Wood-fired flavor meets modern convenience in outdoor cooking with Pit Boss pellet grills. Whether you’re smoking a brisket low and slow or searing steaks at high heat, these versatile grills deliver authentic BBQ taste using 100% natural hardwood pellets. But with options ranging from compact portable models to large-capacity vertical smokers, choosing the best Pit Boss grill for your needs requires understanding the key differences between horizontal pellet grills and vertical smokers.
In this comprehensive Pit Boss pellet grill reviews guide, we’ll evaluate seven Pit Boss pellet grill models to help you make an informed decision. From entry-level grills perfect for beginners to premium Navigator Series models built for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts, we’ll compare cooking space, temperature control capabilities, and unique features like the innovative Flame Broiler Lever that enables direct flame searing up to 1,000°F. Our Pit Boss pellet grill reviews cover everything from tailgating-friendly portable units to dedicated smoking powerhouses with 24+ hour cook times.
Quick Roundup List
- Best for Beginners: Pit Boss PB440D2 (440 Series)
- Best for Families: Pit Boss PB440FB1
- Best Mid-Range: Pit Boss 71700FB
- Best Large Capacity: Pit Boss PB1150G Navigator
- Best Vertical Smoker (Maximum Capacity): Pit Boss 77550 (5.5 Series)
- Best Vertical Smoker (Compact): Pit Boss PBV3P1
- Best Portable: Pit Boss Rancher Portable
Understanding Pit Boss Pellet Grills: Key Concepts
Before diving into specific models, understanding what sets Pit Boss pellet grills apart helps frame your decision. These grills use 100% natural hardwood pellets as fuel, delivering authentic wood-fired flavor while maintaining precise temperature control through digital controllers. The pellets feed automatically from a hopper into a fire pot, where an igniter starts combustion and a fan regulates airflow to maintain your target temperature.
What Makes Pit Boss Different: The Flame Broiler Lever
The Flame Broiler Lever is Pit Boss’s signature innovation that separates their horizontal grills from competitors. This slide-plate system sits beneath the cooking grates and transforms how you cook. In the closed position, the plate acts as a heat deflector, circulating combustion heat around the plate to create indirect convection heat ideal for smoking, roasting, and baking at 180° to 500°F.
Slide the Flame Broiler Lever open, and you expose a section of cooking grate directly to the fire pot below. This enables direct flame cooking at temperatures up to 1,000°F—perfect for searing steaks, burgers, and chops with restaurant-quality crust and char marks. You can even use both positions simultaneously: smoke ribs on the indirect side while searing steaks over direct flame, a unique advantage that makes Pit Boss horizontal grills truly versatile 8-in-1 cooking machines.
Horizontal Grills vs. Vertical Smokers: Understanding the Options
Pit Boss offers two distinct pellet grill designs, each optimized for different outdoor cooking styles:
Horizontal Pellet Grills feature the familiar side-to-side cooking chamber layout similar to traditional gas or charcoal grills. These models include the Flame Broiler Lever for direct flame access, operate across temperature ranges from 180-500°F (up to 1,000°F for searing), and deliver true 8-in-1 cooking versatility: grill, smoke, bake, roast, sear, braise, BBQ, and char-grill. They’re ideal for varied weekly outdoor cooking—steaks Monday, smoked ribs Saturday, roasted chicken Sunday.
Vertical Pellet Smokers stack cooking racks vertically in a compact footprint, maximizing food capacity per square foot. These dedicated smoking units operate at 150-450°F (no high-heat grilling), feature massive 40+ pound hoppers that enable 24+ hour unattended cooking, and include double-walled construction with blanket insulation for superior heat retention and fuel efficiency. They excel at low-and-slow smoking: brisket, ribs, pork shoulder, and whole chickens.
Product Reviews
Pit Boss PB440D2 (440 Series) – Best for Beginners
The Pit Boss PB440D2 offers the perfect introduction to pellet grilling with 465 square inches of cooking space—enough to feed 4-6 people comfortably. This entry-level model features the signature 8-in-1 cooking versatility that makes Pit Boss grills stand out: grill, smoke, bake, roast, sear, braise, BBQ, and char-grill all on one unit. The intuitive digital control board simplifies temperature control from 180° to 500°F, making it easy for beginners to achieve consistent results in outdoor cooking.
What truly sets this model apart for first-time pellet grillers is the Flame Broiler Lever. This innovative feature allows you to switch between indirect heat for smoking and roasting, or slide the plate to expose food directly to the flame for high-heat searing. Heavy-duty steel construction ensures durability, while two large metal wheels make repositioning easy on your patio or deck.
