This is our review of the best smokers for beginners.
The best way to achieve delicious mouth-watering, smoke-filled barbecue is to use a BBQ smoker.
When it comes to barbecue, there are many different types of smokers available. These include pellet smokers, electric smokers, and charcoal smokers.
For beginners, we recommend starting with an electric smoker. Electric smokers are easy to use and maintain, making them perfect for those new to smoking meat.
We spent hours researching barbeque smokers to find the best smokers on the market for beginners. After careful consideration, we recommend the Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker as our top pick for the best smoker for beginners. This smoker is easy to use, has a large cooking area and maintains a consistent temperature.
- 710 square inches of cooking space
- Digital control board
- Patented side wood chip loader
- Porcelain-enameled steel construction
- Superior heat retention
- 2 cooking grates
- 1050 square inches of cooking space
- Up to 8 hours cooking time
- Built-in temperature gauge and meat thermometer
Contents
Best Smokers for Beginners
If you’re new to smoking meat, finding the right smoker can be overwhelming. With so many options available, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of the best smokers for beginners to use.
Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker – Best Overall Smoker
If you want to smoke delicious meat without the hassle of charcoal or propane, then the Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker is for you. It’s great for beginners and pros alike, and you’ll achieve competition-ready results in your own backyard.
The patented side wood chip loader lets you experiment with flavor without opening the smoker door, and the thermostat-temperature control ensures even, consistent smoking.
This Masterbuilt electric smoker is perfect for those who want to smoke food without the hassle of traditional smokers.
Its digital controls make it easy to use, and the patented side wood chip loader allows you to experiment with different flavors. The fully-insulated body ensures even cooking, and the smoker has plenty of room to cook multiple items at once.
One of the standout features of this smoker is its ease of use. The digital controls make it easy to set the cooking temperature and time, and the thermostat-temperature control ensures even, consistent smoking.
The patented side wood chip loader is also a great feature, as it allows you to add wood chips without opening the door and losing heat.
Another great feature of this smoker is its size. It’s big enough to hold multiple items at once, which is great for feeding a crowd. The fully-insulated body also ensures that your meat will cook evenly, which is important for achieving great flavor.
PROS
- Can operate in all weather conditions
- Large capacity
- Fully insulated body for maximum heat retention
- Easy to add woodchips
- Removable water bowl and grease tray for easy cleanup
CONS
- Digital control panel can be hard to read in direct sunlight.
- May have to cut large pieces of meat to fit.
Weber 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker – Best Budget Smoker
If you’re a beginner looking for that authentic smokehouse flavor at home, the Weber Smokey Mountain is a great option for you. With its two cooking grates, you can smoke several items at once, and its easily adjustable dampers allow for precision heat control.
With its high-quality construction and included features, the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is a great option for beginners looking to get started with smoking their own meats.
The porcelain-enameled steel construction ensures that it will last for years to come, and the two cooking grates allow for versatility in what you can smoke.
The included water pan and thermometer make it easy to ensure that your meats are cooking at the correct temperature, while the individual vents on the bowl and lid allow for precise heat control.
One potential downside to this particular Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is its weight. At 39.1 pounds, it may be difficult to move around, especially if you plan on taking it on the road. And, it requires charcoal as a fuel source, which can be more difficult to manage than electricity or gas.
Finally, the 18-inch size may be limiting for larger cuts of meat, so keep that in mind when deciding what to smoke.
PROS
- Durable and long-lasting
- Awesome smoke flavor
- Easy to add charcoal and wood
- Built-in thermometer
- Easy to regulate temperature and add moisture
CONS
- Access door may be hard to seal
PIT BOSS Wood Pellet Grill – Best Pellet Smoker
The PIT BOSS Wood Pellet Grill is a great option if you’re looking for a versatile smoker that can handle all your cooking needs. This smoker is perfect for beginners who want to experiment with different cooking techniques and flavors.
With 8-in-1 versatility, you can grill, smoke, bake, roast, sear, braise, barbecue, and char-grill any meats or veggies with one easy-to-use machine.
The PIT BOSS Wood Pellet Grill is perfect for families and parties. The smoker boasts 518 square inches of cooking surface, allowing you to cook larger quantities of food more efficiently.
This smoker is easy to maintain, thanks to porcelain-coated cooking grates and a simple-to-use grease management system that makes cleanup a breeze.
The PIT Boss is also stylish, with a bold mahogany finish that will stand out proudly when compared to run-of-the-mill grills. The smoker is also easy to use, with direct and indirect heat options that allow you to cook a wide range of foods.
