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Brand Comparison

Masterbuilt Electric Smoker Brand Review

We have thoroughly reviewed the Masterbuilt smoker range. Find out if this smoker brand is best for your cooking requirements.

by AndrewJHW

Smoking meats is a hobby, pastime, cooking method for family gatherings, and a competition. To do it right, you need the right smoker, and Masterbuilt has a lineup sure to meet your strict needs. Whether you want to put on a roast and cure bacon or try your hand at a brisket and pork shoulder, the right smoker will make all the difference. This review will look at the Masterbuilt lineup and help you decide which model is perfect for your needs.

In production for over 45 years, the Masterbuilt company is dedicated to excellence, forming lasting friendships with their customers and being innovators in their market. It is this type of dedication that shows in all of their products. Masterbuilt smokers are among the most popular because of their durability, customer service, and ease of use. The technology that they bring to the industry and their smokers shows in the finer details. You can see below some of these innovations and product enhancements that make Masterbuilt a smart choice.

Built-in Thermostats

Cooking temperatures are crucial to that perfect sear on your steak. Whether you want to produce a brisket with a smoke ring and love the slow and low method or want to char a pork chop for tonight’s dinner, you need a constant and precise temperature. Built-in thermostats do just that. While many built-in thermostats can be improved with a third-party add-on, the Masterbuilt thermostats are accurate and dependable without having to change.

Remote Control

If you don't have time to check on your smokers continuously, you can opt for a model with remote control. With a remote, you can set or change temperatures, adjust pellet feeding speed, or even turn the smokers on and off.

Bluetooth Technology

With Bluetooth technology, you can take even more control of your smokers. Bluetooth enabled smokers will update your smartphone with temperature changes, low-temp alerts, and other features depending on the abilities of the smoker. While some master grillers consider this “cheating,” unless you are in a competition, the only thing that matters is what ends up on your dinner table.

Patented Side Wood Chip Loading System

For those that like to infuse smoke flavoring with wood chips, Masterbuilt has a patented side-loading chip tray that allows you to add water and wood chips without having to open the main compartment. The side loader keeps the heat and smoke in the cooking chamber where it belongs even when you need to change or add more wood to the fire.

Digital LED Display

Easy-to-read displays help the chef when it comes to timers, temperatures, and taking the guesswork out of cooking. The Digital LED screens on some Masterbuilt models can display time, date, temperatures, timers. With Bluetooth models, you can even get the weather, ambient temperature, and other features to help your cooking time stay perfect.

Temperature Control Panels

The days are gone where you were required to guess how hot or cold your smoker was. Over adding wood and charcoal or turning up the propane flame can cause your meat to dry out. Not having enough, and you add hours to your cooking time. With easy-to-use temperature control panels, Masterbuilt has put full control in your hands in a user-friendly manner. No more guessing, no more hoping., Just perfect temperatures every time.

Versatile

Masterbuilt smokers aren’t just for smoking. You can braise, grill, roast, smoke, and dehydrate. With one of the most versatile smoker lineups on the market, you will find a Masterbuilt smoker that fits all of your needs (and probably a few you didn’t know you needed).

Double Walled Construction

Durability and reliability start with the build and craftsmanship of the smoker. Masterbuilt uses double-walled construction to help prevent warping, cracking, and damage due to high-heat exposure. The thicker walls also insulate the cooking chambers to help maintain an even temperature while keeping the smoke and heat inside where it belongs.

Budget-Friendly

Masterbuilt is made for the everyday cook, and their budget-friendly models prove they care about the working class. You don't have to save for months on end to be able to purchase a reliable smoker. Thanks to Masterbuilt, every budget has a smoker they can afford.


Masterbuilt Smokers Compared

Image

Product

Temperature Range

Cooking Area

Check Price

Masterbuilt MB20073519 Bluetooth Digital Electric...

Masterbuilt MB20073519 MES 130P

100 – 275 Fahrenheit

711 Sq. In.

Masterbuilt 44241G2 Gas Smoker, 24.50' L x 60' H x...

Masterbuilt 44241G2 Smoke Hollow

180 – 345 Fahrenheit

502 Sq. In.

Masterbuilt 20073716 Portable Electric Smoker,...

