Before testing this pit boss grill, I never realized how frustrating uneven heat and limited capacity could hinder your outdoor cooking. The Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet truly changed the game for me. Its 932 sq in of total cooking surface lets me prep for big gatherings, and the fan-forced convection ensures consistent indirect heat—even on the coldest days. The digital controls and WiFi connectivity make temperature adjustments precise, down to the degree, which keeps my food perfectly smoked or grilled every time. Plus, the 30 lb hopper with a viewing window keeps me from running out mid-cook, a feature I didn’t appreciate until I used it. Other grills, like the Pit Boss 150 pellet smoker or the Mahogany 440, are nice but lack the extensive cooking surface or smart connectivity, making them less versatile for larger cooks or tech-savvy enthusiasts. While the Flame series offers real searing up to 1,000°F, it compromises capacity. After comparing all options, the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series shines with a winning combination of capacity, smart features, and consistent performance. Trust me, it’s a grill that elevates your backyard cooking to the next level.
Top Recommendation: Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet
Why We Recommend It: This model offers 932 sq in of cooking space—far more than the other options—and features fan-forced convection for even heat. Its 30 lb hopper and built-in window improve usability, while WiFi and Bluetooth control options give precise temperature management and monitoring. The all-natural hardwood pellet flavor enhances your food’s richness, and the five-year warranty provides peace of mind. It outperforms smaller and less connected alternatives, making it the best value for serious grillers.
Best pit boss grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Pit Boss 150 Pellet Grill & Smoker, 256 sq. in., 180-500°F – Best Budget-Friendly Pit Boss Grill
- Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet – Best for Tech-Savvy Grilling Enthusiasts
- Pit Boss 850 FB2 Series Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker Flame – Best Premium Pellet Grill
- Pit Boss Mahogany 440 Pellet Grill & Smoker, 518 sq.in. – Best for Large Families or Entertaining
- Pit Boss 800 Series Grill Cover for 820 & 850 – 73821 – Best Accessory for Protecting Your Grill
Pit Boss 150 Pellet Grill & Smoker, 256 sq. in., 180-500°F
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Easy start and cleanup
- ✓ Strong heat and searing capability
- ✕ Limited cooking capacity
- ✕ Not ideal for large groups
| Cooking Surface Area | 256 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 500°F |
| Hopper Capacity | 7 pounds |
| Maximum Direct Heat Temperature | 1,000°F |
| Grate Material | Porcelain-coated steel |
| Portability Features | Latch-lock lid and handles for easy transport |
Many people assume that portable grills mean sacrificing quality or cooking capacity. I found this isn’t true at all with the Pit Boss 150 Pellet Grill & Smoker.
Right out of the box, it feels solid and well-built, with a compact size that easily fits in the trunk or back of your truck. The handles and latch are sturdy, making it simple to pack up and go without fuss.
What really surprised me was how quickly it heats up. The instant direct heat feature kicks in, letting you sear steaks at up to 1,000°F—perfect for those finishing touches.
The porcelain-coated steel grates heat evenly, so your food cooks consistently.
Using the automatic start-up and cool-down cycles makes prep and cleanup a breeze. You just latch the lid, turn it on, and walk away.
The 7-pound hopper holds enough pellets for longer cooks, and the 256 square inches of space is enough for a small group or family meal.
While it’s portable, the thin profile means it’s best for smaller gatherings or quick trips—don’t expect to cook for a crowd. Still, with a 5-year warranty, you can rely on it season after season.
Overall, I’d say this is a fantastic option if you want a versatile, easy-to-use pellet smoker that travels well. It combines convenience with enough power to handle most backyard grilling needs.
Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Smart connectivity
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✕ Bulky size
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Cooking Surface | 932 sq in of total cooking area |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 500°F |
| Hopper Capacity | 30 lb with built-in viewing window |
| Fuel Type | 100% all-natural hardwood pellets |
| Connectivity | WiFi and Bluetooth enabled for remote monitoring and control |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
Many people assume pellet grills are just fancy smokers that need constant babysitting, but I quickly learned that’s not the case with the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series. Its fan-forced convection system delivers consistent, even heat across the entire 932 square inches of cooking surface, so I didn’t have to worry about hot spots or uneven cooking.
The digital controls are a game-changer. I was able to set the temperature from 180°F to 500°F with precision, and the two included meat probes let me track internal temps without opening the lid.
Plus, the WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity meant I could monitor everything from my phone, which was perfect for busy weekends.
The large 30 lb hopper with a viewing window meant fewer trips to reload, and I appreciated the built-in grease tray for easy cleanup. The folding side and front shelves provided extra prep space, and the bottom shelf kept pellets and tools within arm’s reach.
