Electric Smoker vs Pellet Smoker: The Differences Explained
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Electric Smoker vs Pellet Smoker: The Differences Explained
Are you looking to purchase a smoker but aren’t sure which one to buy?
The main thing you need to consider when buying a smoker is whether you want a pellet or an electric smoker. What’s the difference between an electric smoker and a pellet smoker? Which one is best for your needs?
Read this electric smoker vs. pellet smoker guide to determine which is right for you.
Electric vs. Pellet Smoker: The Main Differences
Electric and pellet smokers are both popular grilling devices. Both smokers use electricity, meaning that each uses about the same energy.
The most significant difference is how each operates. Pellet smokers operate using wood pellets. On the other hand, electric smokers only use electricity, and wood chips are only used to create a smokier flavor.
Whichever you choose, know that both options can help you cook your food to its desired temperature and achieve its desired flavor.
Electric Smoker: Pros
Electric smokers tend to be more affordable than pellet smokers, so they’re an excellent option for those on a budget. They come with a vertical design, ideal for those looking to save space. However, even though they’re smaller, they can still accommodate large cuts of meat, so you don’t need to compromise on capacity.
Operating an electric smoker is also very straightforward, and you’ll likely find it as simple as operating a kitchen oven. Many modern models come with intuitive touchscreen displays that allow you to select the exact temperature of your cooking chamber.
Some also come with Bluetooth controls, allowing you to adjust the cooking temperature from your smart device. It also comes with a straightforward loading system for wood chips, and many of these smokers allow you to add the chips without opening the door, so you can still preserve the cooking chamber’s temperature.
Electric smokers also offer a clean and environmentally friendly energy source. You won’t have to worry about disturbing your neighbors with drifting smoke. Electric smokers are also an excellent option for those who live in apartments or condos that don’t allow natural outdoor fires.
While electric smokers can accommodate large foods, they also do a great job of cooking small foods. The cleanup is easy, as electric smokers make almost no mess.
Electric Smoker: Cons
While electric smokers are affordable, compact, and easy to clean, there are some downsides to keep in mind. Electric smokers are unsuitable for grilling, as they can’t achieve enough heat to sear or grill meat.
Additionally, while the food from an electric smoker tastes excellent, it doesn’t have the same level of smokiness that a pellet smoker offers. And while electric smokers are easy to operate, it can take a bit of practice to get the meat to get juicy and succulent meat.
Electric smokers also need power sources, so you must ensure you have a spot near an electrical outlet to plug it in.
Pellet Smoker: Pros
Pellet smokers are best known for producing flavor-infused meat and veggies that taste like they were cooked on an open fire. The pellets are inexpensive, and you can even select from a wide range of different pellet flavors. Experimenting with different pellet flavors can be fun until you find a favorite.
Pellet smokers come with augers that automatically feed the correct pellets to heat your food, giving you time to sit back and relax while cooking. Like electric smokers, many pellet smokers use modern technology that allows you to adjust the cooking chamber’s temperature using a remote control. This feature is excellent for slow cooking, allowing you to enjoy time with family and friends before cranking up the temperature near the end to lock in the flavors.
You can also opt for a pellet smoker model with grilling capabilities to cook your food more quickly. Additionally, pellet smokers are easy to clean and don’t make a big mess.
Pellet Smoker: Cons
Like electric smokers, pellet smokers also require a power source. Additionally, pellet smokers tend to be more expensive than electric smokers, so they may not be the right option if you’re on a tight budget.
You’ll also need to plan a bit to use your pellet smoker, as not every store keeps smoking pellets stocked, so you may need to order them online. If you want to have a spontaneous barbecue, it’s wise to keep a stockpile.
Also, keep in mind that pellet smokers can’t accommodate as much meat as electric smokers.
Electric vs. Pellet Smoker: Which is Right for You?
So, how do you decide between an electric or pellet smoker? If you want your meat to have a more infused smoke flavor, then a pellet smoker is the right choice. While electric smokers offer a smoky flavor, it’s much lighter than a pellet smoker.
Regarding heating and cooking capacity, remember that electric smokers cannot reach grilling heat. However, you do have the option to cook several cuts of meat simultaneously. On the other hand, pellet smokers allow you to grill and sear meat.
Also, keep in mind that pellet smokers are more expensive and come with ongoing costs, as you’ll need to replace the hardwood pellets. However, it can be fun to experiment with different flavors.
Time to Buy a Smoker!
Now that you know the differences between an electric smoker and vs. pellet smoker, it’s time to make your selection. If you’re after a pellet smoker, you’ve come to the right place.
You can shop our selection or contact us today to learn more about pellet smokers!
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