Best Pellet Smoker

10 Best Pellet Smokers In 2022 (Never Suck In Grilling Again!)

The best pellet smokers are considered as the prized possession of every pitmaster out there. These are the very devices that can't be superseded by any technological advancements in cookery. They are old-fashioned, but their ability to create sumptuous and succulent meat delicacies is genuinely a cut above the rest.

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Of course, it is entirely natural if people are still seeking these pellet smokers. As long as backyard grilling is still a thing, these smokers will not be evicted from the mind of barbecue lovers. In fact, the market of these pellet smokers is quite big, especially if you are in the United States. Every holiday and special occasion always feature these devices.

If you are planning to invest in these pellet smokers, you ought to know all the top choices. And in that matter, let me tell that you are in the right place on the internet. In here, I've listed all the smoking-hot options for high-quality pellet smokers. Here they are!

Name

Picture

Rating

Traeger TFB42LZBC Grills Lil Tex Elite 22 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker - Grill, Smoke, Bake, Roast, Braise, and BBQ (Bronze)
Traeger Grills TFB65LZBC Texas Elite 34 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, 646 Sq. In. Cooking Capacity, Bronze
Camp Chef Woodwind Pellet Grill with Sear Box - Smart Smoke Technology - Ash Cleanout System (Woodwind SG)
Memphis Grills Elite Wood Fire Pellet Smoker Grill with Wi-Fi (VG0002S), Freestanding, 304 Stainless Steel Alloy
Louisiana Grills LG-001000-1750 WH-1750 Country Smoker Whole Hog
Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill - Bronze
Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett Pellet Grill – WIFI enabled
Cookshack PG500 Fast Eddy's Pellet Grill
Z GRILLS ZPG-7002ENC 2019 New Model Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, 8 in 1 BBQ Grill Auto Temperature Control, 700 sq inch Cooking Area, Silver NO Cover
Country Smokers CSPEL015010497 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, Black
Traeger TFB42LZBC Grills Lil Tex Elite 22 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker - Grill, Smoke, Bake, Roast, Braise, and BBQ (Bronze)

Those who are aiming for pellet smokers that don't run on charcoal and gas should seriously consider getting the Traeger Lil Tex Elite 22. This one is touted as among the most ergonomic smokers out there due to its efficiency in smoking meat products.

This one smokes through the use of wood, which undeniably produces better and tastier results. With a wood-operated pellet smoker, you can also experiment with different flavors and scents. You will achieve the quintessential taste of grilled meat and barbecue.

The versatility of this smoker is out of the world. It has a cooking setting that can be adjusted from low and slow and hot and fast. Furthermore, it has other configurations as well, which allows you to get the delectable results that you want. It can smoke, roast, braise, bake, grill, and barbecue every meat that you insert there.

With the presence of a digital controller, you can guarantee that you have total control over the internal temperature of the smoker. The increments are precise, too, as the adjustments can be made in +/- 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Overall, the consistency of the Traeger Lil Tex Elite 22 made it an exceptional pellet smoker. It can heat with stability and reliability so that you will not have overcooked or under-cooked products. It offers even smoking as well so that you can achieve equal cooking results. Meanwhile, the grilling space of this device is quite spacious. Specifically, it can fit Traeger up to sixteen burgers or four whole chickens!

  • Cooking surface: 418 Square Inches
  • Controller: Digital
  • Pellet Capacity: 18 Pounds
  • Warranty: 3-Year Warranty

PROS

  • Offers a pellet capacity of 18 pounds
  • Digital temperature controller to ensure accurate cooking
  • Offers heating stability throughout extended periods
  • Utilize wood and not other fuel sources
  • Comes with different cooking configurations.

CONS

  • No known issues.
Traeger Grills TFB65LZBC Texas Elite 34 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, 646 Sq. In. Cooking Capacity, Bronze

Sure enough, the brand Traeger is a manufacturer of high-quality pellet smokers. Aside from the Lil Tex Elite 22, they also have the Texas Elite 34, which is considered a step higher than the first pellet smoker. The capacity of this unit is bigger than the Lil Tex Elite 22 as well. It can fit up to thirty burgers of fiver large whole size chickens with ease.

