Best Entry Level Smoker: Top Picks for Beginners in 2024

If you're new to smoking, choosing the right smoker can be overwhelming. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this article, we'll be exploring the best entry-level smokers and what to look for when making your purchase.

Smoking is a cooking method that infuses food with a smoky flavor. It's often used for meats, fish, and vegetables, and can be done using a variety of equipment. Entry-level smokers are designed for beginners who want to try smoking without investing too much money.

When choosing an entry-level smoker, the most critical factor to consider is the type of fuel it uses. There are three primary types of smokers: electric, propane, and charcoal. Each type has its pros and cons, so it's essential to choose the one that best suits your needs.

In this article, we'll be focusing on charcoal smokers. Charcoal smokers are the most traditional type of smoker and are often favored by serious smoking enthusiasts. They're relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and produce a rich, smoky flavor that's hard to beat.

So, if you're ready to try smoking for the first time, keep reading to discover the best entry-level charcoal smokers on the market.

Best Entry Level Smokers

If you're new to smoking meat, finding the right smoker can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start. Luckily, we've done the research for you and compiled a list of the best entry level smokers on the market. Whether you're looking for an electric smoker or a charcoal smoker, we've got you covered. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best entry level smokers.

Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker

 

 

If you're looking for an entry-level smoker that is easy to use and delivers delicious smoked meats, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker is a great option.

Pros

• With 710 square inches of cooking space, this smoker has plenty of room to smoke up to 7 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 pork butts or 4 racks of ribs.
• Digital controls make it easy to set your desired smoking temperature and time, up to 275°F.
• The patented side wood chip loader allows you to add wood-fired smoked flavor without having to open the smoker door, resulting in enhanced low and slow cooked dishes.

Cons

• Some users have reported issues with the heating element burning out after a few years of use.
• The smoker can be messy to clean, especially with trapped smoking.
• The design of the smoker could be improved to make it easier to use.

If you're new to smoking or looking for an entry-level smoker, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker is a great choice. With its digital controls and patented side wood chip loader, it's easy to use and delivers great results. However, some users have reported issues with the heating element and cleaning the smoker can be messy.

Masterbuilt® 30-inch Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Analog Temperature Control, Chrome Smoking Racks and 535 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20070210 30-inch, 3 Racks Electric Smoker

 

 

If you're looking for an entry-level smoker that will give you competition-ready results without the hassle of charcoal or propane, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Analog Electric Smoker is a great option.

Pros

• Achieve competition-ready results in your own backyard with ease
• Spacious vertical design with 535 cooking square inches
• Removable wood chip tray for experimenting with different wood types

Cons

• Analog controls can make it difficult to maintain a consistent temperature
• Some users report issues with the door seal, which can cause heat loss
• Limited temperature range may not be suitable for all types of smoking

With its spacious design and removable wood chip tray, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Analog Electric Smoker is a great option for those who want to experiment with different types of smoking. However, its analog controls can make it difficult to maintain a consistent temperature, and some users report issues with the door seal, which can cause heat loss.

If you're new to smoking and looking for an entry-level option to get started with, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Analog Electric Smoker is a solid choice. However, if you're looking for more precise temperature control or a wider temperature range, you may want to consider other options.

Cuisinart COS-118, Vertical Charcoal Smoker, 18"

 

 

If you are looking for an entry-level smoker that is easy to set up and use, the Cuisinart Vertical 18" charcoal smoker is a great option.

Pros

• With two 18" stainless steel racks, this smoker provides 510 square inches of cooking space, which is enough to accommodate just about any food you're looking to smoke at home.
• The porcelain enamel water bowl helps to keep your food moist and flavorful, while the top and bottom vents provide a dual air vent system that makes it easy to maintain a consistent temperature.
• The vertically hinged door makes it easy to access the water bowl and charcoal grate, and the latching base ensures that the smoker stays securely closed while you're cooking.

Cons

• The temperature gauge on this smoker is not very accurate, so you will need to invest in a good probe thermometer if you want to get the best results.
• Some users have reported that the smoker is not very well insulated, which can make it difficult to maintain a consistent temperature in colder weather.
• The smoker is not very portable, so it may not be the best choice if you want to take it with you on camping trips or other outdoor adventures.

Overall, if you are looking for an affordable and easy-to-use smoker that can help you create delicious smoked meats and other foods at home, the Cuisinart Vertical 18" charcoal smoker is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to invest in a good thermometer and be prepared to make some adjustments to the temperature settings if you are cooking in colder weather.

Bradley Smoker BTDS76P 4-Rack Outdoor Natrual Draft Digital Vertical Smoker

 

 

If you're looking for an entry-level smoker, the Bradley Smoker BTDS76P is a great option to consider. With its digital controls and four included racks, this electric smoker is perfect for those who want to smoke delicious foods without the hassle of tending to a live fire for hours on end.

