Those passionate about cooking outdoors often favor pellet smokers, due to their ability to effectively imbue food with a smoky taste. These implements are not your regular charcoal or gas grills, as they opt for using wood pellets as fuel. This distinctive method facilitates stable temperature and smoke levels, promising uniformly cooked meat in every use. Highlighting their adaptability, pellet smokers can be used for a range of cooking styles including grilling, roasting, smoking, and even baking.
When it comes to choosing the best pellet smoker, there are a few critical factors to consider. One of the most important is the size of the cooking area. If you plan on cooking for a large group of people, you’ll want a smoker with a larger cooking area. The quality of the construction material is also essential, as it will determine how well the smoker holds up over time. Additionally, the ease of use and cleaning should be taken into account.
After researching and testing various pellet smokers, we have identified the top models that offer the best combination of features and performance. In this article, we will take a closer look at each of these models and highlight their strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner, our guide will help you find the best pellet smoker for your needs.
Best Pellet Smokers
We have spent countless hours researching and testing various pellet smokers to bring you our top picks. These versatile outdoor cooking machines allow you to smoke, grill, bake, and roast your favorite meats and vegetables to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner, our list of the best pellet smokers has something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the top products on the market.
1. Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker with PID 2.0 Controller, 700 Cooking Area, Meat Probes, Rain Cover for Outdoor BBQ, 7002C ZPG-7002C
Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker
If you’re looking for a pellet smoker with a huge capacity and built to last, Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker with PID 2.0 Controller, 700 Cooking Area, Meat Probes, Rain Cover for Outdoor BBQ, 7002C ZPG-7002C is a great option.
Pros
- With PID 2.0 TECHNOLOGY, temperature consistency is ensured despite significant external temperature variations.
- The 700 sq in grilling space is great for Home, party, and tailgating.
- The hopper cleanout makes emptying the hopper and swapping pellet flavors a breeze.
Cons
- The temperature control mounting hardware consist of two small self-tapping screws, neither of which hold, resulting in a loose temperature control.
- The assembly of the smoker takes a few hours.
- The product box might come tattered.
We’ve had the chance to use Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker with PID 2.0 Controller, 700 Cooking Area, Meat Probes, Rain Cover for Outdoor BBQ, 7002C ZPG-7002C, and we’re impressed with its features. The PID 2.0 TECHNOLOGY ensures that the temperature is consistent, regardless of the external temperature. This feature is very important, especially if you’re cooking in an area with varying temperatures. The 700 sq in grilling space is also a great feature, making it perfect for home, party, and tailgating. We also like the hopper cleanout, which makes it easy to empty the hopper and swap pellet flavors.
However, there are some downsides to this product. The temperature control mounting hardware is not sturdy enough, resulting in a loose temperature control. The assembly of the smoker takes a few hours, so you need to set aside some time to assemble it. Lastly, the product box might come tattered, but the contents are secured inside.
Overall, if you’re looking for a pellet smoker with a huge capacity and built to last, Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker with PID 2.0 Controller, 700 Cooking Area, Meat Probes, Rain Cover for Outdoor BBQ, 7002C ZPG-7002C is a great option.
2. PIT BOSS PB440D2 Wood Pellet Grill
PIT BOSS PB440D2 Wood Pellet Grill
If you’re looking for a versatile grill that can handle a variety of cooking styles, the PIT BOSS PB440D2 Wood Pellet Grill is a great option.
Pros
- The fan forced convection cooking creates a versatile environment for searing, char-grilling, barbecuing, grilling, roasting, smoking, braising, and baking.
- The removable side shelf/serving tray is a convenient feature that provides extra space for food prep and serving.
- The digital control board w/ LED readout and dial-in temperature control knob make it easy to set and maintain the perfect temperature for your cooking needs.
Cons
- The hopper capacity of 5lbs may not be enough for long smoking sessions.
- Some users have reported issues with the temperature gauge on the lid and the ambient gauge being off by 50 degrees.
- The lack of a handle on the slide inside and to the side for opening can make it difficult to lift the top.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the PIT BOSS PB440D2 Wood Pellet Grill and were impressed with its overall performance. The fan forced convection cooking created a versatile cooking environment that allowed us to experiment with different cooking styles. The removable side shelf/serving tray was a convenient feature that provided extra space for food prep and serving. The digital control board w/ LED readout and dial-in temperature control knob made it easy to set and maintain the perfect temperature for our cooking needs.
