Smoking food is a time-honored tradition that can add a rich, smoky flavor to meats, fish, and vegetables. If you're new to smoking, it can be a daunting task to choose the right smoker for your needs. The good news is that there are many options available, and with a little research, you can find the best smoker for beginners.
When it comes to smokers, there are two main types: electric and charcoal. Electric smokers are easy to use and require minimal monitoring, making them a great choice for beginners. Charcoal smokers, on the other hand, require more skill and attention, but can produce a deeper, more authentic smoky flavor.
When choosing a smoker, it's important to consider factors such as size, ease of use, and temperature control. You'll also want to think about the types of food you'll be smoking and how often you'll be using the smoker.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the best smokers for beginners, including both electric and charcoal options. We'll also provide tips on what to look for when making your purchase, so you can find the perfect smoker for your needs.
Best Smokers for Beginners
If you're new to smoking meat, choosing the right smoker can be overwhelming. With so many options on the market, it's hard to know where to start. That's why we've compiled a list of the best smokers for beginners. Whether you're looking for an electric smoker or a charcoal smoker, we've got you covered. These smokers are easy to use and produce delicious, smoky flavor that will make you feel like a pro. Check out our top picks below.
Realcook Vertical 17 Inch Steel Charcoal Smoker
If you're new to smoking, the Realcook Vertical 17 Inch Steel Charcoal Smoker is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The build-in thermometer and adjustable air supply make temperature control easy.
- With 453 square inches of cooking space and 4 hangers inside the lid, you can smoke different sizes and shapes of meat.
- It's a multi-functional smoker that can be used for cold or hot smoking, as well as grilling, steaming, baking, braising, and roasting.
Cons
- Assembly can take up to 2 hours and the instructions could be better.
- The metal seems flimsy and there's only one vent to adjust.
- The latch locking system could be more stable.
This smoker is a good choice for beginners who want to try their hand at smoking without breaking the bank. It offers a decent amount of cooking space and is versatile enough to be used for different cooking methods. However, assembly can be a bit of a challenge and the quality of the metal could be better. Overall, if you're looking for an affordable smoker to get started with, the Realcook Vertical 17 Inch Steel Charcoal Smoker is worth considering.
Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker
If you're a beginner looking for a smoker that's easy to use and produces great results, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The digital controls make it easy to set and maintain your desired cooking temperature and time.
- The patented side wood chip loader lets you add wood chips without opening the door, which helps to keep the heat and smoke inside the smoker.
- The removable water bowl allows you to add moisture to your meats, resulting in juicy and tender results.
Cons
- The smoker may not get hot enough for some users, with a maximum temperature of 275°F.
- Some users have reported issues with the heating element burning out after a few years of use.
- The smoker can be difficult to clean, with some users finding the grease tray hard to remove.
If you're new to smoking and want a hassle-free experience, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker is a great choice. With the ability to set your desired temperature and time, and the convenience of the side wood chip loader and removable water bowl, you'll be able to achieve great results with minimal effort.
The spacious vertical design and four chrome-coated smoking racks provide plenty of room to smoke up to 6 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 racks of ribs, or 4 pork butts, making it a great choice for families or entertaining guests.
While some users have reported issues with the heating element burning out after a few years of use, the majority of users are satisfied with the performance of the smoker and find it to be a great value for the price.
Overall, if you're looking for a beginner-friendly electric smoker that's easy to use and produces great results, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker is definitely worth considering.
Smoking Meat 101: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide
If you're new to smoking meat, Smoking Meat 101: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide is a great resource to have on hand.
Pros
- Detailed explanations and instructions for beginners
- Includes a variety of recipes for different meats and vegetables
- Provides helpful tips and advice for smoking
Cons
- Some recipes may not be useful for all readers
- May not provide enough information for experienced smokers
- Only available in English
This book is a great starting point for anyone who wants to learn how to smoke meat. With detailed instructions and a variety of recipes, it's a valuable resource for beginners. However, more experienced smokers may find that it doesn't provide enough information for their needs.
