Masterbuilt Analog Electric Smoker MB20070210 review competition-ready BBQ with chrome smoking racks

Description

A Practical Look at the Masterbuilt 30-inch Analog Electric Smoker

I’ve been using the Masterbuilt MB20070210 Electric Smoker, and let me tell you, it’s been quite the experience. This smoker brings a lot to the table for anyone who enjoys smoked meats without the fuss of managing charcoal or propane. From its analog temperature controls to the 535 square inches of cooking space, it’s a product that promises convenience and performance. Yet, like any tool, it has its quirks. Here’s my honest take after putting it through its paces.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things I noticed was its sturdy alloy steel construction. The black finish gives it a sleek, modern look that blends well with any outdoor setup. It’s not an eyesore, which is always a plus. At 49.9 pounds, it’s not feather-light, but it’s manageable enough to move around when needed. The vertical design is smart; it’s space-efficient while providing plenty of room for cooking. I could easily fit three chickens or two turkeys on the chrome-coated racks, which, by the way, are easy to clean.

But here’s the kicker: the removable rear grease tray. This little feature made cleanup surprisingly painless. I’ve used smokers before that turned cleanup into a chore, so this was a welcome change. However, I did find the water bowl a bit fiddly to handle, especially when it was hot. It’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning on frequent use.

Cooking Performance

The analog temperature dial is simple to use, which is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it’s straightforward to set the temperature up to 275°F, but on the other, it lacks the precision of digital controls. For someone like me, who tends to obsess over exact temperatures, it felt a bit limiting. That said, the results were fantastic. The removable wood chip tray allowed me to experiment with different wood chips, and the smoky flavor it imparted was spot on. Whether it was ribs, pork butts, or a whole chicken, everything came out tender and flavorful.

One thing I noticed is that the smoker holds heat well, thanks to its design. I didn’t have to babysit it constantly, which freed me up to relax and enjoy the process. However, the lack of a built-in thermometer meant I had to rely on my own meat probe, which wasn’t ideal.

Key Benefits

• Generous cooking space with 535 square inches.
• Removable wood chip tray for customizable smoky flavors.
• Water bowl ensures meats stay juicy and tender.
• Rear grease tray simplifies cleanup.
• Chrome-coated racks are durable and easy to clean.

Areas for Improvement

• Analog controls lack the precision of digital options.
• No built-in thermometer, making it necessary to have your own.
• Water bowl handling can be tricky, especially during long cooking sessions.
• Limited temperature range might not suit advanced smoking needs.

Features That Stand Out

The three chrome-coated racks are a game-changer for anyone who wants to cook multiple items simultaneously. I tried smoking a mix of ribs and sausages, and the racks held up without any issues. The removable water bowl was another highlight; it kept the meats from drying out, which is a common problem with some smokers. I also appreciated the rear grease tray, which caught all the drippings without any mess. These small yet thoughtful details make a big difference during use.

Competitive Options

Compared to other smokers in its price range, like the Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker and the Pit Boss Analog Electric Smoker, this one holds its own. The Char-Broil offers digital controls and a viewing window, which are nice to have but come at a higher cost. On the other hand, the Pit Boss has a similar analog control system but feels less sturdy in terms of build quality. Where the Masterbuilt MB20070210 shines is in its simplicity and reliability. It’s not trying to be overly fancy, and for someone who values straightforward functionality, it’s a solid pick.

That said, if you’re someone who prefers more control over the cooking process, a model with digital controls might be worth considering. However, for beginners or those who enjoy a more hands-off approach, this electric smoker delivers.

Quality for Price

It’s hard to argue with the value this smoker provides. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it gets the job done effectively. The large cooking capacity and durable construction make it feel like a worthwhile investment. Sure, there are areas where it could improve, but for the price, it’s a great entry point into the world of smoking. You’re getting reliable performance without breaking the bank, which is always a win in my book.

The Masterbuilt Analog Electric Smoker strikes a balance between functionality and affordability, making it an excellent choice for those who want to dip their toes into smoking without going all-in on a top-tier model. If you’re a seasoned pro, you might find its limitations a bit restrictive, but for everyone else? It’s absolutely worth considering.

Additional information