Best Electric Smokers under $300 – Inexpensive but Effective

Electric smoker helps you to make professionally done barbecued food with no effort whatsoever. It lets you have the precision and convenience of an electric appliance while still allowing you to lace it up with the smoke flavor of your choice.

When meat gets so infused with your choice of smoky flavor, it results in authentic grilled fare.

Anyway, there are numerous electric smokers on the market today, however, it doesn’t mean all of these smokers are highly rated. We have done some research to find the best electric smokers under $300 in 2022. Once you have one of these smokers, it should be easier to find the top options.

At a Glance: Top Electric Smokers under $300 of 2022

Here are the best electric smokers that you can find if you are strapped to a budget.

PRODUCT	COOKING SPACE	TEMP RANGE	RATINGS
Masterbuilt Digital Smoker (Editor's Choice)	709-sq inch	upto 275°F	4.7
Char-Broil Digital Smoker (Best Overall)	725-sq inch	upto 275°F	4.6
Dyna-Glo 30" Digital Smoker (Budget Friendly)	732-sq inch	upto 275°F	4.5
Bradley Smoker BS611 (Best for Large Family)	780-sq inch	upto 300°F	4.4
Landmann Smoky Mountain 26" (Best Entry Level)	431-sq inch	upto 260°F	4.5

Editor’s Choice: Masterbuilt MB20073519 Digital Electric Smoker

• Power Output: 750-watts
• Cooking Space: 709-square inches
• Dimensions: 19.3 x 18.3 x 34.8 inches
• Temperature: Up to 275-degrees Fahrenheit

Masterbuilt is one of the leading brands on the market when it comes to smoking and grilling. With minimal effort, you can attain competition-ready results with the Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker.

This is one of the top options with a full aluminum design and chrome plate panels. These panels can withstand the heat and reduce the risk of paint flaking off the sides of the unit.

The unit features solid construction, but the internal capacity is what many people might be looking for. At around 709-square inches of cooking space, it is safe to say that you can smoke multiple meals at the same time. This smoker can accommodate 2 whole turkeys, 4 pork butts, 3 rack of ribs or 4 chickens easily.

With a solid Bluetooth operated control panel, it is much easier for users to control the temperature and set specific times for cooking meals, even turn the smoker ON and OFF with your smart device.

This 30 inch electric digital smoker comes with a top-mounted temperature control with a temperature range of 100 degrees F to 275 degrees F.

The side-loading feature is ideal for wood chips and it can be used without having to lose heat and opening the front door. A drip pan is located internally and below the meals, you will be cooking. The drip pan will allow the unit to capture all of the fats and sauces. The feature ensures that you simply need to wipe the unit to keep it clean.

Numerous small features come together to make this one of the best electric smokers on the market today. It allows you to comfortably adjust the system for your own needs and looks great as well.

The limited 90-day warranty will give you peace of mind when you are actively using the unit to make sure that it is working as intended.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Best Overall: Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker

• Power Output: 750-watts
• Cooking Space: 725-square inches
• Dimensions: 16.54 x 32.52 x 18.11 inches
• Temperature: Up to 275-degrees Fahrenheit

The Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker is slightly larger than most of the other smokers in this lineup. It features a durable design and the internal components have been made with wired steel.

With a large cooking area of 725-square inches, it is one of the largest options on the market today. This electric smoker comes with four racks, and each of those racks can handle up to 10 pounds of meat. The grill can hold up to 8 ribs or around 4 large briskets. Keep in mind that the number will vary depending on the size of the foods.

It features a large smoker box, which allows you to add wood chips as you might need them. This larger capacity will allow you to smoke between four to seven hours before refilling is needed.

As for the smoker, it can hold temperatures of up to 275-degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature will remain in the window for as long as you might need it. The unit includes an electrical panel for tracking and monitoring the foods. However, the remote control will enable you to remotely operate the unit if that’s needed.

This smoker’s water pan is large enough to keep the meat moist. Although the water pan can be removed, it should always remain in place when using the grill (even if there is no water inside).

From safety point of view, there is a built-in safety mechanism that shuts down the smoker if it runs for longer than 19 hours without interruption.

The limited 1-year warranty will give you peace of mind. Additionally, it will ensure that you can test the unit with all the parts protected.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Budget Friendly: Dyna-Glo 30″ Digital Electric Smoker

• Power Output: 800-watts
• Cooking Space: 505-square inches
• Dimensions: 19.4 x 19 x 32.5 inches
• Temperature: Up to 275-degrees Fahrenheit

Dyna-Glo is another top-of-the-line brand and if you are looking for an inexpensive smoker, then nothing can be better than this.

The Dyna-Glo 30″ Digital Electric Smoker is powered by a 800-watt system that helps generate ample cooking power even in colder climates. According to the manufacturer, the unit has a maximum heat output of around 275-degrees, which can also be held sufficiently.

