11 Best Small Electric Smokers: Buyer’s Guide & Review

Electric smokers are the new trend for outdoor recreation. A simple backyard barbeque with family and friends in the summer is just bliss.

If you’re into outdoor cooking, buying an electric smoker might have crossed your mind.

Electric smokers have a lot of different styles, and it’s not impossible to find something that suits your needs and personal taste.

This post will go through some great electric smoker brands and models. They come in various shapes, sizes, and mechanisms. There is also a pellet smoker, charcoal smoker, or gas smoker. But we will be focusing exclusively on electric smokers. 

Top picks for small electric smokers.

These small devices are quite popular in the market because of the many great features mentioned above.

Many manufacturers have put out many models, and we have selected a few of them that we think are great for their prices in terms of quality, efficiency, and other benefits. Feel free to choose from the list below and read our reviews about each of them. 

1. Masterbuilt 30“ Analog Electric Smoker

Masterbuilt is a renowned brand in the food appliance industry. This model is the smallest size that they released on the market. In our personal opinion, it’s the simplest electric smoker there is. It does not have any sort of digital controls.

But the perks are already great with the 548 square inches of internal cooking space and 3 racks. This analog smoker has a 1500-watt heating element that can already cook the hard kinds of meat with no problem. Just simply plug it in, and it’s ready to go.

It’s easy to locate the temperature gauge since it’s just built into the door. It has a water bowl you can easily detach to refill for the moisture inside the machine. The tray for wood chips is also easy to remove for cleaning. This may be the simplest analog electric smoker in the market today that works exactly as intended.

2. Little Chief Small Electric Smoker

Around five decades have passed since the Little Chief brand was established and started manufacturing food smoking appliances consistently. Inside the smoker are 4 cooking grates that can carry up to 25 pounds of food with a 250-watt heating element for slow smoking smaller and softer types of meat.

It cannot effectively cook large pieces of meat, though. It has a great temperature control feature; you can also choose where to load your food and concentrate the smoke. If you like to slow cook food more than the regular smoking speed, this could work for you. 

3. Simple Char-Broil With SmartChef Technology

This digital smoker integrated with SmartChef technology allows you to control it from your smart mobile device through its app. There aren’t that many models of this kind available in the market just yet, so it’s safe to say that this is one of the first few released.

The circular compact shape and size hold 2 smoke racks and 1 cooking basket that can fit a 16-pound turkey. 

The heating element is evenly distributed throughout the smoker to ensure that your food is well-cooked.

As mentioned, there is an app with built-in technology that turns your smartphone into a remote control device for the electric smoker where you can regulate the temperature, set a timer, and also a notification system to alert you when your food is ready.

The app also allows you to choose what kind of meat you are cooking. However, one drawback is that the app does not work smoothly in Android operating systems as it does in iOS, so that’s one glitch that the manufacturer is hopefully fixing.

4. Smokin-it Small Electric Smoker

This is Model 1 of the 3 other models made by Smokin-It that vary in size. This one is the smallest out of all of them. But even with the small size, it can still carry around 22 pounds of meat distributed on 3 racks.

The entire thing is durable stainless steel with a 400-watt heating element. Another feature we love about the Smokin-It Model 1 is that it has wheels which make transporting it a whole lot easier since it’s also heavy due to its construction.

5. Meco Stainless Steel Small Electric Smoker

This is another stainless steel constructed electric smoker with simple yet great features. It’s relatively easy to use and can accommodate food for the average-sized family. It has 2 cooking racks and 351 square inches of interior cooking space. 

The smoker of this model can also do water smoking which helps in making the meat more tender and juicy. To make it more interesting, it’s not just exclusive to water. You can put any liquid in it that you think can add to the flavor of the meat you are cooking.

You can put in a lot of different kinds of food, and it would still be cooked efficiently with its 1500-watt heating element. For the heating element, you can also use wood pellets for added smoke production that helps cook the food better and faster. 

6. Masterbuilt portable electric smoker

Another masterpiece by Masterbuilt. This is one of their small models that contrasts the typically large sizes of electric smokers that they make. It is a standing smoker, but the legs can be folded, so it can also be placed on an uneven surface when used outdoors.

And since it’s basically for the outdoors, it has an analog setting which also means that you must actively monitor the status of what you’re cooking. The heating element is 1400 watts with 280 square inches of interior space.

If you buy one, it also comes with a free bag you can put in for whenever you take it on trips.

