Different Types of Smokers (And How to Choose One)

We picked up our first smoker after moving into our new house, just hoping to make some flavorful chicken on the weekends. But once we started exploring, we realized there were so many types of smokers out there, and each one has its perks. Whether you’re new to backyard smoking or ready to level up, this guide will help you choose what works best for your space, budget, and cooking style.

Infographic listing six types of smokers with labeled images: Offset Smokers, Electric Smokers, Pellet Smokers, Charcoal Smokers, Kamado Grill, and Propane Smokers.

We use both an electric smoker and a Traeger pellet smoker (and we love them for their ease and consistency). While we haven’t used every type of smoker, we’ve researched to help you weigh your options and choose the best fit for you.

You don’t need fancy gear to make great BBQ. You just need the right smoker for your lifestyle. Let’s walk through the different types: what they are, why they work, and who they’re best for.

What Smoker is Right for You?

Start here if you’re asking things like:

“What’s the easiest smoker to use?”
“I have a tiny patio, what will fit?”
“I want bold BBQ flavor, but I don’t want to babysit a fire.”

Smoker comparison chart showing flavor, ease, maintenance, cost, and best use for six smoker types.

Offset Smokers

Budget: $$–$$$ | Best for: Classic pit masters with time and space

Offset smokers are the classic choice. If you've ever seen a Texas-style BBQ setup or BBQ cooking show, they are definitely using offset smokers.

Pros:

Deep, rich smoke flavor
Great for brisket, ribs, and longer smoke times
Traditional and feels like you are doing "real BBQ"

Cons:

Big learning curve
Requires constant fire and temperature management
Takes up a lot of space

Electric Smokers

Budget: $ | Best for: Small patios, busy schedules, first-timers

This is where we started. Our first smoker was an electric model gifted to us by Kadeem's mom, and it’s still the one we recommend to new smokers today.

Pros:

Very beginner-friendly
Consistent temperature control
Compact and easy cleanup

Cons:

Less smoke ring or bark compared to charcoal or wood
Requires access to an outlet
Limited temperature range (not great for hot & fast cooking or getting super crispy skin)

Pro Tip: Use fruit woods (like apple or cherry) to increase the smoke flavor when using an electric smoker.

Front view of a Masterbuilt electric smoker on a wet concrete patio.

Pellet Smokers

Budget: $$ | Best for: Flavor + convenience lovers

Pellet smokers use compressed wood pellets and an automatic feed system for precision and convenience. We use a Traeger and are big fans.

Pros:

“Set it and forget it” functionality
Great for temperature control
Combines real wood smoke with ease of use

Cons:

More expensive than electric or charcoal
Requires electricity and pellets
Not as portable as other types

If you want great flavor with minimal hands-on work, a pellet smoker is a smart investment, especially for weekday cooking or when hosting parties.

Charcoal Smokers

Budget: $–$$ | Best for: DIYers and flavor chasers

Charcoal smokers are the middle ground between tradition and accessibility. You’ll get a strong smoke flavor without the same maintenance as an offset.

Pros:

Big flavor with great crust and bark
Affordable and widely available
Great for chicken, ribs and vegetables

Cons:

Requires frequent temperature monitoring
Ash cleanup and airflow can be tricky
Harder to maintain consistent low temps

Full view of a Traeger pellet smoker on a backyard patio with the digital temperature display set to 272°F.

Kamado Grills (Like Big Green Egg)

Budget: $$$ | Best for: All-in-one grillers

Kamado grills are large ceramic cookers that grill, smoke, roast, and bake.

Pros:

Excellent heat retention
Can smoke, sear, and bake in one
Fuel-efficient

Cons:

Heavy and expensive
Requires specific accessories for the best results
Steeper learning curve

Propane/Gas Smokers

Budget: $–$$ | Best for: Quick cooks and no-fuss BBQ

Gas smokers are fast, efficient, and great for small spaces.

Pros:

Easy to use
No electricity needed
Great for patios and even camping

Cons:

Mild smoke flavor
Needs propane refills
Some models run hot

What We Use (and Recommend)

We started with an electric smoker that was gifted to us and still use it regularly. It’s perfect for days when you are cooking something smaller and want more smoke flavor in less time.
We also use our Traeger when we want more bark and wood-fired depth without managing a fire or are hosting.

Here’s why we recommend starting with electric or pellet smokers:
-They're consistent
-They're beginner-friendly
-They build your confidence

FAQs

Electric smokers are easiest to use. Pellet smokers are next-level easy with better flavor.

It depends on your building's rules and codes, but electric smokers are often allowed because they don’t have open flames similar to electric grills. But don't take our word for it, check with your landlord!

Charcoal gives more flavor, but you have to check on it more often. Electric gives you more room for error and consistency.

You don’t need the most expensive smoker to make great-tasting food. The best smoker is the one that fits your life and budget. Whether that’s a plug-in electric model or a backyard offset rig, you’re already one step closer to amazing flavor. Once you pick a smoker style, wood is the next big lever for flavor. Here’s the best wood for smoking by food type.