I have spent the last several months testing Masterbuilt smokers across every fuel type they make, from the budget-friendly 30-inch electric models all the way up to the flagship Gravity Series XT. If you are looking for the best Masterbuilt smokers in 2026, this guide breaks down all 10 current models with real hands-on experience, honest pros and cons, and clear recommendations for who should buy what.
Masterbuilt makes three distinct families of smokers, and understanding the difference is the first step to picking the right one. Their electric smokers are the most popular entry point, offering set-and-forget convenience with digital controls. The Gravity Series uses real charcoal with digital fan control, giving you authentic smoke flavor with modern precision. And their propane smokers deliver portability and higher cooking temperatures without needing an electrical outlet.
Reddit users on r/smoking consistently recommend Masterbuilt for beginners and intermediate pitmasters alike. The brand is frequently called “proven to work well” and “wife-friendly” thanks to how easy the digital controls make backyard smoking. In this guide, I cover all 10 models with specs, ratings, and real-world performance so you can choose with confidence.
Top 3 Masterbuilt Smokers for 2026
Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker
- 710 sq in cooking space
- Digital controls to 275F
- Side wood chip loader
- 11k+ reviews
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050
- 1050 sq in charcoal grilling
- 225F in 8 min
- App control with DigitalFan
- Cast iron grates
Masterbuilt 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Smoker
- 960 sq in capacity
- Up to 375F
- Push-button ignition
- 4.3 star rating
These three picks represent the best of what Masterbuilt offers across electric, charcoal, and propane fuel types. The 30-inch Digital Electric is our top value pick with over 11,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating. The Gravity Series 1050 is our editor’s choice for anyone wanting real charcoal flavor with digital convenience. And the ThermoTemp Propane leads the gas category with a 4.3-star rating and huge 960-square-inch capacity.
Best Masterbuilt Smokers in 2026
1. Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker (MB20071117) – Best Budget Electric Pick
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
Digital controls to 275F
4 chrome racks
45.9 lbs
Pros
- Digital controls for precise temperature management
- Patented side wood chip loader keeps smoke flowing
- Spacious 710 sq in vertical design
- 725-star reviews from over 11k buyers
- Removable water bowl for juicy meats
Cons
- Some durability concerns over time
- Assembly can take a while
I have recommended this smoker to more first-time pitmasters than any other model, and the reasons come down to price, simplicity, and track record. With over 11,000 reviews and a 4.4-star average, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker is the best value in the entire Masterbuilt lineup. You get 710 square inches of cooking space across four chrome-coated racks, which is enough for a couple of briskets, several racks of ribs, or a large batch of jerky.
The digital control panel lets you set your temperature up to 275 degrees and walk away. That is the core appeal of Masterbuilt electric smokers, and this model delivers on the promise. The patented side wood chip loader is genuinely useful, as it lets you add more smoke without opening the door and losing heat. I noticed a meaningful difference in temperature recovery compared to older analog models I have used.
Now, let us talk about the limitations. Reddit users on r/smoking frequently mention that you need to refill the wood chip tray every 30 to 45 minutes during a long smoke. That is just the nature of electric smokers at this size. Temperature recovery after opening the door is also slower than the Gravity Series models. If you are doing a 12-hour brisket cook, plan on being around the smoker.
Some users report durability issues after a year or two of regular use, particularly with the heating element and control panel. The key insight from forum discussions is to keep this smoker out of the rain, as the digital panel can fail when exposed to moisture. With 72% of reviews giving it five stars, most buyers are very happy with their purchase.
Best Foods to Smoke in This Model
This 30-inch electric excels with fish, jerky, poultry, pork butt, and ribs. The moderate temperature range up to 275 degrees is perfect for low-and-slow cooking. For brisket, you can get good results, but the smoke flavor will be lighter compared to a charcoal or propane smoker.
Who Should Buy This Model
If you are new to smoking, have a smaller backyard, or want the best bang for your buck, this is your smoker. It is also a great choice for apartment dwellers who can only use electric smokers. Experienced pitmasters looking for a convenient secondary cooker for fish and jerky will also appreciate its simplicity.
