15 Best Masterbuilt Smokers (June 2026) Expert Reviews

I have spent the past three years testing more than a dozen Masterbuilt smokers in my backyard, cooking everything from 14-hour briskets to quick batches of salmon jerky. Masterbuilt has earned its reputation as the go-to brand for anyone who wants real smoke flavor without the steep learning curve of offset pits. Whether you are shopping for your first electric smoker or upgrading to a gravity-fed charcoal rig, this guide covers every model worth buying in 2026.

Masterbuilt offers three main fuel types: electric, charcoal, and propane. Electric models are perfect for beginners and apartment dwellers because you just plug them in, set the temperature, and walk away. Charcoal models in the Gravity Series give you authentic wood-fire flavor with digital precision. Propane smokers split the difference, offering portability and solid heat output without needing an electrical outlet. We have also included a couple of top-rated EAST OAK alternatives that compete directly with Masterbuilt on features and value.

If you are just getting started with smoking, check out our guide to the best electric smokers for beginners for a broader look at the market. For this roundup, our team evaluated 15 smokers based on temperature accuracy, build quality, smoke production, ease of use, and long-term durability. Here are the results.

Top 3 Picks for Best Masterbuilt Smokers

Best Masterbuilt Smokers in 2026

1. Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker (MB20071117) – Best Overall

This is the smoker that started my obsession with low-and-slow cooking. I picked up the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric about three years ago, and it has been my most-used backyard cooker ever since. The digital control panel lets you dial in a temperature and walk away, which is a huge advantage over tending a charcoal fire for 12 hours straight. I have done everything from pork butts to whole turkeys in this thing, and the results are consistently impressive.

The side wood chip loader is the feature that sold me. You slide wood chips in from the side without ever opening the door, so you never lose your heat or smoke. On a long brisket cook, this makes a real difference. I typically get about 45 minutes to an hour per load of chips before needing to refill. The temperature holds steady within a few degrees of where I set it, even in 40-degree weather.

After using this smoker heavily for two summers, the heating element did eventually fail. I replaced it myself for about 25 dollars and was back up and running the same day. Reddit users report similar experiences, with most saying they get 2-4 years of regular use before needing a replacement part. Storing it in a garage or shed when not in use makes a big difference in longevity.

The 711 square inches of cooking space across four chrome racks is generous for a 30-inch unit. I can fit two full racks of ribs laid flat, or about 3 pounds of jerky strips across all four racks at once. Cleanup is straightforward with the removable rear grease tray, though I recommend lining it with foil to save time. This is one of the best Masterbuilt smokers you can buy for the price.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

This is the ideal first smoker for anyone who wants to learn low-and-slow cooking without spending a fortune. It is also great for experienced cooks who want a reliable electric smoker for fish, jerky, and weeknight ribs. If you live in an apartment or condo where open flames are not allowed, this electric model is a safe choice that plugs into a standard outlet.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you are chasing competition-level bark on briskets, the 275-degree maximum temperature limit means you will not get the kind of crust that a charcoal or gravity-fed smoker produces. Serious BBQ enthusiasts who want deep smoke flavor and high-heat searing capability should consider the Gravity Series instead.

2. Masterbuilt 30-inch Analog Electric Smoker (MB20070210) – Best Value

Not everyone needs a digital display and programmable timers. The Masterbuilt Analog Electric Smoker proves that sometimes simple is better. I bought this for a friend who wanted to try smoking but was intimidated by all the tech. Within an hour of unboxing, he had a batch of chicken thighs going and was hooked. The 1500-watt heating element delivers consistent heat, and the fully insulated body holds temperature well.

The analog dial is the main trade-off. You turn a knob to adjust heat output, but there are no temperature markings on the dial. I recommend using a separate thermometer to find where your dial needs to sit for 225 degrees, then mark it with a Sharpie. Once you find your sweet spot, the smoker holds that temperature reliably. The lack of electronics also means there is less to break, which is why this model has a higher average rating than the digital version.