PROS
- Can reach low and slow temperatures of 180°F or hot and fast heat up to 500°F
- Can cook low and slow or hot and fast
- 5 lb. pellet hopper
CONS
- The smoker is a bit heavy, weighing in at 83 pounds.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo – Best Premium Smoker
If you’re looking for a versatile smoker that can also grill, bake, roast, and sear, the Masterbuilt Gravity Series Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo is a great option. With its 1050 square inches of cooking space, you’ll have plenty of room to cook up a feast for friends and family.
This grill and smoker combo is perfect for those who want a versatile smoker that can also grill, bake, roast, and sear. With its DigitalFan, you can ensure precise temperature control between 225 – 700°F.
The Gravity Series reaches 225°F in 8 minutes or 700°F in 15 minutes to use as traditional charcoal grill or charcoal smoker.
The gravity-fed hopper holds up to 10 pounds of lump charcoal or 16 pounds of briquettes, providing up to 8 hours of cooking time.
The reversible smoke and sear cast-iron grates and fold away warming and smoking racks add versatility to your cooking, allowing you to cook a variety of foods at once.
This smoker is not for those who are looking for a portable option, as it is heavy and takes some effort to move around. Additionally, the price point may be too high for some beginners.
The digital control panel may take a little time to get use to. But with some practice, it can be a great tool to ensure precise temperature control.
PROS
- Digital control panel for precise temperature control
- Hopper size provides up to 8 hours cook time
- Reversible smoke and sear cast-iron grates
- Easy clean up
- WiFi Blutooth capability
CONS
- Weighs approximately 200 pounds, this smoker is heavy and difficult to move around
- Only a 1 year manufacturer warranty
Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker Grill – Runner-up Pellet Smoker
If you’re a beginner looking for a versatile smoker that can also grill, roast, sear, and braise, the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker Grill is an excellent option. With a huge 700 sq inches of grilling space, you can cook efficiently for a large group of people, making it perfect for home, parties, and tailgating.
This grill gives you 8-in-1 versatility. You will be able to bake, grill, smoke, BBQ, roast, braise, sear, and char-grill and create just about any dish you desire.
In addition to its versatility, the Z GRILLS smoker grill is also super easy to use. Just put enough pellets into the hopper, pick your desired temperature, and let Z GRILLS do the rest.
The rugged wheels make it easy to move around, and you can quickly roll your grill over snow, mud, sand, dirt, and any other terrain without breaking a sweat.
PROS
- Convenient and easy to use
- Large capacity (700 square inches)
- Durable construction for long lasting use
- Excellent temperature control
- Rugged wheels for easy movement
CONS
- Initial setup can be a bit time-consuming
- Minimal shelf area
Pit Barrel Cooker Classic Package – Best for Versatility
If you’re a beginner looking for a smoker, the Pit Barrel Cooker is a great option. It’s effortless to use and produces consistently great-tasting meat and veggies. The cooking possibilities are endless, whether you want to smoke ribs, brisket, burgers, or even desserts.
Recognized as one of the best drum smokers out there, the Pit Barrel Cooker is durable and made to withstand internal heat and weather conditions.
It is perfect for beginners who want to smoke meat with ease. It’s straightforward to use, and you don’t need to be an expert to produce great-tasting meat.
The vertical barrel cooker technology ensures that the heat is distributed evenly, which means you can cook your meat flawlessly every time.
One of the best features of the Pit Barrel Cooker is its versatility. You can hang ribs and brisket using the hooks and steel grill grate or use the custom GrillGrate for sear-marks and to smoke everything from burgers to desserts. The possibilities are endless, which means you can experiment with different recipes and techniques.
This smoker is also durable and made to withstand internal heat and weather conditions. It’s made with a superior-grade porcelain enamel finish that looks great and is designed to last. You can be confident that your investment will last for years to come.
The Pit Barrel Cooker is also portable, which means you can take it with you wherever you go. It’s lightweight and compact, which means it can easily fit in most vans, SUVs, and truck beds.
You can use the handles on the side to lift and transport it to wherever your grilling skills are in demand.
PROS
- Straightforward and easy to use
- Produces consistently great-tasting meat and veggies
- Lightweight, compact and portable
- Durable and made to last
- Versatile with endless cooking possibilities
CONS
- Some users say it’s a little smaller than expected
- No ash catcher
Masterbuilt 40″ Propane Smoker – Best Propane Smoker
Don’t sleep on gas smokers. They are easy to operate and affordable. And unlike electric smoker smokers, a power source is not required.
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly smoker that’s easy to use, then the Masterbuilt Propane Smoker might be the perfect fit for you. With its ThermoTemp innovation, you can set the temperature and walk away, without having to constantly monitor or adjust the temperature.