It has a nice cooking platform, too. The grills and any other surface have non-stick properties. No chunk of meat will be left clinging on this smoker.

Also, it has to be taken into account that the Traeger Texas Elite 34 offers stable and consistent heating. If you set the device on a particular temperature, it will maintain it for as long as you want. It is not the same as other smoker pellets that tend to increase or decrease their heat outputs.

With this pellet smoker, you can get the desired juiciness and deliciousness that you want. Just like its cousin, the Traeger Texas Elite 34 has six cooking configurations. From braising, roasting, down to grilling, it is well-capable.

The structure of this pellet smoker is downright amazing. The durable steel construction and powder coat finish make it a reliable option for outdoor uses. Meanwhile, its porcelain grill grates are easy to clean. The legs are sturdy and capable of handling uneven terrains. Also, the bottom of the legs is outfitted with easy-to-glide casters so that you can move this burly smoking device with ease.

  • Cooking surface: 646 Square Inches
  • Controller: Digital
  • Pellet Capacity: 18 Pounds
  • Warranty: 3-Year Warranty

PROS

  • Durable and element-resistant construction
  • Heats quickly and evenly
  • Provides large cooking space
  • Temperature control is extremely precise
  • Excels in cold weather.

CONS

  • Assembly process can take time.
Camp Chef Woodwind Pellet Grill with Sear Box - Smart Smoke Technology - Ash Cleanout System (Woodwind SG)

Certainly, there are pellet grills out there that will not harm your bank accounts. Just because you want a sumptuous time in the yard with your family and friends, it doesn't really mean that you have to spend big. There are grills in the entry-level market that can provide a kind of satisfaction that you are looking for high-end smokers.

A good example of this is the Camp Chef Woodwind Pellet Grill. By far, this unit is among the cheapest pellet smokers that I stumbled upon. But it never lacked the features and functions that are needed for making juicy barbecues.

This item is using the Smart Smoke Technology of Camp Chef. The latter is a proprietary temperature controller that ensures accuracy and consistency in heating. It also comes with an automatic auger that feeds pellets to the grill for better heat retention. These components also provide that the grill can produce the right amount of smoke so that you can achieve a heavenly perfection to your grilled meat.

Furthermore, it is considerably versatile as well. It can smoke, bake, and grill without any problem.

The temperature range that this pellet smoker can offer is 160 degrees Fahrenheit to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Such a capability ensures that there is a myriad of cooking procedures that you can do with this grill. All of them will yield you with authentic wood-fired flavor that can leave anyone's mouth drooling. Moreover, adjusting the temperature is pretty easy. It offers small increments so that you can achieve your desired temperature.

  • Cooking surface: 811 Square Inches
  • Controller: Digital
  • Pellet Capacity: 18 Pounds
  • Warranty: 3-Year Warranty

PROS

  • Comes with an ash removing system
  • Features a wide temperature range
  • Can maintain heat for extended periods
  • Offers a cooking surface of 811 square inches
  • Includes the slide and grill technology.

CONS

  • Does not produce an adequate amount of smoke.
Memphis Grills Elite Wood Fire Pellet Smoker Grill with Wi-Fi (VG0002S), Freestanding, 304 Stainless Steel Alloy

Many were quite hesitant when it comes to the Memphis Grills Elite Wood Fire Pellet Smoker Grill. After all, it has a construction that is way different than conventional pellet smokers. But when it proved its performance, a lot became enthusiastic about it.

Specifically, this device offers the innovative combination of various improvements and technologies available for pellet smokers. As a result, it became one of the most highly advanced pellet smokers today.

This one features a heavy-duty 304 stainless steel construction that is almost unrivalled in strength and durability. Despite being pricey, this unit guarantees that it can last long in service--making it a very cost-efficient choice. Meanwhile, its nickel-plated steel cooking grates offer the right grilling platform without being too sticky. It generates a cooking surface that is conducive for smoking and other cooking methods that you can do in the grill.

Moreover, this pellet smoker has a dual-wall firebox design to trap and insulate the heat fully. Coupled with an oven-quality gasket, the Memphis Grills Elite Wood Fire Pellet Smoker Grill provides a tightly sealed cooking area. Grilling allows you to achieve exceptional results when it comes to producing delectable grilled recipes.

