Smoking can be an excellent way to impart a delicious taste to your foods, and it is also great for creating tender meats thanks to the low-and-slow cooking method. There are, however, some safety considerations to keep in mind when using a smoker at home.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) offers the following tips on staying safe while smoking foods, including:
- Thawing food safely
- Marinating
- Proper food storage
- Avoiding cross-contamination
- Cooking thoroughly
- Packing up leftovers
The CDC estimates that about 1 in 6 Americans (or 48 million people) get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die of foodborne diseases each and every year, which makes ensuring your smoker is working properly of the utmost importance. Young children, pregnant women and the elderly are all at increased risk of contracting a foodborne illness.
As many smokers are attached to grills or function in much the same way, you’ll want to follow the safe principles of grilling shared by the National Fire Protection Association, which advises the following safety precautions when grilling, including:
- Grilling only outdoors
- Keeping children and pets away from the grill area
- Keeping the grill clean of grease
- Regularly testing for gas/propane leaks
- Never leaving a grill unattended
You can find smokers that use charcoal, electric, gas, pellets, and even log-burning models. It will mostly come down to a personal preference which model is best for your needs. All are fairly comparable in price, but included accessories (such as racks and easy-access panels) will factor into the cost. Size is also an issue. You don’t want a unit that’s so large you’re running it nearly empty every time you cook, but you don’t want a model that’s too small for your needs.
Electric models are the most user-friendly as their temperature and smoke level controls make for near foolproof smoking. Gas and charcoal can be more finicky to get right until you’ve mastered the art of smoking.
With the above information in mind, in no particular order here are 40 of the smokers that we consider the best, based on available features and average customer ratings and reviews.
1. Char-Broil Offset Smoker American Gourmet Grill
This unit offers an all-in-one grilling solution that features a charcoal grill, barbeque, and smoker in one. It boasts 290 square inches of cooking surface in the main chamber and 140 square inches of cooking surface in the firebox chamber.
Key features:
- Built-in damper
- Easy access clean-out door
- Wheels for ease of portability
2. Weber 721001 Smokey Mountain Cooker 18-Inch Charcoal Smoker
This charcoal smoker is available in a choice of three different sizes to suit any grilling enthusiast’s needs and is large enough to accommodate both a turkey and full-sized ham at the same time.
Key features:
- Durable porcelain enameled steel construction
- Includes water pan, thermometer, heat-resistant nylon handle, cover
- 10 year warranty
3. Masterbuilt 20072115 Bluetooth Smart Digital Electric Smoker, 30-Inch
This electric smoker is available in a choice of two different sizes and several choices of configurations to suit nearly any household’s needs. It comes complete with integrated Bluetooth technology, allowing you to control the smoker from your device.
Key features:
- 721 square inches of cooking space
- Built-in meat thermometer
- Side wood chip loading system
4. Nordic Ware 365 Indoor/Outdoor Kettle Smoker
This kettle-style smoker is suitable for use both indoors and outdoors to impart a delicious smoky flavor to your foods. The high dome cover lets you smoke even large items and the unit comes complete with base pan, water pan, non-stick smoking rack, recipe booklet and wood chips.
Key features:
- Meat thermometer included
- Suitable for use with various cooktops
- Made in the USA
5. Masterbuilt 20051311 GS30D 2-Door Propane Smoker
This electric smoker is available in a choice of two different sizes and several choices of configurations to suit nearly any household’s needs. It comes complete with four chrome smoking racks, stainless steel burner, regulator, and hose.
Key features:
- Includes porcelain-coated wood chip tray
- Locking door
- Push-button ignition for easy starts
6. Bradley Smokers Original Smoker (33.5 x 17.5 x 20.25-Inch)
This smoker comes complete with four removable racks and boasts a durable stainless steel interior to provide you with years of long-lasting use. The variable temperature controls allow you to find the precise temperature and smoke level for your foods.
Key features:
- Doubles as a slow cooker or a slow roasting oven
- Integrated rack support system
- Recipe booklet included
7. Weber 711001 Smokey Mountain Cooker 14-Inch Charcoal Smoker
This charcoal smoker is available in a choice of three different sizes to suit any grilling enthusiast’s needs and features an integrated lid thermometer for perfect results every time.
