New 2009 Model choice

Not an answer to your questions but Cookshack does have a trade-up policy that you could use if you find the Smokette is not big enough for you. Talk with sales at CS and they can give you more information about the policy.

I too find the CS web site a bit confusing in truly understanding the various options of the current CS model lineup. After studying each web page I was still left with questions and ended up calling Karen at CS for clarification. Don’t hesitate to call the CS 800 number if you have questions. Inconsistencies for instance include: the Smokette Essentials is pictured in stainless steel exterior but is only available in black powder coat exterior. The Smokette Elite construction description indicates availability in black or stainless exterior; however the Elite series only come with stainless exterior.
A better description of the electronic controllers explaining the functions and limitations for each model would be a nice addition to each web page. Simply stating that the Elite series includes a meat temperature probes leaves several questions as to how this really works.
The Essentials series require manual time and meat temperature monitoring; that means you’ll have to have a separate timer and meat temperature probe. The Elite series does have the addition of the meat temperature probe but this does not include the hold function; as I understand it when the meat come to temp the heating element is cut off but the controller continues to monitor the temps.
Bottom-line is if you want timed cooking, meat temperature monitoring and the hold function the AmeriQue is your only option.
I created an Excel comparison matrix and have attached a JPEG here. Unfortunately we cannot attach an Excel file.
Corrections are welcome.
Hope this helps.

DB

I have been using a propane smoker for years with much success. It is not that safe around children (which I now have) and requires a lot of tending to it.

I looked all over the net for all kinds of smokers and landed here. I am so excited to have found such an awesome product and Built in the United States of America. Imagine that!!!


I am not so concerned with the hold feature. I am just trying to make the best long term purchase. As far as a meat probe I could buy a great wireless one for much less than the elite. There is the black vs the stainless. I Think they would both last equally.

I just thought I would post this to get as much feedback as possible to make the right decision.
I have a habit of not "reinventing the wheel." I always like to read reviews and opinions of others. Hands-on, always beats the written word.

quote:

Originally posted by redoakNC:
I would like a built-in meat probe. Wish it was an option on the essential. As you know, a reliable wired digital probe is $20 maybe.

Keep in mind, their probes are NOT the same as those cheap wireless ones (you know, the ones in here that frequently seem to go bad).

For me, I don't use the feature on my smokers and I HAVE the probe, for me, I just like to determine when it's done, not the smoker

Thanks for the feedback! I have passed it on to our salespeople, and to "the boss". We take your opinions seriously! Any time you have a question, just pick up the phone and call our 800 number. We are here to help you have a great barbecue experience and we would love to talk with you.

I am working on getting the website updated so that the information is clearer.

Thanks for the great feedback. I went with the Smokette SM025 elite. I think the extra for the stainless and the commercial grade meat probe will be worth it. Who am I, to mess with 45 years of Smoker evolution. I can't wait!

hi Larry,

how do you like the 025 so far?

i too am wondering if i should go for the 020 or 025.

i was thinking just get the 020 and buy a good meat probe with the extra $150 the 025 would cost. on the other hand the 025 has one built in so im not sure what to go with yet.

I love this thing thing and am glad I got the 025. the probe works great. I have not had a lot of time to use it, but the time I have have been great. Having the stainless steel, looks really good too. I have not used the other type of probes so I can't really compare them to this. I have read a lot of reviews on them and many people say they tend to fail after a while. Since this probe is a commercial grade I think it will last. Between moving and family stuff, I have been dreaming of using it everyday. You will love it. I even got the cover for it, which I recommend if your having it exposed to the elements. Really heavy duty.

Hey I just bought smo20 a month ago with mavrick remote and love it,just pulled 25 lbs of butt 8:15 this morning.why spend extra $200 use that $$$ for rubs,sauces and wood ?????