7 Best Z Grills Wood Pellet Grills (2025): Complete Buyer’s Guide

Z Grills pellet grills combine exceptional value with professional-quality features, making them one of the fastest-growing pellet smoker brands on the market. With their ability to smoke, grill, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ all in one unit, Z Grills pellet smokers offer versatility that traditional grills simply can’t match.

In this comprehensive Z Grills review, we’ll examine the top seven Z Grills models of 2025, breaking down their features, benefits, and what sets them apart from competitors. Whether you’re looking for your first pellet grill or upgrading to a more advanced model, our in-depth analysis will help you find the perfect Z Grills pellet smoker for your needs.

The Z Grills Story: Quality Meets Affordability

Z Grills began making waves in the pellet grill industry in 2017 when they launched through a successful crowdfunding campaign that raised nearly half a million dollars from over 1,400 investors. However, their expertise in grill manufacturing goes back much further. For over 30 years, Z Grills was the behind-the-scenes manufacturer for many leading pellet grill brands, including Traeger.

Based in California with manufacturing facilities in China, Z Grills decided to cut out the middleman and bring their high-quality grills directly to consumers at significantly reduced prices. Their mission statement—“We provide high-quality pellet grills with honest prices to let everyone enjoy the wood-fired flavor”—perfectly captures their business approach.

This direct-to-consumer model has allowed Z Grills to offer features and build quality comparable to grills costing twice as much. Today, Z Grills offers an extensive range of pellet smokers across various sizes and price points, from portable models ideal for camping to large, feature-rich units perfect for serious backyard chefs.

What is a Z Grills Wood Pellet Grill?

Z Grills are wood pellet grills that combine the functionality of a traditional smoker, gas grill, and convection oven in one versatile unit. Unlike charcoal or gas grills, Z Grills use 100% natural wood pellets to deliver authentic wood-fired flavor while offering precise temperature control and consistent cooking results.

How Z Grills Work

Z Grills operate using a simple yet effective system:

1. Wood Pellet Storage: Hardwood pellets are stored in a hopper on the side of the grill.
2. Automated Feeding: An auger automatically feeds pellets from the hopper to the firepot as needed.
3. Controlled Combustion: An electric igniter lights the pellets, and a fan circulates heat and smoke throughout the cooking chamber.
4. Temperature Regulation: Digital controllers maintain your chosen temperature by adjusting the rate at which pellets are fed into the firepot.

This automated system creates a “set it and forget it” cooking experience that delivers consistent results without constant monitoring or temperature adjustments.

Key Benefits of Z Grills

• Versatility: 8-in-1 functionality allows you to smoke, grill, bake, roast, sear, braise, barbecue, and char-grill.
• Precise Temperature Control: Digital PID controllers maintain consistent temperatures between 180°F and 450°F.
• Authentic Flavor: 100% hardwood pellets impart rich, smoky flavor to your food.
• Convenience: Automated pellet feeding and temperature control make Z Grills incredibly easy to use.
• Value: Z Grills offer features comparable to premium brands at more accessible price points.

Best Z Grills Wood Pellet Grills of 2025

Z Grills 700D6E – Best Overall Z Grill

The Z Grills 700D4E stands as our top recommendation, delivering premium features and excellent performance at a mid-range price point. This model represents the sweet spot in the Z Grills lineup, offering the perfect balance of cooking space, build quality, and advanced features.

The 700D6E features double-wall insulation with a 2.0mm thick stainless steel lid, providing superior heat retention and consistent temperatures even in challenging weather conditions. The PID 2.1 intelligent temperature control technology maintains temperatures within 5°F of your target, ensuring perfect results every time.

With 697 square inches of cooking area split between the main rack (504 sq. in.) and warming rack (193 sq. in.), the 700D6E can easily accommodate food for 4-6 people. The 28-pound hopper capacity provides up to 20 hours of cooking time, while the convenient pellet cleanout system makes switching between wood pellet flavors a breeze.

Key Features:

• 697 sq. in. total cooking area
• PID temperature controller with dual meat probes
• 28-pound hopper capacity with viewing window
• Double-wall insulation for superior heat retention
• Enclosed storage cabinet
• Four heavy-duty caster wheels for easy mobility
• Waterproof cover included

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Z Grills 7002C2 – Best Value Z Grill

The Z Grills 7002C2 delivers exceptional value without compromising on quality or features. This model shares many similarities with our top pick, the 700D4E, but at a more accessible price point.

The 7002C2E features the same 697 square inches of cooking area as the 700D4E but comes with an even larger 24-pound hopper capacity, allowing for up to 40 hours of uninterrupted smoking at low temperatures. The PID controller and dual meat probes ensure precise temperature control and perfectly cooked food every time.