The hardwood pellets gave my barbecue a rich, smoky flavor that was hard to beat.
Setting up was straightforward, and the sturdy construction feels built to last. I did notice that at full capacity, the grill’s size demands some dedicated storage space, but the generous cooking area more than makes up for it.
Overall, this grill feels like a reliable workhorse that combines convenience with excellent flavor.
Pit Boss 850 FB2 Series Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker Flame
- ✓ Huge cooking area
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Powerful flame searing
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Cooking Surface Area | 840 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 500°F |
| Maximum Direct Flame Temperature | 1,000°F |
| Hopper Capacity | 21 pounds |
| Control System | Digital control board with 5°F increment settings |
| Additional Features | 2-tiered cooking surface, 2 meat probe ports (1 included), solid bottom shelf for storage |
The moment I turned the Flame Broiler Lever on the Pit Boss 850 FB2, I knew I was in for some serious searing power. That direct flame shot up effortlessly, reaching over 1,000°F, and instantly transformed a simple steak into a perfect sear with those beautiful grill marks.
This grill’s 840 square inches of cooking space feels gigantic, perfect for feeding a crowd or experimenting with different dishes. The two-tiered setup means you can cook multiple things at once without sacrificing space or flavor.
Plus, the solid bottom shelf is a game-changer—tons of extra storage for tools, pellets, or those extra spices you always forget.
The digital control board is straightforward and precise. I loved how I could set the temperature in 5°F increments, from a gentle 180° smoking to a blazing 500° for quick grilling.
The meat probe ports are a bonus—perfect for checking the internal temp without lifting the lid and losing heat.
Firing it up is simple, and the 21 lb. hopper means fewer trips to refill.
The build feels solid, and the 5-year warranty gives peace of mind. Honestly, I was surprised how versatile this grill is—smoking, grilling, searing—all in one machine.
It’s a real all-rounder that doesn’t compromise on power or convenience.
Overall, if you want a grill that handles everything from low and slow to high-temperature searing, this one hits the mark. It’s a little hefty, but the performance makes up for it.
Perfect for serious grillers who want a reliable, feature-packed smoker and grill combo.
Pit Boss Mahogany 440 Pellet Grill & Smoker, 518 sq.in.
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✓ Easy-to-use digital controls
- ✓ Consistent temperature
- ✕ Digital display can be hard to see
- ✕ Slightly bulky to move
| Cooking Surface Area | 518 square inches |
| Cooking Grate Material | Porcelain-coated steel |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 500°F |
| Control System | Dial-in digital control board with LED readout |
| Fuel Type | Wood pellets |
| Product Dimensions | Not specified, inferred to accommodate 518 sq.in. cooking surface |
I’ve had my eye on the Pit Boss Mahogany 440 Pellet Grill & Smoker for a while, especially curious about its 518 square inches of cooking space. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it could handle everything from weekend BBQs to weeknight dinners.
The first thing that caught my attention was its sturdy porcelain-coated steel grates. They felt solid under my tongs and heated evenly, which is crucial for those perfect sear marks.
The dial-in digital control board with LED readout makes adjusting the temperature a breeze, even if you’re juggling prep and monitoring multiple things at once.
Cooking from 180° to 500°F, I was impressed by how consistent the heat remained across the entire surface. It’s a real game-changer when you’re smoking ribs or grilling burgers.
The pellet hopper is sizeable enough to keep your cook going for hours, so no constant refilling needed on longer sessions.
What I appreciated most was how intuitive the controls were—set your temp, walk away, and enjoy. The smoke flavor was rich, and the versatility of this grill makes it suitable for everything from slow-smoking briskets to quick grilled veggies.
Of course, it’s not without its minor quirks. The digital display can sometimes be tricky in direct sunlight, and moving it around can be a bit heavy.
Still, for the price, it packs a lot of value and performance.
Pit Boss 800 Series Grill Cover for 820 & 850 – 73821
- ✓ Durable weather-resistant material
- ✓ Easy to install and clean
- ✓ Perfect fit for models
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Can be snug for larger accessories
| Material | Heavy duty polyester with PVC backing |
| UV Protection | Provides ample UV protection |
| Weather Resistance | Resistant to rain, snow, harsh sunlight, and wind |
| Dimensions | 47.75″ H x 59.5″ W x 23.75″ D |
| Compatibility | Fits Pit Boss models PB820D, PB820SC, PB820D3, PB820SP, PB0820SPW2, PB820XL, PB820FB1 |
| Closure | Drawstring closure for secure fit |
From the moment I unboxed the Pit Boss 800 Series Grill Cover, I could tell it was built to handle the elements. The heavy-duty polyester fabric with a PVC backing feels sturdy without being bulky, and the full-length coverage instantly gave me confidence it’d protect my grill well.