Highlights
- 465 sq inches total cooking space (341 main + 124 upper rack)
- Temperature range: 180° to 500°F
- Flame Broiler Lever for direct/indirect heat switching
- 8-in-1 cooking versatility
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Two large metal wheels for mobility
Specifications
- Total Cooking Area: 465 square inches
- Temperature Range: 180-500°F
- Hopper Capacity: 5 pounds
- Construction: Heavy-gauge steel
- Cooking Surface: Porcelain coated wire grids
- Warranty: 5 years
Best Use Cases
- Weekend grilling for small families
- Learning pellet grill basics with forgiving temperature control
- Experimenting with different cooking methods
- Balancing quality features without premium complexity
Pit Boss PB440FB1 – Best for Families
The Pit Boss PB440FB1 delivers 518 square inches of cooking space, making it the best Pit Boss grill for regular family cookouts and weekend BBQs. This model elevates the entry-level experience with a dial-in digital control board featuring an easy-to-read LCD screen, giving you precise temperature management from 180-500°F for smoking and grilling, plus direct flame searing capability up to 1,000°F when you activate the built-in flame broiler.
Porcelain coated steel cooking grids provide excellent heat retention and make cleanup effortless—a crucial feature for busy families who want great outdoor cooking results without extensive maintenance. The automatic start and cool down functions add convenience, while the 5-pound hopper capacity provides 4-6 hours of unattended cooking time at moderate temperatures. Backed by a 5-year warranty, this Pit Boss grill comparison favorite demonstrates the brand’s confidence in build quality.
Highlights
- 518 square inches of cooking space
- Temperature range: 180-500°F (direct flame searing up to 1,000°F)
- Dial-in digital control with LCD screen
- Porcelain coated steel cooking grids
- Built-in flame broiler for searing
- Automatic start and cool down
Specifications
- Total Cooking Area: 518 square inches
- Temperature Range: 180-500°F (up to 1,000°F with flame broiler)
- Hopper Capacity: 5 pounds
- Construction: Heavy-gauge steel
- Cooking Surface: Porcelain coated steel grids
- Warranty: 5 years
- Fuel: 100% natural hardwood pellets
Best Use Cases
- Weekly family dinners for 6-8 people
- Weekend BBQs with neighbors
- Versatile outdoor cooking (steaks to ribs to pizza)
- Hosts who value easy cleanup
Pit Boss 71700FB – Best Mid-Range
The Pit Boss 71700FB represents the sweet spot in this Pit Boss grill comparison, offering 700 square inches of total cooking surface with exceptional value. The 700 Series has been perfectly designed to balance size, features, and capability—ideal for grillers ready to expand beyond entry-level models but not needing massive capacity. With a cast-iron cooking surface including an S Tier rack, this grill comfortably serves groups of 4-6 while providing room for multi-zone cooking techniques.
The digitally controlled burn system ensures consistent temperature regulation across the 180° to 500°F range, while the standard flame broiler allows you to slide the plate and sear directly over an open flame. This 8-in-1 grill eliminates the need for propane or natural gas—100% natural hardwood pellets provide exceptional wood-fired taste while heavy-gauge steel components deliver complete structural strength and durability for years of grilling tips and outdoor cooking adventures.
Highlights
- 700 sq. in. total cooking surface
- Temperature range: 180° to 500°F
- Porcelain coated wire grids with upper cooking rack
- Digitally controlled burn system
- Slide plate flame broiler for direct searing
- Fueled by 100% natural Pit Boss wood pellets
- Heavy-gauge steel construction
Specifications
- Total Cooking Area: 700 square inches
- Temperature Range: 180-500°F
- Construction: Heavy-gauge steel
- Cooking Surface: Porcelain coated wire grids
- Controller: Digital temperature control
- Features: Flame broiler, upper rack
- Fuel: 100% natural hardwood pellets
Best Use Cases
- Regular entertaining for 4-6 people
- Multi-zone cooking (searing steaks while roasting vegetables)
- Developing advanced grilling skills
- Outdoor cooking enthusiasts wanting more capacity without massive size
Pit Boss PB1150G Navigator – Best Large Capacity
When you need the best Pit Boss grill for feeding crowds, the Pit Boss PB1150G Navigator delivers an impressive 1,150 square inches of cooking space—enough to handle 10-15 people or competition-style multi-meat cooks. This Navigator Series model represents Pit Boss’s premium tier, featuring professional-grade construction and thoughtful additions like a fitted grill cover (included) and a folding front shelf that provides valuable prep space right at the grill.
The massive cooking surface enables true multi-zone temperature control, allowing you to smoke ribs low and slow on one side while searing steaks over the slide-plate flame broiler on the other. The 180° to 500°F temperature range covers everything from traditional smoking to high-heat grilling, and the included cover protects your investment from the elements year-round. This is outdoor cooking at scale, perfect for holiday gatherings, catering, or ambitious BBQ projects.
