Guide to choosing the best small electric smoker for apartments, small patios, RVs, and beginners.
Tired of charcoal mess but still craving deep, wood-kissed flavor in a tight space? You’re not alone. This guide to the
best small electric smoker shows you how to get that slow-smoked magic without a backyard, fuss, or constant babysitting.
We researched the latest compact and portable electric smokers—comparing capacity, temperature stability, footprint, and real-owner feedback—to bring you the smartest picks of this year. Whether you’re outfitting a balcony, patio, or RV, you’ll find options that plug in, heat fast, and hold temps steady for ribs, wings, and weeknight pork butts.
Who this is for: apartment and condo cooks, first-time smokers who want an easy learning curve, RV and tailgate enthusiasts, and budget-minded buyers seeking maximum value in a compact footprint.
Why trust this guide? We focus on real-world usability (size, cleanup, parts availability) and not just spec sheets—so you can pick a reliable small electric, mini, or portable unit with confidence.
Quick Comparison: Best Small Electric Smokers of 2025
Before diving into full reviews, here’s a side-by-side look at the top compact electric smokers for this year.
We’ve compared cooking space, portability, ease of use, and price to help you zero in on the right fit.
| Image | Model | Key Features | Price Range | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Smoker Top Choice | • 711 sq. in. capacity • Digital controls • Built-in thermostat |
$229–$269 | AVAILABLE ON AMAZON AVAILABLE ON WALMART |
 |
Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker | • 544 sq. in. cooking space • Simple analog controls • Insulated walls |
$149–$179 | AVAILABLE ON AMAZON AVAILABLE ON WALMART |
 |
Smokey Mountain 26″ Electric Smoker | • Compact 26″ frame • Lightweight at 34 lbs • Easy assembly |
$119–$139 | AVAILABLE ON AMAZON AVAILABLE ON WALMART |
 |
Pit Boss 2-Series Vertical Pellet Smoker | • Pellet-fueled electric ignition • 593 sq. in. capacity • Digital control board |
$279–$329 | AVAILABLE ON AMAZON AVAILABLE ON WALMART |
 |
Landmann Smoky Electric Smoker | • 3 chrome-plated racks • Front access grease tray • Glass viewing window |
$169–$199 | AVAILABLE ON AMAZON AVAILABLE ON WALMART |
 |
Cuisinart 30″ Vertical Electric Smoker | • 548 sq. in. cooking space • Removable water pan • Easy-latch door |
$189–$229 | AVAILABLE ON AMAZON AVAILABLE ON WALMART |
Each of these models balances compact size with smoking performance. The Masterbuilt 30″ Digital is our top choice for all-around use thanks to its steady temperature control and generous capacity. Budget-conscious shoppers may prefer the Char-Broil Analog, while portability seekers should look at the Smokey Mountain 26″. Pellet fans who want richer smoke flavor will appreciate the Pit Boss 2-Series.
Detailed Reviews: Best Small Electric Smokers 2025
Below you’ll find in-depth reviews of each model from our comparison chart. We’ve smoked everything from ribs to whole chickens in these units to see how they perform in real-world conditions.
Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Smoker — Best Overall Choice
| Cooking Area: | 711 sq. in. |
| Dimensions: | 20″ x 19.9″ x 33.5″ |
| Fuel Type: | Electric |
| Weight: | 45 lbs |
| Price Range: | $229–$269 |
- ✅ Generous 711 sq. in. capacity
- ✅ Digital panel for easy temp control
- ✅ Side wood chip loading system
- ❌ Not as portable as smaller units
- ❌ No built-in meat probe
The Masterbuilt 30″ Digital Electric Smoker strikes the perfect balance between size and simplicity. The digital controls make it almost foolproof, holding temps steady without constant monitoring. The side wood chip loader lets you add flavor without opening the main door, preserving heat and smoke. In our testing, it comfortably handled a whole chicken plus a rack of ribs in one session without crowding. For the money, it’s the most versatile and dependable small electric smoker you can buy in 2025.
Best For: All-purpose backyard smoking, beginners who want digital ease, families up to 4–5 people.
Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker — Best Budget Pick
| Cooking Area: | 544 sq. in. |
| Dimensions: | 20″ x 17.5″ x 33″ |
| Fuel Type: | Electric |
| Weight: | 49 lbs |
| Price Range: | $149–$179 |
- ✅ Affordable entry-level price
- ✅ Insulated double-wall construction
- ✅ Three chrome racks included
- ❌ Analog dial less precise than digital
- ❌ No viewing window
If you’re dipping your toes into smoking, the Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker offers a wallet-friendly way to start. The simple dial setup keeps the learning curve low, and its insulation helps maintain steady heat. In testing, it reached target temperature quickly and held it surprisingly well for an analog model. It’s not loaded with fancy features, but for under $180, you get reliable performance and enough cooking room for ribs, wings, or even a small brisket.
Best For: Beginners on a budget, casual weekend smoking, smaller households.
Smokey Mountain 26″ Electric Smoker — Best for Portability
| Cooking Area: | 351 sq. in. |
| Dimensions: | 17″ x 19″ x 26″ |
| Fuel Type: | Electric |
| Weight: | 34 lbs |
| Price Range: | $119–$139 |
- ✅ Compact and lightweight (34 lbs)
- ✅ Affordable price point
- ✅ Heats quickly
- ❌ Smaller cooking capacity
- ❌ Lacks advanced features
The Smokey Mountain 26″ Electric Smoker is built for portability. At just 34 pounds, it’s easy to move between the garage, patio, or even pack into an RV. It won’t handle a full rack of ribs without trimming, but for chicken pieces, sausages, or fish, it excels. In our trial run, heat recovery was quick after opening the door, and cleanup was straightforward thanks to removable pans. It’s a great pick if you need smoking capability in a small, travel-friendly package.
Best For: Apartment dwellers, RV travelers, tailgaters, single or two-person households.
Pit Boss 2-Series Vertical Pellet Smoker — Best Small Electric Pellet Smoker
| Cooking Area: | 593 sq. in. |
| Dimensions: | 18″ x 20″ x 36″ |
| Fuel Type: | Pellet (electric ignition) |
| Weight: | 66 lbs |
| Price Range: | $279–$329 |
- ✅ Rich pellet smoke flavor
- ✅ Digital control board
- ✅ Good balance of size and capacity
- ❌ Heavier than pure electric models
- ❌ Requires pellet storage
Pellet fans will love the Pit Boss 2-Series Vertical Pellet Smoker. It uses wood pellets for fuel but features electric ignition and a digital control board for precise temps. Smoke flavor is noticeably stronger compared to standard electrics, making ribs and brisket shine. The vertical design saves floor space while providing nearly 600 sq. in. of cooking surface. It’s heavier than other models here, but if you want compact pellet performance, this is the best small option on the market.
Best For: BBQ enthusiasts who want deeper smoke flavor, pellet fans, backyard use where portability is less critical.
Landmann Smoky Electric Smoker — Best Mid-Range Value
| Cooking Area: | 431 sq. in. |
| Dimensions: | 15″ x 21.5″ x 29″ |
| Fuel Type: | Electric |
| Weight: | 51 lbs |
| Price Range: | $169–$199 |
- ✅ Glass window for monitoring
- ✅ Three chrome racks
- ✅ Easy-access grease tray
- ❌ Slightly heavier build
- ❌ Analog controls only
The Landmann Smoky Electric Smoker gives you a nice blend of price and features. The front glass window lets you peek at progress without constantly opening the door, which is rare at this price point. We liked the straightforward cleanup thanks to the slide-out grease tray. It has a solid, durable feel, making it well-suited for those who smoke more often but don’t want to pay premium prices. Performance is consistent and reliable for everything from ribs to salmon.
Best For: Frequent users, mid-range buyers, cooks who value a viewing window.
Cuisinart 30″ Vertical Electric Smoker — Best Compact All-Rounder
| Cooking Area: | 548 sq. in. |
| Dimensions: | 22″ x 19″ x 37″ |
| Fuel Type: | Electric |
| Weight: | 51 lbs |
| Price Range: | $189–$229 |
- ✅ Spacious 548 sq. in. cooking area
- ✅ Removable water and wood trays
- ✅ Easy-latch door for secure closure
- ❌ Bulkier than the 26″ models
- ❌ Door seal could be tighter
The Cuisinart 30″ Vertical Electric Smoker is a solid all-rounder. With nearly 550 sq. in. of cooking space, it can handle multiple racks of ribs or two chickens at once. The removable water pan helps keep meats juicy, and we found the design simple enough for beginners while still satisfying more experienced cooks. Build quality is sturdy, and the latch door closes with a reassuring snap. It’s a dependable pick if you want a mid-sized compact smoker with balanced features.
