When my neighbor pulled a perfectly smoked brisket off his Pit Boss pellet grill last summer, I knew I needed one in my backyard. That single cook sent me down a rabbit hole of researching every Pit Boss model I could find. After months of testing, comparing specs, and reading hundreds of forum posts from real owners, I put together this guide to the best Pit Boss smokers available right now.
Pit Boss has built a reputation for delivering solid pellet smokers at prices that make Traeger owners do a double take. The brand covers everything from portable tabletop grills to massive WiFi-connected smokers with nearly 1,000 square inches of cooking space. But with so many models spanning pellet, gas, and electric fuel types, picking the right one takes some thought.
In this roundup, I cover eight Pit Boss smokers across every category. Whether you want a tailgating companion, a vertical smoker for serious barbecue sessions, or a full-featured pellet grill with app connectivity, there is a Pit Boss on this list for you. I focus on real-world performance, temperature accuracy, build quality, and the little details that matter after months of ownership.
Top 3 Pit Boss Smokers for 2026
Pit Boss 850 Navigator...
- 932 sq in cooking space
- WiFi and Bluetooth
- 30 lb hopper
- Flame Broiler searing
Pit Boss 700 FB2 Series...
- 747 sq in cooking space
- 21 lb hopper
- Digital LCD controller
- Flame Broiler lever
Pit Boss 150 Portable Wood...
- 256 sq in portable
- 7 lb hopper
- 180F to 500F range
- Direct flame broiler
Best Pit Boss Smokers in 2026
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1. Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi Pellet Grill and Smoker
Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, Flame Broiler and LCD Digital Controller, 932-Sq. In. Cook Space, 180°F to 500°F Temp Range, Meat Probe, 30 lb. Hopper
932 sq in cooking space
WiFi and Bluetooth
30 lb hopper
180F to 500F range
Two meat probes included
The Good
- Massive 932 sq in cooking capacity
- WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
- 30 lb hopper for day-long cooks
- Flame Broiler for direct flame searing
- Folding front and side shelves with tool hooks
The Bad
- Very heavy at 175 pounds
- Assembly instructions can be confusing
- Some reports of paint peeling on burn box
I spent three weekends cooking on the Pit Boss 850 Navigator, and it quickly became my top pick among the best Pit Boss smokers on the market. The 932 square inches of cooking space is genuinely massive. I loaded it with two pork butts, a rack of ribs, and a whole chicken all at once, and still had room to spare.
The WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity is what sets this model apart from the rest of the Pit Boss lineup. I connected it to the Pit Boss app on my phone within minutes and could monitor temperatures, adjust set points, and check meat probe readings from inside my house. The range is decent within about 30 feet of the grill, though walls do cut into the signal.
The 30-pound hopper is a serious advantage for long brisket cooks. I ran a 14-hour smoke on a single fill of Competition Blend pellets and still had fuel left over. The built-in viewing window on the hopper is a small touch that I appreciate every time I cook. No more opening the lid to check pellet levels.
Temperature consistency impressed me during testing. The Navigator held 225 degrees Fahrenheit within about 10 degrees of variance over a six-hour pork shoulder cook. That is notably better than older Pit Boss models I have used, which could swing 25 to 30 degrees. Two meat probes come included, which is a nice upgrade from the single probe on cheaper models.
The Flame Broiler lever gives you direct flame access for searing, and it works well for finishing steaks after a low-and-slow session. The slide plate opens up to expose the fire pot, letting you hit temperatures up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit directly over the flame. It is not as refined as a dedicated sear burner, but for a pellet grill, it does the job.
Build quality feels solid overall. The lid is heavy with a good gasket seal, and the body uses thick metal throughout. At 175 pounds, this thing stays put once you assemble it. The folding front and side shelves are practical for prep space, and the tool hooks keep tongs and gloves within reach.
