Best Electric Smoker Heating Element With Thermostat: Top 5 Picks Compared

If your electric smoker has stopped reaching temperature, or you want to convert a charcoal, propane, or pellet smoker into an electric one, a replacement heating element with a built-in thermostat controller can get you back to cooking. The right part depends on your smoker’s brand, the size of the rectangular opening in its side, and how much power and temperature range you need. This guide compares five popular options so you can narrow your choice quickly. Each one is covered in detail, with pros, cons, and a clear verdict to help you decide which element fits your setup.

Before you buy, it helps to know that not every element fits every smoker. Most of the products below require a rectangular side opening, and several list specific Masterbuilt model numbers. Measure your opening and check your model number before you order, and you will avoid most fit problems.

Quick Comparison Table

Our Picks: Best Electric Smoker Heating Element With Thermostat reviews

COMVIEE 1500W Element for Masterbuilt Smokers: Best for Masterbuilt Owners

This 1500-watt element is built for owners who want a replacement that closely matches the original part in a Masterbuilt electric smoker. It runs on 110 volts and comes with an adjustable thermostat cord, so you can set and hold a target temperature rather than watching the smoke for swings. The listing gives an adjustable range of 50°F to 500°F, although the upper limit depends on the size of your smoker and grill, so you should treat the top end as a best-case figure rather than a guarantee.

The most distinctive feature is the “ear” shape of the element. The curved body and surrounding wire layout are meant to direct heat around the wood chip tray, which helps chips burn more completely and produce a steadier smoke. The element is made from stainless steel, which suits the heat cycling that a smoker goes through over many cooking sessions. The controller uses flexible rubber-coated cable and includes a heating indicator light, which makes it easy to see at a glance whether the element is drawing power.

In everyday use, this element is most helpful when it is installed as a direct swap. Many owners appreciate that the listing names a long set of Masterbuilt model numbers, which takes much of the guesswork out of ordering. The rectangular opening size is listed at 2.64 by 0.98 inches, so you should confirm that your smoker’s opening matches before you buy. Compared with the universal options in this list, this model is less flexible for other brands but is a more natural fit if your smoker is already a Masterbuilt.

Its main limitation is that the advertised 500°F ceiling is unlikely to be a practical cooking target for most smoking, which tends to happen at much lower temperatures. The stated range is more useful as a sign of the element’s capability than as a daily setting. If you need to run at higher power for faster heat-up, the 1650-watt options below may suit you better.

Pros:

• Ear-shaped design directs heat around the wood chips for a more even smoke
• Stainless steel construction suits repeated heating cycles
• Long list of listed Masterbuilt model numbers simplifies compatibility checks
• Indicator light and adjustable thermostat cord make temperature management straightforward

Cons:

• Upper temperature limit varies with smoker size, so the 500°F figure is not a reliable everyday setting
• Fit depends on a specific rectangular opening, which can require measuring before you order

Verdict: If you own a Masterbuilt smoker that appears on the listed model list, this is one of the safest choices in this roundup. It is a sensible, direct replacement with a thermostat and a clear fit profile. Buy it if your model number matches and your side opening measures close to the listed dimensions.

COMVIEE Upgrade 1650W Universal Kit: Best for Faster Heat-Up Across Brands

This kit is designed as a universal upgrade rather than a brand-specific part. It is rated at 1650 watts on a 120-volt supply with a 15-amp controller, and the listing positions it as a replacement for original 1200-watt or 1500-watt elements. The extra wattage is meant to bring the smoker up to temperature faster and hold a higher setpoint, which is useful in cold weather or in larger cabinets. The adjustable range is 50°F to 350°F, which is enough for low-and-slow smoking but not for high-heat cooking.

The universal positioning is the main reason to consider this kit. The listing names several brands, including Masterbuilt, Char-Broil, Smoke Hollow, Cuisinart, Brinkmann, and Dyna-Glo, so it can work with a range of cabinet smokers and grills. Some users report that the higher wattage makes a noticeable difference during cold starts, and the element can also serve as a secondary heat source in a charcoal or pellet smoker. Because the thermostat holds a set temperature, it removes much of the constant fire tending that charcoal setups demand.

The build uses stainless steel for the element and heavy-gauge soft rubber cable for the controller, along with a heating indicator light. These details suggest a practical, no-frills design aimed at functional performance. The trade-off is that universal fit requires more homework on your part. The listing refers to a rectangular opening without giving exact dimensions, so you must measure carefully and may need to enlarge the opening to accept the connector.

