20 Best Electric Smokers to Buy for Catering

Electric smokers have become a popular appliance for outdoor cooking enthusiasts, backyard grillers, and professional caterers alike. Not only do they provide a delicious, smoky flavor to meats and other dishes, but they also offer convenience and ease of use compared to traditional smokers.

However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which electric smoker is the best fit for your catering needs. In this article, we’ll explore the 20 best electric smokers to buy for catering, highlighting their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.

Best Electric Smokers to Buy for Catering

1. Masterbuilt MB20074719 Bluetooth Digital Electric Smoker

The Masterbuilt MB20074719 is a Bluetooth-enabled electric smoker with a large capacity of 40 inches. It features four chrome-coated smoking racks that provide ample space for catering to large groups of people. The digital control panel is user-friendly and easy to operate, and it allows you to monitor and adjust the temperature and time settings via your smartphone.

Pros:

• Bluetooth connectivity makes it easy to monitor and control the smoker from your smartphone.
• The large capacity of 40 inches is ideal for catering events with a large number of guests.
• The removable drip pan and rear-mounted grease tray make cleaning up after a catered event a breeze.

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with the Bluetooth connection dropping out.
• The smoker may not reach high temperatures as quickly as other models.

2. Bradley Smoker BS916 Digital Electric Smoker

The Bradley Smoker BS916 is a digital electric smoker that offers excellent temperature control, making it ideal for catering.

It features a large interior capacity of 780 square inches, and the four adjustable racks allow you to cook multiple dishes simultaneously. The digital control panel is easy to use, and the automatic smoke generator allows you to set it and forget it.

Pros:

• The automatic smoke generator ensures consistent smoke output, even at low temperatures.
• The four adjustable racks provide ample space for catering events.
• The compact design makes it easy to transport to different locations.

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with the smoker not heating up to the desired temperature.
• The exterior may get hot to the touch, so caution must be exercised when handling it.

3. Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker

The Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker is a versatile smoker that offers a range of temperature settings, making it ideal for catering to a variety of dishes.

It features a large cooking capacity of 725 square inches and four adjustable racks that can accommodate large cuts of meat or multiple dishes simultaneously. The digital control panel is easy to use and allows for precise temperature control.

Pros:

• The range of temperature settings allows for versatile cooking options.
• The large capacity is ideal for catering events.
• The built-in meat probe ensures that your dishes are cooked to perfection.

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with the smoker not heating up to the desired temperature.
• The exterior may get hot to the touch, so caution must be exercised when handling it.

4. Smoke Hollow 30162E Electric Smoker

The Smoke Hollow 30162E is a basic electric smoker that is ideal for catering events where space is limited. It features a compact design and a cooking capacity of 1.3 cubic feet, making it easy to transport to different locations. The two adjustable racks provide ample space for catering to small groups of people.

Pros:

• The compact design makes it easy to transport to different locations.
• The two adjustable racks provide ample space for small catering events.
• The affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious caterers.

Cons:

• The small size may not be sufficient for catering larger events.
• The lack of advanced features, such as a digital control panel, may not be ideal for more experienced caterers

5. Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D Digital Electric Smoker

The Dyna-Glo DGU732BDE-D is a digital electric smoker with a large cooking capacity of 732 square inches. It features four adjustable racks that can accommodate a variety of dishes, and the digital control panel allows for precise temperature control. The insulated design ensures consistent heat distribution, making it ideal for catering events.

Pros:

• The large cooking capacity is ideal for catering events with a significant number of guests.
• The insulated design ensures consistent heat distribution, which is important for cooking multiple dishes.
• The digital control panel allows for precise temperature control.

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with the smoker not heating up to the desired temperature.
• The exterior may get hot to the touch, so caution must be exercised when handling it.

6. Pit Boss Grills 77221 Digital Electric Smoker

The Pit Boss Grills 77221 is a digital electric smoker with a large cooking capacity of 2,165 square inches, making it one of the largest electric smokers on the market. It features four porcelain-coated cooking racks that can accommodate a variety of dishes, and the digital control panel allows for precise temperature control. The large window and external heat indicator make it easy to monitor your food without opening the door.

Pros:

• The large cooking capacity is ideal for catering events with a significant number of guests.
• The large window and external heat indicator make it easy to monitor your food without opening the door.
• The digital control panel allows for precise temperature control.

Cons:

• The large size may make it challenging to transport to different locations.
• The lack of advanced features, such as a digital control panel, may not be ideal for more experienced caterers

7. Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill

The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill is a high-end option that is perfect for catering events. It features a large cooking surface and a digital control panel that allows you to set the temperature and time. The smoker also has a hopper that can hold up to 18 pounds of pellets.

8. Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker

The Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker is a budget-friendly option that is perfect for smaller catering events. It has a compact design and a 548 square inch cooking space. The smoker also features a digital control panel that makes it easy to set the temperature and time.