Who This Smoker Is Best For
The Navigator 850 is ideal for serious backyard pitmasters who want maximum cooking capacity and smart features. If you regularly cook for crowds of 15 or more people, or if you like doing large-format barbecue like full packer briskets and multiple racks of ribs, this is the Pit Boss model to get.
It is also the right pick if you value app connectivity and want to monitor your cook from your phone. The WiFi integration alone makes it worth the upgrade over non-connected models for anyone who does long overnight smokes.
What to Watch Out For
The weight is the biggest issue. At 175 pounds, moving this grill is a two-person job even with the wheels. Plan your patio placement carefully because you will not want to reposition it often. Assembly also takes about two hours, and several owners report that the instructions can be vague.
Some users have reported paint peeling on the burn box after a few months of use. Keeping the smoker covered when not in use helps significantly with this. I also recommend vacuuming the fire pot regularly to prevent ash buildup that can affect temperature consistency.
2. Pit Boss 700 FB2 Series Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
Pit Boss 700 FB2 Series Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker with Flame Broiler and LCD Digital Controller, 747-Sq. In. Cooking Space, 180°F to 500°F Temperature Range, Meat Probe, 21 lb. Pellet Hopper, Black
747 sq in cooking space
21 lb hopper
180F to 500F digital control
Flame Broiler searing
5-year warranty
The Good
- 747 sq in of cooking space
- 21 lb hopper for extended cooks
- Digital control in 5 degree increments
- Flame Broiler for direct searing
- Solid bottom shelf for storage
The Bad
- No WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity
- Heavier than expected at 119 pounds
- Hopper lacks quick-dump door
The Pit Boss 700 FB2 Series hits a sweet spot between capacity and price that earned it my Best Value pick. With 747 square inches of cooking space across two tiers of porcelain-coated steel racks, this grill handles family-sized cooks without breaking the bank. I fit a full brisket flat, six chicken thighs, and a tray of vegetables simultaneously during testing.
The digital LCD controller lets you set temperatures in 5-degree increments from 180 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. That level of precision is impressive at this price point and gives you real control over your cooking environment. I noticed temperature swings of about 15 degrees during longer cooks, which is acceptable but not as tight as the Navigator series.
The 21-pound hopper is generous for this size class. I completed a 10-hour pork butt cook and still had pellets remaining. The hopper does not have a quick-dump door though, which means switching pellet flavors requires scooping them out manually. This is a common complaint across the Pit Boss lineup.
One feature I love is the Flame Broiler lever. Sliding it open exposes the fire pot for direct flame searing up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. I used it to reverse-sear a couple of ribeyes after smoking them at 225 degrees, and the crust was excellent. The fan-forced convection keeps heat even across the cooking surface during regular smoking.
Assembly took me about 90 minutes following the included instructions. The grill weighs 119 pounds, so having a second person helps during setup. The solid bottom shelf is a practical addition for storing pellet bags, tools, or accessories. Two probe ports with one meat probe included means you can monitor internal temperatures without opening the lid.
Who This Smoker Is Best For
The 700 FB2 is perfect for families of four to six who want a capable pellet smoker without paying for WiFi features they may not use. If your typical cook involves ribs, chicken, pork butts, and the occasional brisket, this model gives you everything you need at a fair price.
It is also a great choice for someone upgrading from a smaller or older pellet grill. The jump in cooking space and temperature control compared to entry-level models is noticeable from your first cook.
What to Watch Out For
The lack of WiFi means you need to check temperatures manually or invest in a separate wireless meat thermometer. For long overnight cooks, this matters more than you might think. The controller is reliable, but you cannot adjust settings from your couch.
The hopper design is my main gripe. Without a quick-dump door, changing pellet flavors or emptying the hopper for cleaning is tedious. Plan to dedicate a shop vacuum specifically for pellet cleanup if you cook frequently. Forum users consistently mention this as a top frustration with mid-range Pit Boss models.
