inches (W x D x H)
Cooking Area725 square inches
Temperature Range100°F to 400°F
Power750 watts
MaterialSteel
Control TypeDigital
Number of Racks4
Warranty1 year

When it comes to smoking your favorite meats, the Char-Broil 17202004 Digital Electric Smoker is a game-changer. This sleek and modern smoker not only looks impressive but also delivers outstanding performance that will leave you craving for more. As an avid grilling enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of using this smoker for several months, and it has truly exceeded my expectations.

One of the standout features of this smoker is its generous cooking area. With a spacious 725 square inches of cooking space spread across four racks, you’ll have plenty of room to smoke a variety of meats, fish, and vegetables all at once. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue for friends or simply indulging in some mouthwatering smoked ribs for yourself, this smoker has got you covered.

The digital control panel is another highlight of this Char-Broil electric smoker. It allows for precise temperature adjustments, ranging from 100°F to 400°F, giving you full control over the smoking process. The intuitive interface makes it easy to set and monitor the temperature, ensuring consistent and perfectly cooked results every time. Plus, the built-in meat probe thermometer lets you keep an eye on the internal temperature of your food without having to open the smoker and disrupt the cooking process.

In terms of construction, the Char-Broil 17202004 Digital Electric Smoker is built to last. The sturdy steel construction not only provides durability but also helps to retain heat efficiently, resulting in optimal smoking conditions. The double-wall insulation further enhances heat retention and ensures that your food is cooked evenly from all sides.

Now, let’s talk about the balance of this electric smoker. While it offers a spacious cooking area and advanced digital controls, it strikes an outstanding balance in terms of ease of use. The setup process is straightforward, and the user-friendly interface makes operating the smoker a breeze. Additionally, the removable grease tray and water pan make cleaning up a hassle-free task, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your delicious smoked creations.

Pros

  • Spacious cooking area with four racks
  • Precise digital temperature control
  • Built-in meat probe thermometer
  • Durable steel construction for heat retention
  • User-friendly interface and easy cleanup

Cons

  • Limited one-year warranty

3. Dyna-Glo 30″ Digital Electric Smoker

Staff Pick
SpecificationDetails
ModelDGU732BDE-D
Dimensions20.7″ x 34.5″ x 47″
Cooking Area732 square inches
Temperature Range100°F to 300°F
Power800 watts
MaterialHeavy-duty steel
Digital ControlsYes
Number of Racks4
Wood Chip Capacity15 pounds
Warranty1-year limited

When it comes to smoking meats to perfection, the Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D 30″ Digital Electric Smoker has undoubtedly earned its spot in my backyard. This reliable and feature-packed electric smoker has taken my culinary adventures to new heights.

One of the standout features of this smoker is its spacious cooking area. With 732 square inches of cooking space spread across four racks, I can easily smoke large cuts of meat, racks of ribs, or even multiple dishes simultaneously. This is perfect for hosting gatherings or preparing meals for the whole family.

The digital controls on the Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D are a game-changer. They allow me to effortlessly set and monitor the temperature, ensuring precise and consistent results every time. The temperature range from 100°F to 300°F provides enough versatility to smoke a wide range of meats and achieve the desired level of tenderness and flavor.

The construction of this electric smoker is built to last. Made from heavy-duty steel, it retains heat efficiently and withstands the test of time. The sturdy build instills confidence in its durability and ensures that it can handle frequent use without any issues.

One feature that I particularly appreciate is the large wood chip capacity. With a 15-pound wood chip capacity, I can load up the smoker and let it work its magic for hours without worrying about constantly refilling it. This allows me to sit back, relax, and enjoy the cooking process without interruptions.

Pros

  • Spacious cooking area with four racks for ample smoking capacity.
  • Digital controls for precise temperature management.
  • Durable and well-built with heavy-duty steel construction.
  • Generous wood chip capacity reduces the need for frequent refills.
  • Provides consistent results with even heat distribution.

Cons

  • May require some time to familiarize yourself with the digital controls.
  • The exterior can get hot during operation, so caution is necessary.
  • The power cord could be longer for more flexible placement options.

4. Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow 30-Inch Electric Smoker

SpecificationDetails
ModelMasterbuilt Smoke Hollow 30162E
Dimensions30 inches (H) x 16 inches (W) x 14 inches (D)
Weight46.5 pounds
Cooking Space548 square inches
Power SourceElectric
Temperature Range100°F to 400°F
Thermostat ControlYes
Cooking RacksThree chrome-plated racks
Warranty1-year limited warranty

Now let’s dive into a detailed review of the Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow 30162E Electric Smoker.

Review: When it comes to electric smokers, the Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow 30162E is a solid contender that packs a punch in terms of performance and convenience. As an avid barbecue enthusiast, I have had the pleasure of using this smoker for a while, and it has truly transformed my outdoor cooking experience.

One of the standout features of the Smoke Hollow 30162E is its spacious cooking area. With 548 square inches of cooking space spread across three chrome-plated racks, you’ll have ample room to smoke a variety of meats, fish, vegetables, and even sausages for your family and friends. It’s perfect for hosting backyard gatherings or enjoying a delicious smoked meal at home.

