Smoking meat used to mean babysitting a fire for twelve hours straight. Not anymore. Masterbuilt changed the game with electric, propane, and charcoal gravity-fed smokers that handle the hard work for you. Whether you want a set-and-forget electric unit for weekend ribs or a gravity-fed charcoal beast for competition-level brisket, the best Masterbuilt smokers deliver serious bang for your buck.
Our team spent weeks digging through thousands of customer reviews, comparing temperature consistency data, and analyzing real-world cooking experiences across Reddit’s r/smoking community. We looked at every model Masterbuilt makes, from their entry-level 30-inch electric smokers to their flagship Gravity Series 1050. The goal was simple: find which models actually deliver on their promises and which ones fall flat.
What we found is that Masterbuilt has something for everyone. Their electric smokers are the most beginner-friendly option on the market. The Gravity Series brings real charcoal flavor with digital temperature control. And the propane models offer portability and economy that electric units cannot match. In this guide, we break down all 10 models worth your money in 2026, with honest pros, cons, and recommendations based on real user experiences.
Top 3 Masterbuilt Smokers for 2026
Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital…
- 710 sq in cooking space
- Digital controls up to 275F
- Patented side wood chip loader
- 710 sq in
- 4 chrome racks
EAST OAK 30-inch Electric…
- 725 sq in cooking area
- Built-in meat probe
- 6x longer smoking
- Glass viewing window
- Digital controls
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800
- Charcoal grilling + griddle
- DigitalFan temperature control
- WiFi app control
- Reaches 700F in 14 min
- 800 sq in
Best Masterbuilt Smokers (August 2026)
1. Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker (MB20071117) – Best Overall Electric Smoker
Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Side Wood Chip Loader, Chrome Racks and 710 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20071117
Electric fuel
710 sq in cooking space
Digital controls up to 275F
Four chrome racks
45.9 lbs
The Good
- Digital controls for seamless smoking up to 275F
- Patented side wood chip loader system
- Removable water bowl for optimal moisture
- Fits 6 chickens or 4 racks of ribs
- Removable rear grease tray for easy cleanup
The Bad
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock availability
This is the smoker that put Masterbuilt on the map, and it still ranks as the best Masterbuilt smoker for most backyard cooks. With over 11,000 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it has the track record to back up its reputation. I have recommended this model to friends and family members who wanted to start smoking meat without dropping a thousand dollars on equipment.
The digital control panel lets you set your temperature up to 275F and walk away. No constant fire tending, no temperature guessing. You load wood chips through the patented side loader, which means you never have to open the main door and lose all your heat. It is the definition of set-and-forget smoking.
With 711 square inches across four chrome-coated racks, you get enough space for serious cooking. Masterbuilt says it fits up to 6 chickens, 2 turkeys, 4 pork butts, or 4 racks of ribs. From what I have seen in user reviews, those capacity claims are accurate if you use the space efficiently.
The removable water bowl keeps meat moist during long smokes, and the rear grease tray makes cleanup significantly less painful than older designs. The air damper gives you some control over smoke intensity, though it is not as precise as what you get with charcoal or pellet smokers.
What stands out most about this model is the value. You get proven performance and reliable digital controls at a price point that makes electric smoking accessible to anyone. Reddit users consistently recommend this as the starting point for anyone new to smoking.
The main downside is the 275F temperature ceiling. If you want to finish chicken with crispy skin or hot-smoke fish at higher temperatures, you will feel limited. Also, the stock availability fluctuates, so you may need to act fast when it is in stock.
Best For: Beginner Pitmasters
If you have never smoked meat before, this is where you start. The digital controls remove the learning curve, and the side wood chip loader means you can add smoke without disturbing your cook. It is forgiving, reliable, and produces consistent results right out of the gate.
Temperature Recovery Performance
One thing to keep in mind is that electric smokers have slower temperature recovery than propane or charcoal units. When you open the door to check on food, expect a 15 to 20 minute wait to get back to your set temperature. Plan your door openings accordingly.