Where this model differs from the 700D4E is in its lack of an enclosed storage cabinet and side-wall insulation, which explains the lower price point. However, the cooking performance remains outstanding, making the Z Grills 7002C2 an excellent choice for those seeking premium features at a more affordable price.

Key Features:

• 697 sq. in. total cooking area
• PID temperature controller with dual meat probes
• 24-pound hopper capacity with viewing window
• Pellet cleanout system for easy flavor changes
• Waterproof cover included

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Z Grills 450E – Best Compact Z Grill

The Z Grills 450E is perfect for smaller patios, balconies, or those with limited outdoor space. Despite its compact footprint, this model doesn’t compromise on features or performance.

With 459 square inches of cooking area, the 450E can still accommodate food for 4–5 people, making it ideal for small families or couples who occasionally entertain. The 15-pound hopper provides up to 15 hours of cooking time, while the PID controller ensures consistent temperatures and perfect results.

The 450E includes many features found on larger models, including the pellet cleanout system, dual meat probes, and the innovative FEED boost system, which allows you to inject a burst of pellets for faster heat recovery after opening the grill lid.

Key Features:

• 459 sq. in. total cooking area
• PID temperature controller with dual meat probes
• 15-pound hopper capacity with viewing window
• Pellet cleanout system
• Manual FEED pellet boost system
• Waterproof cover included

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Z Grills Multitasker 11002B WiFi – Best Premium Z Grill

The Z Grills Multitasker 11002B WiFi represents the pinnacle of Z Grills technology and features. This premium model offers a massive 1068 square inches of cooking area across two racks, making it perfect for large gatherings and serious backyard chefs.

What sets the 11002B apart is its WiFi connectivity and dedicated smartphone app, allowing you to monitor and control your grill remotely. With features like smoke boost mode, keep warm function, and temperature adjustments in 5-degree increments, the 11002B provides unprecedented control over your cooking process.

The 28-pound hopper capacity is the largest in the Z Grills lineup, providing up to 40 hours of cooking time at low temperatures. The unit also includes a lid gasket for improved smoke retention and fuel efficiency, as well as an integrated cutting board for food preparation.

Key Features:

• 1068 sq. in. total cooking area
• WiFi connectivity with smartphone app
• PID temperature controller with dual meat probes
• 28-pound hopper capacity
• Smoke boost and keep warm functions
• Temperature adjustments in 5-degree increments
• Integrated cutting board
• Lid gasket for improved smoke retention

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Z Grills Cruiser 200A – Best Portable Z Grill

For those seeking wood-fired flavor on the go, the Z Grills Cruiser 200A is the perfect solution. This compact, portable pellet grill weighs just 40 pounds and features a convenient suitcase design, making it ideal for camping trips, tailgating, or small patios.

Despite its compact size, the Cruiser 200A offers 202 square inches of cooking area—enough to accommodate a full rack of ribs or food for 2–3 people. The 8-pound hopper provides up to 10 hours of cooking time, while the temperature range of 180°F to 450°F allows for both low-and-slow smoking and high-temperature grilling.

The Cruiser 200A’s locking chamber design ensures safe transport, while its powder-coated finish provides durability and weather resistance. With its portable design and impressive performance, the Cruiser 200A is the perfect companion for outdoor adventures.

Key Features:

• 202 sq. in. cooking area
• PID temperature controller
• 8-pound hopper capacity
• Compact, suitcase design
• Weighs only 40 pounds
• Locking chamber for safe transport
• Grease management system

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Z Grills 7002B – Best Budget Z Grill

The Z Grills 7002B offers impressive features and performance at an entry-level price point, making it an excellent choice for those new to pellet grilling or on a tight budget.

With 697 square inches of cooking area and a 20-pound hopper capacity, the 7002B offers the same cooking space as our top picks but without some of the premium features. The digital temperature controller maintains consistent temperatures between 180°F and 450°F, while the heavy-duty steel construction ensures durability and longevity.

The 7002B lacks the PID controller, pellet cleanout system, and double-wall insulation found on higher-end models, but its cooking performance remains impressive for its price point. If you’re looking for a solid entry into pellet grilling without breaking the bank, the 7002B delivers excellent value.

Key Features:

• 697 sq. in. total cooking area
• Digital temperature controller
• 20-pound hopper capacity
• Heavy-duty steel construction
• Waterproof cover included

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Z Grills 700D3 – Best Mid-Range Z Grill

The Z Grills 700D3 bridges the gap between budget and premium models, offering a compelling mix of features at a mid-range price point.

