Best Electric Smoker Under 200

An electric smoker is a device that uses electricity to produce heat and smoke, which in turn cooks the food being smoked.

With an electrical smoker, there is no need to light a wood or charcoal fire – it does all of its cooking with electricity.

In this article, we will review some of the best electric smokers under 200 for your consideration. The list is based on research and reviews from actual users, which you will see in the pros and cons section.

In general, an electric smoker is a great solution for someone who enjoys outdoor cooking but does not want to mess with lighting a fire or charcoal. Consistent heat and smoke mean that you can get great results every time!

Some of the top electric smokers under $200

Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker Review

This smoker has an insulated body to keep heat in and allow for even cooking, as well as four chrome-coated racks that can hold up to 2 turkeys, 4 pork butts, 4 racks of ribs, and 6 chickens.

With digital panel controls, you can easily set the on/off switch, cooking temperature, and time.

The thermostat-temperature control ensures that the smoker will stay at the desired temperature, while the max temperature setting of 275ᵒ F means that this smoker can handle any dish you want to smoke.

The Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker is the perfect smoker for both beginner and pro smokers alike.

This smoker comes with a side wood chip loading system, so you can easily add more flavor to your food. The dimensions of this smoker are 20.47 x 19.88 x 33.26 inches, so it’s easy to store and transport.

Masterbuilt 20070210 Electric Analog Smoker Review

The Masterbuilt 20070210 Electric Analog Smoker is perfect for the at-home pitmaster. This smoker has 548 sq. inches of cooking space, meaning you can cook plenty of food at once.

The three chrome-coated racks provide plenty of space, and the dual-wall insulation ensures your food remains hot and juicy.

With 1500-watt heating element and variable thermostat temperature control, you can easily regulate the heat to ensure your food smokes just right.

The built-in thermometer means you’ll never have to guess what’s going on inside your smoker, so you can focus on enjoying delicious smoked food!

With this smoker, you can indulge in your favorite smoked foods anytime, anywhere.

The temperature gauge on the door ensures that your food is cooked to perfection every time, while the front-loading wood chips tray lets you customize your smoking experience. Plus, the removable water and drip pan make cleanup a breeze.

Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker Review

The Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker is the perfect way to enjoy smoked meats and veggies.

With three removable racks, this smoker offers ample cooking space, while the built-in thermometer ensures your food is cooked perfectly every time.

The 1500-watt heating element ensures your food is smoked evenly and quickly, while the chrome spring door handle provides easy access to your food.

This smoker is user-friendly and easy to use, with dishwasher-safe racks. With its removable water pan and wood chip tray, it’s extremely easy to use and clean.

The Cuisinart COS-330 electric smoker is perfect for casual or first-time smokers. It’s lightweight and easy to move, making it perfect for any outdoor gathering.

Plus, with a warranty of 3 years, you can be sure that your smoker will last for years to come.

Smokehouse Products Little Chief Electric Smoker Review

The Little Chief Electric Smoker from Smokehouse Products is perfect for anyone who wants to start smoking meat or fish at home.

This smoker is made of durable, embossed aluminum and requires no assembly – just set it up and start smoking!

The easy-slide chrome-plated grills make adding meat or fish a breeze, and the consistent low-temperature setting ensures perfectly smoked food every time.

This smoker also has a 250W heating element for approximately 165 F, making it perfect for smoking any kind of meat or fish.

This smoker is perfect for the outdoorsman or woman who wants to create maximum capacity flavor.

The included recipe booklet provides tons of delicious smoked recipes, and the hickory flavor wood fuel adds a delicious smoky flavor to your food.

The fuel pan is designed to hold more fuel, so your food can be smoked to perfection.

The drip pan is also dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, this smoker comes with a 2-year limited warranty and UL and CUL certifications.

Masterbuilt 20070910 Electric Digital Smoker Review

This smoker is jam-packed with features to make smoking your favorite foods easier than ever.