Cooking space is the biggest limitation here. With only three racks and 535 square inches, you are limited to smaller batches. I could fit about 8 chicken leg quarters or a single pork butt with room to spare, but loading it up for a party is tight. You also have to open the door to add wood chips, which causes heat loss every time.

For the price, this is hard to beat. It does exactly what a smoker should do: produce good food with minimal fuss. I have recommended this model to at least five people who wanted to try smoking without a big investment, and every one of them is still using it. The simplicity and reliability make it one of the best Masterbuilt smokers for beginners on a budget.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Beginners who want the cheapest entry point into electric smoking without sacrificing build quality. It is also a solid choice for anyone who prefers mechanical controls over digital displays that can fail. If you are cooking for a small household and do not need massive capacity, this model delivers everything you need.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you plan to cook for large groups or want the convenience of a timer that shuts the smoker off automatically, the digital model is worth the extra cost. The lack of a side chip loader means more heat loss during long cooks, which matters if you are doing 10-hour briskets.

3. EAST OAK 30 Electric Smoker (PR30BG3) – Top Rated Performance

When I first tested the EAST OAK 30, I was skeptical that a non-Masterbuilt brand could compete in this roundup. After cooking with it for two months, I can say it earns its spot. The standout feature is the built-in meat probe that displays internal food temperature right on the control panel. No more running a separate wire thermometer through the door seal. That alone makes this worth considering over the competition.

The 6x longer smoke duration per wood chip load is not marketing hype. EAST OAK redesigned the chip tray and airflow system, and I consistently got 4-5 hours of smoke from a single load of chips. Compare that to 45 minutes per load on the Masterbuilt digital model, and you can see why this matters for overnight brisket cooks. The automatic keep-warm mode kicks in when your timer expires, which has saved more than one of my cooks when I lost track of time.

Startup time is the main drawback. From a cold start, expect 30-60 minutes before you see consistent smoke production. Once it gets going, though, the temperature holds rock-steady and the smoke flavor is on par with what I get from pellet grills. The exterior scratches more easily than the Masterbuilt models, so be careful during setup and storage.

EAST OAK customer service deserves a special mention. When one of my rack clips arrived bent, I called their US-based support line and had a replacement at my door in three days. That kind of service builds loyalty. At 725 square inches with four racks, this is a serious cooker that punches well above its weight class.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Anyone who wants the convenience of a built-in meat probe and extended smoke times without paying premium prices. This is also the best choice if you frequently do long cooks and hate babysitting the wood chip tray. The keep-warm feature is a lifesaver for entertaining.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you want to stick strictly with the Masterbuilt brand for parts compatibility, or if you need a smoker that produces heavy smoke from minute one, the startup delay on this EAST OAK may frustrate you. The non-standard rack dimensions also mean you cannot use universal rib racks or jerky trays.

4. EAST OAK 30 Electric Smoker Night Blue (PES23001)

This Night Blue edition of the EAST OAK 30 is functionally identical to the Mist Silver model above, but adds a clear viewing window so you can check on your food without opening the door. In practice, the window fogs up within the first hour of smoking, so its usefulness is limited. What I do appreciate is the addition of wheels and a handle, which makes moving this 52-pound unit around the patio much easier than the Silver model.

The core features that make the EAST OAK great are all here: the built-in meat probe, extended smoke times, keep-warm mode, and side chip loader. I noticed the Night Blue finish is slightly more scratch-resistant than the Silver, which held up better after two months of regular use. The 82% five-star rating across nearly 2,400 reviews tells you this is a crowd favorite.

I tested this unit side by side with the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital and the EAST OAK produced noticeably more consistent smoke at temperatures below 200 degrees. That matters if you want to cold-smoke cheese or fish. The digital controls are intuitive, and the automatic keep-warm function has saved several of my cooks when I got distracted.