While we were generally pleased with the performance of the grill, we did find that the hopper capacity of 5lbs was not always enough for long smoking sessions. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the temperature gauge on the lid and the ambient gauge being off by 50 degrees. Finally, the lack of a handle on the slide inside and to the side for opening can make it difficult to lift the top.
Overall, we would recommend the PIT BOSS PB440D2 Wood Pellet Grill to anyone looking for a versatile grill that can handle a variety of cooking styles.
3. Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill
Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly pellet smoker, the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX is a solid option.
Pros
- The automatic pellet auger dispenses pellets as needed, so you don’t have to babysit the grill.
- The clean-out ash can makes cleanup a breeze.
- With a large capacity pellet hopper, you’ll spend less time filling and more time smoking.
Cons
- The temperature control can be a bit finicky, so you may need to experiment to find the sweet spot.
- Some users have reported issues with the grill not reaching high enough temperatures for searing.
- The assembly instructions could be clearer.
We’ve used the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX for several smokes, and overall we’ve been happy with the results. The automatic pellet auger is a great feature – it dispenses pellets as needed, so you don’t have to worry about constantly monitoring the grill. Cleanup is also a breeze thanks to the clean-out ash can.
That being said, the temperature control can be a bit finicky. We’ve had to experiment with different settings to get the temperature just right. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the grill not reaching high enough temperatures for searing.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable pellet smoker, the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX is a solid choice. Just be prepared to spend some time experimenting with the temperature control to get the best results.
4. Z GRILLS 2023 Newest Pellet Grill Smoker
Z GRILLS 2023 Newest Pellet Grill Smoker
We highly recommend the Z GRILLS 2023 Newest Pellet Grill Smoker for its impressive features and durability.
Pros
- The PID 2.0 technology maintains temperature from 180°F to 450°F, and the Upgrade PID Controller keeps temps within +/- 20°F throughout your cook, making it easy to cook your food to perfection.
- The small family design is perfectly sized for small households, featuring 459 sq. in of cooking area for about 4 people.
- The sturdy steel construction with a 2.0 mm thick Stainless Steel Lid reliably retains heat, resists corrosion, and provides excellent durability.
Cons
- The grease tray rusts quickly, which is a known issue.
- The temperature control is alright, but not the best compared to other models.
- The assembly process can be time-consuming.
This pellet smoker is a great investment for anyone looking to smoke their food to perfection. The PID 2.0 technology ensures that your food is cooked to the perfect temperature, and the small family design makes it ideal for smaller households. The sturdy steel construction and thick Stainless Steel Lid ensure that the grill will last for years to come.
The large LCD screen with 2 included meat probes makes it easy to monitor your food, and the hopper cleanout makes it easy to swap pellet flavors. The viewable window allows you to conveniently monitor pellet supply without having to lift the lid, so you can smoke for hours without needing to refill.
Overall, we highly recommend the Z GRILLS 2023 Newest Pellet Grill Smoker for its superior mobility, durability, and ease of use.
5. Traeger Grills Tailgater 20 Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
Traeger Grills Tailgater 20 Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
If you want a portable and versatile pellet smoker, the Traeger Grills Tailgater 20 is a great option.
Pros
- You can grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise or BBQ just about anywhere.
- The Digital Arc Controller maintains a plus/minus 15 degree F temperature control to guarantee precision grilling.
- The EZ fold legs make it easy to transport and store.
Cons
- The grill capacity of 300 sq inches might not be enough for larger gatherings.
- The legs are poorly designed according to some reviews.
- The price might be a bit steep for some people.
We recently got our hands on the Traeger Grills Tailgater 20 Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, and we were impressed with its portability and versatility. The grill is easy to assemble, and the EZ fold legs make it easy to transport and store. We were able to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, or BBQ just about anywhere we wanted, thanks to its portable size and stashable legs.
The Digital Arc Controller is a great feature that maintains a plus/minus 15 degree F temperature control to guarantee precision grilling. We were able to cook our food to perfection, and the temperature range of 180-450 Fahrenheit was perfect for our needs.