One of the main features you will cherish is the large size of the unit at an affordable price range. This smoker has a cooking capacity of around 505-square inches, which should be enough for you to cook almost five briskets simultaneously. The Digital display system enables the user to effectively monitor the temperature and it will help you set the desired temperatures.

The design is one of the most striking features and the main reason we have selected it. The firebox is securely insulated and will ensure that you have a lot of heat. Since it features double-walled aluminum for the construction of these walls, the heat retention is high and will cook food evenly.

With the design, you don’t need to worry about opening the panels each time you want to add some wood. The unit includes a side feature that will allow you to add the wood without opening the door. Additionally, it has an integrated thermometer, which enables you to constantly keep track of the temperature of the meats.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Best for Large Family: Bradley Smoker BS611 Electric Smoker

• Power Output: 1000-watts
• Cooking Space: 780-square inches
• Dimensions: 34 x 20 x 18 inches
• Temperature: Up to 300-degrees Fahrenheit

If these smaller smokers didn’t impress you, you might want to consider one of the high-caliber smoker on the market today.

Whether you want to prepare your own smoked salmon, Boston butt, chicken, lamb, or vegetables you’ll find the Bradley smoker BS611 is a worthy piece of hardware, at 55 lbs the unit isn’t too difficult to move around and you can put a fair amount of food inside it – as it stands at 34 inches high and is 20 inches wide.

This BS611 smoker is made from aluminum and features a powder coating to ensure durability and make it weatherproof.

As for the cooking space, it’s around 780-square inches, which makes it one of the largest smokers on this roundup. Space is divided into 4 different racks and these racks are designed to each hold up to one brisket. However, there are numerous different setups you can try to ensure you maximize the amount of available space.

The unit features an electrical control pad, which makes it much easier for you to operate the panels and cook the meats to the perfect temperature. Fortunately, the internal trays are made from stainless steel and the stainless steel is perfect for cleaning once you are done, the additional drip pan will ensure that the is not much to clean up.

Thankfully, you don’t need to be on hand to add wood bisquettes to the smoker; as you can add 9 hours of Bradley flavored bisquettes to the tube that leads to their drive guide, and let the smoker automatically loads the bisquettes on as needed.

Overall, the Bradley Smoker BS611 is one of the most powerful smoker as it boasts a power output of around 1000-watts. The design is elegant and even though it is a little heavy unit, the additional weight is made up for in features. If you’re looking for a heavy-duty option, this is it.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

Best Entry Level: Landmann Smoky Mountain 26″ Electric Smoker

• Power Output: 1500-watts
• Cooking Space: 431-square inches
• Dimensions: 26.7 x 16.6 x 13.2 inches
• Temperature: 100-260 degrees Fahrenheit

We all have a tight budget now and then, even so, this doesn’t mean that you should not have access to the best electric smoker. The Landmann Smoky Mountain 26″ Electric Smoker is one of the affordable unit you can come across. It features a state-of-the-art design and the aluminum has been powder coated to make it more durable.

Internally, it is versatile, with a 3-in-1 grid design. The grid design means you can set up the unit in any way or form that you feel is needed. The internal drip pan should be sufficient to ensure you can clean the unit efficiently and you don’t need to haggle with lots of chemicals. It features an internal cooking capacity of 431 square inches, which should be more than enough for most individuals.

As for the temperature, it can only reach 260-degrees Fahrenheit at the maximum. However, the temperature should still be more than enough to ensure your meals are sufficiently cooked as intended. At 1500-watts, it is one of the best options if you are looking for decent power and should ensure that you have heat retention.

As for the price, the Landmann Smoky Mountain 26 Electric Smoker is considered the budget option on the list and due to the features, you will also notice that it is more affordable. However, it is lightweight compared to many of the others, which makes it a great option for camping. We would recommend it to entry-level meat smokers and for a small family.

What we like:

What we don’t like:

How to Choose the Best Electric Smoker?

With all the top smokers now firmly in your mind, you might wonder how we went about selecting them. Fortunately, we have designed a buyer’s guide that will reveal all the information and insight you might need. If you are looking for the best electric smokers, the following guide will help you find them and start cooking the most tender of meats.

Smoker Types

One of the first things you will need to consider is the type of smoker you will be using. While many of these are only smokers, manufacturers have now designed a grill and smoker combo. These options are slightly more expensive, but they offer you some form of versatility. The versatility enables you to grill meats while smoking them.

Related: Top 5 Best Cold Smoke Generators of 2022

Temperature Ranges

Smoking meats can take a significant amount of time. While it is always worth the wait in the end, many people do not like to wait for their smokers. Most normal smokers have a cooking range of 200-275 degrees Fahrenheit. However, you will notice some that can go up to 400-degrees Fahrenheit. These will give you the same results but in less time.

