Pellet grills have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. These versatile grills use wood pellets as fuel, which not only imparts a delicious smoky flavor to your food but also allows for greater temperature control and consistency. When it comes to finding the best pellet grill under a certain budget, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First and foremost, it’s important to consider the size of the grill. If you’re cooking for a large family or entertaining guests, you’ll want a grill with a larger cooking surface area. On the other hand, if you’re only cooking for a few people, a smaller grill might be more practical. Additionally, you’ll want to consider the overall build quality of the grill, as well as any additional features such as Wi-Fi connectivity or built-in meat probes.
At the end of the day, the best pellet grill under a certain budget is the one that meets your specific needs and preferences. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to determine which grill is right for you. That’s why we spent hours researching and testing various pellet grills to identify the top options for those on a budget.
Best Pellet Grills Under $500
We understand that finding the perfect pellet grill can be a daunting task, especially if you’re on a budget. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best pellet grills under $500. These grills are not only affordable but also offer great features and performance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pitmaster, our list has something for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best pellet grills under $500.
DAMNISS Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable pellet grill that offers precision temperature control, the DAMNISS Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker is a great option. We recommend this grill for anyone who wants to cook a variety of dishes with ease.
Pros
- The PID intelligent temperature control technology ensures that the grill maintains a stable temperature throughout the cooking process, resulting in perfect results every time.
- The grill is built to last with a durable stainless steel body that resists corrosion.
- With 8-in-1 versatility, you can smoke, bake, roast, sear, braise, barbecue, and char-grill your food with healthy wood pellets.
Cons
- The package does not include meat probes.
- Some users reported damaged parts upon delivery.
- The cooking grates move more than expected.
We were impressed with the DAMNISS Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker’s ability to maintain a stable temperature throughout the cooking process. The 180-450℉ temperature range provides the versatility to smoke ribs, sear steak, bake pie, roast veggies, and everything in between. The grill also offers a substantial 456 sq. in. grilling space, making it ideal for entertaining large groups or for multiple dishes at once.
The grill is constructed with high-quality materials for long-lasting use and is designed for easy cleaning to keep your smoker in top shape with minimal effort. Equipped with 2 rugged smooth wheels, you can push the portable smoker grill on any terrain, even grass, mud, snow, or sand, greatly improving portability.
Overall, the DAMNISS Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker is a great choice for anyone who wants a versatile and durable grill that offers precision temperature control.
Onlyfire UPGRADED Wood Pellet Grill Smoker
If you are looking for a portable pellet grill that can meet all your cooking needs, then the Onlyfire UPGRADED Wood Pellet Grill Smoker is a great option. With its 8-in-1 cooking capabilities, precision temperature control, and large cooking area, this grill is perfect for outdoor pellet grill journeys, camping, tailgating, and family gatherings.
Pros
- The chimneyless design ensures that smoke circulates internally, suitable for outdoor use.
- The smart digital temperature control system and fast feeding speed make it easy to control the precise temperature.
- The 252 square inches of the total cooking surface provides ample space to cook many different types of meat and vegetables.
Cons
- Some users reported issues with the screws being too small for the provided holes, resulting in stripping.
- Several users had issues with temperature regulation, with some reporting that the temperature did not reach the desired level.
- A few users reported broken knobs or other defects upon delivery.
We tested the Onlyfire UPGRADED Wood Pellet Grill Smoker and found that it was easy to use and provided excellent results. The precision temperature control allowed us to cook our food to perfection, and the large cooking area provided ample space to cook for our entire family. The chimneyless design also allowed for the smoke to circulate internally, resulting in a perfectly wood-fired flavored pellet grill.
One potential issue we found was that some users reported issues with screws being too small for the provided holes, resulting in stripping. Additionally, some users had issues with temperature regulation, with some reporting that the temperature did not reach the desired level. However, overall, we found the Onlyfire UPGRADED Wood Pellet Grill Smoker to be a great option for those looking for a portable pellet grill that can meet all their cooking needs.
