Hey there, barbecue enthusiasts and flavor aficionados! Are you on the hunt for a smoker that will take your backyard cookouts to the next level, without breaking the bank? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we’re diving into the world of smokers under $300.
At a Glance:
1. Masterbuilt MB20073519 Electric Smoker with Broiler
- Bluetooth connectivity for convenient control and monitoring.
- Integrated broiler adds versatility to your cooking options.
- Ample cooking space to accommodate large quantities of food.
- Precise temperature control for consistent cooking results.
- Sturdy steel construction ensures durability.
3. Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker and Premium Smoker Cover
- Ample cooking area for smoking large quantities of food.
- Vertical offset design for even heat distribution.
- Excellent temperature control for precise cooking.
- Durable construction and protection with the included Premium Smoker Cover.
- Easy to assemble and use, even for beginners.
5. Royal Gourmet CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
- Spacious cooking area for grilling and smoking.
- Offset smoker design for slow smoking and better temperature control.
- Adjustable charcoal pan for versatile heat control.
- Easy cleanup with a removable ash pan and porcelain-enameled cooking grates.
- Sturdy construction for durability.
- 6 Best Smokers Under 300
- 1. Masterbuilt MB20073519 Electric Smoker with Broiler
- 2. Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker
- 3. Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker and Premium Smoker Cover
- 4. Cuisinart COS-244 Vertical Propane Smoker with Temperature
- 5. Royal Gourmet CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
- 6. Z GRILLS ZPG-450A 2019 Upgrade Model Wood Pellet Grill
- Buying Guide: Best Smokers Under $300
- conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
6 Best Smokers Under 300
| Design | Smoker Grill | Retailer |
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Best Pick | Check Price | |
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Staff Pick | Check Price | |
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Budget Pick | Check Price | |
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1. Masterbuilt MB20073519 Electric Smoker with Broiler
Best Pick| Specification | Details |
| Brand | Masterbuilt |
| Model | MB20073519 |
| Type | Electric smoker with broiler |
| Size | 30 inch |
| Color | Black |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Temperature Range | 100°F to 275°F |
| Cooking Area | 730 square inches |
| Material | Steel |
| Weight | 73 pounds |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Masterbuilt MB20073519 Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker with Broiler, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer for my outdoor cooking adventures. This 30-inch black beauty combines advanced technology with traditional smoking techniques to deliver mouthwatering results. Let’s dive into its features and my personal experience with this impressive electric smoker.
One of the standout features of the MB20073519 is its built-in Bluetooth connectivity. This allows you to control and monitor your smoker from your smartphone or tablet using the Masterbuilt app. I found this feature incredibly convenient as I could adjust the temperature, and time, and even receive notifications without having to constantly check on the smoker.
The addition of the broiler in this electric smoker sets it apart from others in its class. It provides the option to broil or grill your food, giving you versatility in cooking techniques. Whether I wanted to smoke a juicy rack of ribs or sear a perfectly charred steak, this smoker delivered exceptional results.
With a spacious cooking area of 730 square inches, the MB20073519 provides ample room to smoke large quantities of food. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a feast for friends and family, this smoker can handle it all. I was able to smoke multiple racks of ribs and still had space for sides like vegetables or even a whole chicken.
The electric smoker offers a temperature range from 100°F to 275°F, allowing you to achieve precise cooking temperatures for various recipes. The digital control panel makes it easy to set and monitor the temperature, ensuring consistent heat throughout the smoking process. I appreciated the accuracy and reliability of the temperature control, which resulted in perfectly cooked and flavorful dishes.
Pros
- Bluetooth connectivity for convenient control and monitoring.
- Integrated broiler adds versatility to your cooking options.
- Ample cooking space to accommodate large quantities of food.
- Precise temperature control for consistent cooking results.
- Sturdy steel construction ensures durability.
Cons
- The smoker is relatively heavy, making it less portable compared to smaller models.
- Some users reported connectivity issues with the Bluetooth feature, although I personally did not experience any problems.
2. Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker
| Specification | Details |
| Brand | Char-Broil |
| Model | Analog Electric Smoker |
| Type | Electric smoker |
| Size | 544 square inches |
| Color | Black |
| Temperature Range | 100°F to 325°F |
| Cooking Area | 544 square inches |
| Material | Steel |
| Weight | 49.5 pounds |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker and it’s safe to say that this smoker exceeded my expectations. As someone who enjoys the flavors of slow-smoked meats, this electric smoker proved to be a reliable and efficient option for achieving delicious results. Let’s take a closer look at its features and my personal experience with this smoker.
The Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker offers a generous cooking area of 544 square inches. This allowed me to smoke a substantial amount of food, making it perfect for gatherings or family barbecues. The spacious interior comfortably accommodated multiple racks of ribs, a whole chicken, or even a brisket.
The analog temperature control system is straightforward and easy to use. With a temperature range from 100°F to 325°F, I had the flexibility to adjust the heat according to my desired cooking preferences. The built-in temperature gauge provided accurate readings, ensuring that my food cooked at the ideal temperature for maximum flavor.
Made from sturdy steel, this smoker is built to withstand the test of time. The solid construction not only ensures durability but also helps to retain heat for consistent cooking. I found the smoker to be well-built and capable of maintaining a steady temperature throughout the smoking process.
Cleaning up after a barbecue session can be a hassle, but the Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker made it much easier. The removable grease tray and ash pan simplified the cleaning process, allowing me to spend more time enjoying the delicious food and less time on maintenance.
Pros
- Ample cooking space to accommodate large quantities of food.
- Easy-to-use analog temperature control system.
- Durable steel construction for long-lasting performance.
- Simple and hassle-free cleaning process.
- Affordable price point compared to other smokers in its class.
Cons
- Lack of digital controls and advanced features found in more expensive models.
- Some users reported difficulties maintaining consistent temperatures in extreme weather conditions, although I did not encounter this issue personally.
3. Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker and Premium Smoker Cover
Staff Pick| Specification | Details |
| Brand | Dyna-Glo |
| Model | DGO1176BDC-D Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker |
| Type | Charcoal smoker |
| Size | 784 square inches |
| Color | Black |
| Temperature Range | 100°F to 400°F |
| Cooking Area | 784 square inches |
| Material | Steel |
| Weight | 57 pounds |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker, along with the Premium Smoker Cover. This combination has truly elevated my outdoor cooking experience, allowing me to achieve mouthwatering flavors and perfectly smoked meats. Let’s dive into the features and my personal experience with this charcoal smoker and its accompanying cover.
The Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D offers an impressive 784 square inches of cooking area. This generous space allowed me to smoke a variety of meats, including multiple racks of ribs, whole chicken, and even a turkey. Whether I was cooking for a small family gathering or hosting a backyard barbecue party, this smoker provided ample space to accommodate my needs.
The offset design of this smoker is a game-changer. Placing the charcoal and wood chips in a separate firebox next to the cooking chamber creates a more indirect heat source. This setup allows for a slower and more even cooking process, resulting in tender and flavorful meats. Additionally, the vertical design maximizes the cooking space while minimizing the footprint of the smoker.
With a temperature range from 100°F to 400°F, this charcoal smoker provides excellent heat control. The adjustable flue and chimney damper allow for precise temperature adjustments, ensuring that I could achieve the desired smoky flavor without any hassle. I found it easy to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the smoking process, thanks to the well-designed airflow system.
The included Premium Smoker Cover is a worthwhile addition to this setup. Made from durable materials, it offers protection against the elements, keeping the smoker in pristine condition. The cover’s snug fit and secure straps ensured that it stayed in place even during windy conditions. I appreciated the peace of mind knowing that my smoker was well-protected when not in use.
Pros
- Ample cooking area for smoking large quantities of food.
- Vertical offset design for even heat distribution.
- Excellent temperature control for precise cooking.
- Durable construction and protection with the included Premium Smoker Cover.
- Easy to assemble and use, even for beginners.
Cons
- The paint on the smoker may chip or peel over time, requiring touch-ups.
- The smoker’s large size may not be suitable for those with limited outdoor space.
4. Cuisinart COS-244 Vertical Propane Smoker with Temperature
| Specification | Details |
| Brand | Cuisinart |
| Model | COS-244 Vertical Propane Smoker |
| Type | Propane smoker |
| Size | 784 square inches |
| Color | Black |
| Temperature Range | 175°F to 450°F |
| Cooking Area | 784 square inches |
| Material | Steel |
| Weight | 69 pounds |
| Warranty | 3-year limited |
Cuisinart COS-244 Vertical Propane Smoker with Temperature & Smoke Control. This propane smoker has impressed me with its efficient performance and user-friendly features. Let’s delve into the details and my personal experience with this versatile smoker.
The Cuisinart COS-244 offers a generous 784 square inches of cooking area, providing ample space for smoking a variety of meats, including large cuts like briskets and whole racks of ribs. Whether I was cooking for a small gathering or a larger group, this smoker accommodated my needs with ease.
The use of propane as a fuel source makes this smoker incredibly convenient to use. It eliminates the need for constantly monitoring and adding charcoal or wood chips, allowing me to set it and forget it for long smoking sessions. The propane burner provides consistent heat, ensuring even cooking throughout.
