The Ultimate Guide to the Best Pellet Grill Under $500
A top-grade pellet grill may transform your entire BBQ experience by giving all of your food the desired wood-kiss flavor and aroma. Numerous pellet smokers are expensive. Don’t worry; if you are on a tight budget, choose one of the best pellet smokers under $500 on our list.
If you are looking for the best pellet grill under $500, then this guide may help you. We researched the accomplishments of all products, and we suggest potential products that are cheap, but their ability to smoke is beyond your imagination.
Nowadays, a pellet grill is one of the best and most straightforward ways to get outdoor grilling. If you want to get heating, moisture, plenty of juice, and digital temperature control, then pellet grills are best to satisfy your desires.
- Large capacity pellet hopper with exclusive ash cleanout system
- Electronic auto-start ignition for quick and easy start every…
- Dual LED temperature readout shows internal cooking temps and…
- Simple temperature selection system maintains heat
Last update on 2023-12-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Pellet Grill Under $500 Full Reviews
Last update on 2023-12-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The best affordable pellet grill is one the best and great options to get a wide range of temperatures, control, and cooking ability without the fusses of charcoal and propane tank.
Pellet grills are unbelievable smokers who provide without babysitting and all the labor by stick burgers. In short, the best-budget pellet grills are better than gas grills. Here is a recap and list of the best pellet grill under $500.
- Large capacity pellet hopper with exclusive ash cleanout system
- Electronic auto-start ignition for quick and easy start every…
- Dual LED temperature readout shows internal cooking temps and…
- Simple temperature selection system maintains heat
Last update on 2023-12-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Camp Chef is a Utah-based 20-year-old company that makes outdoor and camping cookware. The Camp Chef Pro is a recent addition to their offspring, much like Camp Chef PG24STX SmokePro. The Camp Chef DLX pellet grill exhibits many features that many other costly smokers may lack. We set many tests with our team to see its performance to find whether it is the best standalone pellet grill under 500$.
First, we talk about its specifications, this is equipped with a PID temperature control system, and auto-start ignition facilitates the smokers to start every time they cook. SmokePro DLX Pellet has 18 pound-hopper and brilliant ash cleanout system that washes debris and clinker by pulling a lever.
Now come to its working and performance, the most prominent attribute of this pellet grill highlighted by one of our members is temperature control. Yes, its advanced control unit precisely keeps the temperature within 5 degrees of the set temperature. That most traditional smokers may fluctuate the temperature that they set for cooking. Another feature that makes this unit more valuable is its portability. So, you can easily fold this unit and put them into luggage bags without worry.
If you’re a severe backyard smoke chef who wants flawless cook after flawless cook and precision control temperature, then Camp Chef SmokePro DLX is one of the best choices among various pellet smokers.
What We Like
- Easy To Clean System
- Extremely Portable
- A lot of compatible accessories
- Enhanced Temp Control
What We Don’t Like
- Hopper fails to deliver pellets when their level falls down.
- LARGE CAPACITY DESIGN – 697 sq.in cooking space and ultra-large…
- CONVENIENT SMOKING – Features an easy-to-use digital panel…
- 8-IN-1 VERSATILITY – Bake, grill, smoke, BBQ, roast, braise,…
- BETTER SMOKED FLAVOR – Unique smoking technology and temperature…
Last update on 2023-12-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Z grill ZPG -7002E was introduced in 2017, and it’s a U.S.-based brand that has been making high-quality grills and smokers for over 30 years. If you want to buy a smoker that offers similar features like Traeger at approximately half of its price. Then this most popular and top-selling product is an ideal choice that genuinely suits your needs and budget.
The Z grill is almost similar to its preceded 700D and 700E models. The ZPG -7002E is an all-in-one backyard hero. This pellet smoker is perfect for beginners. Furthermore, it is easy to use and assemble. It produces tasty, well-smoked food compared to a gas or charcoal grill.
A big plus for this grill is that it nicely holds a consistent temperature and allows even and stressless cooking. It can do this because of the intelligent digital pellet control technology, which feeds pellets into the fire and monitors the grill’s airflow.
Another best element about this smoker is that it has 20 lbs large-capacity pellet hopper that offers a longer cooking time and eliminates the need to refill the hopper constantly.
The only thing we don’t like is its cart-style design which offers a lower storage shelf. Compared to its competitors, ZPG -7002E can control the accurate temperature when used for extended hours.
What we like
- Precise temperature control
- Great value for money
- Set it and forget it
- Versatile cooking options
What we don’t like
- Offer low storage area.