The 730 sq. inches of cooking space means you can cook up to 2 whole turkeys, 6 whole chickens, 4 racks of ribs, or 4 pork shoulders at once.

The fully insulated body helps keep the heat in, while the digital temperature and timer controls let you set it and forget it.

Plus, the thermostat temperature control from 100 to 275 degrees F means you can customize your smoking experience however you like.

With a smoke vent, side loading wood chips, removable drip pan, and top air damper, this smoker is ideal for both beginners and experienced smokers alike.

Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker Review

If you’re looking to add a smokey flavor to your food, the Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker is perfect for you!

With 544 square inches of cooking space, this smoker can accommodate a large variety of meats.

The 1,000-watt electric element ensures that your food cooks evenly and quickly. And thanks to the double-wall insulated construction and dual exhaust ports, your food will stay smoking hot while avoiding any unpleasant smoke in your kitchen.

This smoker is perfect for the beginner or occasional smoker. With three cooking grates, you’ll have plenty of space to cook your food. The chrome-plated cooking grates are easy to wash and can be dried quickly.

Keep an eye on your food with the door-mounted temperature gauge. Dual latches keep the door sealed shut so that your smoke doesn’t escape.

The wood chip tray and water tray can be accessed from the inner front, making it easy to refill them without having to open the whole smoker.

The Grease Cup is accessible from the outer front, making it easy to clean up any messes you make.

Smokehouse Products Big Chief Electric Smoker Review

The Big Chief Electric Smoker is perfect for smoking up to 50 pounds of meat or fish.

This smoker is easy to use, with a quick startup and easy setup. You’ll love the premium smoke ventilation, circulation, and dehydration system, ensuring your food comes out perfectly smoked every time.

Plus, with a 450W heating element, you’ll be able to get your smoker started up in no time.

This electric smoker comes with a flavor pan that adds delicious smoky flavor to your food. It’s also UL & CUL certified, so you know it’s safe. The small size of the smoker makes it easy to store when not in use.

Buying Guide for Best Electric Smoker Under 200

Price

Like with any product, price is an important factor in choosing what you want to buy. You generally get what you pay for when it comes to electric smokers, which means that the more expensive ones will come with a higher level of durability and reliability than cheaper models.

The best smoker for your needs should be one that fits into your budget but still has all of the features you want to see.

Power and Heat

The power that a smoker has can affect how fast it cooks your food, as well as how hot it gets inside.

The higher the wattage, the faster the cooking time will be. Typically speaking, an electric smoker with at least 600 watts is preferable to prevent food from taking too long to cook. The temperature inside the smoker should also be considered, as higher temperatures are usually preferred for most meats.

Size

Electric smokers are generally not very big, but that will often depend on the model you purchase.

While some electric smokers can accommodate large amounts of meat at once, others may only hold 4-5 slabs of ribs or 6-7 whole chickens.

The best smoker for your needs should be one that is big enough to accommodate all of the foods you want to prepare but small enough, so it doesn’t take up too much space in your kitchen or living room.

Durability

When looking at electric smokers, you should consider how durable all of the components are. This includes things like how well the metal was insulated, what type of materials were used for the racks and handles, etc.

Since electric smokers can get very hot while cooking foods, it’s helpful if they also insulate very well to prevent any accidents from occurring.

Customer Service

A lot of manufacturers will offer some sort of warranty or return policy, but this will often vary from smoker to smoker.

The most reliable brands with the best customer service are those that offer a replacement part even if it was your fault that something happened to begin with, not just free replacements for manufacturer defects.

Included Wood Chip Tray/Door

All of the electric smokers we reviewed came with some sort of area where you can add wood chips to enhance the flavor of your meats.

However, most models come with a wood chip tray that is fixed in place and cannot be opened easily. This is not ideal, especially if you want to check on the type of meat you are cooking without letting out all of the heat from inside.

In that case, you should consider electric smokers that come with a door that can be easily flipped open to check on the meat, as these provide more convenience for those who use them.

