Best 6 Pellet Smokers 2024: Ultimate Picks

by Matt

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Are you looking to elevate your grilling experience? Explore the best pellet grills of 2024. Whether you're a seasoned pit master, or just starting out this post will assist you in selecting the pellet smoker for your barbecue needs. Pellet grills offer more, than cooking; they simplify the process of attaining that smoky taste in your backyard. Lets get into my favorite grills of 2024!

Grilla Silverbac All-Terrain Alpha

The Grilla Grills Silverbac All-Terrain stands out for those who love tech as much as they love BBQ. It's equipped with advanced WiFi capabilities, allowing you to control your smoker from virtually anywhere.

Effortless Remote Management

  • Control Anywhere: Adjust temperatures and monitor the cooking process via the dedicated app, making it perfect for managing your grill from afar, even overnight.
  • Reliable Connectivity: The smoker operates optimally with a strong 2.4 GHz WiFi signal. For larger outdoor areas, adding a WiFi extender might be necessary to ensure uninterrupted service.
  • Simplified App Interaction: The user-friendly app minimizes errors, making it easy to modify settings without disrupting your cook.
Grilla Grills Silverbac All-Terrain wood pellet smoker on a sturdy frame with all-terrain wheels.
Silverbac All-Terrain wood pellet grill with Alpha Connect WiFi technology, large all-terrain wheels, and spacious cooking area, designed for versatile outdoor cooking and durability.

Precision and Versatility

  • Robust Build: Features like a stainless steel lid, burn pot, and durable internal components underline its quality construction.
  • Large Cooking Area: Offers 692 square inches of cooking space, allowing you to smoke everything from multiple briskets to burgers simultaneously.
  • Innovative Controls: Includes unique features like the Alpha Smoke and Pro Modes, enhancing flavor through precise temperature adjustments.

Pros and Cons of the Silverbac Alpha Connect

Pros:

  1. Full control from your smartphone enhances the convenience of smoking.
  2. Precise temperature management for perfect smoking every time.
  3. Easy-to-use app interface.

Cons:

  1. Dependence on a stable WiFi connection.
  2. Potential initial learning curve for new users.

Take Your BBQ to the Next Level

Discover how the Grilla Silverbac can transform your grilling experience—visit Grilla Grills for more information.

Traeger Ironwood Series

The Traeger Ironwood series stands at the forefront of pellet grill technology, offering an unparalleled blend of high-quality performance and user-friendly features. This series is ideal for both newcomers and seasoned grill enthusiasts, striking an excellent balance between sophisticated technology and intuitive operation.

Effortless Assembly and Advanced Features

  • Quick Setup: The Ironwood grills are designed for easy assembly, featuring straightforward instructions and minimal parts, enabling a smooth transition from unboxing to grilling.
  • Generous Cooking Capacity: With up to 885 square inches of cooking space and a 20-pound pellet hopper, the Ironwood series is equipped to handle large meals effortlessly, complete with smart alerts for pellet replenishment.
Sleek Traeger Ironwood 885 pellet grill with digital control panel, sturdy legs, and caster wheels for easy movement.
Traeger Ironwood 885 grill with an open lid, showcasing its ample cooking space and advanced digital control system.

Superior Cooking Precision

  • Consistent Heat Distribution: Known for maintaining stable temperatures essential for both high-heat searing and low-and-slow baking, the Ironwood series ensures every meal is cooked to perfection.
  • Robust Construction: The series boasts a fully insulated hood and a larger pellet hopper, enhancing both efficiency and ease of use.

Innovative User Interface

  • Touchscreen Control: The Ironwood series features a full-color digital touchscreen that simplifies cooking adjustments and monitoring, complemented by a user-friendly app for remote control.

With its premium build and thoughtful features, the Traeger Ironwood series is not just a purchase but a long-term investment in your culinary adventures, promising reliability and ease for years to come. Visit Traeger Grills for more information

Pit Boss Sportman 820 Pellet Grill

The Pit Boss Sportsman 820 stands out in the pellet smoker market with its spacious cooking area and versatile capabilities. Its 820 square inches of cooking surface provide ample space to accommodate large meals, perfect for any gathering.

