Smoking is an art that takes time and patience to master, but with the right smoker, even beginners can produce delicious smoked meats and vegetables.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best smokers for beginners, considering factors like budget, size, fuel type, and ease of use.

We’ll also provide in-depth product comparisons, reviews, and tips to help you make an informed decision.

A Glance at Best Smokers for Beginners

BEST OVERALL Weber Smokey Mountain 18’’ Charcoal Smoker	BEST VALUE FOR MONEY Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill 22’’	BEST INNOVATIVE SMOKER Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Charcoal Smoker	BEST KAMADO Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Charcoal Smoker	BEST FOR CONVENIENCE Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 24 Pellet Grill & Smoker
PROS ✅ Easy to use ✅ Affordable ✅ Deep smoke flavor ✅ Compact size ✅ Easy to maintain	PROS ✅ Easy to use ✅ Great value ✅ Versatile ✅ Portable ✅ Durable	PROS ✅ Versatile ✅ Good Smoke Flavor ✅ Easy to Use	PROS ✅ Great heat efficiency ✅ Versatile ✅ Portable ✅ Affordable for a Kamado Smoker	PROS ✅ Easy to use ✅ Many fuel options ✅ Large capacity ✅ Convenient features ✅ Durable
CONS ❌Temperature control required ❌Thermometer issues ❌Flimsy door	CONS ❌ Temperature control required ❌ Limited cooking capacity ❌ Flimsy wheels	CONS  ❌ Higher price point  ❌ Possible technical issues  ❌ Assembly may be time-consuming	CONS ❌ Temperature control required ❌ Possible rust issues ❌ Relatively heavy	CONS ❌ Higher price point ❌ Small smoke box size
VIEW ON AMAZON	VIEW ON AMAZON	VIEW ON AMAZON	VIEW ON AMAZON	VIEW ON AMAZON

Top Beginner Smokers in Details

1. BEST OVERALL – Weber Smokey Mountain 18’’ Charcoal Smoker

Best For: Budget-minded traditionalists who value smoky flavor and are willing to learn temperature control techniques.

2. BEST VALUE FOR MONEY – Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill 22’’

The Weber Kettle Grill is another classic option. It is originally a grill, but it can be transformed into a great smoker with a smoking kit. While it requires practice for temperature control like other charcoal smokers, the affordability, durability, and iconic smoky flavor make it a popular choice for beginners.

Best For: Those who love deep smoky flavor and are looking for something simple, affordable but also versatile.

3. BEST INNOVATIVE SMOKER – Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Charcoal Smoker

Craving versatility without sacrificing convenience? Look no further than the Masterbuilt Gravity Series. This innovative smoker combines the ease of a pellet feeder with the bold smoke flavor of charcoal.

Simply add wood pellets to the hopper, and the smoker automatically feeds them into the firebox. The digital control maintains consistent temperatures throughout the cooking session.

Best For: Convenience seekers who value smoky flavor, versatility, and are willing to invest in a smoker that simplifies the process.

4. BEST KAMADO – Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Charcoal Smoker

This budget-friendly option offers many of the benefits of a traditional kamado smoker, including excellent heat retention and versatility for smoking, grilling, and even baking.

The Triple Walled Steel Body ensure consistent temperatures and efficient fuel use, and the compact design makes it a great choice for those with limited space.

Best For: Budget-minded grillers who want to explore the advantages of kamado-style smoking without the high price tag. Ideal for those with limited space who appreciate versatility in their smoker.

5. BEST FOR CONVENIENCE – Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 24 Pellet Smoker

For busy individuals who prioritize convenience and consistent results, the Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 24 Pellet Smoker is a solid option.

This electric smoker utilizes wood pellets for fuel and electricity to run the control board. The digital controls offer a user-friendly “set-and-forget” operation. Simply set the desired temperature and let the smoker do the work.

This pellet smoker has a higher price point for a reason: the digital controls ensure precise temperature control, while the durable construction promises years of reliable smoking.

Best For: Busy individuals who prioritize convenience and consistent results. Great for those who appreciate precise temperature control and a user-friendly experience.

6. Honorable Mention #1 – Masterbuilt 30 Digital Electric Smoker

The Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker is a user-friendly electric smoker ideal for beginners who value convenience and affordability. This smoker boasts a digital control panel for setting and monitoring temperatures, making it a great option for those who prefer a “set-and-forget” approach to smoking.

Best For:

• Beginner smokers who prioritize convenience and ease of use
• Budget-conscious individuals seeking an affordable entry point into the world of smoking
• Those who prefer a “set-and-forget” approach to smoking
• People with limited space who have access to a nearby electrical outlet

7. Honorable Mention #2 – Pit Barrel Cooker 18.5″ Drum Smoker

The Pit Barrel Cooker (PBC) 18.5″ Drum Smoker embraces traditional smoking experience with a loyal following. This vertical drum smoker is known for its excellent heat retention and fuel efficiency. However, it requires a bit more practice for temperature control compared to electric smokers.

