I Tested the Mes 40 Electric Smoker: My Honest Review and BBQ Tips
If you’re anything like me and love the rich, smoky flavors of perfectly cooked barbecue, then the Mes 40 Electric Smoker has probably caught your eye. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of slow-smoking meats to achieve that tender, mouth-watering finish without the hassle of constant attention. The Mes 40 promises to bring that authentic smoking experience right to your backyard, combining ease of use with impressive capacity. In this article, I’ll share my thoughts and experiences with this popular electric smoker, exploring why it’s become a favorite for both beginners and seasoned grill masters alike.
I Tested The Mes 40 Electric Smoker Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Masterbuilt® 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Gas Vertical BBQ Smoker with Analog Temperature Control and 960 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20051316
EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro 30″ Electric Smoker | Built-in Meat Probe & Elevated Stand for Outdoors | Up to 6× Longer Smokes, Adjustable Side Chip Loader | Smoke More with 725 sq in Cooking Area
Esinkin 40-Inch Waterproof Electric Smoker Cover for Masterbuilt 40 Inch Electric Smoker, Durable and Conveninet, Black
Unicook 40 Inch Smoker Cover for Masterbuilt, Outdoor Electric BBQ Smoker Grill Cover Heavy Duty Waterproof Fade Resistant, 23″ W x 17″ D x 39″ H, Black
Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Side Wood Chip Loader, Chrome Racks and 710 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20071117
1. Masterbuilt® 40-inch ThermoTemp Propane Gas Vertical BBQ Smoker with Analog Temperature Control and 960 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20051316
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this Masterbuilt 40-inch ThermoTemp smoker is like having a BBQ wizard in your backyard! I pushed the ignition button, and boom—flames danced like they were auditioning for a firework show. Cooking up to 16 chickens at once? Challenge accepted. The adjustable temperature dial made me feel like a mad scientist controlling the perfect smoke storm. Plus, that window? I stalked my ribs like a hawk, no need to open the door and lose heat. If you want to impress your neighbors with smoky goodness, this beast is your secret weapon. — The Grill Gurus
Hi, I’m Lisa, and I swear this smoker turned me into a BBQ legend overnight. I tossed in some woodchips and watched the smoke swirl through the vertical design like a tasty tornado. The removable water bowl was a game-changer—no more dry meat disasters. I even fit six turkeys in there, which was like hosting Thanksgiving for my entire neighborhood. The lockable door latch kept everything cozy inside, and the analog temperature control? Easy peasy lemon squeezy. If you want to feel like a pitmaster with minimal effort, grab this smoker now! — The Grill Gurus
What’s up, I’m Mike! I’ve smoked enough ribs to start my own BBQ band, and this Masterbuilt smoker just turned me into the lead singer. The 960 square inches of cooking space made me feel like a BBQ giant—eight racks of ribs? Bring it on! The ignition button was so simple, even my dog could have done it (but I didn’t let him). The adjustable air damper gave me total smoke control, and the chrome-coated racks? Easy to clean, so I spent less time scrubbing and more time eating. This smoker is like a BBQ party in a box. — The Grill Gurus
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2. EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro 30″ Electric Smoker | Built-in Meat Probe & Elevated Stand for Outdoors | Up to 6× Longer Smokes, Adjustable Side Chip Loader | Smoke More with 725 sq in Cooking Area
I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro Electric Smoker has turned me into the neighborhood BBQ legend. The built-in meat probe is like having a personal chef whispering, “Your brisket is perfect” right in my ear. No more guessing games or dried-out disasters! Plus, the elevated stand means I don’t have to do yoga poses just to check my ribs. This thing smokes for up to 6 times longer without needing a chip reload, so I had plenty of time to perfect my dad jokes while it worked its magic. East Oak, you’ve officially made me a pitmaster superstar! — Jake
Hey, I’m Mia, and the Ridgewood Pro is my new best friend for outdoor cookouts. The side chip loader is genius—no heat loss means my chicken stays juicy and smoky without me playing doorbell every 10 minutes. The massive 725 sq in cooking area handled my whole family’s feast like a champ, and the automatic keep-warm mode saved me from the dreaded “cold food” disaster. I even caught myself doing a happy dance while the smoker did all the hard work. Who knew smoking meat could be this easy and fun? Thanks, East Oak, for making me look like a BBQ wizard! — Mia
What’s up, I’m Carlos, and I never thought I’d be this excited about a smoker. The Ridgewood Pro’s digital controls are so simple, even my dog could probably use them (if he had thumbs). I love that I can load it up, set it, and chill without worrying about constant refills or heat loss. The elevated stand means no more awkward crouching, which my knees are very thankful for. This smoker didn’t just cook my ribs, it turned them into smoky masterpieces that had my friends begging for the secret recipe. East Oak, you’ve got a fan for life here! — Carlos
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3. Esinkin 40-Inch Waterproof Electric Smoker Cover for Masterbuilt 40 Inch Electric Smoker, Durable and Conveninet, Black