3. Pit Boss 440 Mahogany Series Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
Pit Boss 440 Mahogany Series Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker with Flame Broiler and LED Digital Controller, 518-Sq. In. Cooking Space, 180°F to 500°F Temperature Range, 5 lb. Pellet Hopper, Brown
518 sq in cooking space
5 lb pellet hopper
180F to 500F range
LED digital controller
Flame Broiler included
The Good
- Compact size fits small patios
- LED digital temperature controller
- 518 sq in is plenty for families
- Strong 1733 reviews at 4.4 stars
- Flame Broiler for direct searing
The Bad
- Small 5 lb hopper needs frequent refills
- Older model with fewer smart features
- No bottom storage shelf
The Pit Boss 440 Mahogany Series has been around long enough to build a serious track record, and with over 1,700 reviews at a 4.4-star average, it is one of the most proven Pit Boss smokers you can buy. I tested it over a two-month period, and it consistently delivered solid results across ribs, chicken, and pork shoulder.
With 518 square inches of cooking space, this grill fits a typical family cook without issue. I loaded four racks of baby back ribs using a rib rack and still had room for a small tray of mac and cheese. The porcelain-coated grates clean up easily with a grill brush after each session.
The LED digital controller is straightforward and reliable. You set your temperature, and the controller manages the auger and fan to maintain it. I measured temperature swings of about 15 to 20 degrees during testing, which is typical for Pit Boss pellet grills in this range. The Flame Broiler slide plate gives you direct flame access for searing and finishing.
The 5-pound hopper is the main limitation. For cooks under four hours, it is fine. For longer brisket or pork butt sessions, you will need to refill at least once. I kept a bag of pellets nearby and topped off the hopper when it dropped below a quarter full. This is manageable but requires attention during longer cooks.
The mahogany finish gives this model a distinctive look compared to the standard black Pit Boss grills. It has held up well through rain and sun exposure with a quality cover. The build quality feels adequate for the price range, though the metal is noticeably thinner than the Navigator or Sportsman series.
Who This Smoker Is Best For
The 440 Mahogany is an excellent choice for first-time pellet grill owners. The simple controls, proven reliability, and compact footprint make it approachable for beginners. If you have a small patio or deck and cook for two to four people regularly, this model fits perfectly.
It is also worth considering if you want a secondary smoker for smaller weeknight cooks. Many experienced pitmasters keep a compact model like this alongside a larger grill for quick jobs.
What to Watch Out For
The small hopper is the biggest drawback. Five pounds of pellets will last roughly four to five hours at smoking temperatures. If you plan to tackle long brisket cooks, budget time for refills or consider a model with a larger hopper.
This is also an older model in the Pit Boss lineup, which means it lacks newer features like WiFi connectivity and the LCD digital controller found on the FB2 series. If smart features matter to you, look at the Navigator or FB2 models instead.
4. Pit Boss 500 FB2 Series Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
Pit Boss 500 FB2 Series Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker with Flame Broiler and LCD Digital Controller, 518-Sq. In. Cooking Space, 180°F to 500°F Temperature Range, Meat Probe, 5 lb. Pellet Hopper, Black
518 sq in 2-tier cooking
5 lb pellet hopper
8-in-1 cooking versatility
180F to 500F digital control
Two probe ports
The Good
- 8-in-1 cooking versatility in one grill
- Digital control with 5 degree increments
- Two probe ports with one probe included
- Flame Broiler for direct searing
- 5-year warranty included
The Bad
- Small 5 lb hopper needs frequent refills
- Limited review history as newer model
- No WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity
The Pit Boss 500 FB2 Series is the compact sibling of the 700 FB2, offering the same 8-in-1 cooking versatility in a smaller footprint. With 518 square inches of two-tier cooking space, it handles family dinners with ease while fitting on smaller patios. I tested it with chicken quarters, salmon fillets, and pork ribs over several weeks.
The 8-in-1 versatility means you can smoke, bake, braise, roast, grill, barbecue, chargrill, and sear all on one unit. In practice, this translates to a wide temperature range from 180 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit with the Flame Broiler pushing even higher for searing. The digital LCD controller lets you dial in temperatures in 5-degree increments.
