Masterbuilt 30 Inch vs 40 Inch BBQ Smoker: My Full Hands-On Comparison

There are a few smokers I keep coming back to whenever friends ask me what they should buy for predictable, low-and-slow BBQ. The Masterbuilt 30-inch and 40-inch digital electric smokers are two of them. I’ve spent enough time cooking on both to know exactly where each model shines, where it struggles, and which type of backyard pitmaster truly benefits from the jump in size.

This breakdown reflects my own experience using both units side by side. If you’re stuck choosing between these two popular sizes, I’ll walk you through everything that actually matters once the smoker is in your backyard.

Main Difference Between Masterbuilt 30 Inch vs 40 Inch BBQ Smoker

The biggest difference between the two smokers is straightforward:
Cooking capacity.

The Masterbuilt 30-inch offers 710 square inches of space, while the 40-inch offers a significantly larger 970 square inches. Both have the same features, controls, and general build style, but that extra room in the 40-inch model makes a major difference depending on what and how much you want to smoke.

Comparison Table: Masterbuilt 30 Inch vs 40 Inch BBQ Smoker

Feature	Masterbuilt 30 Inch	Masterbuilt 40 Inch
Cooking Area	710 sq in	970 sq in
Racks	4 chrome-coated racks	4 chrome-coated racks
Power Source	Electric	Electric
Max Temperature	275°F	275°F
Wood Chip Loading	Patented side loader	Patented side loader
Material	Alloy steel	Cold-rolled steel
Window	Yes	Yes
Weight	50.3 lbs	58.3 lbs
Dimensions	22″D x 24″W x 42″H	19.9″D x 25.6″W x 41.3″H
Grease Management	Rear grease tray	Rear grease tray
Moisture Bowl	Included	Included
Check Latest Price & Deals	Buy on Amazon	Buy on Amazon

Detailed Comparative Review

1. Design & Build Quality

After using both models throughout multiple cook sessions, the design feels almost identical, which isn’t a bad thing. Masterbuilt keeps a consistent layout across its electric units, so if you’ve used one, the other feels familiar.

The 30-inch smoker has a smaller footprint and a slightly lighter build. It fits comfortably on patios, balconies, or tighter spaces. Every time I needed a compact smoker for travel or limited outdoor setups, this model made more sense.

The 40-inch smoker, on the other hand, feels noticeably roomier inside. Even though the height difference isn’t massive, the added width makes loading larger cuts—like multiple pork shoulders or an entire brisket—far easier. The cold-rolled steel exterior also feels a bit more premium.

Both come with:

• A viewing window
• Fully insulated walls
• A lockable latch
• A removable water bowl

Nothing to complain about in terms of durability or layout; the design is practical and efficient on both units.

2. Ease of Use

One of the reasons I lean toward Masterbuilt electric smokers in general is their simplicity. Both the 30-inch and 40-inch models use the same digital control board, and I had no trouble setting temperatures and cook times with the push of a button.

The side-loading wood chip system is one of my favorite features across Masterbuilt smokers. It lets me add chips without opening the main door, which means the chamber retains heat and smoke. Both models are equally convenient here.

Where I noticed a difference is in mobility:

• The 30-inch is easier to move around due to its lighter weight.
• The 40-inch can be paired with the wheels kit (sold separately), which genuinely helps because this smoker is heavy once positioned.

Overall, operating either smoker is beginner-friendly, and I had no learning curve using either one.

3. Cooking Performance

Performance-wise, both smokers maintain temperatures reliably. The insulation helps keep things stable even during colder weather. During my test sessions, I didn’t see dramatic swings in internal heat unless I opened the door too often.

The 30-inch model performs exceptionally well for:

• A couple of chickens
• Smaller briskets
• 2–3 racks of ribs
• A handful of wings or sausages

It hits the sweet spot for households with moderate BBQ needs.

The 40-inch model, however, is built for volume. With 970 square inches of cooking real estate, I easily fit:

• 7-8 racks of ribs
• Two full packer briskets
• Large turkeys
• Multiple pork butts

If you’re hosting large gatherings or cooking in bulk for freezing or events, the capacity upgrade feels worth every inch.

Both units deliver the same smoke flavor, moisture retention, and low-and-slow consistency. The only advantage the 40-inch actually has here is space.

4. Convenience & Cleanup

Cleanup is straightforward for both smokers thanks to:

• The rear grease tray
• Removable water bowl
• Chrome-coated racks
• Pull-out components

Both smokers use the same internal layout, so maintaining them feels identical. The only difference I consistently noticed is that the 40-inch gives more room to reach inside, making wiping down the interior slightly more convenient.

Masterbuilt 30 Inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker

Pros:

• Ideal size for small patios and limited spaces
• Lighter weight and easier to move
• Uses less electricity
• Perfect for small to medium families
• Same features as the bigger model at a lower price

Cons:

• Limited capacity for large cuts
• Not ideal for hosting bigger events
• Tall items can feel cramped inside

Masterbuilt 40 Inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker

Pros:

• Huge 970 sq. in. cooking area
• Can handle large gatherings and bulk cooking
• Wider interior fits bigger cuts comfortably
• Same controls and convenience features as the 30-inch

Cons:

• Takes up more space
• Heavier to move without the wheel kit
• Slightly higher energy consumption

Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy?

After cooking on both, the decision is very clear in my mind.

If your smoking sessions are mostly for family meals, weekly cooks, and occasional hosting, the 30-inch model works wonderfully. It delivers the same flavor, the same performance, and the same ease of use without taking up much room.

But if you entertain frequently, smoke in larger quantities, or want the flexibility to cook bigger cuts without rearranging racks, the 40-inch model is the better investment. The additional space changes the entire workflow, and I personally found it far more comfortable for full-size briskets and multiple racks of ribs.

My recommendation:

Choose the 30-inch for everyday home use.
Choose the 40-inch if you want true capacity and versatility.