Pellet smokers make it super-easy to get it right. Some of my friends who can't boil an egg correctly make good smoked meat on a pellet smoker.

I have a kamado-style lump charcoal smoker/grill.

I bought a Traeger many years ago, I use it often....and then leave it for a while, just based on weather and appetite of the family.
That being said, it has provided some outstanding meals for the family, thanksgiving dinners, the smoked turkey is always a hit.

the earlier traegers seemed to have been built like tanks. I've heard the way to tell is whether the unit is screwed together or one-piece, welded, below the oven barrel and between the legs.

Either way, at $250, you can't go wrong. That's like 2 meals out at a restaurant around here.