5 Best Insulated Smoker Of 2021 [Buyer’s Guide]

Let’s paint a picture for you – a backyard barbecue with your family over some mean steaks and chilled drinks. Sounds great, right?

But do you have the perfect appliance for the above scenario? In case you don’t, it’s time to get an insulated smoker. However, buying one randomly is hardly a great idea, as you’d want something with appropriate specs to meet your cooking requirements.

Therefore, to make things easier on your part, we decided to look for some of the top options right now. And voila! We ended up with the 5 best insulated smokers of 2020.

So, without further ado, let’s begin.

Best Insulated Smoker 

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
Our Top PickOur Top Pick	Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow SH19079518 Digital Electric Smoker	800 W heating element Removable water bowl	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker	Double-wall insulated construction Large-capacity wood chip box	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D 30" Digital Electric Smoker	Digital push-button controls 800 W burner	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	Backwoods Chubby 3400 Charcoal BBQ Meat Water Smoker	Stainless steel interior Heat diverter	VIEW LATEST PRICE →
	Earth Oven Original Barbecue Pit Smoker	304 grade stainless steel construction Oversized lid	VIEW LATEST PRICE →

1. Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow SH19079518 Digital Electric Smoker

Make your weekend BBQs great again with the Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow Digital Electric Smoker. If you’re tired of your old grill taking hours to cook steaks, it’s time to upgrade to this next-generation appliance. It’s high on power and capacity and includes a host of innovative features, so check it out.

Sale

Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow SH19079518 Digital Electric Smoker,...

• Exterior: 33.5 in. (H) x 18.2 in. (W) x 18.7 in. (L)...
• Digital panel controls on/off, temperature, and time
• Three chrome-coated smoking racks
• Integrated thermostat temperature control for even,...

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Why Did We Like It?

First and foremost, we’re very impressed with the digital control panel, eliminating all unnecessary guesswork. It includes on/off, temperature, and time functions, thereby offering maximum convenience from the get-go.

Furthermore, it features an integrated thermostat, ensuring complete temperature control to provide even and consistent cooking. This feature alone puts it miles ahead of competitors, and as such, elevates your cooking experience to a whole new level.

Other than that, it comes with 3 chrome-coated smoking racks, allowing users to cook large batches of meals all at the same time. Honestly, it doesn’t get easier than this, and we’re sure that you’ll appreciate all the extra space and intense smoky flavor.

However, if you’re worried about excessive emissions, let’s just say that it has a built-in adjustable air damper that effectively controls the fumes. Lastly, the removal drip pan is a lifesaver, making things easier during the post-cook cleanup.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We’re not ones to nitpick when dealing with something this advanced and versatile. However, it misses a few points when it comes to practicality. Most users want such a smoker for outdoor use, but the model does not come with handles to streamline transport. And the fact that it weighs 46 lbs does not help at all.

2. Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker

Up next, we have the Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker designed to infuse meats with all the smoke and flavor you need. It may not have a lot going in terms of looks, but it sure packs in a lot of heat and power, delivering the right amount of burn without fail. So, if that sounds good, give this a try.

Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker

• 544 Square inches of cooking space spread across three...
• Double-wall insulated construction with dual exhaust...
• Door-mounted temperature gauge, and dual latches to keep...
• Front-access water tray, grease cup and wood chip tray

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Why Did We Like It?

First of all, we were quite impressed with the 544 sq inch cooking space of this unit, providing sufficient space to cook an elaborate feast. So, if you want a reliable smoker for weekend brunches with family and friends, this black number should work fine.

Furthermore, it includes 3 chrome-plated cooking grates, meaning you can divide your spread as per requirement and even cook smaller portions when needed. Feature-wise, we really like the cleverly placed temperature gauge on the door, allowing users to monitor the temperature at a glance.

Besides, it’s powered by a 1200 W heating element, which at this price point, is nothing short of remarkable. But the good things don’t end here; the smoker includes an aluminized steel water pan, preventing meats from drying out, while the removable drip tray ensures hassle-free cleanup.

