If you’re gearing up to buy your first pellet grill (or maybe you’re a seasoned pitmaster looking to add another toy to your arsenal), this guide is here to help you find some of the best pellet grills on the market. Over the last decade or so, pellet grills have surged in popularity — and for good reason! I especially love using mine for smoking meats like my Smoked Boneless Beef Short Ribs. 

To begin with, wood pellet grills (AKA pellet grills or pellet smokers ) are among my favorite types of grills. Specifically, they let you smoke, grill, and bake over a wood fire in one versatile unit. Plus, they’re pretty easy to use once you get the hang of it — especially if you pair it with one of the Best Wireless Meat Thermometers.

Ahead, you can check out my top picks for the best pellet grills, including my all-time favorite from Woodwind. Check them out, as well as and some of my tips and tricks for yummy meats, sides, and more, below.

My Top Picks: 

1. My Favorite Pellet Grill: Woodwind Pro 36 – $1,499.99 at Amazon
2. Also Great: Grilla Grills Silverbac All-Terrain – $1,099 at Grilla Grills
3. Best Pellet Grill for the Money: Pit Boss 820D3 Mahogany – $649 at Pit Boss
4. Best Splurge Pellet Grill: Rec Tec Flagship 1100 – $1,299 at Amazon
5. Best Portable Pellet Grill: Z Grills Cruiser – $297.44 at Amazon

Reviews of The Best Pellet Grills

1. My Favorite Pellet Grill: Woodwind Pro 36

When it comes to pellet grills, the Woodwind Pro 36 from Camp Chef is my go-to for several reasons: It boasts a durable stainless steel design that feels professional, holds up against heat, and protects against rust and corrosion. I’ve owned this model for over three years and use it two to three times a week! 

While WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, I’m a big fan of the tech capabilities featured here. It has a WiFi-enabled controller which helps regulate smoke and temperature, so you can control exactly how much smoke you incorporate into your cook just by selecting a smoke number. The app is easy to use since you can set timers with push notifications, view data from past cooks, label your probes, and select the type of meat you’re cooking.

The grill itself has four ports for probes, and the built-in firebox is fun because you can add charcoal or whole wood chunks to completely change the flavor and function of the smoke produced. In lieu of a chimney, the Pro also features two adjustable exhaust dampers.

It’s perfect for the seasoned pit master looking for convenience while adding top-notch wood smoke flavor, but beginners can master this grill, too! It’s definitely a splurge, but totally worth it! 

The Specs:

• Wifi/Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes
• Primary Cooking Surface Area: 648 square inches 
• Dimensions: 26 x 50 x 44.5 inches
• Hopper Size: 22 pounds
• Temperature Range: 160°F to 500°F

What I Like:

• WiFi connectivity with a full-color screen
• App is easy to use
• Customizable real wood-fired flavor
• Solid build
• Option to add a smoke box

What I Don’t Like:

• No front shelf option 
• Split upper cooking grate 
• Smokebox gets hot

Buy the Woodwind Pro 36:

2. Also Great: Grilla Grills Silverbac All-Terrain

The Grilla Grills Silverbac All-Terrain has a quality, 14-gauge stainless steel build to withstand harsh environments and large rubber wheels that deliver competition-style BBQ, regardless of where you move it. 

The WiFi-enabled controller allows you to use the app to start or stop it from anywhere. You can also monitor the temperature and get help if you’re having any problems. I noted that the ability to monitor the included meat probe comes in handy, and I didn’t have any connectivity issues while testing it. While it holds temperatures within a degree or two in PID (Proportional, Integral, Derivative) mode, I highly suggest switching the controller to PRO mode because it consistently holds temperatures within 10 degrees. The PRO mode also allows the smoker a little more wiggle room in its temperature control logic, which tunes into more temperature swings. 