Compared with the Masterbuilt-specific 1500-watt option, this kit trades some guaranteed fit for more power and broader brand coverage. If your smoker is not a Masterbuilt, or if you have had trouble with slow heat-up in cold weather, this is the more useful choice. Its lower 350°F ceiling makes it less suited to high-temperature cooking, but that is rarely a limitation for traditional smoking.

Pros:

• 1650-watt output can speed heat-up and help maintain temperature in cold conditions
• Universal positioning covers many popular cabinet smoker and grill brands
• Built-in thermostat controller reduces the need to tend a charcoal fire
• Stainless steel element and heavy-gauge cable suit regular outdoor use

Cons:

• Opening dimensions are not clearly stated, so careful measuring is necessary before installation
• Maximum temperature of 350°F limits high-heat cooking

Verdict: This is the best pick in the roundup for owners of non-Masterbuilt smokers who want more power and a thermostat. It is especially useful for cold-weather smoking or as a supplemental heat source. Buy it if you can measure your opening accurately and do not need temperatures above 350°F.

Teonkeeys 1650W Thermostat Element: Best for Converting Charcoal and Pellet Smokers

This 1650-watt element is positioned as a universal upgrade for converting a charcoal, propane, or pellet smoker into an electric one. The listing describes a temperature range of 150°F to 350°F, with a 15-amp adjustable thermostat controller that holds a set point automatically. The listing suggests that around 225°F is a good target for low-and-slow cooking, which aligns with typical smoking practice. The narrower 150°F floor makes it less suitable for very low-temperature cold smoking, but it covers the range most traditional smoking uses.

The strongest argument for this element is its conversion focus. If you already own a charcoal smoker that struggles to hold temperature for hours, adding a thermostat-controlled element can turn it into a more predictable machine. Many owners who go this route appreciate that they no longer need to add fuel every twenty minutes or so. The listing also notes that the element can be used with a range of brands, though it recommends measuring your smoker’s dimensions to confirm compatibility.

Installation is where this product demands the most attention. The listing warns that if the plug port is larger than your existing one, you will need to enlarge the rectangular opening in the side of the smoker base. Some owners may find this a simple five-minute job with basic hand tools, but it does involve altering your smoker, so it is wise to plan the modification carefully. Electrical connections should be handled with care, and you should make sure your outlet and cord setup can safely handle the controller’s rated load.

At the time of research, this listing was showing as unavailable, so stock may be limited. If you find it in stock and you own a charcoal or pellet smoker that you want to electrify, it is a strong candidate. If you need a plug-and-play fit for a specific brand of electric smoker, the other options above are simpler to install.

Pros:

• Thermostat controller holds a set temperature with minimal intervention
• 1650-watt output suits faster heating and cold-weather use
• Positioned for converting charcoal, propane, and pellet smokers
• Listing offers clear guidance on a typical smoking target temperature

Cons:

• Enlarging the side opening may be necessary, which adds installation work
• Listing shows as currently unavailable, and the 150°F minimum limits very low-temperature smoking

Verdict: This element is the most useful choice for turning a non-electric smoker into a thermostat-controlled cooker. It offers solid power and a sensible temperature range for traditional smoking. Buy it if you are comfortable with a modest modification and can confirm that it is in stock.

GDHSWJ 1500W Ear-Shaped Element: Best Direct Replacement for Standard 1500W Setups

This element takes a similar approach to the first COMVIEE model, with the same ear-shaped curved body and a 1500-watt, 110-volt rating. The listing gives an adjustable temperature range of 50°F to 450°F and a maximum current of 15 amps, with the note that actual current depends on smoker size and how much food you are cooking. That caveat is useful, since the load on any heating element changes with conditions. The thermostat cord is described as using flexible rubber cable, and the controller is designed for precise adjustments during operation.

Its design goal is clear: improve combustion of wood chips by arranging the coils around them. The stainless steel body is meant to resist corrosion and wear, which matters in a smoker that is exposed to moisture and smoke. The listing repeats the same rectangular opening measurement of 2.64 by 0.98 inches and the same long list of Masterbuilt model numbers, so anyone choosing between these two should compare the model lists directly.

For a straightforward swap, this is a practical choice. Owners who want to replace a worn-out element with a similar part will find the layout familiar and the installation predictable. The main drawback is that the listing is somewhat less detailed about build specifics than some competitors, and it leans heavily on compatibility claims that you must verify yourself. It also provides the same Masterbuilt-focused fit as the first model, so it does not offer the broader brand coverage of the universal kit.