Benefits of Using an Electric Smoker

1) Provide consistent heat – Electric smokers maintain a constant temperature throughout the cooking process, which ensures even cooking and prevents burnt meat. The insulation of an electric smoker removes outside variables such as wind and cold air, allowing you to cook delicious meals every time.

2) Temperature Control – An electric smoker allows you to control the temperature, which is crucial for smoking meat. You can set the smoker to a low temperature and let it smoke for hours, or you can set it to a high temperature and cook the meat quickly.

3) Use less fuel – While electric smokers use electricity as their main source of power, they also have an insulated wall that reduces heat lost during cooking. This means that the smoker uses much less electricity than other types of smokers. Electric smokers save energy and help you conserve fuel.

4) Allow for flexible cooking times – Electric smokers allow you to set the desired cooking time, so if you are running late or if you want your meat to be extra tender, you can simply change the cooking time without worrying about ruining your meal.

5) Help reduce food-borne bacteria – Electric smokers have a thermostat that helps prevent overheating the meats. This helps retain natural juices in your meat while also preventing the growth of bacteria.

6) Provide moist meat – Since an electric smoker cooks at lower temperatures, it can help prevent dryness in your meats. The steam that is generated during the cooking process helps keep the moisture locked in, giving you juicy meat every time.

7) Cook food evenly – Electric smokers provide consistent heat across the entire cooking area, so your meat will be cooked evenly. This helps you avoid undercooked or overcooked meats that are burnt on the outside and raw on the inside.

8) Reduce smoke in your home – Since an electric smoker doesn’t generate smoke, there is little to no smoke residue in your home. This means that you won’t have to spend hours cleaning your kitchen after smoking meat.

9) Are easy to use – Electric smokers are simple to operate and don’t require a lot of manual labor. You can simply set the desired temperature, put your food in the smoker, and let it cook.

10) Smokeless Indoor Grilling – Many people love grilling but don’t like the inconvenience of using charcoal or propane. Smoking your food indoors allows you to enjoy the taste of smoked food without having to worry about harsh weather conditions.

11) Are eco-friendly – Electric smokers use far less firewood, which helps prevent deforestation. Using an electric smoker is a great way to conserve the environment and protect the rainforest.

12) Are versatile – Electric smokers can smoke a variety of food, such as vegetables and fruits. You can also use the smoker for frying meat or slow cook your favorite recipes.

13) Portable – Electric smokers are quite portable. The electric heating element and cord take up very little room, making it easy to pack an electric smoker for camping or tailgating parties.

14) Safe to use – Compared to traditional wood or charcoal smokers, electric smokers are much safer to use. You don’t have to worry about a fire or getting burned by hot coal. All you need to do is plug the smoker and set the desired temperature.

15) Easier Cleanup – Electric smokers require little cleaning and maintenance, as they don’t produce much ash or smoke residue. The insulated wall of an electric smoker helps prevent heat from escaping and reduces the amount of ashes that fall off your meat while smoking.

16) Air Flow – Electric smokers have a better airflow pattern compared to other types of smokers, which ensures your meat is smoked perfectly every time. Traditional wood or charcoal burning smokers can produce uneven heat levels, which can lead to an inconsistent smoking experience.

17) Smoked Flavor – One of the best things about using an electric smoker is the smoked flavor that it imparts to the meat. The electric heating element and the smoke box work together to infuse a wonderful smoky flavor on the meat.

18) Affordable – Electric smokers are some of the most affordable smokers on the market. You can easily find a good-quality electric smoker for under $200. This is a fraction of the cost of other types of smokers, such as propane or charcoal smokers.

Tips on Smoking in an Electric Smoker

1. Smoking wood: Various woods such as hickory, applewood, and oak wood impart a good aroma and flavor to the food. Soak the chips in water before putting them into your electric smoker if you want to get rid of that smoky flavor and increase the humidity inside. The best place to put them would be on the top shelf where the heat is less and on the edges.

2. Temperature: A temperature of around 225 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for smoking meat. You can use a higher or lower temperature, but it would take longer to cook the food.

