Welcome to the wonderful world of smoking!
For a beginner, we understand that choosing the right one for your first venture can feel overwhelming with so many options in the market.
After in-depth research across many factors such as types, features, price ranges, ease of use, etc., we have put together a comprehensive guide to help you find “the one” smoker that suits your needs and requirements.
Best Smokers for Beginners (At a Glance)
| BEST OVERALL | BEST VALUE | |||
 Weber Smokey Mountain 18’’ Charcoal Smoker |  Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill 22’’ |  Masterbuilt Gravity 800 Charcoal Smoker |  Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Charcoal Smoker |  Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 24 Pellet Smoker |
| Pros: (+) Easy to use (+) Budget-friendly (+) Excellent smoke penetration (+) Compact size (+) Simple to maintain | Pros: (+) Simple & straightforward (+) Great value for its price (+) Versatile (+) Portable (+) Durable construction | Pros: (+) Versatile (+) Good Smoke Flavor (+) Easy to Use | Pros: (+) Excellent heat retention (+) Versatility (+) Portability (+) Affordable for a Kamado Smoker | Pros: (+) Easy to use (+) Versatile fuel options (+) Large capacity (+) Convenient features (+) Durable construction |
| Cons: (-) Requires temperature management (-) Thermometer issues (-) Flimsy door | Cons: (-) Requires temperature management (-) Limited cooking space (-) Flimsy Wheels | Cons: (-) Higher price point (-) Possible technical issues (-) Assembly can be time-consuming | Cons: (-) Temperature learning curve (-) Possible rust issues (-) Relatively heavy | Cons: (-) Relatively expensive (-) Small smoke box size |
| CHECK PRICE | CHECK PRICE | CHECK PRICE | CHECK PRICE | CHECK PRICE |
Taking a Deep Dive into the Recommended Smokers
1. Weber Smokey Mountain Charcoal Smoker (Best Smoker Overall)
Overview: Weber Smokey Mountain Charcoal Smoker is popular for its affordability, and ability to produce classic smoky flavor. While requiring some practice for temperature management, it’s a popular choice for beginners seeking a budget-friendly entry point into the world of charcoal smoking.
Basic Specs:
| Fuel source | Charcoal |
| Size (HxWxD) | 41x 21×19 in |
| Grilling Area | 481 sq in |
| Capacity | Fits 4 packs of ribs or 2 briskets or 4 pork butts or 4 chickens or 8 rolled racks of baby back ribs |
| Fuel capacity | 13 lbs |
| Weight | 39 lbs |
| Material | Alloy steel (Outside), stainless steel (Inside) with ceramic-enameled lid |
| Special features | Bluetooth connection, Mobile app |
| Warranty period | 2-10 years depending on the parts |
| Price | $300 – $420 |
| Reviews | 4.7 (+3,500 reviews from Amazon) |
Note: Prices and ratings may change over time. Please check the retailer websites for the latest information.
Pros & Cons:
Pros
- Easy to Use: Straightforward design and operation. Assembly is generally considered simple.
- Affordable: A fantastic value for beginners on a budget.
- Excellent Smoke Flavor: Delivers the robust, smoky taste that charcoal smoking is known for.
- Compact Size: Suitable for limited spaces
- Stable Temperature: Individual vents on bowl and lid for better temperature management.
- Simple to Maintain: Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Requires Practice for Temperature Management: Not a “set-and-forget” option like electric or pellet.
- Thermometer Issues: Some users found the built-in thermometer to be ineffective.
- Flimsy Door: Some users reported the door does not shut properly.
2. Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill 22’’ (Best Value Smoker)
Overview: Weber Kettle Grill starts as a charcoal grill, but it can be transformed into a smoker with the addition of a smoking accessory kit. Its affordability and user-friendly design also make it an attractive entry point for new users.
Basic specs:
| Fuel source | Charcoal |
| Size (HxWxD) | 27×22.5×22.5 in |
| Grilling Area | 363 sq. in |
| Weight | 32.3 lbs |
| Material | Porcelain with Aluminum frame |
| Special features | One-Touch Cleaning System, Lid Thermometer |
| Warranty period | 5 years limited |
| Price | $ 200 – $300 |
| Reviews | 4.8 (+6,600 reviews from Amazon) |
Note: Prices and ratings may change over time. Please check the retailer websites for the latest information.