Also, the front door features a pair of latches that seals in all the smoke, moisture, and flavor, thereby producing some authentic smoky meals.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We are, for most parts, satisfied with the overall performance of this analog smoker. However, we couldn’t help but notice a drawback in its design. Basically, you cannot access the wood chip tray without opening the front door. Now, this is an inconvenience since most of us would prefer refilling while keeping the smoke sealed in.

3. Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D 30″ Digital Electric Smoker

The Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D 30″ Digital Electric Smoker is an excellent choice for users looking to cook different types of meats and experiment with new recipes. It looks all swanky and sophisticated in black, and honestly, it’ll get people talking the moment you roll it out for a scrumptious barbecue feast.

Sale

Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D 30" Digital Electric Smoker

• Four chrome-plated steel cooking grates offer a total of 732...
• 800 watt burner provides abundant cooking power even in...
• Digital thermostat with push-button controls for setting and...
• Integrated meat thermometer displays internal temperature at...

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Why Did We Like It?

There are many reasons but let’s start with the basics. To begin with, we really appreciate the digital control panel, which also includes a thermostat, allowing users to set and monitor the internal temperature.

You can also program the cooking time while keeping an eye on the current temperature for a quick update. However, what seals the deal for us is the 732 sq inch cooking space, spread across 4 racks. Therefore, if you want a high-capacity unit for smoking ribs, steaks, sausages on separate racks but all at the same time, this is where the search ends.

Furthermore, it comes with a side access wood chip loader, letting users reload without losing smoke or heat. This is a truly ingenious addition that provides a streamlined cooking experience throughout.

Besides, the removable tray comes in handy for the quick disposal of grease and liquids. Overall, it’s a highly functional appliance that needs very little oversight and maintenance.

What Could’ve Been Better?

This digital smoker is, by all means, a ‘set it and forget it’ type, which is essentially what many of us want. However, we would have liked it better if the wood chip tray was slightly bigger and didn’t need as many refills. That aside, it’s an exceptional model with some unique features that are hard to pass up.

4. Backwoods Chubby 3400 Charcoal BBQ Meat Water Smoker

The Backwoods Chubby 3400 Smoker is a top of the line appliance that incorporates a professional touch to your barbecue recipes. It may not be the most affordable option on our list, but it sure boasts some exclusive features that make it worth the price. So, if that intrigues the steak-lover in you, take a look at it now.

Backwoods Chubby 3400 22.5 x 20 x 31.5 Inch Portable Outdoor...

• FEED THE CREW: Heavy-duty charcoal smoker with 4 adjustable...
• CHARCOAL WATER SMOKER: Control the smoke and flavor with...
• DOUBLES AS A GRILL: Remove the stainless steel water pan to...
• LARGE CAPACITY: Holds 6 to 10 pounds of charcoal

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Why Did We Like It?

This might be an analog smoker, but it has some incredibly user-friendly features that make your outdoor cooking session more fun. For starters, it includes 4 adjustable racks that are 3” apart, providing sufficient space to cook a variety of meats.

Apart from that, it has a separate high-capacity firebox, where you can load 6-10 lbs. of charcoal at a time. So, if you intend to prepare slow-cook dishes or smoke over low heat, this model is a perfect choice.

Furthermore, it can also be used as a grill or BBQ pit; all you need to do is remove the stainless steel water pan. Users can monitor the internal cooking temperature, thanks to the door-mounted thermometer.

Meanwhile, the front door with the slam latches ensures uninterrupted cooking without any heat or smoking spilling out. Lastly, the smoker comes with handles on either side, so transporting it is easier than you think.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Nothing but the hefty price tag. This model is undoubtedly one of the most expensive smokers on the market, and hence, many buyers may not consider it their first option. Besides, you need to pay extra for accessories like drip guard, cover, etc., which further adds to the already inflated price.

