Best Indoor Smokers
Smoking food is a common technique for preparing food with some extra juicy flavor. It may look simple, but there many things that help you to prepare perfectly smoked food. The best indoor smoker is the most important of all. Featuring a compact size with excellent features for smoking, an indoor smoker is the best way to smoke a variety of food. Simply place your food inside the smoker, plug in the smoker, and enjoy deliciously smoked food. But wait; do you know which the best indoor smoker on the market is? Whether you are buying an indoor smoker for the first time or replacing the old ones with the modern indoor smoker, these 10 best indoor smokers can help you in making the right choice.
Best Indoor Smokers - Top 8 Picks
1. Emson 8303 Indoor Pressure Smoker
| Model | 8303 |
| Brand | Emson |
| Fuel Type | Electric |
| Barbeque Material | Chrome-Plated |
| Dimensions | 13.2 x 13.2 x 12.6 inches - LxWxH |
| Color Category | Silver |
| Weight | 10.7 Pounds |
| Max. Temperature | 300+ °F |
| Warranty | 2-Year |
As compared to other electric smokers on the market, this best indoor smoker uses an internal pressure of 15 psi, which decreases the cooking time by a significant margin. However, the prime feature of this unit is the cold smoke settings that make it unique. In traditional or cold smoke settings, this smoker can conveniently handle about four pounds of food. Don’t forget to cut it down to properly fit the circular cooking area.
Featuring the typical digital controls, the smoker allows you to set the smoking time. You cannot set the temperature with this product. The parts are manufactured with stainless steel, which means you can hand wash them easily.
The internal chamber of this corded electric smoker needs only three to five wood chips to infuse genuine barbecue smoke flavor into your food. This Emson pressure cooker is an ideal choice for ribs, beef, sausages, and chicken. You can also use the cold smoker feature for fish and cheese.
Pros
- Fast cooking time
- Need little wood chips to smoke
- 2 years warranty on the product
- Comes with a cold smoke feature
- Sturdy stainless-steel design to prevent scratches
Cons
- Needs proper assembling before smoking
2. Nordic Ware Indoor/Outdoor Kettle Smoker
| Model | Kettle Smoker |
| Brand | Nordic Ware |
| Fuel Type | Wood_pellet |
| Smoking Racks | 1 |
| Dimensions | 6.88 x 13 x 13.5 inches - LxWxH |
| Color Category | Red |
| Weight | 8.14 Pounds |
| Max. Temperature | 210 °F |
| Warranty | 1-Year |
This versatile indoor and outdoor electric smoker is one of the best stovetop smokers on the market. It’s perfectly designed to modify simple foods into top-class dishes. This electric smoker infuses flavor improving smoke into various foods, including meat, seafood, and poultry. The kettle smoker comes with a great build and structure, but the size is small.
The cooking surface, along with the high dome cover, is good enough to cook a whole chicken. The lid seals tightly to keep both heat and smoke inside the smoker for juicy flavor. Its built-in thermometer helps to track the temperature accurately. The smoker is overall easy to operate with no complicated settings.
All you need is to control the number of wood chips to get the desired smoky taste. One of the best addition to this indoor smoker is the non-stick parts that are effortless to remove and clean up. The handles are not coated with steel, so you have to be careful when lifting the smoker.
Pros
- Easy to clean up
- Vents to control the smoke
- Dome lid to fit a whole chicken
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- Durable, sturdy build, lids are sealed tightly
Cons
- Relatively small
3. Charcoal Companion KitchenQue Smoker
| Model | KitchenQue Indoor Stovetop Smoker |
| Brand | Charcoal Companion |
| Fuel Type | Propane, Charcoal |
| Barbeque Material | Chrome-Plated |
| Dimensions | 13.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches - LxWxH |
| Color Category | Black |
| Weight | 6.67 Pounds |
| Max. Temperature | 400 °F |
Smoke your favorite foods, including ribs, chicken, and many more with this Charcoal companion KitchenQue Stovetop smoker. Compatible with most stovetops, this smoker can reach 400 Fahrenheit to smoke food in a perfect way. One of the best features of this smoker for a small kitchen is its compact size that doesn’t need much space.
The coated steel body of this indoor smoker is durable enough to resist different weather conditions. Also, it can perfectly retain smoke and heat inside the smoker to prepare an excellent smoked meal for you. All you need is to place superfine woodchips at the bottom of the tray, add a grease catcher along with the grill on the top.