Also, it is notable that this unit has been integrated with a hopper that can extend its cooking time for up to 62 hours. Controlling this device is not difficult either. It can be done without you being near to it, thanks to its WiFi controller.

  • Cooking surface: 844 Square Inches
  • Controller: Digital (With Wi-Fi Capability)
  • Pellet Capacity: 24 Pounds
  • Warranty: 7-Year Warranty

PROS

  • Comes with a large and non-stick cooking surface
  • Heat adjustment is from 180 degrees Fahrenheit to 700 degrees Fahrenheit
  • High-capacity hopper maximizes the cooking time of this pellet smoker
  • Extremely durable; built to last long
  • Allows you to monitor its internal temperature.

CONS

  • No known issues.
Louisiana Grills LG-001000-1750 WH-1750 Country Smoker Whole Hog

Now, if some of you are looking for extremely large pellet smokers, then I would not hesitate to recommend this unit from the Louisiana Grills. The WH-1750 Country Smoker is considerably one of the largest pellet grills that I ever used. It has a cooking surface of 1,700 square inches, which is almost triple to size compared to standard pellet smokers out there.

It is an ideal choice if you are going to have a barbecue party with a large group. For day-long parties and outdoor getaways, bringing this unit would be a really nice idea!

Another exceptional feature about this pellet smoker is the availability of numerous burners. To achieve equal results in cooking, each side of the smoker has been outfitted with burners.

Furthermore, the sides also come with independent and extremely large hoppers. With them around, the cooking time of this unit can run for several days straight without losing any consistency in the heat and temperatures. You can also remove its partition if you are planning to smoke an entire hog on it. The latter is a testament to the actual capacity of this grill.

Of course, this unit does not only boast its size. It also flaunts the way it has been constructed. The grill has been made from 14-gauge steel construction, which makes it extremely tough and outdoor worthy. It can last for a long time.

Thanks to its powder coating, it is resistant to rust and corrosion. Its design also allows enhanced heat retention. And to make your food a lot tastier, this particular grill has been imbibed with the proprietary Arched Flavor Guard.

  • Cooking surface: 1700 Square Inches
  • Controller: Digital
  • Pellet Capacity: 24 Pounds
  • Warranty: 5-Year Warranty

PROS

  • Can control and maintain heat properly
  • Capable of smoking a whole hog
  • Durable and weather-proof construction
  • Features independent burners to achieve equally grilled meat
  • Offers flexibility in temperature adjustments.

CONS

  • It will require a large vehicle to haul this one.
Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill - Bronze

I always consider the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill is a premium choice, given that it has exceptional construction and capability. This pellet smoker is particularly large. It has 570 square inches of cooking space that you can use to grill and smoke a variety of meat products. It also includes a proprietary ash cleanout system that prevents difficulties in cleaning the device.

Meanwhile, the efficiency of this unit when it comes to smoking and grilling is definitely fantastic. It has impressive internal insulation to ensure that heat won't escape from the smoker.

Aside from that, the temperature control of this pellet grill allows sustained heat for extended periods. You don't need to configure its temperature from time to time, as a result. Once you have adjusted the temperature setting, the smoker will do the rest.

It is notable as well that the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill is seemingly designed for everyone. It doesn't require an experienced pitmaster to operate it. Suitable proof of that is the presence of its electronic auto-start ignition. Aside from that, it also comes with dual-LED indicators that tell you both the food temperature and cooking temperature. That feature alone ensures that all your grilled goods will be cooked to perfection. Also, let me tell you that its auger automatically dispenses pellets when it's needed.

  • Cooking surface: 570 Square Inches
  • Controller: Digital
  • Pellet Capacity: 18 Pounds
  • Warranty: 3-Year Warranty

PROS

  • Simple yet effective internal temperature control
  • Autoignition system for hassle-free usage
  • Offers a moderately large, non-stick cooking surface
  • Comes with intuitive ash cleanout system
  • Ensures flexibility in temperature adjustments.

CONS

  • Accuracy in temperature readouts may not be consistent all the time.
Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett Pellet Grill – WIFI enabled

Sometimes, people want a portable pellet smoker--and that's completely understandable. After all, much of these barbecue parties are better enjoyed in an outdoor setting. And when I say outdoors, I refer to places that are not your backyard. So, if you have your truck, you better get a portable pellet smoker because it will get the job done. When it comes to portable smokers, I do suggest that you get Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett Pellet Grill.

