Best Smokers For Beginners: Know Everything in one read!

Welcome aspiring pitmasters to the smoking journey with smokers snicket!

My mum always used to say: “Smoking meat is one of the most rewarding ways to take your barbecue skills to the next level”. I never got this thought until I started barbecuing solely by myself, and believe me she was 101% right! 

Perfectly smoked brisket, ribs, or pulled beef cooked low and slow over wood smoke have an unbelievable depth of flavor that is nearly impossible to replicate with other cooking methods. 

But….

Getting started with smokers can be intimidating, especially if you’ve only used a regular charcoal or gas grill in the past. With so many fancy types on the market, it’s hard to know which is the easiest smoker to use as a budget-friendly starter smoker.

I had been in your shoes in my early years of smoking and grilling so today I’m here with this ultimate guide which breaks down everything you need to know about the best beginner smoker. 

I will look at the different fuel sources and designs available, from the best charcoal smoker and best electric smoker for beginners to affordable smokers and best entry level smokers perfect for starting out.  You’ll learn the pros and cons of popular models like offset smokers, kamado grills, and smoker ovens to start mastering smoking techniques. 

Follow my step-by-step instructions on mastering lighting, temperature control, using wood chips for flavour, and smoking techniques to turn out mouth watering backyard barbecue on even the most affordable small meat smoker.

Not only this, your chef Anne is always there for you! Get my secret barbeque recipes for the perfect smoky, mouthwatering BBQ every time only at smokerssnicket.com. 

Without any further delay, let’s get smoking!

What is a BBQ Smoker?

BBQ smokers is a special device used to smoke meat, fish, veggies, or other foods at low temperatures for long periods of time. This infuses the food with a delicious smoky flavor and makes it incredibly moist and tender. 

The main components of a smoker are the cooking chamber, smoke box, and heat source. 

The cooking chamber is an enclosed space where the food sits during the smoking process. Many have grates to hold the food above the bottom. 

The smoke box holds wood chips, pellets, or charcoal that, when heated, produce smoke that gives the food its flavor. The heat source varies – some use electricity or propane while others use charcoal or wood.

Smoking works by cooking foods indirectly using low heat (225-275°F) and smoke. The temperature and duration will vary depending on the food. Brisket or shoulder roast may smoke for 8-12 hours while vegetables or fish take 1-2 hours. The smoke permeates the food and acts as a natural preservative while the low heat tenderises it. 

Why do you need a Smoker?

Smokers are popular for BBQ because they allow the chef to infuse so much flavour into the food. To me as a regular smoker, smoking calls for patience and attention, but the payoff is incredibly juicy, tender meat with a smoky aroma. The taste you get is hard to replicate with other cooking methods. 

The smooth, subtle smokiness is what defines true barbecue.

Best Charcoal Smokers

Charcoal smokers are one of the most popular options for traditional barbecue flavour. They use charcoal as the heating source and wood chips for producing smoke. 

Charcoal smokers come in two main designs:

Offset Smoker – This has a main cooking chamber offset from the charcoal firebox. The offset design helps prevent direct heat from the coals and allows for precise temperature control.

Bullet/Drum Smoker – More affordable vertical design smoker where food cooks directly above the charcoal chamber. Temperature regulation can be more difficult.

Pros of Charcoal Smokers – Benefits of charcoal smokers include that classic smoky taste and the ability to reach high temps for optimal sear. 

Cons of Charcoal Smokers – They require the most effort to maintain consistent heat. But I still classify them as good smokers for beginners because they are relatively easy to use and maintain.

Here are some affordable recommendations on the best charcoal smoker for beginners under $200:

Best Charcoal Smokers for Beginners Under $200

Azuma Bandit Barrel BBQ Charcoal Grill ($196) – Affordable entry-level offset smoker. The large main chamber is 71cm long with 1 rack for grilling or smoking. Not as high quality but good for starters to learn and master.

SUNLIFER BBQ Charcoal Smoker Grill – ($145) 3-in-1 Heavy Duty Barbecue Grill for Garden Camping – 2 pieces cooking grids provide total 646 square inches cooking space, which means there is plenty of room to smoke a variety of meats and vegetables.

CosmoGrill Outdoor XL Smoker  ($149) – With ample cooking space and a built-in thermometer, this best starter smoker is made with premium materials and a user-friendly design, this is the perfect, built to last, American-style outdoor companion.