If you are weighing this against the COMVIEE 1500-watt model, the decision will often come down to the seller’s product details and the fit confirmation you can get from your own smoker. Both target the same niche, so the choice is less about performance and more about which listing gives you the clearer fit information for your unit.

Pros:

• Ear-shaped coil layout is designed to improve wood chip combustion
• Adjustable range of 50°F to 450°F covers most smoking and grilling needs
• Stainless steel construction is suited to a humid outdoor environment
• Simple direct-replacement profile for compatible Masterbuilt setups

Cons:

• Brand coverage is narrower than the universal options in this roundup
• Build details are less specific, so you must rely on your own measurements and model check

Verdict: This is a solid, no-nonsense replacement for owners of Masterbuilt-style 1500-watt smokers. It delivers a useful temperature range and a familiar design. Buy it if your model number is on the list and you want a direct swap without modifications.

Stanbroil 1500W Element with Adjustable Mounting Bracket: Best for Flexible Installation

This 1500-watt, 110-volt element is designed as a replacement for a range of electric smokers and grills. Its standout hardware features are an adjustable mounting bracket and element support feet, which the listing says help the unit fit different installations. The matching controller adjusts temperature from about 50°F to 450°F and includes a heating indicator light. The listing also states that the element heats the smoker in a shorter time than many original parts, though it does not quantify that difference.

The mounting hardware is the practical highlight. Many replacement elements assume a perfect fit, but in real use, the position of the mounting flange and the support of the element body can affect how securely it sits. Adjustable brackets and support feet give you a bit of room to align the element with your opening, which can save frustration if your smoker’s dimensions are slightly off from the listing. The listing says the element uses premium materials designed to last, though it does not detail the exact alloy.

Compatibility is the area where this listing is least direct. Instead of giving a full model list in the description, it refers you to a compatibility image on the product page. That is a reasonable approach, but it means you should study that image carefully before purchasing. Confirm the rectangular opening size and the mounting arrangement against your own smoker, and do not assume a fit based on the brand name alone.

For buyers who value adjustable mounting and a familiar 1500-watt output, this is a dependable option. It suits people who are comfortable checking fit details and want a little more flexibility during installation. It is less ideal for those who want a clearly documented model list or the higher wattage of the 1650-watt kits.

Pros:

• Adjustable mounting bracket and support feet add installation flexibility
• Adjustable range of about 50°F to 450°F suits most smoking tasks
• Heating indicator light makes operation easy to monitor
• Designed as a replacement for a wide range of electric smokers and grills

Cons:

• Fit details rely on a compatibility image, so careful checking is required before ordering

Verdict: This element is a good choice for owners who want flexible mounting and a broad replacement profile at 1500 watts. It handles the core job of a smoker heating element and gives you room to adjust the fit. Buy it if you can verify compatibility from the product images and want an adjustable installation.

How to Choose the Right Electric Smoker Heating Element With Thermostat

Start With Your Smoker’s Brand and Model

The first step is to identify exactly what you own. Masterbuilt-compatible elements are the easiest to buy when your model number appears on a published compatibility list, because you can match the part to your unit with confidence. If your smoker is a charcoal, propane, or pellet model you are converting, or a brand not named in a listing, you will need to rely on measurements rather than model numbers. Writing down your smoker’s brand and model before you shop will make every other decision easier.

Check the Rectangular Opening Before You Buy

Nearly every element in this roundup requires a rectangular opening in the side of the smoker. Measure the width and height of that opening, and compare it to the listing dimensions. Some products list exact size, such as 2.64 by 0.98 inches, while others only say “rectangular opening” without a measurement. When the size is not stated, measure the opening and the element’s mounting flange as carefully as possible. A slightly undersized opening can often be enlarged with hand tools, but an oversized one may leave gaps that let heat escape and smoke leak out.

Match Wattage to Your Climate and Cooking Style

Wattage determines how quickly the element heats the cabinet and how well it recovers after you open the door. A 1500-watt element is usually adequate for everyday smoking in moderate weather. A 1650-watt element can make a noticeable difference in cold weather, in larger cabinets, or when you use the element as a supplemental heat source in a charcoal or pellet smoker. Higher wattage is not always better, though. Make sure your outlet, extension cord, and controller can safely handle the load, and avoid running heavy-duty electrical equipment on undersized wiring.

Understand the Temperature Range and Controller

The listed temperature range tells you what the controller can hold, but it is not a guarantee of what your smoker will reach. Ranges such as 50°F to 500°F look impressive on paper, yet real-world performance depends on cabinet size, outside temperature, and how well the smoker is sealed. For traditional low-and-slow smoking, you will typically work between about 225°F and 275°F, so a range that covers that zone comfortably is what matters most. A thermostat controller is valuable because it holds a setpoint automatically, but you still need to verify that the controller is rated for the element’s current draw.