- 700 sq. in. total cooking surface.
- Porcelain coated wire grids with upper cooking rack
- Digitally controlled burn system.
- Fueled by 100% natural Pit Boss wood pellets.
Last update on 2023-12-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
PIT BOSS 700FB Pellet Grill was introduced in 1999 by secondary Danson with the most result-oriented functionality and high-quality craftsmanship. It has high-sustain steel gauges with porcelain-coated cast grates.
Its sturdiness, rust-resistant nature, and durability made it a long-lasting grill for years. This grill is highly versatile and offers 8-in-1 cooking options. It brings out char-grill, searing, roasting, broiling, BBQ, smoking, and backing for an extended period.
The key features of this classic pellet grill include a 700 square inches cooking area, temperature between 180 to 500°F, an innovative broiler,21lb hopper capacity, and a digitally controlled burn system.
Let’s come to the valuable points of why we choose PIT BOSS 700FB in this review. First of all, Its cast iron grates are porcelain coated which are relatively nonstick, evenly retain and distribute the heat, and enhance their durability compared to the noncoated version. Secondly, the hopper has ample capacity, and the Pellet cleanout chute system removes unused pellets quickly. Moreover, you can also increase your grill space by using its grill inset rack.
The biggest disappointment for us is the minimal smoky flavor in meat, and the camber temperature may swing some time. In a nutshell, PIT BOSS 700FB is a pellet grill under 500$, and its flexible cooking nature and huge pellet capacity make it Perfect for family cookouts and small gatherings.
What We like
- Large cooking space
- Pellet cleanout door
- Versatile cooking
- Large temperature range
- A breeze to keep it clean
What We Don’t Like
- Difficult to adjust the broiler
- NEVER USE GAS OR CHARCOAL AGAIN: Traeger created the original…
- PRECISION TEMPERATURE CONTROL: The Digital Arc Controller…
- Take your grill and your wood-fired BBQ wherever you go. Whether…
- EZ fold legs, a grill capacity of 300 sq inches, and capacity for…
Last update on 2023-12-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Traeger Tailgater Pellet Grill line, with its incredible flavor, versatility, and genuine wood cooking, enables any beginner or aspiring backyard chef to smoke ribs, fish, jerky bake biscuits, make pizza, and more with an assurance of 100% results every time.
Featuring a compact, portable design, Digital Arc Controller, durable build, and EZ foldable legs, it’s perfect for balconies, tailgating, picnics, patios, or anywhere else you want to take it. The hardwood pellets are a fuel source that brings out a superior taste to other grills in this class.
In our view, it provides enough cooking (300 sq.in.)to get together through a small to medium size. Another worth buying feature is the hopper capacity; it holds an 8-pound pellet which is quite impressive at this grill size.
Now we are well aware of its specification and performance. Now the question is whether a TRAEGER TAILGATER is worth buying. According to our analysis and consumer input, the Traeger tailgater is a way to go because its solid build makes it more than other pellets grill/ smoker models today.
We also recommend it because it offers a cost-effective fuel source, and you can smoke or grill your preferred meat anywhere you want.
What We Like
- Little more pricey than other grills on our list
- Foldable legs
- Digital Elite Controller
- LED display
- 6-in-1 versatile cooking
What We Don’t Like
- Small hopper capacity
- Digital Controls – Electronic auto-ignition, Easy temperature…
- Automatic auger dispenses pellets as needed for improved smoker…
- Built-in temperature gauge controls internal cooking temperature,…
- Patented Ash Cleanout System, Roller wheels for convenience,…
Last update on 2023-12-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Camp Chef is a papular and top-rated name for pellet smokers, including grills and smokers. Their product line cookware delivers excellent outdoor cooking results. These grills are highly demanding due to their durability, versatility, portability, and power to cook steaks.
It offered the easiest and quickest way to remove leftover ash from your grill, thanks to its convenient grease management and patented ash cleanout system. You can also position your grill anywhere to want with the help of roller wheels.
In addition, the dual meat probes and digital display provide complete control over the temperature of food, and you are well aware of what’s going under the lid of your grill. Select the desired cooking temperature and let the smoker do the rest.
Based on our testing and evaluation Camp Chef SmokePro SE have a solid construction and valuable, high-quality pellet grill for under 500$. You may also consider the Camp Chef SmokePro SG 24″ if you want the same high-performance grill with extra features like a sear box, sidekick wifi, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Wrapping it up, we found the SmokePro SE feature-loaded and worth every penny you invest in it. We found temperature consistent throughout the cooking process, and the next perk of buying the product is its durable build and breeze cleaning with minimal effort.
