If you want the smoky flavor of a wood smoker but don’t want to deal with the hassle of constantly tending a fire, a wood pellet grill is a game-changer. These grills let you enjoy that rich, wood-fired taste with the convenience of a “set-it-and-forget-it” system. They don’t need propane or natural gas—just plug them in, load up the pellets, and let them do the work.
Wood pellet grills are perfect for smoking because they burn consistently and give food a deep, smoky flavor without the guesswork. Unlike wood chips, which burn up fast and require constant refilling, pellets provide a steady stream of clean smoke.
The best pellet grill for you depends on what flavors you like, what kind of food you’re cooking, and whether you want to mix different woods or stick to one. We’ve rounded up some great options from brands we trust—grills we’ve actually tested.
Below, you’ll find picks in different sizes, plus some with cool features like WiFi control, portability, and solid warranties. Keep reading for our top recommendations and tips on what to look for when buying a pellet grill.
What’s a Wood Pellet Grill?
A wood pellet grill is basically a smoker and a convection oven combined, but without all the hassle of constantly adjusting the heat. Instead of using charcoal or gas, it burns small, compressed wood pellets, which give food that deep, smoky flavor you’d get from traditional barbecue.
What makes it easy to use is the built-in thermostat and auger system. The grill feeds pellets into the fire as needed to keep the temperature steady, so you don’t have to keep checking it. Whether you’re slow-smoking brisket or searing a steak, it handles the hard work for you while still delivering that real wood-fired taste.
List Of 5 Best Wood Pellet Grill Reviews
1. Traeger TFB57GZEO Pro Series 575 Grill
After spending plenty of time with the Traeger Pro Series 575, I can confidently say it's a game-changer if you're serious about wood pellet grilling. Traeger has been a big name in the pellet grill world for years, and while some folks love to debate whether they still hold the top spot, the 2019 upgrades make a strong case for this model. One of the biggest improvements is the WiFIRE technology, which lets me monitor and control the grill straight from my phone. That means no more hovering over the grill for hours—I can check temps from the couch or even while running errands. Plus, the updated D2 Direct Drive system makes a noticeable difference in heat-up time and maintaining steady temperatures, something that older Traeger models sometimes struggled with.
The cooking space is generous, with options for either 575 or 780 square inches, so you can pick what suits your needs without overpaying. I went with the 575, and it's been more than enough for weekend cookouts. If you’re feeding a bigger crowd regularly, the larger size might be worth it. The only downside? Like most pellet grills, it does take some time to preheat compared to a gas grill. But once it’s up and running, the consistent heat and rich wood-fired flavor make it worth the wait.
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2. PIT BOSS PB440D2 Wood Pellet Grill
The PIT BOSS PB440D2 caught my eye because it promised the perfect balance of durability, performance, and affordability—and it has mostly lived up to the hype. First off, the mahogany finish and stainless steel build give it a solid, high-quality feel. This thing isn’t flimsy, and I appreciate that it’s built to handle years of use. One of my favorite things about it is the large 465-square-inch cooking surface, which gives me plenty of space to smoke a brisket or grill up a batch of burgers. The ability to switch between direct and indirect heat adds another layer of versatility, allowing for both low-and-slow smoking and high-heat searing when needed.
Setting it up was pretty straightforward, and the LED display and digital control board make it easy to keep an eye on temperatures. I also love the mobility—those two large wheels make moving it around my patio effortless. That said, I did run into a couple of minor issues. The temperature control isn’t always as precise as I’d like, and I’ve noticed some fluctuations that require adjustments. Also, the pellet hopper isn’t the largest, so I find myself refilling it more often than I’d like. But considering the price point, it’s still a solid performer that delivers authentic wood-fired flavor without breaking the bank.
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3. Z Grills Wood Pellet Grill Smoker with 2020 Newest Digital Controls
I’ll admit, I was a little skeptical about Z Grills at first since they’re a relatively new name, but after learning they’ve been making grills for other brands for decades, I decided to give this one a shot. And I’m glad I did. The build quality is solid, with a stainless steel body that feels durable and a cooking area that’s big enough to handle just about anything. With 504 square inches of cooking space and a 20-pound hopper capacity, it’s well-equipped for long smoking sessions without constant refills.
What really sets this one apart is the updated digital controls. The LCD readout makes monitoring temps a breeze, and the automatic pellet feed system means I don’t have to constantly babysit it. The temperature range from 180°F to 450°F gives me flexibility, whether I’m slow-smoking ribs or cranking up the heat for a quick sear. Cleanup is another area where this grill shines—reviewers weren’t kidding about the dust collector making things easier. The only thing I wish it had was a slightly faster startup time, but once it gets going, it’s reliable and produces great results. Plus, the included grill cover is a nice touch!
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4. Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill
As someone who takes outdoor cooking seriously, the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX quickly became one of my favorites. It’s packed with features that make grilling and smoking easier, starting with the automatic pellet feed that keeps things running smoothly without constant adjustments. The ash cleanout system is a total game-changer—no more digging around the burn pot after every cook. Just pull the lever, and the ash dumps out. That alone makes it stand out from most competitors in this price range.