Consider Build Quality and Materials

Heating elements spend much of their life in a hot, humid, smoky environment, so materials matter. Stainless steel is the common choice for the element body because it resists corrosion and wear. The controller cable should be flexible, heavy-gauge, and designed for heat exposure, since a stiff or thin cord can crack over time. Look for a clearly labeled indicator light, which helps you confirm the element is actively heating. Products that describe their materials clearly are generally easier to trust than those that offer only vague claims.

Plan for Installation and Modifications

Installation is usually straightforward for a direct replacement, but converting a charcoal or pellet smoker can require more effort. Some elements require you to enlarge the side opening to fit a larger plug port, which is a modification you should plan carefully. Use the right tools, keep the cut clean, and make sure the element is securely mounted with no exposed wiring. Adjustable brackets and support feet, like those on the Stanbroil model, can make alignment easier during this process.

Think About Safety and Everyday Use

Electric smokers should always be set up on a stable, level surface away from walls, overhangs, and combustible materials. Keep the cord clear of hot surfaces and avoid running it through puddles or wet areas. Do not leave a smoker unattended for long periods, and check the element and controller regularly for signs of wear, such as cracked insulation or discolored connectors. Good safety habits matter as much as the part you choose, and they will extend the life of your smoker.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a 1650-watt element in a smoker designed for 1500 watts?

In many cases, yes, but you should confirm that the connector, mounting flange, and controller are compatible with your smoker. Higher wattage can speed up heating, yet it also increases the electrical load. Make sure your outlet and cord are rated to handle the draw, and check whether your smoker’s internal wiring and housing are suited to the higher output.

Do I need to measure the rectangular opening before buying?

Yes, measuring is one of the most important steps. Most of these elements require a rectangular side opening, and a mismatch in size can lead to a poor fit or a return. Measure the opening and compare it to the listing dimensions, especially when the product does not state an exact size.

Is a thermostat-controlled element better than a charcoal fire for smoking?

For many cooks, a thermostat controller offers more consistent temperature control than managing a charcoal fire by hand. It reduces the need for frequent fuel adjustments and helps hold a steady setpoint over long cooks. Charcoal still delivers its own flavor and a traditional cooking experience, so the best choice depends on what you value most.

Can I convert a charcoal smoker into an electric one with these elements?

Some of the universal elements in this roundup are designed for conversion projects, such as the 1650-watt Teonkeeys model. Conversion usually requires cutting an opening, mounting the element, and wiring the controller safely. If you are not comfortable with electrical work or cutting metal, consider hiring a professional or choosing a smoker that is already electric.

Why does the maximum temperature listed vary between products?

Temperature ranges depend on how each controller and element are designed, as well as the size of the smoker and the conditions in which it is used. Listed maximums are often best-case figures. Focus on the range that covers your typical cooking temperatures, which for most smoking is well below the top of the listed scale.

What should I check if my new element does not heat up?

Start by confirming that the element is plugged in securely and that the outlet is working. Check that the controller is set to a temperature above the current cabinet reading and that the indicator light is on. Inspect the connections for looseness or damage. If the problem continues, check the fuse or circuit breaker and confirm that the element and controller are correctly matched to your smoker.

Is a Masterbuilt-compatible element always the safest choice?

It is often the simplest choice for Masterbuilt owners because the model list makes compatibility easier to verify. However, “safest” depends on correct installation, proper electrical setup, and regular inspection. A well-installed, properly sized element from any brand is safe when used as intended, while a poorly fitted part can create problems regardless of brand.

Final Recommendation

For most Masterbuilt owners, the COMVIEE 1500W element is the most straightforward choice, thanks to its ear-shaped design, stainless steel build, and clearly listed model compatibility. If you own a non-Masterbuilt cabinet smoker, or you want more power for cold-weather cooking, the COMVIEE 1650W universal kit offers broader coverage and faster heat-up. For converting a charcoal or pellet smoker, the Teonkeeys 1650W element is the most relevant option, provided it is in stock and you are comfortable with a modest modification. The GDHSWJ and Stanbroil 1500W elements are solid alternatives for direct replacement and flexible mounting, so the right pick depends on your smoker’s model, your opening size, and how much installation flexibility you need. Measure first, confirm compatibility, and choose the element that matches your smoker and your cooking style.