MES - Black or SS

[bud lite]

I am planning to purchase a mes (Masterbuilt Electric Smoker) in a few days.
Am wondering whether to get the black or stainless steel model.

1) Of course, there is the price difference.
2) I read that the black one will get warm in the hot sun.
3) I suppose the SS is easier to clean. But, is this a big plus? How often does it need cleaning?

If you were to buy one again, which would you get? Black or SS? And why?

 

[joneser]

I'd buy the SS smoker if the price difference wasn't too great. SS should hold up better to the elements and heat from the fire.

 

[zzerru]

I have had the black one for 3 years and have never had a problem.

 

[michdeerhunter]

I have the SS and it looks nice but I think the inside is the same. Even if the inside is different, it all looks pretty dark after a few uses. Mine is covered anyway with a grill cover when not in use. Unless you are going to display it, you might want to save the money and buy some accessories like a digital meat thermometer and wood chips. Just my $.02.

 

[fishawn]

I have the black 30" model & it is about 7 months old. It still looks pretty much new on the outside. The black costs quite a bit less than the SS. I do keep it under a covered patio or in a storage room at all times. If you want a little smoker "BLING" go SS, if you are practical, like previously mentioned on this thread, spend the extra $ on a thermo or buy yourself a brisket or two.

 

[ronp]

They have the stainless steel at ebay at a savings. I love my stainless steel MES. Easy to clean and easy on the eyes.

 

[pantherfan83]

I have the SS 40" and I love it.

 

[kookie]

From what I have seen the insides are identical, both ss inside.. The ss is nice for clean up and holds up to the elements maybe better, I don't leave any of my smokers out side when not being used (specialy my electric ones). But thats just me. You can get the black mes on wally worlds web site for like 188 or you can get the large 40 ss at sams for about 300. If your going to go with the 30 ss then I would get the 40 ss at sams for a few bucks more.

 

[mossymo]

I have a SS 40" and a black 30" powder coat. I am partial to SS, but both are kept in the garage. Personally I love the SS, but the black powder coat is also and awesome smoker.

MES is a good electric choice no matter which model you choose.

 

[smokin'k]

Like the other guys, I have the black model and keep it under a BBQ cover when not in use. The outside looks as good as the day I bought it. I think I might get tired wiping off the fingerprints on the SS model. Nothing looks nicer then clean SS, but it looks pretty bad when it's all smudged out...

 

[ronp]

Not hard to keep clean at all. Got some ss cleaner at Sams and usually one wipie will do it unless you spill something, but you would have to clean it up also with the black. The SS just looks like a Cadiallac when claen.

Not sure if the black comes with a cover or not, the SS does.

Good luck whatever you choose.

 

[mossymo]

ronp100343
I have the same SS cleaner/polisher srom Sam's Club, works great !!!

 

[trent741]

I don't know when you have time to clean yours Ron.....You are ALWAYS smoking something

lol

 

[ronp]

yeppers.

True but that's why I love it. Easy = more smokes.