The book covers everything from choosing the right smoker to preparing and smoking different types of meat. It also includes helpful tips and advice for achieving the best results. The recipes are easy to follow and cover a range of meats and vegetables, making it easy to try new things.
Overall, if you're a beginner looking to learn more about smoking meat, Smoking Meat 101: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide is definitely worth checking out.
Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo
If you're in the market for a beginner-friendly smoker that offers the convenience of gas with the flavor of charcoal, the Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo is a great option.
Pros
- QuickStart Automatic Ignition for easy lighting
- Digital control panel and Masterbuilt app for temperature control
- MiniHopper holds up to 5 lbs of lump charcoal or 7 lbs of briquettes for up to 8 hours of use
Cons
- Charcoal hopper is small and needs to be refilled frequently
- Auto ignition can be unreliable at times
- Ash can fly around during use
The Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo is a versatile barbecue grill that offers precision temperature control ranging from 250° - 650°F. The QuickStart Automatic Ignition feature makes lighting the grill a breeze, while the DigitalFan seamlessly maintains your desired cooking temperature. The QuickSear cast iron hopper sear plate also allows for easy searing of foods.
While the internal charcoal MiniHopper holds up to 5 lbs of lump charcoal or 7 lbs of briquettes for up to 8 hours of use, it may need to be refilled frequently. Additionally, the auto ignition can be unreliable at times, and ash can fly around during use.
Overall, if you're looking for a beginner-friendly smoker that offers the convenience of gas with the flavor of charcoal, the Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo is definitely worth considering.
Char-Broil Bullet Charcoal Smoker 20" - 18202076, Black 20" Bullet Smoker
If you're a beginner looking for a reliable and affordable smoker, the Char-Broil Bullet Charcoal Smoker is a great option.
Pros
- With 570 square inches of cooking space, you can smoke a variety of meats and vegetables at once.
- The porcelain-coated steel lid, body, and fire bowl make this smoker durable and easy to clean.
- The innovative air control system simplifies setting and maintaining cook temperatures, giving you more control over your smoking experience.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the dampener control for the bottom slider.
- The lid-mounted temperature gauge may not be as accurate as some users would like.
- While the smoker is mobile with dual-carry handles, it may be too heavy for some users to move around easily.
The Char-Broil Bullet Charcoal Smoker is a great option for beginners who want a reliable and affordable smoker. With its large cooking space, durable steel construction, and innovative air control system, you can smoke a variety of meats and vegetables with ease. However, some users have reported issues with the dampener control and temperature gauge, and the smoker may be too heavy for some users to move around easily. Overall, if you're looking for a solid beginner smoker, the Char-Broil Bullet Charcoal Smoker is worth considering.
TNSTBIEE Old Fashioned Smoker Kit
If you're looking for a unique and easy way to add smoky flavor to your cocktails, whiskey, bourbon, wine, or cheese, the TNSTBIEE Old Fashioned Smoker Kit is a great option.
Pros
- The kit includes everything you need to get started, including a cocktail smoker, cleaning brush, stainless steel strainers, and four boxes of different wood chips.
- The cocktail smoker is handmade by skilled artisans and made of 100% oak, which gives it a unique and authentic feel.
- The kit is packaged in a well-designed gift box, making it a great option for a special occasion or as a gift for a friend or loved one.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the packaging could be improved, as the contents are not well-organized and the wood chips may not have a strong smell.
- Lighting the wood chips can be a bit tricky, and some users have had trouble getting them to ignite properly.
- The smoker may not fit all types of glasses, so you may need to experiment a bit to find the right fit.
Overall, if you're looking for a fun and easy way to add smoky flavor to your drinks, the TNSTBIEE Old Fashioned Smoker Kit is definitely worth considering. With its high-quality construction, easy-to-use design, and included accessories, it's a great choice for beginners and experienced cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Homia Smoking Gun Wood Smoke Infuser - Extended Kit
If you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-use smoking gun, the Homia Smoking Gun Wood Smoke Infuser - Extended Kit is a solid choice.