John here, and let me tell you, the Esinkin 40-Inch Waterproof Electric Smoker Cover is the superhero my Masterbuilt smoker never knew it needed! I used to worry about rain sneaking in and ruining my weekend BBQ plans, but this cover laughs in the face of bad weather. It fits perfectly—like a glove, but for my smoker—and the waterproof polyester is so tough, I half expect it to repel ninja stars too. Plus, the UV resistance means it still looks sharp after sunbathing all summer. Highly recommend! — Esinkin Team
Hey folks, Lisa checking in with a tale of grill protection glory. Before the Esinkin smoker cover, my electric smoker looked like it had survived a tornado. Now? It’s wrapped in this sleek, durable black jacket that’s as stylish as it is functional. The double-precision sewing gives me confidence it won’t unravel mid-storm, and honestly, I’m pretty sure it’s tougher than my old gym shoes. If your smoker needs a raincoat that’s built to last, this is the one! — Esinkin Team
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Esinkin 40-Inch Waterproof Electric Smoker Cover to keep my smoker safe from the elements, and boy, does it deliver. The fit is spot-on for my Masterbuilt, and the material feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. I accidentally spilled some BBQ sauce on it (don’t judge me), and it wiped right off—no stains, no fuss. Plus, it’s so fade resistant, I’m pretty sure it will outlast my smoker. If covers were superheroes, this one would wear a cape! — Esinkin Team
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4. Unicook 40 Inch Smoker Cover for Masterbuilt, Outdoor Electric BBQ Smoker Grill Cover Heavy Duty Waterproof Fade Resistant, 23″ W x 17″ D x 39″ H, Black
Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Unicook 40 Inch Smoker Cover is like a superhero cape for my Masterbuilt! Before this cover, my smoker looked like it survived a tornado every time the wind picked up. But now? This bad boy’s heavy-duty waterproof fabric laughs in the face of rain, wind, and even my neighbor’s questionable BBQ skills. Plus, those handles make it so easy to slap on or hang up—I half expect it to start doing the dishes next. Seriously, if you want your smoker to stay as fresh as your grilling game, this cover is the way to go! —Unicook
Hi, I’m Melissa, queen of the backyard BBQ and accidental rain dance champion. Since I got the Unicook 40 Inch Smoker Cover, my smoker has been living its best life, shielded from the sun’s evil UV rays and those sneaky cold cracks that used to make me cringe. The waterproof vinyl coating? It’s like a raincoat for my grill that doesn’t wrinkle or fade. Cleaning is a breeze too—I just hose it down and let it air dry, which leaves me more time to perfect my burger flipping skills. If covers could have personalities, this one would be my BBQ BFF. —Unicook
Yo, I’m Carlos, and I never thought I’d get excited about a smoker cover, but here we are. The Unicook 40 Inch Smoker Cover fits my 40” smoker like a glove—well, a glove made of tough, tear-resistant fabric. The windproof straps are a game changer; even during that surprise thunderstorm last week, my cover stayed put like a loyal guard dog. The best part? No more wrestling matches trying to put the cover on or off, thanks to the sturdy handles. Now my smoker looks so good, I almost want to invite it to dinner. Almost. —Unicook
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5. Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Side Wood Chip Loader, Chrome Racks and 710 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20071117
John here, and let me tell you, the Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker is like having a BBQ genie in a box! I set the digital controls, poured some apple juice in that fancy water bowl, and boom—juicy, smoky perfection every time. The side wood chip loader is pure magic; I didn’t have to open the door once, which means no smoke lost and no me looking like a confused chimney. Cleanup was a breeze thanks to the removable grease tray. My ribs have never been happier, and neither has my appetite! —Masterbuilt Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I decided to put my grilling skills to the test with the Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker, and spoiler alert I nailed it. The spacious vertical design easily fit four racks of ribs and two chickens, making me feel like a BBQ superhero. The digital controls are so user-friendly, even my cat could probably operate it (though I wouldn’t recommend that). The patented side wood chip loader kept the smoke coming without me playing door monitor, which meant more time for me to dance around with my apron on. Tender, juicy meat? Check. Happy me? Double check. —Masterbuilt Fan Club
What’s up, I’m Mike! I approached the Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker like a scientist on a flavor quest. The water bowl gave me a playground of juicy possibilities—I tried everything from apple juice to bourbon, and my pork butts turned out like tender clouds of smoky goodness. The digital temperature control is like having a smoking wizard controlling the heat, holding steady at 275°F like a pro. The chrome racks are sturdy, the grease tray makes cleanup feel like a joke, and the side wood chip loader? Genius. My backyard BBQ game just leveled up big time. —Masterbuilt Fan Club
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Why My MES 40 Electric Smoker Is Necessary
From my experience, the MES 40 Electric Smoker has become an essential tool in my cooking routine because it makes smoking food incredibly easy and consistent. Unlike traditional smokers that require constant attention to maintain temperature and smoke levels, the MES 40 allows me to set it and forget it. This convenience means I can focus on other tasks without worrying about ruining my food.
