Wondering whether you should buy a propane or electric smoker? Decisions, decisions, decisions. Knowing what to expect from each is a good place to start.
Propane smokers run on LPG. It is a clean burning fuel that poses no environmental hazard if spilled.
Electric smokers use electricity as a power source. The name may have said. They are usually connected to the mains electricity outdoors using an extension cord or indoors.
This article introduces these two types of smokers and explores what each has to offer. In the end, you should be able to make an informed decision when choosing between a propane smoker and an electric smoker.
Propane Smoker
The best propane smokers come ready to use right out of the box and are extremely sturdy considering their typical cost. They give you a good amount of flexibility when grilling and are a great way of grilling for newcomers.
No matter how good a propane grill is, there are things that we feel could be better. Let’s consider what we love and don’t like about these smokers.
Best Propane Smokers in The Market
Advantages
- It can be used outside the network.
- The fuel delivery from the tank can be adjusted.
- It requires very little or no heating.
- Easy care.
- They are weather resistant.
- Easier to fix.
Disadvantages
- Gas tanks are bulky.
- Temperature regulation can be a challenge.
- Technically not that advanced.
Electric Smoker
Electric smokers tend to be easier to understand. This is because most of us use electric stoves in our homes. We are used to electricity as an energy source. Let’s look at some things we like about electric smokers and what could be better.
Best Electric Smokers in The Market
Advantages
- It’s easy to deliver electricity.
- Doesn’t require much maintenance.
- It’s easy to regulate the temperature.
- It’s environmentally friendly.
- Generally easy.
- Provide the option to set and forget.
- There is advanced technology on board.
Disadvantages
- Not ideal for long-term outdoor use.
- It doesn’t get as hot as the propane.
The Differences Between Propane and Electric Smokers
The first difference that comes to mind when thinking of a propane smoker versus an electric smoker is portability. This comes to mind because an electric smoker requires an outlet. You cannot leave the network. There are limitations when it comes to where it can be used.
Instead, with a propane gas grill, you can take it with you and use it in places that are off the grid. As long as you take the gas with you. Let’s look at other differences between the two.
Initial and Ongoing Costs
The best way to look at costs objectively is to compare similar products. To do this, we analyzed propane gas smokers and electric smokers of the same brand. They have similar if not identical functionality.
In general, we find that electric smokers have a lower starting point than propane smokers. Although you might find other propane cylinders in the same price range, there might be several electric options.
Running costs must also be taken into account. There are two ways to restore an empty propane tank. You can charge or exchange for a full one. Most people used the top-up option. This costs between $3.25 and $4.00 per gallon.
A propane tank gauge is also needed to know when gas pressure is getting low.
Refilling a 20 pound gallon would also cost you about $9.75 if we round up. This would cook for up to 100 hours. Electricity is harder to measure because the price varies from provider to provider and from region to region.
In most cases, however, electricity is cheaper than propane.
Easy to Use
Ignitability, starting time and temperature control are included here. Both electric smokers and propane smokers are fairly easy to light. If we wanted to be hypercritical, we could say that using an electric smoker is a little easier. It gives you a slight advantage in exchange for a faster boot time.
Most propane smoker users must turn on the gas valve manually before lighting the smoker. This will add a few seconds to the turn on and boot times. How strong that is depends on the person.
Ultimate Food Quality
There are some users who will swear that propane smokers make better tasting food than electric smokers. Sometimes he noticed some differences. What I can’t confirm is how these differences relate to the broiler used.
This is something I was unable to replicate during testing. That led me to the conclusion that while there might be some differences between these two smokers. It’s not big enough to be a deciding factor in a purchase.
I think the biggest difference or even separating factor here is the wood smoker. Most of our taste buds adapt to these before moving on to other models. Propane smokers produce results more like wood smokers than electric smokers.
If you’re looking for that familiar flavor, a propane grill is your best option.
Temperature Range
While both propane smokers and electric smokers give you enough heat to cook with. It must be said that with propane gas smokers you get a higher temperature range.
Reliability and Longevity
There is no evidence of a significant difference in the durability of a propane smoker compared to an electric one. They are usually built from similar materials. If your propane smoker is exposed to naturally harsh outdoor weather conditions, it will show signs of wear sooner than one that is kept indoors.
Although not intentional, propane smokers seem to be vulnerable to temperature fluctuations. Electric smokers are more reliable at regulating their own temperature. The only explanation for this is some sort of lag between the gas tank and the grill.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Looking at smokers from a similar perspective, there isn’t much of a difference when it comes to cleanliness. We mentioned gas lay above. This is something to consider when it comes to maintaining a propane stove.
Make sure that the inlet hose remains free of dirt. Fortunately, this is more of a preventive measure than one that requires action.
Part of maintaining your smoker is taking care of repairs when needed. In most cases, electric smokers are more expensive when it comes to repairs. This is usually due to the price of the more advanced parts they carry.
Conclusion
Another key difference between the two smokers is how they first start. Your propane smoker must have an initial run before you can use it for cooking. This process is called seasoning. It is recommended to rinse the interior before operating the smoker.
Now that we’ve covered all of these factors, which of these two options do you like? With everything you know about the two, you should be ready to make the right decision. Your new grill is here!
Writer & content creator. BBQ fanatic!
