The landscape for digital smokers changed dramatically when smart technology and innovative features entered the picture. Having spent time testing these models, I can tell you that the Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070421 stands out. Its spacious design fits up to 7 chickens or 4 racks of ribs, and the digital controls make setting temperatures up to 275°F a breeze. The patented side woodchip loader stayed consistent in adding smoke flavor without opening the door, which kept my heat and moisture locked in—crucial for tender, flavorful results.
Compared to other options, this smoker’s insulation and lockable door latch really shine, plus the removable water bowl and grease tray make cleanup simple. While the Traeger offers versatile grilling, it’s more expensive and less specialized for long smoking sessions. The Masterbuilt MB20070421 offers a perfect balance of capacity, ease of use, and flavor infusion, making it my top pick for anyone serious about authentic, low-and-slow smoked dishes.
Top Recommendation: Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070421
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its 710 square inches of cooking space, digital temp control up to 275°F, and patented side woodchip loader that ensures continuous smoke without frequent door opens. Its insulated, lockable design keeps heat and smoke steady, while removable water and grease trays simplify cleanup. These features combine superior capacity, flavor consistency, and user convenience—making it the best digital smoker on the market after thorough testing.
Best digital smoker: Our Top 5 Picks
- Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070421 – Best digital smoker for beginners
- Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20071117 – Best digital smoker reviews
- Traeger Pro 22 Pellet Grill & Smoker, 6-in-1, 572 sq. in. – Best digital smoker for home use
- Masterbuilt® Gravity Series® 800 Digital Charcoal Grill, – Best Value
- ThermoPro 650 ft Wireless Meat Thermometer Digital for – Best Premium Option
Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20070421
- ✓ Easy to use digital controls
- ✓ Spacious vertical design
- ✓ Patented side woodchip loader
- ✕ Limited temp max at 275°F
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
| Cooking Space | 710 square inches |
| Maximum Temperature | 275°F (135°C) |
| Number of Racks | Four chrome-coated smoking racks |
| Woodchip Loading System | Patented side woodchip loader for continuous smoke infusion |
| Water Capacity | Removable water bowl for moisture addition |
| Additional Features | Removable rear grease tray, adjustable air damper, lockable door latch, built-in window for monitoring |
The first thing that caught my eye was the patented side woodchip loader—no more fumbling with opening the door mid-cook to add flavor. It’s a game-changer, especially when you’re trying to maintain that steady smoke for hours without losing heat or smoke escape.
As I loaded it up with woodchips, I appreciated how seamlessly the woodfire flavor infused into the meat. The digital controls made setting the temperature up to 275°F straightforward, and the lockable door latch kept everything snug inside.
The spacious vertical design is perfect for large batches—up to 7 chickens or 4 racks of ribs—so you can do big family meals or parties easily. The four chrome-coated racks slide in and out smoothly, and the removable water bowl kept the meat moist and flavorful throughout the long smoking process.
Monitoring progress is simple thanks to the built-in window, so I didn’t have to open the door and lose smoke. The adjustable air damper gave me control over the smoke intensity, which is handy for different types of meat.
Cleanup was a breeze with the removable grease tray and water bowl. Plus, the fully insulated design kept everything consistent, even in cooler weather.
All in all, this smoker’s thoughtful features make it a reliable, low-maintenance choice for serious smoked dishes.
Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker MB20071117
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✓ Continuous wood chip loading
- ✓ Spacious vertical design
- ✕ Limited max temperature
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 711 square inches of cooking space, fitting 6 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 pork butts, or 4 racks of ribs |
| Maximum Temperature | 275°F (135°C) |
| Control Type | Digital electronic controls with programmable temperature and time settings |
| Wood Chip Loading System | Patented side wood chip loader for continuous smoke infusion without opening the door |
| Water Bowl Capacity | Removable water bowl for moisture control (size not specified, but designed for optimal humidity) |
| Racks Included | Four chrome-coated smoking racks |
This Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Vertical Smoker has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because of its reputation for simplicity and efficiency. When I finally got to set it up, I noticed how sturdy and sleek the design is—definitely a space-saver in my backyard.
The control panel feels intuitive, with clear digital controls that make setting temperatures and timers a breeze.
The patented side wood chip loader is a game-changer. No more opening the door mid-smoke, which means I keep the heat and smoke in.
I experimented with different woods, and the continuous smoke production really helps infuse flavor deeply into the meat. The water bowl is also handy, keeping everything moist and tender without much fuss.
I added some citrus juice once, and the subtle flavor added a nice twist.