Mid-Range $200 – $500

Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker  ($429) – Classic affordable charcoal smoker from a leading brand. The 14″ model has 286 sq. inches of cooking space. Porcelain-enamelled lid and bowl retain heat well. Ventilation system makes temperature control easy. 

Dyna-Glo Signature Series Barrel Charcoal Grill & Offset Smoker ($329) – An innovative smoker using charcoal for authentic flavour, perfect for a novice seeking both worlds! This heavy-duty vertical offset smoker provides 784 sq. in. of total cooking space. Handy side firebox for charcoal and wood. 

Kamado Joe Jr 13 Inch Charcoal Grill   ($410) – Kamado style ceramic smoker ideal for smaller quantities. Maintains consistent temperature and imparts rich smoky flavor. 150 sq. in. cooking surface. 

Pit Boss 700FB Pellet Grill and Smoker ($427) – All-in-one pellet smoker allows both smoking and grilling. Good beginner smoker grill with flame broiler for direct grilling. 700 sq. in. cooking capacity. Digital control board.

High-End $500+ 

PK Grills PK300-BCX Portable  ($524) Aluminium smoker made to last with excellent heat retention. 300 sq. in. cooking surface. Slide-out ash tray for easy cleanup.

Broil King 958050 Offset Smoker XL  ($1,099) – Premium smoker has dual dampers for maximum smoke and temperature control. 625 sq. in. primary cooking space, 281 sq. in. warming rack.

KAMADO BONO Ceramic with Dual Zone Grilling System  ($799) – Praised for versatility and ability to hold ultra precise temperatures. Two-zone grilling system, two side deflectors, Kazan pot holder, ceramic chicken rack, ash removal tool and protective grill cover make it my top choice! 

Tips from my personal experience for choosing the right size and features when buying a charcoal smoker:

Size

• Consider how much food you normally smoke. Offset and bullet smokers range from small 20-30 inch models to large 60+ inch capacity. 

• Allow at least 75-100 sq. inches of cooking surface per person. Factor in whether you’ll smoke large cuts like briskets.

• Measure where you plan to place the smoker and ensure adequate clearance. Offsets need more side and rear space.

• Compact vertical smokers are great for small patios or balconies while large cabinet style work for bulk smoking.

Temperature Control

• Look for dual dampers on the lid and chimney to better regulate air flow and temperature.

• Charcoal models with built-in thermometers help monitor temps inside the smoker. Digital controllers offer more precision.

• Water pans or plates can buffer temperature swings. Ceramic kamado grills hold heat extremely well.

Build Quality

• Thicker steel construction retains heat better. Porcelain or powder coated finishes prevent rusting. 

• Sturdy welding and sealed lids prevent air leaks that impact smoking time.

• Choose stainless steel, cast iron, or chrome-plated grates that resist rust and last longer.

Ease of Use

• Vertical bullet smokers with basic dampers are simplest to use. Offsets require more effort managing the firebox.

• Built-in fuel bins or shelves, removable ash pans, and wheeled bases add convenience.

• Look for stackable cooking grates, hooks, and extra shelves to maximise cooking space.

Best Electric Smokers

Electric smokers use a heating element to slowly raise the temperature of wood chips in a box to produce smoke. This smoke is circulated around the cooking chamber. 

Pros of Electric Smokers – Benefits are ease of use with a built-in thermostat and wood chip box. 

Cons of Electric Smokers – Drawbacks are less pronounced smoke flavour and inability to reach higher searing temps.

Among all the categories, my heart goes for the electric type for being the easiest smoker to use. Here is a detailed overview of the best electric smoker brands, models, and price ranges:

Best Budget Smokers Under $200

Masterbuilt 20070112 Cold Smoking Kit ($90) – Basic 30-inch electric smoker with 717 sq. in. of cooking space. Built-in temperature gauge. A great cheap smoker option for beginners.

Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker  ($138) – Vertical smoker with 544 sq. in. of the cooking area. Dual exhaust ports for smoke and temperature management makes it a quality starter smoker.

Cuisinart COS-118 Vertical 18” Electric Smoker  ($159) – Compact smoker ideal for small households. 548 sq. in. of space across 3 chrome racks. Simple dial temperature control.

Mid-Range $200 – $500

Masterbuilt MB20073519 Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker ($249) – Insulated smoker with integrated meat probe and 721 sq. in. of cooking space. Bluetooth and app control. 

