I run a small hot mesquite fire in my off-sets. I have tried only mesquite this way and i have observed hardly any flavor from it...only heat. This is because the fire is burning clean and hot. I add fruit wood for smoke/flavor.
Electric Smokers smolder wood in a oxygen starved environment. Woods like mesquite and black walnut do not lend themselves to this type of smoker due to the harsh smoke they produce......I usually use a pc of hickory or oak and one pc of fruit, this will calm down the hickory/oak. Burn rate and the type of smoker will affect the tastes certain woods impart to your protiens.....imho.........