This one is far from the ordinary. It is not something that you can consider typical. And there's a lot of reasons for that. First, it is a fully digital pellet smoker. It features a digital WiFi controller that runs on Android and iOS devices. The controller allows the user to monitor and configure the setting of the grill even if you are far from it.

Second, it has a highly ergonomic meat probe that ensures that your meat is smoked correctly. Third, it has proprietary Sense-Mate technology. The latter is a thermal sensor that offers accurate measurements to the internal temperature of the grill.

The Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett Pellet Grill can run on 120AC or 12-volt power source. Therefore, there's an assurance that wherever you take it, the smoker can be operated seamlessly. It can work for tailgating, boating, and even back-country expeditions. Also, this pellet smoker only weighs 57 pounds, which is considerably light already. It has foldable legs, too, which simplifies the way you transport it.

  • Cooking surface: 219 Square Inches
  • Controller: Digital (With Wi-Fi Capability)
  • Pellet Capacity: 9 Pounds
  • Warranty: 3-Year Warranty

PROS

  • Perfect for outdoor uses
  • Fully digital controls and interface
  • Comes with unmatched portability
  • Integrated with ergonomic utensil trays
  • Lightweight but durable.

CONS

  • Temperature setting is not accurate.
Cookshack PG500 Fast Eddy's Pellet Grill

This one may not be as commercially popular as other pellet smokers out there. But this doesn't mean that it has a substandard quality. After all, many pitmasters already recommended the Cookshack PG500 Fast Eddy's Pellet Grill for smoking and grilling needs.

One of the most riveting aspects of this unit is its pure stainless steel construction. It is extremely tough and minimized the assembly needed before you can operate it. Even the grates are made from the same material as well. Not only it is tough, but it also offers optimized heat retention.

The cooking space of this pellet grill is quite ample as well. With a grill area of 784 square inches, you will have no problems of fitting large quantities of meat here. Specifically, this device offers 10 inches x 18 inches of space for direct grilling and another 10 inches x 28 inches rack for indirect cooking. There is also a warming drawer integrated into the body of this unit, which makes it a genuine complete set. It can handle all your barbecue recipes while ensuring that you will not run out of space.

Just like some of the pellet smokers here, the Cookshack PG500 Fast Eddy's Pellet Grill offers a digital interface. The temperature controller is automated so that your work is reduced. It has intuitive temperature gauges as well. Because the heat it produces is controlled electronically, this device is not susceptible to heat fluctuations. Of course, you'll be happy to hear that because it means your meat won't dry and shrink. Also, keep in mind that this item has auto-ignition and draft fan.

  • Cooking surface: 784 Square Inches
  • Controller: Digital
  • Pellet Capacity: 23 Pounds
  • Warranty: 3-Year Warranty

PROS

  • Provides quick and consistent heating
  • Not susceptible to temperature fluctuation
  • Comes with separate grills for indirect and direct cooking
  • Heat retention is impeccable
  • Most controls and interface are electronically configured already.

CONS

  • No known issues.
Z GRILLS ZPG-7002ENC 2019 New Model Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, 8 in 1 BBQ Grill Auto Temperature Control, 700 sq inch Cooking Area, Silver NO Cover

The Z GRILLS has something to offer as well. Their 2019 Model of the ZPG-7002ENC is truly attention-grabbing. It has a solid construction, impressive heat retention, and foolproof usability. It is perfect for casual smoking during weekends or for actual grilling demonstrations.

This 8-in-1 pellet smoker has all that it takes to create every grilled delicacy in your mind. It can smoke, bake, sear, roast, braise, char-grill, grill, and barbecue without any issues. With these given qualities, nobody would ever complain if pitmasters label the Z GRILLS ZPG-7002ENC as one of the best pellet smokers out there.

There are numerous innovative features embedded in the system of this device. Among the most notable is the fan-forced convection cooking system. The latter vanquishes the need for a rotisserie, which in turn, maximizes the flexibility of this pellet smoker for grilling, smoking, and roasting purposes.