Masterbuilt 20073716

100 – 275 Fahrenheit

280 Sq. In.

Masterbuilt MB20070210 Analog Electric Smoker with...

Masterbuilt MB20070210 MES 35B

100 – 275 Fahrenheit

536 Sq. In.

Masterbuilt 20075315 Front Controller Smoker with...

Masterbuilt 20075315

180- 350 Fahrenheit

975 Sq. In.

Masterbuilt 20051311 GS30D

Masterbuilt 20051311 GS30D

170 – 350 Fahrenheit

717 Sq. In.

Masterbuilt 20050614, 44-Inch, Black Propane...

Masterbuilt 20050614

180 – 450 Fahrenheit

2000 Sq. In.

Masterbuilt MB20250618 MWS 330B Pellet Smoker,...

Masterbuilt MB20250618

180- 350 Fahrenheit

724 Sq. In.

Masterbuilt Smoker Types

When it comes to Masterbuilt smokers, there are four major types. Electric smokers are the easiest to use, along with propane smokers. Pellet smokers are the most popular while their portable models can go with you anywhere, regardless of location, time, or temperature. Here is a brief overview of the different Masterbuilt smoker types.

Electric Smoker

Electric smokers are by far the easiest smokers to use. These smokers come in analog and digital forms and use an electrical outlet for power. Tied to an outlet, the electric smoker isn’t portable and usually stays where it is first set up. Compared to a propane smoker, the electric type is slightly easier to use, though they produce less smoke than the other types, and the big trade-off comes in the lack of infused flavorings of the meats cooked.

Propane Smoker

Like an electric smoker, a propane gas (or natural gas) smoker is relatively simple to use. They do have a wide temperature range and can be controlled through remote control or Bluetooth (if equipped). Because propane is less expensive than electricity, they are better for more frequent uses and can be taken with you (depending on the size and number of propane tanks you have). There is a threat of running out of propane during cooking that can ruin the meal, though.

Pellet Smoker

Pellet smokers are, by far, the favorite among avid smokers and master grillers. Like charcoal grills, pellet smokers are allowed in competitions and produce the best flavoring of any smoker type. The trade-off is that you have a higher learning curve, and they are among the most difficult to use properly. Masterbuilt makes pellet smoking a bit easier with automatic augers, temperature control panels, and built-in thermometers.

Portable Smoker

Portable smokers are designed to be mobile, as you can tell from the name. They are smaller and usually less expensive than the other types listed here. However, you can put them in a trunk or truck bed and go tailgating, camping, or anywhere else you want to smoke some ribs. The downside is the lack of cooking space. Most smokers will allow you to have plenty of room for multiple types and cuts of meats, where portable models cut down on the square-inch cooking surface to aid in portability.


8 Best Masterbuilt Smokers Reviewed

Our list of the best Masterbuilt smokers is reviewed and organized for you based on craftsmanship, usage, price, and dependability. While you have many models to choose from, in both type and cost, the following 8 Masterbuilt smokers are the best ones for most of your needs.

1. Masterbuilt MB20073519 MES 130P

best Masterbuilt electric smoker

Dimensions

43x22x22 Inches

Weight

57 Lbs.

Temperature Range

100 – 275 Fahrenheit

Cooking Surface Area

711 Sq. In.

Material

Steel

Warranty

1-year warranty on all parts

Our top pick for the best Masterbuilt electric smoker goes to the MES 130P. This digital electric smoker will slow cook any cut of meat you can put inside it. It comes with four chrome racks for holding meats and a top burner for charring or quick-cooking.

The digital panel gives you full control over temperature, times, and power. If you want more, you can also pair the smoker through Bluetooth and get all the information, timers and make adjustments right from your living room. The patented side wood chip loader makes it quick and straightforward to add wood chip flavoring at any time, without opening the door. The stainless water bowl, wood chip tray and drip pan are easily cleaned with warm soap and water.

This smoker has over 700 square inches of cooking surface to accommodate any need you may have. We don’t recommend cooking chicken, though, as the temperature range may not get hot enough to cook thoroughly. The MES 130P is ideal for the beginner smoker, those looking for a second unit to increase cooking space and anyone that wants to dabble in the back yard barbecue game.

