Best gadgets for people who love to cook meat: sous vide, smart thermometer and smoker grill

Cooks who already own the basics often enjoy gadgets that give them more control over how food turns out. This guide covers a few well-known ones. We have not tested them ourselves; we picked established brands with large review counts. Check the listings for the latest specs and for what is included in the box. Prices move, so each card shows today's price from a top-rated seller.

What to check first

• Space. A smoker grill needs outdoor room or ventilation. A sous vide cooker needs a pot and a place to store it.
• Learning curve. Some gadgets pay off only if the person will take the time to use them.
• Running costs. Wood pellets, bags or refills can add up.
• Where you buy. Check the seller rating and the return window.

Precision cooking

A sous vide cooker holds water at an exact temperature, so meat and eggs cook evenly. The Anova connects to an app.

The MEATER Plus is a wireless thermometer you leave in the meat while it cooks. It is a good gift for anyone who grills or roasts.

Smoke and grill

The Ninja Woodfire is an electric outdoor grill that can add smoky flavor with wood pellets. It plugs into an outlet, so check where it will be used.

Frozen treats and drinks

The Ninja Creami turns frozen bases into ice cream and sorbet. Plan ahead: the pint has to be frozen first.

For a hot drink

Which one to buy

• For someone who loves to grill: MEATER Plus or Ninja Woodfire.
• For a curious home cook: Anova sous vide.
• For a dessert lover: Ninja Creami.

More ideas are in our kitchen gifts guide and the Dutch ovens guide.

Shuffle a pick