which one?

[sputnam]

I need an electric smoker for about $200. Evidently there are a thousand models (well, hundreds in that price range). I was recommended an MES gen 2 but that was $275....was hoping to get closer to $200...and not have a POS. Any other suggestions?

 

[bmaddox]

You should be able to find a gen1 MES (controller on rear part of the top panel) online for $200 or less without the window. That would be your best bet. 

 

[walta]

This MES gen 1 is in your budget.

Walta

 

[mummel]

Got my MES 40 BT for $285 all in at Cabelas. 

 

[daricksta]

I also agree with buying the MES 30 Gen 1. It's the best electric smoker you can buy for under $200. I've had mine for over three years and it's working great. I smoke with wood pellets instead of wood chips.

 

[sm0kin]

MES Gen 1, Just bought one today for my brother Model 20070910 from Walmart.com for $229 with tax and 4 year replacement warranty. I have 2 myself :)

 

[chef jimmyj]

I don't know of anyone that would recomment a Gen 2...The Gen1 or the new BT (Gen1 with updated electronics) are the units with the least problems...JJ

 

[daricksta]

 
MES Gen 1, Just bought one today for my brother Model 20070910 from Walmart.com for $229 with tax and 4 year replacement warranty. I have 2 myself :)

How much did that warranty cost? $229 is very high for this smoker. I paid $189 with free shipping 3.5 years ago and that price was high at that time. You can still find this smoker on Amazon for between $139-189.

 

[sm0kin]

189 for smoker, 24 for 4 year replacement warranty, plus tax. 

$222.64 total

I paid less for mine, but they are still popular and seem to fluctuate in price. If Walmart sells it for less, I get a refund on difference.

 

[daricksta]

 
189 for smoker, 24 for 4 year replacement warranty, plus tax. 

$222.64 total

I paid less for mine, but they are still popular and seem to fluctuate in price. If Walmart sells it for less, I get a refund on difference.

Thanks for the clarification. I'm hoping that if I continue to take moderately good care of my MES 30 it'll last past next year. I think of all the guys who regularly post here @Bearcarver and @Chef JimmyJ know the most about the longevity of the MES Gen 1 smokers.