Overall, the MES 130P offers everyone a chance to be the BBQ king. However, it is not ideal for those needing a portable unit, requiring a standard, grounded outlet for power, it won’t be great for tailgating or camping.

Pros

  • Ideal for everyone, including beginners.
  • Simple to use controls pair with Bluetooth.
  • Over 700 square inches of cooking surface.
  • Clean up in less than 20 minutes.

Cons

  • Not great for cooking chicken or turkey.
  • Isn't highly portable due to the electric outlet requirement.

2. Masterbuilt 44241G2 Smoke Hollow

top of the range  

Dimensions

24.5 x 33 x 60 Inches

Weight

100 Lbs.

Temperature Range

180 – 345 Fahrenheit

Cooking Surface Area

502 Sq. In.

Material

Powder-Coated Steel

Warranty

1-Year warranty on all parts

The Smoke Hollow from Masterbuilt is the top of the range when it comes to propane smokers. You will find almost two of everything here, including access doors, burners, and grates. The dual burners can be heated to 345 degrees, which is hot enough to cook any type of meat. You also get grilling racks, bacon racks, drying racks, a sausage hanger, and a rib rack. With 6.5 cubic feet of cooking area, the adjustable shelves will accommodate just about anything you can put inside.

The bottom door gives you access to the water bowl and wood chip tray without releasing heat or smoke from the main cooking chamber. Even at 100 pounds, the Smoke Hollow is one of the most rugged, durable smokers available. The powder-coated steel is double-walled and can withstand most weather conditions.

If you want a quick-fire, easy to start smoker that will give you quality cooked meat time and again, this is the model for you. The Smoke Hollow has a double chip tray to last an entire cooking session without having to add more wood chips, and you can’t go wrong with one of the most accurate built-in thermometers we have seen. The Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow is ideal for those that want a portable unit to take camping or to sit around the back patio smoking a brisket.

Pros

  • Extra durable construction for long life.
  • Dual burners for faster to-temp start-ups.
  • Push-button ignition for instant lighting.

Cons

  • Portable unit still weighs over 100 pounds.
  • Water bowl can empty too fast.

3. Masterbuilt 20073716

best portable option

Dimensions

15.94 x 23.62 x 23.42 Inches

Weight

22 Lbs.

Temperature Range

100 – 275 Fahrenheit

Cooking Surface Area

280 Sq. In.

Material

Steel, Porcelain

Warranty

1-Year warranty on all parts

If you are headed to the big game and want to set p shop for a great meal, your tailgate just got even better. The Masterbuilt electric portable smoker is perfect for those on the go. It can accommodate 280 square inches of food and heats up to 275 degrees (F) fast.

The legs are made of sturdy steel and still fold under for easy transportation. At only 22 pounds, you can take it just about anywhere (as long as you have a power supply). The turn dial temperature selector plugs into the side of the unit, so it doesn’t get in your way. Don’t expect to craft masterful smoke rings on briskets, or pull out delicate ribs. This unit isn’t designed for that. However, it will cook your meats to perfection and infuse them with some smoke flavoring.

You get two racks for food storage and a seal-tight door with a built-in thermometer. There isn’t a meat probe, so you will need to check manually, however, with near-instant heat, even opening the door won’t detract from your cooking times. While the best portable option isn’t designed for everyday use, proper care, maintenance, and storage will give you a reliable smoker for years to come.

Pros

  • Durable steel construction.
  • Lightweight for easy transportation.
  • Large cooking surface area for a portable unit.
  • Folding legs for storage and transport.

Cons

  • Not ideal for daily use.
  • No secondary access to preserve heat and smoke inside while cooking.

4. Masterbuilt MB20070210 MES 35B

best 30 inch masterbuilt smoker

Dimensions

40x22x20 Inches

Weight

50 Lbs.

Temperature Range

100 – 275 Fahrenheit

Cooking Surface Area

536 Sq. In.

Material

Steel

Warranty

1-year warranty on all parts

The best 30-inch Masterbuilt smoker is the MES 35B. This three-rack vertical smoker has plenty of room for your backyard barbecue needs. You can fit up to 2 whole turkeys, 3 racks of ribs, or 2 large briskets on the 536 square inch cooking surface.

