it seems so small

Small is good. Just need to keep in mind times and temps. That has been my experience after reading many of the posts from the folks with bigger units. I've found that the smaller unit produces a great product, it just might do so in less time since you're working with less "mass"...
My two cents...

Yes small and compact.

BUT, for home use, it keeps energy costs down and unless you are smoking for a large party, this smoker holds 25LB plus and should be plenty.

For ribs I ordered the three rack optional setup that allows me to smoke a minimum of three racks at a time.

A large smoker is a waste of energy unless you need to smoke in volume.

Well, put 4 butts in there, 7.5 lbs each, cooked down about 15 lbs of meat and at 1/4 lb per sandwich, that's 60.

We always advise asking us for recommendations, based on the amount of what you're wanting to cook. You'll be able to cook plenty, you just may have to cook some in advance, say big cuts like briskets/butts and hold those while you finish smaller stuff; ribs or chicken.

I've yet to max out my Elite, and I've had parties of 15-16 people. I'll be having some 40+ over in August and am planning on smoking in shifts like Smokin suggests.

Briskets or butts early and hold. Salmon later since it doesn't take long to smoke. Poor man's surf and turf. You can always do something like beer can chicken on the grill also to add to the feast.

Ok, thanks everyone. I threw the brisket in Sat night after work, took it out on Sunday morning. Now i am working on a batch of jerky. I am having fun and feeling good.

I thought my 08 was small. Then I filled it 2 cooks and man my wallet hurt. It cooks more than I can afford. Nobody has smoked meat that comes close to mine. Mine is moist, done and just the right smoke flavor. Avoid putting in more than 2 ozs of solid wood. 2 Butts, 3ozs wood. 4.5 racks ribs, 2ozs wood.
I get accused of using too much BBQ sauce. I smoke my ribs, BB backs, 1.5 hrs uncovered with rub, then I put them on foil add just enough BBQ sauce to cover and wrap the foil. 3.5 more hrs at 200-225.
I got scalded when one foil opened and spilled down my chest. That was from 1 half rack. It felt like hot cheese, wet down my whole shirt. It was my birthday and I was not gonna drop those ribs.
Got cheers and pats on the back from my 3 buds in the garage that saw it happen.