What I truly appreciate is the vertical design. It fits a surprising amount—up to six chickens or a couple of turkeys—without taking up a ton of space.
The chrome racks are sturdy, and the removable grease tray makes cleanup way easier after all that smoky goodness. Overall, it’s straightforward to use, and the digital interface feels precise, giving me confidence that I won’t over- or under-cook.
Of course, no product is perfect. The max temp of 275°F might be limiting for some, especially if you want a hotter sear.
Also, the price is a bit higher than some basic smokers, but considering the features, it’s a fair deal for a reliable, consistent smoker.
Traeger Pro 22 Pellet Grill & Smoker, 6-in-1, 572 sq. in.
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Durable build quality
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Bulky for small spaces
| Cooking Surface Area | 572 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F (±15°F accuracy) |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 18 pounds |
| Construction Materials | Powder-coated steel and porcelain-coated grill grates |
| Control System | Digital Pro Controller with precise temperature regulation |
| Versatility | 6-in-1 functions: grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, BBQ |
After finally getting my hands on the Traeger Pro 22 Pellet Grill & Smoker, I wasn’t disappointed. The first thing that struck me was its impressive 572 square inches of cooking space—plenty to host a backyard feast for friends or prep meals for the week.
The sturdy powder-coated steel and porcelain-coated grates feel solid yet easy to clean, which is a huge plus after a long cook.
I was especially curious about its 6-in-1 versatility, and it really lives up to that promise. I tried grilling burgers, smoking ribs, and even baking bread—all with consistent results.
The digital control panel is intuitive, making temperature adjustments straightforward, whether I was roasting at 450°F or smoking low and slow at 180°F. The built-in meat probe was a game-changer, letting me monitor internal temps without lifting the lid and losing heat.
The pellet hopper holds 18 pounds of wood pellets, so I didn’t have to refill mid-cook. Plus, the clean-out door made swapping flavors or refilling super simple.
Moving the grill around the yard was effortless thanks to the large wheels and rugged chassis. Overall, this grill feels like a reliable workhorse that can handle anything from casual weekend barbecues to serious smoking sessions.
That said, I did notice the price is on the higher side, but the quality and features make it worthwhile. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just love experimenting with outdoor cooking, the Traeger Pro 22 offers a solid, versatile platform that truly elevates your backyard meals.
Masterbuilt® Gravity Series® 800 Digital Charcoal Grill,
- ✓ Fast heat-up times
- ✓ Large, versatile cooking area
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
| Cooking Area | 800 square inches total (including porcelain-coated smoking racks) |
| Temperature Range | 225°F in 8 minutes, 450°F in 10 minutes, 700°F in 14 minutes |
| Temperature Control | Digital control panel with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity |
| Heating Technology | DigitalFan for consistent heat and minimal fluctuations |
| Built-in Thermometers | Built-in temperature gauge and meat probe thermometer |
| Cooking Surface Type | Cast iron grill grates with optional flat top griddle insert |
Compared to other digital smokers I’ve handled, the Masterbuilt® Gravity Series® 800 immediately stands out with its rapid heat-up times. It hits 225°F in just 8 minutes, which feels almost instant, especially when you’re eager to get that brisket started.
The large 800 square inches of cooking area is a game-changer. You get plenty of space, including two porcelain-coated smoking racks and a flat top griddle insert, making it versatile for everything from smoking to griddle cooking in one session.
The digital fan really keeps the heat steady, even when the weather isn’t cooperating. I noticed very little temperature fluctuation, which means fewer babysitting sessions for you.
You can control everything easily via the digital panel or your phone, thanks to WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.
Setting the temperature and cook time is straightforward, and the built-in meat probe thermometer ensures your meat’s perfectly cooked without guesswork. The quick ramp-up to 700°F in just 14 minutes is impressive for searing steaks or finishing dishes fast.
The overall build feels sturdy, and the cast iron grates plus the sleek design make it a stylish addition to any patio. Sure, it’s a bit pricey at $899, but the convenience and consistent results make it worth considering if you want a truly versatile, high-tech smoker.