7. LANDMANN Small Electric Smoker

Inside the Landmann electric smoker is a triple-purpose tray that combines the wood chip tray, water pan, and grease pan, which is a total space saver and maximizes its 457.86 square inch cooking space that can cater to ribs and barbecues alike. 

The unit is compact and very handy to use. It also has a temperature gauge with a wide range of temperature control settings. The door has a small glass window to see the food inside. It also has a rear damper port and an adjustable stand. 

This is perfect for those who do not have enough kitchen space but would not mind cooking outdoors. The non-insulated trays are 26 inches, and the cooking grates are made of premium steel. 

8. BRADLEY SMOKER Small Electric Smoker

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The next one on the list is the model by Bradley Smoker. At first glance, you will see that it is premium looking and durable with the classic stainless steel exterior and interior.

It is also quite easy to clean. It has 4 racks inside with dimensions of 17 x 14 x 31 inches. And the other two are 24 inches wide. You have the freedom to fully control the temperature settings digitally, along with the amount of smoke emitted.

This model can cook various meat and food such as chicken and fish. You can also serve gourmet meals using this top-performing smoker with confidence that your food will have that exceptional flavor and touch.

Many people consider this brand one of the best and most high-end quality smokers, so we highly recommend you check it out.

9. ROYAL GOURMET Electric Smoker

Looking for an electric smoker with a lot of interiors? This is one of the best options in the market today. With 3 chrome-coated smoking racks and 1500-watt heating power for the heating element, this Royal Gourmet electric smoker performs well.

The smoker’s digital controls are removable and have a built-in thermometer. The latch ensures airtight sealing, so the smoke is concentrated inside the machine and adds to the double layer of the wall construction.

The handle does not heat up, so it’s safe to handle and carry. Upon buying the product, you get three years of warranty. The steel cooking grates are 16” in size with vertical barrel designs. Temperature retention and consistency are top-notch. 

10. CUISINART Small Electric Smoker

This model also received great customer feedback, so we included this in the list. It has two stainless steel cooking racks with a 16” size each, and the entirety of the interior has a 402 square inch cooking space. It also has two air vents for optimal heat and smoke regulation.

Cooking time is not that long, and it is user-friendly and great for outdoor grilling of fish, meat, chicken, and even vegetables. The vertical and cylindrical shape of the smoker also contributes to the evenness of the smoke distribution inside so that your food is cooked in all parts.

Even professional chefs have a lot of positive things to say about this particular electric smoker brand. 

11. Masterbuilt 20073716 Portable Electric Smoker

Your road trip companion is here! Escape the city life with your pals, and bring this portable electric smoker with you for an instant outdoor grilling experience!

Prepare your whole turkey and some hamburgers because you can fit them inside this small but terrible smoker with its powerful 1400-watt heating element.

What’s surprising is that it only weighs 21 pounds,s so it’s not that heavy to carry, and it can withstand whatever the weather is, whether extreme heat and humidity, strong winds, or heavy rain.

You can choose not to have the racks if you feel like it minimizes the space. The airtight seal of the door traps the heat and smoke effectively to ensure that your food is thoroughly cooked. 

Made with the primary purpose of outdoor use, it only has an analog setting and no digital controls. You have to set the temperature manually, but the temperature gauge makes monitoring easier. You can get this great little smoker at a price of below $80 only.

Yes, the price is tempting, but you also have to remember that the price is related to the features you get, so do not expect high-end features for a price like this. Nonetheless, the unit still has the basic features to do the job. 

Are you an outdoorsy person who likes to live life on the road? Look no further because the perfect electric smoker is already here for you. 

What is an electric smoker?

Commonly known as a family smoker, this small yet heavy-duty device can cater to a family with up to 6 members. Though it may not be intended for large gatherings where you will serve a big crowd, its size is just right for the average household.

These small electric smokers usually have a height of below 30” and a 500 square inch capacity for their interior, which is suitable for the household size we already mentioned.

Each model varies on the shape, number, and positioning of the cooking racks, and it will also determine the available space inside and how much food you can cook at a time. They can also be portable so you can carry them to other places.

This is why some of them come with heat-resistant handles on the side for easy carrying, and few even have wheels. Electric smokers can be small or medium in size and have different color selections. 

What makes small electric smokers special?

The great thing about these small electric smokers is that they are on-the-go devices for impromptu backyard shenanigans when people want to have that outdoor lunch vibe in the comfort of their homes.