What We Like
- Durable steel construction
- Built-in sensor
- Offer 6-in-1 cooking
- Great customer feedback
What We Don’t Like
- The company recommended using its own brand’s pellet.
What to Consider Before Buying The Best Pellet Grill Under $500
If you are a beginner and casual hobbyist in the smoking industry. Then numerous things must go through before purchasing a budget-friendly grill. If you have purchased the wrong smoker, then the possible chances you may get a bad grill.
So, read our list of buying guides to avoid compromising quality at less price.
- The Cooking Surface
- Temperature Range
- Hopper capacity
- Portability
- Material
- Price Comparison
- Versatility
The Cooking Surface
While considering a pellet grill or any other grill pay attention to its total cooking area, including side racks or shelves. Because it determines how much food you can cook on it.
For instance, in our review, Z Grills and PIT BOSS, 71700FB Pellet Grills provide an overall vast cooking space of 700 sq inches, allowing you to place all goods at once and cook efficiently.
If you have a small family, then Camp Chef SmokePro DLX gives you a sufficient area of 570 sq. in. and accomodates12 burgers, three racks of ribs, or two whole chickens easily.
So make sure, before buying, the cooking area must match your smoking needs.
Temperature Range
The best vertical pellet smoker allows the user to control the temperature range. Every pellet smoker has its own temperature range and cooking space. Make sure you are buying the best pellet smoker under $500 and has a much temperature range.
The smoker with PID control provides better control over temperature. So, try to choose one that offers digital or PID control that is beneficial for success. For this purpose, you may consider Camp Chef SmokePro DLX.
The Hopper Capacity
Hopper capacity is also an essential point because its size or capacity determines overall smoking time or how long you can smoke your meat without refill.
So, choosing one with colossal capacity prevents you from repeated refills.
Portability
Portability is also one of the significant factors during buying. Almost all grills in over review are portable. Their heavy-duty wheels allow easy mobility, and foldable legs serve as handles, making them perfect for traveling, camping, or picnic.
Material
The grill you choose should be robust and waterproof because it will be used outdoors.
Most high-quality pellet grills are rust- and corrosion-resistant stainless steel, allowing them to last for many years.
Price Comparison
The pit boss pellet grill is well known, affordable in price, and high quality than the Traeger pellet grill. Because that pit boss is budget friendly and can get a $500 roundabout. Every smoker has its own amenities and prices. You can enjoy the portable option of the pit boss.
It is foldable, and you can set the temperature that you want. You can take it for a picnic or a party. Price comparison depends on your budget. If you are a casual hobbyist and enjoy a maximum taste from smoking, then pit boss suits your choice.
FAQS About Best Pellet Grill Under $500
How does a pellet grill work?
Pellet grills work a bit differently than charcoal or gas grills. The hardwood pellets as a fuel source in these pellets. These pellets automatically reach the heating chamber when you turn on the grill. The heat and smoke produce when pellets burn and are dispersed through the grill with a convection fan.
Moreover, in pellet grills, unlike traditional gas or charcoal grills, the cooking chamber is heated indirectly instead of in open flames.
Pellet grill also maintains their temperature like ovens. You just set the temperature using the control panel accordingly to what you want to cook, holding the temperature independently. This, on the other hand, also helps you constantly monitor your grill.
Does a pellet grill need electricity? Does a pellet grill need electricity?
Unlike a gas or charcoal grill, pellet grills need electricity to function correctly. Because the control panel, thermometer, auger, and fans require electricity, so the unit must be plugged in before starting the grilling.
What are the advantages of pellet grills?
There are several advantages; one of the main benefits that they provide are
- Precise temperature control
- Require minimal oversight during cooking
- Give a consistent and equal temperature
- Set it and forget technology
- Give a wonderful smoky flavor
- Versatile
- Prevent flare-ups
- Offer even cooking
- Require less maintenance
Can We Use A Pellet Grill As An Oven?
Yes. You can use a pellet grill as an oven. The Pellet oven reaches a high temperature and brings baked bread, desserts, and pies.
Final Verdict
Selection of the best pellet grill with a reasonable budget is challenging. But, after reading our review of the best pellet grill under $500, it’s not a severe issue for you to choose one for your upcoming purchase.
These pellet grills suit casual hobbyists and old users of smokers. A great pellet smoker may change your whole BBQ game. So, choose wisely and cook smartly.