Bradley BTDS76P Digital 4-Rack Smoker  ($399) – Unique design with automated bisquette feeder, making it an easy to use smoker. It offers generous cooking space spread over 4 different cooking grates. The insulated double-wall construction makes this electric smoker 10 times more efficient than leading smokers

Smokin-It Model #1 Electric Smoker ($444) – Compact stainless steel smoker lauded for durability. Offers 3.5” of insulation for heat retention. 200-250°F temperature range.

High-End $500+

Cookshack PG500 Pellet Grill Smoker Oven ($1,299) – High-end pellet smoker with digital Smart Controls. Upper and lower cooking grates provide 1,440 sq. in. total area. 

Can’t make any decision?

Head up to our detailed buying guide on PREMIUM QUALITY BEST ELECTRIC SMOKER 2023 to find the best suitable for your needs.

Tips from my personal experience for choosing the right size and features when buying an electric smoker:

Size

• Consider how frequently you’ll use the smoker and for how many people. Size ranges from compact 14” models up to large capacity 40” smokers. 

• Look for at least 500 square inches of cooking surface for a family of 4. Go larger if smoking frequently for big groups.

• Vertical cabinet-style smokers can accommodate more food, while rectangular electric models take up less patio space. 

Temperature Control

• Digital controls allow you to dial in precise temperature settings, while analog dials offer more variability.

• Insulated models and tightly sealed doors help hold in heat and smoke. Double wall stainless steel builds work best.

• Look for adjustable vents that let you manage airflow and a thermostat for monitoring internal temp.

Convenience Features

• Drip pans or drain systems make cleanup much easier after smoking.

• Remote control or monitoring like Bluetooth allows you to check the smoker from a distance.

• Auto wood chip dispensers regulate smoke without constantly opening the smoker.

• Interior lights let you view food without dropping temperatures by opening the door.

Durability

• Stainless steel interiors resist rust and make cleaning easier.

• Chrome or stainless steel racks last longer than cheaper chrome-plated wire. 

• Pellet models with heavy-gauge, welded steel construction withstand frequent use.

Best Propane Smokers

Propane smokers also known as Gas smokers use gas-fueled flame to ignite wood chips or chunks for smoking. This provides consistent, low-maintenance heat.

Pros of Propane Smokers – Benefits are temperature precision and set-it-and-forget-it ease. 

Cons of Propane Smokers – In my opinion, the one and only drawback of gas smokers is less smoke penetration compared to charcoal.

I have done a detailed research to give you a complete buying guide of the best propane smokers , give it a read.

Best Entry-Level Smokers Under $200

Masterbuilt 20051311 GS30D 2-Door Propane Smoker  ($177) – Budget-friendly vertical smoker with 717 sq. inches of cooking space and a small side tray for wood chips. 

Smoke Hollow 38202G 38-Inch 2-Door Propane Gas Smoker  ($189) – Basic horizontal propane smoker with four adjustable chrome plated cooking grids providing 507 sq. inches of space.

Cuisinart COS-244 Vertical Propane Smoker  ($200) – Vertical smoker design with twist-lock door and panel. 504 sq. inches of cooking area and built-in thermometer.

Mid-Range $200 – $500 

PIT BOSS 77435 Vertical Lp Gas Smoker  ($329) –  I assure you, this is one of the best-rated propane smokers not only because of its specifications but warranty claim as well. 

Masterbuilt MB20051316 ThermoTemp Propane Smoker ($379)  – Insulated double-wall smoker ( with four smoking racks (981 sq. inches). Built-in temperature gauge and RF remote control makes it an outclass production of Masterbuilt.

Pit Boss 77425 2.5 Gas Smoker  ($249) – Spacious cabinet-style smoker with 2,500 sq. inches spread across 5 porcelain-coated racks with dial-in control. Stainless steel burners.

High-End $500+

Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24″ Propane Smoker ($1,379) – XL-sized best vertical gas smoker has an 18,000 BTU burner with a convenient, matchless snap-ignition and is capable of reaching temperatures as low as 150 degrees Fahrenheit all the way up to 500 degrees. 

Cookshack Fast Eddy’s PG500 Pellet Grill Smoker Oven  ($3,570) – High-end smoker with proprietary Smart Controls, upper and lower cooking grates for a total 1,440 sq. in.

PIT BOSS 71700FB Pellet Grill ($649) The easy to operate Digital Control Center dial-in control gives you complete control from 170 Fahrenheit to 600 Fahrenheit.