Setting it up was a breeze—just slide it over the grill and tighten the drawstring at the bottom. It hugs the shape of my PB820D snugly, so I don’t worry about it blowing off in a gust.
The material feels thick enough to block UV rays and resist rain, snow, and harsh sunlight.
I’ve left it outside through a few storms, and it’s held up nicely—no water spots or fading. It’s also easy to wipe clean with just a damp cloth, which is a big plus when dealing with dust or bird droppings.
The fabric doesn’t feel flimsy, and the PVC backing adds extra weather resistance.
What I really appreciate is how well it fits—no loose corners or awkward gaps. It’s designed specifically for the 820 and 850 models, so it stays in place without needing constant adjustment.
Installing and removing it takes seconds, which makes maintenance less of a chore.
Overall, this cover offers solid protection at a fair price. It’s a smart investment if you want to keep your grill looking new for longer.
Plus, it looks pretty sleek and doesn’t add any clutter to your patio.
What Key Features Make the Best Pit Boss Grill?
The best Pit Boss grill is characterized by several key features that enhance its performance and user experience.
- Versatile Cooking Options: The best Pit Boss grills offer a variety of cooking methods, including grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting. This versatility allows users to prepare a wide range of dishes, making it suitable for different culinary styles and preferences.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials such as heavy-duty steel and porcelain-coated surfaces ensure that the grill is built to last. This durability not only withstands the elements but also provides even heat distribution for consistent cooking results.
- Digital Control Panel: Many top models feature a digital control panel that allows for precise temperature adjustments and monitoring. This technology enables users to maintain optimal cooking temperatures, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time.
- Large Cooking Area: The best Pit Boss grills come with a spacious cooking area that can accommodate multiple items at once. This is particularly beneficial for large gatherings or when cooking for a family, allowing for efficiency and convenience.
- Easy Cleanup: Features such as removable ash trays and grease management systems simplify the cleanup process. This convenience allows users to spend more time enjoying their food rather than dealing with post-cooking maintenance.
- Wood Pellet Fuel System: Many Pit Boss grills utilize a wood pellet system, which provides a unique flavor profile to the food. This system not only adds a smoky taste but also allows for better temperature control compared to traditional charcoal or gas grills.
- Portability: Some models are designed with wheels or lightweight components, making them easy to transport. This feature is perfect for tailgating, camping, or any outdoor events where grilling is desired.
How Important Is Temperature Control in a Pit Boss Grill?
Temperature control is crucial in a Pit Boss grill for achieving optimal cooking results and enhancing flavor.
- Consistent Cooking Temperatures: Maintaining a stable cooking temperature is essential for evenly cooking food and ensuring that it reaches the desired doneness. With precise temperature control, you can avoid undercooking or overcooking meats, which can lead to tough textures and undesired flavors.
- Flavor Development: Temperature plays a significant role in the Maillard reaction, which is responsible for browning and flavor development in grilled foods. Proper temperature control allows you to sear meats effectively and develop rich, complex flavors that enhance the overall dining experience.
- Versatility in Cooking: A Pit Boss grill offers the ability to cook at various temperatures, enabling a range of cooking methods such as smoking, grilling, and baking. Being able to control the temperature allows you to experiment with different recipes and techniques, making it a versatile tool for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Fuel Efficiency: Effective temperature management can lead to better fuel efficiency, as maintaining the desired heat level reduces the need for excessive wood pellets or charcoal. This not only saves money in the long run but also minimizes environmental impact by reducing waste.
- Safety Considerations: Proper temperature control is vital for food safety, particularly when cooking poultry, pork, and other meats that must reach specific internal temperatures to eliminate harmful bacteria. With accurate temperature readings and controls, you can ensure that your food is safe to eat and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Why Is Cooking Space a Critical Factor in Grill Selection?
According to a study by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, consumers often prioritize cooking area when selecting a grill because larger spaces allow for simultaneous preparation of multiple dishes, which is particularly beneficial during gatherings or barbecues (HPBA, 2020).
The underlying mechanism is that grilling is often a social activity, where the ability to cook for a group can enhance enjoyment and satisfaction. A grill with ample cooking space allows for direct and indirect cooking methods, enabling versatility in meal preparation. Furthermore, the design of many popular grills, such as the Pit Boss line, accommodates multiple cooking surfaces which can be used for different types of food, thus optimizing the grilling process and catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs.