Pros & Cons:
Pros
- Simple & Straightforward: Simple and easy to assemble, operate and clean.
- Cost-Effective: Offers great value for its price.
- Versatile: While primarily a grill, the ability to add a smoker kit (sold separately) expands its functionality.
- Portable: Compact size with 3 wheels for easy moving
Durable Construction: Built with Weber’s renowned quality for long-lasting use.
Cons
- Requires Temperature Management for Smoking: Similar to the Weber Smokey Mountain, this method requires some practice for beginners.
- Limited cooking space: May be not enough for large gatherings.
- Flimsy Wheels: May limit mobility on rough surfaces.
3. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Charcoal Smoker
Overview: The Masterbuilt Gravity Series offers the best of both worlds for a starter smoker: charcoal smoky flavor and user-friendly operation. This innovative smoker uses a gravity-fed charcoal hopper for hands-off temperature control while delivering delicious smoky results.
Basic specs:
| Fuel source | Charcoal |
| Size (HxWxD) | 50.9×55.1×30.5 in |
| Grilling Area | 450 sq. in |
| Cooking Capacity | 6 racks of ribs or 12 chickens or 57 sausages |
| Fuel capacity | 10lbs of lump charcoal or 16lbs of briquettes |
| Weight | 204 lbs |
| Material | Iron (Outside), Stainless steel (Inside) |
| Special features | Wifi connection, Mobile app, Digital temperature control |
| Warranty period | 1 year limited |
| Price | $800 – $1000 |
| Reviews | 4.1 (+190 reviews from Amazon) |
Note: Prices and ratings may change over time. Please check the retailer websites for the latest information.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Versatile: Smokes and grills, offering more cooking options.
- Good Smoke Flavor: Delivers a better smoky taste to your food than a typical pellet
- Easy to Use with Gravity-Fed Hopper and Automatic temperature control: Reduces the need for constant charcoal monitoring compared to traditional charcoal smokers.
Cons
- Higher Price Point: Slightly more expensive than some electric or basic charcoal smokers.
- Possible Technical Issues: Some users reported the control system fails to work.
- Assembly Can Be Time-Consuming: Some customers found the assembly challenging and recommend having an extra hand
4. Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Charcoal Smoker
Overview: The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Charcoal Smoker is a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive ceramic kamado grills. It has a unique design for heat retention and fuel efficiency.
Basic specs:
| Fuel source | Charcoal |
| Size (HxWxD) | 47x31x45 in |
| Grilling Area | 445 sq. in |
| Weight | 97 lbs |
| Material | Ceramic coated stainless steel with alloy steel frame |
| Special features | Removable ash pan |
| Warranty period | 5 years limited |
| Price | $300 – $400 |
| Reviews | 4.6 (+3,500 reviews from Amazon) |
Note: Prices and ratings may change over time. Please check the retailer websites for the latest information.
Pros & Cons:
Pros
- Great Heat Retention: Constructed from triple-walled steel with insulation, it maintains consistent temperatures and controlled charcoal usage.
- Versatility: Doubles as a smoker, making it perfect for low-and-slow cooking as well as high-heat grilling. Its adjustable dampers enable users to regulate airflow easily.
- Portability: Relatively lightweight and equipped with sturdy wheels, making it easy to move around the patio or backyard.
- Affordable for a Kamado Smoker: Offers kamado-style benefits at a more beginner-friendly price.
Cons
- Temperature Learning Curve: Requires practice to master temperature control.
- Possible Rust Issues: The cast iron grates need to be well seasoned to avoid rusting.
5. Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 24 Pellet Smoker
While the charcoal smokers delivers great smoke flavor, it requires a bit of a learning curve for temperature management. Therefore, it is worth mentioning, in the Top 5 smokers for beginners, a pellet one that is quite a “set and forget” option.
Overview: The Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 24 Pellet Smoker is one of the best mid-range pellet smokers. Not only this smoker makes the cooking so easy with the user-friendly automated temperature control, it also offers a smoke box feature that gives you a deeper smoke flavor compared to other pellet smokers.