Furthermore, its temperature and pellet control system has been upgraded as well. Compared to the previous model of this device, the digital control board is already equipped with auto-ignition. Its temperature range has been expanded, too.

An automated electric feed system ensures that the pellet smoker can maintain your specified heat setting. It also helps in the production of smoke, which is important in achieving an authentic barbecue flavor. Some pellet smokers lack the capability to create these flavor-inducing fumes. Also, the smoker is the one that will do the work for you. All you need to do is to wait until your delicacies are already done! You are not required to babysit the Z GRILLS ZPG-7002ENC!

  • Cooking surface: 700 Square Inches
  • Controller: Digital
  • Pellet Capacity: 20 Pounds
  • Warranty: 3-Year Warranty

PROS

  • Most of its functions are already digitally automated
  • Capable of making optimal levels of smoke
  • Offers a large cooking space
  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Retains heat for extended periods.

CONS

  • The legs and wheels appear to be flimsy.
Country Smokers CSPEL015010497 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, Black

Are you looking for a simple pellet smoker? Then you should consider this opus from the Country Smokers. Specifically, Country Smokers Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker has an exceptional construction despite being an entry-level value.

It is compact, sleek, and ergonomic. It is a highly portable grilling machine that you can take anywhere you want. Furthermore, it has unquestionable durability, thanks to its full steel construction with black sand finish. It is impervious to the elements, too.

Surprisingly, this device is pretty versatile, as well. It can do a variety of cooking techniques such as searing and baking. It is not just a grill-and-smoke type of pellet smoker. With that being said, you can expect that this unit can satisfy your intricate preferences in flavor. And even if you are far from home, it will always give you results that don't disappoint at all.

The hopper of the Country Smokers Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker can hold up to 5 pounds hardwood pellets. It is more than enough to sustain hours of grilling and smoking. Of course, it is pretty given that it's cooking surface is not as generous as other units that I featured here. But considering that it is a portable unit, its 256-square inch grill is more than enough to create all your favorite meals. It is also essential to note that it is heating temperature ranges from 180 degrees Fahrenheit to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Cooking surface: 256 Square Inches
  • Controller: Digital
  • Pellet Capacity: 8 Pounds
  • Warranty: 3-Year Warranty

PROS

  • The portable construction makes it the perfect choice for outdoor picnics and parties
  • Ensures decent heat retention
  • Can sustain long hours of grilling and smoking
  • Durable and can resist corrosion and rust
  • Simple and user-friendly controls.

CONS

  • Limited cooking surface.

Guidelines In Choosing The Best Pellet Smoker

Guidelines In Choosing The Best Pellet Smoker

You have already seen the finest options for pellet smokers. But in hindsight, you can say that's not enough. As an enthusiast of barbecues and grills, it is crucial that you know how to pick the right machine that can help you achieve authentic backyard flavors. While it is true that your skill and proficiency as a pitmaster count, it is still undeniable that the utilities you use can affect the overall taste of the goods you cooked.

At this point, there's no need to get embarrassed. Everybody has to start somewhere, after all.

Construction And Overall Quality

Before you hit the market, you need to keep in mind that these pellet smokers are nowhere near the word "cheap." They are expensive devices because their construction is far from simple.

Of course, that should motivate you in the selection process. You want to bring home something that is tough and can last long. Any flimsy unit is quite unacceptable. Don't ever settle for less.

The first thing that you need to assess is its weight. If the pellet smoker is quite light, then there's a good chance that light materials are used on it. If that's the case, leave the smoker alone. You don't need grilling devices that have flimsy construction because we are talking about high levels of heat here. If you feel the weight of the pellet smoker, then there's a good chance that it has been crafted from heavy-duty materials.

Next, you need to check the layout of the pellet smoker. Probe and see if there are any gaps in the grilling area. Those tiny holes can actually affect the efficiency of the smoker, especially in creating evenly cooked results. When grilling, it is vital that heat can be maintained at all cost. If the heat and smoke can escape, then you will not get the delicacy that you are expecting.

Don't forget to check the overall hardware and welding. Make sure that all parts are attached properly. If you feel that some joints are loose, then there's a probability that the pellet smoker is not capable of extensive grilling and smoking applications.