2. EAST OAK 30-inch Electric Smoker – Highest Rated Alternative
EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker for Outdoors | Built-in Meat Probe & Clear Viewing Window | Side Chip Loader for 6x Longer Uninterrupted Smoking | 725 sq in Cooking Area for Bigger Batches, Night Blue
Electric fuel
725 sq in cooking area
Built-in meat probe
Auto keep-warm mode
Glass viewing window
The Good
- 6x longer uninterrupted smoking per load
- Built-in meat probe tracks internal temp
- Auto switches to keep-warm at target time
- Side chip loader prevents heat loss
- 83 percent 5-star reviews
- Prime eligible
The Bad
- Higher price point than Masterbuilt models
- Smaller brand recognition
While this technically carries the EAST OAK brand name, it appears prominently in Masterbuilt smoker searches and directly competes with Masterbuilt’s electric lineup. After analyzing the data, I can confidently say this is the highest-rated electric smoker in this category with a stunning 4.7-star average from 1,845 reviews. That is 83 percent five-star ratings.
The standout feature here is the 6x longer smoking time per wood chip load. If you have ever used a standard electric smoker, you know the frustration of refilling wood chips every 30 to 45 minutes. This design solves that problem, letting you load up and smoke for hours without opening the side loader.
The built-in meat probe is a feature that Masterbuilt does not include on their base electric models. You can track internal meat temperature in real time without running a separate thermometer cable through the door. The smoker also automatically switches to keep-warm mode when your target time is reached, preventing overcooking.
The clear glass viewing window is a meaningful upgrade over the solid doors on some Masterbuilt models. You can check on your food without opening the door and losing heat. Combined with the digital controls, this smoker is truly designed for unattended operation.
At 725 square inches across four racks, the cooking area is nearly identical to the Masterbuilt 30-inch. The powder-coated steel exterior feels solid, and the aluminized steel interior should hold up well over time. Prime eligibility is also a plus, since many Masterbuilt models are not Prime eligible.
Best For: Set-and-Forget Cooks
The combination of extended smoke time, auto keep-warm, and the meat probe makes this the best choice for anyone who wants to load food, set temperature, and genuinely walk away for hours. It beats Masterbuilt on convenience features.
How It Compares to the Masterbuilt 30-inch
The EAST OAK costs about $80 more than the Masterbuilt 30-inch, but you get the meat probe, longer smoke time, glass window, and keep-warm feature. If those features matter to you, the upgrade is worth every penny. If you just want basic electric smoking, the Masterbuilt is still the better value.
3. Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker with Leg Kit (MB20070421) – Best Value Pick
Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Leg Kit, Side Wood Chip Loader and 710 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20070421
Electric fuel
710 sq in cooking space
Includes leg kit
Viewing window
Lockable door latch
50.3 lbs
The Good
- 710 sq in across four chrome racks
- Leg kit raises smoker to comfortable height
- Convenient viewing window to monitor food
- Lockable door latch for better heat retention
- Adjustable air damper for smoke control
The Bad
- 9 percent 1-star reviews citing temp issues
- Not Prime eligible
- Slightly heavier at 50.3 lbs
This model sits between the base MB20071117 and the larger 40-inch options. The standout difference is the included leg kit, which raises the smoker to a comfortable working height. If you have ever bent over to check food in a ground-level smoker for hours, you know how valuable those legs are.
With 2,714 reviews and a 4.3-star average, this model has proven itself over time. The 68 percent five-star rating shows most users are happy, though the 9 percent one-star reviews are worth paying attention to. Temperature consistency is the main complaint, with some users reporting swings of 20 degrees or more from the set point.
The viewing window is a practical feature that the base 30-inch model lacks. Being able to see your food without opening the door makes a real difference during long smokes. The lockable door latch also improves heat retention compared to the friction-fit doors on older models.
I appreciate that this model includes the same patented side wood chip loader as the rest of the Masterbuilt electric lineup. The air damper gives you some control over smoke density, and the removable water bowl and grease tray make post-cook cleanup manageable.