Basic specs:
| Fuel source | Pellet/Wood chips/Wood chunks/Charcoal |
| Size (HxWxD) | 44.5x50x26 in |
| Grilling Area | 811 sq. in |
| Fuel Capacity | 22 lbs |
| Weight | 152 lbs |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Special features | Wifi connection + Mobile App, Ash Cleanout |
| Warranty period | 1-6 years depending on the parts |
| Price | $1200 – $1500 |
| Reviews | 4.4 (+29 reviews from Amazon) |
Note: Prices and ratings may change over time. Please check the retailer websites for the latest information.
Pros & Cons:
Pros
- Pellet Convenience: User-friendly and automated temperature control.
- Enhanced wood flavor: The Smoke box allows you to incorporate pellets, wood chunks, chips, or even charcoal.
- Wide Temperature Range: Allows both low & slow smoking and hot & fast techniches.
- Large Capacity: The 811 square inches of cooking space provides ample room for smoking larger cuts of meat or feeding a crowd.
- Convenient Features: a side shelf for food preparation, a pellet hopper cleanout system for easy maintenance, and a patented ash cleanout system for hassle-free ash removal.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials
Cons
- Higher Price Point: compared to basic electric or charcoal smokers. Consider the tradeoff between quality, features, and price before investing.
- Small smoke box size: Needs to reload every hour or so.
6. Honorable Mention – The Pit Barrel Cooker (PBC) 18.5″ Drum Smoker
Overview: The Pit Barrel Cooker 18.5 Inch Drum Smoker represents a simple yet classic approach to smoking, characterized by its drum-shaped design. It is a solid option for those who prioritize bold smoke flavor and a straightforward smoking experience. However, those who require precise temperature control may want to consider a smoker with more advanced features.
Basic specs:
| Fuel source | Charcoal |
| Size (HxWxD) | 31.1x21x21 x in |
| Grilling Area | 260 sq. in + hanging space |
| Cooking Capacity | 8 Racks of Ribs, 2-3 Pork Butts/Shoulders or Briskets, Turkey Hangers allow for 2 13-16 lb Turkeys |
| Weight | 57 lbs |
| Material | Porcelain enameled steel |
| Warranty period | 1 year limited |
| Price | $400-$450 |
| Reviews | 4.8 (+1,200 reviews from Amazon) |
Note: Prices and ratings may change over time. Please check the retailer websites for the latest information.
Pros & Cons:
Pros
- Easy to Use: The design is incredibly user-friendly and straightforward.
- Excellent Smoke Flavor: The vertical hanging design and efficient airflow promote even smoke distribution and deep smoke penetration.
- Durable Construction: With porcelain enamel steel and simple design.
- Increased Capacity: The hook-and-hang system allows for more meat to be cooked simultaneously.
- Fuel Efficient: Requires less charcoal compared to some smokers.
Cons
- Limited Temperature Control: Due to the lack of dampers, precise temperature control can be challenging. This might not be ideal for those who prefer low and slow smoking techniques.
- Inconvenient Charcoal Reloading: Some may have to reload the charcoal during cooking which requires removing the meat and reaching the charcoal basket at the bottom of the barrel.
How to choose a smoker
Before you try to buy one of above models, you may want to:
Understanding Smoker Type
Each type has its own pros and cons. Understanding the different types of smokers and their characteristics allows you to choose the one that best fits your preferences and needs.
Categorized by heat source
Electric Smokers: Electric smokers use electricity to power a heating element and create smoke wood chips. Electric smokers are among the easiest choices for beginners.
Pros
- Easy to use with set-and-forget controls
- Consistent temperature maintenance
- Can be used in open balcony/patio
- Cost effective as electricity is relatively cheaper than coals or woods
Cons
- Produces a mild smoke flavor compared to other types of smokers
- Issues reaching high temperatue, not be ideal for all types of smoking (hot and fast)
- No smoke ring
- Possible technical issues
Best electric smoker for beginners: Masterbuilt 30 Digital Electric Smoker | Bradley Smoker Original
Pellet Smokers: Pellet smokers use wood pellets as fuel, which are automatically fed into a firepot by an auger. While pellets smokers are one of the easiest for beginners, they may require a slightly higher investment upfront.
