I think it depends on your particular situation. An electric is sort of like having a really crappy outdoor oven, but it is easier to manage than charcoal or wood. Just know that you will be made fun of mercilessly by those who prefer the latter.
The cheapest way to go would be the self-build UDS. If you have the skills and time to do it, you will not regret the decision.
I am not much of a DIY guy, so I personally like the Weber Smokey Mountain water smokers. Though the do cost more than a UDS, They are relatively inexpensive compared to most other quality smokers, and turn out some great quality meat. If you go with a bullet type smoke, only use Weber. It really is worth the extra money.
If money is not as much of an issue, there is the offset type. You can get these in just about any style and look you can imagine. These are the "quintessential" smokers, and are still what is mostly seen around competitions. I don't have one, so I can't speak about it with any great authority, but people who have them really seem to love them. Be careful about what brand you go with though...these things are not all created equal!
I think the real question you should ask your self is not which smoker you should get, but which smoker you should get FIRST! I guarantee you that once you get one, you will want more...and more...and more. Eventually your deck will look like some sort of weird droid junykard.
Good Luck!
) then a UDS is a great way to get started. If you would rather go turnkey then I recommend a WSM. Yeah, it is quite a bit more expensive than the water smokers, but I really think you will be happier with the results.