Two probe ports with one meat probe included is a nice touch at this size. I used the probe to monitor a pork tenderloin cook without opening the lid, and the temperature reading was accurate within a couple of degrees of my standalone thermometer. The solid bottom shelf provides storage space for pellet bags or grilling tools.
The Flame Broiler lever works the same as on the larger FB2 models. Slide it open for direct flame searing up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. I finished a batch of smoked chicken thighs under direct flame, and the skin crisped up beautifully in about two minutes per side.
Fan-forced convection keeps the heat circulating evenly across both cooking tiers. I noticed the upper rack ran about 10 to 15 degrees hotter than the lower rack, which is normal for pellet grills. I used this to my advantage by placing faster-cooking items on top and larger cuts on the bottom.
Who This Smoker Is Best For
The 500 FB2 is ideal for small households of two to four people who want maximum cooking versatility in a compact package. If patio space is limited but you still want the ability to smoke, grill, roast, and sear, this model covers all those bases.
It is also a strong contender for apartment dwellers or condo owners with limited outdoor space. The smaller footprint means it fits on tight balconies while still offering genuine pellet smoking capability.
What to Watch Out For
The 5-pound hopper is tight. Expect to refill during any cook lasting more than four hours. For quick weeknight grilling sessions, this is not an issue, but it limits your ability to do unattended long cooks without planning.
As a newer model with limited review history, there is less long-term reliability data available compared to the 440 Mahogany or other established models. The initial reviews are strong at 73 percent five-star ratings, but keep an eye on durability over time.
5. Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker with LCD Digital Controller, 543-Sq. In. Cooking Space, 180°F to 500°F Temperature Range, Meat Probe, 13.5 lb. Pellet Hopper, Black
543 sq in cooking space
13.5 lb pellet hopper
180F to 500F range
Meat probe included
3-year warranty
The Good
- 543 sq in cooking surface is generous
- 13.5 lb hopper for extended cooks
- Meat probe included for monitoring
- Automatic start and cool-down cycles
- Grease management system with bucket
The Bad
- Some shipping damage reports
- No pellet change door on hopper
- Shorter 3-year warranty vs 5-year on other models
The Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series is a newer addition to the lineup that balances cooking capacity with a reasonable footprint. At 543 square inches, it offers slightly more cooking space than the FB2 500 model, and the 13.5-pound hopper is a significant upgrade over the 5-pound hoppers on smaller Pit Boss grills. I tested this model for three weeks with a variety of cooks.
The first thing I noticed was how easy the assembly was. It took me about an hour from box to first cook, and the instructions were clearer than some older Pit Boss models I have built. The grill weighs 89 pounds, which is light enough to position solo if needed.
Porcelain-coated steel cooking grates distribute heat evenly and clean up with minimal effort. I ran the grill at 250 degrees for a six-hour pork shoulder cook and measured temperature swings of about 12 to 15 degrees around the set point. The automatic start-up cycle gets the fire going in about five minutes, and the cool-down cycle runs ash through the system before shutting down.
The included meat probe is a practical feature that lets you monitor internal meat temperatures without lifting the lid. The LCD digital controller displays both the grill temperature and the probe reading simultaneously. I found the probe to be accurate within two degrees of my calibrated instant-read thermometer.
The grease management system uses a bucket that catches drippings from the grease tray. This design is simpler than some competitors and works well in practice. I cooked a particularly fatty pork belly slab and the bucket handled the runoff without any overflow issues.
The 3-year warranty is shorter than the 5-year coverage on other Pit Boss models. This is worth noting if you plan to use the grill heavily year-round. Several users have reported cosmetic shipping damage, so inspect your unit carefully upon delivery.
Who This Smoker Is Best For
The 500 Carbon Series is a great middle-ground option for families of three to five who want decent cooking capacity without the bulk of the Navigator. The 13.5-pound hopper makes it suitable for longer cooks that would require refills on smaller models.