Electric smokers are the way to go. They are handy, easy to use, and can cater just enough food for an average-sized family. It only needs to be connected to an electrical source for it to work. You can also bring them for outdoor activities like camping and beach barbeques.

You do not need a gas tank. It won’t take up a lot of space. And they’re relatively cheap to buy. They are much easier to use with similar features to a large conventional smoker. 

Some facts about electric smokers

Of course, every decision has its benefits and consequences. Buying an appliance such as an electric smoker is no exemption from that. There are some aspects that you may and may not like.

It’s always wise to be informed and have all essential knowledge to bear in mind so you can weigh your options properly and judge whether or not it is worth the purchase. 

Electric smokers resemble cabinet smokers since they have the same single front door that opens to multiple racks with the heating element below it. Other units also have glass windows so you can monitor the food inside them. It also comes with an analog or digital thermostat that Allows you to adjust the temperature. 

Advantages

• No more lighting a flame and keeping it burning; you do not need to learn how to make fire from wood.
• Electric smokers are also safe to use because of the absence of open flame.
• Stable heat distribution
• Does not consume charcoal or gasoline 

Disadvantages

• The temperature threshold is not that wide. The highest temperature it can reach is only up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Cheaper models do not have insulation or airtight doors, making the temperature unstable.
• Does not create the same amount of smoke as a charcoal smoker

Analog vs. digital temperature controllers

Analog temperature controllers allow you to adjust the temperature according to your preference manually. This means you have to monitor the rise and fall of temperature for yourself.

It has a knob that you can twist back and forth to regulate the power supplied to the heating element. The knob usually has temperature markers or just low, medium, and high settings.

Digital controllers, on the other hand, have built-in sensors that monitor the actual temperature and compare it to the temperature set. It checks whether or not both coincide and if not, it automatically adjusts the temperature in the power supply to the heating element. Smokers with digital controllers cost more than analogs. 

A guide to buying small electric smokers

Total Capacity

Small electric smokers are small for a reason. You have to bear in mind that it won’t be able to accommodate large amounts of food at one time. So if you usually serve a large number of people, then this won’t do the job for you.

Also, all those features won’t matter if the capacity of your smoker is less than the usual amount. It all boils down to how much food your smoker can cater at one time.

Capacity should be your utmost priority in choosing a good electric smoker because you will be using it to serve food to others, and it must be able to handle a decent amount at one go, so you won’t be using it for a long time since it also consumes electricity.

Usability

These electric smokers are popular among consumers because they are also easy to use. You do not need any technical knowledge to be able to learn how to operate it.

Generally, the typical electric smokers sold in the market today are user-friendly. So this should also be something you have to check if you can easily operate.

You have to consider the temperature controls if it has a temperature gauge, windows you can look through to monitor the food, and other features that make it an easier process. More advanced features like connectivity to smart devices, Bluetooth, or WiFi are a bonus. 

Temperature Range

It is always a great feature for electric smokers with a wide temperature range. The optimal range should be 100 to 400 degrees, so you have a bigger chance of being able to cook a variety of food at varying temperatures. It’s even better if it can reach up to 500 degrees.

Aside from that, you also have to consider the ease of controlling the temperature, the heating element, and the smoke. You have to gain control of these somehow to cook the food properly. Timers are also a bonus. Electric smokers with digital controls are available, making controlling the settings easier. 

Portability

The one edge of electric smokers on this site is that you can bring it anywhere easily. Their size and weight make them very portable and perfect for outdoor use. If you have an electrical source, you can power this device and have an instant griller and food smoker wherever you may be.

Apart from portability, keep in mind its durability because it should not be very fragile, especially if you move it around a lot. And don’t forget that its power cable should also be at a decent length for you to be able to plug it into a quite distant outlet. 

Maintenance

Some electric smokers are difficult to clean and maintain. It helps if the cooking grids, trays, and racks are easily removable so that you can clean them separately. In case of breakages, you also have to ensure that it is easy to find replaceable components.

The essential parts that may be prone to damage should be readily available so you won’t experience any difficulty in finding a replacement. Lifespan is a very important factor to consider for electric smokers. 

Remote Control

It is very convenient if your electric smoker has a feature that lets you control and monitors it from a distance. There are already models available in the market today with such features.

You do not need to keep an eye on it all the time. You can simply adjust settings and check temperatures and food conditions from afar.

Some remote controls grant you the convenience of checking the temperature of the meat itself, and you can also view from the remote control how the cooking is going. This allows you to multitask since you can safely leave the smoker unattended and just monitor the status from a distance. 