Best For: Those who enjoy a more traditional smoking experience and are willing to invest time in learning temperature control techniques.

How to Choose a Smoker for a Beginner

Understanding Smoker Type

Each smoker variety offers unique pros and cons. By understanding the different types and their features, you can find the smoker that best suits your needs and tastes.

4 Main Smoker Types Based on Fuel Source:

Electric Smokers: They operate with an electric heating element to produce smoke from wood chips. They typically feature digital controls for precise temperature settings, making them ideal for beginners who prefer a “set-and-forget” approach.

Best electric smoker for beginners: Masterbuilt 30 Digital Electric Smoker | Bradley Smoker Original

Pellet Smokers: Pellet smokers are another convenient option that offer a good balance of ease of use and smoky flavor. They utilize wood pellets as fuel, feeding them automatically from a hopper into a firebox. Pellet smokers often boast digital controls for temperature control and a variety of smoke settings. While pellets smokers are one of the easiest for beginners, they may require a slightly higher investment upfront.

Best pellet smoker for beginners: Camp Chef Woodwind Pro (mentioned above) | Traeger Grills Pro Series 22

Charcoal Smokers: For traditionalists who crave the bold, smoky flavor that charcoal imparts, charcoal smokers are the way to go. These smokers require a bit more practice for temperature control compared to electric or pellet smokers, but the reward is a deep, rich smokiness that many enthusiasts adore.

Best charcoal smoker for beginners: Weber Smokey Mountain | Weber Kettle | Masterbuilt Gravity | Char-Griller Akorn Kamado (all mentioned above) | Kamado Joe Classic Joe Charcoal Grill & Smoker

Gas Smokers: Gas smokers use propane or natural gas as the heat source and wood for smoke flavor. Gas smokers offer a convenient option for those who prefer the ease of using natural gas or propane. While they are not as common as other smoker types, gas smokers can still produce delicious smoked food. However, some enthusiasts find the smoke flavor from gas to be less pronounced compared to charcoal or wood.

Best gas smoker for beginners: Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24" | Cuisinart Vertical Propane Smoker | Broil King 923614 Vertical Propane Smoker

Other smoker types based on design

• Gravity Fed Charcoal Smokers:
  • These innovative smokers combine the convenience of pellet smokers with the bold smoke flavor of charcoal. They utilize a hopper that feeds charcoal and wood chips automatically, offering a user-friendly and versatile smoking experience.
  • Recommendations: Masterbuilt Gravity Series Charcoal Smoker

• Bullet Smokers:
  • A bullet smoker are a popular choice for both beginners and seasoned barbecue enthusiasts.
  • They are called ‘bullet’ smokers due to their distinctive shape, resembling a bullet standing upright. These smokers have a small footprint, making them ideal for people with limited space.
  • Recommendations: Weber Smokey Mountain Charcoal Smoker

• Drum smokers:
  • Drum smokers is gaining popularity for their simplicity and effectiveness in smoking meats.
  • They are typically made from 55-gallon steel drums.
  • Known for their ability to produce consistent, high-quality smoked foods.
  • Excellent heat retention but temperature control can be tricky.
  • Recommendations: Pit Barrel Cooker, Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco Smoker

• Kettle Smokers:
  • These versatile smokers are based on the classic kettle grill design.
  • Primarily used for grilling, they can be transformed into smokers with the addition of a smoker box.
  • Great option for grillers who want to explore smoking without investing in a separate smoker.
  • Recommendations: Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill

• Kamado Smokers:
  • These egg-shaped smokers typically utilize thick ceramic walls for exceptional heat retention and fuel efficiency.
  • Offer excellent versatility for smoking, grilling, baking, and even searing.
  • Tend to be heavier and more expensive than other smoker types.
  • Recommendations: Char-Griller Akorn Kamado, Big Green Egg

• Drum smokers:
  • Consist of a firebox connected to a separate smoking chamber.
  • Produce consistent low and slow temperatures, ideal for large cuts of meat.
  • Require more practice for temperature control.
  • Can be bulkier than other smoker types.
  • Recommendations: Oklahoma Joe’s Highland, Yoder Loaded Wichita

• Offset smokers
  • Have two chambers: a horizontal cooking chamber and a firebox.
  • The firebox generates heat and smoke, which cook the food indirectly in the cooking chamber.
  • Can handle large cuts of meat or multiple racks of ribs.
  • Mastering temperature control and smoke management may take some practice.
  • Recommendations: Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Reverse Flow Smoker, Dyna-Glo DGO1890BDC-D Wide Body Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker, Broil King 500 Offset Smoker.