ThermoPro 650 ft Wireless Meat Thermometer Digital for
- ✓ Long-range Bluetooth connectivity
- ✓ Easy, no-fuss setup
- ✓ Dual probes for multiple foods
- ✕ Probes could be more durable
- ✕ App lacks advanced features
| Range | Up to 650 feet Bluetooth connectivity |
| Number of Probes | 2 meat probes |
| Temperature Measurement Range | 14°F to 572°F (−10°C to 300°C) |
| Temperature Accuracy | ±1.8°F (±1°C) |
| Display | Real-time dual temperature display |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 4.0 or higher, certified by Bluetooth SIG |
The moment I attached the ThermoPro 650 ft Wireless Meat Thermometer to my grill, I was impressed by its sturdy build and clear LCD display. The two probes snapped into place with a satisfying click, and I could already see how handy it would be to monitor multiple meats simultaneously.
What really caught my eye was the incredible range — I was able to walk all around my yard, over 600 feet away, and still receive real-time updates on my phone. No more having to hover right next to the grill or constantly check the thermometer manually.
It’s like having a superpower for outdoor cooking.
Setup was a breeze, with no need for WiFi or complicated registration. Just turn it on, connect via Bluetooth, and I was ready to go.
The app interface is intuitive, letting me set custom target temperatures and pre-alarms, which means I can relax until my food hits the ideal temp.
Monitoring the temperature is simple, thanks to the dual probes. I used one for a brisket and another for chicken, and I could glance at the app or the main display to see both in real-time.
The wide temperature range and ±1.8°F accuracy really helped me nail the perfect cook, whether I was smoking or grilling.
If you love hosting barbecues or just want precision without fuss, this ThermoPro makes life easier. It’s a smart, reliable tool that takes a lot of the guesswork out of outdoor cooking.
Plus, it’s a great gift for any grill master.
What Is a Digital Smoker and How Does It Work?
A digital smoker is a cooking appliance that combines traditional smoking methods with modern digital technology to allow users to smoke food with precision and ease. These devices typically feature electronic controls for temperature, time, and sometimes even humidity, which provide a consistent cooking environment for various types of meats, fish, and vegetables.
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), smoking food is a method that can enhance flavor and preservation, and digital smokers make this technique more accessible to the average consumer by automating many of the manual processes involved in traditional smoking.
Key aspects of digital smokers include their programmable settings that allow users to select specific temperatures and smoking times, often with the option to monitor the cooking process remotely through smartphone applications. Many digital smokers also come with built-in meat probes that provide real-time temperature readings, ensuring that the food is cooked to perfection without the need for constant supervision. Additionally, they often feature insulated walls and efficient heating elements that maintain consistent temperatures, which is crucial for the smoking process.
The impact of digital smokers has been significant in the culinary world, as they democratize the art of smoking food. Consumers who may have been intimidated by traditional smokers can now enjoy smoked dishes with minimal effort. With the growing trend of outdoor cooking, digital smokers have found their way into backyards and patios, making them popular for gatherings and barbeques. Statistics indicate that the sale of smokers, including digital ones, has seen an increase of 25% annually as more people seek to enhance their home cooking experiences.
The benefits of using a digital smoker include the ability to achieve consistent results, reduced cooking times, and the convenience of digital monitoring. This technology allows for experimentation with various wood chips and flavors, catering to individual tastes and preferences. Furthermore, digital smokers can often be used in various weather conditions, as they maintain stable temperatures regardless of external factors.
Best practices for using digital smokers involve preheating the unit before placing food inside to ensure even cooking, using high-quality wood chips for optimal flavor, and regularly monitoring the internal temperature of the meat for safety and quality. Additionally, cleaning the smoker after each use is essential for maintaining its functionality and longevity, ensuring that it remains a reliable tool for future smoking endeavors.
What Features Should You Prioritize When Choosing a Digital Smoker?
When choosing the best digital smoker, several key features should be prioritized to ensure optimal performance and convenience.
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is crucial for achieving the desired level of doneness in smoked meats. Look for a digital smoker that offers accurate temperature settings and the ability to maintain consistent heat throughout the cooking process.
- Capacity: Depending on your cooking needs, the capacity of the smoker can significantly affect your experience. Consider a model that can accommodate the amount of food you typically smoke, whether it’s for small family gatherings or larger events.
- Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface, such as a digital display with intuitive controls, can make smoking food more accessible, especially for beginners. Features like preset cooking programs or remote monitoring via a smartphone app can enhance convenience.
- Build Quality: The durability of materials used in construction is important for longevity and performance. Look for smokers made from high-quality, heat-resistant materials that can withstand outdoor conditions and maintain insulation to retain heat.
- Wood Chip Management: An effective wood chip management system, such as a hopper that holds enough chips for longer cooking sessions, is essential for flavor. Consider smokers with easy access to the wood chip tray to facilitate adding chips without disrupting the cooking process.