Pros

• The insulated double-wall construction makes this electric smoker 10 times more efficient than leading smokers when filled with Bradley Smokers bisquettes, meaning you can fill the box just once and still get the same amount of smoke.
• With the Bradley Smoker smokebox, you can enjoy up to 9 hours of smoke before needing to refill, which translates to more time spent with friends, family, and guests.
• The easy-to-clean stainless steel interior will not rust, making it a low-maintenance option for those who want to smoke delicious foods without spending a lot of time on cleaning.

Cons

• The cooking area measures 4 by 11 by 13 inches, which may not be large enough for some users who want to smoke larger cuts of meat.
• The smoker is electric, which means you'll need to have a power source nearby in order to use it.
• Some users have reported issues with the smoker's temperature control, which may require some adjustments to get the desired results.

Overall, if you're looking for an entry-level smoker that is easy to use and maintain, the Bradley Smoker BTDS76P is definitely worth considering. With its digital controls, efficient smoke production, and easy-to-clean interior, it's a great option for those who want to smoke delicious foods without a lot of hassle.

Cuisinart COS-244 Vertical Propane Smoker

 

 

If you're looking for an entry-level smoker that's easy to use and provides ample smoking space, the Cuisinart Vertical 36" propane smoker is a great option to consider.

Pros

• With 5.45 square feet of interior space and four removable stainless steel shelves, this smoker has plenty of room to smoke a variety of meats and vegetables.
• The built-in thermometer and total temperature and smoke control give you precise control over the cooking process.
• The seal-tight twist-lock door and handle keep the door tightly sealed, helping to maintain consistent temperatures and smoke levels.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the smoker doesn't get hot enough for certain types of cooking, such as searing or grilling.
• While the removable shelves are dishwasher safe, some users have reported that they can be difficult to clean by hand.
• The smoker requires wood chips to operate, which can add an additional expense and maintenance requirement.

If you're looking for an easy-to-use smoker that provides ample cooking space and precise temperature and smoke control, the Cuisinart Vertical 36" propane smoker is definitely worth considering. With its spacious interior, removable shelves, and built-in thermometer, this smoker makes it easy to smoke a variety of meats and vegetables to perfection. However, if you're looking for a smoker that can also sear or grill, you may want to consider a different option. Overall, the Cuisinart Vertical 36" propane smoker is a great choice for anyone looking to get started with smoking their own food at home.

Masterbuilt Slow Smoker

 

 

If you're looking for an entry-level smoker that's easy to use and produces great results, the Masterbuilt Slow Smoker is a solid choice.

Pros

• Continuous smoke when cold smoking or hot smoking up to 275˚F
• Ideal for smoking cheese, fish, bacon, and jerky
• Automatically heats wood chips with the push of a button

Cons

• Continuous wood feed system provides up to 6 hours of continuous smoke without reloading
• Removable ash tray for easy cleanup
• No temperature control or blower

The Masterbuilt Slow Smoker is a great choice for beginners who want to start smoking their own meats and cheeses. It's easy to use, with an automatic wood chip feeder that provides up to 6 hours of continuous smoke without reloading. The removable ash tray makes cleanup a breeze.

However, the Slow Smoker doesn't offer temperature control or a blower, so it's not ideal for those who want precise control over the smoking process. Additionally, the continuous wood feed system can be a bit of a hassle if you're looking to smoke for longer periods of time.

Overall, the Masterbuilt Slow Smoker is a solid entry-level smoker that's easy to use and produces great results. If you're looking for a simple way to start smoking your own meats and cheeses, this is a great choice.

Cuisinart COS-330 Vertical Electric Smoker

 

 

If you're looking for an entry-level electric smoker that is easy to use and won't break the bank, the Cuisinart COS-330 is a great option.

Pros

• With 548 square inches of interior space and three removable smoking shelves, you can easily smoke a variety of meats and vegetables for a large group of people.
• The built-in thermometer on the front door makes it easy to monitor the internal temperature and ensure your food is cooked to perfection.
• The stainless steel trays that hold the wood chips and water make clean-up a breeze.

Cons

• The temperature can be a bit finicky to start, but once you get it at the right temp, it should be good for most of your smoking session.
• The door may leak and the heating element may need to be replaced after a while.
• The electronic heater/plug may be defective, making it difficult to get the temperature above 200 degrees.

The Cuisinart COS-330 is a convenient and easy-to-use electric smoker that is perfect for casual or first-time smokers. The spacious interior and removable smoking shelves make it easy to smoke a variety of meats and vegetables for a large group of people. The built-in thermometer on the front door makes it easy to monitor the internal temperature, and the stainless steel trays that hold the wood chips and water make clean-up a breeze. While the temperature can be a bit finicky to start, once you get it at the right temp, it should be good for most of your smoking session. Overall, if you're looking for an affordable and user-friendly electric smoker, the Cuisinart COS-330 is a great choice.

Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker

 

 

If you're looking for an entry-level smoker that offers quality, performance, and durability, the Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker – DGO1890BDC-D is a great option.

Pros

• With six height-adjustable cooking grates, you get 1,890 square inches of total cooking space, which is perfect for accommodating various sizes of food.
• The porcelain-enameled steel charcoal chamber keeps briquettes stacked tightly for improved burn efficiency, while the charcoal and ash management system with charcoal chamber, grate, and sliding, removable steel ash pan is designed to handle large amounts of ash for hours of maintenance-free cooking.
• The vertical design of the smoker lends itself to naturally rising heat, achieving greater efficiency and improved smoke flavor. The offset design keeps direct heat away from the food, allowing for slow cooking.

Cons

• The smoker is quite heavy, weighing in at 83 pounds, which might make it difficult to move around.
• Some users have reported issues with the seal on the primary door, which can lead to heat and smoke loss.
• The smoker is quite large, so you'll need a decent amount of space to store it.

Overall, the Dyna-Glo Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker – DGO1890BDC-D is a great entry-level smoker that offers plenty of cooking space and versatility. If you're looking to take your grilling to the next level, this smoker is definitely worth considering.

Masterbuilt® 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Gas Vertical BBQ Smoker with Analog Temperature Control and 960 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20051316

 

 

If you're looking for an entry level smoker, the Masterbuilt 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Smoker is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The ignition button makes it easy to light the fuel with the push of a button.
• The adjustable temperature dial allows you to set your desired smoking temperature up to 375°F.
• The spacious vertical design fits up to 16 chickens, 6 turkeys, 8 pork butts, or 8 racks of ribs.

Cons

• Assembly can be time-consuming and challenging.
• Some users have reported that the wood chips burn too quickly.
• The door latch can be difficult to close tightly.

This smoker is perfect for beginners who want to try their hand at smoking meat. The ignition button and adjustable temperature dial make it easy to use, and the spacious design allows you to cook for the whole family. However, assembly can be a bit of a challenge, and some users have reported issues with the wood chips burning too quickly. Overall, this smoker is a great choice for those who are new to smoking and want to experiment with different flavors and cooking techniques.

Masterbuilt® 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Leg Kit, Side Wood Chip Loader and 970 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20070122 Digital Electric Smoker w/ Window & Legs

 

 

If you're looking for an entry-level smoker that's easy to use and delivers great results, the Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• With 970 square inches of cooking space, this smoker is big enough to handle large cuts of meat and even whole birds.
• The digital controls make it easy to set the temperature and cooking time, so you can achieve consistent results every time.
• The patented side woodchip loader allows you to add wood chips without opening the smoker door, which helps to maintain the internal temperature and smoke.

Cons

• The smoker is quite heavy, so it can be difficult to move around if you need to store it away.
• Some users have reported that the temperature probe can be inaccurate, which can lead to overcooking or undercooking your meat.
• The smoker can take a while to heat up, which may not be ideal if you're in a hurry.

If you're looking for an affordable, easy-to-use smoker that delivers great results, the Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker is definitely worth considering. With its large cooking space and digital controls, it's easy to achieve consistent, delicious results every time. However, it's important to keep in mind that this smoker can be quite heavy and may take a while to heat up, so it may not be the best option if you need something that's easy to move around or if you're in a hurry.

Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo

 

 

If you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-use smoker grill combo, the Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo is worth considering.

Pros

• Enjoy the convenience of gas with the flavor of charcoal thanks to the QuickStart Automatic Ignition feature.
• Set your desired cooking temperature on the digital control panel or via the Masterbuilt app, and the DigitalFan will maintain your desired cooking temperature for you.
• The AutoIgnite smart charcoal grill has a cook space of 545 square inches along with precision control temperature ranges from 250° - 650°F, making it perfect for low-and-slow smoking or high-heat searing.

Cons

• The charcoal hopper is small and may need to be refilled frequently.
• The auto-ignition feature can be flaky and may not work every time.
• Ash may fly around when using the grill.

The Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo is a versatile and easy-to-use grill that offers the convenience of gas with the flavor of charcoal. With its QuickStart Automatic Ignition feature, you can light your fire starter with the push of a button, eliminating the need for lighter fluid. The DigitalFan effortlessly maintains your desired cooking temperature, and you can set your desired cooking temperature on the digital control panel or via the Masterbuilt app.

With a cook space of 545 square inches and temperature ranges from 250° - 650°F, the AutoIgnite smart charcoal grill is perfect for low-and-slow smoking or high-heat searing. However, the charcoal hopper is small and may need to be refilled frequently. Additionally, the auto-ignition feature can be flaky and may not work every time. Ash may also fly around when using the grill.