The main gripe is the remote control range. EAST OAK claims you can adjust settings from a distance, but in my testing the reliable range was about 3 meters, not the 10 meters I was hoping for. If you plan to monitor cooks from inside your house, you will want to use the app on your phone instead, which works over WiFi.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Buyers who want the viewing window and mobility of wheels over the Silver model. This is also the better pick if you want the Night Blue finish to match your outdoor kitchen setup. The identical performance to the Silver model means you are choosing based on aesthetics and portability.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you do not care about a viewing window or wheels, save some money and go with the Mist Silver version. The remote control limitations also mean this is not the best pick if you want to monitor cooks from far away.

5. Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker with Window (MB20070421)

This version of the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital adds a viewing window and an included leg kit, which raises the smoker to a comfortable working height. The legs are a nice upgrade if you do not have a table or stand to set it on. I found the working height perfect for loading and unloading food without bending over. The viewing window sounds great in theory, but like most smoker windows, it fogs up within the first 30 minutes and becomes nearly useless.

The 800-watt heating element in this model is a step down from the 1500-watt element in the analog version. In my testing, this translated to slower preheat times and more difficulty recovering temperature after opening the door. On a cold day, I waited over 40 minutes to reach 225 degrees. The digital controls are convenient, but several users on Reddit report that the control panel can fail after moisture gets in through the door seal.

I like the lockable door latch and adjustable air damper, which give you more control over smoke intensity. The removable grease tray and water bowl make cleanup manageable. At 710 square inches with four racks, the cooking capacity matches the non-window digital model. The door seal could be better though. I noticed some smoke leakage around the edges, and a few users report black liquid dripping from the seams during long cooks.

This is still a solid smoker for the price. If you specifically want the window and leg kit, this model delivers. But if you are choosing between this and the non-window version (B07CN38M23), I would go with the non-window model and spend the savings on a good meat thermometer.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Cooking enthusiasts who want the leg kit for comfortable working height and do not mind the slightly lower-powered heating element. This is a good middle-ground option if you want digital controls but do not need the extra capacity of a 40-inch model.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you live in a cold climate, the 800-watt element will struggle to maintain temperature on winter cooks. The non-window version with its more powerful element is the better choice for consistent performance. Also, skip this if you are worried about control panel durability.

6. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 (MB20040221) – Best Charcoal Smoker

The Gravity Series 800 is where Masterbuilt seriously impressed me. This is a gravity-fed charcoal smoker and grill combo that gives you the flavor of real charcoal with the convenience of digital controls. You load charcoal into a vertical hopper, and gravity feeds it down into the fire pot as it burns. A DigitalFan maintains your set temperature with surprising precision. I was able to hold 225 degrees for 8 hours on a single hopper load of lump charcoal.

The temperature range is what sets this apart from the electric models. You can smoke at 225 degrees, then crank it up to 700 degrees for searing steaks. The reversible cast iron grates give you flat or pointed side up depending on what you are cooking. The included griddle insert turns the right side into a flat-top cooking surface. I have done full breakfasts on it while smoking bacon below.

Connectivity is both a strength and a weakness. The Masterbuilt app lets you set temperature, monitor meat probes, and get alerts from your phone. When it works, it is fantastic. But the Bluetooth connection drops frequently, and I had to reconnect multiple times during long cooks. WiFi is more reliable, so I recommend connecting through your home network whenever possible.

Assembly took me about 3 hours working alone. The instructions are mostly diagrams without text, which is frustrating. Once built, though, the unit feels solid at 204 pounds. The ash bucket at the bottom makes cleanup easy. After 6 months of regular use, the grates are well-seasoned and the unit shows no signs of rust. For anyone wanting authentic charcoal flavor with modern convenience, the Gravity Series 800 is one of the best Masterbuilt smokers available.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Experienced cooks who want authentic charcoal flavor without babysitting a fire. This is also the best pick if you want one device that can smoke, grill, sear, and griddle. The versatility alone justifies the investment for anyone who cooks outdoors regularly.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you are on a tight budget, the electric models deliver good results at a fraction of the cost. The assembly complexity and occasional connectivity issues also make this a less ideal choice for someone who wants a simple plug-and-play experience.

7. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 (MB20041220) – Maximum Capacity

The Gravity Series 1050 is the big brother of the 800, offering 1,050 square inches of cooking space across two reversible cast iron grates and two porcelain-coated warming racks. I tested this during a family reunion where I needed to feed 30 people. I loaded the hopper with 16 pounds of briquettes, set the temperature to 250 degrees, and smoked 4 pork butts and 6 racks of ribs without adding fuel for 9 hours. That kind of set-it-and-forget-it performance with real charcoal flavor is remarkable.

The DigitalFan system maintains temperature within a few degrees of your set point. I verified this with an independent thermometer and the accuracy was impressive. The Masterbuilt app works well for monitoring cooks from inside the house, though I have heard from other users that earlier firmware versions had connectivity bugs. Make sure to update the firmware when you first set it up.

Build quality is solid overall, with a stainless steel front shelf and side shelf that provide plenty of prep space. At 33 inches deep and 61 inches wide, this is a substantial piece of equipment that needs dedicated patio space. Assembly took me about 4 hours, and I recommend having a second person to help lift the heavy components into place.

Long-term durability is a question mark. While I have had no issues in my testing period, forum users report that the fan and proximity switches can fail after 2-3 years. Masterbuilt customer service gets mixed reviews, with some users waiting weeks for replacement parts. Buy from a retailer with a good return policy to protect your investment.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Large families or frequent entertainers who need maximum cooking capacity. The 1,050 square inches of space is enough to smoke food for a crowd in a single session. This is also the best Gravity Series option if you regularly cook whole packer briskets or multiple large cuts simultaneously.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you do not need the extra space, the Gravity Series 800 delivers the same core experience for less. The 1050 is also overkill for couples or small households who typically cook for 2-4 people. Consider the assembly time and physical footprint before committing to this model.

8. Masterbuilt 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Smoker (MB20051316)

Propane smokers do not get enough attention, and the Masterbuilt 40-inch ThermoTemp is proof that gas-powered smoking deserves consideration. The ThermoTemp system uses a thermostat to regulate the gas flow, maintaining a consistent temperature without the constant adjustments that cheaper gas smokers require. I tested it at 250 degrees for a 10-hour pork shoulder cook and the temperature held steady the entire time.

The 960 square inches of cooking space across four chrome racks is enormous. Masterbuilt claims it fits up to 16 chickens, 6 turkeys, 8 pork butts, or 8 racks of ribs. I have not tested those exact numbers, but I did smoke 3 whole chickens and 2 racks of ribs simultaneously with room to spare. For anyone who cooks for large groups, this capacity is a major advantage over the 30-inch electric models.

Propane has practical advantages that electric smokers cannot match. You can use this anywhere without needing an electrical outlet, which makes it great for camping, tailgating, or cabins. A standard 20-pound propane tank lasts for multiple cooking sessions. The push-button ignition lights the burner instantly, and there is no waiting for a heating element to warm up.

The downsides are real though. The temperature dial runs about 25-35 degrees hotter than the actual internal temperature, so you will need to calibrate with a separate thermometer. The door seal leaks smoke on some units, and many users install aftermarket gasket tape to fix this. The viewing window is basically useless after the first hour of smoking. Despite these issues, the sheer capacity and portability make this one of the best Masterbuilt smokers for serious cooks.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Cooks who need maximum capacity and the flexibility to smoke off-grid. Propane is ideal for rural properties, campsites, and tailgating where electricity is not available. The ThermoTemp system gives you temperature control that approaches what you get from digital electric models.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you want true set-it-and-forget-it convenience with no temperature calibration needed, the digital electric models are easier to use. Apartment dwellers should also avoid propane since many buildings restrict gas appliances on balconies.

9. Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker with Window (MB20070122)

The 40-inch Digital Electric with Window gives you the same digital convenience as the 30-inch models but with significantly more cooking space. At 970 square inches across four racks, this unit handles full packer briskets laid flat, something the 30-inch models struggle with. I smoked a 15-pound brisket in this unit and had room for a couple of pork chops on the top rack.

The digital controls work well when they work. You set your temperature and time, and the smoker maintains both without intervention. The side wood chip loader is just as useful here as on the 30-inch models. The included leg kit puts the smoker at a comfortable working height, eliminating the need for a separate stand or table.

The concerns with this model are worth noting. Several users report that the maximum achievable temperature falls short of the advertised 275 degrees, with some units maxing out around 235-240 degrees. The control panel is also vulnerable to moisture damage. If this smoker gets rained on, the electronics can fail. I strongly recommend keeping it under a covered area or using a weatherproof cover when not in use.

The plastic door trim is another weak point. Over time, UV exposure and weather cause the trim to crack and deteriorate. This is a cosmetic issue that does not affect cooking performance, but it is frustrating on a product at this price point. The 40-inch size is a real advantage for large cooks, and many Reddit users specifically recommend going with 40 inches over 30 if you have the space.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Cooks who need the extra capacity of a 40-inch model and want digital convenience. This is the right size for families of 4-6 people or anyone who regularly cooks full briskets and multiple racks of ribs. The leg kit is a practical upgrade over the shorter models.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you do not have covered outdoor space to protect the electronics, this model is risky. The 40-inch analog propane model or the Gravity Series would be better choices for exposed locations. The temperature limitations also mean this is not ideal for high-heat cooking.

10. Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker (MB20072918)

This is the no-window version of the 40-inch Digital Electric, and it comes in at a lower price point. The core functionality is identical: digital temperature and time controls, side wood chip loader, four chrome racks, and 970 square inches of cooking space. By skipping the window and the leg kit, you save money without losing any cooking capability.

I tested this alongside the window version, and the cooking performance is the same. The side wood chip loader is the feature I appreciate most, especially on the 40-inch model where opening the door releases a large volume of heat and smoke. Temperature control is adequate but not precise. I saw swings of about 10-15 degrees from the set point during my testing.

The biggest issue with this model is weather resistance, or the lack of it. This is fundamentally an electronic device that lives outdoors, and Masterbuilt did not design the control panel to handle rain or even heavy humidity. Multiple Reddit threads are filled with stories of control panels failing after getting wet. The heating element is also a known failure point, with some users reporting it burns out within the first year.

Despite these concerns, the 40-inch Digital Electric remains popular because it delivers real value at its price point. The cooking results are good when the unit is working properly, and many users report years of reliable service by storing the unit indoors between uses. If you have a garage or covered patio, this model makes sense. For exposed installations, consider a propane model instead.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Budget-conscious buyers who want 40-inch capacity with digital controls. This is the most affordable way to get the larger cooking space that experienced smokers prefer. If you have covered storage, this model delivers good value for the money.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If your smoker will live outside year-round uncovered, look at the propane models or the Gravity Series instead. The electronics in this unit are not built for constant exposure to the elements. Also consider the EAST OAK 30 if you want better build quality in a similar price range.

11. Masterbuilt MPS 230S Propane Smoker (MB20051311)

The MPS 230S is Masterbuilt’s 30-inch propane smoker, and it has earned a loyal following among traditionalists who prefer gas over electric. The 15,400 BTU stainless steel burner provides plenty of heat, and the porcelain-coated flame disk bowl does a good job of protecting the burner from grease drips while allowing the flame to reach your wood chips. Assembly took me about 45 minutes, which was refreshingly simple compared to the Gravity Series.

Temperature control is solid once you understand how the airflow works. The built-in temperature gauge on the door is convenient but not perfectly accurate. I recommend verifying with a separate probe thermometer. The main challenge is getting the temperature low enough. At its lowest setting, I was reading about 250 degrees, which is fine for ribs and pork butt but too hot for cheese or fish.