Highlights
- 1,150 sq inches total cooking space
- Temperature range: 180° to 500°F
- Navigator Series premium construction
- Fitted grill cover included
- Folding front shelf for prep space
- Slide-plate flame broiler
- Multiple cooking zones possible
Specifications
- Total Cooking Area: 1,150 square inches
- Temperature Range: 180-500°F
- Series: Navigator (premium tier)
- Included Accessories: Fitted cover, folding shelf
- Features: Flame broiler, multi-zone capability
- Construction: Professional-grade steel
Best Use Cases
- Holiday parties and large family gatherings (10-15+ people)
- Hosting neighborhood BBQ competitions
- Catering or cooking for events
- Multiple-meat smoking sessions
- Competition-style BBQ practice
Pit Boss 77550 (5.5 Series) – Best Vertical Smoker (Maximum Capacity)
The Pit Boss 77550 vertical smoker provides an astounding 1,548 square inches of cooking space across five porcelain coated cooking grids. This copper-finished smoking powerhouse is built for marathon smoking sessions, featuring a 40+ pound hopper that delivers 24+ hours of continuous use at low smoking temperatures—perfect for overnight brisket cooks or all-day pulled pork sessions where maintaining consistent temperature control is critical.
Double-walled construction with blanket insulation ensures superior heat retention and fuel efficiency, even in cold weather outdoor cooking conditions. The fully programmable digital controller takes the guesswork out of temperature management, while the auto-start 300 watt igniter gets you smoking quickly. A digital LED readout and included meat probe let you monitor both chamber and internal meat temperatures without opening the door and losing precious heat.
Highlights
- 1,548 sq inches (5 racks) of cooking space
- Temperature range: 150-450°F
- 40+ lb hopper (24+ hours of use)
- Five porcelain coated cooking grids
- Fully programmable digital controller
- Double-walled construction with blanket insulation
- Auto-start 300 watt igniter
- Digital LED readout and meat probe
Specifications
- Total Cooking Area: 1,548 square inches
- Number of Racks: 5 porcelain coated grids
- Temperature Range: 150-450°F
- Hopper Capacity: 40+ pounds
- Cook Time: 24+ hours at smoking temperatures
- Construction: Double-walled with insulation
- Controller: Fully programmable digital
- Igniter: 300 watt auto-start
- Included: Digital LED readout, meat probe
Best Use Cases
- Low and slow smoking (brisket, pork shoulder, ribs)
- Extended cook times (12-24+ hours)
- Maximum food capacity smoking
- Batch cooking for meal prep or events
- Cold weather outdoor cooking
Pit Boss PBV3P1 – Best Vertical Smoker (Compact)
The Pit Boss PBV3P1 offers 901 square inches of cooking space across four porcelain coated grids in a more compact 3.5 cu ft vertical design. This model is ideal for outdoor cooking enthusiasts with space constraints—perfect for apartment or condo patios, smaller decks, or dedicated smoking stations where you want serious capacity without the full footprint of the 5.5 Series.
Like its larger sibling, the PBV3P1 features a 40+ pound hopper for 24+ hour cook times, double-walled construction for heat retention, and a fully programmable digital controller with LED readout and meat probe. The four-rack configuration provides ample space for multiple briskets, several racks of ribs, or whole chickens, making it the best Pit Boss grill for dedicated smoking in tighter spaces.
Highlights
- 901 sq inches (4 racks) cooking space
- Temperature range: 150-450°F
- 40+ lb hopper (24+ hours of use)
- 3.5 cu ft capacity vertical smoker
- Four porcelain coated cooking grids
- Fully programmable digital controller
- Double-walled construction
- Auto-start igniter
- Digital LED readout and meat probe
Specifications
- Total Cooking Area: 901 square inches
- Number of Racks: 4 porcelain coated grids
- Capacity: 3.5 cubic feet
- Temperature Range: 150-450°F
- Hopper Capacity: 40+ pounds
- Cook Time: 24+ hours at smoking temperatures
- Construction: Double-walled
- Controller: Fully programmable digital
- Included: LED readout, meat probe
Best Use Cases
- Apartment/condo outdoor spaces
- Dedicated smoking (not grilling)
- Space-conscious BBQ enthusiasts
- Extended low-temperature cooks
Pit Boss Rancher Portable – Best Portable
The Pit Boss Rancher Portable proves that authentic wood pellet flavor doesn’t require staying home. This R-Series grill delivers surprisingly spacious 514 square inches of cooking surface in a portable package with collapsible folding legs—you can set up and be grilling in seconds, whether you’re at a tailgate party, camping trip, RV site, or beach bonfire.
Despite its portable design, the Rancher doesn’t compromise on performance. The innovative Flame Broiler Lever provides direct flame searing capability up to 1,000°F, while the dial-in digital control board with LED read-out gives you precise temperature management. The 5lb hardwood pellet hopper provides sufficient fuel for a full tailgate event (4-6 hours of cooking time), and the compact design fits easily in most vehicle trunks or truck beds for transport.