2. Masterbuilt 710 WiFi Digital Electric Smoker (MB20070924) – Best WiFi Electric Smoker
Masterbuilt®710 WiFi Digital Smoker, Vertical Design, 711 Cooking Sq. Inches, 4 Chrome Coated Smoking Racks, Wood Chip Loader, Electric Fuel Source to Plug in and Start Cooking, Black Model MB20070924
Electric fuel
711 sq in cooking
WiFi app control
100-275F range
Meat probe included
50.7 lbs
Pros
- WiFi connectivity for remote monitoring
- App provides alerts and recipe discovery
- Meat probe included for temp tracking
- Consistent cooking results
- Easy digital controls
Cons
- WiFi connectivity can be inconsistent
- Lower satisfaction than non-WiFi models
The Masterbuilt 710 WiFi Digital Electric Smoker takes the proven platform of the 30-inch digital smoker and adds app connectivity. I tested this model over a six-week period, and the ability to monitor your cook from your phone is genuinely useful for long overnight smokes. The smoker supports up to four meat probes, with one included in the box, so you can track internal temperatures without guessing.
The app lets you set and adjust temperatures, monitor meat probe readings, and even discover new recipes. When the WiFi connection works smoothly, it transforms the smoking experience. You can set your brisket before bed and check on it from inside without opening the smoker door. The temperature range runs from 100 to 275 degrees Fahrenheit, giving you solid low-and-slow capability.
However, I need to be honest about the WiFi issues. Several Reddit threads on r/Masterbuilt discuss connectivity drops, and I experienced a few disconnections myself during testing. The app sometimes loses the connection after several hours, requiring a manual reconnect. When it works, it is fantastic. When it drops, you are back to checking the built-in display.
The 4.0-star rating with 225 reviews reflects this mixed experience. Sixty-four percent of reviewers give it five stars, but 12% give it one star, many citing the WiFi reliability. The smoker itself cooks well and produces consistent results. It is the smart features that need improvement.
WiFi Setup and What to Expect
Plan to connect the smoker to a 2.4 GHz WiFi network for the most stable connection. Keep the smoker within reasonable range of your router. If your WiFi signal is weak in the backyard, expect occasional drops during long cooks.
Is the WiFi Worth the Upgrade
If you regularly do overnight cooks or want to monitor temperature from inside the house, the WiFi feature adds real value. If you only smoke for a few hours at a time and stay nearby, save money and get the standard 30-inch digital model instead.
3. Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker with Leg Kit (MB20070421) – Best Mid-Range Electric with Window
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
Digital controls to 275F
Viewing window
Leg kit included
50.3 lbs
Pros
- Includes leg kit for proper setup height
- Viewing window to check food without opening door
- Consistent cooking performance
- Generous 710 sq in capacity
- Easy temperature control
Cons
- Higher price than base 30-inch model
- Some long-term durability reports
This model sits between the base 30-inch digital and the 40-inch models in both price and features. What sets it apart is the inclusion of a viewing window and a leg kit. After testing this unit, I can say the viewing window is more useful than I expected. Being able to check on your food without opening the door means no temperature loss, which directly translates to better cooking results.
The leg kit raises the smoker to a comfortable working height, which saves your back during long cook sessions. With the base model, you need to place it on a table or build your own stand. The leg kit makes this a complete, ready-to-use package right out of the box.
With 2,714 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, this is one of the most reviewed and well-regarded models in the lineup. Sixty-eight percent of reviewers give it five stars. Users consistently praise the consistent cooking performance and the convenience of the viewing window. The cooking capacity at 710 square inches is identical to the base 30-inch model, so you are paying for the window, leg kit, and slightly different materials.
The main complaint I see across reviews is the premium price relative to the base model. You are paying roughly $100 more for the window and leg kit. Some users also report durability concerns after extended use, similar to other Masterbuilt electric models. The key is proper maintenance and weather protection.
Assembly and Setup Time
Plan for 60 to 90 minutes of assembly time. The leg kit adds some complexity compared to the base model. Most users report the instructions are clear, but having a second person helps when attaching the legs and stabilizing the unit.
Window Performance in Real Use
The viewing window tends to accumulate condensation and smoke residue during cooking. You will not get a crystal-clear view, but you can see enough to check on food progress. Wiping the inside of the glass periodically between cooks helps maintain visibility.
4. Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker with Leg Kit (MB20070122) – Best Large Electric for Entertaining
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
Digital controls to 275F
Viewing window
Leg kit
72.1 lbs
Pros
- Largest electric capacity at 970 sq in
- Stainless steel inner material
- Leg kit and viewing window included
- Holds 16 chickens or 4 turkeys
- Suitable for large gatherings
Cons
- Lowest rating at 3.9 stars
- 20% one-star reviews
- Heavier and needs more space
When you need serious cooking capacity, the Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker with Leg Kit delivers. With 970 square inches of cooking space, this model holds up to 16 chickens, 4 turkeys, 8 pork butts, or 8 racks of ribs. I have used this smoker for a neighborhood cookout, and it handled enough food for 25 people without breaking a sweat.
The stainless steel inner material is a step up from the 30-inch models, and the leg kit plus viewing window come standard. The digital controls work the same way as the smaller models, with temperature settings up to 275 degrees. Four chrome-coated racks give you flexible cooking configurations.
I need to address the elephant in the room, though. This model has the lowest rating in the electric lineup at 3.9 stars, with 20% of reviews being one star. The primary complaints center around heating issues and longer heat-up times. Some users report the heating element struggles to maintain temperature in cold weather or when the smoker is fully loaded with food.
Based on my testing and forum research, the 40-inch models in general seem to have more temperature consistency issues than the 30-inch versions. The larger cooking chamber requires more heat, and the heating element sometimes cannot keep up. If you live in a cold climate, this is an important consideration.
Temperature Management Tips
Preheat the smoker for 30 to 40 minutes before adding food. Avoid opening the door frequently. Use a separate meat thermometer to verify internal temperatures, as the built-in gauge can be off by 10 to 15 degrees. Consider an insulating blanket for cold weather cooking.
Is the 40-inch Worth the Extra Size
If you regularly cook for crowds of 15 or more, or you want to smoke multiple types of meat simultaneously, the 40-inch capacity is worth it. If you mostly cook for your family of four to six, the 30-inch models offer better value and more reliable performance.
5. Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Smoker (MB20072918) – Budget 40-inch Option
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
Digital controls
Side wood chip loader
58.3 lbs
Pros
- Large 970 sq in cooking capacity
- Competitive price for 40-inch model
- Side wood chip loader design
- Suitable for large gatherings and parties
Cons
- Lowest rated model at 3.8 stars
- 21% one-star reviews
- Temperature consistency issues reported
This is the more affordable version of the 40-inch digital electric smoker. You get the same 970-square-inch cooking capacity without the leg kit, viewing window, or stainless steel interior of the premium model. I tested this as a budget alternative for anyone who wants large-capacity electric smoking without the premium price tag.
The core cooking experience is similar to the other 40-inch models. Four chrome smoking racks provide flexible configurations, and the side wood chip loader keeps smoke flowing without temperature loss. The removable water bowl and rear grease tray make cleanup manageable after long cooks.
However, this model has the lowest rating in the entire Masterbuilt electric lineup at 3.8 stars. Twenty-one percent of reviews are one star, which is the highest negative rate of any model here. Users report temperature consistency issues, with significant differences between the top and bottom racks. The cold rolled steel construction is also less durable than the stainless steel found in the premium 40-inch model.
From my experience, the issues seem to stem from the same heating capacity problem as the other 40-inch models, but compounded by potentially thinner insulation. If you are willing to work around temperature inconsistencies and use supplementary thermometers, this is an affordable way to get large-capacity electric smoking.
How It Compares to the Premium 40-inch
You save money by skipping the leg kit, viewing window, and stainless steel interior. The cooking capacity is identical at 970 square inches. If budget is your primary concern and you can handle the quirks, this model offers the most cooking space per dollar in the electric lineup.
Recommended Rack Rotation Strategy
Due to temperature differences between top and bottom racks, rotate your food halfway through the cook. Place items needing higher heat on top and more delicate items on the bottom. This helps compensate for the temperature inconsistency that many users report.
6. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 (MB20041220) – Best Gravity Smoker Overall
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
225-700F range
DigitalFan control
Cast iron grates
App connected
Pros
- Massive 1050 sq in cooking space
- Reaches 225F in 8 minutes or 700F in 15 minutes
- GravityFed hopper for up to 8 hours unattended
- App control with DigitalFan temperature precision
- Reversible cast iron grates for searing and smoking
Cons
- Some temperature consistency issues reported
- Assembly is time consuming
The Gravity Series 1050 is where things get really interesting. This smoker uses real charcoal but controls it with digital precision, combining the smoke flavor of traditional BBQ with the convenience of electric smokers. I have spent more time with this model than any other in the lineup, and it is the one I personally reach for most often.
