Best Electric Smokers Under $500 (2025) — Top Picks

Tired of guesswork, uneven cooks, or dropping a small fortune on gear that underperforms? Finding an electric smoker that delivers consistent, mouthwatering results without breaking the bank is tougher than it should be. That’s why a lineup of dependable, easy-to-use smokers under $500 matters — they give you set-and-forget convenience, steady temperature control, and real barbecue flavor for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts.

This guide highlights the best electric smokers under 500 for 2025, chosen to help home cooks get pro-level smoke on a budget. Each pick is backed by hands-on research, thousands of Amazon reviews, and expert analysis to ensure reliability, value, and performance. Whether you want a compact model for apartment balconies or a roomy unit for feeding a crowd, these options focus on what you actually need: consistent temps, easy cleanup, and great smoke flavor.

Ready to find the smoker that fits your style and budget? Here are our top-rated electric smokers for 2025.

EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker Review: Effortless Outdoor Smoking with Big Flavor

If you’re passionate about smoking meats but want a hassle-free experience, the EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker is definitely worth considering. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts who crave rich, smoky flavors without constant monitoring, this smoker offers innovative features to make your BBQ sessions smooth and rewarding. With generous cooking space and smart temperature controls, it promises to elevate your outdoor cooking game.

Key Features

• Extended Smoke Duration: Enjoy up to six times longer smoking sessions on a single wood chip load, meaning less refilling and more consistent flavor development.
• Built-In Meat Probe: Tracks the internal temperature of your meat in real-time, eliminating guesswork and preventing overcooking. The smoker automatically switches to keep-warm mode when your target temperature is reached.
• Side Chip Loader: Conveniently add wood chips without opening the main door, ensuring uninterrupted heat and steady smoke throughout your cooking.
• Large Cooking Area: With 725 square inches of cooking space, this smoker accommodates multiple racks of ribs, whole birds, or various cuts simultaneously—perfect for large meals and gatherings.
• User-Friendly Digital Controls: Easily set cooking time and temperature with intuitive digital buttons, allowing for stress-free “set it and forget it” operation.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Longer smoke times reduce chip refills and interruptions.
• Accurate temperature monitoring with automatic keep-warm feature.
• Side chip loader maintains heat and smoke consistency.
• Spacious cooking area ideal for batch cooking.
• Simple digital controls enhance ease of use.

Cons:

• No remote control feature for monitoring from a distance.
• Electric powered—requires access to an outlet, limiting portability.

Performance & User Experience

In real-world use, the EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker excels at maintaining steady temperatures and rich smoke infusion. Users appreciate the convenience of the built-in meat probe that removes the need to open the door and lose heat, delivering perfectly cooked meats every time. The side chip loader is a game-changer, allowing you to add wood chips anytime without interrupting the process, which keeps flavors consistent throughout long smokes. The large cooking area means you can smoke multiple items at once, saving time during family gatherings or weekend meal prep.

Comparison

Compared to the Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker, which also offers digital controls and built-in probes, the EAST OAK stands out with its impressive 6× longer smoking duration per chip load and the innovative side chip loader for uninterrupted smoking. While Masterbuilt includes a remote controller option, EAST OAK focuses on consistent heat retention and larger cooking capacity, making it ideal for serious outdoor cooks who value quantity and flavor consistency.

Who Is This Product For?

This smoker is perfect for BBQ enthusiasts seeking an easy-to-use, low-maintenance electric smoker. It suits families who cook for larger groups, weekend hosts who want to prepare big batches effortlessly, and anyone who values accurate temperature control and uninterrupted smoke sessions without constant monitoring.

Final Verdict

The EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker delivers on flavor, convenience, and capacity. Its smart features like the built-in meat probe and side chip loader make it a standout choice for anyone looking to simplify the smoking process while achieving professional-quality results. Although it lacks remote monitoring, its strengths in consistent smoke generation and spacious cooking area outweigh this minor limitation. If you want a reliable electric smoker that lets you relax while it does the work, the EAST OAK is a compelling option.