From parties to sporting events to camping adventures, the Rancher brings authentic Pit Boss pellet grill performance anywhere outdoor cooking calls. On the ranch, in the city, on the farm, or on your patio—you call the shots because you are The Pit Boss.
Highlights
- 514 square inches on-the-go cooking surface
- Collapsible folding legs for transport
- 5lb hardwood pellet hopper
- Flame Broiler Lever (direct flame searing up to 1,000°F)
- Dial-in digital control board with LED read-out
- R-Series portable design
- Compact for vehicle transport
- 100% natural wood pellet fuel
Specifications
- Total Cooking Area: 514 square inches
- Design: Collapsible folding legs
- Hopper Capacity: 5 pounds
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours per hopper
- Temperature Range: Full range with flame broiler to 1,000°F
- Controller: Digital with LED display
- Series: R-Series (portable)
- Transport: Fits in most vehicles
Best Use Cases
- Tailgating at sporting events
- Camping and RV cooking
- Beach BBQs and outdoor parties
- Small patio/balcony outdoor cooking
- Mobile catering or pop-up events
Pit Boss Comparison: Horizontal vs Vertical Smokers
Understanding the differences between horizontal pellet grills and vertical smokers is crucial for choosing the best Pit Boss grill for your outdoor cooking style. This comparison breaks down the key distinctions:
| Feature | Horizontal Pellet Grills | Vertical Smokers |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Grilling + smoking versatility (8-in-1 cooking) | Dedicated low & slow smoking |
| Temperature Range | 180-500°F (up to 1,000°F with flame broiler) | 150-450°F |
| Cooking Style | Direct & indirect heat options | Indirect heat only |
| Space Efficiency | Wider footprint | Compact vertical design |
| Capacity Range | 465-1,150 sq inches | 901-1,548 sq inches |
| Best For | Weekly cooking, grilling variety, entertaining | Smoking marathons, batch cooking, meal prep |
| Hopper Size | 5-20 lbs (4-12 hours) | 40+ lbs (24+ hours) |
| Unique Features | Flame Broiler Lever, high-heat searing | Multiple racks, double-wall insulation |
| Typical Models | PB440D2, PB440FB1, 700FB, Navigator | 77550, PBV3P1 |
Choosing Between Horizontal and Vertical
Horizontal pellet grills offer unmatched versatility for outdoor cooking. The 8-in-1 functionality (grill, smoke, bake, roast, sear, braise, BBQ, char-grill) means you can handle any recipe, from high-heat seared steaks to low-and-slow smoked ribs. The Flame Broiler Lever is a game-changer, allowing you to switch from indirect smoking heat to direct flame exposure up to 1,000°F—something vertical smokers simply cannot do.
Vertical smokers excel when your passion is traditional BBQ smoking. The compact vertical footprint maximizes cooking space while minimizing the area needed on your patio or deck. Double-walled construction with insulation provides superior heat retention and fuel efficiency, especially important for outdoor cooking in cold weather. The massive 40+ pound hoppers enable truly hands-off cooking time—fill the hopper once and smoke for 24+ hours without refueling.
Temperature control differences matter too. Horizontal grills’ 180-500°F range (plus searing capability) covers grilling tips for everything from pizza to vegetables to steaks. Vertical smokers’ 150-450°F range is purpose-built for low-temperature smoking where recipes call for 225-275°F for hours on end.
Pit Boss vs Traeger: Brand Comparison
When researching Pit Boss pellet grill reviews, you’ll inevitably encounter Pit Boss vs Traeger comparisons—Traeger pioneered pellet grills in the late 1980s and remains the category leader. Both deliver authentic wood-fired flavor, but they take different approaches to features, build quality, and value. Here’s an honest comparison based on extensive testing to help you decide.
Build Quality & Materials
Both Pit Boss and Traeger use heavy-gauge steel construction for durability and structural integrity. Pit Boss standardizes porcelain coated grids across most models, which provide excellent heat retention and easy cleanup. Traeger emphasizes stainless steel components on their premium Ironwood and Timberline series, though their entry-level Pro series uses comparable materials to Pit Boss.
In terms of long-term outdoor cooking durability, both brands build grills meant to last years with proper maintenance. Pit Boss products are made in the USA and backed by a 5-year warranty. Traeger offers 7-10 year warranties depending on the model, reflecting their confidence in build quality.
Feature Comparison
The most significant feature difference is Pit Boss’s Flame Broiler Lever—a slide-plate system that gives you direct flame access for searing up to 1,000°F. This unique capability enables true 8-in-1 versatility on Pit Boss horizontal grills. You can smoke ribs at 225°F for six hours, then slide the broiler plate and sear steaks at 700°F+ for the perfect crust. Traeger grills lack this direct flame option, topping out at 500°F for indirect cooking.