One downside of the Traeger Grills Tailgater 20 is that the grill capacity of 300 sq inches might not be enough for larger gatherings. However, we found it to be perfect for our small family gatherings. Another downside is that the legs are poorly designed according to some reviews, but we didn’t experience any issues with them.
Overall, if you’re looking for a portable and versatile pellet smoker, the Traeger Grills Tailgater 20 is a great option. The price might be a bit steep for some people, but we think it’s worth it for the convenience and quality of the grill.
6. TINMIX Pellet Smoker Tube
TINMIX Pellet Smoker Tube
We recommend purchasing the TINMIX Pellet Smoker Tube for its high-capacity and high-efficiency, premium stainless steel material, and compatibility with all grills and smokers.
Pros
- The TINMIX Pellet Smoker Tube is 12 inches in length and has massive density diffusion holes on its main body, producing abundant smoke within five hours.
- Made of thicken 304 stainless steel, the smoker tube is durable, easy to clean, and works well with both wood pellets and chips, adding fantastic smoky flavors to many types of food.
- The TINMIX Pellet Smoker Tube is compatible with electric, gas, charcoal, pellet grills, any type of grills of any size and shape, effectively supplementing smoke in a smoker.
Cons
- The smoker tube does not come with an end cap to keep pellets from falling out if used horizontally.
- The package only includes two hooks.
- The smoker tube may not produce enough heat for some cooking purposes.
We recently tried the TINMIX Pellet Smoker Tube and were impressed with its improved design, featuring special hexagonal smoking tubes that are stable and do not roll on the grill. The perforated design and hexagonal shape of the pipe keep the cartridge in optimum condition and burn fully to provide constant smoke. We also appreciate that the smoker tube is a great present idea and comes with a lifetime guarantee.
In conclusion, the TINMIX Pellet Smoker Tube is a great addition to any grill or smoker, producing abundant smoke and adding fantastic smoky flavors to many types of food, making it a must-have for any barbecue enthusiast.
7. Camp Chef PG24MZG SmokePro Slide Smoker with Fold Down Front Shelf Wood Pellet Grill
Camp Chef PG24MZG SmokePro Slide Smoker with Fold Down Front Shelf Wood Pellet Grill
If you’re looking for a versatile pellet smoker that delivers premium wood-fired flavor, the Camp Chef PG24MZG SmokePro Slide Smoker with Fold Down Front Shelf Wood Pellet Grill is a great option.
Pros
- The slide and grill feature makes it easy to switch between indirect and direct flame modes, giving you more control over your cooking.
- The dual top shelf almost doubles the cooking area, making it perfect for cooking for large groups.
- The patented ash cleanout system makes cleaning between cooks a breeze.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the temperature control, which can be finicky.
- The louvered drip tray can be difficult to clean.
- Some users have reported that the paint on the grill can chip easily.
We’ve used the Camp Chef PG24MZG SmokePro Slide Smoker with Fold Down Front Shelf Wood Pellet Grill for several months now, and we’ve been impressed with its performance. The slide and grill feature is a game-changer, making it easy to switch between indirect and direct flame modes. We’ve used it to grill burgers, smoke brisket, and even bake desserts, and it’s delivered great results every time.
The dual top shelf is a great addition, giving us more cooking space when we need it. We’ve used it to cook two different types of meat at once, and it’s worked out great. Plus, the fact that the shelves are sized to fit in a dishwasher makes cleanup a breeze.
The patented ash cleanout system is another great feature. We love that we can just pull the lever and drop down the used ash, rather than having to take apart the grill and use a shop vac. It’s saved us a lot of time and hassle.
That being said, we have noticed some issues with the temperature control. It can be a bit finicky, and we’ve had to adjust it several times to get the temperature just right. Additionally, the louvered drip tray can be difficult to clean, and we’ve had to spend some extra time scrubbing it to get it completely clean. Finally, we’ve noticed that the paint on the grill can chip easily, which is a bit disappointing.
Overall, we’re happy with the Camp Chef PG24MZG SmokePro Slide Smoker with Fold Down Front Shelf Wood Pellet Grill. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a versatile pellet smoker that delivers great results.
