Electric Smoker vs Gas Smoker: Which One is Better for BBQ?

Human beings have practiced smoking for as long as man has lived. With progress in time, newer and better smoking techniques have emerged through innovation and invention. The latest smoking techniques have been a result of emergency and development of modern technology. You are going to know electric smoker vs gas smoker: which is better a gas smoker or an electric smoker?

Electric and gas smokers represent relatively new and latest smoking techniques. However, there is a considerable difference in the use of both electric smokers and gas smokers. While one type of smoker may be good in a particular aspect, another type may outdo the other in a different aspect.

It is important to have a complete understanding of both strengths and weaknesses of both types of smokers. In determining a better electric smoker, we first looked at major characteristics that define them. Then we moved on to analyze the pros and cons of both electric and gas smokers.

We have made it easier for you to compare and contrast between both smokers. In the end, you will be able to make a sound decision while purchasing one. Between the two, you need to ensure that your choice increases utility based on what you are really looking for.

Electric smoker is a relatively new type of smoker that relies in the thermal energy as the main source of power. It has internal heating element that is powered by electricity to produce heat. The heat produced in turn heats up the chosen type of wood chips to produce smoke.

A number of salient features distinguish electric smokers from other types of smokers. Majorly, it is made unique by its digital panel control. This panel has options for temperature adjustment as well as the specific type of meat being smoked. 

Therefore, electric smokers use electric power to produce heat through an internal heating element.

Once you have access to an electric smoker, simply use the push button to switch it on. The heating element will heat up automatically. Adding four cups of your preferred wood chips is enough to take you for five hours of continuous smoking.

This makes an electric smoker convenient because it does not necessarily require your presence to monitor the smoking process. Despite its range of advantages, an electric smoker also has a few bottlenecks. Read through the pros and cons of electric smoker below to discover more.

Gas smoker is powered by propane or natural gas as the primary source of heat. The heat generated by the heating element is used to produce smoke that is essential for smoking. Throughout the smoking process, you become a companion to your smoker because you will have to be there.

Your task is to keep on monitoring and regulating the heat to achieve consistent smoking temperatures. Using gas smokers, you can achieve higher temperatures that go up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Throughout the smoking process, you can increase or reduce the smoke depending on the type of wood chips you are using. However, as a typical human invention, a gas smoker has both strengths and weaknesses. Read on to find out what they are.

The following comparison is enables you to come up with an informed choice on whether to purchase gas or electric smoker. First, it is important to consider your needs, then think of a smoker with more benefits. 

We will also give our final verdict of the kind of smoker that is generally better. Read on to discover more.

Generally, electric smokers are easier to use compared to gas smokers. Additionally, they are more convenient compared to gas smoker. In electric smoker, Elements such as digital LED displays and integrated food meat thermometer are systematically included for your convenience.

The heating element of an electric smoker is safety designed within the unit. This significantly reduces incidences of accidents because the user is not directly exposed to the heating element. The propane line of a gas smoker should not be left unattended for long. It has to be monitored every now and then.

The price of an enhanced electric smoker roughly ranges from $200 to $400. Although you can get some at a lower or higher price, this is the selling price of most of them. When you need a gas smoker, you will only have to spend around $150.

Having a gas smoker allows you to experience the highest smoking temperatures which you electric smokers might not achieve. Electric smokers on the other hand, have lower temperature ranges compared to gas smokers. This limits you from achieving the extent of smoking you might require.

Many electric smokers have four racks with ample smoking space. The area around an electric smoker is bigger and it is in enclosed form. On the other hand, the gas smoker has a much smaller table top area which often remains open.

Our own analysis in regard to customer needs has brought us to a rational conclusion. Buying electric smoker increases user-utility and convenience. Despite its pros, gas smokers generally fall short of customer needs.

Basically, nearly all of us are seeking conformity with modern technology. We are not just for the ends but means as well. Based on the above identified features, electric smokers are good for both the process and the end results. On the other hand, gas smokers are only good for the end results and not the process.

For these reasons, it is rational to rule out that electric smoker is generally better than gas smoker.

Read more: Weber Spirit vs Genesis Gas Grill

The above guidelines have outlined different aspects that comprise strengths and weaknesses of both types of smokers. The basis for your choice entirely depends on your specific needs, convenience and financial position. If you are in need of a smoker that smokes within the shortest period of time, electric smoker is good for you.

Conversely, if you need an appliance that is fully enhanced, electric smokers utilize high levels of automation. Although gas smokers generally produce better quality of smoked meat, the difference when electric smoker is used is very slight.

Therefore, if your priorities are safety, convenience and conformity to modern technology, go for an electric smoker. However, if all you need is the ultimate quality of smoked meat regardless of the process, consider the gas smoker.