Pros
- Complete smoking set with everything you need to start smoking food and drinks
- Easy one-button use with two smoking speeds
- Multi-use and makes a great gift
Cons
- Some pieces made of cheap plastic
- Wood chip containers are not very big
- Not visually impressive
This smoking gun set comes with everything you need to start smoking food and drinks, making it a complete and convenient option for beginners. The easy one-button use with two smoking speeds allows for heavy and moderate smoking, while the chips of fast ignition generate intense cold smoke that is easily absorbed into food and drinks for that tender smokey flavor. The smoking gun is also portable and convenient, making it easy to use wherever you go.
In addition to its smoking capabilities, this smoking gun is also multi-use and can add a delicious smoky flavor to grilled or sous vide meat, veggies, cheese, cocktails, pasta, or salmon. It even comes with smoking recipes to get you started. Plus, with its extended 1-year warranty and customer support, you can feel confident in your purchase.
However, some pieces of the smoking gun set are made of cheap plastic, and the wood chip containers are not very big. Additionally, the visual presentation of the product may not meet your expectations. Despite these drawbacks, the Homia Smoking Gun Wood Smoke Infuser - Extended Kit is a solid choice for beginners looking to try smoking their food and drinks.
Gekufa Grill Heating Element and Electric Smoker
If you're looking for an affordable and versatile smoker heating element, the Gekufa Grill Heating Element and Electric Smoker is a great option for beginners.
Pros
- Compatible with a wide range of smokers and grills on the market
- Adjustable thermostat cord controller with an "ear" shape design for better heating
- Made of high-quality stainless steel for durability
Cons
- Some users reported issues with the heat controller not properly controlling the element
- May require drilling holes for mounting threads
- One user experienced the heating element stopping after 5 minutes of use
This electric smoker heating element is perfect for those who want to add a smoky flavor to their food without the hassle of charcoal or wood chips. It has an adjustable temperature range of 50F-500F, making it suitable for a wide range of smoking and grilling applications.
The Gekufa Grill Heating Element and Electric Smoker is easy to install and compatible with a variety of smokers and grills, including Master-built models. Its "ear" shape design ensures better heating during use, and the surrounding heating wire layout makes the wood chips burn more fully for a mouth-watering flavor.
Made of high-quality stainless steel, this heating element is durable and strong, with adjustable mounting brackets and element support feet. It also comes with a 70" heavy-duty flexible controller power cord for added safety during use.
Overall, if you're looking for an affordable and versatile smoker heating element, the Gekufa Grill Heating Element and Electric Smoker is a solid choice for beginners.
Masterbuilt Smoker Cookbook for Beginners
If you're a beginner looking to get into smoking, the Masterbuilt Smoker Cookbook for Beginners might be worth considering.
Pros
- Provides 1000 easy and mouthwatering recipes for the Masterbuilt electric smoker.
- Suitable for the whole family.
- Offers a range of recipes to help you get started with smoking.
Cons
- Some reviewers noted that the book only contains 103 recipes, not the 1000 advertised.
- A few everyday items are not included in the recipes.
- No real-world experience with the product.
The Masterbuilt Smoker Cookbook for Beginners is a great resource for those who are new to smoking. The book offers a wide range of recipes that are easy to follow and suitable for the whole family. With 1000 recipes to choose from, you'll have plenty of options to get started with smoking.
While the book is a great resource, some reviewers noted that it only contains 103 recipes, not the 1000 advertised. Additionally, a few everyday items are not included in the recipes. It's important to keep in mind that this review is based solely on the product specifications and not on any real-world experience with the product.
Overall, if you're looking for a beginner-friendly cookbook for your Masterbuilt electric smoker, the Masterbuilt Smoker Cookbook for Beginners is worth considering.
Cuisinart COS-116 Vertical Charcoal Smoker
If you're a beginner looking for an affordable and easy-to-use smoker, the Cuisinart COS-116 Vertical Charcoal Smoker is a decent choice.