It features a built-in thermometer to help you monitor the status of your food. The smoker has heat-safe silicone handles on the lid and base. Other notable features include a stainless steel grate, Hickory InstaSmoke, and an enameled steel drip pan. The parts of the smoker are easy to clean and need a hand wash service.
Pros
- Real wooden flavor
- Compact size
- Easy to use and clean
- Heat-safe silicone handles
- Compatible with most stovetops
Cons
- Can’t cold smoke
4. Royal Gourmet 28 Inch Electric Smoker
| Model | SE2801 |
| Brand | Royal Gourmet |
| Fuel Type | Electric |
| Barbeque Material | Chrome-coated |
| Dimensions | 37.1 x 19 x 20.6 inches - LxWxH |
| Color Category | Black |
| Weight | 48.4 Pounds |
| Max. Temperature | 302 °F |
Featuring a spacious cooking surface of 457.86 square inches, this Royal Gourmet 28 Inch Electric Smoker is a great way to smoke turkeys, pies, and ribs. It has three chrome-coated adjustable racks that can be easily adjusted to fit in food with various sizes. This electric smoker comes with double-wall construction to provide better thermal insulation. Also, it helps to prevent heat and smoke loss for ideal smoked food.
Offering a 1500 watt heating element, this smoker allows you to control the flame accordingly. Also, there is an independent grease cup for a better grease management system. This versatile smoker is good enough for drying, steaming, and firewood grilling and smoked barbecues.
Thanks to the double-wall construction for retaining the smoking heat inside the firebox. The latch system of the door offers excellent seal performance. Also, the cool touch spring handle prevents scalding. Other notable features include a stainless steel water pan, a lidded chip box, and a removable digital controller.
Pros
- Easy to Cleanup
- Ample Food Capacity
- Excellent Flavoring System
- Cool-touch spring door handle
- Removable stainless steel water pan
- External loading slot for wood chips
Cons
- Does not get hot enough
5. Demeyere Resto Indoor Stovetop Smoker
| Model | Demeyere Resto |
| Brand | Demeyere Resto |
| Dimensions | 13 x 11.8 x 7.9 inches - LxWxH |
| Color Category | Silver |
| Weight | 5.8 Pounds |
| Warranty | 2-Year |
One of the best indoor smokers for meat, the Demeyer Resto Stainless Stovetop Smoker, comes with an 18/10 stainless steel and 3 layers of 4mm stainless steel base. This indoor smoker has a domed cover, a smoking chamber, a deep dry base pan, and a nonstick smoking rack. The best thing is that all components of this indoor smoker are dishwasher safe.
You can conveniently smoked meat, poultry, fish, fruit, and vegetables. The smoking chamber allows the smoke to surround the food for perfect penetration and flavor. The key to the smoker is moderation in constant temperatures. You don’t need to use extremely high heat for the best smoking results. The unit comes with 12.5 inches diameter and works fine with any cooking surface, including electric, gas, and induction cooktops.
The smoker is best for both wet and dry smoking. It needs only two tablespoons of wood shavings for the best results. The durable welded handles help you to prevent hands when lifting or moving the indoor smoker. Last but not least, the product comes with a 2-year warranty.
Pros
- Works on all stovetops
- Excellent smoke circulation
- Best for wet and dry smoking
- Comes with 2 years warranty
- All components are dishwasher safe
Cons
- Not for whole chickens and turkeys
6. Char-Broil 17202004 Digital Electric Smoker
| Brand | Camerons |
| Fuel Type | Electric |
| Dimensions | 15 x 11 x 3.5 inches - LxWxH |
| Color Category | Multy |
| Weight | 5.6 Pounds |
| Warranty | 1-Year |
This handy tabletop smoker can be used to smoke vegetables, chicken, fish, and meat. It also doubles as a steamer, a poacher, and a roasting pan. Manufactured from stainless steel, this unit is attractive and durable with good heat conductivity.
There is no temperature control or thermometer on this indoor smoker, so you have to pay full attention to your meal. Though it is not an electric smoker, you can use any heat source to smoke food with this best indoor smoker. You can use this smoking pot for camping to enjoy a juicy smoked flavor without any hassle.