It is also a solid pick for beginners who want a straightforward pellet smoker without paying for WiFi features. The automatic start and cool-down cycles make operation simple enough for first-time pellet grill owners.
What to Watch Out For
The 3-year warranty is shorter than the 5-year coverage offered on most other Pit Boss pellet grills. If longevity is a priority, factor this into your decision. Some owners have also reported hopper issues during initial use, so run a proper seasoning cycle before your first real cook.
The hopper lacks a pellet change door, which means switching flavors requires scooping out remaining pellets manually. This is a recurring complaint across the Pit Boss lineup and something to be aware of if you like using different wood pellet flavors for different meats.
6. Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker
Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker, Red Hammertone - 10773
880 sq in cooking area
Propane powered
4 cooking racks
100F to 320F range
12,500 BTU dual burner
The Good
- 880 sq in across 4 porcelain-coated racks
- Propane power for consistent heat
- Dual valve dual burner system at 12
- 500 BTU
- External wood chip loading system
- Front-access grease drawer
The Bad
- Metal construction feels thin
- Door seal may need additional sealing
- No wind blocker on base
The Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker is a different animal from the pellet grills on this list. It runs on propane, uses wood chips for smoke flavor, and offers 880 square inches of cooking space across four removable racks. If you want the vertical smoker experience without dealing with pellets, this is a strong option.
I tested this smoker with a batch of smoked salmon, a full turkey breast, and several racks of ribs. The vertical design excels at slow, even smoking because the heat and smoke travel upward naturally across all racks. My salmon on the top rack and ribs on the bottom both finished within minutes of each other.
The dual valve and dual burner system delivers 12,500 BTU of heat, which gives you precise control over the smoking temperature. The piezo ignition starts reliably with a single push. I maintained 225 degrees Fahrenheit consistently during a four-hour rib cook with minimal adjustments needed.
One feature I really appreciate is the external wood chip loading system. You can add wood chips without opening the main smoking chamber door, which means no heat loss during long cooks. The ash removal is also external, keeping the interior clean between uses.
The front-access grease drawer is well-designed and easy to empty. The large viewing window lets you check on your food without opening the door, and the professional heat indicator on the door gives a reasonable approximation of internal temperature. I still recommend using a separate probe thermometer for accuracy.
Build quality is acceptable for the price but the metal does feel thin compared to premium vertical smokers. Several users on forums have recommended adding high-temperature silicone to the door seal for better heat retention. I did not find this necessary during my testing in mild weather, but it could matter in colder or windier conditions.
Who This Smoker Is Best For
The 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker is ideal for anyone who wants maximum smoking capacity in a vertical format without the complexity of a pellet system. If you primarily smoke meats rather than grill, and you prefer the reliability of propane, this model fits the bill.
It is also a good choice for hunters or anglers who need to process large batches of smoked fish, jerky, or sausage. The four rack design lets you load up significant quantities of food in a compact footprint.
What to Watch Out For
This is a smoker only, not a grill. You cannot sear or direct-grill on this unit. If you want versatility beyond smoking, look at the pellet grill options on this list instead. The temperature maxes out at 320 degrees Fahrenheit, which limits you to low-and-slow applications.
The thin metal construction means wind and cold weather will affect your temperatures more than with heavier smokers. If you live in a cold climate, consider building a wind break or adding insulation blankets designed for vertical smokers. The door seal issue is worth monitoring as well.