Shelving

Shelves are usually made of chromed or stainless steel and often porcelain. Versatile shelving gives you more freedom to arrange the food you need inside.

In case when you need to put in more than one kind of food and they’re all varying in size, you need to have the liberty to arrange them in your way. If you rearrange the shelves, you can decide where to put the different foods. 

Chip Tray

The chip tray determines how many wood chips you can put, how you place them, and how fast it runs out. For every 45 minutes to 1 hour, you need to refill the tray with fresh wood chips to produce smoke consistently and maintain the temperature. This is important to ensure that the food is cooked well. 

Installed Caveats

Caveats are like vents or small openings in the heating chamber of the electric smoker that allows the exchange of smoke, heat, and air. Regulation of these elements is important to stabilize the smoker’s temperature inside.

It helps ensure that the food is not burnt with too much heat and smoke and is not undercooked if there isn’t enough. Proper regulation produces perfectly smoked food.  

Benefits of a small electric smoker

Portability is the edge of small electric smokers. Who doesn’t love a cooking machine that you can carry around on trips and use on the go? Some smokers also have wheels so you can pull them around like luggage.

Also, it does not take a lot of time to cook food because it uses electricity, and the smoke is concentrated inside the small space of the smoker, so more heat is produced, there the food fasts, er and saving up a lot of time and energy as well. 

How do electric smokers work?

It is interesting to know how these electric smokers work, considering they simultaneously use electrical energy and wood chips. So how do these two elements coordinate together?

Turns out, the process is not that complicated. The electricity powers the heating element. And instead of controlling the oxygen flow, the rate of electrical current is the one that is controlled. Imagine your love,n, but smoke cooks the food inside instead of the usual here. 

Take, for example, this Masterbuilt 40-inch Smoker setup. You can see that the heating element is situated just below the wood chip tray and the water tray is just by the side.  

Because of the built-in rheostat, cheaper electric smokers only give you less control range like low, medium, and high settings.

However, the more expensive and advanced models give you more features and allow you more control over temperature from the thermostat that is connected to the temperature regulator inside the smoker itself. It’s much easier to achieve desired results if you have more freedom over temperature control. 

Pellet Grills

Pellet grills also run on electricity, but they are intended more for grilling, hence the name. They are not recommended for smoking, so they fall under a different category.

Which is a better choice for smoking – electric or propane?

You already know about the advantages and disadvantages of electric smokers. But now, let’s differentiate between gas and electric smokers to give you further knowledge about your available options. 

First, let’s look at the things they have in common:

• Does the job without constant monitoring
• No need to start and keep the fire burning
• Produces smoke with wood chips

But you must remember that gas smokers produce an open flame to burn the wood chips and create smoke. This cooking method allows the heat and smoke to seep through the meat and enhances its flavor and tenderness.

On the other hand, electric smokers use a heating element without an open flame. While this may not work for professional cooks, this is already a great option for those who want a convenient and hassle-free smoking experience.

There is no risk of running out of gas and disrupting the cooking session with electric smokers because the power supply remains consistent. And they’re cheaper in overall costs than gas smokers. 

Maximizing the use of your electric smoker

Ready to use your new electric smoker? We bet you’re excited to get it up, run, and start making those tasty meals. But before anything else, let us share tips on making the most of your new cooking companion.

• Season your electric smoker before putting any food inside. We also have a guide on how to season your electric smoker. 
• A dual probe thermometer setup would be a great addition to your electric smoker, even if it already comes with a thermostat. The temperature distribution is not even throughout the appliance’s interior, so it would serve you well if you could monitor the temperature in the area where the meat is placed. These smoker thermometers may work well for you. 
• Like you do with an oven, you have to preheat the smoker before putting in the food you want to cook. 
• If you’re still starting to try your new smoker, we advise giving it a try with a couple of pork butt slices first. This does not take much time and effort to cook and won’t be too much of a problem if you run into some glitches initially. 
• Clean up after use always. Remove the racks and trays and wash them separately or spray with designated oven cleaners. 

Above all that, practice makes perfect. The more times you try it out, the more you learn about it and become better at operating it. We suggest trying different kinds of meat and other smoked recipes. Have fun with it. 

FAQs

Conclusion

We hope this post has given you enough insight and information about small electric smokers. We aim to provide relevant and accurate product reviews to help our readers make informed decisions regarding their future purchases.

Rest assured that the products we listed above are high quality and reasonably priced. Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions. 

Last update on 2023-05-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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