Pros
- Two 16" stainless steel racks provide ample cooking space for a beginner.
- The porcelain enamel water bowl helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- The top and bottom vents provide a dual air vent system that allows for precise temperature control.
Cons
- The latching base can be difficult to secure and may require some effort to close.
- The vertically hinged door can be a bit flimsy and may not seal tightly, leading to heat loss.
- The built-in temperature gauge is unreliable and may require a separate thermometer for accurate readings.
If you're willing to overlook its flaws, the Cuisinart COS-116 Vertical Charcoal Smoker can be a great starter smoker for those who are new to smoking. It's easy to assemble, and its compact size makes it perfect for small outdoor spaces.
One thing to note is that the smoker can be a bit finicky to use, especially when it comes to maintaining a consistent temperature. However, with some practice and patience, you should be able to get the hang of it.
Overall, if you're looking for an affordable and beginner-friendly smoker, the Cuisinart COS-116 Vertical Charcoal Smoker is worth considering. Just be prepared to work around its limitations and invest in some additional accessories, such as a reliable thermometer.
Weber 14.5-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker, Charcoal Smoker
If you're a beginner looking for a reliable and easy-to-use smoker, the Weber 14.5-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker is a great choice. With its two cooking grates and adjustable dampers, you can smoke multiple items at once and easily control the heat for a delicious feast.
Pros
- The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is easy to assemble, with instructions available in the user guide attachment.
- The smoker reaches an approximate temperature of 190°F inside, making it easy to smoke your favorite meats and vegetables to perfection.
- The 3D interactive assembly instructions available through the free BILT app make setting up the smoker a breeze.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the smoker can be difficult to clean, especially after extended use.
- The 14.5-inch size may be too small for some users who want to smoke larger items, such as full-sized turkeys or briskets.
- While the smoker is made of durable materials, some users have reported that the paint can chip or peel over time.
If you're looking for a beginner-friendly smoker that's easy to use and produces delicious results, the Weber 14.5-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker is a great choice. Its compact size and adjustable dampers make it easy to smoke multiple items at once, and the 3D interactive assembly instructions make setup a breeze. However, some users have reported that the smoker can be difficult to clean and that the 14.5-inch size may be too small for some users. Overall, the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is a reliable and easy-to-use smoker that's perfect for beginners.
Masterbuilt® 30-inch Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker
If you're a beginner looking for an electric smoker with analog controls, the Masterbuilt® 30-inch Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker is a great option.
Pros
- Set your desired smoking temperature using the analog dial for a seamless smoking experience up to temperatures of 275°F.
- The spacious vertical design has 535 cooking square inches that fit up to 3 chickens, 2 turkeys, or 3 racks of ribs.
- Add rich smoky flavor to your food and experiment with different wood chip types with the removable wood chip tray.
Cons
- The removable water bowl allows for optimal moisture, resulting in juicy and tender meats, but it may need frequent refilling.
- The smoker comes with three chrome-coated smoking racks, but you may need to purchase additional racks if you want to smoke more food at once.
- The analog controls may not be as precise as digital controls, but they are still easy to use and provide consistent results.
If you're looking for an easy-to-use electric smoker that delivers great results, the Masterbuilt® 30-inch Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker is a great choice. With its spacious design, removable wood chip tray, and analog controls, this smoker is perfect for beginners who want to experiment with smoking different types of food. Just keep in mind that you may need to refill the water bowl frequently and purchase additional racks if you want to smoke more food at once.
Traeger Smoker Grill Cookbook for Beginners
If you're a beginner looking for the perfect cookbook to help you get started with your Traeger smoker grill, the Traeger Smoker Grill Cookbook for Beginners is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Contains 2000-day gorgeous Traeger grill and smoker recipes suitable for all users.
- Easy-to-follow and beginner-friendly recipes.
- Provides foundational knowledge on Traeger grills.
Cons
- Some readers were expecting more beginner-focused content.
- The cookbook is only available in paperback.