Key features:
- Durable porcelain enameled steel construction
- Includes water pan, and heat-resistant nylon handle
- 10 year warranty
8. Masterbuilt 20075315 Front Controller Smoker with RF Remote Control, 40-Inch
This electric smoker boasts 975 square inches of cooking space and comes complete with four cooking racks, built-in meat thermometer, and an internal light. There’s also an included RF remote control that allows you to monitor food when you’re not at the unit.
Key features:
- Dishwasher-safe components
- Integrated water bowl and drip catching system
- Back wheels for ease of portability
9. Bradley Digital 4-Rack Smoker
This electric smoker comes complete with four cooking racks and is capable of providing up to 8 hours of controlled cool smoke. The digital controls make adjusting temperature and cooking time easy.
Key features:
- Durable powder coated epoxy steel exterior
- ETL, CE listed
- 1 year warranty
10. Smoke Hollow 30164G LPG Smoker, 30-Inch
This propane-fueled smoker boasts more than 1.5 cubic feet of cooking capacity and comes complete with three chrome-plated cooking racks, a wood chip pan, and commercial grade temperature gauge.
Key features:
- 10,000 BTUs
- Sure-lock door latch system
- Durable 1-piece steel cabinet construction
11. Stovetop Smoker – The Original Camerons Stainless Steel Smoker with Wood Chips
This stovetop smoker is suitable for use both indoors and outdoors and comes in a choice of different sizes to suit most families’ needs. It is suitable for use with all heat sources and is dishwasher-safe for easy cleanups.
Key features:
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Two woodchip flavor samples included
- 1 year warranty
12. PolyScience The Smoking Gun Pro Hand-Held Smoke Infuser
This handheld food smoker is great for imparting a smoky flavor to foods in small spaces where a full-sized smoker just isn’t practical or convenient. It’s also easily portable for camping or on-the-go cookouts.
Key features:
- Includes acrylic stand, 17.5-inch nozzle extender hose, and wood chip samples
- Requires four AA batteries (included)
- Suitable for use indoors
13. Weber 731001 Smokey Mountain Cooker 22-Inch Charcoal Smoker
This charcoal smoker is available in a choice of three different sizes to suit any grilling enthusiast’s needs and is large enough to accommodate both a turkey and full-sized ham at the same time.
Key features:
- Durable porcelain enameled steel construction
- Includes water pan, thermometer, heat-resistant nylon handle, cover
- 10 year warranty
14. Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker, 725 Square Inch (14202004)
Available in a choice of three different sizes, this electric smoker provides 725 square inches of cooking space and comes complete with four smoking racks for all your cooking needs. An automatic shutoff and integrated warming feature ensure your food stays fresh once fully cooked.
Key features:
- High capacity grease tray included
- Integrated wheels for ease of portability
- Removable temperature gauge
15. Bradley Digital 6-Rack Smoker
This electric smoker boasts 780 square inches of cooking space and comes complete with six racks to accommodate your favorite foods. It provides up to 8 hours of controlled cool smoke without refuelling and features an insulated stainless steel interior and internal thermostat.
Key features:
- Digitally adjust temperature, time, and smoke
- Separate smoke and oven burners
- 1 year warranty
16. Char-Broil Electric Vertical Smoker, 30-Inch
This electric smoker provides 505 square inches of cooking space and comes complete with three adjustable chrome-plated cooking racks. The lid-mounted temperature gauge and insulated, double-walled construction help monitor and retain heat without sacrificing food safety.
Key features:
- Includes porcelain wood chip and water pan
- Variable temperature control
- Porcelain ash pan and grease cup for easy cleanups
17. Masterbuilt 20050211 Black Propane Smoker, 40-Inch
This propane-fueled smoker boasts 1,307 square inches of cooking space and comes complete with four chrome cooking racks, and built-in internal temperature gauge. A choice of three sizes and configurations ensures you find the perfect match for your smoking needs.
Key features:
- Push button ignition
- Includes porcelain-coated wood chip tray and water pan
- 15,400 BTUs
18. Smokehouse Products Big Chief Front Load Smoker
This electric smoker boasts an easy-to-use front-loading design that can hold up to 50 pounds of meat at a time and comes complete with five chrome-plated smoking racks. The dishwasher-safe drip pan makes for easy cleanups and boasts made-in-the-USA quality.
