What to Look for When Choosing Your Meat Smoker

If you're someone who loves smoked meat, then investing in a meat smoker is a great idea. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this article, we'll discuss some of the most important factors to consider when buying a meat smoker.

 
 


Do you want Electric, Gas, or Charcoal?

The type of meat smoker you choose will depend on your personal preference and how often you plan to use it. There are three main types of meat smokers: electric, gas, and charcoal. Electric smokers are easy to use and require minimal effort, while gas smokers are a bit more complicated and require a bit more effort. Charcoal smokers require the most effort, but they offer the most authentic smoky flavor.

How many are you feeding?

The cooking space is another crucial factor to consider when buying a meat smoker. Depending on your needs, you can choose a meat smoker with a small cooking space or a large one. If you plan to smoke meat for a large group of people, then a meat smoker with a large cooking space is the best option. On the other hand, if you only plan to smoke meat for yourself or a small group of people, then a smaller cooking space will suffice.

What’s your budget?

Meat smokers come in different price ranges, and it's important to choose one that fits your budget. While a high-end meat smoker may offer additional features, it may not be necessary if you're a beginner or only plan to use it occasionally. On the other hand, if you're a seasoned pro or plan to use your meat smoker frequently, then investing in a high-end model might be worth it.

Here Are The Top 7 Smoker Brands

  1. Traeger Grills - Pellet smokers that use wood pellets as a fuel source. Their most popular smoker is the Traeger Pro Series 575, which starts at around $799.

  2. Weber - Charcoal smokers and grills that are known for their quality and durability. Their most popular smoker is the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker, which starts at around $439.

  3. Pit Boss - Affordable smokers that offer excellent performance. Their most popular smoker is the Pit Boss Austin XL, which starts at around $599.

  4. Masterbuilt - Electric smokers that are easy to use and perfect for beginners. Their most popular smoker is the Masterbuilt 30-Inch Digital Electric Smoker, which starts at around $199.

  5. Green Mountain Grills - Pellet smokers that offer excellent performance and durability. Their most popular smoker is the Green Mountain Grills Daniel Boone Prime, which starts at around $599.

  6. Char-Broil - Affordable smokers that are perfect for those on a budget. Their most popular smoker is the Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker, which starts at around $279.

  7. Big Green Egg - Ceramic charcoal grills and smokers that are known for their excellent heat retention and versatility. The Big Green Egg comes in several sizes, ranging from the Mini to the XXLarge. The Large Big Green Egg, their most popular size, starts at around $859. The Big Green Egg can be used for grilling, smoking, baking, and more, and features a patented air flow system that allows you to control the temperature with ease. With its durable ceramic construction, the Big Green Egg is built to last and is a great investment for anyone who loves outdoor cooking.

Conclusion

When it comes to buying a meat smoker, choosing the right type of meat smoker, cooking space, and price range are some of the most important factors to keep in mind. With these factors in mind, you'll be able to choose the right meat smoker that suits your needs and budget. Happy smoking!

If you’re looking for BBQ restaurants in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region that specialize in smooth bourbon and smoked meats, Smoke Justis is the place to be!

Alex TilfordSmoke Justis