3. Time: The time required for smoking food depends on the type of smoker, the amount of food, the temperature, and the wood used. It can range from a few hours to a day or more.

4. Ventilation: Make sure that there is proper ventilation in your electric smoker, or the smoke will build up, and you will not be able to see or breathe. If there is no ventilation, the food will not be cooked properly, and it might even catch fire.

5. Using a water pan: Fill a water pan with water and place it on the bottom shelf of your electric smoker and place your meat on another shelf. The steam from the water will keep your food moist while adding to its flavor as the water evaporates.

6. Closing the door: Make sure that you close all the doors of your electric smoker when cooking. If it is open, your food will have a smoky flavor and take longer to cook.

7. Check the food often: Make sure to check the food often and rotate it so that it cooks evenly. You don’t want the edges to be overcooked while the center is still raw.

8. Basting: If you find that the food is drying out, spray it with apple juice or another liquid of your choice.

9. Fat dripping: When you are smoking with an electric smoker, you do not need any water or oil in the drip pan. The fat will automatically drip into it and keep your food moist as it cooks. This is different from smoking on a charcoal or gas grill, where the drippings burn and make your meat bitter.

10. Cleaning: Clean your electric smoker after every use to avoid any build-up of smoke or grease. Wipe it down with a damp cloth and then dry it. Do not use any harsh chemicals or abrasives as they might damage the surface.

11. Safety:

1. Make sure to keep a fire extinguisher and metal tongs within reach, just in case your electric smoker catches fire. Also, make sure to keep a first-aid kit nearby. You don’t want any accidents or injuries while cooking food.
2. If you have a wood chip tray on the bottom shelf, be careful not to touch it with your hands after you have opened the smoker door. The heat will be very high, and you might get burned. Use a pot holder or oven mitts to remove it.

Basic Guide to Maintain an Electric Smoker

It is important to know how to properly maintain an electric smoker so that it can provide you with years of smoking enjoyment. Here are some basic tips:

1. Keep the smoker clean – This is probably the most important thing you can do to keep your smoker in good condition. Make sure to clean the smoker after every smoking session. This will help to stop the build-up of old residue and make it easier for you to maintain your smoker in tip-top shape.

2. Keep your smoker seasoned – It is important that your electric smoker has a layer of seasoning on it before use. If you decide not to keep your smoker seasoned, foods may stick to the metal and create an unpleasant smoking experience.

3. Use the right wood – Different types of wood will produce different flavors when smoked. Make sure to use the right type of wood for the type of food you are smoking.

4. Keep your smoker at the right temperature – Smoking at the wrong temperature can not only affect the taste of your food but can also lead to the build-up of creosote, which can be harmful to your smoker. Make sure to keep your smoker at the correct temperature for the food you are smoking.

6. Use a smoker probe – A smoker probe will help you to accurately monitor the temperature of your smoker so that you can make any necessary adjustments.

7. Keep your smoker well ventilated – Make sure to keep your smoker well ventilated when smoking, or you may end up with an unpleasant smell around your house.

8. Keep an eye on the weather forecast – If you are planning to smoke in extreme weather conditions, make sure that your smoker can handle it first. You don’t want your smoker to break down when you need it most!

9. Store your smoker properly – Make sure that you store your smoker somewhere dry and well ventilated. This will help to prevent any rust or corrosion from occurring.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much food can the best electric smoker under $200 hold?

The amount of food that an electric smoker can hold will vary by model, but in general, it should be able to cook around 30-50 pounds at once.

There are rare exceptions where smokers have been able to accommodate even more than this, but they are typically very large and not suited for most kitchens.

What is the best smoker under $200?

The best electric smoker under 200 varies by individual needs, but in general, it is one that has all of the features you are looking for at a price that fits into your budget.

The more expensive smokers will often come with better insulation to provide faster cooking times, but less expensive electric smokers can also be just as effective if you are willing to wait a bit longer for your food.