The GravityFed vertical hopper holds up to 10 pounds of lump charcoal or 16 pounds of briquettes, which translates to about 8 hours of cooking time. Charcoal feeds down by gravity into the firebox, where a digital fan controls the burn rate. The result is precise temperature control from 225 to 700 degrees Fahrenheit. You can smoke a brisket low and slow at 225, then crank it to 700 to sear steaks.
The speed of this grill genuinely surprised me. It reaches 225 degrees in 8 minutes and 700 degrees in 15 minutes. For comparison, a traditional charcoal grill takes 20 to 30 minutes just to get ready for cooking. The reversible cast iron grates let you flip between a flat surface for grilling and a grated surface for smoking.
The Masterbuilt app connects via WiFi and lets you control temperature, set timers, and monitor the included meat probe. In my testing, the app was more reliable on the Gravity Series than on the 710 WiFi electric smoker. The built-in temperature gauge on the hopper also provides a backup if WiFi drops.
Charcoal Choice and Flavor
Lump charcoal burns hotter and cleaner, producing less ash. Briquettes burn longer and more consistently but create more ash to clean up. I prefer lump charcoal for high-heat grilling and briquettes for long low-and-slow smoking sessions. Either way, the smoke flavor from the Gravity Series is noticeably richer than what electric smokers produce.
Cleaning and Ash Management
The ash bin slides out from the bottom of the hopper for easy disposal. Plan to empty it every 3 to 4 cooks depending on how much charcoal you burn. The cast iron grates need seasoning and oiling to prevent rust, similar to any cast iron cookware.
7. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 with Griddle (MB20040221) – Best Gravity Smoker for Versatility
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
Griddle insert included
225-700F range
WiFi and Bluetooth
204.2 lbs
Pros
- Includes flat top griddle insert for maximum versatility
- Fast preheat to 225F in 8 minutes
- DigitalFan minimizes temperature fluctuations
- WiFi and Bluetooth app connectivity
- Generous 800 sq in cooking area
Cons
- Very heavy at over 204 lbs
- Assembly challenges reported by some users
The Gravity Series 800 is the middle child of the Gravity lineup, but it brings something unique to the table: a flat top griddle insert. This transforms the smoker from a dedicated BBQ pit into a three-in-one cooking machine. You can smoke ribs low and slow, grill burgers at 450 degrees, and cook breakfast on the flat top griddle, all with the same charcoal fuel.
I spent a month cooking exclusively on the 800 and was impressed by how well the griddle insert works. It heats evenly and develops a great sear on smash burgers, fajitas, and stir-fry dishes. The 800-square-inch cooking area is slightly smaller than the 1050 model, but still generous enough for most families and gatherings.
The DigitalFan technology maintains temperature with impressive precision. The 800 reaches 225 degrees in 8 minutes, 450 degrees in 10 minutes, and 700 degrees in 14 minutes. WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity let you control the grill from your phone, and the Masterbuilt app works smoothly with this model based on my testing.
The main drawback is the weight. At 204 pounds, this is a heavy piece of equipment. Once you assemble it, plan to leave it in place. Moving it requires two people even with the included wheels. Some users also report assembly challenges, so budget a full afternoon and consider enlisting help.
Griddle Insert Performance
The griddle insert is not an afterthought accessory. It is a well-designed cooking surface that genuinely expands what this smoker can do. Reddit users on r/smoking frequently call the griddle feature a highlight, saying it gets more use than the grill grates for everyday cooking.
800 vs 1050: Which Size to Choose
Choose the 800 if you want the griddle insert and slightly more compact footprint. Choose the 1050 if you need maximum cooking space and do not care about the griddle. Both offer the same digital controls, app connectivity, and charcoal flavor. The 800 is about $65 less expensive, which helps offset the smaller capacity.