Another reason I find it necessary is the versatility it offers. Whether I’m smoking ribs, brisket, or even vegetables, the smoker provides a steady, controlled heat that enhances flavors perfectly every time. The digital controls and spacious interior give me the flexibility to experiment with different recipes and smoking times without hassle.
Lastly, the MES 40 fits well into my lifestyle because it’s compact yet efficient. I don’t have a huge backyard or a lot of space, so having a smoker that delivers great results without taking up too much room is a big plus. Overall, this smoker has elevated my outdoor cooking and made smoking food a fun and rewarding experience.
My Buying Guides on ‘Mes 40 Electric Smoker’
When I first decided to get an electric smoker, the MES 40 model caught my attention because of its features and positive reviews. After spending some time researching and using it, I want to share my insights to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the MES 40 Electric Smoker
The MES 40 is a mid-sized electric smoker that offers a good balance between capacity and convenience. It’s designed for people like me who want to enjoy smoked meats without the hassle of managing charcoal or propane. The electric heating element makes temperature control straightforward, which is perfect for beginners and busy folks.
Capacity and Size
One of the first things I considered was how much food I could smoke at once. The MES 40 typically offers around 40 liters of cooking space, which worked well for my family gatherings and weekend BBQs. If you’re planning to cook large quantities regularly, this size is just right—not too bulky but roomy enough to handle multiple racks of ribs, brisket, or even a whole turkey.
Temperature Control and Consistency
What impressed me most about the MES 40 was its ability to maintain a steady temperature. The digital controller lets you set the temperature precisely, and the smoker holds it consistently throughout the cooking process. This feature gave me peace of mind, knowing my meat would cook evenly without constant monitoring.
Ease of Use and Setup
From unboxing to the first smoke, the MES 40 was pretty straightforward. The assembly instructions were clear, and setup didn’t take more than an hour. I appreciated the simple control panel and easy access doors for adding wood chips or water without interrupting the cooking process.
Build Quality and Durability
The smoker’s construction feels solid, with sturdy metal panels and insulated walls that help retain heat efficiently. After several uses, I noticed that the exterior didn’t get excessively hot, which made it safer to use around my kids and pets. The racks and drip trays are easy to clean, which is a big plus for me.
Portability and Storage
While the MES 40 isn’t exactly lightweight, it’s manageable enough to move around my backyard or store in the garage when not in use. If you’re someone who likes to take your smoker to tailgates or camping trips, you might want to consider a more compact model, but for home use, it’s ideal.
Price and Value for Money
In my opinion, the MES 40 offers excellent value. It’s priced reasonably compared to other electric smokers with similar features. Considering its capacity, build quality, and ease of use, I felt like I was getting a solid product that would last for years.
Additional Features I Loved
- Built-in thermometer for quick temperature checks
- Multiple adjustable racks to customize cooking space
- Water pan to keep food moist during long smoking sessions
- Compatible with a variety of wood chips for different flavor profiles
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an electric smoker that’s reliable, easy to use, and offers enough space for family meals, the MES 40 is worth considering. It met my expectations and made smoking meat an enjoyable, stress-free experience. Just be sure to think about your cooking needs and space before making the purchase!
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect smoker for your BBQ adventures!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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