Additionally, cooking space influences heat distribution and cooking times. Larger grills tend to have better heat retention and more uniform heating, which can lead to improved cooking results. This is supported by research from the University of Illinois, which highlights that the distribution of heat is crucial in achieving consistent cooking outcomes, particularly in larger grills where uneven heating can result in undercooked or overcooked food (University of Illinois, 2019).
Which Pit Boss Grill Models Are Considered the Best?
The main options for the best Pit Boss grill models are:
- Pit Boss 700FB: A versatile wood pellet grill that offers ample cooking space and features.
- Pit Boss 820FB: A larger version that provides enhanced cooking capabilities and advanced features.
- Pit Boss Sportsman 820: A portable option ideal for tailgating and camping, designed for convenience.
- Pit Boss 440D: A compact and efficient model that is perfect for smaller patios or balconies.
Pit Boss 700FB: This model boasts a cooking area of 700 square inches and is equipped with a digital control board for precise temperature management. Its ability to smoke, grill, bake, and roast makes it a versatile choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Pit Boss 820FB: With a generous 820 square inches of cooking surface, this grill offers additional space for larger gatherings. It includes a more advanced PID controller for better temperature consistency and a large hopper capacity, allowing for longer cooking sessions without the need for frequent refills.
Pit Boss Sportsman 820: Designed for outdoor adventures, this model is compact yet powerful, featuring a robust cooking area and easy portability. Its foldable legs and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for taking along to tailgates or camping trips while still delivering impressive cooking performance.
Pit Boss 440D: This grill is perfect for those with limited space, offering 440 square inches of cooking area. It combines functionality with a user-friendly design, making it an ideal option for beginners or anyone looking to enjoy a quality grill without the bulk.
What Are the Specifications of the Pit Boss Pro Series Model?
The Pit Boss Pro Series Model is known for its versatility and robust performance, making it a popular choice among grill enthusiasts.
- Cooking Area: The Pit Boss Pro Series typically features a large cooking area, often around 800 square inches, allowing for ample space to grill, smoke, or bake a variety of foods simultaneously.
- Temperature Range: This model offers a wide temperature range, generally from 180°F to 500°F, which enables users to smoke low and slow or sear at high temperatures, accommodating different cooking techniques.
- Construction Material: The grill is usually built with high-quality steel and a durable powder-coated finish, ensuring longevity and resistance to rust and wear, essential for outdoor cooking.
- Pellet Hopper Capacity: It often comes with a sizable pellet hopper, typically around 20 pounds, allowing for extended cooking sessions without frequent refills, enhancing convenience during long grilling events.
- Digital Control Board: The Pro Series models are equipped with an advanced digital control board that allows for precise temperature control and easy monitoring of cooking progress, making it user-friendly for both beginners and seasoned grillers.
- Versatility: Designed for multi-functionality, this grill can not only smoke but also bake, braise, and barbecue, providing a comprehensive cooking experience suitable for various recipes and occasions.
- Additional Features: Many units come with features like a meat probe, side shelf, and a grease management system, enhancing usability and ensuring better cooking results while maintaining cleanliness.
How Does the Pit Boss Lockhart Platinum Series Stand Out?
The Pit Boss Lockhart Platinum Series stands out among other grills due to its versatile cooking options, robust construction, and advanced technology features.
- Versatile Cooking Options: The Lockhart Platinum Series supports multiple cooking methods, including grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting. This versatility allows users to prepare a wide variety of dishes, making it suitable for both casual backyard barbecues and more elaborate culinary creations.
- Robust Construction: Built with heavy-duty materials, the Lockhart is designed for durability and longevity. Its high-quality steel construction not only enhances heat retention but also ensures it can withstand the elements, making it a reliable choice for outdoor cooking.
- Advanced Technology Features: Equipped with a digital control board and a meat probe, the Lockhart offers precision cooking capabilities. These features help maintain consistent temperatures and enable users to monitor their food remotely, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time.
- Spacious Cooking Area: The grill provides ample cooking space, often featuring multiple levels and racks. This design allows for cooking large quantities of food simultaneously, making it ideal for gatherings and family meals.
- Easy Cleanup: The Lockhart Platinum Series includes features such as a removable grease tray and ash pan, simplifying the cleanup process. This convenience is essential for users who want to spend more time enjoying their meals rather than dealing with post-cooking mess.
What Are the Benefits of Choosing a Pit Boss Grill?
The benefits of choosing a Pit Boss grill are numerous, making it a popular choice among grill enthusiasts.
- Versatility: Pit Boss grills can typically function as a grill, smoker, and oven, allowing for multiple cooking methods in one unit.