Best For: Backyard Cooks Who Want Legs
The leg kit is the deciding factor here. If you do not want to build a stand or place your smoker on a table, this model gives you a comfortable working height out of the box. The viewing window and lockable latch are nice bonuses.
Temperature Consistency Tips
To minimize temperature swings, preheat for 30 minutes before adding food. Avoid opening the door more than necessary, and consider adding high-temperature gasket tape around the door seal. Many Reddit users report this simple modification significantly improves heat retention.
4. Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker (MB20070122) – Best for Large Families
Masterbuilt® 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Leg Kit, Side Wood Chip Loader and 970 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20070122
Electric fuel
970 sq in cooking space
Fits 16 chickens
Viewing window
72.1 lbs
Leg kit included
The Good
- 970 sq in fits up to 16 chickens or 8 racks of ribs
- Massive capacity for large gatherings
- Digital controls up to 275F
- Viewing window and lockable door latch
- Includes leg kit for standing height
The Bad
- 20 percent 1-star reviews on temp control
- Some units arrived with shipping damage
- Heavier at 72.1 lbs
- Lower 3.9 average rating
When you need to smoke food for a crowd, the 30-inch models simply run out of space. That is where the Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker comes in. With 970 square inches of cooking space, this unit fits up to 16 chickens, 4 turkeys, 8 pork butts, or 8 racks of ribs. It is the largest electric smoker in the Masterbuilt lineup.
I want to be transparent about the rating situation. At 3.9 stars with 463 reviews, this model has the most mixed feedback of the Masterbuilt electric smokers. The 20 percent one-star rate is notably higher than the 30-inch models. Most complaints center on temperature consistency issues and some shipping damage reports.
That said, when this smoker works properly, it is a powerhouse. The same digital controls, side wood chip loader, and water bowl system carry over from the 30-inch. You just get significantly more cooking space. The four chrome-coated racks are adjustable, so you can configure the interior for large briskets or dozens of chicken pieces.
The viewing window and lockable door latch are included, and the leg kit raises the unit to a comfortable standing height. At 72.1 pounds, this is a substantial piece of equipment that you will want to position carefully before loading it up.
If you regularly cook for 15 or more people, or you batch-smoke for meal prep, the extra space is invaluable. Just be aware that the larger interior means more air volume to heat, which can amplify any temperature consistency issues.
Best For: Feeding a Crowd
If you host large gatherings, do competition-style cooks, or run a small catering operation, the 970 square inches of cooking space is hard to beat in an electric smoker. No other Masterbuilt electric model offers this much capacity.
Managing the Temperature Issues
To get the best results from this model, use a separate digital meat thermometer to verify internal temperatures. The built-in thermostat can drift, especially near the top racks. Rotating food between upper and lower racks midway through cooking helps ensure even results.
5. Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker (MB20072918) – No-Leg Variant
Masterbuilt® 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Side Wood Chip Loader, Chrome Smoking Racks and 970 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20072918
Electric fuel
970 sq in cooking space
No leg kit
Digital controls
58.32 lbs
Side wood chip loader
The Good
- 970 sq in cooking space
- Same capacity as leg kit version
- Lighter without legs at 58 lbs
- Digital controls and side loader
- Chrome smoking racks included
The Bad
- Lowest rated model at 3.8 stars
- 21 percent 1-star reviews
- Temperature control issues
- No leg kit included
- Durability concerns reported
This is the legless version of the 40-inch Masterbuilt electric smoker. It offers the same 970 square inches of cooking space but comes without the leg kit, making it about $50 cheaper and 14 pounds lighter. You will need a sturdy table or stand to use it comfortably.
I have to be honest about the numbers here. This is the lowest-rated model in our lineup at 3.8 stars, with 21 percent of reviews being one-star. The concerns are real: temperature inconsistency, durability questions, and fewer included features than the MB20070122 variant. If you are set on a 40-inch electric, I would strongly recommend paying the extra money for the leg kit version.
The core features are still there. You get digital controls, the side wood chip loader, chrome smoking racks, and the same massive cooking capacity. The cold rolled steel construction should hold up under normal use, but some users report paint bubbling and rust issues after a season or two.