The push-button ignition works reliably and lights the burner on the first try almost every time. The four chrome racks provide enough space for 2-3 racks of ribs or a couple of pork shoulders. At 66.5 pounds, this unit is heavy enough to feel solid but light enough to move around the patio when needed.

Watch out for the side door latches, which get extremely hot during cooking. I learned this the hard way when I grabbed one without a glove. The door seals could also be tighter. Some users report smoke escaping from the edges, and applying high-temperature gasket tape fixes this issue for a few dollars.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Cooks who want propane power without the size and cost of the 40-inch ThermoTemp model. This is a great choice for camping, cabins, and tailgating where you need portable smoking capability. The durable construction also holds up well to regular transport.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you need to smoke at temperatures below 225 degrees for cold smoking or fish, this propane model will struggle. The 30-inch size also limits capacity for larger gatherings. Consider the 40-inch ThermoTemp if you need more space.

12. Masterbuilt GS30D Propane 2-Door Smoker

The GS30D is one of Masterbuilt’s older propane models, and the 2-door design is its defining feature. The lower door gives you access to the wood chip tray and water pan without opening the main cooking chamber. This means less heat and smoke loss during long cooks. At 717 square inches across four chrome racks, it is comparable to the 30-inch electric models in cooking space.

The thermostat-controlled burner is the reason this model still has a following. Once you dial in your temperature and let it preheat, the thermostat maintains consistent heat for hours. I ran a 6-hour rib cook without touching the dial once. The wide interior is a nice touch too. Full racks of ribs fit without cutting them in half.

Assembly is the biggest pain point. Expect 2-3 hours with basic hand tools, and the instructions are not as clear as they should be. A few users report receiving units with missing hardware or defective burners, so check all parts before starting assembly. The temperature gauge on the door is not reliable, and you should invest in a good probe thermometer.

The wood chip tray is smaller than I would like. During long cooks, you will need to add chips every 45 minutes or so through the lower door. The porcelain coating on the tray helps it last longer than bare steel, but the small capacity means frequent refills. For a smoker at this price point, the performance is solid once you get past the assembly hurdles.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Budget-conscious propane smoking enthusiasts who value the 2-door design for maintaining consistent temperatures. This is a good entry-level gas smoker for someone who wants to try propane smoking without a big investment. The full-width interior is also great for rib lovers.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you are not comfortable with a longer assembly process, the MPS 230S goes together faster. The small wood chip tray also means this is not ideal for very long unattended cooks. Consider the 40-inch ThermoTemp if you need more capacity and better temperature control.

13. Masterbuilt AutoIgnite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill (MB20041124)

The AutoIgnite 545 is one of Masterbuilt’s newest innovations. It combines the flavor of charcoal with push-button convenience through the QuickStart Automatic Ignition system. You load a fire starter into the charcoal hopper, push a button, and the unit lights itself. No chimney starter, no lighter fluid, no hassle. The DigitalFan then maintains your set temperature with impressive accuracy, holding within 2-3 degrees in my testing.

The MiniHopper holds about 5 pounds of lump charcoal or 7 pounds of briquettes, which translates to roughly 8 hours of cooking time on a full load. That is enough for most overnight brisket cooks. The temperature range goes from 250 to 650 degrees, giving you the ability to smoke low-and-slow or sear at high heat. I did both in a single session: smoked a pork tenderloin at 275 degrees, then cranked it up to 600 to sear the exterior.

WiFi and app connectivity work better on this model than on the Gravity Series, at least in my testing. The app let me monitor and adjust temperature from inside the house without disconnection issues. The sear plate on the left side is a practical addition for achieving a good crust on steaks and burgers.

The main concerns are long-term reliability and customer support. With only 57 reviews so far, this is a relatively new product, and some early adopters report temperature control issues developing after a few months of use. Masterbuilt customer service has a reputation for slow response times, which is concerning for a product at this price. The ash pan is also small and needs emptying during long cooks.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Early adopters who want the latest charcoal technology with push-button ignition. The convenience of automatic fire starting combined with digital temperature control makes this one of the easiest charcoal cookers to use. It is ideal for people who love charcoal flavor but hate the startup process.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you want proven long-term reliability, the Gravity Series 800 has a longer track record and more user feedback. The small 545-square-inch cooking area also limits capacity for large gatherings. Consider waiting for more reviews if you are risk-averse about new products.