5. Earth Oven Original Barbecue Pit Smoker

The Earth Oven Original Barbecue Pit Smoker is the ultimate outdoor appliance that brings a whole new spin to your backyard feasts. If you’d rather go down the conventional route and use a dependable, old-school unit for your recipes, this sure checks all the boxes. Besides, it’s high on capacity and heat – the two elements of a great smoker.

Earth Oven Original Barbecue Pit Smoker, Grill, Oven

• In the Earth Cooking to Enhance Flavors and Technique -...
• 304 Grade Stainless Steel Smoker/Grill/Oven - Heavy Duty /...
• Authentic Real Pit BBQ - Backyard and Travel Ready - Easy to...
• Nutrient Rich Food with Open Bottom Design - Experience the...

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Why Did We Like It?

Push-button controls might be the latest thing in insulated smokers, but some of us still prefer the traditional way. That said, this Earth Oven model strikes the right balance between conventional smoking techniques and newer construction technology that’ll stand the test of time.

For starters, we’re very impressed with the 682 sq. inch cooking space, spread over 3 levels, allowing you to prepare a large batch in a single application. Other than that, its fuel compartment is big enough to accommodate standard-sized logs, and as such, you can even add leaves, rocks, wood, charcoal, pellets, etc.

So, if you want to recreate a truly rustic cooking experience with a modern touch, this undoubtedly will meet all needs. That said, it allows users to experiment with different cuisines and smoking methods like searing, grilling, roasting, and Asian tandoor style.

Also, regardless of your preferred technique, the thermometer on the top ensures the right amount of heat throughout.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Well, there’s hardly anything to not like about this product; however, the only reason some buyers may skip this model is it requires setting up. If you have never used a traditional smoker before, it may seem difficult to assemble. But then again, you can always look up a few tutorials online for help.

Insulated Smoker Buyer’s Guide

Knowing all about the 5 best insulated smokers of 2020 might seem sufficient information to go ahead and place an order. We get your enthusiasm, but you still need to consider some things before making a purchase decision.

Therefore, to help you out, we have put together a brief buyer’s guide to walk you through all the essential points. Take a look now.

1. Digital Vs. Analog

Before you choose any of these models, it’s best to settle the digital vs. analog debate. Both smoker types have their own set of advantages, so it ultimately comes down to what you’re looking for.

A digital model is ideal for BBQ beginners as you get to program the two key parameters of time and temperature. Also, it’s less of a hassle overall as you don’t need to constantly monitor things, unlike in analog units.

However, analog smokers usually take less time to cook, mainly because they have a larger fuel capacity.

2. Easy Cleaning

Regardless of the model you select, make sure it’s easy to clean and maintain. You don’t want the post-cook cleaning session to turn into an arduous affair involving heavy scrubbing and scraping. Ideally, it’s best to buy a smoker with a removable drip tray that collects all the liquids and grease for easy disposal.

Also, units with stainless steel interiors are easier to clean, making them a viable choice in the long run.

3. Cooking Space

This bit is important as you’d want to invest in a model with an appropriate food capacity. Some smokers have a 3-rack configuration while others have 4-levels. If you’re looking to cook different types of meat or larger portions, we suggest buying something in the 600-700 sq inch range. On the other hand, anything lower is good enough to prepare smaller batches.

4. Transportation

Since you’re most likely to use the smoker outside, it only makes sense to buy one with provisions for easy transport. For that matter, check if the model has handles on either side or wheels. They tend to be heavy, so you don’t want to miss out on this feature.

Verdict

That’s all, folks!

We hope you could find the most suitable option from our all-star selection. But before you save the date for your next BBQ event, here are some quick tips.

Make sure the model you buy has the right capacity and heating element. After all, you don’t want to buy something too small and end up having to cook multiple batches. On that note, we’d like to sign off with a recap of our top favorites.

The Masterbuilt Smoke Hollow SH19079518 Digital Electric Smoker is the best overall, and the Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker has the best features. Meanwhile, the Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D 30″ Digital Electric Smoker is the best budget buy.

Till next time! Happy cooking!

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