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Masterbuilt® 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker Review

If you’re passionate about smoked meats and crave a hassle-free way to achieve authentic barbecue flavors, the Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker might just be your new best friend. Combining modern technology with the traditional art of smoking, this smoker offers ample cooking space, easy controls, and innovative features designed to help you master the slow-cooked smoky taste right in your backyard.

Key Features

• Generous Cooking Space: With 710 square inches spread across four chrome-coated racks, this smoker can easily handle large meals – enough for up to 7 whole chickens, 2 turkeys, or multiple racks of ribs simultaneously.
• Digital Controls: Set precise cooking times and temperatures (up to 275°F) using the easy-to-read digital panel, making smoking straightforward for beginners and pros alike.
• Patented Side Wood Chip Loader: Add wood chips anytime without opening the door, maintaining consistent smoke levels and flavor throughout longer cooks.
• Removable Water Bowl & Grease Tray: These components make it simple to add moisture to your meats and clean up after cooking.
• Vertical Design: Efficiently uses vertical space to maximize heat and smoke flow for perfectly cooked, juicy results.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Spacious interior suitable for large gatherings
  • User-friendly digital interface
  • Innovative side wood chip loader keeps smoke consistent
  • Easy to clean with removable components
  • Vertical design enhances smoke circulation and flavor
• Cons:
  • Maximum temperature limited to 275°F – may not suit high-temp grilling
  • Electric power source required, limiting portability
  • Vertical smokers may require more vertical clearance space

Performance & User Experience

In real-world use, the Masterbuilt digital smoker delivers consistent temperature control and excellent smoke infusion, thanks to its thoughtfully engineered vertical design. The patented side wood chip loader is a standout feature, allowing you to maintain a steady stream of smoke without interrupting the cooking process. Cleanup is straightforward with the removable water bowl and grease tray, reducing post-cooking hassle considerably. Many users appreciate how easy it is to set up and monitor cooking thanks to the digital panel, which removes much of the guesswork from traditional smoking.

Comparison

Compared to other electric smokers like the Weber Smokey Mountain or Char-Broil Digital Electric Smoker, the Masterbuilt stands out for its larger cooking capacity and the innovative side wood chip loader. While some competitors reach higher temperatures, the Masterbuilt excels at low-and-slow smoking, making it ideal for those who prioritize flavor and tenderness over quick cooking.

Who Is This Product For?

This smoker is perfect for barbecue enthusiasts who value convenience without sacrificing authentic smoky flavor. It’s especially suited for families and hosts who want to prepare large quantities of smoked meats with minimal hassle. Beginners will appreciate the digital controls, while seasoned pitmasters will enjoy the flexibility of the side chip loader and spacious cooking racks.

Final Verdict

The Masterbuilt 30-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker is a versatile and reliable smoker that makes producing delicious smoked meats accessible to users of all skill levels. Its spacious design, intuitive digital controls, and unique features like the side wood chip loader set it apart in the electric smoker market. If you’re looking to elevate your outdoor cooking game with consistent, mouth-watering results, this smoker deserves a spot in your backyard.

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EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro 30″ Electric Smoker Review: Effortless Outdoor Smoking with Maximum Flavor

If you’re passionate about smoking meats but want a hassle-free experience with professional results, the EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro 30″ Electric Smoker is an excellent contender. Designed for both beginners and seasoned pitmasters, this smoker promises longer smoke times, precise temperature control, and ample cooking space to satisfy any outdoor cooking enthusiast.