Where this model makes sense is if you already have a dedicated smoker table or cabinet and do not need the legs. The lower profile also means it stores more easily in a shed or garage. Just go in with realistic expectations about temperature consistency.
Best For: Budget-Conscious Large-Capacity Needs
If you absolutely need 40-inch capacity and have a surface to place the smoker on, this saves you money over the leg kit version. Just budget for a good aftermarket thermometer and possibly some gasket tape to improve performance.
Why the Rating Is Lower
The lower rating appears tied to quality control rather than fundamental design flaws. Users who get a good unit report satisfaction, but the percentage of lemons is higher than other Masterbuilt models. Buying from a retailer with a solid return policy is advisable.
6. Masterbuilt MPS 230S Propane Smoker – Best Propane Smoker Value
Masterbuilt MPS 230S Propane Smoker, 30″ , Black
Propane fuel
15400 BTU burner
Push-button ignition
Temp gauge
66.5 lbs
Porcelain flame disk
The Good
- Push-button ignition for easy startup
- 15400 BTU stainless steel burner
- Four chrome-coated smoking racks
- Built-in temperature gauge
- Patented porcelain-coated flame disk bowl
- Prime eligible
The Bad
- Learning curve for temperature management
- Door seal may need gasket tape
- Glass window fogs during use
Electric smokers are convenient, but they max out at 275F and you need a power outlet nearby. Propane solves both problems. The Masterbuilt MPS 230S gives you a 15,400 BTU stainless steel burner that can hit higher temperatures and works anywhere you can set a propane tank. No cords, no outlet requirements.
With 2,615 reviews and a solid 4.3-star rating, this propane smoker has earned its following. The push-button ignition fires up the burner instantly, and the built-in temperature gauge lets you monitor heat without opening the door. The patented porcelain-coated flame disk bowl is a smart design that allows the flame to reach your wood chips while shielding the burner from grease drips.
From what users on Reddit report, the propane running cost is noticeably lower than electricity for long smokes. A standard 20-pound propane tank can run this smoker for 15 to 20 hours, depending on your temperature settings. That makes it ideal for all-day brisket sessions.
The trade-off is temperature management. Unlike electric smokers where you set a digital temp and walk away, propane requires manual adjustment. You will need to monitor the gauge and tweak the flame as needed. Wind and ambient temperature also affect propane burners more than electric elements.
Many experienced users recommend adding high-temperature gasket tape around the door to improve heat retention. The factory door seal is adequate but not great, and this cheap modification makes a noticeable difference in temperature stability.
Best For: Off-Grid and High-Temp Smoking
If you want to smoke at your cabin, tailgate, or anywhere without electricity, this is your answer. The propane fuel also lets you hit temperatures above 275F, which matters for finishing poultry with crispy skin or hot-smoking certain foods.
Propane vs Electric Running Costs
A 20-pound propane tank refill costs roughly $15 to $20 and provides 15 to 20 hours of smoking time. Electric smokers draw about 800 watts, which translates to roughly $1.50 to $2.00 per session in electricity. Propane costs more per hour but offers portability and higher temperatures that electric cannot match.
7. Masterbuilt 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Smoker – Best Temperature-Controlled Propane
Masterbuilt® 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Gas Vertical BBQ Smoker with Analog Temperature Control and 960 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20051316
Propane fuel
960 sq in cooking space
ThermoTemp control
Up to 375F
Fits 16 chickens
Insulated body
The Good
- ThermoTemp maintains temp within 5-10 degrees
- 960 sq in fits 16 chickens or 8 racks of ribs
- Adjustable temp dial up to 375F
- Push-button ignition
- Fully insulated smoker body
- Removable water bowl and lockable door latch
The Bad
- Window fogs up quickly during use
- Sharp edges inside door may need filing
- Limited hose length for propane tank
- Low stock availability
The ThermoTemp system is what sets this propane smoker apart from the MPS 230S. Instead of manually adjusting the flame to maintain temperature, the ThermoTemp technology automatically regulates the propane flow to keep your cooking temperature within 5 to 10 degrees of your set point. It is the closest thing to set-and-forget smoking you can get with propane.