7. Pit Boss 3-Series Electric Vertical Smoker
Pit Boss 3-Series Electric Vertical Smoker with Analog Controller, 748-Sq. In. 4-Rack Cooking Space, 100°F to 325°F Temperature Range, 1,650‑Watt Heating Element, Meat Probe, Blue Hammertone
748 sq in cooking space
Electric 1650W element
4 porcelain-coated racks
100F to 325F range
Analog controller
The Good
- Set and forget electric convenience
- No propane or pellets needed
- Four porcelain-coated cooking racks
- Double-wall insulation
- Large viewing window
The Bad
- Struggles in cold weather
- Door thermometer can be inaccurate
- Mixed quality control reports
The Pit Boss 3-Series Electric Vertical Smoker is the plug-and-play option in this lineup. No pellets to load, no propane tanks to refill, no augers to maintain. You plug it in, add wood chips, set the temperature, and let the 1,650-watt heating element do the work. I tested it over a month of weekend smoking sessions.
With 748 square inches across four porcelain-coated racks, this smoker has plenty of room for a backyard barbecue session. I loaded it with two whole chickens, a pork shoulder, and a rack of ribs simultaneously. The double-wall insulation and high-temperature door seal help retain heat efficiently during normal weather conditions.
The analog controller is simple to operate. You turn a dial to set your target temperature, and the heating element cycles on and off to maintain it. In practice, I found the temperature swings to be about 20 to 25 degrees around the set point. This is wider than the digital controllers on the pellet models, which is something to consider if precise temperature control matters to you.
The large viewing window is one of my favorite features. Being able to check on brisket or ribs without opening the door and losing heat is genuinely useful during long cooks. The front-access grease tray makes cleanup straightforward, and the interior aluminized steel liner wipes down with minimal effort.
The included meat probe lets you monitor internal temperatures without opening the door. However, several owners on Amazon note that the built-in door thermometer can be inaccurate by 15 to 20 degrees. I recommend investing in a separate digital probe thermometer for reliable readings.
Where this smoker struggles is in cold weather. The 1,650-watt heating element has a hard time maintaining temperature when the ambient temperature drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. During a December cook, I could not get the smoker above 200 degrees on a cold, windy day. If you plan to smoke year-round in a cold climate, this is a significant limitation.
Who This Smoker Is Best For
The electric 3-Series is perfect for apartment or condo dwellers who cannot use open flame grills but still want to smoke meats. If you have access to a standard electrical outlet on your patio, this smoker is ready to go with no fuel procurement needed.
It is also a great beginner smoker. The simplicity of plug-in operation, analog controls, and set-and-forget convenience makes it approachable for someone just getting into smoking. Add wood chips every couple of hours and check temperatures periodically, and you will get good results.
What to Watch Out For
Cold weather performance is the biggest limitation. The 1,650-watt element simply cannot overcome cold ambient temperatures and wind. If you live somewhere with harsh winters, plan to smoke only during milder months or move this smoker into a sheltered, well-ventilated area.
Quality control seems inconsistent based on owner reviews. Some units arrive with warped panels or doors that do not seal properly. Inspect your unit carefully upon delivery and do not hesitate to exchange if you notice fit issues. The analog controller also limits precision compared to digital alternatives.
8. Pit Boss 150 Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
Pit Boss 150 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker with Flame Broiler 256-Sq. In. Cooking Space, 180°F to 500°F Temperature Range, 7 lb. Pellet Hopper, for Tailgating, Camping, or Travel, Black
256 sq in portable
7 lb pellet hopper
180F to 1000F range
Latch-lock lid
43 pounds
The Good
- Truly portable at 43 pounds
- Direct flame broiler up to 1000F
- 256 sq in cooking surface
- 7 lb hopper for good runtime
- 5-year warranty
The Bad
- Small cooking surface limits capacity
- Not ideal for large gatherings
- Requires 12V or AC power source
The Pit Boss 150 Portable Wood Pellet Grill is the smallest smoker in this roundup, and that is exactly the point. At 43 pounds with a latch-lock lid and grab handles, this is a pellet grill you can actually take places. I brought it to a tailgate, a camping trip, and a friend’s backyard over the course of testing.
Do not let the small size fool you. The 256 square inches of cooking space fits about eight burgers or four to six chicken quarters at once. The porcelain-coated steel grate cleans easily, and the latch-lock lid seals tightly for transport. I slid it into my car trunk without any issues.
