Baccos Ristorante

Looking to master smoky, flavorful barbecue without spending a fortune? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re a backyard beginner or a grill master on a budget, this guide to the best smokers for every budget is packed with top-rated, affordable options that deliver mouth-watering results.

We’ve tested and reviewed a range of smokers—from simple charcoal models under $200 to digital pellet grills with premium features. Whether you want something hands-off or a traditional smoker to practice the art, we’ve got something for you. Let’s dive into the top-rated smokers across various price points and provide expert tips to help you choose and get the most out of your perfect smoker.

Our Top Picks

•  Best Smoker Under $800: Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 Digital
•  Best Smoker Under $500: Weber 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker
• Best Smoker Under $300: EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker, Outdoor Smoker
• Best Smoker Under $200: Masterbuilt 30-inch Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker
• Best Smoker Under $100: Masterbuilt 20060416 Charcoal Bullet Smoker

1. Best Smoker Under 500: Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 Digital Charcoal Grill

Masterbuilt MB20041220 400-Square-Inch Digital Charcoal Grill/Smoker The 1050 Series of Gravity The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 Digital Charcoal Grill + Smoker is capable of grilling, searing, baking, roasting, and smoking, among many other culinary ways. Whether you’re using an app on your phone or the accompanying digital control panel, the DigitalFan will maintain the precise temperature you specify.

You’ll never have to worry about the fire going out since the GravityFed charcoal hopper can hold enough charcoal for up to 8 hours. The combined surface area of the reversible smoke + sear cast-iron grates and the FoldAway warming + smoking racks is a whopping 1050 square inches. Learn how to grill or smoke like an expert with a Masterbuilt charcoal BBQ or smoker.

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Product information

• Brand    Masterbuilt
• Outer Material    Stainless, Stainless Steel, Steel
• Item Weight: 203 Pounds
• Inner Material: Stainless Steel
• Dimensions: 33.07 x 61.02 x 52.17 inches
• Capacity: 1,050 square inches
• Fuel Type: Charcoal / Wood
• Bluetooth: Yes
• WiFi: Yes

What we like:

• DigitalFan controls temperature precisely.
• Reaches 225°F in 10 minutes or 700°F in 15 minutes.
• A digital control panel or a WiFi/Bluetooth smart device regulates temperature and cook time.
• Gravity-fed hopper holds 10 lbs. of lump charcoal or 16 lbs. of briquettes for 8 hours.
• Fold-out cable storage behind the side shelf protects the power supply.
• A folding stainless steel shelf and a side shelf for prep space

What we don’t like:

• The Built-in app has a few bugs

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2. Best Smoker Under $500: Weber 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker

Food roasted over charcoal is cheap and excellent. Weber’s 18-inch Smokey Mountain Cooker Charcoal Smoker is ideal for novices because of its sturdy build. It keeps items heated for hours without assistance. I started a brisket at midnight and woke up to 225 degrees. The smoker is available in 14, 18, and 22 inches. The bullet form saves space. Heat and fuel consumption are higher with the 22″. If you like fire-related outdoor activities, the Smoky Mountains make instruction simple and entertaining.

Product information

• Brand    Weber
• Power Source    Charcoal
• Outer Material: Alloy Steel
• Item Weight    39.1 Pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH    21 x 19 x 41 inches
• Inner Material: Stainless Steel
• Fuel Type    Charcoal
• Product Dimensions    19″D x 21″W x 41″H
• Department of Outdoor Living
• Manufacturer    Weber

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What we like:

• The water smoker design lets beginners customize the temperature. Between the embers and cooking grates is the water basin. Heat sinks and humidity regulate smoke chamber temperatures.
• It can carry a whole turkey and ham. Weights 39.1 lbs.
• Two 18-1/2-inch porcelain-enameled steel nickel-plated cooking grates are included in this smoker.
• Featuring a heat-resistant nylon handle, water pan, thermometer, and independent bowl and lid vents.
• Enhancements via third parties. Many ingenious WSM mods and enhancements exist.
• With the Weber Smokey Mountain charcoal smoker, you can recreate that smokehouse excursion in your backyard.

