The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Pellet Grill for Your Outdoor Cooking Needs

March 27, 2023 11 min read

Pellet grills are a fantastic option for outdoor cooking, whether you prefer your meat well-done or with a smoky flavor. They stand out from other types of grills due to their versatility and user-friendly design.

Wood pellets can be used at various temperatures, ranging from a low simmer of about 250 degrees Fahrenheit to a higher temperature that can reach up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the grill model.

With digital controls, an internal thermostat, and an electric hopper that automatically feeds pellets to the firebox, pellet grills are incredibly easy to use. However, keep in mind that because of their automated and electric features, they require both fire and electricity to operate.

If you're looking to purchase the best pellet grill, there are several features to consider, such as size, construction, temperature range, and ease of use. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of these features and presents the top pellet grill options available on the market today.

From small portable models to larger units that are perfect for a backyard barbecue, each selection was thoroughly researched and vetted to ensure the best options were presented.

Discover the 7 BEST Pellet Grills for Perfectly Smoked Meat Every Time

1- Traeger Pro 575 WiFi Pellet Grill and Smoker- Best overall

The Traeger Pro 575 is a top-of-the-line pellet grill option from one of the most respected brands in the industry. With exceptional construction and intelligent design, it's considered one of the best pellet grills available today.

One of the key features of the Traeger Pro 575 is its D2 drivetrain, which enables it to ignite and heat up faster than other pellet grills on the market. In addition, Traeger's WiFire technology allows you to control the grill remotely using the Traeger app or voice commands via Alexa.

This grill is made from heavy-gauge steel, ensuring it can withstand heavy use and last for many years. Its large 18-pound hopper capacity means it can run for extended periods without requiring a refill, making it an excellent choice for longer cook times.

The Traeger Pro 575 offers a generous 575 square inches of cooking surface, making it a great option for cooking for larger groups.

Specs	Pros	Cons
Cooking Surface: 575 square inches	Exceptional build quality	Relatively expensive
Width: 41 inches	Large cooking surface
Hopper Capacity: 18 pounds	Generous hopper capacity

2- Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill- The Runner-Up

If you're looking for a high-quality pellet grill that won't break the bank, the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX is an excellent choice. It features a spacious 573 square inches of cooking surface and a large hopper that can hold up to 18 pounds of pellets, providing enough fuel for an entire day of smoking or grilling.

One of the standout features of this grill is its ability to accommodate two meat probes, which allow you to monitor the temperature of your food from the digital controls without needing to open the lid.

The 2021 model boasts updated controls that help to maintain temperature consistency, making it an excellent option for those who value precision cooking.

The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX comes in three different finishes - black, bronze, and stainless steel - to fit a variety of style preferences.

Specs	Pros	Cons
Cooking Surface: 573 square inches	Reasonably priced	Lacks Wi-Fi connectivity
Size: 45 inches wide	Dual meat probe inputs
Hopper Capacity: 18 pounds	Improved temperature controls

3- Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker- Best Bang For The Buck

The Z GRILLS pellet grill is an excellent option for those seeking an affordable addition to their outdoor kitchen. With a price tag hundreds of dollars less than other models, it offers an excellent entry point for those looking to get into pellet grilling. Despite its affordable price, the Z GRILLS pellet grill still offers many features commonly found in higher-end models.

The side-mounted 15-pound hopper feeds a spacious 450-square-inch cooking surface, providing ample space and time for grilling. The digital controls allow for precise temperature settings, providing the ability to customize the cooking experience to your liking.

The grill is constructed from durable steel and is finished with a powder coating to protect against rust.

At 45 inches wide, the Z GRILLS pellet grill is relatively compact compared to other models on the market. While it offers ample cooking space, the hopper capacity is smaller, and the maximum temperature it can reach is 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Specs	Pros	Cons
Cooking Surface: 450 square inches	Spacious cooking surface	Smaller hopper capacity
Width: 45 inches	Digital temperature controls
Hopper Capacity: 15 pounds	Durable steel construction

4- Weber SmokeFire EX6 Wood Fired Pellet Grill-Best Upgrade

The Z GRILLS pellet grill is an excellent option for those seeking an affordable addition to their outdoor kitchen. With a price tag hundreds of dollars less than other models, it offers an excellent entry point for those looking to get into pellet grilling.

Despite its affordable price, the Z GRILLS pellet grill still offers many features commonly found in higher-end models.

The side-mounted 15-pound hopper feeds a spacious 450-square-inch cooking surface, providing ample space and time for grilling. The digital controls allow for precise temperature settings, providing the ability to customize the cooking experience to your liking.

The grill is constructed from durable steel and is finished with a powder coating to protect against rust.

At 45 inches wide, the Z GRILLS pellet grill is relatively compact compared to other models on the market. While it offers ample cooking space, the hopper capacity is smaller, and the maximum temperature it can reach is 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Specs	Pros	Cons
Cooking Surface: 450 square inches	Spacious cooking surface	Smaller hopper capacity
Hopper Capacity: 15 pounds	Digital temperature controls
Width: 45 inches	Durable steel construction

5- Oklahoma Joe’s Rider Deluxe Pellet Grill-Best for steaks

The Oklahoma Joe's Rider Deluxe pellet grill is a versatile option that can achieve a maximum temperature of 650 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for creating a crispy crust on seared steaks. The Rider Deluxe also maintains a consistent temperature as low as 175 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal smoking of meats.