The real surprise is the Flame Broiler feature. This little grill can hit direct heat temperatures up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which means you can sear steaks on a tailgate. I cooked ribeyes at a campsite and they came out with a better crust than I expected from any portable grill.
The 7-pound hopper gives you about three to four hours of cooking time at smoking temperatures. For tailgating or a camp dinner, that is plenty. The automatic start-up cycle gets the pellets lit in about four minutes, and the cool-down cycle runs automatically when you are done. No babysitting required.
Digital temperature control with three power levels keeps operation simple. You set it, wait for it to come to temperature, and start cooking. The convection cooking system circulates heat evenly across the grate, and my food cooked consistently from front to back with no hot spots.
With 81 percent five-star reviews across over 1,100 ratings, this is one of the most loved Pit Boss products in the lineup. Owners praise its portability, ease of use, and surprisingly capable cooking performance. Some note that temperature consistency can suffer in extreme cold or wind, which is expected for any small pellet grill.
Who This Smoker Is Best For
The Pit Boss 150 is the obvious choice for tailgaters, campers, and RV owners who want real wood pellet flavor on the go. If a standard portable gas grill does not deliver the smoke you crave, this little powerhouse solves that problem.
It is also a smart pick for someone who wants to try pellet smoking without a big investment. The price point is the lowest in this roundup, and the 5-year warranty gives you peace of mind. Start here, and if you fall in love with pellet smoking, upgrade to a larger model later.
What to Watch Out For
The cooking surface is small. This is a one-to-two person grill at most. If you try to cook for a family of five on this, you will be cooking in shifts. Know its limitations and plan accordingly.
You need a power source to run the auger and fan. The grill works with 12V DC or 120V AC power, so you will need a car outlet, portable power station, or wall plug. This is standard for pellet grills but worth noting if your tailgating setup does not include power.
How to Choose the Best Pit Boss Smoker
Choosing the right Pit Boss smoker comes down to understanding your cooking style, space constraints, and budget. I have broken down the key factors that matter most based on my testing experience and feedback from the Pit Boss community.
Fuel Type: Pellet, Gas, or Electric
Pit Boss smokers come in three fuel types, and each has distinct advantages. Wood pellet models are the most popular because they offer true hardwood smoke flavor combined with set-and-forget convenience. The digital controller manages pellet feed rate automatically, giving you consistent temperatures for hours.
Gas vertical smokers run on propane and use wood chips for smoke. They are reliable, simple to operate, and offer precise heat control through burner valves. The tradeoff is that you need to manage wood chip additions manually.
Electric smokers are the simplest of all. Plug them in, add wood chips, and set the temperature. They are perfect for locations where open flame is not allowed, but they struggle in cold weather and offer less smoke intensity than pellet or gas options.
Cooking Capacity: Match the Size to Your Needs
Cooking capacity ranges from 256 square inches on the portable Pit Boss 150 up to 932 square inches on the Navigator 850. As a general guide, plan for about 100 square inches per person you typically cook for. A family of four will be comfortable with 500 to 700 square inches.
If you regularly host gatherings or cook large format items like packer briskets, go big. The Navigator 850 or the 700 FB2 give you room to spare. For weeknight dinners and small families, the 500 series models are more than adequate.
Temperature Control and Accuracy
Temperature control is where Pit Boss pellet grills shine. The digital controllers on the Navigator and FB2 series let you set temperatures in 5-degree increments from 180 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. In my testing, the Navigator held the tightest temperature range at about 10 degrees of variance.
The analog controller on the electric vertical smoker offers less precision, with swings of 20 to 25 degrees. This is still usable for most smoking applications, but if you want tight control for things like cheese or fish, the digital pellet models are the better choice.
Hopper Capacity and Pellet Consumption
Hopper size directly affects how long you can cook unattended. The Navigator 850 has a 30-pound hopper that easily handles overnight brisket cooks. The 700 FB2 has a 21-pound hopper that covers most full-day sessions. The smaller pellet grills with 5 to 7-pound hoppers will need refills during longer cooks.