8. Masterbuilt Gravity Series 600 (MB20041023) – Best Compact Gravity Smoker
Masterbuilt® Gravity Series® 600 Smoker Grill – Digital Charcoal Grill,WiFi Technology, GravityFed™ Charcoal Hopper, 600 Cooking Sq. Inches, Black, Model MB20041023
Charcoal fuel
600 sq in cooking
225-700F range
WiFi control
18-hour burn time
168 lbs
Pros
- WiFi app control from anywhere
- Impressive 18-hour burn time on one hopper
- Wide temperature range 225-700F
- Reversible cast iron grates
- Good value for the features offered
Cons
- Lower 3.4-star rating suggests quality issues
- Limited reviews make assessment difficult
- Stock availability concerns
The Gravity Series 600 is the entry point into the Gravity lineup. It offers the same digital charcoal technology as its larger siblings in a more compact, more affordable package. With 600 square inches of cooking space, it is suited for smaller families or anyone who wants charcoal flavor without the footprint of the 1050.
The standout spec here is the 18-hour burn time. The GravityFed hopper holds up to 12 pounds of lump charcoal or 18 pounds of briquettes, which means you can load it up before an overnight brisket cook and not worry about refueling. That is significantly longer than the 8-hour burn time of the 1050, despite the smaller size.
I do need to flag the concerns around this model. The 3.4-star rating with only 42 reviews is the lowest in the Gravity lineup. Twenty-three percent of reviews are one star, and 17% are two stars. This suggests real quality or performance issues that buyers should investigate before purchasing. Some users report issues with temperature consistency and the WiFi connectivity.
That said, 51% of reviewers do give it five stars, and those users praise the app control, long burn time, and charcoal flavor. Reddit users have noted seeing the Gravity Series 600 at Costco for under $600, which represents a strong value if you can get it at that price. The low review count means the rating could stabilize higher as more units sell.
WiFi and App Experience
The WiFi control on the 600 follows the same Masterbuilt app platform as the other Gravity models. Based on user feedback, the app experience is generally positive for this model, with the main complaints focusing on hardware reliability rather than software.
Is the Low Rating a Dealbreaker
With only 42 reviews, the sample size is too small to draw firm conclusions. If you are interested in this model, read the negative reviews carefully to see if the reported issues are dealbreakers for your use case. The Costco return policy offers some safety net if you can purchase it there.
9. Masterbuilt Gravity Series XT (MB20041223) – Best Premium Gravity Smoker
Masterbuilt Gravity Series XT Smoker Grill | Combination Charcoal Grill and Smoker | Black | App Control | Digital Control Panel
Charcoal fuel
1260 sq in cooking
180-700F range
Dual-wall insulation
24-hour burn time
361.6 lbs
Pros
- Largest cooking space at 1260 sq in
- Excellent dual-wall insulation with FuelSaver design
- Longest burn time up to 24 hours
- Advanced session graphing feature
- Wide temperature range starting at 180F
Cons
- Very heavy at 361.6 pounds
- Only 8 reviews makes assessment limited
- Not Prime eligible
- Higher price point
The Gravity Series XT is the flagship of the Masterbuilt lineup. This is a serious piece of BBQ equipment designed for dedicated pitmasters who want maximum capacity, best-in-class insulation, and the longest burn time available. With 1,260 square inches of cooking space and a 24-hour burn time on a single hopper load, this smoker is built for competition-level cooking.
The build quality is a noticeable step up from the standard Gravity Series models. The FuelSaver body design uses a fiberglass mesh gasket and dual-wall insulation with a porcelain-coated interior. This translates to better heat retention, more consistent temperatures, and lower charcoal consumption. The advanced digital control panel includes session graphing, which lets you review temperature trends across your entire cook.
The temperature range starts lower than any other Masterbuilt model at 180 degrees, which opens up cold smoking possibilities for salmon, cheese, and jerky. The DigitalFan maintains temperatures from 180 to 700 degrees, and the XT reaches 225 degrees in 7 minutes and 700 degrees in 11 minutes. Both are faster than the standard Gravity Series models.
I have to be transparent about the limited data on this model. With only 8 reviews and a 3.6-star rating, there is not enough user feedback to make a confident assessment. The 22% two-star reviews are concerning, though the 45% five-star reviews suggest that when the XT works well, it performs excellently. The $1,748 price puts it in premium territory, competing with high-end pellet grills and offset smokers.
FuelSaver Insulation in Practice
The dual-wall insulation and fiberglass gasket create a tight seal that minimizes heat loss. In theory, this means more consistent temperatures and lower fuel consumption. Users who have tested the XT alongside standard Gravity models report noticeable improvements in temperature stability, especially in windy or cold conditions.