A worthy suggestion: I’d suggest you take a break from reading this blog, grab a cup of coffee, come back and have a look at this important information : Best Propane Smokers 2023.

Tips from my personal experience for choosing the right size and features when buying an electric smoker:

Size

• Consider how much food you’ll smoke at once. Many propane smokers range from 400 to 1,000+ square inches of cooking area. 

• Allow roughly 50-100 sq. in. per person so there’s room for large cuts of meat. Factor in desired grilling space too.

• Measure where the smoker will be used. Vertical cabinets need less space than horizontal barrel units. 

Temperature Control

• Look for built-in thermometers and dual adjustable dampers to better control interior temps.

• Insulated double-wall steel construction helps hold in smoke and heat for precision. 

• Multiple adjustable grilling racks allow you to fine tune placement relative to the propane flame.

Ease of Use

• Push button or dial ignitions make lighting the burner seamless.

• Side-mounted or bottom propane tanks offer more stability vs top-mounted tanks.

• Removable drive trays and water pans simplify cleanup. Tool hooks provide handy storage.

Durability 

• Porcelain coated grates and stainless steel exterior stand up well to weather.

• Avoid thin sheets of metal that warp. Look for 12+ gauge steel thickness.

• Welded joints prevent air leaks. Tight-fitting doors with gaskets seal in smoke.

Best Pellet Smokers 

Pellet smokers burn compressed wood pellets fed from a hopper into a burn pot. This heats and smokes the chamber. Pellet smokers come in two main styles: Horizontal and Vertical. 

Horizontal Pellet Smokers provide more cooking flexibility and enhanced smoke flavour, though they require ample patio or deck space. Their horizontally oriented design allows for simultaneous smoking and grilling. However, their greater size leads to increased fuel consumption. 

Vertical Pellet Smokers have a smaller footprint and use less fuel, making them more energy-efficient. Their compact size suits small patios and balconies. Though vertical smokers excel at low-and-slow smoking, their tight quarters limit capacity and grill function.

Which one to choose?

In choosing between horizontal and vertical smokers, weigh your space constraints, cooking needs, and fuel efficiency preferences. Horizontals permit smoking entire racks of ribs while grilling burgers above. But for vertical model’s compact size and energy savings come in handy.

Pros of Pellet Smokers – Plus points include precise digital temperature control and the ability to add smoke flavour from the pellets. 

Cons of Pellet Smokers – Downsides are high cost and reliance on electricity.

For those with a bit more budget, I’d suggest the following top brands, models, and price ranges of pellet smokers for beginners:

Pellet Smoker For Beginners Under $500

Z GRILLS ZPG-550B ($428) – mid-sized pellet grill with 550 sq. in. of cooking space and digital temperature controls. Stainless steel construction.

DAMNISS Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker 8-in-1 ($319) – entry-level pellet smoker with flame broiler. 456 sq. in. cooking surface. Good option for beginners. 

KingChii 2023 Upgrade Portable Wood Pellet ($329)  Grill capacity of 456 sq inches, and capacity for 12 burgers, 4 racks of ribs or 2 whole chickens.Temp adjustable from 180° to 450°F.

Note: You can find more options with a low price range in the same model.

Mid-Range $500 – $1,000

PIT BOSS 71700FB ($649) – The easy to operate Digital Control Center dial-in control gives you complete control from 170 Fahrenheit to 600 Fahrenheit.  It uses only all-natural cooking-grade wood pellets for fuel. NO gas, propane or charcoal. Built to last and designed to deliver immediate success.

Traeger Pro Series 34 ($699) – premium pellet grill with WiFi and app control. 884 sq. in. capacity and Super Smoke mode.

Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett ($885) – portable pellet smoker with thermal sensor and foldable legs. Open flame technology. It can run on 12V or 120AC so it’s perfect for home or camping, tail-gating, hunting, house-boating, music festivals or anywhere you can take it!

Z Grills 1000E ($849) – Versatility 8-in-1 Pellet Grill. The advanced auger system makes it possible to automatically feed pellets and maintain the temperature according to the dial you set. 20 lbs pellets can be used for 10 hours while staying on the smoke dial.

Premium Quality $1,000+ 

Memphis Grills Elite 39-inch ($6,899) – pro-style pellet smoker with direct grilling. Memphis Wood Fire Grills Elite Built-In with WiFi – 304 Stainless Steel Alloy. The best I’ve ever seen. It’s an oven, it’s a smoker, it’s a grill, it’s efficient, and easy to operate. It’s expensive, but the best quality is worth spending.