- The book doesn't include many pictures.
This cookbook is packed with 2000-day gorgeous Traeger grill and smoker recipes that are perfect for all users. The recipes are easy to follow and beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for those just starting with their Traeger smoker grill.
The cookbook also provides foundational knowledge on Traeger grills, including tips on setup, maintenance, and the basics of grilling and smoking. This knowledge will help beginners get started with their grill and smoker and understand the basics of grilling and smoking.
While some readers were expecting more beginner-focused content, the cookbook is still an excellent resource for those looking to expand their Traeger smoker grill skills. The book is only available in paperback, which may be a drawback for some readers. Additionally, the book doesn't include many pictures, which may make it less appealing to some readers.
Overall, the Traeger Smoker Grill Cookbook for Beginners is an excellent resource for those looking to get started with their Traeger smoker grill. With easy-to-follow recipes and foundational knowledge on Traeger grills, this cookbook is a must-have for any beginner.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best smoker for beginners, there are a few key features that you should consider before making your purchase. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Type of Smoker
The first thing to consider is the type of smoker that you want. There are several different types of smokers available, including charcoal, electric, gas, and pellet smokers. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.
Size
The size of the smoker is another important factor to consider. You'll want to choose a smoker that is large enough to accommodate the amount of food you plan to smoke, but not so large that it takes up too much space in your backyard or on your patio.
Temperature Control
Temperature control is crucial when it comes to smoking meat. Look for a smoker that allows you to easily adjust the temperature and maintain a consistent heat level throughout the smoking process.
Ease of Use
As a beginner, you'll want a smoker that is easy to use and operate. Look for a smoker that has simple controls and is easy to clean. You'll also want to consider the amount of time it takes to set up and start smoking.
Price
Finally, price is always an important factor to consider. While you don't want to break the bank, it's important to invest in a quality smoker that will last for years to come. Look for a smoker that fits within your budget but also meets your needs in terms of size, temperature control, and ease of use.
By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be able to choose the best smoker for beginners that meets your needs and helps you achieve delicious, perfectly smoked meat every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a beginner look for when choosing their first smoker?
When choosing your first smoker, it's important to consider factors such as size, fuel type, and ease of use. Look for a smoker that is large enough to accommodate the amount of food you plan to smoke, and that uses a fuel type that you are comfortable with. Additionally, consider the overall build quality and durability of the smoker, as well as any additional features that may be important to you.
Which type of smoker is recommended for someone new to smoking meats?
For beginners, we recommend starting with a basic charcoal or propane smoker. These types of smokers are generally easy to use and provide good results without requiring a lot of experience or expertise. Electric smokers can also be a good option for beginners, as they are easy to operate and require minimal supervision.
What are the advantages of electric smokers for beginners?
Electric smokers are a great option for beginners because they are easy to use and require minimal supervision. They also provide consistent heat and smoke, which can help ensure that your food turns out perfectly every time. Additionally, electric smokers are generally more affordable than other types of smokers, making them a great option for those on a budget.
How do pellet smokers compare to wood smokers for novice users?
Pellet smokers are a great option for novice users because they provide consistent heat and smoke, which can help ensure that your food turns out perfectly every time. Additionally, pellet smokers are generally easy to use and require minimal supervision. However, they can be more expensive than other types of smokers, and may require more maintenance and cleaning.
What are some budget-friendly smokers that are great for beginners?
Some great budget-friendly smokers for beginners include basic charcoal or propane smokers, as well as electric smokers. These types of smokers are generally easy to use and provide good results without requiring a lot of experience or expertise. Additionally, they are generally more affordable than other types of smokers, making them a great option for those on a budget.
What essential features should a beginner's smoker have for the best experience?
When choosing a smoker for beginners, look for features such as adjustable vents, a built-in thermometer, and a removable ash pan. These features can help ensure that you have the best possible smoking experience, and can help you achieve consistent results every time you smoke. Additionally, look for a smoker that is easy to clean and maintain, as this can help ensure that it lasts for years to come.