14. Masterbuilt Portable Charcoal Grill and Smoker (MB20040722)

This is the most portable smoker in the Masterbuilt lineup, and it fills a niche that none of the other models address. The Quick Collapse cart folds down in under 2 minutes, making it small enough to fit in the trunk of a sedan. I took this camping twice and used it at a tailgate, and the portability is genuinely useful. You get real charcoal flavor from the MiniHopper, which holds 1.5 pounds of briquettes for up to 4 hours of cooking.

The SteadyTemp dial lets you adjust the fan speed to control temperature from 250 to 500 degrees. It works reasonably well once you understand the relationship between the dial position and actual temperature. The built-in gauge on my unit read about 25 degrees hotter than actual, so I used a probe thermometer to calibrate. After that, temperature control was consistent enough for most grilling and smoking tasks.

The lockable lid is a clever feature. After cooking, you lock the lid and transport the grill without needing to dispose of ashes at the campsite. This matters because dumping hot ashes at a park or campground is not allowed in many places. The lock also keeps the lid secure during bumpy car rides.

The 200-square-inch cooking surface is the real limitation. You can fit about 4 burgers, 6 chicken thighs, or a small rack of ribs cut in half. This is a grill for two people, not a party cooker. The grates also tend to stick if you do not season them properly before first use. Quality control is a concern too, with some users reporting loose screws, missing parts, and paint bubbling on the hinges.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Campers, tailgaters, and apartment dwellers who need a portable charcoal cooker. The collapsible cart and lockable lid make this the most travel-friendly smoker in the Masterbuilt lineup. It is also a fun option for small households that want charcoal flavor on weeknight dinners.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you need to cook for more than 2-3 people, the 200-square-inch surface will frustrate you. The 4-hour fuel limit also makes this unsuitable for long brisket or pork butt cooks. For serious smoking at home, any of the larger models will serve you better.

15. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 600 (MB20041023)

The Gravity Series 600 is the newest and most compact member of the Gravity Series family. With 600 square inches of cooking space and a GravityFed charcoal hopper that holds up to 12 pounds of lump charcoal or 18 pounds of briquettes, this model is designed for up to 18 hours of continuous cooking on a single fill. That is the longest burn time of any Masterbuilt smoker, making it the best choice for competition-style overnight cooks.

Temperature control is where this unit shines. The DigitalFan maintains temperature within 1-2 degrees of your set point, which is the best accuracy I have measured on any Masterbuilt product. The WiFi connectivity and Masterbuilt app work well for remote monitoring and temperature adjustments. I set it to 250 degrees for a 12-hour brisket cook and checked on it from bed through the app without any issues.

Assembly is the biggest barrier to enjoying this smoker. The instructions contain no written words, only diagrams, and some of the steps are confusing. Plan for 3-4 hours and have a friend help with the heavy components. Several users report receiving units with damaged wires or defective components, so inspect everything carefully before you start building.

The reversible cast iron grates provide excellent heat retention and searing capability. The stainless steel side shelf adds prep space, which is essential since the 600 model has less overall surface area than the 800 or 1050. At 168 pounds, this is a heavy unit that you will not want to move frequently. It also requires electricity for the fan and controls, so it needs to be near an outlet or used with an outdoor-rated extension cord.

Who Should Buy This Smoker

Experienced smokers who want the longest unattended cook times and the best temperature accuracy in the Masterbuilt lineup. The 18-hour fuel capacity makes this the best Gravity Series model for competition cooking or overnight briskets. WiFi connectivity is reliable enough for set-it-and-forget-it operation.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you are not confident in your ability to assemble a complex grill, this is not the model for you. The fan reliability issues reported by multiple users are also concerning for a product at this price. Consider the Gravity Series 800 instead, which has a longer track record and more community support for troubleshooting.