8. Traeger Pro Series 22 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
Traeger Pro Series 22 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
If you’re looking for a versatile wood pellet grill that can handle all your grilling needs, the Traeger Pro Series 22 is the perfect choice.
Pros
- Cooking with wood pellets gives your food a delicious, smoky flavor that you just can’t get with gas or charcoal.
- The Traeger Pro Series 22 offers 6-in-1 versatility, allowing you to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ your food to perfection.
- The Digital Pro Controller with Advanced Grilling Logic maintains a precise temperature control of +/- 15 degrees F, giving you the perfect cooking temperature every time.
Cons
- The Traeger Pro Series 22 is a bit on the heavy side, weighing in at 125.44 pounds, so it may not be the best choice if you need to move your grill around frequently.
- While the porcelain grill grates are easy to clean, they can be a bit fragile, so you’ll need to be careful not to drop them.
- The Traeger Pro Series 22 is not the most affordable wood pellet grill on the market, so it may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget.
We’ve been using the Traeger Pro Series 22 for a while now, and we’re really impressed with its performance. The wood pellet fuel gives our food a delicious smoky flavor that we just can’t get with gas or charcoal grills. We’ve used it to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ a wide variety of foods, and it’s handled everything with ease.
One of the things we really love about the Traeger Pro Series 22 is the Digital Pro Controller with Advanced Grilling Logic. This feature allows us to maintain a precise temperature control of +/- 15 degrees F, giving us the perfect cooking temperature every time. We also appreciate the large cooking capacity, which can accommodate 4 chickens, 5 racks of ribs, or 24 burgers.
While there are a few downsides to the Traeger Pro Series 22, such as its weight and price, we feel that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. Overall, we highly recommend this wood pellet grill to anyone looking for a versatile, high-quality grilling experience.
9. Carpathen Smoke Tube – Pellet Smoker
Carpathen Smoke Tube – Pellet Smoker
If you’re looking for an affordable and efficient way to add a smoky flavor to your food, then the Carpathen Smoke Tube is a great option.
Pros
- The smoking process is easy and accessible to anyone.
- It can be used with any regular cooker without any modification.
- It is made of durable stainless steel material.
Cons
- The leftover ash can make a bit of a mess.
- It works best when full, so it may not be ideal for small smoking sessions.
- It can be difficult to get it lit through the side.
We have been using the Carpathen Smoke Tube for a while now, and we have found it to be a great addition to our grilling setup. It is small and portable, so we can take it anywhere we go.
The smoking process is easy and accessible to anyone, and it can be used with any regular cooker without any modification. We have used it with our Weber Grill, and it has turned it into a cold smoker tube without any issues.
The Carpathen Smoke Tube is made of durable stainless steel material, so it is built to last. It comes in a great gift box, so it is also a great gift for your friends who love to grill.
Overall, we highly recommend the Carpathen Smoke Tube for anyone who wants to add a smoky flavor to their food without spending a lot of money.
10. Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker
Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker
We highly recommend the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker for those looking for a versatile and reliable pellet smoker.
Pros
- The wide temperature range allows for a variety of cooking methods, from baking to char-grilling.
- The pellet grill technology provides the authentic wood-smoked flavor that cannot be achieved with gas or charcoal grills.
- The sturdy steel construction with high-temperature powder coat finish ensures the longevity of the product.
Cons
- The 550 sq in cooking area may not be sufficient for larger gatherings.
- The electric fuel type may not be suitable for those who prefer traditional charcoal or gas grills.
- The assembly process may be time-consuming for some users.
We were impressed with the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker’s ease of use, thanks to its 8-in-1 versatility and upgraded PID controller. The temperature can be easily set, and the smoker does all the work for you. We found the cooking results to be consistently flavorful, thanks to the pellet grill technology.
The product’s sturdy steel construction with a high-temperature powder coat finish ensures that it is built to last, providing years of ultimate wood-fired grilling experience. Additionally, Z GRILLS is a grill manufacturer with over 30 years of experience and provides a 3-year quality assurance for its products, giving us confidence in its reliability.
However, we found the 550 sq in cooking area may not be sufficient for larger gatherings, and the electric fuel type may not be suitable for those who prefer traditional charcoal or gas grills. Additionally, the assembly process may be time-consuming for some users.