Key Features That Make a Difference

• Extended Smoke Duration: Enjoy up to six times longer smokes per wood chip load, which means less frequent refills and more consistent smoke flavor throughout your cooking session.
• Built-in Meat Probe: The integrated temperature probe continuously monitors your meat’s internal temperature, eliminating guesswork and preventing overcooking by automatically switching to keep-warm mode once your target temp is reached.
• Elevated Stand: No more kneeling or crouching. The elevated design brings the smoker to a comfortable height, making it easier to check and adjust your food without strain.
• Side Chip Loader: Add wood chips anytime without opening the main door or losing heat, ensuring uninterrupted smoking and balanced flavors.
• Spacious Cooking Area: With 725 square inches of cooking space, you can smoke multiple racks of ribs, whole birds, or several cuts simultaneously—perfect for family gatherings and meal prep.
• Digital Controls: Set your desired time and temperature easily, then let the smoker handle the rest for stress-free smoking every time.
• Reliable Warranty & Support: Comes with a 3-year limited warranty and lifetime customer support for peace of mind.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Long smoke duration reduces interruptions
  • Accurate built-in meat probe improves cooking precision
  • Ergonomic elevated stand enhances user comfort
  • Side chip loader allows chip refills without heat loss
  • Large cooking area suitable for big batches
  • User-friendly digital controls simplify operations
  • Strong warranty and responsive customer service
• Cons:
  • Electric smokers depend on power source, limiting portability
  • Relatively large footprint may require ample outdoor space

Performance & User Experience

In real-world use, the EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro delivers consistent and flavorful results. The extended smoke time means you can set it and focus on other activities without frequent monitoring. The built-in meat probe is a standout feature for ensuring perfectly cooked meats every time, avoiding dry or undercooked results. Users appreciate the elevated stand for reducing back strain during long smoke sessions. The side chip loader is particularly handy, maintaining steady smoke without temperature fluctuations when adding chips. Overall, this smoker offers a smooth, enjoyable experience that suits both casual weekend cooks and serious barbecue lovers.

Comparison with Similar Products

Compared to popular electric smokers like the Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker, the EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro offers a larger cooking area and a longer smoke duration per chip load. The built-in meat probe with automatic keep-warm mode is also a significant upgrade, providing enhanced precision that some competitors lack. While Masterbuilt offers a variety of features, the Ridgewood Pro’s ergonomic stand and side chip loader give it an edge in convenience and usability.

Who Is This Product For?

This electric smoker is ideal for barbecue enthusiasts who want to enjoy authentic smoked flavors without the hassle of constant monitoring. It’s perfect for families, weekend warriors, and anyone preparing larger meals for gatherings. If you appreciate technology that simplifies cooking and prefer an ergonomic setup for longer sessions, the Ridgewood Pro will fit your needs well.

Final Verdict

The EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro 30″ Electric Smoker is a thoughtfully designed and reliable smoker that elevates outdoor cooking with smart features and user-friendly controls. Its combination of extended smoke times, precise temperature monitoring, and a spacious cooking area makes it a top choice for those looking to smoke meats effortlessly while achieving delicious results. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, this smoker offers great value and performance backed by solid warranty support.

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Digital Electric Smoker with Cover Review: Your Ultimate Backyard BBQ Companion

If you’re passionate about smoking meats and crave that authentic BBQ flavor with minimal fuss, the Digital Electric Smoker with Cover is definitely worth considering. Featuring a generous cooking space, precise digital controls, and handy smart functions, this smoker promises to elevate your outdoor cooking game whether you’re a weekend grill master or a seasoned pit boss.

Key Features That Make This Smoker Stand Out

• Spacious 633 sq. in. Cooking Area: Four removable chrome racks offer plenty of room for ribs, brisket, whole poultry, or fish—perfect for feeding large groups or meal prepping.
• Precision Digital Temperature Control (100°F–400°F): Easily adjust and maintain the ideal smoking temperature for everything from delicate cold smoking to high-heat hot smoking.
• Built-in Meat Probe with Beep Alerts: Monitor internal temperatures in real time and get notified when your meat reaches the perfect doneness between 50°F and 250°F.
• Smart Timer Function: Set your desired cooking duration and enjoy hands-free smoking—once time’s up, the smoker alerts you automatically.
• Side Pull-Out Grease Tray: Conveniently collects drippings for easy cleanup without lifting or tipping the smoker.
• Insulated Chamber for Year-Round Use: Durable insulation and sealed door ensure consistent heat retention even in colder weather.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Large cooking capacity ideal for families and gatherings
  • User-friendly digital controls with precise temperature management
  • Integrated meat probe ensures perfectly cooked results
  • Smart timer adds convenience for slow-cooking enthusiasts
  • Easy-to-clean grease tray reduces mess after cooking
  • Well-insulated design suitable for all seasons
• Cons:
  • Bulkier footprint may require adequate backyard space
  • Some users may prefer more advanced connectivity options like app control