Exceptional Features and Build Quality

  • Substantial Hopper Capacity: Equipped with a 21-pound hopper, the Sportsman 820 allows for extended smoking sessions, minimizing the need for frequent pellet refills.
  • Precision Temperature Control: Featuring an innovative flame broiler, the grill adapts seamlessly from searing steaks to smoking briskets, offering remarkable versatility and ease of use.
  • Durable Construction: The robust build of the Sportsman 820 ensures it can withstand frequent use and various weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for any BBQ enthusiast.
Compact Pit Boss Sportsman 820 pellet grill with advanced controls and ample cooking space for efficient outdoor grilling.
Open Pit Boss Sportsman 820 pellet grill highlighting its spacious interior and precision control panel.

Enhanced Usability and Performance

  • Digital Control Board: While it lacks WiFi, the digital control board simplifies temperature adjustments, helping you achieve perfect cooking results.
  • Efficient Assembly: The grill is designed for straightforward assembly, reducing setup time and getting you grilling sooner.

With its strong build and advanced features, the Pit Boss Sportsman 820 is more than just a grill—it's an investment in enhancing your outdoor cooking experiences.

For more detailed information head on over to Pit Boss and see what they have on offer.

Pit Boss 440 Deluxe 

The Pit Boss Mahogany 440 Deluxe is a standout in the pellet smoker market, offering a perfect blend of style and functionality. Designed for versatility, this grill caters to both intimate family dinners and larger gatherings with its robust build and sleek aesthetics.

Optimal Cooking Space and Performance

  • Generous Surface: Features 465 square inches of cooking space, allowing for simultaneous smoking and grilling of various meats.
  • Elegant Design: Its mahogany finish not only enhances the visual appeal but also makes it a focal point of patio conversations.
Pit Boss Mahogany 440 Deluxe Pellet Grill with digital controls, Flame Broiler Lever, and a side shelf, on a durable steel frame with wheels for mobility.
Pit Boss Mahogany 440 Deluxe Wood Pellet Grill showing pellet hopper and digital control panel, with stainless steel side shelf and Flame Broiler feature.

Advanced Temperature Control

  • Consistent Heat: The digital temperature control maintains precise heat levels, ensuring even cooking and perfect smoke flavors without the risk of under or overcooking.

Practical Considerations

  • Hopper Capacity: With a 5-pound hopper, refills may be necessary during longer cooking sessions, which could be a minor inconvenience for uninterrupted cooking.

Overall Value

  • Accessible and Reliable: Ideal for both novices and experienced grillers, the Mahogany 440 Deluxe offers a balance of quality and price, making it a competitive option in the sub-$600 category.

This grill promises to elevate your outdoor cooking experience, combining efficient performance with striking design to suit all your smoking needs. To add this great budget pellet grill to your collection head on over to Pit Boss and check it out

Grilla Chimp Tailgater WiFi

Exploring portable pellet smokers reveals the Grilla Chimp Tailgater as a standout, ingeniously blending mobility with sophisticated features. It's tailored for those who thrive in the outdoors but don’t want to compromise on cooking quality. For $450 there really isn't much that can compete.

Seamless Connectivity and Ease of Use

  • Remote Control: Equipped with WiFi, the Chimp allows for temperature adjustments via the Grilla Grills app, which is not only sleek but user-friendly. This feature proves invaluable when multitasking, ensuring you remain in control without being tied down.
  • App Integration: The app not only controls the grill but also offers access to a wealth of recipes and cooking tips, enhancing your grilling experience and expanding your culinary repertoire.
  • Alert System: Receive real-time updates and alerts directly on your smartphone about the grill's status, ensuring you never miss a beat during your cooking sessions.
Grilla Chimp Portable Wood Pellet Grill with digital temperature control display, foldable legs, and stainless steel body, ideal for outdoor cooking and tailgating.
Interior view of Grilla Chimp Portable Grill, showcasing stainless steel grates and advanced control systems, ready for versatile outdoor cooking.