Also, always be keen on the material that has been used in the construction of the pellet smoker. Today, most of the grills and meat smokers are made from heavy-gauge steel. The steel could either be painted or coated so that it can retain heat properly. Without these treatments, the steel will be exposed to the elements that cause rust, abrasion, and corrosion. You can try pellet smokers that are made from stainless steel. But be careful; they are quite expensive.

Check out this video that explains the advantages of pellet smokers:


Temperature

Pitmasters will always emphasize the importance of having the right temperature when you are grilling. It is something that you have to get right to ensure that you can get your desired output. There is an ideal temperature for smoking, cooking, and baking. The same is true with roasting and braising.

Now, it is not completely necessary that a pellet smoker can do all these cooking techniques. However, there's nothing wrong if people want to have flexibility whenever they are preparing their food.

Having an adjustable temperature setting can maximize your versatility on the grill. The higher the range of adjustment that you can make, the more recipes you can create. That's how things work, not only for pellet smokers but to other grilling devices as well.

Pellet smokers that offer a maximum heating capacity of 500 degrees Fahrenheit to 700 degrees Fahrenheit can be considered as treasures. They are excellent platforms where you can do fire baking and sear frying!


Cooking Area

Size does matter, especially to pellet smokers.

But don't get me wrong. There's no correct size in this matter. The ideal dimensions of the pellet smoker are the very dimensions that could satisfy your needs.

For instance, if you are always partying with your extended family and relatives, will a small pellet smoker can handle all your orders? I am pretty sure that it could not. And even if it could, it will take time before everyone can have their fill. On the flip side, if you are going on a trip or tailgate picnic, you only need a portable unit. There's no need to carry a full-size grill in your trunk because it is wholly impractical and arduous.

In here, I want you to visualize why you want a pellet smoker in the first place. Of course, on the surface, you want this machine because you want to experience the taste of authentic grilled and smoked meat. But if you dig deeper, you will realize that your purpose differs from mine, from your neighbor, or your friend. You have a specific requirement to a pellet smoker, and that should dictate your preferred size of the pellet smoker and its cooking area.

Which Brand Is The Best On The Market

There are a handful of commercial pellet smoker manufacturers in the world today. Perhaps it is one of the reasons why some experience hesitation and dilemma whenever they are shopping for pellet smokers. After all, we tend to be biased when it comes to brand. We think that some brands are superior to others.

At some point, such an assumption can be accepted. There are pellet smoker brands out there that use proprietary technology in building their opuses. And so, it makes them more ergonomic and intuitive than the rest of the competition. But most of the time, it is still argued that the quality of a brand is always subjected to personal preferences.

When it comes to pellet smokers and grills, extolling a particular name is quite a difficult thing to do. Throughout my years of experience with these devices, I came to learn that they are made to be distinct and unique. The variation of their features is not proof that some are bad while others are good. A lot of people say that Traeger is a superior maker of pellet smokers. However, with the recent changes in their manufacturing and operation, a significant number of pitmasters is already shifting to brands like Louisiana, Pit Boss, Camp Chef, and Memphis Grils.

Each of these brands can be considered as notable already. They are in the competition for the past decades already. Every year, they make improvements to their pellet smokers, which is a good thing. Whichever you choose, you can guarantee that they can provide a succulent experience to you! 

7 Questions About Pellet Grills Answered

Q: How does a pellet grill work?

A: Basically, the pellet grill is the combination of a grill and a smoker. It is designed to perform the capabilities of these two devices without the need to go to expensive restaurants. Interestingly, they are mostly used for backyard cooking and tailgate picnics.

As its name suggests, the pellet grill uses wood pellets as its fuel. It doesn't use propane or charcoal briquettes, which are among the most conventional fuel for most grills today. Wood pellets do vary. And depending on their variation, a different scent or feel to the meat.

Before we discuss the mechanism of the pellet grill, it is necessary that you know its components first. Here are they:

  • A pellet grill is composed of different parts. The first one is the hopper. The latter is the storage or container of the pellets that you are going to use for grilling.
  • On the side or front of the hopper, you can spot a digital controller. Most of the controllers of pellet smokers today are already digital to aid in the provision of convenience. Of course, these controllers function as a thermostat so that the internal temperature of the grill will be controlled and monitored.
  • Covered by the lid of the grill is the main grate. Usually, these manufacturers use cast iron on their grates because it is sturdy and can withstand the heat better than steel.
  • Other parts of a pellet grill that contribute to its performance are the following: heat shield, grease tray, chimney, bucket, firebox, and the ignition system.