Cooking Capacity

It is hard for us to determine a specific cooking capacity, but you will need to look at the capacity and consider whether it is the right size. The cooking capacity for a standard smoker should not be smaller than 400-square inches. Many of the high-end electric smokers will have a cooking capacity of almost 750-square inches.

Grates and Build Quality

The number of grates you receive will depend on the cooking capacity. Larger units will have more grates to make them more efficient. However, you can find many options that have more grates. In terms of the build quality, one needs to look for stainless steel. Stainless steel can easily be cleaned and a wet cloth should ensure that it is ready for the next use.

Dimensions and Weight

Unfortunately, all the features need to have some form of weight and size. You will need to determine how much room you have available and this will determine the size and dimensions you can look for. The weight translates to how easy the unit will be to move. Most of the top options are around 50-70 pounds in total weight.

Accessories

Most of these smokers have a variety of accessories. The control panel should be electric for the most part, but the Bluetooth remote control can give you remote access to the unit. Additionally, a drip tray will catch all the oil and fats as well. It is recommended that you consider the value of the product and the different accessories.

Price and Warranty

Finally, the price is an important part and while we have selected the best electric smoker under $300, there are many more options available. You must have one at an affordable price if you are a beginner. The warranty will give you peace of mind and trust in the manufacturer that it is made from good quality materials.

Why to use an Electric Smoker?

Electric smokers have become quite popular among barbecue novices as an alternative to other traditional smoking methods. The reliable convenience of a quality electric smoker makes it a great option for people who are busy with hectic schedules.

You can cook a variety of foods using an electric smoker such as turkey, chicken, ribs, steaks, pork, and fish. Smaller meats can be cooked whole while larger meats like turkey and chicken have to be cut smaller. Small items like shrimp need to be kept in a container together to help them retain the moisture.

The most obvious reason to opt for an electric cooker is its virtually instant heat created by electricity and the convenience it offers.

Unlike charcoal smokers, you don’t have to worry about calculating the amount of coal needed or getting the wood pellets ready which can prove to be a daunting task in the winters.

Here are some other advantages of electric smokers:

Even Smoke and Heat Distribution: All controls are digitally managed so you need not worry about adjusting the amount of coal, airflow level, or wood burners. Just sit back and relax while the smoker cooks a flavorful and tasty barbecue meal.

Versatile: Unlike gas or pellet smokers, an electric grill and smoker is quite mobile and versatile as it does not have to depend on bags of pellets or propane fuel tanks. All that you need is just an electric power outlet.

Flexibility: These cookers are the perfect option if you are looking for something which can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Many of these electric smokers are designed such that they can easily fit into homes with limited space thus enabling you to make beer steaks, smoked meat, pork chops, salmon, full-sized chicken, roasted corn, and quite a few other vegetables in your kitchen.

Portable electric smokers and grills are also available that can easily fit into your car so next time you go to the beach you can carry them with you.

Healthier and Cleaner Option: No charcoal or gas means no air pollution and elimination of toxins that tend to get infused into the meat during long smoking sessions like hydro or carbon monoxides. Also, there are no cancer risks or any other health risks associated with charcoal smoking.

Electric smokers are available today in a wide range of sizes and designs. Choosing one which suits your requirements will depend on how much use you plan to put it through and the price. In the end, it all boils down to the convenience, size, and flavor it infuses into the food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Value is important and before you buy any product, you must have a thorough understanding of the elements and the features. While we have tried to cover as many of these questions in the article, there are still a few questions many of you might have. Here are some of the prominent questions we could find:

1. Is A Pellet Smoker Better Than An Electric Smoker?

A pellet smoker is an efficient option for sustainable use and it is easier to get started. However, the unit is not as fast or easy to use as the electric smoker is. As a rule of thumb, beginners must stick to the electric smoker. You will simply need to add the wood chips and the smoker will do all the work for you.

2. Do You Soak Wood Chips For An Electric Smoker?

The electric smoker has many electrical features and one of these features is efficient temperature control. Since it will efficiently control the temperature of the unit, you don’t need to soak the wood chips. However, the soaked wood chips will make it possible to control the temperature more efficiently and give you a great taste.

3. Can I Use Aluminum Foil In My Electric Smoker?

It is never recommended to use aluminum due to the build-up of the heat already present in the smoker. However, one can use aluminum foil if you feel that it is needed. If you decide to use aluminum foil, you should try to keep the airflow consistent. This means that you should not obstruct any of the holes in the aluminum.

Wrapping Up

Now that you have seen the best electric smokers, you should have all the information you need to get started. These electric smokers are some of the very best on the market today and we would recommend them for the value they offer. Now, it is your turn to let us know in the comment section if we have missed any of your favorites.