Nexgrill Oakford 580 Pellet Grill
If you’re looking for a pellet grill that offers versatility, usability, and ruggedness, the Nexgrill Oakford 580 Pellet Grill could be a great option for you. With over 580 square inches of cooking space, this grill offers plenty of room to cook for your family and friends. The 6-in-1 cooking system allows you to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and warm your food to perfection.
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Pros
- NEX-fi enabled Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to monitor and control your cook and food temperatures, find recipes, and connect with other grillers.
- The 3 accessory hooks located on the fixed side shelf provide additional storage for your grilling tools.
- The I-site pellet view indicator makes it easy to monitor pellet levels, so you don’t run out of fuel in the middle of your cook.
Cons
- The temperature control can be a bit inconsistent, with fluctuations of +/- 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The assembly process can be time-consuming and requires two people for the first 15 minutes or so.
- The customer service from Nexgrill can be slow and unresponsive.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Nexgrill Oakford 580 Pellet Grill, and we were impressed with its performance. The NEX-fi enabled Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity allowed us to easily monitor and control our cook and food temperatures, and we loved being able to find new recipes and connect with other grillers through the app. The 3 accessory hooks located on the fixed side shelf were also a nice touch, providing us with additional storage for our grilling tools.
However, we did notice that the temperature control could be a bit inconsistent, with fluctuations of +/- 20 degrees Fahrenheit. While this didn’t significantly impact the final product, it did require us to keep a closer eye on the grill than we would have liked. Additionally, the assembly process was a bit time-consuming and required two people for the first 15 minutes or so. Finally, we did have some issues with the customer service from Nexgrill, which was slow and unresponsive.
Overall, we would recommend the Nexgrill Oakford 580 Pellet Grill to anyone looking for a versatile, easy-to-use grill with plenty of cooking space. However, if you’re looking for a grill with precise temperature control or quick assembly, you may want to consider other options.
Z GRILLS Pellet Smoker Grill
If you’re looking for a versatile and reliable pellet smoker grill, the Z GRILLS Pellet Smoker Grill is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 8-in-1 functionality allows you to smoke, bake, roast, sear, braise, barbecue, and char-grill your food with ease.
- The PID technology ensures precise temperature control, resulting in delicious, smoke-flavored dishes every time.
- With 700 sq. in of grilling space, this smoker grill can accommodate up to 30 burgers, 6 rib racks, or 5 chickens, making it perfect for large gatherings.
Cons
- The smoker grill is quite heavy, weighing in at 135 pounds, which can make it difficult to move around.
- Some users have reported issues with the grill not heating up properly, which can be frustrating.
- The assembly instructions could be clearer, so it may take some time to put the grill together.
In our experience, the Z GRILLS Pellet Smoker Grill is a reliable and versatile option that delivers excellent results. The 8-in-1 functionality is a real plus, allowing you to cook a wide variety of dishes with ease. The PID technology ensures precise temperature control, which is essential for achieving great results when smoking meat. The large grilling space is also a real bonus, making it easy to cook for a crowd.
That being said, the grill is quite heavy, so it may not be the best option if you need to move it around frequently. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the grill not heating up properly, which can be frustrating. Finally, the assembly instructions could be clearer, so it may take some time to put the grill together.
Overall, we would recommend the Z GRILLS Pellet Smoker Grill to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile smoker grill that delivers great results. If you’re willing to put in the time to assemble it and get to grips with the controls, you won’t be disappointed.
Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly pellet grill that offers a wide range of cooking options, the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- With PID intelligent temperature control technology, this grill ensures a stable temperature throughout the grilling process.
- The extra storage provided by the side shelf and bottom storage cabinet means you won’t have to run back and forth for grilling essentials.
- Auto temperature control, auto-start ignition, and presettable temperature make this pellet grill super easy to use, even for beginners.
Cons
- The direct flame searing function requires you to keep the lid open, which can be inconvenient.
- Some users have reported issues with the temperature control, which can’t be set to certain temperatures.