With 960 square inches of cooking space, this 40-inch model fits up to 16 chickens, 6 turkeys, 8 pork butts, or 8 racks of ribs. That is massive capacity for a propane smoker. The adjustable temperature dial goes up to 375F, which is 100 degrees higher than what the electric models can achieve.
The fully insulated body does a better job of retaining heat than the non-insulated propane models. This matters in cold or windy weather, where uninsulated smokers struggle to maintain consistent temperatures. The lockable door latch keeps heat and smoke inside where they belong.
I do want to flag the window issue. Multiple reviewers note that the glass window becomes foggy and covered in smoke residue within the first hour of cooking. It is essentially decorative after that. Plan to use a separate meat thermometer rather than relying on visual checks through the window.
The propane consumption is economical. Users report getting multiple long smokes from a single 20-pound tank, and the ThermoTemp system actually helps by modulating fuel usage rather than running at a constant rate.
Best For: Serious Propane Smoking
If you want the portability and high-temperature capability of propane with the convenience of automatic temperature control, the ThermoTemp system makes this the clear choice. It bridges the gap between manual propane and digital electric smoking.
Sharp Edges and Modifications
Several users report sharp edges on the inside of the door around the glass area. A quick pass with a metal file resolves this, but it is something to check during assembly. Also, consider adding gasket tape to the door for even better heat retention than the factory provides.
8. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 – Best Premium Charcoal Smoker Grill
Masterbuilt® Gravity Series® 1050 Smoker Grill – Digital Charcoal Combo Grill with Free App, 1,050 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20041220
Charcoal fuel
1050 sq in cooking space
GravityFed hopper
DigitalFan control
WiFi app
Reaches 700F
The Good
- DigitalFan precisely maintains temperature
- GravityFed hopper burns 8 hours on single load
- Reaches 225F in 8 min or 700F in 15 min
- WiFi and Bluetooth app control
- Reversible cast iron grates for searing
- Real charcoal smoke flavor
- 1050 sq in cooking space
The Bad
- Assembly takes 3-6 hours
- Instruction manual is vague
- App can disconnect
- Electronics can fail
- Cannot operate without electricity
The Gravity Series 1050 is the most advanced smoker Masterbuilt makes. It combines real charcoal flavor with digital temperature control that rivals pellet smokers. The gravity-fed hopper holds 10 pounds of lump charcoal or 16 pounds of briquettes, burning for up to 8 hours without refueling. The DigitalFan maintains your set temperature with precision that manual charcoal smoking simply cannot match.
I have read through hundreds of reviews for this unit, and the consensus is clear: when it works, it is the best charcoal smoker you can buy for the price. It reaches 225F in 8 minutes for low-and-slow smoking, or 700F in 15 minutes for searing steaks. The reversible cast iron grates let you configure for high-heat grilling or low-and-slow smoking.
The WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity lets you monitor and adjust temperature through the Masterbuilt app. This means you can check on a brisket from inside your house without opening the lid. The built-in meat probe thermometer feeds internal temperature data to the app as well.
Be prepared for assembly. Multiple reviewers report spending 3 to 6 hours putting this together, and the instruction manual is frequently described as vague. This is not a quick unbox-and-cook situation. Set aside a full afternoon, ideally with two people.
The electronics are the main reliability concern. The fan, proximity switches, and control panel have all been reported as failure points. Since the smoker cannot operate without electricity, an electronic failure means a dead smoker until parts arrive. Masterbuilt covers this under their 1-year warranty, but it is something to be aware of.
Best For: Charcoal Purists Who Want Convenience
If you love the flavor of real charcoal but hate babysitting a fire, the Gravity Series 1050 is made for you. You get authentic charcoal smoke with set-and-forget temperature control. No pellet smoker can match the smoke intensity this produces.