Best For: Families, backyard cooks, buyers who want straightforward reliability with ample space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you use a small electric smoker in an apartment?
Yes, most small electric smokers are safe for patios and balconies because they don’t use an open flame.
However, always check your building’s fire code first. Good ventilation and a heatproof surface are essential,
and never leave the smoker unattended.
Q: What is the best small electric smoker for beginners?
Beginners often prefer models with digital controls and automatic thermostats.
The Masterbuilt Digital 30” is a top pick because it maintains steady temps and has a simple control panel.
Analog dials are cheaper but require more frequent monitoring.
Q: Are electric smokers as good as charcoal smokers?
Electric smokers are more convenient and consistent, especially for small spaces.
They may produce a lighter smoke flavor compared to charcoal, but with wood chips or pellets,
you can still achieve authentic BBQ taste with far less hassle.
Q: How much meat can a small electric smoker hold?
Most compact smokers hold 2–3 racks of ribs, 2 whole chickens, or a medium pork shoulder at once.
Cooking areas typically range between 350–500 sq. in., enough for small families or weekend get-togethers.
Q: Do electric smokers use a lot of electricity?
No. Most small electric smokers run between 600–1,200 watts.
A typical 6-hour smoking session usually costs less than $1 in electricity,
making them very energy-efficient compared to running a gas grill or charcoal smoker.
Q: What is the easiest meat to smoke for beginners?
Chicken thighs, wings, and pork shoulder are beginner-friendly because they’re forgiving and stay juicy.
Once you master temperature control, you can move on to ribs or brisket.
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.
Q: Can you use wood chips in all small electric smokers?
Yes, nearly all electric smokers are designed for wood chips.
Some premium models can also use wood chunks or pellets for stronger smoke flavor.
Just avoid overfilling the chip tray to prevent bitter-tasting smoke.
Final Verdict — Our Top 3 Picks
After testing and comparing the leading models, it’s clear that the best small electric smoker
depends on your space, budget, and cooking style. Whether you want convenience, portability, or maximum value,
there’s a smoker here that fits your backyard, balcony, or tailgate.
1. Best Overall: Masterbuilt Digital 30” Electric Smoker
The Masterbuilt Digital 30” takes the crown as the most reliable and versatile compact smoker of 2025.
Its digital thermostat and 730 sq. in. of cooking space make it big enough for family feasts yet
compact enough for apartment patios. Add in the side wood chip loader and insulated body,
and you’ve got a near hands-off experience.
If you want convenience without sacrificing authentic smoke flavor, this is our #1 pick.
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
AVAILABLE ON WALMART
2. Best Budget: Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker
For under $200, the Cuisinart COS-330 offers unbeatable value.
Its three chrome racks provide plenty of space for ribs and chicken,
while the simple analog dial keeps the learning curve short.
It’s lightweight, easy to store, and a great entry point for anyone who wants
a good small electric smoker without breaking the bank.
Perfect for beginners, students, and casual weekend BBQ fans.
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
AVAILABLE ON WALMART
3. Best for Small Spaces: Old Smokey Electric Smoker
If you’re short on space but big on flavor, the Old Smokey delivers.
Its compact barrel design and light weight make it the best mini electric smoker
for balconies, RVs, and tailgating. Despite the small footprint, it smokes everything
from brisket to fish with authentic taste. Minimal setup, no-frills design,
and rock-solid reliability make it a cult favorite.
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
AVAILABLE ON WALMART
Final Word
Ready to smoke like a pro without the hassle of charcoal or propane?
Our top pick, the Masterbuilt Digital 30”, is the best small electric smoker
for most people in 2025. It’s beginner-friendly, reliable, and delivers delicious results every time.
Click below to grab yours and take your BBQ game to the next level.
I prefer getting a bigger smoker as you never know when you might need to host more that 2 people.
I’ve a small electric smoker and it works just as good as a bigger smoker. Infact, using a smaller smoker cooks faster as it takes lesser time to really heat up the smoker.
Personally, I would just buy the normal size smoker.