Review of the Masterbuilt 30 Inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Side Loader
Why This Product Is Worth a Look
Many people look for a straightforward way to add smoke flavor to meats without the effort of managing charcoal or wood fires. This Masterbuilt model offers an electric option that focuses on consistent low-temperature cooking in a vertical format suitable for smaller outdoor spaces.
Product Overview
The Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Side Wood Chip Loader, Chrome Racks and 710 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20071117, is a corded electric vertical smoker. It is intended for low-and-slow cooking of foods such as chicken, turkey, pork butts, and ribs. The unit uses a 650-watt heating element and reaches up to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. It includes a digital control panel, four chrome-coated racks, a water bowl, a side wood chip loader, a drip pan, and a rear grease tray. The design targets users who want an electric alternative to traditional smokers.
Design, Build, and Everyday Feel
The cabinet measures roughly 20.9 inches wide, 19.8 inches deep, and 33.3 inches tall, with a weight near 45.9 pounds. The exterior is black painted steel with plastic trim. Inside, heat-reflective aluminum lines the walls, and four chrome racks sit in adjustable channels with about five inches of clearance between levels. The side wood chip loader uses a tube-and-handle mechanism. A top-mounted digital panel handles settings, while an adjustable top vent and removable water bowl and grease tray support basic operation. The unit has two adjustable rear legs but no wheels, so moving it requires lifting.
Key Features
Digital controls allow setting temperature and a timer up to 24 hours with automatic shut-off. This provides set-and-forget operation within the 100 to 275 degree range, though users may still want an external thermometer for verification. The patented side wood chip loader lets chips be added without opening the main door, which helps maintain internal temperature and moisture, but the tray holds a limited amount that may require refills every 45 to 60 minutes. The removable water bowl sits above the heating element to add moisture and catch drippings, which can improve tenderness, though flavor changes from added liquids tend to be subtle. The 710 square inches of cooking area across four racks fits up to six chickens or four pork butts according to the manufacturer, yet the 15-inch rack width can limit placement of full-length ribs or large briskets without trimming. The fully insulated double-wall body and top vent work together to retain heat and manage airflow, supporting steady temperatures in varying weather while requiring periodic vent adjustments to avoid stale smoke buildup.
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What It May Be Like to Use
Based on the available product information, typical use involves plugging in the unit, setting the temperature and timer on the top panel, and adding wood chips through the side loader as needed. The insulated cabinet helps hold target temperatures between 180 and 275 degrees, though a temperature difference of up to 20 degrees between top and bottom racks has been noted in similar vertical designs. Wood chips ignite more readily at higher settings, and the removable components simplify basic cleanup after cooking.
What Works Well
The insulated cabinet supports consistent heat retention during longer cooks. The side loader reduces heat loss when adding wood. Digital operation removes the need for constant fire management. Removable parts make post-cook cleaning more direct. The vertical layout provides a compact footprint while offering substantial total rack area.
Things to Consider
The 15-inch rack width may require cutting larger cuts to fit. Temperature can vary between rack levels, so rotating food or using an independent thermometer is often helpful. The wood chip tray empties quickly during active smoking. Electric components can be affected by prolonged exposure to rain or winter conditions. No wheels means manual lifting for repositioning.
Who Is This Product For?
This smoker suits beginners or busy households seeking an electric unit for consistent low-temperature results without live-fire maintenance. It fits patios with access to an outlet. It may not suit those who regularly cook full-size briskets or long rib racks without modification, or those who prefer the hands-on process of charcoal or offset smokers.
Helpful Tips Before You Buy
Season the unit with an initial high-temperature run and wood chips to remove manufacturing residues. Use an external probe thermometer routed through the top vent for accurate readings. Keep the vent open during smoking to maintain airflow. Store the smoker under a fitted cover or indoors when not in use to protect electronics. Plan to refill the chip loader every 45 to 60 minutes for steady smoke.
Common Questions
How much food fits inside? The manufacturer states capacity for up to six chickens, two turkeys, four pork butts, or four racks of ribs, depending on arrangement. Does it produce a smoke ring? Electric heating typically yields less visible smoke ring than offset smokers, though wood smoke flavor still develops. How often are wood chips added? The tray usually needs refilling every 45 to 60 minutes during active smoking. Is assembly required? Minimal assembly takes about 15 minutes with a Phillips screwdriver. Can it be used in cold weather? The insulated body helps, but electronics should be protected from moisture. What maintenance is needed? Empty the grease tray, clean racks and water bowl after each use, and avoid scrubbing interior walls excessively.
Final Thoughts
The Masterbuilt MB20071117 provides reliable temperature control and user convenience for low-and-slow smoking in a compact vertical format. Its strengths include steady heat retention, easy digital operation, and the side loader for maintaining internal conditions. Limitations center on rack width for larger cuts, potential temperature variation between levels, and the need for weather protection. It works best for those who want straightforward electric smoking without managing fires, provided they accept the size constraints and occasional chip refills. Overall, it serves as a practical choice within its intended low-temperature electric category when used with basic precautions.
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