This smoker is great for smoking up to 16 chickens, 6 turkeys, 8 racks of ribs, or 8 pork butts, thanks to its four chrome-coated smoking racks.
One of the best features of this smoker is the temperature sensor that controls the burner to maintain the desired temperature, making it easy to use for beginners. You won’t have to constantly monitor or adjust the temperature, which means you can spend more time with your family and friends.
The safety valve shuts off the burner if the flame is extinguished, providing a safe smoking experience, which is especially important for beginners who might not be familiar with the process.
The tank fuel level gauge indicates the amount of propane in the tank, so you’ll never run out of fuel unexpectedly. This is a great feature that will save you time and hassle, as you won’t have to check the tank manually.
And last, but not least, a see through window is included so you can monitor food while you cook.
PROS
- Easy to operate
- Temperature sensor maintains accurate and stable temperature
- Safety valve shuts off the burner if the flame is extinguished
- Tank fuel level gauge included to monitor gas level
CONS
- Door seal not the best, so some smoke might escape.
Buying Guide for Best Smokers for Beginners
Buying your first smoker need not be a chore. When looking at the best smoker for a beginner, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your purchase:
Fuel Type
The type of fuel you choose will impact the flavor of your food. The most common options are wood, charcoal, and gas. Each has its own unique benefits and drawbacks.
Wood smokers offer a smoky flavor, but require more attention and maintenance. Charcoal smokers are more convenient than wood, but still require some effort to use. Gas smokers are the easiest to use, but may not provide the same depth of flavor as wood or charcoal.
Size
Consider how much food you plan to smoke at once. Smokers come in a range of sizes, from small portable models to large outdoor units. A larger smoker will allow you to smoke more food at once, but may not be practical if you have limited space.
Temperature Control
Temperature control is essential for achieving the perfect smoke. Look for a smoker with a built-in thermometer or temperature gauge. Some models also offer digital controls, which allow you to set and monitor the internal temperature of your smoker more precisely.
Construction
The construction of the smoker will impact its durability and performance. Make sure the smoker has a sturdy frame and high-quality materials. Stainless steel and cast iron are popular choices for their durability and heat retention.
Additional Features
Some smokers come with additional features that can enhance your smoking experience. For example, some models have built-in water pans for adding moisture to your food. Others have multiple racks for smoking different types of food at once.
Consider which features are important to you before making your purchase.
By considering these factors, you can find the best smoker for your needs and start enjoying delicious smoked meats and vegetables at home.
Choosing a Smoker for Beginners
When it comes to learning how to smoke meat, choosing the right smoker is crucial. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best for you. In this section, we’ll discuss two important factors to consider when choosing a smoker: cold smoking and the type of smoker.
Cold Smoking
Cold smoking is a process that involves smoking meat at a low temperature, typically below 100°F. This method is used to add flavor to the meat without cooking it.
If you’re interested in cold smoking, make sure to choose a smoker that is capable of maintaining low temperatures for an extended period of time. Some smokers come with a cold smoking attachment, while others require additional equipment to achieve the desired temperature.
Different Types of Smokers
There are several types of smokers to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are a few of the most popular types:
Charcoal Smokers
These smokers use charcoal as their heat source. These smokers can produce a rich, smoky flavor. They require a bit more attention and maintenance than other types of smokers, but many people prefer the taste they produce.
Electric Smokers
Electric smokers are easy to use and require minimal maintenance. They are a good option for beginners, as they allow you to set the temperature and forget about it. However, they don’t produce as much smoke as other types of smokers, which can result in a milder flavor.
When choosing an electric smoker, the most critical factor to consider is size. You want to make sure you get a smoker that is large enough to fit the amount of meat you plan to smoke but not so big that it’s challenging to control the temperature.
Gas Smokers
Gas smokers are similar to electric smokers in that they are easy to use and require minimal maintenance. They produce a stronger flavor than electric smokers, but not as strong as charcoal smokers. They are a good option if you want a balance between convenience and flavor.
Pellet Grill Smokers
Pellet smokers work by using wood pellets as their heat source. They are known for producing a consistent, smoky flavor. They are easy to use and require minimal maintenance, but they can be more expensive than other types of smokers.
When choosing a smoker, consider your personal preferences, budget, and level of experience. No matter which type of smoker you choose, make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and follow all safety precautions.
What to Look for in a Beginner Smoker
If you’re new to smoking meat, choosing the perfect smoker can be overwhelming. There are a lot of options out there, and it can be hard to know what to look for. Here are some factors to consider when choosing your first smoker.