Traeger’s standout feature is WiFIRE technology on Ironwood and Timberline models—integrated WiFi and Bluetooth that let you control and monitor the grill remotely through their smartphone app. The app integration is seamless, with features like temperature graphs, cooking estimates, and alerts. Some Pit Boss models offer WiFi/Bluetooth capability, but it’s not as widespread across their lineup.
Temperature range is similar: both brands’ standard models operate from 180-500°F, perfect for smoking, roasting, and baking. Pit Boss pulls ahead with flame broiler models that reach 1,000°F for searing. Traeger maintains their traditional indirect-only design across all models.
Technology & Controls
Pit Boss equips most grills with digital LED controllers that are straightforward and reliable. You set your target temperature on the dial, and the controller manages the pellet feed rate to maintain it. Some Pit Boss models include WiFi/Bluetooth connectivity, meat probe monitoring, and app control, though it’s not standard across all price points.
Traeger positions technology as a core differentiator. Their Pro series uses a basic digital controller similar to Pit Boss. The Ironwood and Timberline series feature WiFIRE controllers with full WiFi/Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone app integration, and advanced features like Super Smoke mode for enhanced flavor. The app experience is polished and user-friendly, a priority for Traeger’s product development.
Both brands deliver accurate temperature control for consistent results in outdoor cooking. The difference is whether you value direct flame searing (Pit Boss) or premium app connectivity (Traeger).
Value Proposition
This comparison reveals stark differences in value positioning. Pit Boss offers features from entry-level through premium capacity without premium pricing. You can get a capable 700 square inch grill with flame broiler, digital controls, and quality construction at mid-tier pricing. The brand emphasizes delivering professional-grade features and Made in USA quality across all price points.
Traeger established pellet grilling and maintains their position as the heritage brand. Their Pro series competes at entry-level pricing, Ironwood targets serious enthusiasts, and Timberline serves as the ultimate outdoor kitchen solution with all-in-one designs including induction burners, storage cabinets, and prep space. Traeger’s longer warranties (7-10 years vs. Pit Boss’s 5 years) reflect this premium positioning.
Who Should Choose Pit Boss
Choose Pit Boss pellet grills if you want:
- Flame searing capability: The Flame Broiler Lever enables direct flame cooking up to 1,000°F, perfect for steaks, burgers, and grilling tips that require high heat
- Versatile 8-in-1 cooking: True multi-method outdoor cooking on a single unit
- Value-oriented features: Professional-grade capabilities across all price points
- Made in USA priority: Pit Boss manufactures in the United States
- Straightforward controls: Reliable digital temperature control without smartphone dependency
The best Pit Boss grill models deliver exceptional cooking performance and durability without requiring you to navigate complex technology or pay premium pricing for features you may not need.
Who Should Choose Traeger
Choose Traeger pellet grills if you want:
- Established brand legacy: Traeger invented pellet grills and maintains industry leadership
- WiFi/app integration: Seamless smartphone control and monitoring on Ironwood/Timberline models
- Longer warranties: 7-10 year coverage depending on model
- Premium outdoor kitchen solutions: Timberline series includes induction cooking, storage, and prep space
- Traditional pellet smoking: Indirect heat cooking without direct flame exposure
Traeger excels if you prioritize technology integration and don’t need extreme high-heat searing for your outdoor cooking style.
Bottom Line
Both Pit Boss and Traeger deliver authentic wood-fired flavor using 100% natural hardwood pellets. Your choice comes down to cooking priorities and value expectations.
Pit Boss excels in versatility and flame broiling. The ability to switch between low-and-slow smoking and direct flame searing up to 1,000°F on the same grill is unmatched. This comparison favorite offers professional features at accessible price points, with Made in USA construction and solid 5-year warranty coverage.
Traeger leads in connectivity and brand heritage. If remote smartphone control, advanced app features, and the longest industry warranties matter most for your outdoor cooking investment, Traeger’s premium models deliver. Their pioneering legacy and focused dedication to pellet grill innovation shows in the refined user experience.
Neither choice is wrong—the best Pit Boss grill or Traeger for you depends on whether you value cooking versatility and direct flame capability (Pit Boss) or connectivity and established brand legacy (Traeger). Both brands will transform your outdoor cooking with delicious wood-fired results.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Your Pit Boss Grill
Selecting the right Pit Boss model requires matching grill capabilities to your outdoor cooking style, space, and typical group size. This buying guide breaks down the critical factors to help you choose confidently.
Cooking Space Considerations
Cooking capacity directly impacts how many people you can feed and what types of outdoor cooking you can tackle:
- 450-550 sq inches: Ideal for 4-6 people (small families, couples). Models like PB440D2 and PB440FB1 fit this category, perfect for weekly family dinners and weekend grilling.
- 650-800 sq inches: Serves 6-8 people (active entertainers). The 700FB provides room for multiple protein types simultaneously plus sides, great for regular outdoor cooking gatherings.