- The cooking area is advertised as 1000 sq.in, but this includes the warming area, so the actual cooking area is smaller.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker, and we were impressed with its versatility and ease of use. The 8-in-1 functionality allows you to bake, grill, smoke, BBQ, roast, braise, barbeque, and char-grill, so you can experiment with various cooking techniques to create delicious meals that cater to your taste preferences.
The grill’s PID intelligent temperature control technology ensures that the fuel feed and airflow rate are auto-tuned in real-time to maintain a stable temperature throughout the grilling process, so you can focus on preparing your food without worrying about the temperature.
The extra storage provided by the side shelf and bottom storage cabinet is a convenient feature that allows you to keep all your grilling essentials within reach. The caster wheels make it easy to move the grill around, and the locking mechanism keeps it from rolling away.
While the direct flame searing function is a nice addition, it requires you to keep the lid open, which can be inconvenient. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the temperature control, which can’t be set to certain temperatures.
Overall, we think the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker is a great choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly pellet grill that offers a wide range of cooking options. With its easy-to-use features and reliable performance, it’s sure to be a hit at your next outdoor BBQ.
Cuisinart CPG-465 Portable Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
We highly recommend the Cuisinart CPG-465 Portable Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker for those looking for a versatile grill that can smoke, grill, roast, braise, and char-grill. With 465 sq.in. of cooking space, an integrated sear zone, and a wide temperature range from 180°F to 500°F, you can cook a variety of dishes with ease.
Pros
- The 8-in-1 cooking capabilities expand your cooking options.
- The All-Terrain Wheels and Lift Handle make it easy to move around.
- The digital control automatically adds pellets as needed to regulate the temperature.
Cons
- The assembly process can be time-consuming.
- The 13 lb. hopper capacity may not be sufficient for long smoking sessions.
- The stainless steel material may rust over time.
We found that the digital controller with electronic auto-start ignition, digital auto temperature control, and real-time LED temperature display made cooking with the Cuisinart CPG-465 a breeze. The set it and forget it style cooking with one meat probe included helped us keep an eye on the food temperature without constantly checking on it.
The All-Terrain Wheels and Lift Handle made it easy for us to move the grill around. We also appreciated the 13 inches of prep space with a bottle opener and tool hooks, making it convenient to have everything we needed within reach.
Overall, the Cuisinart CPG-465 Portable Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker is a great option for those looking for an affordable and versatile grill that can handle a variety of cooking styles.
Cuisinart Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
If you’re looking for a versatile and portable pellet grill, the Cuisinart Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker is a great option for you. We recommend this product because of its 8-in-1 cooking capabilities, wide temperature range, and portability.
Pros
- The integrated sear zone expands your cooking capabilities, allowing you to smoke, BBQ, grill, roast, sear, braise, bake, and char-grill all in one unit.
- The digital control automatically adds pellets as needed to regulate the temperature, giving you a wide temperature range from 180°F to 500°F.
- The portable design makes it easy to take anywhere, with a lightweight of 45lbs, 24 x 18 x 15, and a locking lid with handle.
Cons
- The hopper capacity of 4 lbs may not be enough for long smoking sessions.
- Some users reported that the programming is not quite right, making it difficult to maintain the desired temperature.
- The temperature gauge may not be accurate, leading to over or undercooking the food.
We found that the Cuisinart Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker is easy to set up and use. The digital controller has an electronic auto-start ignition, digital auto temperature control, and a real-time LED temperature display, making it easy to monitor the cooking process. The set it and forget it style cooking is great for backyard dinners, camping, tailgating, and more.
The 256 sq.in. of cooking space is enough to cook a 10 lb turkey or 2 racks of ribs, making it perfect for small families or gatherings. The one meat probe included helps you keep an eye on the food temperature, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection.
Overall, we think that the Cuisinart Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker is a great investment for those who are looking for a versatile and portable pellet grill. With its 8-in-1 cooking capabilities, wide temperature range, and portability, you can enjoy delicious smoked and grilled food wherever you go.
Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker Grill
If you’re looking for a versatile pellet grill that can accommodate large gatherings, the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker Grill is worth considering.
Pros
- The large cooking space and hopper capacity make it easy to cook for a crowd.