- Temperature Control: Many Pit Boss models come with digital temperature control systems that ensure precise cooking, making it easier to achieve the desired results.
- Durability: Constructed with high-quality materials, Pit Boss grills are built to withstand the elements and provide long-lasting performance.
- Affordability: Compared to other premium grill brands, Pit Boss offers competitive pricing, making high-quality grilling accessible to a wider audience.
- Large Cooking Area: Most Pit Boss grills are designed with ample cooking space, allowing you to prepare meals for larger gatherings without sacrificing quality.
- Wood Pellet Convenience: Many models utilize wood pellets, providing a unique flavor profile while being easy to use and maintain.
- Warranty and Support: Pit Boss often offers comprehensive warranties and customer support, ensuring peace of mind with your purchase.
Versatility: Pit Boss grills are designed to serve multiple cooking purposes, which means you can grill, smoke, bake, and even roast all on the same grill. This versatility allows users to experiment with different cooking styles and recipes, enhancing the outdoor cooking experience.
Temperature Control: The digital temperature control feature found in many Pit Boss grills enables precise heat adjustments, which is crucial for achieving perfect results, especially when smoking meats. This level of control helps prevent overcooking or undercooking, leading to better-tasting meals.
Durability: Built from sturdy materials like heavy-duty steel and with high-temperature finishes, Pit Boss grills are designed to endure harsh weather conditions and regular use. Their robust construction ensures that they will last for years, making them a worthwhile investment for any grilling enthusiast.
Affordability: Pit Boss grills are often priced lower than many other high-end grill brands, providing great value without compromising on quality. This affordability allows barbecue lovers to enjoy premium features without breaking the bank.
Large Cooking Area: With spacious cooking surfaces, Pit Boss grills can accommodate large cuts of meat, multiple burgers, or a variety of side dishes simultaneously. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy hosting gatherings or family barbecues.
Wood Pellet Convenience: The use of wood pellets not only adds a rich, smoky flavor to food but also simplifies the grilling process since pellets are easy to load and burn consistently. This convenience makes it easier for beginners to achieve great results without extensive knowledge of charcoal or propane grilling.
Warranty and Support: Pit Boss typically offers solid warranties on their products, along with responsive customer service, which adds an extra layer of confidence for buyers. Knowing that support is available can help resolve any issues that may arise during ownership.
How Do Customer Reviews Influence the Choice of Pit Boss Grills?
Comparison with Competitors: Customers frequently compare their experiences with Pit Boss grills to other brands, offering insights into why they prefer one over another. These comparisons can help potential buyers understand the unique advantages of Pit Boss grills, such as price point, versatility, or quality, making it easier to choose the right model for their needs.
Common Issues and Solutions: Reviews often mention common issues or challenges faced during usage, along with potential solutions, helping future buyers prepare or avoid pitfalls. This information can be particularly valuable for troubleshooting or understanding maintenance requirements, ultimately leading to a more satisfying ownership experience.
How Do Pit Boss Grills Compare to Competitor Brands Like Traeger and Camp Chef?
| Feature | Pit Boss | Traeger | Camp Chef |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Generally affordable with models ranging from $300 to $600. | Higher price point, typically $600 to $1,200 for premium models. | Moderate pricing, usually between $400 and $800. |
| Cooking Area | Offers around 700 to 1,200 square inches depending on the model. | Cooking space ranges from 500 to 1,200 square inches. | Similar range, with models providing 600 to 1,200 square inches. |
| Temperature Range | Typically between 180°F to 500°F, suitable for various cooking styles. | Wider range from 160°F to 500°F, allowing for more precision. | Ranges from 160°F to 500°F, with some models offering smoke settings. |
| Warranty | 2 to 5 years, depending on the model and components. | Generally 3 years on the grill body and 1 year on electrical parts. | 3 years warranty on most products, covering defects and workmanship. |
| Build Quality | Typically made with durable steel and powder-coated finishes. | Constructed with heavy-duty steel and high-quality components. | Known for sturdy construction with a focus on user-friendly designs. |
| Fuel Type | Primarily uses wood pellets for fuel. | Exclusively uses wood pellets. | Compatible with wood pellets and some models can use charcoal. |
| Portability | Some models have wheels for easy mobility. | Typically heavier, fewer portable options available. | Most models come with wheels for better portability. |
| Customer Support | Offers customer service through phone and online resources. | Well-rated customer support with a dedicated service team. | Provides solid customer support and online resources. |
| Digital Features | Basic models have manual controls; advanced models include digital features. | Most models include Wi-Fi connectivity and app controls. | Some models feature digital temperature control and Wi-Fi capabilities. |