- 900-1,200 sq inches: Feeds 10-15 people (large gatherings). The Navigator PB1150G handles holiday parties, neighborhood BBQs, and competition-style cooking with multiple zones.
- 1,500+ sq inches: Maximum capacity for serious smoking (15-20+ people). Vertical smokers like the 77550 with 1,548 sq inches across 5 racks excel at batch cooking, meal prep, and catering.
Temperature Range Importance
Different temperature ranges enable different outdoor cooking techniques:
- Low temp (150-180°F): Traditional smoking, jerky, cold smoking cheese. Essential for authentic BBQ recipes requiring extended cooking time at gentle heat.
- Mid temp (225-275°F): BBQ sweet spot for ribs, brisket, pork shoulder. This range develops bark, renders fat, and creates smoke rings—the foundation of great BBQ.
- High temp (400-500°F): Grilling, roasting, baking. Enables chicken with crispy skin, roasted vegetables, and even pizza on your pellet grill.
- Flame broiler capability: Up to 1,000°F for searing steaks, burgers, and chops. The Flame Broiler Lever on Pit Boss horizontal grills provides restaurant-quality crust and char marks.
Essential Features
Beyond size and temperature, these features significantly impact your outdoor cooking experience:
- Flame Broiler Lever: The versatility game-changer. Slide between indirect heat for smoking and direct flame for searing without moving food or changing grills.
- Digital temperature control: Precision matters. Digital controllers maintain consistent temperatures critical for low-and-slow smoking and repeatable results.
- Hopper capacity: Determines cooking time between refills. 5 lbs = 4-6 hours, 20 lbs = 12-15 hours, 40+ lbs = 24+ hours at smoking temperatures.
- Porcelain coated grids: Superior heat retention, even cooking, and easy cleanup compared to bare steel grates.
- Automatic ignition: Convenience feature that eliminates manual lighting. Push a button and the grill handles startup automatically.
- Meat probe included: Internal temperature monitoring without opening the lid and losing heat.
Choosing Between Horizontal and Vertical
This decision shapes your entire outdoor cooking experience. Here’s a clear framework:
Choose Horizontal Pellet Grills If:
- Primary use is grilling with occasional smoking (steaks, burgers, chicken, vegetables alongside BBQ)
- You want direct flame searing capability up to 1,000°F for perfect crust on meats
- You prefer 8-in-1 cooking versatility (grill, smoke, bake, roast, sear, braise, BBQ, char-grill)
- You have a weekly outdoor cooking routine with varied recipes and techniques
- Your space allows a wider footprint (horizontal grills are wider but shorter)
- You value familiar grill layout and operation similar to traditional gas/charcoal grills
Choose Vertical Smokers If:
- You’re dedicated to low and slow smoking (brisket, ribs, pork shoulder, whole chickens)
- You need maximum capacity per square foot of patio/deck space (vertical design is space-efficient)
- You plan extended 12-24 hour cooks where large hopper capacity and fuel efficiency matter
- You have limited patio/deck space (vertical footprint is much smaller)
- You primarily smoke meats rather than grill and don’t need high-heat searing
- You want set-it-and-forget-it smoking with minimal intervention during long cooking sessions
Feature Categories by Investment Level
Entry-Level Category
Features to expect:
- 450-550 sq inches cooking space
- Basic digital controls with LED display
- 8-in-1 cooking versatility
- Flame broiler capability on horizontal models
- 5-year warranty
- Porcelain coated grids
- Automatic ignition
- Temperature range: 180-500°F (up to 1,000°F with broiler)
Best for: First pellet grill, learning curve, occasional outdoor cooking, small families
Representative Models: PB440D2, PB440FB1
Mid-Range Category
Additional features:
- 650-800 sq inches cooking space
- Enhanced digital controls with LCD screen
- Improved build quality and materials
- Upper cooking racks included
- Better temperature consistency
- S Tier rack or additional cooking surfaces
- Higher-quality components and construction
Best for: Regular outdoor cooks, growing families, skill development, active entertainers
Representative Models: 71700FB (700 Series)
Premium Category
Top-tier features:
- 900-1,200+ sq inches cooking space
- Navigator/Pro Series construction
- WiFi/Bluetooth capable (select models)
- Fitted covers included
- Folding shelves and work surfaces
- Professional-grade components
- Premium finish and materials
- Multi-zone temperature capabilities
Best for: Serious outdoor cooking, frequent entertaining, competitions, advanced techniques
Representative Models: PB1150G Navigator, Vertical Smokers (capacity-focused premium)
Portable/Specialized Category
Specialized features:
- 500+ sq inches (impressive for portable)
- Collapsible/folding design
- Compact hopper (5 lbs)
- Full temperature range maintained
- Transport-friendly size and weight
- Flame broiler capability retained
Best for: Tailgating, RV trips, camping, events, mobile outdoor cooking
Representative Models: Rancher Portable
Pros and Cons by Grill Type
Horizontal Pellet Grills
Pros:
- Versatile 8-in-1 cooking (grill, smoke, bake, roast, sear, braise, BBQ, char-grill)