Performance & User Experience

In real-world use, this electric smoker delivers consistently juicy and flavorful results thanks to its precise temperature regulation and efficient heat retention. The built-in meat probe takes the guesswork out of smoking, letting you multitask while the smoker does its job. Users appreciate the ample cooking space which can handle multiple types of meat simultaneously, making it ideal for entertaining guests or batch cooking. Cleanup is hassle-free due to the pull-out grease tray, a feature that many smokers overlook but is invaluable for maintaining the unit.

Comparison with Similar Products

When compared to other popular electric smokers like the Masterbuilt MB20071117, this model offers a larger cooking area (633 sq. in. vs. around 700 sq. in. split across fewer racks), built-in meat probe, and a more intuitive digital interface. While some competitors provide Wi-Fi connectivity, this smoker focuses on straightforward, reliable performance without complicating the user experience.

Who Is This Product For?

This smoker is perfect for BBQ lovers who want a balance of convenience, capacity, and precision without breaking the bank. Ideal for large families, avid entertainers, or anyone looking to explore smoking various types of meat with consistent success. If you’re seeking an all-season electric smoker that’s easy to use and clean, this product fits the bill perfectly.

Final Verdict

The Digital Electric Smoker with Cover offers outstanding value with its large cooking space, accurate temperature control, and thoughtful features like the meat probe and grease tray. It delivers dependable, delicious smoking results for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. With durable construction and smart functions, it’s a versatile addition to any backyard kitchen.

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Masterbuilt® 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker Review

If you’re passionate about smoking meats but want a hassle-free experience with consistent results, the Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker is worth your attention. Combining modern digital controls with classic BBQ smoking techniques, this smoker offers ample space and innovative features to elevate your outdoor cooking sessions.

Key Features

• Spacious 970 Sq. In. Cooking Area: Four chrome-coated racks provide enough room to smoke up to 16 chickens, 8 racks of ribs, or multiple pork butts and turkeys simultaneously.
• Digital Controls: Easily set and monitor temperature up to 275°F and customizable cooking time, allowing for precise low-and-slow smoking.
• Patented Side Wood Chip Loader: Add wood chips without opening the door, which keeps smoke inside for enhanced flavor and stable cooking conditions.
• Removable Water Bowl and Grease Tray: Maintain moisture in your meats and simplify cleanup with detachable components designed for easy handling.
• Vertical Design: Optimizes smoke circulation and conserves outdoor space, making it practical for any backyard setup.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Large cooking capacity ideal for family gatherings or parties
  • Simple digital interface reduces guesswork in smoking
  • Continuous wood chip addition without heat loss
  • Easy-to-clean components save time after use
  • Compact vertical design fits well in smaller outdoor spaces
• Cons:
  • Maximum temperature capped at 275°F, limiting high-heat smoking options
  • Electric power source required—less portable than charcoal models
  • Assembly can take some time and patience

Performance & User Experience

In real-world use, the Masterbuilt MB20070122 excels at consistent temperature control and even smoke distribution. The digital panel is intuitive, allowing users to set timers and exact temperatures with ease. The patented side wood chip loader is a standout feature, enabling continuous smoke infusion without losing heat or opening the door. This means flavors stay locked in, and cooking times remain steady. Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the removable water bowl and grease tray, which catch drippings and make maintenance hassle-free. Whether you’re smoking brisket, ribs, or poultry, this unit delivers tender, flavorful results every time.