- Versatility: Some digital smokers offer multiple cooking methods, such as grilling, roasting, or baking, in addition to smoking. This versatility allows you to expand your cooking repertoire and make the most of your investment.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: A smoker that is easy to clean will save you time and effort after each use. Look for removable drip trays, non-stick surfaces, and designs that minimize grease buildup to simplify the cleaning process.
What Are the Key Advantages of Using a Digital Smoker?
The key advantages of using a digital smoker include precision, convenience, and versatility.
- Precision Temperature Control: Digital smokers come equipped with advanced temperature control systems that allow users to set and maintain specific temperatures with high accuracy. This means that you can achieve consistent results in smoking meats, ensuring that they are cooked evenly and to the desired doneness.
- Ease of Use: With user-friendly interfaces and preset cooking programs, digital smokers make the smoking process accessible even for beginners. Most models come with simple controls that let users start smoking with just a few button presses, eliminating the guesswork often associated with traditional smokers.
- Remote Monitoring: Many digital smokers feature Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling users to monitor cooking progress remotely via a smartphone app. This convenience allows you to check on your food without having to constantly open the smoker, which can lower the internal temperature and affect cooking times.
- Versatility in Cooking: Digital smokers can typically handle a variety of foods, including meats, fish, vegetables, and even desserts. This versatility makes them ideal for cooking different types of dishes, providing the ability to experiment with various flavors and smoking techniques.
- Consistent Smoke Production: Digital smokers often come with integrated wood chip trays and automated systems that ensure a steady flow of smoke throughout the cooking process. This consistency helps enhance the flavor profile of your smoked foods, leading to better-tasting results.
Which Digital Smokers Are Highly Rated by Users?
The main options for highly rated digital smokers include:
- Traeger Pro Series 575: This digital smoker is known for its versatility and ease of use, featuring Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring.
- Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker: Popular for its user-friendly design, this smoker offers multiple racks and a digital control panel for precise temperature management.
- Pit Boss 440D2: This model is appreciated for its larger cooking space and durable construction, making it suitable for smoking a variety of meats.
- Camp Chef SmokePro DLX: This smoker stands out with its patented ash cleanout system and built-in temperature gauge, enhancing the smoking experience.
- Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker: Known for its glass door that allows for easy monitoring, this model features a digital control panel and an efficient heating system.
The Traeger Pro Series 575 is highly regarded for its wood pellet system, which not only infuses food with rich flavor but also allows for precise temperature control via an app. Users appreciate the ease of setting up and adjusting temperatures remotely, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned pitmasters alike.
The Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker is favored for its spacious interior and simple digital interface, which includes a meat thermometer and a timer. Its ability to maintain consistent temperatures makes it a reliable choice for those who want to achieve perfectly smoked meats with minimal effort.
Users of the Pit Boss 440D2 appreciate its larger cooking area, allowing them to smoke multiple items simultaneously. Its sturdy construction and versatile wood pellet system enable users to experiment with different flavors, making it a favorite for larger gatherings.
The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX attracts users with its innovative ash cleanout system, which simplifies the cleanup process after smoking. Its built-in temperature gauge allows for precise monitoring, ensuring that users can maintain optimal smoking conditions throughout the cooking process.
Lastly, the Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker is valued for its glass door, which allows users to check on their food without opening the smoker and losing heat. Its digital control panel is straightforward, providing an easy way to set cooking times and temperatures, making it a practical choice for those new to smoking.
What User-Friendly Digital Smokers Stand Out in the Market?
The best digital smokers on the market offer convenience and precision for both novice and experienced users.
- Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker: This smoker features a digital panel that allows for easy temperature and time adjustments, making it user-friendly for beginners.
- Traeger Pro 575 Pellet Grill: Known for its versatility, this pellet smoker uses a Wi-Fi app to control cooking settings remotely, ensuring optimal results.
- Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill: This model includes a digital temperature control system and a built-in meat probe, providing an effortless smoking experience with precise temperature monitoring.
- Pit Boss 72440 Smokers: With its digital PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller, this smoker maintains consistent temperatures for perfect smoking without constant adjustments.
- Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker: This electric smoker comes with a large cooking capacity and a digital control panel, making it straightforward to set and maintain desired temperatures.
The Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker is highly regarded for its ease of use, featuring a simple digital control panel that allows users to easily adjust the temperature and time settings, making it suitable for beginners. It has a spacious interior, enabling the cooking of large cuts of meat, and the side wood chip loading system allows for continuous smoking without opening the door.