How much electricity does the electric smoker use?

The amount of electricity that an electric smoker uses will vary by model, but most smokers consume around 800 watts of power when in use.

The heating element inside will draw a large amount of power, and this will add to the overall electricity consumption of your smoker.

This is why it is important to consider not only the price of your electric smoker but also how much it will end up costing you in terms of powering it regularly.

Is a smoker under 200 dollars worth buying?

Smokers that cost less than $200 will often provide satisfactory results and are excellent choices for those who are new to using electric smokers.

However, if you will be using it regularly in your house or for commercial purposes, then spending more may be beneficial due to the better insulation and design that can provide faster cooking times.

How to use an electric smoker?

Firstly, make sure the power cord is plugged in securely and check your thermometer (if you have one) to ensure that the temperature is at the appropriate level.

Next, place any kind of wood chips you want to use inside of the cooking area. Finally, add food inside and close the door to start smoking. It’s really that simple!

What is cheaper? Gas or electric smoker?

Gas smokers are typically much cheaper than electric ones due to the price of gas being significantly lower than electricity. However, they typically have smaller cooking areas and heat up more slowly, so there are pros and cons to each type.

Pellet smoker vs. electric smoker?

The two types of smokers have their own advantages and disadvantages, so there is no “best” smoker type for everyone. Which one you prefer will often depend on your personal tastes, the type of food you are cooking, how much money you want to spend, and how much effort you want to put into your cooking process.

How long does it take to smoke meat?

The actual time it takes to smoke meat will depend on the type of smoker you are using. Electric smokers, for instance, take much less time to properly cook meats than wood or pellet smokers do (about 4-8 hours).

How long does it take to smoke chicken?

Electric smokers should take between 4-8 hours to smoke chicken.

How long does it take to smoke ribs?

Ribs are one of the easiest meats to smoke and can usually be done in under six hours (depending on smoker type).

What is the best wood for smoking meat?

When choosing the best wood for your meat, you have to consider what type of flavor you are trying to achieve with your meats.

For example, hickory is the most common smoking wood because it is known for giving food a rich and distinctive taste, while maple works well in foods that already have strong flavors.

How do I know when my food is done cooking?

One of the downsides to electric smokers is that you can’t typically look at your food and tell if it’s done yet. For this reason, most smokers come with a built-in meat thermometer so you can check on the temperature of your meats without opening the smoker.

When checking for doneness, you should only be opening the lid of your electric smoker for short periods of time to prevent too much heat from escaping.

What is an element?

An electric element is what heats up the food inside of electric smokers, so it’s important to know which elements are used in the smokers you are considering.

Most electric smokers use a coil element that runs with alternating directions, while some models come with infrared elements that cook food by emitting waves of light.

The most notable differences between these are, those coil elements will require more maintenance and tend to get hotter when they’re on, while infrared elements will not need much maintenance and do not get as hot when on.

What safety precautions should I consider?

The most important safety precaution to take into account is that you should never leave your smoker unattended while it’s plugged in and turned on.

This is because an electrical fire could occur if the element gets too hot and starts a fire on the outside of your smoker.

You should also be aware that some larger electric smokers get very hot while they’re running, so you should always have a fire extinguisher nearby just in case.

How long does it take to cook something in a smoker?

This is one area where electric smokers shine. Because the element is controlled by an internal thermostat, there’s no need to adjust heat levels throughout the cooking process.

The only exceptions are when adding more wood chips or opening the door of your smoker for extended periods of time to check on how well your food is cooking.

Conclusion

In the end, the best electric smoker under 200 should be one that comes with all of the features and benefits that you need. The best smokers can vary from person to person, which is why we have put together a list of the top electric smokers under $200 for several different types of users. You can also check our article on Best Home Electric Smoker.

Electric smokers have a lot of great features that you can enjoy, but it’s important to keep in mind that no two units are the same.

Hopefully, this guide has been helpful in giving you an idea about what features are available on different models that are currently for sale. Thanks for reading!!