Pros
- Easy to use with digital controls
- Consistent temperature maintenance
- Wide range of temperature
- Offering a wide range of cooking options – grill, smoke, roast, and bake
Cons
- Tend to be more expensive than other types of smokers
- Requires electricity to run the auger and control panel
- May not have the same smoky flavor as charcoal or wood
- Possible technical issues with the digital control
Best pellet smoker for beginners: Camp Chef Woodwind Pro (mentioned above) | Traeger Grills Pro Series 22
Charcoal Smokers: Charcoal smokers are the traditional approach to barbeque. They use charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal as fuel, along with wood chunks or chips to produce smoke.
Pros
- Generally more affordable than pellets
- Authentic deep smoke flavor and great smoke ring
- Versatile – can be used for smoking, grilling and searing
- Less issues thanks to basic construction
Cons
- Requires practice for temperature control
- Needs more time and effort for cooking
- Produces more ash and requires more cleanup than gas or electric smokers
Best charcoal smoker for beginners: Weber Smokey Mountain | Weber Kettle| Masterbuilt Gravity | Char-Griller Akorn Kamado (all mentioned above)
Gas Smokers: Gas smokers use propane or natural gas as a heat source and wood for smoke flavor.
Pros
- Easy to use with quick start-up
- Adjustable temperature control
- Requires less attention than charcoal smokers
Cons
- Produces a milder smoke flavor compared to charcoal or wood
- May not be ideal for all types of smoking (low and slow)
- Needs space for the gas tank
Best gas smoker for beginners: Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24" | Cuisinart Vertical Propane Smoker
Other smoker types categorized by design
- Gravity Fed Charcoal Smokers:
- These smokers utilize a gravity-fed hopper system for hands-off charcoal temperature control. It gives you a blend of great smoke flavor from charcoal with the convenience of a pellet grill.
- Consider: Masterbuilt Gravity Series Charcoal Smoker
- Bullet Smokers:
- A bullet smoker, also known as a vertical smoker, is compact and ideal for small spaces. Known for its efficiency and portability, it’s great for achieving a traditional smoky flavor.
- Temperature management can be tricky due to limited airflow adjustments
- Consider: Weber Smokey Mountain Charcoal Smoker
- Drum Smokers:
- They use a barrel-shaped design with meat hung inside for even smoke distribution.
- Simple to use with minimal controls, they excel at delivering bold smoke flavor.
- However, precise temperature control can be tricky
- Consider: Pit Barrel Cooker, Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco Smoker
- Kettle Smokers:
- These adaptable grills can be transformed into smokers with the addition of a smoking kit.
- Consider: Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill
- Kamado Smokers:
- These egg-shaped ceramic cookers is known for heat retention and fuel efficiency.
- They can deliver consistent temperatures and smoky results.
- Consider: Char-Griller Akorn Kamado, Big Green Egg
- Offset Smokers:
- These smokers consist of a firebox connected to a separate smoking chamber, offering temperature control and a traditional smoking experience.
- They require time commitment and learning curve.
- Consider: Oklahoma Joe’s Highland, Yoder Loaded Wichita
Interested in vertical pellet smokers? See this post: Best Vertical Pellet Smokers 2024 – The Refined List
Choosing the Right Smoker for You
What’s the best smoker for beginners? We believe there’s no single “best” smoker; it all boils down to your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a detailed breakdown of key factors to consider when selecting your smoky companion:
- Budget:
- Electric and charcoal smokers tend to be the most budget-friendly options. Pellet smokers offer convenience but come with a higher price tag. Kamado smokers are known for their efficiency and durability, but reflect that quality in their cost.
- Lower budget typically comes with more limitation of quality and features. Consider making a priority list of your requirements to find the most suitable one within your budget.
- Do not forget to consider both the initial purchase price and ongoing expenses like fuel costs (charcoal, pellets, etc.) when making your decision.
- Time and Effort Commitment:
- How much time and effort are you willing to dedicate to the smoking process?
- Electric and pellet smokers offer a “set-and-forget” approach, ideal for busy schedules. Charcoal smokers require more hands-on temperature management, but reward you with the satisfaction of a more traditional barbeque experience.
- Smoke Flavor Preference:
- Is smoke flavor your “must” factor?
- Electric, gas and pellet smokers produce a milder smoke compared to charcoal smokers.