In terms of its design, it has a pellet dump for quick pellet changes, and a grease can holder instead of the standard bucket usually found with grills. It’s nice that you can get an empty can, fill it with grease, and throw it away without having to make a mess, but you have to tweak it to get it to fit just right.

The Specs:

• Wifi/Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes
• Primary Cooking Surface Area: 507 square inches
• Dimensions: 30 x 47 x 53 inches
• Hopper Size: 20 pounds
• Temperature Range: 180°F to 500°F

What I Like:

• Easy to use 
• Great results
• High-quality build
• Cart and wheels make it easy to move
• Comes with a grease can holder

What I Don’t Like:

• Getting the grease collector to fit can be a bit of a hassle
• Front shelf is not included

Buy the Grilla Grills Silverbac AT:

3. Best Pellet Grill for the Money: Pit Boss 820D3 Mahogany

When you consider its features, decent build quality, and affordable price point, the Pit Boss 820D3 Mahogany is the best Pit Boss pellet grill on the market and an excellent bang for the buck. I’ve tested similar grills in this price range, and each one felt thin, light, and a little flimsy, but that’s definitely not the case here. 

This Pit Boss grill has a thick steel construction with a heavy-duty powder coating, which makes it feel like an absolute tank — in testing, I didn’t have a single hiccup during an entire 14-hour cook! It managed to keep an extremely stable temperature on its 849 square inches of cooking space on its top-quality porcelain-coated cast iron grates. 

One standout feature is the “P Setting.” This feature increases the time between pellet cycles, allowing for finer control over the amount of smoke and heat the grill produces when the controller is set to “Smoke.”

The Specs:

• Wifi/Bluetooth Connectivity: No
• Primary Cooking Surface Area: 849 square inches
• Dimensions: 28 x 53 x 49 inches
• Hopper Size: 21 pounds
• Temperature Range: 180°F to 500°F 

What I Like:

• Affordable
• Solid built-in shelving
• Beautiful finish
• Large cooking area

What I Don’t Like:

• Heavy
• Cleanup can be hard

Buy the Pit Boss 820D3 Mahogany:

4. Best Splurge Pellet Grill: Rec Tec Flagship 1100 

If you’re a barbecue aficionado on the hunt for a high-performance pellet grill, then the RecTec Flagship 1100 might just be your new best friend. 

One of the standout features is its advanced PID temperature control system, which I loved when I was trying it out. This technology maintains a consistent temperature within a 5-degree range, which is crucial for achieving perfect results every time. The grill also features a digital control panel that allows for precise temperature adjustments, making it easy to switch between smoking, roasting, and grilling.

The Specs:

• Wifi/Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes
• Primary Cooking Surface Area: 11,250 total square inches
• Dimensions: 25 x 50 x 48 inches
• Hopper Size: 40 pounds
• Temperature Range: 180°F to 700°F

What I Like:

• Push-start button
• Constructed with high-quality components
• 40 hours of non-stop cooking 
• Massive front shelf

What I Don’t Like:

• Sharp edges
• No pellet cleanout

Buy the Rec Tec RT-2500 BF:

5. Best Portable Pellet Grill: Z Grills Cruiser

This compact yet powerful pellet grill stands out for its ability to deliver deliciously smoked meats on the go, whether you’re tailgating, camping, or just having a backyard barbecue. 

Using this grill is a pleasant experience since it’s simplicity wrapped in a small package. With its 202-square-inch cooking surface, you’re not going to feed an army, but it should be fine for 2 to 4 people, depending on what you’re grilling (I recommend my Smoked Pork Carnitas). The large, 8-pound hopper detracts a little from the experience here, but it provides enough fuel to set it and forget it for hours.

Its compact size makes it perfect for those with limited space, but don’t let its dimensions fool you: This grill is built with high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting. The sturdy legs and wheels ensure that it’s both stable and mobile, allowing you to transport it from spot to spot. If you’re looking for a grill that’s easy to move and delivers fantastic results, then the Cruiser is definitely worth considering. 