Budget
Smokers can range in price from less than $100 to several thousand dollars. Consider how much you’re willing to spend before you start shopping. Keep in mind that more expensive smokers often have more features, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re better for beginners.
Temperature Control
Temperature control is essential for smoking meat. Look for a smoker that allows you to easily adjust the temperature and maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. Some smokers have built-in thermometers, while others require you to purchase a separate thermometer.
Ease of Use
Smoking meat can be a time-consuming process, so you want a smoker that’s easy to use. Look for a smoker that’s easy to assemble and use, with clear instructions. Some smokers require more maintenance than others, so consider how much time you’re willing to spend cleaning and maintaining your smoker.
Build Quality
A well-built smoker will last longer and perform better than a cheaply made one. Look for a smoker made from high-quality materials, with sturdy construction. Some smokers are more durable than others, so consider how often you plan to use your smoker.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Smoking meat can be messy, so you want a smoker that’s easy to clean. Look for a smoker with removable parts that can be cleaned in the dishwasher or with a hose. Some smokers require more maintenance than others, so consider how much time you’re willing to spend cleaning and maintaining your smoker.
Portability
If you plan to take your smoker on the go, look for one that’s lightweight and easy to transport. Some smokers are designed for outdoor use only, while others can be used indoors as well. Consider where you plan to use your smoker and how often you’ll need to transport it.
By considering these factors, you can choose a smoker that’s right for you, especially if you want a portable smoker to get started on your smoking journey.
Tips for Your First Smoke
Congratulations on your decision to start smoking meat! It’s a fun and rewarding hobby that can produce delicious results. Here are a few tips to help you get started on your first smoke.
Choose the Right Smoker
it’s important to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Season Your Smoker
Before you start smoking meat, it’s important to season your smoker. This involves coating the inside of the smoker with oil and heating it up to a high temperature for several hours. Seasoning helps to remove any manufacturing residue and creates a non-stick surface that will make future cleanings easier.
Start with a Simple Recipe
For your first smoke, it’s best to start with a simple recipe. Choose a cut of meat that is forgiving, such as chicken or pork shoulder, and follow a basic recipe that includes only a few ingredients. This will help you get a feel for your smoker and build your confidence.
Monitor the Temperature
Temperature control is key when it comes to smoking meat. Invest in a good thermometer and monitor the temperature of your smoker throughout the smoking process. Keep in mind that different cuts of meat require different temperatures and cooking times, so be sure to do your research.
Be Patient
Smoking meat is a slow process that requires patience. It’s important to resist the temptation to check on your meat too often, as this can cause fluctuations in temperature and extend the cooking time. Trust the process and let your smoker do its job.
Practice Makes Perfect
Like any hobby, smoking meat takes practice to master. Don’t get discouraged if your first few smokes don’t turn out perfectly. Use each smoke as an opportunity to learn and improve your technique.
With time and practice, you’ll be producing delicious smoked meat that will impress your friends and family.
Wrapping it Up
We have rounded up the 7 best smokers for beginners for you to start your barbecue journey. This guide to the best smokers allows you to choose the best option for your needs and lifestyle.
Whether it is a charcoal, electric, propane, or pellet smoker you will be able to find one that is suitable for a beginner pitmaster.
Overall, we have selected the Masterbuilt Digital Smoker as the perfect choice for those just starting out. It has a spacious cooking area and the temperature is consistent and easy to control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a vertical smoker better than regular smoker?
Vertical smokers are ideal for beginners because they are easy to use and require minimal maintenance. They are also great for smoking large cuts of meat, such as brisket, because they have more space than regular smokers. However, regular smokers are better for smoking smaller cuts of meat, such as ribs or chicken, because they allow for more control over the temperature and smoke.
What kind of smoker gives the best smoke flavor?
The type of smoker that gives the best smoke flavor depends on personal preference. Charcoal smokers are great for giving a smoky flavor, while pellet smokers are better for a milder, more consistent smoke flavor. Electric smokers are also a good option for those who want a consistent smoke flavor without having to worry about maintaining the temperature.
Is charcoal or pellet smoker better?
Charcoal smokers are better for those who want a strong smoky flavor, while pellet smokers are better for those who want a milder, more consistent smoke flavor. Charcoal smokers require more maintenance and attention, while pellet smokers are easier to use and require less maintenance.
Why use a smoker instead of a grill?
Smokers are better than grills for smoking meat because they allow for a longer, slower cooking process that results in a more tender and flavorful meat. Grills are better for searing and cooking meat quickly at high temperatures. Smokers can also allow for more control over the temperature and smoke, resulting in a more consistent and flavorful end product.