Key features:
- No assembly required
- UL, CUL, and CSA listed
- 2 year warranty
19. Camp Chef 18-Inch Smoke Vault
This propane-fueled smoker comes complete with three removable smoking racks, plus a bonus rack for making jerky or seafood. The built-in ignitor provides for easy starts, and the three adjustable damper valves allow for precision temperature and smoking control.
Key features:
- 20,000 BTUs
- Recipe booklet included
- Integrated door thermometer
20. Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker with SmartChef Technology
This electric smoker boasts 725 square inches of cooking space and comes complete with four chrome racks for all your smoking needs. Smart technology allows you to monitor the status of your food via the SmartChef app and will even send you notifications when cooking is complete.
Key features:
- Integrated meat thermometer
- Provides up to 6.5 hours of smoke
- Automatic shutoff when food is done
21. Char-Broil Offset Smoker American Gourmet Deluxe Charcoal Grill
This unit offers an all-in-one grilling solution that features a charcoal grill, barbeque, and smoker in one. It boasts 670 square inches of cooking surface in the main chamber and 355 square inches of cooking surface in the firebox chamber.
Key features:
- Cool-touch handles
- Easy access clean-out door
- Wheels for ease of portability
22. Smoke Hollow 44241G2 44-Inch Vertical LP Gas Smoker
This propane-fueled smoker is the largest model available from this brand and provides 7 cubic feet of cooking capacity. It comes complete with two standard grids, two mesh jerky grids, one rib rack grid, and a sausage hanger.
Key features:
- Double door design helps retain heat and smoke
- 10,000 BTUs
- ANSI certified, CSA listed
23. Char-Broil Vertical Gas Smoker
This propane-fueled smoker boasts 595 square inches of cooking surface and comes complete with three chrome-plated cooking grates for all your smoking needs. Thanks to the double drawer design it helps retain heat and smoke when adding additional wood chips.
Key features:
- Includes porcelain wood chip and water pan
- Top warming grate included
- Integrated temperature gauge
24. Smoke Hollow 38205GW LP Gas Smoker with Window, 38-Inch
Available in a choice of two different sizes for all your smoking needs, this unit boasts a 3.4 cubic foot capacity and comes complete with four adjustable chrome-plated cooking grids. The two door design allows you to add additional chips without losing heat or smoke.
Key features:
- Push button ignition
- Includes porcelain wood chip and water pan
- Sausage hanger included
25. Jim Beam BTDS76JB Bradley Smoker 4-Rack Digital Outdoor Smoker
The perfect gift for the Jim Beam lover in your life, this branded electric smoker boasts 520 square inches of cooking surface and comes complete with four fully-supported, removable racks. It features digital temperature and smoke control for precision cooking every time.
Key features:
- Fully insulated stainless steel interior
- Separate burners for smoke and oven
- 1 year warranty
26. Smoke Hollow 30162E Electric Smoker
This electric smoker comes complete with four removable cooking racks for all your smoking needs and the integrated side handles allow for ease of portability and convenient placement.
Key features:
- Magnetic door latching system
- Includes porcelain wood chip and water pan
- Easy to assemble
27. Masterbuilt 20070910 30-Inch Black Electric Digital Smoker, Top Controller
Available in a choice of two different colors, and in several different configurations, this electric smoker boasts 730 square inches of cooking space and comes complete with four chrome-coated cooking racks for all your smoking needs.
Key features:
- Easy-to-use digital temperature and timer controls
- Convenient side loading of wood chips
- Removable drip pan and water pan included
28. Dyna-Glo DGY784BDP Double Door Vertical Smoker
Available in a choice of three different sizes and two different fuel sources, this smoker boasts 784 square inches of cooking space and comes complete with four adjustable steel wire racks. It includes a porcelain enameled wood chip and water pan and features a built-in temperature gauge.
Key features:
- 15,000 BTUs
- CSA certified
- 1 year warranty
29. Smoke Hollow 3500 Gas/Charcoal/Smoker Grill with Side Burner
This unit offers an all-in-one grilling solution that features a charcoal grill, barbeque, and smoker in one. It boasts 860 square inches of cooking surface and comes complete with a 10,000 BTU side burner that allows you to cook complete meals at once.