It is just like a stainless steel pod with a lid and a smoking rack. The lid perfectly fits the pot to retain heat and smoke inside for a perfect taste. All you need is to add 1 or 2 tablespoons of wood chips in the center of the pan. Other notable features include a drip pan and nonstick smoking racks. This indoor smoker perfectly works on electric stoves, gas stoves, ceramic cooktops, induction cooktops, ovens, and grills.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Heats up food quickly
- Relatively lightweight
- Functions with a lot of stovetops
- Release a low but significant amount of smoke
Cons
- Lid and handle heats up quickly
7. MITBAK Portable Handheld Indoor Smoker
This portable handheld smoking gun by MITAK is a perfect choice for cold smoking. Adding a delicious smoked flavor to your cooked meal is as simple as you like. There is no need to fire up the backyard BBQ when having this best handheld cold smoker. You can use it to add smoked flavor to a variety of foods, including fish, chicken, beef, cheese, turkey, vegetables, and also deserts.
The smoker generator features a long-lasting rechargeable lithium-ion battery. This powerful battery needs very low maintenance and has a high energy density. One of the best features of this cold indoor smoker is its superior design. It stands upright and flat on the table that allows you to smoke your favorite food without a hassle.
Every smoker has a pack of wood chips for the burn chamber. Featuring three smoking speeds, it comes with a comfortable grip and a stable base. Other notable features of the handheld smoking gun are a dome lid, burn chamber, detachable hose, and smoke infuser.
Pros
- Firm handle grips
- Relatively long hose
- Long battery time
- Comes with a dome lid
- Superior handheld design
Cons
- Need lots of wood chips to smoke food
8. Kaven Smoking Gun Handheld Smoker
| Brand | Kaven |
| Barbeque Material | Alloy |
| Dimensions | 4.17 x 3.98 x 3.11 inches - LxWxH |
| Color Category | Gold |
| Weight | 12.13 Ounces |
Made of alloy material with a solid structure, Kaven smoking can is the best choice to infuse smoke flavor in various foods. This mini wood smoker is specially designed to use different wood chips, including hickory, applewood, mesquite, and cherry wood. It can be used to smoke cheese, nuts, desserts, seafood, meat, beef, fish, cocktail, vegetables, and beverages in seconds.
The infusion smoke is manufactured with a battery cooling window. NO matter how long you use it, the battery will never reach a dangerous temperature. One of the best features of this indoor smoker is its detachable fuel tank. It comes in a compact size with easy storage and cleaning options.
There is no vibration during use, and it offers quiet operation as low as 40 dBA. It is also made with a premium quality motor with an effective heat insulation design. Last but not least, the product is backed up by two years warranty for the user’s convenience.
Pros
- Unique design
- Easy to use and clean
- 2-year warranty
- Easy to clean detachable fuel tank
- Produces less than 40 DB of noise
Cons
- Hard to maneuver
Buying Guide for Best Indoor Electric Smoker
Indoor smokers are typically small than their outdoor counterparts as the best outdoor electric smoker is made to prepare large amounts of food without worrying about the smoke generated. The best indoor smoker is made to cook a small amount of food, but you have to sacrifice the size and smoke amount.
Such products are manufactured to give your food a different color and taste, making it other than what it would taste like if you grilled it. Remember, the taste of smoked food tends to be sweeter as their features typically tenderize and become sweet after smoking.
You can use the best indoor smoker all year round. It doesn’t need any right weather conditions to make them work but just a heat source and electricity. To help you find the best indoor electric smoker for your home, you need to consider the following essential features.
1. Internal Space and Heating Element
One of the most essential features to consider before buying an electric smoker is the internal space for cooking. Though it gases a small cooking space, still you need to consider will it be enough for your gatherings? For instance, if you love to smoke chicken and turkey, a small indoor electric smoker is right for you. But if you prefer beef, then make sure to buy the one with spacious enough space.
The heating element plays a vital role in smoking your food. Make sure to select the best one that offers consistent heating at a proper temperature.
2. Size and Portability
An electric smoker is used in different places. It is not just meant for kitchen use but can be used for outdoor cooking too. Carefully consider the size and weight of the smoker for easy portability. Make sure it fits your car trunk conveniently. Don’t forget to check the handles and wheels for comfortable mobility.
3. Smoke Amount
An indoor smoker must generate a fewer amount of smokers during cooking. Typically they are used in the kitchen, so it is better to check how much smoke the product can generate. When cooking inside the home, you don’t want any smoke to irritate you.