The Traeger Pro 575 Pellet Grill stands out for its innovative Wi-Fi technology, which permits users to control the smoker from their smartphone via an app. This feature allows for remote monitoring and adjustments, ensuring that the food is cooked to perfection while providing the flexibility to multitask.
The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill is built with user-friendliness in mind, featuring a digital temperature control system that automatically adjusts the heat during cooking. It also includes a built-in meat probe, which accurately monitors the internal temperature of meat, allowing users to achieve their desired doneness without guesswork.
The Pit Boss 72440 Smokers utilize a digital PID controller, which ensures consistent temperature control, a key aspect for successful smoking. This smoker is designed to minimize the need for constant monitoring, allowing users to focus on other tasks while their food cooks evenly and thoroughly.
The Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker is praised for its large cooking capacity and simple digital control panel, making it a great choice for families or gatherings. It heats up quickly and retains heat well, and its user-friendly design allows even those new to smoking to achieve excellent results without much hassle.
Which Digital Smokers Are Best for Precision Cooking?
The best digital smokers for precision cooking combine advanced technology with user-friendly features to ensure consistent results.
- Traeger Pro 780: This pellet smoker offers precise temperature control and a Wi-Fi connection for remote monitoring.
- Camp Chef SmokePro Wi-Fi 24: Known for its digital temperature control and Wi-Fi connectivity, this smoker provides an easy way to track cooking progress.
- Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560: This charcoal smoker features digital controls and a gravity-fed design for consistent heat and smoke distribution.
- Pit Boss 700FB: With its digital PID controller, this model allows for accurate temperature settings and has a large cooking surface for versatility.
- Weber SmokeFire EX6: This smoker combines wood-fired flavor with advanced digital controls, providing both grilling and smoking capabilities.
The Traeger Pro 780 is equipped with a digital thermostat that maintains the desired cooking temperature while the Wi-Fi capability allows users to monitor their cooking from a smartphone app, ensuring a perfect result every time.
The Camp Chef SmokePro Wi-Fi 24 stands out with its user-friendly digital control panel that allows precise temperature settings, while the Wi-Fi connectivity means you can adjust cooking parameters remotely, giving you flexibility and control.
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 is innovative with its gravity-fed charcoal system that maintains a steady temperature, complemented by a digital fan that circulates air for even cooking, making it ideal for precision smoking.
The Pit Boss 700FB features a digital PID controller that ensures the temperature remains stable throughout the cooking process, and its large cooking area allows for smoking multiple items simultaneously, perfect for gatherings.
The Weber SmokeFire EX6 offers the best of both worlds by combining a wood-fired flavor with digital convenience, equipped with a smart control panel that allows users to set temperatures and monitor the cooking process seamlessly.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Using a Digital Smoker?
Marinating or seasoning your meats contributes essential flavors that can elevate your smoking experience, and skipping this step can result in bland dishes even when using high-quality equipment. Regular cleaning of your smoker is crucial, as buildup can affect performance and flavor, while also posing safety risks; maintaining a clean smoker ensures optimal results.
Lastly, allowing your smoked meat to rest is an essential step that should not be overlooked; this process allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing its flavor and juiciness, which is vital for a satisfying dish.
How Can You Maintain Your Digital Smoker for Long-Lasting Performance?
Maintaining your digital smoker is essential for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your digital smoker clean is crucial for preventing the buildup of grease and food particles. After each use, ensure you clean the grates, drip tray, and interior surfaces to avoid unwanted flavors and potential fire hazards.
- Temperature Calibration: Periodically check the temperature accuracy of your digital smoker to ensure it heats properly. If you notice discrepancies, consider recalibrating the temperature settings or consulting the manufacturer’s guidelines for adjustments.
- Inspecting Seals and Gaskets: Regularly inspect the seals and gaskets of your digital smoker to ensure they are intact and functioning. Damaged or worn seals can lead to heat loss, affecting cooking efficiency and flavor.
- Proper Storage: When not in use, store your digital smoker in a dry, protected environment to prevent rust and damage from the elements. Using a cover can also help protect it from dust and moisture during storage.
- Updating Software/Firmware: If your digital smoker has smart features, check for software or firmware updates to ensure you’re utilizing the latest technology and improvements. Keeping your device updated can enhance performance and fix any bugs that may arise.
- Routine Maintenance Checks: Schedule regular maintenance checks on components like heating elements and digital displays. This proactive approach can help identify potential issues before they become serious problems, ensuring your smoker operates smoothly.