The Specs:

• Wifi/Bluetooth Connectivity: No
• Primary Cooking Surface Area: 202 inches
• Dimensions: 30 x 22 x 33 inches
• Hopper Size: 8 pounds
• Temperature Range: 180°F to 450°F

What I Like:

• Affordable
• Compact size
• Easy to move 
• Sturdy design

What I Don’t Like:

• No food probe
• No cord wrap

Buy the Z Grills CRUISER 200A:

Other Pellet Grills to Consider

Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill

Despite coming from a reputable brand for kitchen appliances, there are two major drawbacks with this model: When I tested it, within the first half hour of a reverse-sear cook, the steaks were completely coated in a dark brown color. The smoke sticks heavily to the outside of the meat, but doesn’t integrate any of that rich flavor. It’s also just a hair too small to accommodate a rack of St. Louis cut spare ribs, so for me, it wasn’t worth the almost-$500 price tag. The Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill is available for $459.60 at Ninja.

Z Grills Backyard Warrior 7002C2E

This model has a spacious 700-square-inch cooking area, and its 20-pound pellet hopper allows for extended cooking sessions without needing to refill it too often. The digital control board also makes temperature management straightforward, though some users report minor fluctuations. Additionally, its heavy construction makes it really heavy and hard to align. The Z Grills Backyard Warrior 7002C2E is available for $819 at Z Grills.

ASMOKE AS350 Portable Pellet Grill

The ASMOKE AS350 pellet smoker has some notable features but falls short in key areas. Move to the left and you’ll find the pellet hopper, which unfortunately only holds 4 pounds, so half the size of many competitors. The ash pan also fills up quickly, and the controller struggles with maintaining precise temperatures in the small cooking area. While it has potential, these drawbacks make it hard for the AS350 to stand out in a crowded market. The ASMOKE AS350 Portable Pellet Grill is available for $349.99 at ASMOKE.

Why You Can Trust Us

Hi, I’m Susie, and I’m the brain behind Hey Grill Hey! I have a passion for smoked and barbecued meats and developing fun, new recipes to help people make better BBQ. Since 2015, I’ve created more than 550 recipes that millions of people cook with, which has made the site synonymous with amazing BBQ. I’ve even cooked turkeys with Shaquille O’Neal, and I have a few Guinness World Records under my belt!

To create my list of the best pellet grills, I took a few key factors into consideration, budget, functionality, and durability. I also only recommended options that I’ve tested and loved from trusted brands like WoodWind and Pit Boss. 

What to Know About Pellet Grills

Things to Consider When Choosing a Pellet Grill

When choosing a pellet grill, the features that matter the most depend on your cooking style and preferences. All the models I’ve highlighted come packed with top-notch features, so you get the best grilling experience. When picking my top recommendations, I focused on:

• Grill size: You’ll want more space than you think. Consider how much area you need for your usual gatherings and recipes and how many people you’re typically cooking for.

• Ease of cleaning: Look for an ash or pellet dump cleanout system to make maintenance a breeze and keep your grill running smoothly.

• Build quality and customer support: Opt for a grill with durable construction and reliable customer service. A well-built grill and good support can make a huge difference in your grilling experience.

Many pellet grills come with handy features, too, but in my personal opinion, here’s what you may want to skimp out on: 

• Built-in thermometer: These can often be faulty. Instead, pick up one of my picks for the [Best Wireless Meat Thermometer] for more accurate readings.

• Bluetooth-enabled controllers: You’ll probably enjoy the novelty at first, but they often become less useful over time.

• Gimmicky accessories: You don’t need extras like a bottle opener or a built-in cutting board that’s hard to clean. Stick to the essentials for a great grilling experience.

What is a Pellet Grill and How Does It Work?

Pellet grills, also known as pellet smokers, blend the best features of a gas grill, charcoal smoker, oven, and a classic fire pit. They operate by feeding wood pellets through an auger into a fire pot, where the pellets are ignited. As they burn, they create a perfect mix of smoke and heat in the cooking chamber, giving your food that mouthwatering flavor. 

