Masterbuilt Analog Electric Smoker MB20070210 review spacious design and smoking performance tested

Description

An Easy-to-Use Smoking Experience with the Masterbuilt 30-Inch Analog Electric Smoker, Model MB20070210

I recently had the chance to try out the Masterbuilt 30-inch Analog Electric Smoker, and I must say, it’s been a pretty solid addition to my outdoor cooking setup. As someone who loves the taste of smoked meat but lacks the patience to deal with charcoal or propane on a regular basis, this smoker promised simplicity and delivered on it. The analog controls are refreshingly straightforward, making it a great option for anyone new to smoking or looking for a no-fuss experience.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stood out to me about this smoker is its compact yet spacious vertical design. Measuring 20″ deep by 22″ wide and standing 40″ tall, it fits neatly on my patio without taking up excessive space. Despite its smaller footprint, the smoker offers a generous 535 square inches of cooking space. That’s plenty of room to fit up to three chickens, two turkeys, or even three racks of ribs. This came in handy for a recent family barbeque where I put its capacity to the test.

Constructed with alloy steel on the outside and stainless steel inside, the smoker feels durable and well-made. The black finish looks sleek and blends well with other outdoor cooking equipment. Weighing in at 49.9 pounds, it is heavy enough to feel sturdy but still manageable to move if needed.

Ease of Use

What I loved most about this smoker is how simple it is to operate. You just plug it in, set the temperature using the analog dial, and let it work its magic. The dial allows for precise temperature settings up to 275°F, which is perfect for low-and-slow cooking. There’s no fiddling with vents or constantly checking fuel levels like you’d have to do with a charcoal or propane smoker. It’s genuinely a plug-and-play solution for smoking enthusiasts.

The removable wood chip tray is another highlight. I experimented with a mix of hickory and applewood chips, and the result was a rich, smoky flavor that infused the meat beautifully. Adding and removing the chips during the cooking process was a breeze, thanks to the convenient tray design.

Moisture and Tenderness – A Game Changer

One feature that deserves a special mention is the removable water bowl. This nifty addition ensures that your meat stays juicy and tender throughout the smoking process. I noticed a significant difference in the texture of my smoked chicken compared to when I used other smokers without this feature. It’s a small touch that goes a long way in enhancing the overall experience.

Highlights

• Analog controls simplify the smoking process, making it accessible to beginners.
• Vertical design with 535 square inches of space accommodates large quantities of food.
• Removable wood chip tray makes it easy to experiment with different flavors.
• Water bowl ensures optimal moisture levels for tender, juicy results.
• Chrome-coated racks are durable and easy to clean.

Areas for Improvement

As much as I enjoyed using this smoker, no product is without its flaws. Here are a few caveats I encountered:

• The analog temperature control is convenient but lacks the precision of digital counterparts. If you’re someone who likes to monitor and adjust temperatures down to the degree, this might feel limiting.
• The rear grease tray, while removable, could be larger. After a long smoking session, I found myself wishing it held a bit more to minimize frequent emptying.
• The maximum temperature of 275°F might not be sufficient for those who want to experiment with higher-heat cooking or searing.

Competing Brands

When it comes to electric smokers, there are a few well-known competitors in the market. For instance, the Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker offers a digital interface and a glass door, allowing you to monitor your food without opening the smoker. However, it comes at a higher price point and has a slightly smaller cooking capacity. On the other hand, the Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker is another option with a similar analog control system, but its build quality and heat retention don’t quite match up to this Masterbuilt model.

Where the Masterbuilt 30-inch Analog Electric Smoker shines is in its simplicity and reliability. While it may not have the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it gets the job done without any unnecessary complications. The combination of ease of use and ample cooking space makes it a strong contender in the budget-friendly segment.

Quality for Price

Considering the features and build quality this smoker offers, I’d call it a smart spending choice for anyone looking to delve into the world of smoking without breaking the bank. It strikes a good balance between affordability and functionality, making it a worthwhile investment for casual and intermediate users alike. While it doesn’t have the advanced features of high-end models, the value proposition here lies in its straightforward operation and reliable performance.

Final Thoughts on the Masterbuilt Analog Electric Smoker

After testing this smoker, I can confidently say it’s a reliable and user-friendly option for anyone looking to enjoy smoked meats without the hassle of traditional methods. It’s not perfect, but the combination of convenience, spacious cooking capacity, and thoughtful features like the water bowl and removable trays make it a great addition to any backyard setup. If you’re in the market for an electric smoker, this one deserves a spot on your shortlist.

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