What we don’t like:

• Smokey Mountain’s door is flimsy and spills smoke

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3. Best Smoker Under $200: Masterbuilt 20060416 Charcoal Bullet Smoker

Brief description of the item:

Charcoal Bullet Smoker by Masterbuilt. Masterbuilt charcoal smokers are great for outdoor cooking situations, including camping, tailgating, and backyard barbecues. Smoking at home or on the road is simplified with Masterbuilt products. Since this temperature gauge doesn’t last very long, you should get a better one. The Weber Smoky Mountains will also need to be upgraded.

This basic and simple smoker is ideal. The items smoked with this bullet smoker have a robust smoky taste. The use of charcoal and smoke flavoring provides excellent results. When smoking, adding charcoal or wood to the front chamber is a breeze. But it’s not all roses. More help is needed for those who smoke bullets.

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Product information

• Brand    Masterbuilt
• Model Name: Charcoal Bullet Smoker
• Outer Material: Stainless Steel
• Power Source    Charcoal
• Dimensions: 24 x 23 x 48.5 inches
• Capacity: 395 square inches
• Fuel Type: Charcoal / Wood
• Item Weight    15.29 Pounds
• Item Dimensions LxWxH    19.13 x 21.65 x 31.5 inches
• Inner Material: Stainless Steel

What we like:

• Easy to assemble
• Front-access door makes adding charcoal easy
• 395.4 sq. inches of cooking space
• Two porcelain-coated smoking racks
• Built-in lid thermometer provides an accurate temperature reading

What we don’t like:

• Need to watch the smoker to ensure the temperature is constantly

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4. Best Smoker Under $200: Masterbuilt 30-inch Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker

Elevate your outdoor cooking with the Masterbuilt 30-inch Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker. Featuring analog temperature control, effortlessly set your smoking temperature up to 275°F for precision cooking. With 535 cooking square inches, it accommodates up to 3 chickens, 2 turkeys, or 3 racks of ribs, making it perfect for gatherings.

Key Features:

• 535 sq. in. vertical cooking space
• Analog dial for consistent temp control
• Water bowl + wood chip tray
• Rear grease tray for easy cleanup

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Pros:

• Spacious vertical design for large meals
• Removable wood chip tray for customizable smoky flavors
• Water bowl ensures juicy, tender meats
• Easy cleanup with a removable rear grease tray

Cons:

• Limited portability due to size

Why is it great? This smoker combines functionality and performance, perfect for both beginners and seasoned grillers. Transform your backyard into a gourmet smokehouse—get your Masterbuilt Smoker today and savor the rich flavors of perfectly smoked meats!

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5. Best Smoker Under $300: EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker, Outdoor Smoker 

Elevate your backyard BBQ with the EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker, built for both flavor and functionality. This large-capacity smoker offers 725 sq. in. of cooking space and includes 4 removable chrome racks, perfect for meats, vegetables, or party-size meals. The side wood chip loader keeps the smoke flowing for 2–3 hours without heat loss, locking in rich, authentic flavor.

An integrated meat thermometer and digital control panel ensure precision, while the glass door and internal light let you monitor your food without opening the smoker. Its 800W heating tube delivers consistent heat for tender, juicy results.

✅ Key Features:

• 725 sq. in space, 4 racks
• Side chip loader & built-in thermometer
• Glass door & interior light
• Digital temp/time control

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👍 Pros:

• Huge cooking area
• No need to open door mid-smoke
• Sleek and modern design

👎 Cons:

• Requires a power outlet
• Racks can get tight with larger cuts

Why It’s Great: This smoker blends smart design with serious capacity—perfect for parties, families, or outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

👉 Ready to level up your BBQ game? Get the EAST OAK 30″ Smoker today!

Note from the editor: As of June 15, 2025, I have replaced out-of-stock items with brand-new, highly regarded, best-selling alternatives. Making the reviews more user-friendly and specific to our customers’ needs was our primary objective when we revised them.

