Thanks for taking the time to reach out to our little gang, Ron! I can see that you're someone who makes an analytical decision about your purchases. Just the fact that you found Smokin-It smokers is a good achievement! I was pretty much in your same shoes, and it took me a long time to find our smokers. I hadn't made a purchase for a true "smoker" because I just couldn't get excited about what most of the market offers.
Stick burners: Way too maintenance-intensive. Yes, you'd fit in with the crew from Pit Masters, but who has time for that when you just want some good Q?
Propane: Joe said it best...propane bottles are a pain, and better left to the gas grill for some steaks and burgers.
Pellet: I'd love to have a Traeger (a buddy of mine has one), but way too many moving parts for my taste. Smokeasaurus will most likely convince you otherwise - watch out!
Electric: Like I said, I shopped electrics for a long time before finding Smokin-It, but once I found them, it didn't take long to make a decision! I own a #1 (like you - me, wife, one kiddo), and it's a good unit. As I've said before on here - I love the #1, but regret not going with a larger one. With a #1, you have to cut a brisket in half, can only do one large Boston butt at a time, and 1 1/2 racks of ribs.
You can't go wrong with Smokin-It smokers! The results are incredible, and they are very well-built! Bottom line - go with the largest size you can afford. You can always smoke a little in a large unit, but (take it from me) can
only smoke a little in a small one! I regret not getting at least a #2, but really a #3.
Let us know if you decide!