Comparison

Compared to the Weber Smokey Mountain 18-inch charcoal smoker, the Masterbuilt electric model offers more convenience with its digital controls and larger cooking space. While the Weber appeals to traditionalists who prefer charcoal flavor and manual control, the Masterbuilt is perfect for those who want consistent, low-effort smoking without sacrificing taste. However, if you seek higher temperature ranges or portability, the Weber might be preferable.

Who Is This Product For?

This smoker is ideal for barbecue enthusiasts who value convenience, precision, and large cooking capacity. It suits backyard chefs hosting family gatherings or neighborhood cookouts who want to master low and slow smoking without constant supervision. Additionally, those new to electric smokers will appreciate the user-friendly digital controls and practical features that simplify the smoking process.

Final Verdict

The Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ Smoker is a fantastic investment for anyone seeking an effortless way to achieve delicious smoked meats. Its spacious design, smart digital controls, and innovative wood chip loader make it stand out in the electric smoker market. While it may not replace charcoal’s smoky punch for purists, it delivers consistent, mouthwatering results with minimal fuss. If you want a smoker that’s easy to use, clean, and packed with features, this Masterbuilt model is hard to beat.

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Brisk It Zelos-450 Electric Wood Pellet Smoker Grill Review

If you’re passionate about outdoor cooking and want a smart, versatile, and reliable grill, the Brisk It Zelos-450 Electric Wood Pellet Smoker Grill is definitely worth considering. Combining advanced AI technology with classic wood pellet smoking, this 7-in-1 grill is designed to make BBQs effortless, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced griller. Let’s dive into what makes this grill a standout choice for your backyard culinary adventures.

Key Features

• VERA Generative Cooking A.I.: This innovative assistant understands natural language commands, helping you create tailored recipes simply by typing or speaking. Ideal for busy cooks or those new to pellet smoking who want guided assistance.
• Smart Auto Cooking Management: VERA continuously monitors your cooking, adjusting temperature and settings automatically to ensure perfect results without constant supervision—offering a truly hands-off experience.
• Precise Temperature Control: Equipped with an industrial-grade PID controller, the grill maintains temperatures from 180°F to 500°F with remarkable accuracy, perfect for everything from slow smoking to high-heat searing.
• 7-in-1 Cooking Versatility: Smoke, grill, BBQ, bake, roast, sear, braise, and char-grill on one device fueled by 100% natural wood pellets for authentic smoky flavor.
• Durable and Spacious: With 450 sq. in. of cooking space—enough for 15 burgers or 2 racks of ribs—the grill is built tough with weather-resistant steel, rugged wheels for mobility, a meat probe for precise cooking, and an optional cover for year-round use.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• AI-powered recipe assistant simplifies cooking for all skill levels
• Automatic temperature adjustments ensure consistent results
• Wide temperature range supports diverse cooking methods
• Generous cooking area suitable for family gatherings
• Durable build with weather-resistant materials
• Real wood pellet fuel enhances authentic smoky flavors
• Cons:
• Premium features come with a higher price point
• Some users may find the tech learning curve steep initially
• Requires WiFi connection to fully utilize AI capabilities

Performance & User Experience

In real-world use, the Brisk It Zelos-450 offers an impressively intuitive grilling experience. Its AI assistant, VERA, takes the guesswork out of cooking by providing smart recipes and dynamically managing heat and cooking time. Pellet feeding is consistent, and the PID controller keeps temperature fluctuations minimal, which is crucial for smoking meats low and slow or achieving a perfect sear. The spacious grill surface easily accommodates multiple dishes at once, making it ideal for entertaining. Users appreciate the durable design that withstands various weather conditions, while the convenient meat probe adds precision for perfectly cooked proteins.

Comparison with Similar Products

Compared to popular competitors like the Traeger Pro series, the Brisk It Zelos-450 stands out with its integrated AI cooking assistant and slightly more advanced temperature control. While Traeger grills are known for reliability and ecosystem support, Zelos-450’s AI-driven automation offers a more hands-off and customized cooking experience, particularly beneficial for novices. However, Traeger’s broader dealer network may offer easier customer support in some regions.

Who Is This Product For?