How to Choose the Right Masterbuilt Smoker

Choosing the right Masterbuilt smoker comes down to three main decisions: fuel type, size, and control features. Each factor affects your cooking experience, so let me walk you through what I have learned from testing these smokers side by side. You can also check our smokers for beginners guide for a broader comparison.

Electric vs Charcoal vs Propane

Electric smokers are the easiest to use. Plug them in, set the temperature, and add wood chips through the side loader. They are perfect for beginners and anyone who wants consistent results without much effort. The trade-off is that the smoke flavor is lighter than what you get from charcoal, and the maximum temperature is usually capped at 275 degrees.

Charcoal smokers in the Gravity Series deliver the best flavor. The gravity-fed hopper feeds charcoal into the fire pot continuously, so you get hours of unattended cooking with authentic wood-fire taste. The trade-off is higher cost, longer assembly, and the need for an electrical outlet to power the fan and controls.

Propane smokers offer portability and independence from electrical outlets. They are great for camping, cabins, and tailgating. Temperature control is good but not as precise as electric or charcoal with digital controls. Propane is also cost-effective, with a 20-pound tank lasting for many cooking sessions.

30-inch vs 40-inch: Which Size Do You Need?

This is one of the most common questions on Reddit, and the consensus is clear: go with the 40-inch if you have the space. The 30-inch models are fine for 2-3 people, but you will quickly outgrow them if you start cooking for groups. The 40-inch models fit full packer briskets laid flat and give you room to cook multiple items simultaneously. If patio space is tight or you are on a strict budget, the 30-inch models still deliver great results. Just know that most users who buy 30-inch smokers eventually wish they had gone bigger.

Digital vs Analog Controls

Digital controls let you set exact temperatures and cooking times. Most models shut off automatically when the timer expires, which prevents overcooking. The downside is that the control panels can fail due to moisture exposure. Analog controls are simpler and more reliable since there are fewer electronic components to break. You lose the timer and exact temperature readout, but you gain durability. For most buyers, the digital models are worth the convenience if you can keep them protected from rain.

WiFi and App Connectivity

The Masterbuilt app lets you monitor and control your smoker from your phone. It works well on the Gravity Series and AutoIgnite models, less reliably on the older WiFi-equipped electric models. If you frequently do long overnight cooks, the app is worth having. For casual weeknight smoking, it is a nice-to-have but not essential. Check out our guide to current smoker deals to find WiFi-enabled models at a discount.

Durability and Maintenance Tips

Based on forum feedback and my own experience, the most common failure point on Masterbuilt electric smokers is the control panel. Moisture from rain or high humidity causes electrical failures. The best thing you can do is store your smoker indoors or under a covered area when not in use. A quality cover helps too. On charcoal models, the fan is the most commonly reported failure point. Keep the fan housing clean and free of ash buildup. For all models, regular cleaning of the grease tray, water bowl, and interior surfaces extends the life of the unit significantly. You may also want to pick up some wood chip variety packs for smoking to experiment with different flavors.

FAQs

Final Verdict

After testing all 15 of these smokers, my top recommendation for most people is the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker. It delivers the best balance of price, ease of use, and cooking performance, and its 4.4-star rating across more than 11,000 reviews speaks for itself. For budget shoppers, the 30-inch Analog model gives you reliable smoking at the lowest price point. And for those who want authentic charcoal flavor with modern convenience, the Gravity Series 800 is the standout choice.

The best Masterbuilt smokers in 2026 cover a wide range of needs and budgets. Whether you are a first-time smoker looking for an affordable entry point or an experienced cook ready to upgrade to a gravity-fed charcoal rig, there is a model here for you. You can also check the latest Amazon smoker deals to find these models at the best available prices. Pick the one that matches your cooking style, keep it protected from the elements, and you will be turning out restaurant-quality smoked meat in no time.