With 697 square inches of cooking area and a 28-pound hopper capacity, the 700D3 provides ample space and cooking time for most families. The digital PID controller offers improved temperature stability over standard controllers, while the enclosed storage cabinet provides convenient storage for pellets and accessories.

The 700D3 includes dual meat probes for precise temperature monitoring and comes with a waterproof cover to protect your investment. While it lacks some of the advanced features found on the 700D4E, such as double-wall insulation and the pellet cleanout system, the 700D3 remains an excellent choice for those seeking quality and value.

Key Features:

• 697 sq. in. total cooking area
• PID temperature controller with dual meat probes
• 28-pound hopper capacity
• Enclosed storage cabinet
• Waterproof cover included

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How to Choose the Right Z Grills Pellet Smoker

When selecting a Z Grills model, consider the following factors to find the perfect match for your needs:

1. Cooking Area

The cooking area determines how much food you can prepare at once. Z Grills models range from 202 to 1068 square inches:

• Small (450 sq. in. or less): Ideal for couples or small families
• Medium (450–700 sq. in.): Perfect for average families or small gatherings
• Large (700+ sq. in.): Best for large families or frequent entertainers

2. Hopper Capacity

Hopper capacity affects how long your grill can operate without refilling:

• Small (8–10 lbs): Provides 4–10 hours of cooking time
• Medium (15–20 lbs): Offers 10–20 hours of cooking time
• Large (24–28 lbs): Delivers 20–40+ hours of cooking time

3. Temperature Control

Z Grills offers two types of temperature controllers:

• Standard Digital Controller: Maintains temperatures within 15–20°F of target
• PID Controller: Provides superior temperature stability within 5°F of target

4. Additional Features

Consider which extra features matter most to you:

• WiFi Connectivity: Remote monitoring and control via smartphone
• Pellet Cleanout System: Easy emptying and changing of pellets
• Double-Wall Insulation: Better heat retention in cold weather
• Storage Cabinet: Convenient storage for pellets and accessories
• Mobility: Wheel type and number for moving your grill

5. Budget

Z Grills offers models across various price points:

• Budget ($400–500): Basic models with standard features
• Mid-Range ($500–700): Improved features and build quality
• Premium ($700+): Advanced features and maximum cooking space

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Z Grills compare to Traeger?

Z Grills offers similar build quality and features to Traeger grills but at significantly lower prices. The company actually manufactured grills for Traeger for many years before launching their own brand. While Traeger may offer some advanced features and better app performance in their premium models, Z Grills delivers exceptional value for most features that matter to the average griller.

Where are Z Grills manufactured?

Z Grills are designed in the United States but manufactured in China. The company has been in the grill manufacturing business for over 30 years and has established U.S. operations in California with U.S.-based customer support.

Do Z Grills have WiFi?

Some Z Grills models, such as the Multitasker 11002B and the 7052B, feature WiFi connectivity and can be controlled via a smartphone app. However, most models in the lineup do not include WiFi functionality.

What temperature is the smoke setting on a Z Grill?

The smoke setting on Z Grills typically runs between 160°F and 180°F, creating the perfect low temperature for maximum smoke production. This setting is ideal for cold smoking or adding extra smoke flavor at the beginning of a cook.

How do I clean my Z Grills pellet grill?

For routine cleaning:

1. Cover the drip tray with aluminum foil and replace as needed
2. Empty the ash from the firepot every 5–6 cooks using a shop vacuum
3. Clean the grates with a grill brush after each use
4. Wipe down exterior surfaces with a mild cleaner
5. Perform a deep clean every 15–20 cooks

For deep cleaning, refer to your model’s specific instructions in the user manual.

Conclusion

Z Grills pellet smokers offer an impressive combination of performance, versatility, and value that’s hard to beat in today’s market. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an affordable entry into pellet grilling or a seasoned pitmaster seeking advanced features and ample cooking space, there’s a Z Grills model perfectly suited to your needs.

Our top overall recommendation is the Z Grills 700D6E, which delivers the best balance of features, performance, and value. For those on a tighter budget, the Z Grills 7002B offers excellent performance at an entry-level price, while the Multitasker 11002B WiFi provides premium features for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

With their 8-in-1 cooking versatility, precise temperature control, and authentic wood-fired flavor, Z Grills pellet smokers continue to win over backyard chefs across the country. By considering your specific needs for cooking capacity, features, and budget, you can find the perfect Z Grills model to elevate your outdoor cooking experience for years to come.

Chris Johns

Chris is the founder of BBQ Report® and has been an avid barbecue fan for over 20 years. His mission is to make grilling and smoking the best food possible easy for everyone. And each year, he continues to help more people with grilling, smoking, and barbecue recipe recommendations.

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