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How to Use a Smoker: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose the Right Smoker

There are several types:

• Electric Smokers (easy to use, ideal for beginners)
• Charcoal Smokers (offers rich smoky flavor)
• Propane Smokers (convenient and quick to heat up)
• Pellet Smokers (automated temperature control, wood flavor)

2. Prep Your Smoker

Clean the grates and internal surfaces if they’ve been used before.

Add fuel:

• Charcoal or wood chips for traditional smokers.
• Wood pellets for pellet grills.
• Plug it in for electric smokers.

Preheat: Bring the smoker up to your desired cooking temperature (usually 225°F to 250°F).

3. Soak the Wood Chips (Optional)

If you’re using wood chips, soaking them for 30–60 minutes can help them smolder and create more smoke, rather than burning quickly.

4. Add Water to the Pan

Most smokers have a water pan. Fill it to help regulate temperature and add moisture to the cooking chamber.

5. Season and Prep the Meat

• Apply a dry rub or marinade in advance.
• Let it come to room temperature before placing in the smoker.

6. Place the Meat in the Smoker

• Position it on the grates away from direct heat (indirect cooking).
• Insert a meat thermometer for accuracy.

7. Maintain Temperature and Smoke

• Keep the smoker lid closed to maintain a steady temperature and smoke flow.
• Replenish charcoal, wood, or water as needed.

8. Cook Low and Slow

Smoking takes time—allow several hours, depending on the cut:

• Ribs: ~5-6 hours
• Brisket: ~10-12 hours
• Chicken: ~3-4 hours

9. Check Internal Temperature

Use a meat thermometer:

• Chicken: 165°F
• Pork: 190–205°F (for pulled pork)
• Brisket: 195–205°F

10. Let it Rest

After smoking, wrap the meat in foil and let it rest for 20–30 minutes to retain juices.

Here are some frequently asked questions about smokers for every budget:

1. What types of smokers are available?

• Charcoal Smokers: Affordable and offer great flavor but require more attention.
• Electric Smokers: Easy to use, great for beginners, and generally more expensive.
• Gas Smokers: Convenient and quick, with a moderate price range.
• Pellet Smokers: Versatile and offer excellent flavor, typically in the mid to high price range.

2. What is a good budget option for beginners?

• Look for basic charcoal or electric smokers under $200. Brands like Weber and Masterbuilt often offer reliable models.

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

• Temperature Control: Digital controls or built-in thermometers for better monitoring.
• Size: Consider how much food you plan to smoke at once.
• Material Quality: Look for durable materials that retain heat well.

4. Are there any high-end smokers worth the investment?

• Yes, brands like Traeger and Big Green Egg offer premium models that provide excellent performance and durability, ranging from $800 to $2000.

5. How do I maintain my smoker?

• Regularly clean the grates, check for rust, and ensure proper sealing to maintain efficiency.

6. Can I smoke food indoors?

• Electric smokers can be used indoors, but always ensure proper ventilation. Charcoal and gas smokers should be used outdoors.

7. What’s the best smoker for small spaces?

• Compact electric smokers or portable pellet smokers are ideal for small patios or balconies.

8. How do I choose the right fuel type?

• Consider convenience and flavor. Charcoal offers a traditional smoky flavor, while pellets provide versatility and ease.

9. Are there any safety tips for using a smoker?

• Always supervise the smoker, keep it on a stable surface, and ensure proper ventilation, especially with gas and charcoal models.

Feel free to ask if you have more specific questions or need recommendations!

Finding the best smokers for every budget doesn’t mean settling for poor performance. We’ve tested a wide range of models—from budget-friendly options to premium picks—and learned the hard way which smokers are worth your money and which ones just don’t live up to the hype.

We’ve covered less common but no less effective smoker kinds, as well as fuel options that are kind to the environment and for novices. You can discover the perfect smoker to take your BBQ to the next level, no matter your budget or degree of expertise. We’d love to hear about the smoking device you’ve chosen! Please comment below, sharing which of our recommended first-time smokers you decided on.

Ultimately, we hope our reviews will help you make an informed choice when choosing smokers for your next gathering. Baccosristorante is dedicated to helping you find quality equipment at affordable prices. We appreciate your trust in us and invite you to contact us at any time with any questions or comments. Enjoy!