Gravity Series vs Pellet Smokers
Pellet smokers use compressed wood pellets and produce a milder smoke flavor. The Gravity Series uses real lump charcoal or briquettes, delivering a stronger, more traditional smoke profile. The GravityFed hopper feeds charcoal automatically, so you get the convenience of pellets with the flavor of charcoal.
9. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 – Best Versatile Charcoal Grill and Smoker
Masterbuilt® Gravity Series® 800 Smoker Grill – Charcoal Grill plus Griddle Insert, Digital Control, App Connectivity, 800 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20040221
Charcoal fuel
800 sq in cooking space
Griddle insert included
DigitalFan control
WiFi app
Reaches 700F in 14 min
The Good
- Reaches 225F in 8 min or 700F in 14 min
- Includes flat top griddle insert
- DigitalFan maintains consistent temperature
- WiFi and Bluetooth smart device control
- Meat probe thermometer included
- 800 sq in of cooking area
The Bad
- Heavy at 204 pounds
- Assembly required
- Requires electricity to operate
- Premium price point
The Gravity Series 800 is the slightly smaller sibling of the 1050, but it brings something the 1050 does not: a flat top griddle insert. That makes this the most versatile smoker in the Masterbuilt lineup. You can smoke brisket at 225F in the morning, flip the grates for high-heat searing at 700F, and cook breakfast on the griddle the next morning. All from one unit.
With 1,263 reviews and a 4.0-star average, the 800 has a stronger track record than the 1050. The smaller size makes it more manageable for typical backyard use, and the cooking area at 800 square inches is still substantial. Two porcelain-coated smoking racks complement the main cast iron cooking surface.
The DigitalFan technology is identical to what the 1050 uses. It maintains your set temperature by controlling airflow to the burning charcoal. The gravity-fed hopper holds enough fuel for extended cooks, and the digital control panel makes temperature adjustments simple.
The WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity works through the Masterbuilt app, giving you remote monitoring and control. The included meat probe thermometer sends real-time internal temperature readings to your phone. This is genuinely useful for long overnight brisket or pork butt smokes.
At 204 pounds, this is a heavy piece of equipment. Plan your placement carefully, because you will not want to move it frequently. The stainless steel construction should hold up well outdoors, though a cover is recommended to protect the electronics from rain.
Best For: All-in-One Outdoor Cooking
If you want one device that can smoke, grill, sear, and griddle-cook, the Gravity Series 800 is the most versatile option Masterbuilt makes. The griddle insert alone opens up cooking possibilities that no other model in this lineup offers.
Gravity Series 800 vs 1050: Which to Buy
The 800 gives you the griddle insert and costs about $65 less than the 1050. The 1050 offers more cooking space at 1,050 square inches versus 800. If versatility matters more than raw capacity, get the 800. If you regularly cook for large groups, the extra 250 square inches of the 1050 justifies the higher price.
10. Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 – Best Entry-Level Charcoal Digital Smoker
Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker Combo for Easy Grilling, Digital Control, App, Sear Plate, Mini Hopper and 545 BBQ Cooking Square In. in Black
Charcoal fuel
545 sq in cooking space
Auto ignition
DigitalFan control
MiniHopper
250F-650F range
The Good
- QuickStart automatic ignition eliminates lighter fluid
- DigitalFan maintains consistent temperature
- Temperature range 250F to 650F
- MiniHopper holds 5lbs charcoal for 8 hours
- 545 sq in cooking space
- App connectivity included
- Sear plate included
The Bad
- Lowest rating at 3.7 stars
- Only 59 reviews
- Newer model with unknown long-term durability
- Limited charcoal hopper capacity
The AutoIgnite 545 is the newest addition to the Masterbuilt charcoal lineup, and it brings the gravity-fed concept to a more affordable price point. At $407.88 with Prime shipping, it is the cheapest way to get into digital charcoal smoking. The QuickStart automatic ignition fires up your charcoal with the push of a button. No chimney starter, no lighter fluid, no fuss.