Backyard cooks can customize the cooking surface with a system of grates and racks, making it suitable for grilling or smoking. The innovative probe system allows for temperature monitoring and runtime tracking. Dual smoke stacks offer excellent airflow to ensure perfect cooking results. The grill's heavy-gauge steel construction ensures that it will last for years.

Specs	Pros	Cons
Cooking Surface: 1,234 square inches (575 square inches of grill surface)	Can achieve high maximum temperature	Lacks smart controls.
Size: 46.5 inches wide	Durable heavy-gauge steel construction
Hopper Capacity: 20 pounds	Multiple air vents for optimal airflow
	Multiple timers for convenient use

6. Traeger TBT18KLD Ranger – Best for Portability

When it comes to smoking your food while out in nature, the Traeger Ranger is simply unrivaled.

It's the perfect excuse to step out of your house and breathe in the fresh air. No matter where your wanderlust takes you, you can always bring the Ranger along.

Weighing in at a mere 60 lbs (which is not a lot when compared to other pellet grills), and with dimensions of 13 inches in height, 21 inches in width, and 20 inches in depth with the lid closed, this compact grill can easily fit into the trunk of your car without causing any inconvenience.

So why not take advantage of the great outdoors and make the most of your adventures by bringing along the Traeger Ranger? With this top-of-the-line portable grill, you can enjoy delicious, smoky meals in any location, anytime!

Specs	Pros	Cons
Cooking Surface: 176 square inches	Advanced Temperature Control Technology	Relatively expensive
Width: 21 inches	Assemble with Ease	Doesn’t Have any handle
Hopper Capacity: 8 pounds	Keep Warm Mode to Maintain Perfect Temperature
Weight: 54 Pounds	Effortless Cleaning

7. Recteq RT-1250 Wood Pellet Smoker Grill - BEST High end Pellet Smoker

The Recteq RT-1250 Wood Pellet Smoker Grill is a high-end pellet smoker grill that is designed to make outdoor cooking easy and delicious. The grill features a large 1,250 square-inch cooking area, which is perfect for cooking for large groups.

One of the standout features of the Recteq RT-1250 is its use of smart technology to control the temperature and monitor the cooking process. The grill is equipped with a Wi-Pellet Wi-Fi controller that allows you to control the temperature of the grill from your smartphone or tablet.

It also has a meat probe that allows you to monitor the internal temperature of your food without having to open the grill.

The Recteq RT-1250 uses wood pellets for fuel, which creates a distinct smoky flavor in your food. The grill has a large hopper that can hold up to 40 pounds of pellets, so you can enjoy extended cook times without having to refill frequently.

The grill is made with heavy-duty stainless-steel construction that is designed to withstand years of use. It also has a built-in ash pan for easy cleaning after use.

Specs	Pros	Cons
Cooking Surface: 1250 square inches	Meat probe included for easy monitoring of food temperature	High price tag
Wi-Pellet Wi-Fi controller	Large pellet hopper for longer smoking sessions	Some users may prefer the taste of charcoal grilling over pellets
Hopper Capacity: 40 pounds	Improved temperature controls	Grill may be difficult to move for some users
304 Stainless Steel Grill grate materials	easy cleaning after use
2 Grill Grates	Maximum Temperature 700 (°F)

Few Other Pellet Grills Worthy to Buy

We already Read about some of the best pellet smoker grills available in the market, there are also many other pellet grills worth considering that offer unique features and competitive pricing.

In this part, we will take a look at some of the other pellet grills on the market that are worth considering for your outdoor cooking needs.

8. Traeger Grills Pro Series 34 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker

The Traeger Grills Pro Series 34 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker is a premium outdoor cooking appliance that offers a wide range of features for barbecue enthusiasts. With precise temperature control, even heat distribution, and user-friendly features, this grill is ideal for cooking a variety of foods, including meats, vegetables, and baked goods.

While it comes with a premium price tag, its high-quality construction and range of features make it an excellent investment for anyone who takes outdoor cooking seriously.

Specs	Pros	Cons
Cooking Surface: 884 square inches	WiFIRE® technology for remote control	Expensive compared to other pellet grills
Weight: 136 Pounds	Durable construction with powder-coated finish	Limited maximum temperature of 450°F
Height X Width: 49x53 Inc.	Easy to clean	Heavy and difficult to move around
Depth: 27 Inche	Easy to assemble	Requires an electrical outlet for operation
Hopper Capacity: 18 pounds	Versatile cooking options	Limited pellet hopper capacity of 18 pounds

9. Traeger Grills Pro Series 780 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker

The Traeger Grills Pro Series 780 Wood Pellet Grilland Smoker is a high-quality and versatile outdoor cooking appliance that is designed for serious barbecuing enthusiasts.