The Brisk It Zelos-450 is perfect for BBQ enthusiasts who want to elevate their outdoor cooking with smart technology and versatility. It suits beginners who want guided support, busy individuals who prefer effortless cooking, and seasoned grillers looking for precise temperature control and multiple cooking options—all wrapped in a durable, well-built package.

Final Verdict

The Brisk It Zelos-450 Electric Wood Pellet Smoker Grill is a game-changer in the pellet grill market thanks to its intelligent AI assistant and superior temperature control. While it carries a premium price, the convenience, flexibility, and consistent results it delivers make it a worthy investment for anyone serious about outdoor cooking. Whether you’re smoking ribs or searing steaks, this grill adapts to your needs, making it easier than ever to become the backyard BBQ champion.

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Electric Smoker Generator: Elevate Your Smoking Game with Precision and Ease

If you’re passionate about smoking meats, cheeses, or even nuts and whiskey, the Electric Smoker Generator Stainless Steel Smoke Tube is a gadget worth considering. Designed to deliver consistent smoke output for both hot and cold smoking, this device promises flavor-packed results whether you’re a weekend griller or a seasoned pitmaster. Let’s dive into why this smoke generator stands out in the crowded market of smoker accessories.

Key Features

• Hot & Cold Smoking Capability: Maintains temperatures between 60°F and 70°F for cold smoking delicate items like cheese and salmon, while also providing up to 12 hours of smoke for hot smoking meats.
• Adjustable Smoke Volume: Comes equipped with an air pump that lets you control smoke intensity, perfect for fine-tuning your smoking process and achieving desired flavors.
• Versatile Compatibility: Works seamlessly with pellet smokers, gas grills, and even Blackstone griddles, expanding your smoking options beyond traditional smokers.
• Convenient Refilling: Unlike standard smoke tubes, this generator allows you to add pellets mid-smoking without losing heat or smoke, ensuring uninterrupted flavor infusion.
• Customizable Flavor Profiles: Use your choice of wood chips—cherry, hickory, mesquite, apple, pecan—to tailor the smoky taste to your preference.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• Consistent smoke for up to 12 hours
• Adjustable airflow for precise smoking control
• Compatible with multiple grill types
• Easy pellet refilling without opening the smoker
• Enhances flavor with real wood smoke
• Cons:
• Requires electrical outlet for air pump operation
• Learning curve for optimal smoke volume adjustment

Performance & User Experience

In real-world use, this electric smoke generator delivers near-instant smoke that surrounds your food beautifully, creating that coveted smoke ring and rich aroma. Users appreciate how easily it integrates with different grills and smokers, especially those struggling to get enough smoke from their pellet grills alone. The ability to refill pellets on the go means no interruptions, preserving steady temperature and flavor. The adjustable air pump is a game-changer for smokers who want nuanced control over smoke density. Whether cold smoking cheeses or hot smoking ribs, the device performs reliably and elevates home smoking results.

Comparison with Similar Products

Compared to basic smoke tubes or traditional wood chip trays, this electric smoke generator offers superior control and longer smoke duration. While some electric smokers offer integrated smoking functionality, this standalone generator adds versatility by fitting multiple grill types and allowing quick pellet refills without heat loss—something many competitors lack.

Who Is This Product For?

• Home cooks and barbecue enthusiasts wanting consistent smoke flavor without complex setups
• Cold smoking aficionados who need precise low-temperature smoke control for cheese, salmon, or nuts
• Pellet grill owners looking to boost their smoke output and flavor
• Anyone who loves experimenting with different wood chips and smoke profiles
• Those seeking a thoughtful gift for a grilling or smoking hobbyist

Final Verdict

The Electric Smoker Generator with its stainless steel smoke tube and adjustable air pump is a versatile, user-friendly tool that can transform your smoking experience. Its ability to provide both hot and cold smoke with precise airflow control makes it stand out as a reliable accessory for serious grillers and casual smokers alike. The convenience of adding pellets without opening the smoker and the compatibility with various grills further enhance its appeal. If you want deeper smoky flavors and effortless control, this product is a smart investment.

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