- Space and Portability:
- Do you have a dedicated outdoor space for your smoker, or are you looking for something balcony-friendly? Electric smokers are usually more compact and can be used on a balcony.
- How much space do you have available?
- If you plan to move the smoker regularly, consider its weight and whether it has wheels.
- Cooking Capacity:
- How many people do you plan to feed? How much food do you envision smoking at once?
- The rule of thumb here is to choose one size bigger than your expected need if your space allows.
- Temperature Range:
- Think about the range of temperatures you need for your desired cooking techniques.
- If you plan on experimenting with hot and fast recipes like wings, a smoker that can reach higher temperatures is ideal.
- Conversely, for classic low and slow smoking of brisket or ribs, a smoker that excels in maintaining consistent low temperatures is key.
- Versatility:
- Do you want a smoker that can do both grilling and smoking?
- Kettle and kamado smokers can be used for grilling and searing in addition to smoking, offering greater cooking flexibility.
- Types of Meats:
- Different smokers excel at specific types of meat.
- Charcoal smokers are fantastic for large cuts like brisket that benefit from low and slow cooking. Electric smokers are well-suited for delicate fish and poultry.
- Consider your favorite cuts and choose a smoker that can deliver optimal results.
- Material and Build Quality:
- Consider the material (stainless steel, porcelain, etc.) and build quality as they affect durability, heat retention, and overall performance.
- Generally, a high-end smoker would have better materials and build quality.
- Special Features:
- Some smokers come with more advanced features like Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity; or removable ash pans or grease trays that make cleaning simpler.
- These features can impact your smoking experience, but come at a cost. Focus on core needs. Consider which features are truly important to you and prioritize accordingly.
- Warranty and Customer Service:
- Peace of mind is priceless.
- Look for a smoker with a good warranty and a company known for reliable customer service. This ensures you’re covered in case of any issues down the line.
We have summarized these factors for 4 common types of smokers in the table below:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
1. What is the easiest type of smoker for beginners to use?
Electric smokers are often considered the easiest type for beginners due to their simple operation. They typically feature digital controls for temperature regulation, eliminating the need for constant monitoring and adjustment. However, they produce the least smoke flavor so consider what is your priority.
2. What are some beginner-friendly foods to smoke?
Great choices for smoking beginners include:
- Whole chickens
- Pork shoulder (pulled pork)
- Salmon fillets
- Bone-in pork chops
- Burgers
These cuts are forgiving and produce delicious results with minimal fuss.
3. Can I use different types of wood chips or pellets in my smoker, and how does it affect the flavor of the food?
Yes, you can use a variety of wood chips or pellets in your smoker to impart different flavors to your food. Common options include hickory, mesquite, apple, cherry, and pecan. Experimenting with different wood types allows you to customize the flavor profile of your smoked dishes, from mild and sweet to bold and smoky.
4. How do I clean and maintain my smoker?
Cleaning and maintaining your smoker is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Refer to your smoker’s manual for specific cleaning instructions. Generally, this involves removing food debris after each use and performing a more thorough cleaning periodically.
Tips for Beginner Smokers:
- Start simple: Don’t be intimidated by complex recipes. Begin with basic cuts of meat and experiment as you gain confidence.
- Practice makes perfect: Smoking requires practice to master temperature control and achieve the desired results. Don’t get discouraged by initial setbacks.
- Invest in a good quality thermometer: An accurate thermometer is essential for monitoring food temperatures and ensuring safe smoking practices.
- Use quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the flavor of your smoked food.
- Have fun and experiment! Smoking is a rewarding culinary adventure. Embrace the learning process and enjoy the delicious results.
Conclusion
Choosing the right smoker is the first step on your exciting smoking journey and it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We hope that this guide has been useful in helping you navigate the world of smokers. Remember, the best smoker for you is one that fits your needs while allowing you to learn and grow in the art of smoking.
Related search: Best beginner smoker, best starter smoker, best smoker under 500, good offset smokers
Winston here from Iowa.
All the best.
Just what I needed, thanks. I couldn’t decide between charcoal or pellet. Now I think I will go for the charcoal. Love the WSM.
Do share your smoking journey with us!
OK I’m tempted to buy the Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 24. Have read so many positive reviews about it.