The electric smoker has an easy-to-use system that allows you to plug it in, turn it on, and set your temperature. If you have never used a smoker before, the MES 35B is an ideal first smoker. Eventually, you may want to move up to a higher capacity and higher quality smoker, but this Masterbuilt smoker is perfect to learn on.

To adjust the temperature, there is a turn-dial setting control. With a max temp of 275 degrees, you can cook just about anything you want on a slow and low setting. Infusing smoke flavoring is made simple as well. With a front loader water bowl for moisture, wood chip tray for flavoring, and a front access drip tray to catch your drippings, you won’t have any problems using this smoker.

Where you want to be careful is in cooking chicken, as the lower temperature can cause undercooked fowl. Other than that, the only complaint you might have is with the door seal, which is easily remedied during assembly with a high-temp sealant or a smoker door gasket.

Pros

  • Easy to use turn-dial controls.
  • Large enough space for multiple meats at a time.
  • Ideal for the beginner to novice grill master.

Cons

  • Not ideal for cooking chicken.
  • Door will need sealant during assembly.

5. Masterbuilt 20075315

best 40 inch masterbuilt smoker 

Dimensions

19.53 x 24.96 x 40.16 Inches

Weight

73 Lbs.

Temperature Range

180- 350 Fahrenheit

Cooking Surface Area

975 Sq. In.

Material

Powder-coated heavy-duty steel

Warranty

1-year warranty on all parts

Ready to up your game from the best 30-inch Masterbuilt smoker? It’s time for the best 40-inch Masterbuilt smoker. Now you can cook on 975 square inches and increase your temperatures to 350 degrees (F).

The Masterbuilt 20075315 is arguably the most dependable, durable, and best-priced 40-inch smoker on the market. It also comes with a huge LED digital display with blue lighting so you can view it at night or in direct sun. You also have the ability to control the settings, temperatures, and power with an IR remote control.

Aside from the price, the best part is the construction. Heavy-duty powder-coated steel ensures your food stays engulfed in smoke and heat. You don’t have to wonder, either. With the full-view window pane door, you can watch as your meats turn that delicious golden-brown. The interior meat probe will keep your internal food temperatures perfect, so you know exactly when to remove.

The assembly can be a little rough, but the instructions are crystal clear, and if you take your time, you won’t need more than about an hour. Add another three hours for the initial burn-in and clean up, and you can start cooking for tonight's meal sooner than you think.

Pros

  • Ideal for the grill master ready to get serious.
  • Durable construction for years of use.
  • Enormous cooking area for all your needs
  • 5 chrome racks and easy-access trays.

Cons

  • Can leak heat and smoke if not correctly sealed.
  • Assembly can be more daunting than other models.

6. Masterbuilt 20051311 GS30D

best value for money  

Dimensions

43.5x21.4x20 Inches

Weight

59 Lbs.

Temperature Range

170 – 350 Fahrenheit

Cooking Surface Area

717 Sq. In.

Material

Steel

Warranty

1-year warranty on all parts

Looking for the best value for the money? The Masterbuilt GS30D propane smoker is your answer. With over 700 square inches of cooking space, you won’t have any problem fitting any type of meat inside.

Because the unit is propane powered, you have a higher temperature range to cook anything you desire. Add in a grid mat, and you can smoke vegetables and fish, too. The four chrome cooking racks are adjustable, just like the air dampers and baffles that help you control the heat and smoke.

Assembly is straightforward, and the door comes with an inner seal. No need for gaskets here. Once you complete the pre-seasoning, you are good to go. Open the valve on your propane tank and push the ignite button. Simple, easy, and ready to add food in less than 15 minutes.

The access panels allow you to keep the water bowl and wood chip tray full without losing heat. The built-in temp gauge is accurate to within 10 degrees (F), so you won’t need to replace it right away with a third-party thermometer. The GS30D is even lightweight enough to take with you camping to the tailgate or neighborhood cookout. No matter where you are, you can cook like a pro without breaking the bank.