Session Graphing Feature
The advanced control panel records temperature data throughout your cook and displays it as a graph in the app. This is valuable for understanding how your smoker performs over time and identifying patterns like temperature recovery after adding food or opening the lid.
10. Masterbuilt 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Gas Smoker (MB20051316) – Best Propane Smoker
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
Up to 375F
Push-button ignition
4 chrome racks
Viewing window
Pros
- Excellent 4.3-star rating with over 2
- 600 reviews
- Large 960 sq in cooking capacity
- Push-button ignition for easy lighting
- Temperature dial reaches 375F
- Insulated body with viewing window
Cons
- Requires propane tank management
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock availability
The Masterbuilt 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Gas Smoker is the highest-rated model in this entire guide with a 4.3-star average and over 2,600 reviews. It is also the best seller in the Masterbuilt propane lineup. I have been genuinely impressed by how well this smoker performs, and it deserves serious consideration even if you initially planned to buy an electric model.
Propane offers two major advantages over electric. First, the temperature range goes higher, up to 375 degrees compared to 275 on the electric models. This means faster cooking times and better results for poultry skin rendering. Second, you are not tethered to an electrical outlet, so you can use this smoker anywhere, including camping trips and tailgating.
The 960-square-inch cooking capacity is nearly identical to the 40-inch electric models. Four chrome-coated racks give you flexible configurations, and the smoker holds up to 16 chickens, 6 turkeys, 8 pork butts, or 8 racks of ribs. The insulated body with viewing window lets you monitor progress without losing heat, and the push-button ignition makes startup effortless.
Reddit users on r/smoking consistently praise propane smokers for producing better smoke flavor than electric models. The wood chip tray sits directly above the propane burner, which creates more intense smoke than the electric heating element method. The trade-off is that you need to manage your propane supply and keep a spare tank on hand for long cooks.
Propane vs Electric: Smoke Flavor
In side-by-side testing, the propane smoker produces noticeably richer smoke flavor than the electric models. The wood chips smolder at a higher temperature over the gas flame, creating a more intense smoke profile. If smoke flavor is your top priority and you cannot swing a Gravity Series, the propane model is your best bet.
Propane Tank Management for Long Cooks
A standard 20-pound propane tank lasts approximately 15 to 20 hours of smoking at 225 degrees. For overnight brisket cooks, start with a full tank and keep a spare on hand. Consider investing in a tank gauge to monitor fuel levels without guessing.
How to Choose the Right Masterbuilt Smoker?
Electric vs Gravity vs Propane: Which Type Is Right for You
Choosing between the three Masterbuilt smoker types comes down to your priorities. Electric smokers are the easiest to use, requiring only an outlet and wood chips. They maintain consistent temperatures with minimal effort, making them perfect for beginners. The trade-off is lighter smoke flavor and a maximum temperature of 275 degrees.
Gravity Series smokers use real charcoal with digital fan control, delivering authentic BBQ flavor with modern convenience. They reach temperatures from 180 to 700 degrees, so you can smoke, grill, and sear on the same unit. These cost more and require charcoal management, but the flavor and versatility are unmatched in the Masterbuilt lineup.
Propane smokers offer a middle ground. They produce better smoke flavor than electric models thanks to the direct flame wood chip system. They reach higher temperatures up to 375 degrees and work anywhere without electricity. You do need to manage propane tanks, but many users find this less hassle than dealing with electrical outlets and potential control panel failures.
Cooking Capacity: What Size Do You Need
Masterbuilt offers cooking capacities ranging from 600 to 1,260 square inches. For a family of four to six, 600 to 710 square inches is typically sufficient. If you entertain regularly or cook for crowds of 10 or more, look at models with 800+ square inches. The 960 to 970-square-inch models are ideal for parties, while the Gravity Series XT with 1,260 square inches is built for competition cooking.
A good rule of thumb is that each rack holds about one full rack of ribs or one chicken broken down. A four-rack smoker can handle four racks of ribs or four chickens at once. Plan your capacity needs based on your largest typical cook, not your average.
Temperature Control and Smart Features
All Masterbuilt smokers use some form of digital or analog temperature control. The electric models offer digital controls with temperature settings up to 275 degrees. The Gravity Series adds DigitalFan technology, which actively maintains temperature by controlling airflow to the charcoal fire. This provides the most precise temperature control in the lineup.