The DigitalFan maintains temperatures between 250F and 650F, giving you a wide range for both smoking and grilling. The MiniHopper holds 5 pounds of lump charcoal or 7 pounds of briquettes, good for up to 8 hours of cooking on a single load. That is less capacity than the Gravity Series 1050 or 800, but it is enough for most weekend sessions.
I want to address the rating situation honestly. At 3.7 stars with only 59 reviews, this model does not have the track record of the other smokers on this list. The low rating may reflect early production issues, the learning curve of a new product, or simply a small sample size. As more units sell and reviews accumulate, the rating could go either direction.
The 545 square inches of cooking space is the smallest in this roundup, but it is still enough for 2 to 3 racks of ribs, a couple of chickens, or a small brisket flat. The included sear plate lets you reverse-sear steaks after smoking them at low temperature.
The Masterbuilt app connectivity carries over from the Gravity Series, giving you remote temperature monitoring and control. This is impressive technology at this price point and represents a genuine value for anyone wanting to try digital charcoal smoking without spending $900 or more.
Best For: First-Time Charcoal Smoker Buyers
If you have been using an electric smoker and want to step up to real charcoal flavor without the complexity of manual fire management, the AutoIgnite 545 is your entry point. It gives you digital charcoal smoking at roughly half the price of the Gravity Series 800.
Long-Term Reliability Questions
Because this is a newer model with limited reviews, long-term durability is unknown. The electronics (fan, control panel, proximity switches) are similar to those in the Gravity Series, which have had some reported failures. Consider the 1-year warranty and the availability of replacement parts before committing.
How to Choose the Best Masterbuilt Smoker for Your Needs?
Choosing between 10 different Masterbuilt smokers comes down to understanding your cooking style, budget, and what fuel type fits your situation. Here is how I break down the decision based on real user experiences and the data from over 20,000 combined reviews.
Fuel Type: Electric vs Propane vs Charcoal
Electric smokers are the easiest to use. You plug them in, set a temperature, and they maintain it automatically. They max out at 275F and need a power outlet, making them best for beginners and backyard cooks who want convenience. The Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric (MB20071117) is the standout pick here.
Propane smokers offer portability and higher temperatures. You can smoke anywhere with a propane tank, and the 15,400 BTU burners reach well above 300F. The trade-off is manual temperature management unless you get the ThermoTemp model. For off-grid use or higher-temperature cooking, propane is the answer.
Charcoal smokers in the Gravity Series deliver the strongest smoke flavor. They combine real charcoal with digital temperature control via the GravityFed hopper and DigitalFan system. These are the most expensive models but also the most versatile, with the 800 offering griddle cooking and the 1050 providing maximum capacity.
Cooking Capacity: 30-inch vs 40-inch
The 30-inch Masterbuilt smokers provide 710 to 725 square inches of cooking space, which is enough for most families. You can fit 6 chickens, 4 racks of ribs, or 4 pork butts. For weekly family meals and occasional gatherings, the 30-inch is plenty.
The 40-inch models jump to 960 to 970 square inches. That is enough for 16 chickens or 8 racks of ribs. If you regularly entertain large groups, do competition-style cooking, or batch-smoke for meal prep, the extra capacity is worth the additional cost and footprint.
The Gravity Series 1050 offers 1,050 square inches, making it the largest capacity option. The Gravity Series 800 at 800 square inches and the AutoIgnite 545 at 545 square inches round out the charcoal lineup.
Temperature Control: Digital vs Manual
All Masterbuilt electric smokers feature digital controls that let you set a specific temperature up to 275F. The smoker maintains that temperature automatically using its heating element. This is the most hands-off approach to smoking.
For propane, the standard MPS 230S uses manual flame adjustment with a built-in gauge for reference. The ThermoTemp 40-inch model adds automatic temperature regulation that keeps temps within 5 to 10 degrees of your setting. If you want propane convenience with automatic control, the ThermoTemp is worth the upgrade.
The Gravity Series and AutoIgnite use the DigitalFan system, which controls airflow to maintain precise charcoal temperatures. This gives you the temperature consistency of an electric smoker with the smoke intensity of real charcoal.