What’s the Best Smoker for Beginners?

Now that you’ve been introduced to different smoker types and models, it’s time to delve into the factors that will influence your final decision.

Remember, there’s no single “best” smoker – the ideal choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors as you narrow down your options

• Budget:
  • Smokers range in price from affordable charcoal options to feature-rich electric or pellet smokers
  • Electric and charcoal smokers are generally the most affordable.
  • Pellet Smokers provide ease of use but at a higher initial cost.
  • A lower budget may mean compromising on quality and features. It’s wise to list your must-haves to find the best smoker within your means.
  • Remember to account for both the purchase price and the recurring costs of fuel like charcoal or pellets in your budgeting.

• Time and Effort Commitment:
  • Consider how much time you’re willing to invest in the smoking process. Are you looking for convenience or a hands-on experience?
  • Electric and pellet smokers are designed for convenience, offering a “set-and-forget” system that’s ideal for those with busy lifestyles.
  • On the other hand, charcoal smokers demand more attention for temperature management, yet they offer more authentic barbecue experience.

• Smoke Flavor Preference:
  • How much do you value smoke flavor?
  • If you want deep, authentic smoke flavor, charcoal smoker is generally the way to go.
  • Electric, gas and pellet smokers normally produce gentler smoke than charcoal. However, some models have added innovative features to enhance smoke flavor.

• Space and Portability:
  • Do you have a specific outdoor area for smoking or do you need a compact unit for a balcony?
  • For those with limited space, there are compact smoker options available such as electric smokers.
  • If you need to move the smoker around, consider the weight and wheels.

• Cooking Capacity:
  • How much food do you plan to smoke at once? Larger smokers can accommodate bigger cuts of meat, while smaller smokers are ideal for smaller batches or those with limited space.
  • The rule of thumb here is to select a smoker that’s a size larger than you think you’ll need, as long as you have enough room for it.

• Temperature Range & Cooking Technique:
  • Consider the temperature range you need for your desired cooking techniques.
  • Some smokers excel at low and slow smoking, while others can handle a wider temperature range.

• Versatility:
  • Do you want a smoker solely for smoking, or do you desire a multi-functional option that can also grill, sear, or bake?
  • Some smokers offer greater versatility than others. For example, kettle and kamado smokers can be used for grilling and searing in addition to smoking.

• Types of Meat You’ll Be Cooking:
  • Different smoker types are better suited for specific types of meat.
  • For example, low and slow smoking of brisket or pork shoulder is ideal with offset smokers, while fish and vegetables might fare well in a smoker with more precise temperature control.

• Material and Build Quality:
  • Material and build quality are crucial in choosing a smoker as they affect its durability, heat management, and overall performance. High-quality materials ensure better cooking results and longer lifespan, making it a worthwhile investment.

• Special Features:
  • Certain smokers are equipped with enhanced capabilities such as Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity, along with easy-to-clean components like detachable ash pans or grease trays.
  • While these additions can enhance your smoking experience, they also add to the expense. It’s essential to concentrate on your fundamental requirements. Evaluate which features you find essential and allocate your priorities based on that.

• Warranty and Customer Service
  • A good warranty means you’re covered if your smoker breaks, and good customer service helps solve any problems quickly. Both are important for a worry-free purchase.

To make it easier for you, below is a table that breaks down these key points for four common smoker types:

Tips for Beginners

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the best type of smoker for a beginner?

• The best type for beginners is usually one that’s easy to use and maintain, like electric or pellet smokers. They offer easier temperature control and are generally more user-friendly.

2. How much should I spend on my first smoker?

• It’s best to start with something affordable. You don’t need to spend a lot to get a good quality smoker that’s suitable for beginners.

3. What size smoker do I need?

• Consider how many people you’ll typically be cooking for. If it’s just for family, a smaller smoker might be enough. For larger gatherings, you’ll need a smoker with more capacity.

4. Are there smokers that are easier to clean?

• Yes, some smokers come with features like removable ash pans or grease trays that make cleaning simpler. Look for models that prioritize ease of cleaning.

5. What features should I look for in a smoker?

• As a beginner, focus on essential features like stable temperature control and ease of use. Advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity are nice but not necessary to start with.

Final Thoughts

Choosing your first smoker is just the beginning of your thrilling adventure into smoking. We hope this guide here is useful in helping you navigate the world of smokers with confidence. Keep in mind, the best smoker for you is one that suits your requirements while allowing you to learn and grow in the art of smoking.

Related search: Best beginner smoker, best smoker under 500, good offset smokers, best starter smoker, smoker for beginner