Traeger Ironwood 885 ($1,394) – next-gen pellet grill with Super Smoke mode and downdraft exhaust. 885 sq. in. of space. WiFi app control.

Tips from my personal experience for choosing the right size and features when buying an pellet smoker:

Size

• Consider the total cooking area needed based on typical group sizes you’ll smoke for. Sizes range from small 300 sq. in. up to 1,000+ sq. in. capacity.

• Account for large cuts like briskets and pork shoulders needing ample room. Allow 75-100 sq. in. per person.

• Measure placement area – smaller vertical units fit in more spaces versus large cabinet styles.

Temperature Range 

• Look for maximum temps of at least 450°F to allow searing and grilling versatility.

• Lower end temps around 180°F are ideal for cold smoking items like cheese or nuts.

• Digital controllers allow precise temp settings versus 3-position analog controllers.

Construction

• Heavy-gauge steel prevents warping and maintains consistent temps.

• Porcelain-coated grates resist corrosion and are easy to clean.

• Well-designed pellet dump boxes prevent jams that can disrupt smoking. 

Smart Features

• WiFi and app control lets you monitor from anywhere.

• Meat probes help monitor doneness of large cuts.

• Quick-clean systems like slide-out grease pans simplify upkeep.

Looking out for more options? Navigate to Best Vertical Pellet Smokers.

Smoker Maintenance and Care

When I first started barbecuing completely on my own, after each use, my smoker was literally awful. I barely remember when I gave my first smoker a deep clean.

Due to this very reason, the performance of my smoker was going down and I had to buy a new one (cheaper this time *winks*). I wish someone would have told me how important it is to look after your smoker’s maintenance and cleaning.

Don’t worry, you’ve got my back as I am here to guide you at each and every step of your aromatic BBQ journey!

Here are some tips for proper smoker safety, maintenance and care:

• Clean out ashes and grease after each use. Empty ash pans regularly to prevent buildup. Use a brush and warm soapy water to scrub grates.

• Apply a light coating of cooking oil to the grates after cleaning to prevent rusting. Use oven cleaner to remove stubborn baked-on residue. 

• Inspect cooking grates and replace as needed. Chrome plating will wear over time. Stainless steel grates are more durable. 

• Check for cracks in the exterior. Touch up paint to prevent further rusting or oxidation. Replace gaskets around doors if leaks develop.

• Cover your smoker when not in use. Invest in a heavy duty smoker cover to protect from weather and keep pests out.

• For propane models, inspect hoses and fittings regularly for any blockage. Perform leak tests using soapy water and watch for bubbles.

• Clean out pellet hoppers regularly to prevent jamming from moisture-caused pellet breakdown. Store pellets in sealed containers.

• Wipe down the smoker interior to remove grease buildup. Degreaser and warm water work for stubborn residue.

Follow all manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and maintenance. A well-maintained smoker can provide years of delicious BBQ.

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR BEST BUDGET SMOKER

Budget conscious? Looking for the best budget smoker?

No matter your budget, there is a quality option for the best starter smokers to start your smoking journey right. I present to you the one hand picked for your budget and family BBQ needs. 

Bradley Smoker BTDS108P Digital 6 Rack – Our Champion!

Final words on Best Meat Smoker for Beginners

After reviewing the wide world of barbecue smokers, one thing is clear – once you go smoked, you’ll never see grilling the same again. While it takes patience and practice, the unparalleled flavor of perfectly smoked meat is its own reward.

Whether you opt for the hands-on control of charcoal, the set-it-and-forget-it ease of an electric or propane smoker, or the tech-forward precision of a pellet grill, finding the right best budget smoker for your needs ensures backyard success. Master the low and slow art, and your brisket, ribs, and pulled pork will have guests begging for your secret.

Don’t let the variety of best small smokers overwhelm you. Focus on your budget, expected usage, and size required to narrow down the options. Follow my smoker tips like sealing leaks or investing in a protective cover, and your equipment will deliver delicious barbecue for years of cookouts to come.

Mark my words, the smell of applewood-smoked bacon or the fall-off-the-bone tenderness of smoked beef short ribs are tempting rewards. So light that smoker and taste the barbecue bliss by following our smoking recipe. Just make sure to save a few ribs for your grateful guests!

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