Overall, the Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo is a solid option for those looking for an easy-to-use smoker grill combo with a variety of features.

Camp Chef Smoke Vault - Vertical, Propane Meat Smoker for Outdoor Cooking of Meat, Pies & More - 150°F to 350°F Range - 18"

 

 

If you're looking for a high-quality entry level smoker, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• With adjustable heat-control dials, three damper valves, and a door thermometer, this meat smoker makes it easy to control temperatures from 150°F to 350°F.
• The heavy-gauge steel wood chip tray and water pan make smoking simple and delicious, even for beginners.
• This smoker includes cooking tips, ideas, and recipes to help you get started as a master outdoor chef.

Cons

• The Camp Chef Smoke Vault is a propane smoker, so you'll need to have a propane tank on hand to use it.
• While this smoker is easy to use, it may take some time to get the hang of maintaining consistent temperatures.
• At 64 pounds, this smoker is quite heavy and may be difficult to move around if you plan to use it in different locations.

If you're looking for a simple outdoor cooking solution that allows you to make ribs, turkey, pies, and more, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault is definitely worth considering. With its high-quality construction and adjustable temperature controls, this smoker is perfect for beginners who want to get started as outdoor chefs. Plus, with cooking tips and recipes included, you'll have everything you need to get started right away.

Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker + Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker Cover Smoker + Smoker Cover, 30"

If you're looking for an entry-level smoker, the Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker is a great option to consider. With 544 square inches of cooking space, you'll have plenty of room to smoke a variety of meats. The double-wall insulated construction helps retain smoke and heat, while the dual exhaust ports allow for consistent smoke production and improved airflow.

Pros

• The Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker comes with a door-mounted temperature gauge and three chrome-plated cooking grates.
• The unit includes a grease tray, wood chip tray, and aluminized steel water pan for easy cleaning.
• The Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker Cover is made of heavy-duty polyester with a weather-resistant finish, and it fits 30-inch Char-Broil digital electric smokers like models 14202002, 14202004, and 15202043.

Cons

• The Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker has an analog temperature control, which may not be as precise as a digital control.
• Some users have reported issues with the unit's heating element, which may need to be replaced after extended use.
• The Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker Cover may not fit other brands or models of electric smokers.

Overall, the Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker is a solid entry-level option for anyone looking to get started with smoking meat. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it offers plenty of cooking space and easy-to-use features. And with the included Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker Cover, you can keep your smoker protected from the elements when not in use.

Buying Guide

When looking for an entry level smoker, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some features to look out for when making your purchase:

Type of Fuel

Smokers can be fueled by charcoal, wood, gas, or electricity. Each type of fuel has its advantages and disadvantages. Charcoal and wood smokers provide a traditional smoky flavor, but require more attention and maintenance. Gas and electric smokers are easier to use, but may not provide the same smoky flavor.

Size

Consider the amount of food you will be smoking at once and the amount of space you have available for your smoker. Entry level smokers are generally smaller in size and can accommodate up to 4-6 racks of ribs or a small brisket.

Temperature Control

Temperature control is an important feature to consider. Look for a smoker that has a built-in thermometer or temperature gauge to monitor the temperature inside the smoker. Some smokers also have vents or dampers that can be adjusted to control the temperature.

Material

The material of the smoker can affect the overall quality and durability of the product. Look for a smoker made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel or cast iron.

Price

Entry level smokers can range in price from $100 to $500. Consider your budget and the features you need when making your purchase.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best entry level smoker for your needs and start enjoying delicious smoked meats at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top recommended smokers for beginners?

When it comes to choosing the best smoker for beginners, there are a few options that come highly recommended. The Weber Smokey Mountain, the Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker, and the Masterbuilt 30-Inch Digital Electric Smoker are all great options that are easy to use and produce excellent results.

Which type of smoker is best for someone just starting out?

For someone just starting out, an electric smoker is often the best option. They are easy to use, require minimal monitoring, and produce consistent results. However, if you prefer the traditional smoky flavor, a charcoal or wood pellet smoker may be a better choice.

What are the most cost-effective smokers for new users?

If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, the Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker and the Dyna-Glo Charcoal Offset Smoker are both great choices. They are both affordable and produce delicious results.

What features should a beginner look for in a smoker?

When choosing a smoker as a beginner, look for one that is easy to use and has a simple temperature control system. You may also want to consider the size of the smoker, as well as the type of fuel it uses.

How do pellet smokers compare to other types for first-time users?

Pellet smokers are a great option for first-time users because they are easy to use and produce consistent results. They are also very versatile, allowing you to smoke, grill, and bake all in one unit.

What are some simple recipes for first-time smoker owners?

If you're new to smoking, start with simple recipes like smoked chicken, ribs, or brisket. These are all great options that are easy to prepare and will help you get the hang of using your new smoker.