One of the standout features of the COS-244 is its precise temperature control. With a temperature range from 175°F to 450°F, I had the flexibility to achieve various levels of smokiness and doneness. The adjustable gas supply and built-in thermometer allowed me to fine-tune the cooking process, resulting in perfectly smoked meats.
Setting up this smoker was a breeze, thanks to its well-designed assembly instructions. The sturdy construction and quality materials ensured durability and longevity. Additionally, the removable ash pan and grease tray made cleanup a breeze, saving me valuable time and effort.
Pros
- Generous cooking area for smoking large quantities of food.
- Convenient propane-powered operation.
- Precise temperature control for customized smoking.
- Easy assembly and cleanup.
- Sturdy construction for durability.
Cons
- The door latch may require occasional adjusting to maintain a tight seal.
- The temperature gauge may not be entirely accurate and could benefit from a secondary thermometer.
5. Royal Gourmet CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
Budget Pick| Specification | Details |
| Brand | Royal Gourmet |
| Model | CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker |
| Type | Charcoal grill with offset smoker |
| Size | 800 square inches |
| Color | Black |
| Cooking Area | 438 square inches (main chamber), 183 square inches (offset smoker) |
| Material | Steel |
| Weight | 57 pounds |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Royal Gourmet CC1830F Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker, and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. This versatile grill and smoker combo offers a fantastic cooking experience, allowing me to savor the flavors of slow-smoked meats. Let’s dive into the details and my personal experience with this exceptional charcoal grill.
The Royal Gourmet CC1830F offers a total cooking area of 800 square inches, providing plenty of space to grill and smoke your favorite foods. The main chamber offers 438 square inches of cooking space, while the offset smoker provides an additional 183 square inches. This allows you to cook for larger gatherings or multiple dishes simultaneously.
The offset smoker chamber allows for indirect cooking, which is perfect for slow smoking. It enables you to infuse your meats with the rich flavors of hardwood smoke, resulting in a tender and flavorful barbecue. The offset design also allows for better temperature control, ensuring even cooking throughout.
The charcoal pan in the main chamber is height-adjustable, allowing you to control the distance between the charcoal and the cooking grates. This feature provides flexibility in heat control, enabling you to sear steaks at high temperatures or slow cook your meats for hours with low and slow heat.
Cleaning up after a barbecue session can be a hassle, but the CC1830F makes it a breeze. The removable ash pan collects the ash and makes disposal quick and straightforward. The porcelain-enameled cooking grates are also easy to clean, ensuring that your grill is always ready for the next cookout.
Pros
- Spacious cooking area for grilling and smoking.
- Offset smoker design for slow smoking and better temperature control.
- Adjustable charcoal pan for versatile heat control.
- Easy cleanup with a removable ash pan and porcelain-enameled cooking grates.
- Sturdy construction for durability.
Cons
- The paint on the exterior may chip over time due to high heat exposure.
- The built-in thermometer may not be entirely accurate and could benefit from a secondary thermometer.
6. Z GRILLS ZPG-450A 2019 Upgrade Model Wood Pellet Grill
| Specification | Details |
| Brand | Z GRILLS |
| Model | ZPG-450A 2019 Upgrade Model |
| Type | Wood pellet grill and smoker |
| Size | 450 square inches |
| Color | Black |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F |
| Hopper Capacity | 15 pounds |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Weight | 84 pounds |
| Warranty | 3-year |
Z GRILLS ZPG-450A 2019 Upgrade Model Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, and I must say, it has truly revolutionized my outdoor cooking experience. This versatile grill and smoker combo offers exceptional convenience and delivers mouthwatering flavors that will leave you wanting more. Let’s take a closer look at the features and my personal experience with this outstanding wood pellet grill.
The ZPG-450A utilizes wood pellets as its fuel source, imparting a distinctive smoky flavor to your grilled and smoked dishes. The automated pellet feed system ensures consistent and even heat distribution, allowing you to achieve perfect results every time. The wood pellets also add a unique touch to your food, enhancing the overall taste and aroma.
With a cooking area of 450 square inches, this grill provides ample space to cook for a medium-sized gathering. Whether you’re grilling burgers for the family or smoking a rack of ribs for friends, there’s plenty of room to accommodate your culinary creations.
The ZPG-450A features a digital control board that allows you to easily set and maintain your desired cooking temperature. The temperature range of 180°F to 450°F provides versatility, allowing you to sear, smoke, or grill with precision. The digital display also shows the current temperature, ensuring you have full control over your cooking process.
This grill offers various cooking options, including grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, and braising. The wide temperature range and consistent heat distribution make it suitable for a wide range of recipes. Whether you’re craving juicy steaks, tender smoked brisket or even homemade pizza, the ZPG-450A has got you covered.
