If you do not know much about Masterbuilt 40-inch electric smokers, then you have come to the right place. There are three main 40-inch wide models to choose from, which makes it a little more difficult to know which one is the best for you. In this article, I will try to explain the similarities in the three models and point out some differences.
Common Features of Masterbuilt 40-Inch Smokers
There are 3 main 40-inch smoker models that are covered in this article:
- Masterbuilt MES 35B
- Masterbuilt 20075315
- Masterbuilt 20070311
These smokers have some features that you can count on being fairly consistent between the 3 models. Here’s a summary of those features for your review.
1. Side Wood Chip Loading System
One of the best features of the Masterbuilt 40-inch smokers is the side wood chip loader. This is a patented system which allows you to add wood chips and additional flavor to your smoke without opening the main door. This means you won’t be letting out heat and smoke just to add more wood chips to attain that smoky flavor.
The only smoker that does not have this patented system is the MES 35B. This one has a wood chip tray that slides out for easy refilling.
2. Removable Water Tray
Each of the Masterbuilt 40-inch smokers has a removable water tray. This is an important feature because it makes it easy to refill it with water at any time during the cooking process. You can even mix the water with liquid smoke flavors to add additional tastes to your grilled food.
3. Temperature Gauge
Another common feature you can count on is the integrated temperature gauge. The MES 35B model has an analog gauge, but it is clearly positioned on the front of the smoker so you can easily read the temperature at any time.
The other two 40-inch smokers have an integrated thermostat to deliver consistent temperatures while smoking your food. A digital controller clearly displays the current internal temperature of the smoker based on the thermostat.
4. Warranty
Masterbuilt provides an express warranty on all of its 40-inch smokers for 1-year from the original date of purchase. Although the warranty does not cover the paint finish or protect against rust, it will cover all defects in material and workmanship.
Masterbuilt 40-Inch Smoker Reviews
Now that you know about the common features of the Masterbuilt 40-inch smokers, let’s review each smoker in more detail and point out some pros and cons of each one.
Masterbuilt 20070311 40-Inch Top Controller Electric Smoker With Window And RF Controller
This stainless steel 40-inch electric smoker has a digital controller on the top of the unit. It features 4 chrome-coated cooking racks with 975-square inches of cooking space.
The small viewing window on the front lets you keep an eye on your food while it is cooking. The digital controller on the top of the smoker allows you to read the current temperature and turn on the internal light.
You can also use the remote control to monitor and change the temperature when needed. This lets you go about your business at home while the smoker does all the work.
This smoker has a rear handle and rear wheels so you can move the smoker around your backyard or patio whenever you need to. You will love the consistent results you get from this smoker and the fabulous flavors that you can produce. You will be the envy of your neighborhood once you start cooking with this smoker!
Pros:
- 975-square inches of cooking space
- Rear handle and wheels for mobility
- Small viewing window
- Add water and wood chips without opening the door
- Remote control
Cons:
- Viewing window is pretty small
- Requires a cover to protect it from the weather
Masterbuilt MES 35B Electric Smoker
This electric smoker from Masterbuilt is a cabinet-style smoker which features 3 chrome-coated smoking racks. With this smoker, even if you are a beginner, you can achieve competition-ready results right in your backyard!
Forget trying to cook with charcoal or propane. Simply plug in this electric smoker, set your controls, place your food in the smoker and let it do the rest of the work for you.
The built-in temperature gauge lets you monitor the internal temperature of the smoker while your food is cooking. You can slide out the wood chip tray to add additional wood chips and flavor at any time while you are grilling your food.
This smoker even has a front access grease tray to catch excess food drippings. This is a great smoker for a beginner and the quality construction will ensure this smoker lasts for a long time.
Pros:
- Features 3 chrome-coated racks
- Wood chip tray slides out for easy access
- Removable water bowl to add moisture at any time
- Front access grease tray
- Adjustable damper for smoke
Cons:
- Does not have a viewing window
- Temperature gauge is analog and not digital so it’s difficult to read
Masterbuilt 20075315 40-Inch Front Controller Smoker With Viewing Window And Remote Control
This stainless steel Masterbuilt smoker is 40-inches wide and features 4 chrome-coated smoking racks. The wide smoke chamber and spacious racks gives you plenty of room for preparing slabs of ribs and even whole chickens! The large viewing window on the front lets you keep an eye on your food without opening the main door.
The digital panel on the front of the smoker gives you quick and easy access to view the current internal temperature and turn on the chamber light. It even comes with a remote control so you can walk away from the smoker and do other things around your house while your food is cooking.
Masterbuilt has designed a patented side wood chip loading system so you can add chips without losing heat and smoke! The integrated thermostat offers even temperature control so you end up with tender, flavorful food that will leave your mouth watering!
If you want a sleek smoker that will deliver consistent results, consider this Masterbuilt 40-inch smoker. You will love the results every time!
Pros:
- Features 4 chrome-coated racks
- Add wood chips without opening the door
- Viewing window
- Remote control
Cons:
- Exterior tends to rust if left out in the elements
The Verdict
If you do not have experience with smoking food, you may want to start with the more economical model: the MES 35B. This lets you try smoking food without breaking the bank.
For the more experienced smoker, the 20075315 or the 20070311 model will give you all the bells and whistles you need. Regardless of which model you choose, a Masterbuilt smoker will be a game changer in your home!