Are you on the hunt for the best smokers to cook the perfect turkey? Look no further. In this article, we will present the top 6 best smokers for turkey, ranging from traditional to high-tech options. Whether you prefer the time-tested flavor of a charcoal smoker or the convenience of a digital electric smoker, we have you covered. Our professional recommendations are backed by expert research and customer feedback, ensuring you make an informed decision for your next Thanksgiving feast.
Top 6 Best Smokers for Turkey in 2024
1. Traeger Pro 780 Grill and Smoker
The Traeger Pro 780 is a high-end pellet grill and smoker popular for its versatility and premium construction. It has ample capacity for smoking large turkeys.
Features
- 780 square inches of cooking area
- D2 Direct Drive drivetrain for precision temperature control
- WiFIRE technology connects to an app for remote monitoring and control
- Stainless steel construction with double-wall insulation
- Uses wood pellets for heat and smoke
Pros
- Large capacity for turkeys up to 25 lbs
- Precise temperature regulation
- App connectivity provides control away from the grill
- Durable stainless steel build
- Real wood flavor from pellet fuel
Cons
- Expensive purchase price
- Pellet hopper requires refills for longer smokes
- App connectivity can be glitchy
Buyer Reviews:
Helpful reviews:
“I recently purchased the Traeger 780 pro smoker and it has exceeded my expectations. This smoker has allowed me to create delicious meals, from ribs to filet mignon. The Wi-Fi feature and temperature probe ensure perfect cooking every time. Assembly was easy and following recipes is a breeze. Highly recommend this smoker for its capacity and exceptional performance.”- Brad – Buyer on Amazon ( View full reviews)
Reasuring review
“I switched from a vertical propane smoker to a Traeger pellet smoker and couldn’t be happier. The ease of use, mobile app, and consistent results make it a great choice. While the price is somewhat high and there are a few minor drawbacks, the WiFire feature alone is worth it. Highly recommended for those who enjoy smoking and grilling with minimal effort.” T Philip – Buyer on Amazon ( View full reviews)
After researching and considering customer reviews, we highly appreciate this smoker for its high-quality construction and advanced features.
2. Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker
The Masterbuilt MB20071117 is a popular electric smoker known for its consistent, set-it-and-forget-it smoking performance. It’s an excellent choice for smoking turkeys.
Features
- 730 square inches of cooking space – enough for a large turkey or multiple smaller items
- Digital temperature control from 100°F to 275°F
- Integrated meat probe thermometer
- RF remote controls temperature, time, internal light, and on/off
- Double-wall insulation retains heat and smoke
- Patented side wood chip loading system
Pros
- Maintains steady target temperature automatically
- Large capacity accommodates turkeys up to 20 lbs
- Remote control provides monitoring and adjusting convenience
- Insulated for energy efficiency
- Side wood chip loader minimizes opening the door
Cons
- Some users report inconsistent temperature regulation
- Remote has limited range
- Requires frequent wood chip replenishment
With generous space, digital controls, and insulated double walls, the Masterbuilt electric smoker is ideal for smoking juicy, flavored turkeys with minimal effort. It’s a great option for cooks who want the flavor of smoke without the hassle of charcoal or pellet units.
3. Pit Boss 3-Series Analog Electric Vertical Smoker
The Pit Boss 3-Series Analog Electric Smoker delivers excellent smoking performance at a budget-friendly price point. It has ample room for turkeys.
Features
- 700 sq. in. of cooking surface
- Analog controls for temperature dial
- Chrome-plated cooking racks
- Porcelain coated steel exterior
- Built-in wood chip drawer
Pros
- Spacious cooking area fits turkeys up to 16 lbs
- Budget-friendly price under $200
- Vertical design promotes even heat distribution
- Dual meat probes included
- Easy-access wood chip drawer
Cons
- Limited temperature control with analog dial
- Prone to large temperature swings
- Exterior can rust over time
For an affordable smoker that can handle turkeys and other meats with ease, the Pit Boss 3-Series is a great option. While temperature regulation isn’t perfect, the ample space, vertical design, and price make it a top choice for budget-minded turkey smokers.
4. Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker
The Cuisinart COS-330 is an electric smoker acclaimed for its compact size and user-friendly performance. It has enough room for small to medium sized turkeys.
Features
- 330 square inches of cooking space
- Analog temperature dial
- Chrome-plated steel interior
- Double-wall stainless steel exterior
- Built-in wood chip tray
Pros
- Compact and lightweight for portability
- Simple dial controls for set-it-and-forget operation
- Vertical design promotes even smoking
- Tight door seals and insulated walls
- Recipe booklet included
Cons
- Limited cooking capacity for large turkeys
- Prone to temperature fluctuations
- Steel interior prone to rusting
- Short power cord
For its modest size and price, the Cuisinart COS-330 performs admirably as a smoker for smaller turkeys up to 10 lbs. While it can’t compete with larger smokers for cooking capacity, its user-friendly analog controls and portable footprint make it a great choice for basic backyard smoking.
5. Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24″ Vertical Smoker
With 573 square inches of smoking space, Camp Chef’s Smoke Vault 24″ vertical smoker is a versatile pick for smoking turkeys. Its propane fuel makes it easy to use.
Features
- 24″ wide x 18″ deep cooking area
- Three adjustable smoking racks
- Matchless snap-ignition propane burner
- Built-in thermometer
- Large front access door
- Wood chip tray and water pan
Pros
- Generous cooking space for turkeys up to 18 lbs
- Propane fuel lights easily and heats quickly
- Adjustable racks provide flexibility
- Built-in thermometer for quick monitoring
- Front access door simplifies loading and unloading
Cons
- Temperature control could be more precise
- Large footprint for a small cooking area
- Prone to rusting without proper maintenance
For effortless propane-fired smoking with ample room for mid-sized birds, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24″ is a worthy option. Convenient snap ignition and front door access help make the smoking process smooth from start to finish.
6. Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker Smoker
The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is a classic charcoal smoker revered for its consistent low-and-slow smoking performance. Its bullet-shaped design excels at smoking turkeys.
Features
- 470 square inches of cooking surface
- Porcelain-enameled bowl and lid
- Two cooking grates
- Water pan
- Individual vents on bowl and lid
- Built-in thermometer
Pros
- Iconic, time-tested bullet smoker design
- Excellent heat and smoke regulation
- Large enough for turkeys up to 18 lbs
- Fuel efficient and easy to use
- Durable, rust-resistant construction
Cons
- Smaller capacity than upright smokers
- Requires charcoal and wood chip replenishment
- Learning curve for new users
For decades, backyard smokers have relied on the Weber Smokey Mountain’s legendary smoking performance. Offering incredible temperature control in a classic bullet shape, it remains one of the best charcoal smokers for smoking moist, flavorful turkeys.
So, What is the best Smoker for Turkey?
After considering factors such as cooking capacity, temperature control, and price, it’s clear that the Traeger Pro 780 Grill is the top pick for smoking turkeys. Its advanced features, ample cooking space, and proven performance make it a well-rounded choice for both beginner and experienced smokers alike.
However, all of the smokers on this list offer unique features and benefits that may suit different needs and preferences. Ultimately, the best smoker for you will depend on your specific cooking goals and budget. Whether you choose an electric, propane, or charcoal smoker, any of these top picks will help you achieve delicious smoked turkeys for your next feast.
Randolph Castillo is the owner of a restaurant barbecue and pub. He also has his own cooking blog, where he specializes in baked goods. Randolph is an experienced chef and loves to review different grills and kitchen tools. He is always looking for ways to improve his cooking skills.