Key features:
- 10,000 BTUs
- Cast iron cooking grids
- Caster wheels for ease of portability
30. Masterbuilt 20050614 Propane Smoker, 44-Inch
This propane-fueled smoker boasts a massive 2,000 square inches of cooking space and comes complete with four chrome cooking racks and a built-in temperature gauge. A choice of three sizes and configurations ensures you find the perfect match for your smoking needs.
Key features:
- Push button ignition
- Includes porcelain-coated wood chip tray and water pan
- 8,250 BTUs
31. Smokin-It Model #1 Electric Smoker
This electric smoker boasts a capacity of up to 22 pounds of meat per load and comes complete with three removable smoking shelves. The integrated side handles and caster wheels allow for ease of portability and convenient placement.
Key features:
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Comes fully assembled
- NSF certified
32. Smoke Hollow 36-Inch LP Gas Smoker
This propane-fueled smoker boasts a 3.0 cubic foot capacity and comes complete with four adjustable chrome-plated cooking grids. The tempered viewing glass and integrated thermometer allow you to check on your meat without opening the door and losing heat or smoke.
Key features:
- External-loading wood chip tray
- Variable temperature control
- ANSI certified, CSA listed
33. Southern Country 2 in 1 Electric Water Smoker & Grill
This electric smoker and grill boasts 351 square inches of cooking surface and comes complete with a 5.5 quart water pan that cooks food slowly for perfectly juicy results every time. It can hold up to 20 pounds of food at a time and has been made in the USA.
Key features:
- Heat-resistant handles
- Interlocking base and body
- UL, CUL listed
34. Smokintex 1100 Pro Series Electric Smoker
This electric smoker boasts a compact design that is ideal for use in smaller spaces, without sacrificing on performance. It boasts a 243 cubic inch capacity and comes complete with two stainless steel cooking trays.
Key features:
- Optional wheels available
- Durable, fully insulated stainless steel construction
- Dishwasher-safe components
35. Smoke Hollow 26142E Electric Smoker, 26-Inch
This electric smoker boasts a 1.3 cubic foot capacity and comes complete with two fully adjustable chrome-plated cooking grids. It features a commercial quality heat indicator and includes a wood chip and water pan for perfect at-home smoking results.
Key features:
- Cool-touch handle with sure-lock system
- Durable fully-welded steel cabinet
- UL listed
36. Pit Barrel Cooker Co. 18-1/2 in. Classic Pit Barrel Cooker Package
This competition quality smoker boasts a large, 30 gallon size that is suitable for use at barbequing competitions or for large backyard get-togethers. It comes complete with two grill racks, charcoal tray, and water tray.
Key features:
- Fan capable
- Durable, high heat paint
- Includes 8 stainless steel hooks
37. Red Box Smoker – Competition Quality Charcoal Smoker by Sweet Swine O’Mine
This charcoal smoker boasts a competition quality design in a bright and stunning red color. It features a lightweight design that is easily portable and comes complete with three cooking racks.
Key features:
- Comes fully assembled
- Removable water pan included
- Insulated for maximum efficiency
38. Smoke Hollow 38202G LPG 2-Door Smoker, 38-Inch
This propane-fueled smoker boasts 3.4 cubic feet of cooking capacity and comes complete with four chrome-plated cooking racks, sausage hanger, a wood chip pan, and commercial grade temperature gauge.
Key features:
- 20,000 BTUs
- Sure-lock door latch system
- Integrated upper and lower vent controls
39. Old Smokey Electric Smoker
This electric smoker comes complete with two grills with integrated handles for easy insertion and removal, along with variable heat control for precision cooking.
Key features:
- Flat top lets juices drip back onto food
- Corrosion-resistant aluminized steel construction
- Made in the USA
40. Dyna-Glo DGO1176BDC-D Charcoal Offset Smoker
Available in a choice of two different sizes, this charcoal smoker boasts 784 square inches of cooking area that can accommodate up to 100 pounds of food at once, and comes complete with six fully adjustable cooking grates.
Key features:
- Includes porcelain enameled steel charcoal and wood tray
- Built-in stainless steel thermometer
- Sliding, removable steel ash pan for easy cleanups