With digital controls, you can set your desired temperature precisely while the auger continuously replenishes the fire pot with pellets to ensure a steady, consistent heat throughout your cook.

Can You Use a Pellet Grill for Pulled Pork? 

Absolutely! A pellet grill is perfect for making pulled pork. The low and slow cooking process that pellet grills offer is ideal for breaking down the tough fibers in pork shoulder, resulting in tender, flavorful pulled pork. Choose a wood pellet flavor that compliments pork, such as hickory, apple, or cherry, as the pellets will provide a delicious smoky flavor.

There are tons of great pulled pork recipes on my site, like Carolina Pulled Pork with a classic American BBQ taste, a zippy Buffalo Smoked Pulled Pork, or the crowd-pleasing Smoked Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese.

How to Smoke a Brisket on a Pellet Grill

I LOVE beef brisket. It might be one of my favorite cuts of beef to eat and the most rewarding to smoke! The process of smoking a full brisket can take anywhere from 12 to 16 hours, but believe me when I say it is completely worth it.

Here’s a brief overview of what to do:

1. Trim your brisket using my guide
2. Preheat your smoker using hardwoods like oak and cherry
3. Season your brisket (I recommend my homemade Brisket Rub) 
4. Smoke your brisket using 3 consistent hours of the same temperature and smoke
5. While optional, I recommend spritzing your brisket for the next 5 to 7 hours for a juicy, flavorful end product
6. Wrap your brisket in some butcher paper and keep it going! You’ll want to smoke it for another 4 to 6 hours or until your internal thermometer reads 200°F 
7. Rest your brisket for an hour
8. Dig in!

How to Smoke Ribs on a Pellet Grill

Smoking ribs on a pellet grill is a great way to achieve tender, flavorful ribs with a perfect smoky flavor. In reality, the hardest part will be deciding which recipe on my site to try first!

How to Smoke a Turkey on a Pellet Grill

It’s easy to perfect a Smoked Turkey Breast on a pellet grill! My recipe is incredibly flavorful and juicy, with the cider brine and sweet-savory rub coming together to create a turkey breast that’s perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion.

After bringing your turkey breast for 4 to 6 hours and preheating your smoker to 275°F, you’ll then want to remove your turkey, pat dry, and season it. From there, you’ll place the turkey breast on the smoker, close the lid, and smoke it for around 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. When you remove it, make sure to cover it in foil and let it rest for 5 minutes.

How to Clean a Pellet Grill

Properly cleaning your pellet grill is key to maintaining its performance and extending its lifespan. Subsequently, after smoking up some delicious meats, your grill will need a bit of TLC. Therefore, make sure to give it a quick clean after each use — specifically, brush the grates and empty the grease tray to keep everything in top shape.

For a more thorough clean, aim for a deep clean every few months or after heavy use to prevent icky build-up. Start from the top then work your way down: Remove everything, including the grates, drip pan, and deflector plate. Use a putty knife and a nylon scrubber to tackle the gunk, then grab a wet/dry vacuum to suck up all the loose debris.

If you want more tips and tricks on how to deep clean your grill and get it ready for your next big cookout, then check out my guided video.

My Favorite Pellet Grill Recipes Recipes

If you’re looking for a comprehensive post all about the best meats to smoke, then you’ll definitely want to check out my Best Meats to Smoke guide on all the meats you can master smoking in a pellet smoker. 

Once you’ve picked out the best pellet smoker for you and a great [wireless meat thermometer], you’ll be ready to roll! 

Try your hand at a few of my favorite recipes:

• Texas Style Smoked Beef Brisket
• Best Brisket Burnt Ends
• Smoked Chicken Thighs
• Fireball Peach Smoked Ribs

Prices were accurate at the time of publication.