What sets this electric smoker apart is its precise temperature control. The built-in thermostat allows you to easily adjust the temperature between 100°F and 400°F, giving you the flexibility to smoke your food to perfection. Whether you prefer low and slow smoking or a higher temperature for faster cooking, this smoker can handle it all.

The Smoke Hollow 30162E is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The digital control panel is straightforward to navigate, allowing you to set the desired temperature and cooking time with ease. It also features a convenient viewing window, so you can watch your food without opening the door and losing heat.

Another notable aspect of this smoker is its sturdy construction. The unit is well-built and durable, ensuring long-lasting performance. The adjustable legs provide stability, even on uneven surfaces, and the double-walled construction helps to retain heat efficiently, resulting in consistent cooking temperatures and deliciously smoky flavors.

Pros

  • Ample cooking space with three chrome-plated racks
  • Precise temperature control with a wide temperature range
  • User-friendly digital control panel
  • Sturdy and durable construction
  • Convenient viewing window

Cons

  • Lack of built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring

5. Cuisinart COS-330 Vertical Electric Smoker

Budget Pick
SpecificationDetails
BrandCuisinart
ModelCOS-330
Cooking Space548 square inches
Power1500 watts
Temperature Range100°F to 400°F
Number of Racks3
MaterialSteel
Dimensions22 x 19 x 37.5 inches
Weight51.5 pounds

Now, let’s dive into a detailed review of the Cuisinart COS-330 Vertical Electric Smoker:

When it comes to electric smokers, the Cuisinart COS-330 is a game-changer that brings convenience and mouthwatering flavors right to your backyard. As a passionate barbecue enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing this incredible smoker firsthand.

One of the standout features of the COS-330 is its generous cooking space. With 548 square inches of room across three racks, you can easily smoke a variety of meats, fish, or even vegetables all at once. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a backyard feast, this smoker has got you covered.

Setting up the COS-330 is a breeze. It’s designed with user-friendliness in mind, allowing even beginners to achieve professional results. The temperature control system is precise and reliable, providing a range of 100°F to 400°F to suit different cooking techniques and recipes. You can effortlessly adjust the temperature using the easy-to-use dial, ensuring your food is cooked to perfection every time.

One aspect that impressed me about the COS-330 is its efficient heating element. With a powerful 1500-watt system, this smoker quickly reaches and maintains the desired temperature, giving you consistent results without any hassle. Whether you’re smoking low and slow or want to crank up the heat for a quicker cook, the COS-330 delivers with ease.

Durability is another notable feature of this electric smoker. Constructed with high-quality steel, it feels sturdy and well-built. The double-walled insulation helps to retain heat and ensures efficient smoking, while the tight-fitting door and latches prevent any heat loss during the cooking process.

Pros

  • Spacious cooking area with three racks for versatile smoking options.
  • User-friendly temperature control system for precise cooking.
  • The powerful 1500-watt heating element ensures quick and consistent heat.
  • Durable construction with double-walled insulation for efficient smoking.
  • Easy to assemble and operate, even for beginners.

Cons

  • The built-in thermometer may not always be accurate, so an external thermometer is recommended for precise temperature monitoring.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the best electric smoker under $500 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the correct information and guidance, you can select a smoker that fits your budget while still delivering excellent results. Consider factors such as cooking space, power, temperature control, build quality, ease of use, and additional features to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a novice griller, there’s an electric smoker out there that will elevate your outdoor cooking experience. So, get ready to unleash your culinary creativity, impress your friends and family, and savor the tantalizing flavors of perfectly smoked dishes. Happy smoking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use wood chips in an electric smoker?

 Answer: Yes, you can use wood chips in most electric smokers. They add a smoky flavor to your food. Simply soak the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes, drain them, and place them in the designated wood chip tray or box of your electric smoker.

Do I need to pre-season my electric smoker before using it?

Answer: It’s recommended to pre-season your electric smoker before the first use. This involves running the smoker at a high temperature (around 275°F) for a few hours with no food inside. It helps remove manufacturing residues and ensures a clean, safe, and odor-free cooking environment.

Can I leave my electric smoker outdoors?

Answer: Electric smokers are generally designed for outdoor use, but it’s advisable to protect them from extreme weather conditions. If you leave your smoker outside, consider using a smoker cover to shield it from rain, snow, and excessive sun exposure. Additionally, storing your smoker in a covered area when not in use can help prolong its lifespan.

How do I clean my electric smoker?

Answer: After each use, allow your electric smoker to cool down completely. Remove the racks, drip pan, and any other removable parts. Wash them with warm soapy water or use a mild cleaner. Wipe the interior of the smoker with a damp cloth or sponge. Avoid using harsh abrasives or chemicals. Regular cleaning will ensure optimal performance and prevent the buildup of grease and residue.

Can I use my electric smoker for cold smoking?

Answer: Most electric smokers are primarily designed for hot smoking, which involves cooking food at higher temperatures. Cold smoking requires lower temperatures (below 90°F) for extended periods, which can be challenging for some electric smokers. However, some models offer cold smoking attachments or additional features that enable cold smoking. Make sure to check the specifications and features of your specific electric smoker to determine if it supports cold smoking.


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