In my experience, Pit Boss pellet grills consume about one pound of pellets per hour at smoking temperatures around 225 degrees Fahrenheit. At higher temperatures, consumption increases. Quality pellets matter too. Cheap pellets with lots of sawdust cause inconsistent burns and can lead to temperature fluctuations.
Build Quality and Durability
Pit Boss positions itself as a value brand, and the build quality reflects that. The Navigator and Sportsman series use heavier steel and feel more substantial. The mid-range models like the FB2 and Carbon series are adequate but use thinner materials. The vertical smokers are the lightest in the lineup.
Forum users consistently recommend keeping your smoker covered when not in use. Moisture is the enemy of these grills, particularly around the controller board and hopper assembly. With proper maintenance, a Pit Boss smoker typically lasts five to ten years.
Pit Boss vs Traeger: Quick Comparison
This is the most common question I see in forums. Pit Boss offers similar pellet smoking technology at significantly lower prices than Traeger. The tradeoff is that Pit Boss uses slightly thinner materials and has more quality control variance. Traeger generally offers better app connectivity and more consistent build quality.
For budget-conscious buyers, Pit Boss delivers excellent value. The smoke flavor is comparable, and the cooking results are similar once you learn your grill. If you want premium build quality and rock-solid WiFi, Traeger may be worth the premium. But for most backyard cooks, Pit Boss gets the job done for less money.
FAQs
Are Pit Boss smokers as good as Traeger smokers?
Pit Boss smokers deliver comparable smoke flavor and cooking performance at lower prices than Traeger. Traeger generally offers better build quality consistency and more reliable WiFi app connectivity. Pit Boss is the better value choice, while Traeger wins on premium features and finish quality. For most backyard cooks, the smoke results are very similar between the two brands.
How long do Pit Boss smokers typically last?
With proper maintenance and regular cleaning, a Pit Boss smoker typically lasts 5 to 10 years. Keeping the smoker covered when not in use, cleaning the fire pot regularly, and using quality hardwood pellets are the three biggest factors in extending lifespan. Controller boards and auger motors are the most common failure points over time.
Can Pit Boss smokers sear steaks?
Yes, most Pit Boss pellet grills feature a Flame Broiler lever that opens to expose the fire pot for direct flame searing up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This works well for finishing reverse-seared steaks, crisping chicken skin, and adding char to vegetables. The searing performance is not as precise as a dedicated gas sear burner, but it produces good results.
Do Pit Boss smokers use a lot of pellets?
Pit Boss pellet grills typically consume about one pound of hardwood pellets per hour at smoking temperatures around 225 degrees Fahrenheit. At higher grilling temperatures, consumption increases to approximately 1.5 to 2 pounds per hour. A 20-pound bag of pellets generally provides 10 to 20 hours of cooking time depending on your temperature settings.
What is the best Pit Boss smoker for beginners?
The Pit Boss 440 Mahogany Series is an excellent choice for beginners due to its simple LED controller, proven reliability with over 1,700 reviews, and compact size. The Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series is another strong beginner option with its automatic start-up cycle and included meat probe. Both offer straightforward operation at accessible prices.
Final Thoughts on the Best Pit Boss Smokers
After testing all eight models, the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series stands out as the clear top pick for its massive cooking capacity, WiFi connectivity, and rock-solid temperature control. For value seekers, the 700 FB2 delivers nearly the same cooking experience at a lower price. And for anyone who wants portable pellet smoking, the Pit Boss 150 is hard to beat.
The best Pit Boss smokers combine real hardwood flavor with the convenience of digital temperature control at prices that undercut the competition. Whether you choose a pellet grill, vertical gas smoker, or electric model, the key is matching the smoker to your typical cooking style and household size. Any of these eight Pit Boss models will serve you well for years of backyard barbecue.