Now, the mechanism of a pellet grill is easy. It is one of the reasons why a lot of people can use it even if they don't have prior experience in smoking or grilling. This device cooks your food through heat and not fire. The hopper has to be filled with wood pellets of your choice because it will serve as the fuel that will keep the heat running.

When the grill is running, the digital controller plays an important role already. It allows you to set the cooking time and the temperature that you want your food to be cooked. A lot of people opt for the low and slow setting because it produces the juiciest of meat! Meanwhile, the ignition of pellet grills varies from one model to another. Some have automatic electric ignition, while others require you to add the flame manually.

Meanwhile, the role of the auger is to move the pellets from the pellet hopper and transfer it to the firebox. The movement of the pellets enables the creation of the smoke and heat, which in turn, grills your meat into perfection. Pellet grills have fans, which should help in the circulation of smoke and air inside.

Q: Are pellet grills better than charcoal and gas?

A: There are qualms when it comes to pellet grills. People who were so used in charcoal and gas grills tend to develop a sense of skepticism about this particular grilling device. Of course, that's completely understandable. After all, adapting to new cooking techniques and utilities is not that easy--even for an aficionado.

Let me give you a breakdown.

Charcoal Grill

The charcoal grill vis commonly seen as the Holy Grail of grilling. It is the oldest item used in grilling and smoking food. When people say that barbecues or grilled meat have an "authentic" taste, this probably refers to the way that these delicacies have been cooked. And guess what? They are indirectly referring to charcoal grills. Charcoal grills are somehow versatile as you can use different lump charcoal or charcoal briquettes as their fuel.

However, the downside of a charcoal grill is that it requires practice. You need to be familiar with their operation as well as the little nuances that can make the difference between a good result and a bad one. Furthermore, they tend to be slower, too, compared to our pellet grills.

Gas Grill

Another type of grill that is commonly pitted against pellet grills is the gas grill. Many households in the United States today have this device. The common design of a gas grill resembles a cart for portability. However, there are models in which allow you to integrate them into an outdoor or indoor cooking area.

When it comes to speed, a gas grill is faster than charcoal grills. They offer more control, too, as they are often integrated with digital controls. Overall, if you are going to compare it to a charcoal grill, it is undeniable that the gas grill is more user-friendly. It can make you an instant pitmaster because of the ergonomics that it can provide.

However, gas grills have downsides, too. Some people think that they are costly to operate as they will require you to have a constant source of natural gas and liquid propane. If you are planning to cook for extended periods, then you should already hoard a lot of these gases already. Otherwise, your cooking would be impeded.

Pellet Grill

With all these given contentions, many people think if pellet grills can live up to the authentic flavor that charcoal grills can produce or to the efficiency of gas grills. The simple answer to these questions is a big yes.

When it comes to flavor, pellet grills are as real as they get. The use of wood pellets is proof of that. These pellets can create and induce authentic grilled taste and scent to the meat. Furthermore, using different pellet varieties can alter the kind of flavor and appeal that your food can get. It doesn't rely on gas to grill your meat, after all.

Furthermore, pellet grills these days are ergonomic and intuitive. The best ones have digital controllers and electric ignition to improve their usability. There are thermostats as well for you to be able to monitor and control the temperature of the grill. You can make a lot of adjustments to their internal temperature so that you can achieve your desired results.

Are pellet grills better than charcoal and gas grills? Maybe yes. Maybe no. Your preferences do count here. But given the capabilities of a pellet grill, you should really check it out.

Q: Are pellet grills healthy?

A: I forgot to mention that one of the reasons why people like pellet grills is because of their supposed health advantage. Compared to gas and charcoal grills, it is said that pellet grills are safer to use. Of course, we have to acknowledge the fact that gas and charcoal are also blamed by some individuals to be one of the main culprits of cancer?

So can we say already that pellet grills are the healthier choice?