- The digital panel control is user-friendly and convenient.
- The 8-in-1 versatility allows for a wide range of cooking techniques.
Cons
- The temperature control system could be more precise.
- The stainless steel lid can get hot to the touch.
- The assembly process can be time-consuming.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker Grill, and we were impressed by its overall performance. With 697 square inches of cooking space and a 20-pound hopper capacity, this grill is perfect for hosting large gatherings and cooking up a variety of dishes.
One of the standout features of this grill is the digital panel control, which makes it easy to monitor and adjust the temperature as needed. We appreciated how user-friendly it was, even for beginners. Plus, the 8-in-1 versatility allowed us to experiment with different cooking techniques, from smoking to grilling to baking.
While we were generally pleased with the performance of the temperature control system, we did notice that it could be a bit imprecise at times. Additionally, we found that the stainless steel lid could get quite hot to the touch, which could be a concern for those with young children or pets.
Finally, we should note that the assembly process for this grill can be a bit time-consuming. However, we felt that the end result was well worth the effort.
Overall, we would recommend the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker Grill to anyone in the market for a versatile and spacious pellet grill. While it may have a few minor flaws, its impressive performance and user-friendly features make it a great choice for backyard barbecues and outdoor gatherings.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best pellet grill, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when making your decision:
Size and Capacity
Consider the size and capacity of the pellet grill. This will depend on how many people you typically cook for and how much space you have available. Look for a grill with enough cooking surface area to accommodate your needs.
Temperature Range
The temperature range of the grill is also an important consideration. Look for a grill that can reach high temperatures for searing and low temperatures for smoking. A wider temperature range will give you more versatility in your cooking.
Pellet Hopper Capacity
The pellet hopper capacity determines how long you can cook without needing to refill the pellets. Look for a grill with a hopper capacity that matches your cooking needs.
Ease of Use
Consider the ease of use of the grill. Look for features such as digital controls, automatic pellet feeders, and ash removal systems. These features can make the cooking process easier and more convenient.
Durability
The durability of the grill is also an important consideration. Look for a grill made from high-quality materials that can withstand the elements and heavy use.
Warranty
Finally, consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. Look for a grill with a warranty that covers the grill for a reasonable amount of time. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you are covered if anything goes wrong with the grill.
By considering these factors, you can find the best pellet grill for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should we look for in a high-quality pellet grill within a budget?
When shopping for a pellet grill within a budget, it is important to consider the size of the cooking area, the quality of the build, and the ease of use. Look for grills with a large cooking area, sturdy construction, and features such as digital temperature control, ash cleanout, and grease management systems.
How do Pit Boss pellet grills compare to Traeger in terms of value for money?
Pit Boss and Traeger are both well-known brands in the pellet grill market. Pit Boss grills are generally more affordable than Traeger grills, but both brands offer a range of models with varying features and price points. Ultimately, the best value for money will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
What are the top-rated pellet grills known for their performance and affordability?
Some of the top-rated pellet grills known for their performance and affordability include the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX, the Z Grills 700D, and the Pit Boss Austin XL. These grills offer a range of features such as large cooking areas, digital temperature control, and sturdy construction, all at a reasonable price point.
Can you recommend durable pellet grills that offer the best return on investment?
Some of the most durable pellet grills that offer the best return on investment include the Traeger Pro Series 575, the Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett, and the Weber SmokeFire EX4. These grills are built to last and offer a range of features that make them worth the investment.
What are some common drawbacks of using a pellet grill that buyers should be aware of?
Some common drawbacks of using a pellet grill include the need for electricity to operate, the potential for mechanical issues, and the need to regularly clean out ash and grease. It is also important to note that pellet grills may not get as hot as traditional charcoal or gas grills, which can impact cooking times and results.
Where can we find unbiased reviews of pellet grills to help with our purchasing decision?
There are many websites and online forums where you can find unbiased reviews of pellet grills, including Consumer Reports, BBQGuys.com, and Reddit’s r/pelletgrills community. It is important to read a variety of reviews from different sources to get a well-rounded understanding of a grill’s performance and reliability.