9. Masterbuilt 20077615 Digital Electric Smoker

The Masterbuilt 20077615 Digital Electric Smoker is a reliable option that is perfect for catering events. It has a large cooking space and four chrome-coated smoking racks. The smoker also features a digital control panel that allows you to set the temperature and time.

10. Smoke Hollow PS40B Propane Smoker

The Smoke Hollow PS40B Propane Smoker is a great option for outdoor catering events. It features a large cooking surface and four adjustable cooking grates. The smoker also has a propane fuel source, which makes it easy to use outdoors.

11. Pit Boss 700FB Pellet Grill

The Pit Boss 700FB Pellet Grill is a versatile option that can be used for smoking, grilling, and roasting. It has a large cooking surface and a digital control panel that allows you to set the temperature and time. The smoker also has a hopper that can hold up to 18 pounds of pellets.

12. Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett Pellet Grill

The Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett Pellet Grill is a compact option that is perfect for smaller catering events. It features a portable design and a digital control panel that allows you to set the temperature and time. The smoker also has a hopper that can hold up to 9 pounds of pellets.

13. Smoke Hollow SH19079518 Electric Smoker

The Smoke Hollow SH19079518 Electric Smoker is a reliable option that is perfect for catering events. It has a large cooking space and three adjustable cooking grates. The smoker also features a digital control panel that makes it easy to set the temperature and time.

14. Char-Broil Deluxe XL Digital Electric Smoker

The Char-Broil Deluxe XL Digital Electric Smoker is a versatile option that can be used for smoking, roasting, and grilling. It features a large cooking space and four adjustable smoking racks. The smoker also has a digital control panel that allows you to set the temperature and time.

15. Camp Chef SmokePro SG Pellet Grill

The Camp Chef SmokePro SG Pellet Grill is a high-end option that is perfect for catering events. It features a large cooking surface and a digital control panel that allows you to set the temperature and time. The smoker also has a hopper that can hold up to 22 pounds of pellets.

16. Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker

The Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker is a reliable option that is perfect for catering events. It has a large cooking space and four chrome-coated smoking racks. The smoker also features a digital control panel that allows you to set the temperature and time.

17. Bradley Smoker BTDS108P Electric Smoker

The Bradley Smoker BTDS108P Electric Smoker is a versatile option that can smoke, roast, and barbecue. It features a large cooking space and a digital control panel that allows you to set the temperature and time. The smoker also has a unique smoke generator that produces clean smoke for up to eight hours.

18. Traeger Grills Pro Series 780 Pellet Grill

The Traeger Grills Pro Series 780 Pellet Grill is a high-end option that is perfect for catering events. It features a large cooking surface and a digital control panel that allows you to set the temperature and time. The smoker also has a hopper that can hold up to 18 pounds of pellets.

19. Smoke Hollow SH19050211 Electric Smoker

The Smoke Hollow SH19050211 Electric Smoker is a reliable option that is perfect for catering events. It has a large cooking space and three adjustable cooking grates. The smoker also features a digital control panel that makes it easy to set the temperature and time.

20. Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker Deluxe

The Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker Deluxe is a versatile option that can be used for smoking, roasting, and grilling. It features a large cooking space and four adjustable smoking racks. The smoker also has a digital control panel that allows you to set the temperature and time.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Electric Smokers for Catering

1. Cooking Capacity: Choose an electric smoker that can cater to your cooking needs, depending on the number of people you plan to cook for.
2. Temperature Control: Make sure the electric smoker has a reliable temperature control system that enables you to adjust and maintain the temperature accurately.
3. Durability: A sturdy and robust electric smoker can withstand constant use, ensuring it lasts for years.
4. Brand Reputation: Choose a trusted brand with a history of producing high-quality electric smokers that are reliable and long-lasting.
5. Size: Determine the size of the electric smoker that is appropriate for your needs.
6. Portability: If you plan to move your electric smoker around frequently, choose a portable model with wheels.
7. Fuel Efficiency: Opt for an electric smoker that is energy efficient and does not consume too much electricity.
8. Ease of Use: Choose an electric smoker that is easy to use, with a user-friendly interface and clear instructions.
9. Maintenance: Ensure the electric smoker is easy to clean and maintain, with removable racks and drip pans.
10. Price: Determine your budget and choose an electric smoker that offers value for money and fits your budget.
11. Warranty: Look for an electric smoker that comes with a warranty to protect your investment.
12. Accessories: Consider electric smokers that come with accessories such as meat thermometers, drip pans, and recipe books.
13. Smoke Production: Opt for an electric smoker that produces enough smoke to give your meats a smoky flavor.
14. Cooking Speed: Choose an electric smoker that can cook your meats quickly, ensuring you meet your catering needs.
15. Customer Reviews: Read customer reviews to gain insights into the pros and cons of different electric smokers.