Review of the Masterbuilt 30 Inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker Model MB20071117
Why This Product Is Worth a Look
Electric vertical smokers appeal to users seeking consistent low-and-slow cooking without the need to manage live fires or charcoal. The Masterbuilt model offers a compact alternative that combines digital controls with wood chip smoke generation for backyard use.
Product Overview
The Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker with Side Wood Chip Loader, Chrome Racks and 710 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20071117 is a corded electric vertical smoker designed for smoking meats at temperatures up to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. It targets residential users who want automated temperature and timer settings along with wood smoke flavor. The unit includes four chrome-coated racks, a water bowl, a drip pan, a rear grease tray, and a side wood chip loader. Primary use centers on low-and-slow preparation of items such as pork butts, ribs, chickens, and turkeys.
Design, Build, and Everyday Feel
The cabinet measures approximately 19.8 inches deep by 20.9 inches wide by 33.3 inches high and weighs 45.9 pounds. The exterior uses black painted steel with plastic trim and an insulated double-wall construction. Interior walls are aluminum. The top-mounted digital control panel sits at eye level. The side wood chip loader uses a rotating tube mechanism. Adjustable rear legs provide leveling on flat surfaces, though the absence of wheels requires manual lifting for relocation. The door includes an adjustable latch and gaskets for sealing.
Key Features
Digital controls allow setting of target temperature and a timer up to 24 hours with automatic shut-off. This setup operates the 650-watt heating element at the base and maintains temperatures between 100 and 275 degrees Fahrenheit. The side wood chip loader permits addition of chips without opening the main door, which helps retain heat and moisture, though the small tray capacity requires refills every 45 to 60 minutes. The removable water bowl sits above the heating element to introduce moisture and collect drippings. Four chrome-coated racks provide 710 square inches of cooking area distributed across levels with about five inches of vertical clearance between them. The removable rear grease tray and internal drip pan collect residue for easier post-cook cleaning.
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What It May Be Like to Use
Based on the available product information, initial assembly requires minimal parts and a Phillips screwdriver, typically completed in about 15 minutes. A high-temperature seasoning cycle is recommended before first food use to remove manufacturing residues. In typical daily use the side loader supports wood chip addition during operation while the digital panel maintains set temperatures. Separate thermometer probes can be routed through the top vent for monitoring without opening the door. Temperature distribution shows variation between rack levels, with lower areas near the element running warmer.
What Works Well
The insulated cabinet supports steady heat retention across the operating range. The side wood chip loader reduces heat loss during refills compared with door opening. Removable components simplify cleaning after use. The vertical layout occupies limited floor space while accommodating multiple smaller cuts or several whole birds. Digital operation reduces the need for constant vent or fire adjustments.
Things to Consider
Rack width of approximately 15 inches limits flat placement of full-length briskets or uncut rib racks. Temperature gradients between top and bottom racks can reach 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Wood chip capacity remains small, leading to frequent refills during extended cooks. Electric heating does not produce the same combustion smoke ring as wood or charcoal units. Electronic components may require protection from moisture and weather exposure to maintain function over time.
Who Is This Product For?
This smoker suits beginners and users who prefer set-and-forget temperature management for occasional low-and-slow cooks without live fire handling. It fits households with limited patio space who prepare family-sized batches of smoked meats. It may not suit those needing wide flat racks for large uncut cuts, high-temperature searing, or consistent deep smoke rings.
Helpful Tips Before You Buy
Verify available outdoor space matches the stated dimensions and weight before placement. Plan to use an independent digital probe thermometer to confirm actual grate temperatures. Consider a fitted cover or indoor storage when the unit is not in use to protect the control panel. Cut larger rib racks in half or position them vertically if needed to fit the rack width. Perform the initial seasoning burn-in with wood chips before cooking any food.
Common Questions
How long does a typical wood chip load last? The tray usually requires refilling every 45 to 60 minutes during active smoking.
Can the unit handle overnight cooks? The 24-hour timer and automatic shut-off allow extended operation, though wood chip refills may still be needed.
Is assembly required? Most components arrive pre-assembled, with remaining parts attached using a Phillips screwdriver in roughly 15 minutes.
Does it produce a smoke ring? Electric heating provides smoke flavor but typically does not create the dark combustion ring seen with charcoal or wood fires.
What maintenance is needed? Removable parts should be cleaned after cooling, and the unit should be kept dry to protect electronics.
Final Thoughts
The Masterbuilt MB20071117 provides reliable digital temperature control and convenient wood chip addition within a compact insulated cabinet. Strengths include straightforward operation, removable cleaning components, and sufficient capacity for many family meals. Limitations center on rack dimensions, temperature variation across levels, small chip capacity, and the need to shield electronics from moisture. It aligns best with users seeking electric low-and-slow smoking without fire management, while those requiring wider racks or stronger smoke profiles may prefer other designs.
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