Well, to some extent, we can confirm such a claim. The simple reason for this is the fuel that has been used on these grills. Pellet grills use food-grade wood pellets to produce heat and smoke. Of course, wood pellets do not contain chemicals and elements that can pose health risks. Gas, propane, and charcoal, on the other hand, are found to cause deleterious to the health of the human body.

But of course, you would not avoid the risk if you are not using the right kind of wood pellet. There are wood pellets out there that are used for convection cooking and searing. They are the ones that can actually burn the meat and cause unnecessary amounts of smoke that can cause some respiratory problems. Specifically, you need to avoid stove pellets because they are not the same as the pellets that are utilized in pellet grills.

You would know if it is a food-grade pellet if it is taken from lumber mill scrap, sticks, wood chips, and sawdust. All of these components do not contain any harmful content, so that is practically safe to be used for cooking purposes.

Q: Is Traeger better than Pit Boss?

A: Both Traeger and Pit Boss are considered to be top manufacturers of pellet grills on the market today. In fact, many buyers today tend to hop between these brands whenever they are choosing for their next pellet grills.

However, there is an on-going notion that Traeger is the better manufacturer in the market. But for me, that's a subjective claim and doesn't provide any conclusive evidence as to the performance of their respective grills. But this time, allow me to give my take about these two manufacturers when they are placed side by side.

  • If you want an excellent value to your money, you should get Pit Boss pellet grills. They are considerably cheaper than Traeger. If the older models of these brands will be measured against each other, I deem that Traeger units will have the upper hand. Of course, I made this judgment based on the overall ergonomics, functionality, and features that Traeger and Pitboss offer. However, let me emphasize that this deduction of mine is still subjective. It is not an indirect assertion that Pit Boss is a lesser brand.
  • One should know that Traeger used to be manufactured in the U.S. But as of now, most of their operations are already transferred in China. If you have qualms on products that are made in China, you need to go with Pit Boss.
  • When it comes to warranty, Pit Boss made an update. From the standard three-year warranty, Pit Boss extended it to five. That's a big thing, especially for consumers who want to get the most out of their money.
  • Design-wise, Both Traeger and Pit Boss have different takes on their grill. One of the most noticeable differences between the two is their heat distribution system. All of the Traeger grills have their fire pots on the side while Pit Boss is in the center. It allows the latter to include an open slit system, which pitmasters can use for open-flame grilling.

Q: Can you grill on a pellet smoker?

A: Of course! It is on the name already. You see, pellet smokers and pellet grills are just the same. These terms are used interchangeably from time to time, which inadvertently caused confusion to people. But they are just the same, actually. Therefore, grilling and smoking are all possible on this device. Aside from these two, there are various cooking methods that can be done on a pellet grill. Most modern pellet grills today have default adjustment settings for a myriad of cooking styles on the grill.

Q: Can you use wood chips in a pellet smoker?

A: While it is true that wood chips sound like a good substitute for wood pellets, they are really not. I don't recommend using these wood chips because the hopper and auger of the pellet smokers are designed only for these wooden pellets. Keep in mind that these pellets have a compressed and compact structure. Because of such traits, these pellets can burn efficiently inside the pellet grill. If you would use wood chips, the same performance will never be achieved. Furthermore, you are risking the quality of the food that you are smoking or grilling.

Therefore, whenever you are using a pellet smoker, make sure that you have a lot of wooden pellets at your disposal. Do not ever use other alternative fuels because they are not actually useful.

Q: Do pellet grills need electricity?

A: The fuel source of pellet grills is wood pellets. But this doesn't mean that you can already operate the grill even without electricity. Keep in mind that the grill has other components that require electricity to function. Such of these are the thermostat, digital controls, fans, and augers. You will never be able to use the grill without a constant power source.

Bottom Line

It is indeed a blissful feeling if you know that you have the best pellet smoker in your garage. It opens you to a whole new world of cooking. In the past, you just dream of having a sumptuous backyard grilling.

But now that you have the chance to seize this unit, all these drooling desires would be relinquished. You just need to choose the right pellet smoker, and you are good to go. And right now, I am quite confident that I have given you the best that the market can offer.

That's it for now. If you have questions, feel free to drop them in the comment section below.

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