Pros

  • Cool-touch handles prevent burning your hands.
  • Inner liner negates the need for extra gaskets.
  • Easy to fill with water and wood chips at any point of the cooking process.

Cons

  • Steel construction can be a little on the thin side.

7. Masterbuilt 20050614

best masterbuilt propane smoker  

Dimensions

55.5x37.8x22.4 Inches

Weight

91 Lbs.

Temperature Range

180 – 450 Fahrenheit

Cooking Surface Area

2000 Sq. In.

Material

Steel

Warranty

1-year warranty on all parts

The best Masterbuilt propane smoker gives you over 2,000 square inches of cooking space. You won’t need any more space than that! You can fit anything inside here if you knock the hooves off first. With twin burners, the heat will arrive quickly and stay throughout the cooking process, no matter how hot you have it.

The easy access dual-door system Masterbuilt is famous for, comes into play here, too. Add water to the bowl, new wood chips on the hour, or check the drip tray without the cooking chamber looking heat or smoke.You can even take it with you! The easy pull handle and weight under 100 pounds mean you can take the propane smoker camping or to your mothers-in-law when you are ready to impress her.

The unit comes with three cooking racks and two hanging racks for bacon, sausage, or vertical ribs. You can even add a cover and a grid mat for storage or cooking fish. Finding the right temperature won’t be a challenge, either. With a range exceeding 400 degrees, you can sear your steak or put that final glaze on those ribs, all without doing more than turning a dial.

The thermometer should be changed during assembly but is accurate within 20 degrees if you haven’t found a better option by the time it arrives. The viewing window will help you know when the meat is ready, too.

Pros

  • Massive 2,000 sq. in. cooking space.
  • Dual burner with push-button ignition.
  • Full-view window with a built-in thermometer.

Cons

  • Needs extra time for assembly and high-temp sealant to set.
  • Storage can be difficult because of size.

8. Masterbuilt MB20250618

best masterbuilt pellet smoker  

Dimensions

43x31x24 Inches

Weight

84 Lbs.

Temperature Range

180- 350 Fahrenheit

Cooking Surface Area

724 Sq. In.

Material

Heavy-duty Steel

Warranty

1-year warranty on all parts

For those wanting the best flavor, easiest cooking, and lots of smoke, the best Masterbuilt pellet smoker is what you are after. Pellet smoking is an art form and takes a while to get the hang of it. With the Masterbuilt pellet smoker, your learning curve gets cut in half.

With over 720 square inches of vertical cooking space, the electric auger will keep the burner going with the precise application of wood pellets. The hopper will hold up to 8 pounds, which will provide enough fire for about 15 hours of cooking. There isn’t an automatic cleanout for the hopper, though, so you will need to ensure you get it thoroughly cleaned out (unplug it first!) before changing wood pellet flavors.

The electronic ignition means you can start the smoker and be adding food in less than 15 minutes. It also has the ability to infuse more smoke during the first hour and cook evenly for the duration to give your meats the ideal smoke ring and flavor possible. With the preset smoke and cook cycles, the guess-work is gone, and you can sit back and let the smoker do the work.

Pros

  • Preset smoke and cooking times take the guesswork out of smoking.
  • Up to 350 degrees for braising, grilling , smoking or baking.
  • Ideal for the serious smoke-pro.

Cons

  • Not as portable as some models.
  • May require extra sealant during assembly.

Comparison to Other Brands

When it comes to the major name brand smokers out there, Masterbuilt has created its own little niche that allows more people to own a reliable, durable smoker. There are top-tier brands such as Oklahoma Joe’s and Yoder. Masterbuilt Smokers can produce the same quality food, though they don’t quite compete with the construction, durability, and feature sets that these big brands have (and charge you for).

Pit Boss and Bradley smokers are more comparable in both price and features to Masterbuilt, though neither has the range of smoker types and prices that Masterbuilt offers. As far as being durable and the construction materials, Masterbuilt is on par or slightly better than these brands.


How to Setup & Use a Masterbuilt Smoker

When you get your smoker home, you will need to assemble it. Make sure you understand the instructions for assembly as each smoker is different. What is the same, though, is that you will need either gasket material or high-temp sealant.

