Masterbuilt Slow Smoker Review Discover the Best Smoking Accessory for Cheese and Jerky

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Masterbuilt Slow Smoker (Model MB20100112) immediately caught my eye with its sleek yet rugged black alloy steel construction. It’s compact, with dimensions of 8.1”D x 9.8”W x 16.8”H, making it easy to integrate into my outdoor setup without feeling bulky or out of place. The cuboid form factor and minimalist design give it a modern vibe, while the steel build ensures durability. Weighing just 9.95 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight, which made moving it around my backyard hassle-free.

The removable ash tray is a thoughtful addition. It makes cleanup a breeze, which, let’s face it, is a relief when dealing with smoking equipment. I found the overall build to be sturdy, and the parts fit together seamlessly without any wobbling or gaps. I can confidently say it felt like a high-quality product from the moment I unboxed it.

Ease of Use

Using the electric-powered smoker attachment was surprisingly straightforward. With the push of a button, it automatically heats the wood chips, removing any guesswork. I tested it with both cold smoking and hot smoking, and it delivered consistent results every time. The continuous wood feed system is a game-changer, providing up to 6 hours of uninterrupted smoke. I didn’t have to hover over it or constantly reload the wood chips, which allowed me to enjoy my time and focus on other tasks.

I appreciated how simple it was to attach the unit to my existing Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker. It’s compatible with all of them, so there’s no need to worry about compatibility. Even if you’re not a seasoned smoker enthusiast, the learning curve here is minimal, making it a good option for beginners.

Performance and Smoke Quality

The performance of this accessory exceeded my expectations. I used it to smoke cheese, fish, bacon, and even jerky, and the results were impressive across the board. The continuous smoke output ensured that the flavors penetrated deeply into the food, producing that rich, smoky taste that’s hard to replicate.

I also tested it at temperatures of up to 275°F, and it held up beautifully. The cold smoking capability is where this product truly shines, especially for delicate items like cheese and fish. I didn’t experience any uneven smoking or temperature spikes, which can ruin food. The wood chips burned efficiently without creating excess ash, and the removable tray made disposal effortless.

One thing I noticed was how well the steel inner material retained heat and channeled the smoke. It resulted in a steady, consistent smoking process without any interruptions.

Key Benefits

• Durable alloy steel construction ensures longevity.
• Continuous wood feed system provides up to 6 hours of smoke.
• Removable ash tray simplifies cleanup.
• Compatible with all Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smokers.
• Cold smoking capability is perfect for cheese and fish.

Areas for Improvement

That said, no product is without its flaws. Here are a few things that stood out:

• The corded electric power source limits portability. You’ll need to have a power outlet nearby, which isn’t always convenient for outdoor setups.
• While it’s compact, the cuboid design might not fit seamlessly with other non-Masterbuilt smoker models.
• The continuous smoke feature works well, but it does require a decent amount of wood chips, which could be a consideration for those who regularly smoke larger quantities.

Competing Products

Comparing this to other options like the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker or the Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker, I found some interesting contrasts. The Weber offers superior portability, thanks to its charcoal-powered system, but it lacks the convenience of the push-button automation that the Masterbuilt provides.

Meanwhile, the Char-Broil stands out with its larger capacity, making it better for big gatherings. However, it doesn’t deliver the same level of precision in cold smoking as the Masterbuilt. For someone focused on smoking delicate foods like cheese and fish, the Masterbuilt Slow Smoker is undoubtedly a better choice.

Where it truly excels is in its user-friendly design and compatibility with existing Masterbuilt smokers. Other brands might require a bit more manual effort, whereas this product leans heavily on convenience.

Bang for the Buck

Considering its features and performance, this smoker attachment offers excellent value for money. The durability, ease of use, and versatility justify its price point. While it might not be the most budget-friendly option out there, the convenience and quality it brings to the table make it worth the investment.

I’ve tried cheaper alternatives in the past, but none of them offered the same reliable smoke output or easy maintenance. You’re paying for a product that genuinely enhances the smoking experience, especially if you’re already a fan of Masterbuilt’s range.

If you’re looking for a smoker attachment that delivers consistent results, is easy to maintain, and works seamlessly with your existing setup, this is a solid option to consider.

Additional information