Smokin-it vs MES

[LarryNJ]

I'm moving into a townhouse complex that bans charcoal. It's time to give up my WSM and get an electric smoker (I considered pellet, but decided against it). My current top contenders are (1) Smokin-it #2, and (2) MES 30

The SI is a lot more expensive. The analog model is $500 and the model with PID and wifi is $850. The MES is much more affordable, can be had for $200 or $330 with remote control. It looks like MES has a PID, is that right? So they are comparable to the $850 SI in that regard?

If you have experience with these models, can you share your thoughts? I'd like to know the cooking results, as well as ease of use. I imagine the SI (even the analog model) would be more stable and more usable in the winter due to superior insulation. The door seems to seal better on the SI as well, so maybe it produces better smoky flavor?

 

[dr k]

Mes comes with just an on/off controller (set to 250 it'll shut off at 250 come on at 249.)

 

[Lonzinomaker]

I have a MES 30 that I used for a number of years and finally did a mailbox mod on it for cold smoking and to use an AMAZN tray for longer smokes so I didn't have to feed the chip tray. I did alot of meat in it, but always wanted a bigger smoker. Then after doing a lot of searching, I finally bought a Smokin-It #3, plain old analog model. I really enjoy smoking things now. Highly recommend Smokin-It and see no need for digital. I don't have to cut rib racks in half to fit the #3, whole briskets fit, whole salmon, bacon slabs, etc.
Is the Smokin-It worth the premium over the MES? I would say yes. The materials and build quality of the SI is several levels above the MES. I have bought 3 MES in the last 10 years but don't think I will have to ever buy another Smokin-It.