One of the other standout features is the auto shut-off, which means I can set it up in the morning and not stress about rushing back to turn it off. It holds temperature well, and I haven’t had any jamming issues with the auger, which is something I’ve run into with other pellet grills. While it doesn’t have WiFi like the Traeger Pro, the digital temperature controls are accurate, and I don’t mind checking in on it manually. For the price, it’s hard to find a pellet grill that delivers this level of performance and convenience.
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5. Traeger Grills TFB30KLF Tailgater 20 Portable Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
After using the Traeger Tailgater for several months, I can say it’s been a great companion for camping trips and small backyard gatherings. The compact design makes it easy to transport, but it still has enough space to handle a decent amount of food. With 300 square inches of cooking space, I can fit a few steaks or a rack of ribs without issue. The Digital Arc controller keeps the temperature steady, and the Keep Warm Mode is a lifesaver when I’m juggling multiple dishes.
That said, it does have a couple of quirks. The folding legs can be a bit of a hassle, and I usually need an extra pair of hands to get them set up properly. I’ve also noticed some slight temperature fluctuations during longer cooks, which means I have to keep an eye on it more than I would with a full-sized Traeger. But overall, it delivers that signature wood-fired flavor in a portable package, making it a solid option for tailgating, camping, or small patios where space is limited.
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Benefits of Wood Pellet Grill
Buying Guide For Best Wood Pellet Grill
A good wood pellet grill gives you a ton of cooking flexibility. You can go low and slow for tender ribs, brisket, or pork shoulder, or you can smoke delicate foods like salmon, trout, and even vegetables. Some people also use them for fresh sausages or charcuterie meats, giving them that perfect smoky flavor. Whole chickens—especially spatchcocked ones—turn out fantastic in a pellet grill too.
Before you buy one, here are some key things to consider:
Quality Construction
A pellet grill is an investment, so you want one that’ll last. Since they have moving parts and require occasional cleaning, look for heavy-gauge steel and a sturdy build. Avoid anything that feels flimsy.
Check the lid-to-body connection—there should be a tight seal to keep the heat and smoke locked in. Also, inspect the welds and attachment points to make sure they’re strong. The firepot and heat diffuser can wear out over time, so durable materials like stainless steel help extend the grill’s lifespan.
Some grills use painted steel, while others have stainless steel exteriors. Stainless steel looks sleek, but it can drive up the price without necessarily adding performance benefits.
Controllers
If the firepot and auger are the heart of a pellet grill, the controller is the brain. Different grills come with different control systems:
- Three-Position Controllers (LMH): Basic models with Low, Medium, and High settings (roughly 225°F, 325°F, and 425°F).
- Multi-Position Controllers: Let you adjust the temperature in 25-degree increments, sometimes with a digital display.
- One-Touch Controllers: Allow precise temperature control in 5-10 degree increments. Usually digital and automated.
- PID Controllers: Use advanced software to maintain steady temps, even if the weather changes. Great for long smoking sessions. Some even have built-in probes that adjust the grill temp based on your food’s internal temperature.
For extra convenience, some PID controllers have WiFi connectivity, letting you monitor and adjust your grill remotely via an app.
Size and Cooking Area
Think about your available outdoor space and how much food you typically cook. If you like to smoke whole briskets, turkeys, or racks of ribs, you’ll need enough space to keep food from touching the edges of the lid (which can cause uneven cooking).
For most families, 450-500 square inches of cooking space is plenty. If you only cook for yourself or a small group, a compact model may work better. Some grills also have secondary racks for warming sides or smoking additional food.
Extra Features
Sear Box: Some pellet grills come with a side burner or sear box, often powered by propane or electricity. This is great for getting a nice crust on steaks or crisping up chicken skin after smoking.
Drip Tray: A removable drip tray catches excess grease and marinades. Look for a sturdy one—flimsy trays are prone to spilling. Lining it with heavy-duty foil makes cleanup easier.
Water Pan: Adding a water pan helps retain moisture, which is especially useful for lean meats and certain veggies. Some people even use apple cider or broth in the pan to enhance flavors. If you plan to use acidic liquids, go with stainless steel since aluminum can react with them.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wood pellet grill for you and your family is a big decision. You’ll want to consider your budget, warranty options, and any must-have features to find the best fit. Luckily, with all the information above—plus the list of top-rated models—you should have an easier time making the right choice.
One important tip: Only use food-grade wood pellets for grilling and smoking. Heating pellets are meant for stoves and aren’t safe for cooking.
Also, when you open a new bag of pellets, don’t soak them like you would with wood chips—pellets are ready to use as they are. Before each cook, check for any signs of mold or moisture, and give them a quick stir with your tongs to make sure they’re in good shape.
Hopefully, this guide helps you find a pellet grill that suits your needs and makes outdoor cooking even more enjoyable!
