Best Smokers for Turkey in 2025: Top 6 Picks

Smoking a whole turkey is one of the best ways to infuse deep, smoky flavor while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a summer cookout, or just a weekend BBQ, the right smoker can make all the difference. In this 2025 update, we’ve rounded up the 6 best smokers for turkey, covering electric, pellet, charcoal, and gas options.

Let’s dive into the top-rated models and help you choose the best smoker for your next turkey feast.

Top 6 Best Smokers for Turkey in 2025

Comparison Table: Best Smokers for Turkey (2025)

1. Traeger Pro 780 – Best Smart Pellet Smoker for Turkey

• Type: Pellet

• Cooking Space: 780 sq. in.

• Fuel: Wood pellets

• Tech Features: WiFIRE smart controller, app connectivity

Why It’s Great:
Traeger’s Pro 780 offers precision temperature control with its D2 Direct Drive system and smart WiFIRE technology. With enough space to smoke a full 25-lb turkey, this smoker ensures consistent heat, clean smoke, and great flavor.

Pros:

• Excellent heat control for long cooks

• App-connected (control remotely via WiFi)

• Rich, wood-fired flavor

Cons:

• Requires pellet refills on longer cooks

• Higher upfront cost

Best For: Tech-savvy grillers who love set-it-and-forget-it precision.

Buyer Reviews:

Helpful reviews:

“I recently purchased the Traeger 780 pro smoker and it has exceeded my expectations. This smoker has allowed me to create delicious meals, from ribs to filet mignon. The Wi-Fi feature and temperature probe ensure perfect cooking every time. Assembly was easy and following recipes is a breeze. Highly recommend this smoker for its capacity and exceptional performance.”- Brad – Buyer on Amazon ( View full reviews)

Reasuring review

“I switched from a vertical propane smoker to a Traeger pellet smoker and couldn’t be happier. The ease of use, mobile app, and consistent results make it a great choice. While the price is somewhat high and there are a few minor drawbacks, the WiFire feature alone is worth it. Highly recommended for those who enjoy smoking and grilling with minimal effort.” T Philip – Buyer on Amazon ( View full reviews)

After researching and considering customer reviews, we highly appreciate this smoker for its high-quality construction and advanced features.

2. Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker – Best for Beginners

• Type: Electric

• Cooking Space: 730 sq. in.

• Fuel: Wood chips + electricity

• Tech Features: Digital control panel

Why It’s Great:
Masterbuilt’s electric smoker is an ideal entry-level option. It delivers consistent results without the need to babysit your turkey. Just load your wood chips and set the digital timer.

Pros:

• Easy to use, even for first-timers

• Excellent temperature consistency

• Affordable

Cons:

• No Wi-Fi or app control

• Smaller wood chip tray requires refilling

Best For: Beginners who want an easy, hands-off smoking experience.

3. Pit Boss 3-Series Vertical Smoker – Best Value Vertical Smoker

• Type: Electric (vertical)

• Cooking Space: 901 sq. in.

• Fuel: Wood chips + electricity

• Tech Features: Analog control

Why It’s Great:
This upright smoker from Pit Boss saves space while offering generous capacity and reliability. It’s great for smoking turkey, ribs, and brisket all at once.

Pros:

• Vertical design fits in tight patios

• Spacious interior

• Easy cleanup

Cons:

• Lacks digital display or smart features

• Manual heat adjustment

Best For: Families and grillers with limited outdoor space.

4. Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24″ – Best Gas Smoker for Turkey

• Type: Propane gas

• Cooking Space: 903 sq. in.

• Fuel: Propane + wood chips

• Tech Features: Adjustable heat dials

Why It’s Great:
For those who prefer gas-powered convenience, the Camp Chef Smoke Vault offers amazing results with less mess. It’s easy to control and spacious enough for large turkeys.

Pros:

• Easy to operate with propane

• Consistent temps over long smokes

• Excellent airflow control

Cons:

• Not app-connected

• Requires propane refills

Best For: Backyard cooks who want fast setup and smoky results.

5. Cuisinart COS-330 Electric Smoker – Best Budget Electric Smoker

• Type: Electric

• Cooking Space: 548 sq. in.

• Fuel: Wood chips + electricity

Why It’s Great:
At under $200, this electric smoker delivers solid performance for turkey and small gatherings. It’s compact, easy to assemble, and great for balconies or patios.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight

• Simple controls

• Budget-friendly

Cons:

• Limited space for extra-large turkeys

• Not ideal for extreme cold weather

Best For: Occasional smokers or small families.

6. Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker 18” – Best Charcoal Smoker for Traditional Flavor

• Type: Charcoal

• Cooking Space: 481 sq. in.

• Fuel: Charcoal + wood chunks

Why It’s Great:
This iconic smoker delivers authentic smoke flavor with a trusted design. It’s compact but mighty — perfect for those who enjoy the traditional feel of smoking over coals.

Pros:

• Unmatched smoky flavor

• Rugged, long-lasting build

• Great heat retention

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve

• Requires more hands-on effort

Best For: BBQ purists who want the real deal in flavor and feel.

🦃 Pro Tips for Smoking the Perfect Turkey

1. Brine the turkey overnight for extra moisture.

2. Cook low and slow: Aim for 225°F–250°F.

3. Use a water pan to retain moisture inside the smoker.

4. Use applewood or pecan wood chips for mild, sweet smoke flavor.

5. Don’t stuff the bird — it slows down cooking.

6. Monitor internal temp: Remove when breast hits 165°F and thighs 175°F.

7. Let it rest 30 minutes before carving for maximum juiciness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What size smoker do I need for a whole turkey?
A: Look for at least 700 sq. in. cooking space to comfortably fit a 12–20 lb turkey.

Q: What’s the best wood for smoking turkey?
A: Apple, cherry, pecan, and maple offer sweet, mild flavors ideal for turkey.

Q: Can I smoke a frozen turkey?
A: No. Always fully thaw the turkey before smoking to ensure even cooking.

Q: How long does it take to smoke a 15 lb turkey?
A: At 225°F, expect around 30–35 minutes per pound, or about 7–9 hours total.

Q: Can I use a meat thermometer?
A: Absolutely. It’s the best way to avoid undercooked or dry turkey.

Final Verdict: What’s the Best Smoker for Turkey in 2025?

The best smoker depends on your cooking style:

• Want tech control & big flavor? → Traeger Pro 780

• New to smoking? → Masterbuilt Electric Smoker

• Prefer traditional charcoal flavor? → Weber Smokey Mountain

No matter which model you choose, your smoked turkey will be the star of any table with the right prep and patience.

👉 Looking for more smoker recipes and guides? Check out HowToCook.wiki for tips on smoking brisket, ribs, pork, and more.