Summer is the season for gathering around the grill, and for those who love deep, smoky flavor, a pellet smoker is a game-changer. These versatile outdoor cookers combine the convenience of a set-and-forget appliance with the authentic taste of wood-fired barbecue. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned pitmaster, the right pellet grill can make smoking brisket, ribs, and poultry surprisingly simple and consistently delicious.
With so many models and features on the market, choosing the best one can be a challenge. To help you find the perfect match for your backyard, we’ve compiled a selection of top-rated pellet smokers and essential accessories. This roundup focuses on key factors like cooking space, temperature control, durability, and special features to consider for your summer cooking projects.
Top Pellet Smokers and Grill Accessories
- Pit Boss PB440D2 Wood Pellet Grill, 440 SERIES
- Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker with 552 Cooking Area
- Traeger Grills Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
- Traeger Grills Pro 575 Wood Pellet Grill with Wifi
- Z GRILLS ZPG-7002B Upgrade Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
- Digital Control Board for Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett
- Camp Chef PG24XT Smoke Pro Pellet Grill and Smoker
- Temperature Meat Probe Replacement for Rec tec Grills
- Cuisinart Pellet Grill Igniter-Fits Most Models
- Pit Boss 700FB Pellet Grill
Pit Boss PB440D2 Wood Pellet Grill, 440 SERIES
The Pit Boss 440 Series is a solid entry point into pellet grilling, offering a generous 518 square inches of cooking space in a compact footprint. This capacity is ample for preparing meals for a family or a small gathering. The porcelain-coated steel cooking grates are designed for durability and make for easier cleaning after your cookout is finished.
This model provides the essential benefits of a pellet grill: consistent heat and wood-fired flavor with straightforward operation. It’s built to handle a variety of cooking styles, from low-and-slow smoking to higher-temperature grilling. For those seeking a reliable and spacious grill without a complex setup, the PB440D2 is a practical choice.
Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker with 552 Cooking Area
Z GRILLS offers a feature-rich pellet grill that emphasizes ease of use and smart design. The smart digital controller allows you to set your desired temperature with a simple dial, and the automated system works to maintain it within a close range. This takes the guesswork out of managing your fire, letting you concentrate on your recipes.
Beyond the cooking area, this grill includes thoughtful additions like a front table and a bottom shelf for keeping tools and ingredients organized and within reach. The sturdy steel construction with a powder-coat finish is made to withstand the elements, promising long-term use for your outdoor kitchen.
Traeger Grills Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
The Traeger Pro 22 is a classic model known for its 6-in-1 versatility, functioning as a grill, smoker, bake oven, roaster, braiser, and barbecue. This flexibility means it can be used for everything from smoked ribs to freshly baked pizza, all infused with authentic wood-fired flavor. Its 572 square inch grilling capacity provides plenty of room for multiple items.
Precise temperature control is a key feature, managed by the Digital Pro Controller which aims to keep heat within a tight range. The build quality includes a stable sawhorse chassis, large wheels for mobility, and porcelain-coated grates, making it a durable and user-friendly centerpiece for any patio.
Traeger Grills Pro 575 Wood Pellet Grill with Wifi
For the tech-savvy cook, the Traeger Pro 575 adds the convenience of WiFIRE technology. This allows you to monitor and control the grill’s temperature remotely from your smartphone via the Traeger app. You can adjust settings, set timers, and receive alerts, giving you freedom away from the grill without losing control over your cook.
It includes an integrated meat probe for monitoring food temperature without opening the lid, which helps maintain a consistent cooking environment. The D2 direct drive system is engineered for reliable temperature consistency, whether you’re smoking at a low temperature or searing at high heat.
Z GRILLS ZPG-7002B Upgrade Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
This upgraded Z GRILLS model boasts an expansive 700 square inches of cooking space and promotes an impressive 8-in-1 cooking capability. It is designed to be a comprehensive outdoor cooking appliance, handling tasks from smoking and grilling to baking and searing. The large surface area is ideal for entertaining larger groups.
Ease of use is central to its design, with a simple start-up process and an automated system that works to maintain your preset temperature with minimal fluctuation. This consistency helps produce optimal smoke and heat for reliable results, making the cooking process more accessible for all skill levels.
Digital Control Board for Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett
This product is a replacement digital PID control board with WiFi capability, designed specifically for Green Mountain Grills’ Davy Crockett Prime and Trek models. It serves as an upgrade or replacement part, bringing enhanced digital control and connectivity to compatible portable grills. The inclusion of WiFi allows for remote monitoring through a connected app.
The board features a port for a meat probe to monitor food temperature and works with the grill’s existing Sense-Mate thermal sensor to regulate grill temperature precisely. For owners of these specific GMG models, this part can restore or modernize the functionality of their pellet grill.
Camp Chef PG24XT Smoke Pro Pellet Grill and Smoker
Camp Chef’s PG24XT focuses on smart simplicity and easy maintenance. Its digital control system automatically feeds pellets to maintain your chosen temperature, creating a true “set it and forget it” experience. The temperature range from 160°F to 500°F covers everything from delicate smoking to high-heat grilling.
A standout feature is the patented Ash Cleanout system, which simplifies cleanup dramatically by allowing you to remove ash with the pull of a lever. This grill also includes a stainless steel meat probe, adding to the convenience for long smoking sessions where monitoring internal food temperature is critical.