Durability and Performance

  • Sturdy Construction: Crafted with stainless steel elements including the fire pot, heat deflector, and lid, this grill is built to last. Its heavy-duty grates are designed for optimal heat retention, perfect for achieving those desirable sear marks.
  • Precise Temperature Management: The temperature can be adjusted in 5-degree increments, providing the precision needed for any cooking style, from slow smoking to searing.

Balanced Design

  • Spacious Yet Portable: Despite its portability, the Chimp doesn't skimp on cooking space, offering ample area to cater to a significant gathering, making it as suitable for a backyard BBQ as it is for a camping trip.
  • Connectivity Considerations: While the WiFi feature is generally reliable, it's wise to anticipate areas with limited service, though this rarely detracts from the smoker's overall performance.

For those who value a smoker that combines portability with advanced features, the Grilla Chimp Tailgater is a perfect choice, expanding your smoking possibilities beyond the backyard.

Treager Pro 575

The Traeger Pro 575 emerges as a standout in the 2024 lineup of pellet grills, striking a balance between cost-effectiveness and advanced features. This model is designed for those who appreciate technological innovation without breaking the bank, making it ideal for backyard chefs who value both efficiency and taste.

High-Tech Features and Robust Design

  • Wi-Fi Integration: Equipped with Traeger's WiFIRE technology, this grill offers seamless connectivity, allowing you to adjust settings and monitor cooking remotely.
  • D2 Direct Drive System: Ensures reliable start-up and efficient heat distribution, enhancing the overall cooking performance.
Traeger Pro 575 pellet grill with digital control panel and durable all-terrain wheels, designed for precise and versatile outdoor cooking.
Open lid view of the Traeger Pro 575 showing the spacious grilling area and the digital control panel for enhanced cooking precision.

Generous Cooking Space and User-Friendly Elements

  • Ample Capacity: With 575 square inches of cooking area, it’s well-suited for large gatherings, accommodating a variety of foods simultaneously.
  • Precision Controls: The grill's temperature control system, coupled with the robust WiFIRE app, provides precise adjustments for a flawless cooking experience.

Designed for Convenience

  • Pellet Hopper Cleanout: Makes maintenance easy and hassle-free.
  • Keep-Warm Function: Ensures your food remains ready to serve without overcooking.

The Traeger Pro 575 stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to quality and functionality, presenting an excellent option for both novice and seasoned grillers.

Product Summary

  1. Grilla Silverbac All-Terrain Alpha Connect:  BUY NOW 

    • Best for: Tech-savvy grillers who prioritize convenience and innovation.
    • Key Features: WiFi connectivity, remote control, stable connection needs, user-friendly app.
    • Ideal Situation: Perfect for those who want full control of their smoker from anywhere, especially for long cooks and precise temperature management.
  2. Pit Boss Sportsman 820 Pellet Grill: BUY NOW

    • Best for: Those who value versatility and durability in a mid-range pellet grill.
    • Key Features: Ample cooking space, large pellet hopper, precise temperature control.
    • Ideal Situation: Great for individuals or families who enjoy hosting gatherings and need a grill that can handle long cooks with ease.
  3. Traeger Ironwood Series: BUY NOW 

    • Best for: Enthusiasts who prioritize premium features and reliability.
    • Key Features: Quick assembly, generous cooking space, precise temperature management, durable construction.
    • Ideal Situation: Suitable for serious grillers who are willing to invest in a high-quality grill that delivers consistent results and offers advanced features.
  4. Pit Boss Mahogany 440 Deluxe Wood Pellet Grill: BUY NOW

    • Best for: Those seeking a balance between quality and affordability.
    • Key Features: 8-in-1 cooking versatility, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, spacious cooking area.
    • Ideal Situation: Ideal for individuals who want a reliable grill that offers advanced features without breaking the bank, suitable for both beginners and experienced grillers.
  5. Grilla Chimp Tailgater: BUY NOW 

    • Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts looking for a portable yet feature-rich option.
    • Key Features: WiFi connectivity, stainless steel construction, precise temperature control.
    • Ideal Situation: Perfect for tailgating, camping, or any outdoor adventure where space is limited but quality cooking is essential.
  6. Traeger Pro 575 Pellet Grill: BUY NOW 

    • Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking Traeger quality.
    • Key Features: WiFi integration, ample cooking space, convenient design elements.
    • Ideal Situation: Suitable for individuals or families on a budget who still want a reliable and feature-rich pellet grill from a trusted brand.

Each of these pellet smokers offers unique features and benefits tailored to different preferences and situations. Whether you prioritize convenience, affordability, portability, or premium features, there's a pellet smoker on this list to suit your needs.

Faq.

What makes pellet smokers different from traditional charcoal or gas grills?

Pellet smokers use wood pellets as fuel, which impart a rich, smoky flavor to the food. They also offer precise temperature control and versatility, allowing for various cooking styles such as smoking, grilling, roasting, and baking.

Can I use pellet smokers for high-temperature grilling?

Yes, many pellet smokers, such as the Traeger Ironwood Series and Grilla Chimp Tailgater, offer the ability to reach high temperatures suitable for searing steaks and achieving crispy skins on poultry.

Are pellet smokers suitable for outdoor adventures like camping or tailgating?

Absolutely! Portable pellet smokers like the Grilla Chimp Tailgater and Traeger Pro 575 Pellet Grill are designed specifically for outdoor use, offering compact sizes and convenient features for on-the-go cooking.

How difficult is it to clean and maintain a pellet smoker?

Cleaning and maintenance of pellet smokers are generally straightforward. Regular tasks include emptying ash from the fire pot, cleaning the grates, and occasionally vacuuming out the hopper. Some models, like the Pit Boss Mahogany 440 Deluxe, even feature pellet hopper cleanout systems for added convenience.

Can I use wood pellets other than those recommended by the manufacturer?

While it's generally recommended to use wood pellets specifically designed for pellet smokers, many users have successfully experimented with different types of wood pellets to achieve various flavors. However, using low-quality or impure pellets may affect the performance and flavor of your smoker and could potentially damage the grill.

How long do wood pellets typically last in a pellet smoker?

The duration of wood pellets depends on factors such as the size of the hopper, the temperature setting, and the cooking time. Generally, a 20-pound bag of pellets can last anywhere from 10 to 20 hours of cooking, but this can vary based on individual usage.

Can I use pellet smokers in cold weather conditions?

Yes, pellet smokers are suitable for use in cold weather conditions, but you may need to take some precautions to ensure optimal performance. This can include insulating the grill, using a thermal blanket, or preheating the smoker for longer periods.

Are pellet smokers suitable for beginners?

Yes, pellet smokers are often recommended for beginners due to their ease of use and precise temperature control. Many models, such as the Traeger Pro 575 Pellet Grill and Pit Boss Mahogany 440 Deluxe, feature user-friendly interfaces and straightforward assembly instructions, making them accessible to grillers of all skill levels.

Can I use pellet smokers indoors?

Pellet smokers are designed for outdoor use due to the nature of wood pellet combustion, which produces smoke and requires ventilation. Using pellet smokers indoors can pose safety risks and may violate building codes. It's recommended to use pellet smokers in well-ventilated outdoor spaces.

What type of wood pellets should I use for smoking different types of meat?

The type of wood pellet you use can significantly impact the flavor of your smoked meats. Popular wood pellet flavors include hickory, mesquite, apple, cherry, and oak. Experimenting with different wood pellet flavors can enhance the taste of various meats, with each wood imparting its unique flavor profile.

About the Author

Matt Barrell

Hi, Matt Barrell here. A BBQ and Smoked meat enthusiast. I love grilling and smoking meat, it is not just my hobby its my passion. My goal is to share my passion with as many other like-minded people as possible.