WiFi and App Connectivity
The Gravity Series 800, Gravity Series 1050, and AutoIgnite 545 all include WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity through the Masterbuilt app. You can monitor temperature, adjust settings, and track meat probe readings from your phone.
Forum users report mixed experiences with app reliability. Disconnections and reconnection requirements are common complaints. When the app works, it is genuinely useful for long cooks. When it does not, you can always use the physical control panel on the unit.
The electric and propane models do not include WiFi connectivity. If remote monitoring is important to you, the Gravity Series is your path forward in the Masterbuilt lineup.
Price Tiers and Value Recommendations
Under $250: The Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric (MB20071117) and MPS 230S Propane are the best budget options. Both deliver solid performance for the price.
$250 to $400: The EAST OAK 30-inch, the 30-inch with leg kit, and both 40-inch electric models sit in this range. The EAST OAK is the highest-rated option here.
$400 to $500: The ThermoTemp Propane and AutoIgnite 545 occupy this tier. The ThermoTemp offers better proven performance, while the AutoIgnite is newer but more affordable for digital charcoal.
$800 to $1,000: The Gravity Series 800 and 1050 are premium investments. The 800 offers more versatility with the griddle insert, while the 1050 provides maximum cooking space.
FAQs
Which Masterbuilt smoker is best for beginners?
The Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker (MB20071117) is the best choice for beginners. It features simple digital controls, a patented side wood chip loader that lets you add smoke without opening the door, and a forgiving temperature range up to 275F. With over 11,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, it has the strongest track record of any Masterbuilt model for new pitmasters.
Are Masterbuilt Gravity Series smokers better than electric models?
The Gravity Series delivers stronger smoke flavor because it uses real charcoal, while electric smokers use wood chips for a lighter smoke profile. Gravity Series models also reach much higher temperatures (up to 700F vs 275F for electric) and include WiFi app control. However, they cost significantly more ($899-$965 vs $219-$399) and require electricity to operate the digital controls and fan.
How long do wood chips last in a Masterbuilt electric smoker?
In standard Masterbuilt electric smokers, wood chips typically last 30 to 45 minutes per load in the side chip loader. You will need to refill several times during a long smoke. The EAST OAK 30-inch electric smoker addresses this with a design that provides 6x longer smoking time per wood chip load, significantly reducing the need for frequent refills.
Can you use a Masterbuilt electric smoker in cold weather?
Masterbuilt electric smokers can be used in cold weather, but performance is affected. The 800-watt heating element struggles to maintain 275F when ambient temperatures drop below 40F. Wind is especially problematic. For cold-weather smoking, consider the insulated ThermoTemp propane model or the Gravity Series, which generate more heat from charcoal combustion.
Is Masterbuilt a good smoker brand?
Masterbuilt is one of the most popular smoker brands for home use, with strong value pricing and a wide range of fuel types (electric, propane, and charcoal). Their electric smokers consistently rank as best-sellers on Amazon. The Gravity Series has won recognition for combining charcoal flavor with digital convenience. The main concerns are temperature consistency on larger electric models and electronic component reliability on Gravity Series units.
Final Thoughts on the Best Masterbuilt Smokers
After analyzing 10 models and over 20,000 combined reviews, the best Masterbuilt smokers come down to your cooking style and budget. For most backyard cooks, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker (MB20071117) delivers the best combination of value, ease of use, and proven reliability. If you want the highest-rated option, the EAST OAK 30-inch at 4.7 stars is tough to beat.
For those ready to invest in serious charcoal flavor with digital convenience, the Gravity Series 800 stands out as the most versatile option with its griddle insert, while the 1050 offers maximum cooking capacity. And for budget-conscious propane fans, the MPS 230S and ThermoTemp 40-inch deliver excellent off-grid smoking performance.
Whatever you choose, the best Masterbuilt smokers in 2026 make authentic barbecue accessible to cooks at every level. Pick the model that matches your fuel preference, capacity needs, and budget, and you will be smoking like a pitmaster in no time.