Temperature Meat Probe Replacement for Rec tec Grills
This is a two-pack of replacement meat probes designed for compatibility with a wide range of Rec tec (Recteq) pellet grill models. Accurate temperature monitoring is essential for perfect results, and these probes are crafted from food-grade stainless steel for durability and safety. They are engineered to provide fast and precise readings.
The package includes probe clip holders, which help secure the probes in your meat for consistent and reliable monitoring throughout the cooking process. For Rec tec grill owners needing to replace original equipment or add an extra probe, this set offers a direct-compatibility solution.
Cuisinart Pellet Grill Igniter-Fits Most Models
This is a replacement hot rod igniter for various Cuisinart pellet grill models. The igniter is a critical component that heats up to ignite the wood pellets in the burn pot, starting the grilling process. If your grill fails to light, a worn-out igniter is a common cause.
Compatible with several Cuisinart series including the Bristol, Clermont, and Oakmont, this part can help restore your grill to working order. Its 30-inch insulated wire lead is designed for a proper connection, making it a practical repair solution for DIY-minded grill owners.
Pit Boss 700FB Pellet Grill
The Pit Boss 700FB is a pellet grill model known for offering substantial cooking capacity, typically around 700 square inches. This makes it suitable for cooks who regularly host larger parties or like to prepare multiple dishes at once. Pit Boss grills are generally recognized for providing good value and robust performance.
While specific features for this model are not detailed here, Pit Boss grills often include digital controls, versatile temperature ranges, and durable construction. For those interested in this particular model, further research into its specific controls, hopper size, and included features is recommended to see if it meets your needs.
How to Choose a Pellet Smoker for Smoking Meats This Summer
If you’re thinking about smoking meats this summer, a pellet grill is a fantastic way to get that wood-fired flavor without babysitting a fire all day. But with so many options, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. I’ve been through it, and I can tell you it comes down to a few key things you should consider before you buy.
First, think about size. How much are you planning to cook at once? If you mostly cook for a small family, a compact model with around 500 square inches of cooking space might be perfect. But if you host big gatherings or want to smoke multiple racks of ribs or a whole packer brisket, you’ll want to look at larger grills, often called “pro” or “premium” models, with 700+ square inches. Remember, the listed size is total grate area; some models have upper racks that add useful extra space for smaller items.
Next, consider construction and temperature range. You want something built to last. Look for thick, stainless steel or heavy-gauge steel construction, especially in the cooking chamber and lid. A good lid seal is critical for maintaining steady temperature and smoke. For temperature, most pellet grills smoke well between 180°F and 250°F, but a wide range (say, 180°F to 500°F or more) gives you versatility. That high-end heat lets you sear a steak after you smoke it, essentially making the grill an all-in-one outdoor cooker.
Finally, pay attention to the hopper size and tech features. The hopper holds the wood pellets. A larger hopper means you can run longer cooks without refilling—a must for a 16-hour brisket. For tech, many grills now offer digital PID controllers that hold temperature within a few degrees, and some even have Wi-Fi connectivity. Wi-Fi lets you monitor and adjust the grill’s temp from your phone, which is a game-changer for long cooks. You’re not tied to the backyard all day. When you’re ready to start smoking meats this summer, balancing these factors—size, build quality, and features—with your budget will lead you to the right pellet smoker for your needs.
FAQ
Are pellet grills actually good for smoking?
Absolutely. While they are different from traditional offset stick burners, pellet grills produce excellent smoke flavor and are incredibly consistent. They use real wood pellets, so you get authentic taste. The main advantage is their “set-it-and-forget-it” nature. You get the flavor of wood-fired barbecue without needing to manage a live fire constantly, which is perfect for beginners and veterans who want an easier cook.
What kind of maintenance do pellet smokers require?
They are relatively low-maintenance but need regular care to perform well. After every few cooks, you should vacuum out the ash from the fire pot and the bottom of the cook chamber. It’s also a good idea to clean the grease tray and drip bucket to prevent flare-ups. Every few months, give the temperature probe a wipe. A little routine cleaning goes a long way in preventing temperature swings and extending the life of your grill.
Can I use any brand of wood pellets in my smoker?
You can, but I recommend using high-quality, food-grade pellets with minimal fillers. Some cheaper pellets use oils and binders that can leave more ash and impart odd flavors. It’s generally safe to use any major brand, but many grill manufacturers suggest using their pellets to ensure optimal performance. In reality, brands like Bear Mountain, Lumber Jack, and CookinPellets are highly regarded across many different grill models.
Do pellet grills use a lot of electricity?
Not really. The main electrical draw is from the auger (which feeds pellets) and the fan. It’s comparable to a small kitchen appliance. During the initial startup, it might draw more power to ignite the pellets, but once at temperature, it cycles on and off to maintain heat. You’ll need a standard outdoor outlet, and the total cost to run it for a long cook is usually just a few cents.
How do I get a stronger smoke flavor from my pellet grill?
Since pellet grills are very efficient and clean-burning, the smoke can be lighter than a heavy, smoldering offset smoker. To get more flavor, always cook at lower temperatures (between 180°F and 225°F) for the first few hours when the meat is most receptive to smoke. You can also use pellet tubes or trays—small, perforated metal tubes you fill with pellets and light separately—to add extra smoke throughout the cook, which is a popular trick.