- Flame broiler enables searing up to 1,000°F for perfect crust
- Familiar grill layout and operation
- Direct and indirect heat options on same cooking surface
- Wide temperature range (180-1,000°F depending on model)
- Excellent for weekly varied outdoor cooking
Cons:
- Larger footprint requires more patio/deck space
- Shorter cooking time per hopper (4-12 hours typical)
- Requires more frequent pellet refills for long smoking sessions
- Less fuel-efficient than vertical smokers for low-temperature smoking
Vertical Pellet Smokers
Pros:
- Maximum food capacity per square foot (space-efficient vertical design)
- 24+ hour cooking time with 40+ lb hopper
- Superior heat retention with double-wall construction
- Dedicated smoking performance with multiple racks
- Set-it-and-forget-it operation for marathon smoking sessions
- Excellent fuel efficiency at smoking temperatures
- Perfect for batch cooking and meal prep
Cons:
- No direct grilling capability (indirect heat only)
- Limited to smoking and baking (no high-heat searing)
- Vertical design less familiar than traditional grill layout
- Temperature range tops out at 450°F (no flame broiler option)
- Better for dedicated smoking than varied outdoor cooking
Portable Models
Pros:
- Collapsible design for easy transport to tailgates, camping, events
- Authentic pellet flavor anywhere outdoor cooking calls
- Surprising cooking capacity (500+ sq inches) for portable size
- Full flame broiler capability up to 1,000°F retained
- Fits in vehicle trunk or truck bed
- Perfect for RVs and mobile outdoor cooking
Cons:
- Smaller hopper (5 lbs) means frequent refills (4-6 hours max)
- Limited to 4-6 people cooking capacity
- Fewer features than full-size models
- Portability prioritized over cooking space and hopper size
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Pit Boss pellet grill for beginners?
The Pit Boss PB440D2 or PB440FB1 offer the ideal entry point for first-time pellet grillers. With 465-518 square inches of cooking space, these entry-level models provide enough capacity for small families (4-6 people) while keeping operation straightforward. The automatic ignition system and simple digital controls make temperature control easy to master, while the included Flame Broiler Lever lets you explore both indirect smoking and direct flame searing techniques. The 8-in-1 cooking versatility means you can experiment with different outdoor cooking methods (grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, searing, braising, BBQ, and char-grilling) all on one grill as you develop your skills.
Can you use any wood pellets in a Pit Boss grill?
Yes, Pit Boss pellet grills work with any food-grade hardwood pellets from any manufacturer—you’re not locked into a proprietary pellet system. However, Pit Boss 100% natural hardwood pellets are specifically designed for optimal performance in their grills. These pellets are locally sourced, heat-pressed with natural lignin (containing no artificial additives or fillers), and engineered to burn hotter and cleaner than generic pellets. They produce the signature “blue” smoke flavor prized in BBQ recipes while generating minimal ash, which means less cleanup and more consistent temperature control. Never use home heating pellets or non-wood pellets, as these can damage your grill and produce unsafe fumes.
How does the Flame Broiler Lever work on Pit Boss grills?
The Flame Broiler Lever is Pit Boss’s signature feature that enables true 8-in-1 cooking versatility. It’s a slide-plate system located beneath the cooking grates. In the closed position, the plate acts as a heat deflector—pellet combustion heat circulates around the plate, creating indirect convection heat ideal for smoking, roasting, and baking at temperatures from 180° to 500°F. When you slide the Flame Broiler Lever to the open position, you expose a section of the cooking grate directly to the fire pot below, allowing food to cook over direct flame at temperatures up to 1,000°F. This gives you restaurant-quality searing capability for steaks, burgers, and chops. You can even use both positions simultaneously—smoke ribs on the indirect side while searing steaks on the direct flame side, a unique advantage in outdoor cooking.
What’s the difference between Pit Boss horizontal grills and vertical smokers?
Horizontal pellet grills (PB440 Series, 700FB, Navigator) and vertical smokers (77550, PBV3P1) serve different primary outdoor cooking purposes. Horizontal grills offer versatile grilling and smoking with the Flame Broiler capability, temperature ranges from 180-500°F (up to 1,000°F for searing), and a familiar grill layout similar to gas or charcoal grills. They excel at weekly varied cooking—steaks Monday, smoked ribs Saturday, roasted chicken Sunday.
Vertical smokers are dedicated low-and-slow smoking machines. They feature a compact vertical design that maximizes food capacity per square foot (perfect for limited patio space), operate at 150-450°F (no high-heat grilling), include multiple racks for batch cooking, and have massive 40+ pound hoppers that enable 24+ hour unattended cooking sessions. The double-walled construction with blanket insulation provides superior heat retention and fuel efficiency.