With its large cooking area, precise temperature control, and WiFIRE® technology, this grill is perfect for cooking a variety of foods, including meats, vegetables, and baked goods.

Its durable construction and easy-to-clean features make it a reliable and convenient appliance for outdoor cooking. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Traeger Grills Pro Series 780 is an excellent investment for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking game.

Specs	Pros	Cons
Cooking Surface: 780 square inches	WiFIRE® technology for remote control	Expensive compared to other pellet grills
Weight: 173 Pounds	Durable construction with powder-coated finish	Limited maximum temperature of 500°F
Height X Width: 49x58 Inc.	Easy to clean	May require frequent pellet refills during long cooks
Depth: 27 Inche	Easy to assemble	Requires an electrical outlet for operation
Hopper Capacity: 18 pounds	Versatile cooking optionscapacity	Limited pellet hopper capacity of 18 pounds

What to Look for When Buying a Pellet Grill

When purchasing a pellet grill, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose a grill that best meets your needs. Here are some of the key things to look for when buying a pellet grill.

Size and Cooking Capacity: Consider the size of the grill and the amount of cooking space it provides. Pellet grills come in various sizes, so you'll want to choose one that fits the amount of food you plan to cook.
Construction Quality: Look for a pellet grill made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel, heavy-duty metal, and ceramic components. Durable construction will ensure the grill can withstand heavy use and last for many years.
Temperature Range and Control: Pellet grills can have different temperature ranges, so consider what temperatures you need for your cooking needs. Additionally, look for models with digital temperature control panels, which allow you to set and maintain precise cooking temperatures.
Hopper Capacity: The hopper is where the wood pellets are stored, and it's essential to choose a pellet grill with an adequately sized hopper to avoid frequent refilling. Larger hoppers are better for longer cooking times.
Ease of Use and Cleaning: Consider how easy it is to use the pellet grill, including features such as startup time, ignition, and temperature controls. Also, look for models with easy-to-clean components such as non-stick grates and ash pans.
Price: Pellet grills can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000, so determine your budget beforehand and choose a model that fits your needs and price range.

By considering these factors, you can select a pellet grill that meets your cooking needs and offers an enjoyable outdoor cooking experience.

Frequently Asked Questions:

If you're curious about how pellet grills work, here are some answers to common questions about these outdoor cooking appliances.

What is the working mechanism of a pellet grill?

Pellet grills use a hopper to hold the pellets, which are fed into the fire pot by an electric auger. Once in the fire pot, a heated rod ignites the pellets, and an electric fan provides ventilation to control the temperature. The thermostat regulates the fan and auger to maintain the temperature set on the control panel.

How long can a pellet grill last?

On average, pellet grills can last between 6 to 10 years with regular use. However, high-quality pellet grills can last longer with proper maintenance and care.

Is there a difference between a pellet grill and a pellet smoker?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but pellet grills are primarily for grilling, while pellet smokers are primarily for smoking.

Does a pellet grill require electricity?

Yes, a pellet grill needs electricity since it uses an electric auger, fan, and digital control panel.

Are pellet smokers as good as charcoal?

Pellet smokers offer several advantages over traditional charcoal smokers, including precise temperature control, ease of use, and less ash and smoke. While charcoal may offer a more authentic smoky flavor, pellet smokers can still produce excellent results.

Which is better, pellet or wood smoker?

Both options have their pros and cons. Wood smokers offer an authentic smoky flavor, while pellet smokers offer precise temperature control and user-friendliness. The best option depends on personal preferences and outdoor cooking needs.

How long do the pellets last in a portable pellet grill?

Pellet consumption can vary depending on the temperature, cooking time, and size of the hopper. As a general rule, one pound of pellets will last about an hour. Most portable pellet grills have hoppers that can hold between 5 and 19 pounds of pellets.

Can I use portable pellet grills for indoor cooking?

Portable pellet grills are designed for outdoor use as they produce smoke and require ventilation. Using them indoors can be dangerous and can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. It's important to use them in a well-ventilated area or outdoors.

How can I clean my pellet grill?

It's recommended to clean your pellet grill every three to five uses. Start by using a putty knife to scrape off any buildup from the inside of the lid. Remove the internal parts and scrape out the inside.

Use a shop vac to remove all the debris you've loosened. Wipe down the inside and outside of the pellet grill and reassemble it. Clean the grates after every grilling session while they're still hot.

Conclusion:

Pellet grills offer a versatile and easy-to-use outdoor cooking experience, and there are several great models available on the market. After reviewing the features and specifications of the models discussed above, the best pellet grill for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

However, one model that stands out as a top choice is the Traeger Pro 575. It offers a large cooking surface, high hopper capacity, and smart technology features like WiFire, allowing you to control the grill from your smartphone or with voice commands when paired with Alexa.

Additionally, the Traeger Pro 575's D2 drivetrain allows for faster heating and quicker cooking times, making it a great option for backyard chefs.

Ultimately, it's essential to choose a pellet grill that suits your cooking style, budget, and space requirements. With the right choice, you can enjoy delicious smoked and grilled meats in your own backyard for years to come.