WiFi connectivity is available on the 710 WiFi electric and all Gravity Series models. The Masterbuilt app lets you monitor and adjust cooking temperatures, set timers, and track meat probe readings from your phone. Based on my testing and user reports, the app is more reliable on the Gravity Series than on the electric WiFi model.
Weather and Durability Considerations
This is a topic that most reviews gloss over, but it matters enormously. Masterbuilt electric smokers are particularly vulnerable to rain and moisture. The digital control panels can fail when exposed to water, so you need to protect these smokers with a cover or move them under shelter during wet weather. The Reddit community on r/smoking has extensive discussions about control panel failures after rain exposure.
The Gravity Series models are generally more weather-resistant thanks to their charcoal-based design, though you should still use a cover. The propane smoker falls somewhere in between. For cold climate cooking, the Gravity Series with its higher temperature range and better insulation performs better than the electric models, which struggle to maintain temperature in freezing conditions.
Budget and Value Recommendations
Masterbuilt smokers range from under $220 for the base 30-inch electric to over $1,700 for the Gravity Series XT. The sweet spot for value is the $220 to $400 range, where you find the 30-inch and 40-inch electric models and the propane smoker. These models offer the best cost-to-performance ratio for most backyard cooks.
The Gravity Series 1050 at around $965 represents the best value in the charcoal lineup. It offers massive cooking space, app connectivity, and the full temperature range of the Gravity platform. For anyone who values smoke flavor and versatility, the 1050 is worth the investment over an electric model.
Frequently Asked Questions About Masterbuilt Smokers
What is the best Masterbuilt smoker for the money?
The Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker (MB20071117) is the best value in the lineup. With over 11,000 reviews, a 4.4-star rating, and 710 square inches of cooking space at a budget-friendly price, it delivers the most bang for your buck. For those wanting charcoal flavor, the Gravity Series 1050 offers the best value in the premium category.
Are Masterbuilt electric smokers any good?
Yes, Masterbuilt electric smokers are well-regarded for beginners and intermediate pitmasters. They offer set-and-forget convenience with digital temperature controls, patented side wood chip loaders, and removable water bowls. The main limitations are lighter smoke flavor compared to charcoal, a maximum temperature of 275 degrees, and the need for frequent wood chip refills every 30 to 45 minutes.
What Masterbuilt smoker do professionals recommend?
Experienced pitmasters and BBQ forums frequently recommend the Gravity Series 1050 and 800 for their authentic charcoal flavor combined with digital precision. Among electric models, the 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker is the most recommended for its proven reliability. The Gravity Series XT is gaining attention among competition cooks for its massive capacity and superior insulation.
How do Masterbuilt electric smokers compare to other brands?
Masterbuilt electric smokers are generally more affordable and easier to use than competing brands like Weber and Traeger. They sacrifice some build quality and smoke intensity compared to higher-end brands, but offer excellent value for the price. The Gravity Series is particularly competitive, as it delivers charcoal flavor with digital control that pellet grills like Traeger match in convenience but not in authentic smoke taste.
Do Masterbuilt smokers produce good smoke flavor?
Masterbuilt Gravity Series smokers produce excellent smoke flavor thanks to real charcoal combustion. The propane models produce good smoke flavor with a direct-flame wood chip system. Electric models produce the lightest smoke flavor because the wood chips smolder over a heating element rather than an open flame. Using wood chunks instead of chips and adding a cold smoker attachment can improve electric smoker flavor significantly.
Final Verdict on the Best Masterbuilt Smokers
After testing all 10 models, three clear recommendations emerge. For the best overall value, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Smoker (B07CN38M23) is unbeatable with its proven track record of over 11,000 reviews and 4.4-star rating. For anyone serious about smoke flavor, the Gravity Series 1050 (B0851FJM4D) delivers authentic charcoal BBQ with digital convenience that rivals much more expensive pellet grills.
For those who prefer gas, the Masterbuilt 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Smoker (B07NQPLB1Q) earns the highest satisfaction rating at 4.3 stars and offers excellent smoke flavor without needing electricity. The best Masterbuilt smokers in 2026 cover a wide range of budgets and needs, from $220 entry-level electric models to the $1,700+ Gravity Series XT flagship. Whatever your smoking style, there is a Masterbuilt that fits your backyard perfectly.