If using a sealant, make sure that it is food-grade and that you place it around every part that gets assembled. The first time you use your Masterbuilt smoker, you will need to do an initial burn-in. In the industry, it is known as seasoning your grill (we also call it pre-seasoning). You will follow all instructions for cooking on your smoker, with the exception that there is no food.

The Masterbuilt owner’s manuals will have season instructions. Still, the basic idea is to do an initial burn to remove any excess oils and materials leftover from the manufacturing process. You will start with a low temp setting and let the smoker run for about two hours. From there, you will increase the temperature to a high setting and let the smoker cook for about 30 minutes.

Following the high-temp cycle, you will go through the cool down and shut down phases and let the smoker cool completely. A good cleaning of the smoker and it is then ready to cook real food. You can view this video from Masterbuilt to get a better idea of assembly and seasoning.


Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping your smoker clean is vital to the flavors of your food and the longevity of the smoker. Cleaning is a straightforward process. You will want to remove all of the racks, trays, and bowls from the inside and wash them by hand with warm, soapy water.

For the smoker itself, Masterbuilt recommends you never use harsh chemicals and instead make a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar. Using the mix and a soft sponge wipe the walls, rack holders, probes, and door and wipe clean.

Once all of the components and the inside of the smoker are clean, put it back together and store it in a covered, dry area. If you are unsure about the elements, you can purchase a smoker cover to help protect your investment. For more details, check out the cleaning and storage video from Masterbuilt.


People also Ask (FAQs)

How much electricity does a Masterbuilt smoker use?
On average, an electric smoker will use about 800 watts per hour of use. On a slow and low cook, you will see a spike in your energy bill of about 6 or 7-kilowatt hours. Depending on how much your electric company charges you per kWh, your costs will raise that amount per use.
How hot does a Masterbuilt smoker get?
The Masterbuilt digital electric smokers have a temperature range of 100- 275 degrees (F).
Do you soak wood chips for Masterbuilt electric smoker?
It is recommended that you soak your wood chips for at least 12 hours before use. Soaking isn’t mandatory, but it is highly encouraged.
How long do the wood chips last? How often should I add wood chips to my Masterbuilt electric smoker?
Wood chips will last about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the soak time and smoker temperature. You can add new chips about every 45 minutes. However, it is recommended that you only add new chips for the first 2 hours and then half the total cook time after that.
Can I use aluminum foil in an electric smoker?
Yes. Masterbuilt recommends that you cover the water bowl and drip tray in aluminum foil to assist in the cleanup.
Where is the best place to find Masterbuilt smoker manuals? Does it come with the product?
Every Masterbuilt smoker will come with an owner’s manual. However, if you lose your copy or want a digital version, you can find them on the Masterbuilt website.
Where is the best place to buy Masterbuilt smoker replacement parts?
To get authentic parts while still in warranty coverage, it is best to shop directly through Masterbuilt. However, to save a little money and get expedited shipping, you can buy through Amazon. You will want to verify that the responsible seller is Masterbuilt; otherwise, a purchase through any site or seller can void the warranty.
What does the Masterbuilt electric smoker app do?
The Masterbuilt electric smoker app allows you to power the smoker on or off, set a cooking temperature, set the time, and create timers. You also get alerts when the temperature is reached, or a timer is complete. There are also over 250 recipes found through the app. The Masterbuilt app is a free download from either the iOS store or through the Google Play store.
What Masterbuilt smoker accessories do I need?
Depending on what you are cooking, you may be interested in purchasing barbecue gloves. You will find these in kits that include a grilling mat for fish or vegetables, and instant-read thermometers. You can also find a kit that contains BBQ claws for shredding meat. It is also a wise investment to purchase a cover for your smoker, as well.

Conclusion

Masterbuilt has a long history of providing quality smokers at affordable prices. If the construction and durability aren’t enough to sway you, the customer service will be. Every customer is treated like family, and Masterbuilt strives to make each individual consumer feel like they belong.

Whether you decide to go electric, propane or pellet, your new Masterbuilt smoker will provide you astounding meals day-in and day-out for years to come. There is a reason Masterbuilt is a powerhouse name in the affordable smoker industry. Once you buy, you will see why.

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