4. Smoking Time
Well, this feature is commonly neglected by most people, but it is essential too. Ask yourself a question, how long can you wait for the food to smoke? Sometimes you want the smoker with fast smoking time, whereas there are also smokers available with slow cooking time. Consider your needs and then make a decision.
5. Easy to Cleaning
An indoor smoker must be appropriately designed for easy cleaning. It will help to prevent you from using aluminum foil for tray and racks each time when you want to smoke your food.
Different types of Indoor Smokers
There are three major types of indoor smokers.
1. Electric Smoker
As the name suggests, electric smokers are operated by electric power. They feature heating elements, thermostats, digital controls, and cooking racks for food. Place the food inside the smoker, plug the cable into a power outlet, and enjoy perfectly smoked food in no time.
2. Handheld smoker
Handheld smokers offer excellent control for smoking food. As compared to indoor smokers, such type of smoker is used to infuse just a pinch of smoky flavors into food. Though handheld smokers are typically operated by battery power, some also need fuel for smoking food.
3. Stovetop Smoker
If you don’t outdoor smoking, then stove-top smokers are ideal for you. The smoker comes with a pan or rack where you place food under the wood chips or dust. Stovetop smokers bring different flavors, tastes, and textures to food. If you love to try new features, these smokers are made for you.
How do Indoor Smokers Work?
If you don’t outdoor smoking, then stove-top smokers are ideal for you. The smoker comes with a pan or rack where you place food under the wood chips or dust. Stovetop smokers bring different flavors, tastes, and textures to food. If you love to try new features, these smokers are made for you.
Pros of Indoor Smokers
Before purchasing an indoor smoker, it is better to know its advantages and drawbacks. Here are the most popular ones.
The indoor smoker fits inside any kitchen space
Whether it is hot or cold weather conditions, these smokers offer excellent smoking performance. You can use them anywhere you want throughout the year.
Best for saving money and time
These smokers help to cut down on household bills by utilizing fewer utilities or wood.
Indoor smokers offer ideal temperature control
As high-tech products, indoor smokers offer precise control of the heat, smoke, temperature, and moisture.
Cons of Indoor Smokers
Indoor smokers are expensive
These smokers are expensive due to the additional functionality. However, indoor smokers can help to save time and money by using fewer utilities.
Need proper care
You have to keep an eye on the indoor smoker to prevent things from ongoing wrong. The smoking process lasts for more than two hours, which means have to pay proper attention to the kitchen during the cooking. Never leave the smoke along while preparing food.
Indoor smoking may change the smell of home
The smoking process produces various types of aromas and flavors during cooking. While the smells rapidly disperse when you are cooking outside, the home will get a smoky flavor when you are smoking food inside.
What is the difference between hot and cold smoking?
Hot smoking
This smoking process allows your food to cook while being smoked. During smoking, the food can get between 212 Fahrenheit and 280 Fahrenheit. You need a heat source for hot smoking. You can use it on briskets, salmon, ribs, and pastrami.
Cold Smoking
During the cold smoking process, your food doesn’t get past 80 Fahrenheit. It allows the meal to remain delicate and raw. In fact, it removes the moisture from food and is best for bacon, vegetables, cheese, and other foods that can melt conveniently when heated. You don’t need any heat source for cold smoke foods.
Conclusion
Indoor smokers are a great addition to your kitchen and parties. The best thing about these smokers is they have a compact design that helps you to store them easily. The portable design allows you to carry them without a hassle and enjoy flavorful smoked food, both indoor and outdoor. Select the best indoor smoke from these top ten units and enjoy your favorite food.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are indoor smokers any good?
Yes, indoor smokers are an excellent choice for flavoring your food. They need less wood and utilities as they are smaller, so they need less wood to smoke along with less propane, gas, or electricity to heat your food as compared to outdoor smokers.
2. Is it safe to use handheld smokers on beverages?
Yes, it is totally safe to use handheld smokers on your favorite drinks.
3. Do indoor smokers produce smoker?
Yes, they only produce smoke inside the chamber but may add a smoky smell to your kitchen.
4. Is it hard to clean indoor smokers?
No, cleaning the indoor smoker is as easy as you like. Most of the parts are dishwasher safe, which allows cleaning them quickly.
5. How long should I smoke meat with an indoor smoker?
You should smoke meat for about 6 to 8 hours. Remember, briskets may take a long time than this.