Choose horizontal grills for everyday outdoor cooking versatility. Choose vertical smokers if you’re passionate about traditional smoking and want maximum capacity with minimal space requirements.
How long does a hopper of pellets last in a Pit Boss grill?
Pellet consumption depends on hopper size, cooking temperature, and weather conditions. A 5-pound hopper (standard on 440 Series and Rancher Portable) typically provides 4-6 hours of cooking time at moderate temperatures (250-350°F). The 20-pound hopper on the 700FB extends this to 12-15 hours at similar temperatures. Vertical smokers with 40+ pound hoppers can run 24+ hours unattended when smoking at low temperatures (225-250°F).
Higher cooking temperatures consume pellets faster—grilling at 450°F will deplete a hopper more quickly than smoking at 225°F. Cold weather outdoor cooking also increases pellet consumption as the grill works harder to maintain temperature. Wind, humidity, and how often you open the lid also affect efficiency. For long overnight brisket cooks or competition BBQ, vertical smokers’ massive hoppers eliminate mid-cook refueling stress.
Do Pit Boss pellet grills need to be seasoned before first use?
Yes, seasoning your Pit Boss grill before the first cook is essential for optimal performance and longevity. This process burns off any manufacturing residues, protective oils, or warehouse dust while coating the internal surfaces with a protective layer that prevents rust. To season your grill: Load pellets into the hopper, run the grill at 350-400°F for 30-45 minutes with the lid closed but no food inside. Some experienced outdoor cooking enthusiasts recommend applying a light coat of high-heat cooking oil to the grates during this process for enhanced protection. After seasoning, let the grill cool completely, then wipe down the grates. Your Pit Boss is now ready for its first cook with optimal temperature control and clean smoke flavor.
Can you grill in cold weather with a Pit Boss?
Absolutely—Pit Boss pellet grills perform well in cold weather outdoor cooking, though they will consume more pellets to maintain target temperatures in extreme conditions. Vertical smokers with double-walled construction and blanket insulation excel in winter, as the insulation minimizes heat loss even in freezing temperatures. For horizontal models in very cold weather (below 32°F), consider using a thermal blanket or insulated grill cover designed for pellet grills to improve temperature control and reduce pellet consumption. Position the grill in a wind-protected area of your patio, as wind accelerates heat loss. Many outdoor cooking enthusiasts successfully smoke brisket and ribs in snow and sub-zero temperatures—the pellet grill’s automatic temperature regulation handles the heavy lifting, you just need to account for increased fuel usage and possibly extending cooking time slightly.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing seven Pit Boss models across all categories—from entry-level grills to premium Navigator Series and dedicated vertical smokers to portable tailgating units—these comprehensive Pit Boss pellet grill reviews demonstrate that the best Pit Boss grill for you depends on matching features to your outdoor cooking style and needs.
For beginners taking their first step into pellet grilling, the PB440D2 or PB440FB1 provide the ideal foundation with manageable size, straightforward controls, and the versatile Flame Broiler that lets you explore multiple cooking methods. Families cooking regularly will appreciate the 700FB’s expanded 700 square inch capacity and industry-leading value per square inch. When you need to feed crowds or pursue competition-level BBQ, the Navigator PB1150G delivers 1,150 square inches with professional-grade features and included accessories.
Those dedicated to low and slow smoking should seriously consider the vertical smoker models—the 77550 and PBV3P1 offer maximum food capacity in compact footprints, with 40+ pound hoppers enabling 24+ hour cook times perfect for brisket, pork shoulder, and marathon smoking sessions. And for tailgating, camping, or RV adventures, the Rancher Portable proves you can enjoy authentic wood pellet flavor anywhere without sacrificing the signature Flame Broiler searing capability.
Across all these Pit Boss pellet grill reviews, common threads emerge: the versatility winner is horizontal grills with Flame Broiler Lever, enabling everything from low-temperature smoking to 1,000°F searing. The capacity champion is vertical smokers, packing maximum cooking space into minimal patio footprint. And the value proposition remains consistent—Pit Boss delivers professional-grade features across every price tier, backed by 5-year warranties and Made in USA quality.
Whichever Pit Boss pellet grill you choose, you’re investing in authentic wood-fired flavor powered by 100% natural hardwood pellets. The learning curve is gentle thanks to digital temperature control and automatic ignition. Whether you’re mastering grilling tips for perfect steaks, exploring traditional BBQ recipes for competition-worthy ribs, or simply elevating family dinners with the unique taste of wood smoke, you’re choosing the right tool for memorable outdoor cooking experiences.
Make your selection based on your primary outdoor cooking needs—versatility or specialized smoking, capacity or portability, entry-level simplicity or premium features. Any Pit Boss model will transform your backyard into a destination for incredible wood-fired food. Now get grilling.
Contents