Pros
- Wood pellet technology for enhanced flavor.
- Large cooking area for a medium-sized gathering.
- Digital temperature control for precise cooking.
- Versatile cooking options for various recipes.
- Durable stainless steel construction.
- 3-year warranty for peace of mind.
Cons
- The hopper capacity may require frequent refilling during long cooking sessions.
- The grill’s weight may make it challenging to move around.
Buying Guide: Best Smokers Under $300
Welcome to the ultimate buying guide for finding the best smokers under $300! Whether you’re a seasoned smoking enthusiast or a beginner looking to explore the world of outdoor cooking, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider and provide expert recommendations to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive in!
1. Determine Your Smoking Needs:
Before diving into the options available, it’s essential to understand your smoking needs. Consider factors such as the number of people you typically cook for, the types of dishes you plan to smoke, and your preferred smoking method (charcoal, electric, propane, or pellet). This will help you narrow down your choices and find a smoker that suits your specific requirements.
2. Cooking Space and Capacity:
The cooking space and capacity of a smoker are crucial considerations, especially if you frequently entertain guests or have a large family. Look for smokers with ample cooking areas and multiple racks to accommodate different types of food simultaneously. This ensures you have enough space to smoke everything to perfection.
3. Temperature Control and Stability:
Achieving and maintaining consistent temperatures is vital for successful smoking. Look for smokers that offer adjustable vents, dampers, or digital temperature control systems. The ability to control the temperature precisely allows you to experiment with various smoking techniques and ensures your dishes turn out just the way you want them.
4. Construction and Durability:
Investing in a durable smoker is essential to ensure it lasts for years to come. Look for models made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or heavy-duty steel construction. Not only do these materials offer excellent heat retention and insulation, but they also withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
5. Ease of Use and Cleaning:
Consider how user-friendly a smoker is before making a purchase. Look for features like easy-to-read temperature gauges, intuitive controls, and convenient access to the firebox and ash pan. Additionally, removable racks and drip pans make cleaning a breeze, saving you time and effort.
6. Portability and Size:
If you plan to take your smoker on camping trips or tailgating adventures, portability is a key factor. Look for smokers that are lightweight, compact, and have sturdy handles or wheels for easy transportation. However, if portability is not a concern for you, larger smokers may offer more cooking space and additional features.
7. Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Don’t forget to read customer reviews and ratings to gain insights into the performance and reliability of the smokers you’re considering. Real-life experiences from other users can provide valuable information and help you make an informed decision.
Based on our research and expert opinion, we recommend considering the Z GRILLS ZPG-450A 2019 Upgrade Model Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker. It offers the convenience of wood pellet technology, a large cooking area, digital temperature control, versatile cooking options, and durable stainless steel construction. Another excellent option is the Masterbuilt MB20073519 Electric Smoker with Broiler, which provides easy-to-use digital controls, ample cooking space, and consistent temperature control.
conclusion
In conclusion, finding the best smoker under $300 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With careful consideration of your specific needs, preferences, and the features outlined in this buying guide, you can confidently choose a smoker that delivers fantastic results without breaking the bank. Whether you prefer the smoky flavor of charcoal, the convenience of electricity, the portability of propane, or the versatility of pellet smokers, there are options available to suit your style of cooking. Remember to read customer reviews and ratings to gain insights from real users and happy smoking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all smokers under 300 that offer excellent quality, performance, and durability?
It’s important to research and choose wisely based on your specific needs and preferences.
Can I achieve consistent temperature control with a smoker under $300?
Yes, you can! Many smokers in this price range offer temperature control features such as adjustable vents, dampers, or digital temperature control systems. While they may not have all the advanced bells and whistles, they can still provide stable and consistent temperatures for your smoking needs.
Are electric smokers under $300 as good as charcoal smokers?
The choice between electric and charcoal smokers ultimately depends on personal preference. Electric smokers offer convenience and ease of use, while charcoal smokers provide a traditional smoky flavor. Both types can produce delicious results, so it’s a matter of deciding which factors are most important to you.
Can I smoke large cuts of meat in a smoker under $300?
Absolutely! Many smokers in this price range come with ample cooking space and capacity to accommodate large cuts of meat. Be sure to check the specifications of the smoker you are considering to ensure it meets your specific needs.
Are smokers under $300 easy to clean?
Yes, most smokers in this price range are designed with ease of cleaning in mind. Look for models with features like accessible ash pans and removable grates, which make the cleaning process much simpler. However, it’s always a good idea to check customer reviews and ratings to get a better understanding of the cleaning experience with a particular smoker model.