Overall, we believe the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker is an excellent investment for those looking for a versatile and reliable pellet smoker.
11. Kingsford Pellet Smoker Tube
Kingsford Pellet Smoker Tube
We highly recommend the Kingsford Pellet Smoker Tube to anyone looking to add a smoky flavor to their food.
Pros
- Turns any grill into a BBQ smoker
- Made from high quality stainless steel
- No lighter fluid needed
Cons
- Both ends fall off all the time
- Disappointed that it didn’t come with a cap to cover the open end of the smoker tube
- Pellets not included
We were impressed with the Kingsford Pellet Smoker Tube’s ability to turn any grill into a smoker. It’s made from high quality stainless steel, which makes it durable and long-lasting. We also appreciated that no lighter fluid was needed to use it.
One downside we found was that both ends of the tube fall off easily. We were also disappointed that it didn’t come with a cap to cover the open end of the smoker tube. Additionally, it’s important to note that the pellets are not included with the tube.
Overall, we enjoyed using the Kingsford Pellet Smoker Tube and would recommend it to anyone looking to add a smoky flavor to their food.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best pellet smoker, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the right product for your needs. Here are some features to look at:
Cooking Area
The cooking area is an essential factor to consider when choosing a pellet smoker. You should consider the number of people you plan to cook for regularly. If you have a large family or entertain frequently, a larger cooking area is essential. On the other hand, a smaller cooking area is sufficient for a small family or occasional use.
Temperature Range
The temperature range is another critical feature to consider. A good pellet smoker should have a wide temperature range to allow you to cook a variety of foods. A temperature range of 180°F to 500°F is ideal.
Hopper Capacity
The hopper capacity is the amount of pellets that the smoker can hold. A larger hopper capacity means less frequent refills, which is convenient. However, a smaller hopper capacity may be sufficient if you plan to use the smoker occasionally.
Ease of Use
A good pellet smoker should be easy to use, even for beginners. Look for a smoker with an intuitive control panel, easy-to-read display, and simple temperature adjustments.
Durability
Durability is another crucial factor to consider when choosing a pellet smoker. Look for a smoker with a sturdy construction, high-quality materials, and a warranty to ensure it lasts for years to come.
Additional Features
Additional features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, programmable cooking settings, and built-in meat probes can make cooking with a pellet smoker even more convenient and enjoyable.
By considering these features, you can choose the best pellet smoker that meets your needs and provides the best cooking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some high-end pellet smokers to consider in 2023?
When it comes to high-end pellet smokers, Traeger, Weber, and Pit Boss are some of the top brands to consider. Traeger offers a range of models with advanced features such as WiFIRE technology, while Weber has a reputation for durability and precision cooking. Pit Boss is known for its large cooking capacity and affordable prices.
What are the pros and cons of Pit Boss Pellet Grills?
One advantage of Pit Boss pellet grills is their affordability compared to other high-end brands. They also have a large cooking capacity and come with features such as digital temperature control. However, some users have reported issues with the build quality and customer service.
What are the benefits of a vertical pellet smoker and which ones are the best?
Vertical pellet smokers are a great option for those who want to smoke their food without taking up too much space. They also tend to have a more even temperature distribution compared to horizontal models. Some of the best vertical pellet smokers on the market include the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX, Pit Boss Vertical Pellet Smoker, and Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050.
What sets Weber Pellet Smokers apart from other brands?
Weber Pellet Smokers are known for their durability and precision cooking. They also offer a range of models with advanced features such as WiFIRE technology and SmokeBoost. Weber has a reputation for quality and customer service, making them a reliable choice for those in the market for a pellet smoker.
Where can I find unbiased reviews of pellet grills, and what should I look for?
There are several websites that offer unbiased reviews of pellet grills, including Consumer Reports, AmazingRibs.com, and BBQGuys.com. When looking for reviews, it’s important to consider factors such as cooking performance, build quality, and ease of use.
What factors should I consider when choosing a reliable pellet smoker?
When choosing a pellet smoker, it’s important to consider factors such as cooking capacity, temperature range, build quality, and ease of use. You should also consider any additional features that may be important to you, such as Wi-Fi connectivity or smoke control. Ultimately, the best pellet smoker for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.