We’ve long loved pellet grills, they take a lot of the guesswork out of grilling and smoking. Just add pellets, turn it on, set the temperature, and you’re good to go. Brands like Traeger and Weber have helped popularize them, but with so many (often expensive) models out there, how do you choose the right one?
To find the best pellet grills, we researched dozens of top-rated models. We compared features, read hundreds of customer reviews, and analyzed expert feedback to evaluate performance, ease of assembly, user-friendliness, and how simple they are to clean. After digging into the details, we landed on the nine best pellet grills for every type of budget and backyard cook.
Traeger Ironwood XL
Best Overall Pellet Grill
The Traeger Ironwood XL offers top-tier performance with precise temperature control, smart WiFIRE technology, and a spacious cooking area—perfect for serious backyard cooks.
Buy on AmazonThe Traeger Ironwood XL stands out as one of the most capable pellet smokers on the market, offering a generous 924 square inches of cooking space and advanced features designed for serious backyard cooks. With the ability to fine-tune the temperature in five-degree increments and access enhanced smoke output via the Super Smoke setting, it consistently delivers flavorful, bark-covered meats. Whether you’re smoking ribs, pork shoulder, or wings, this grill produces rich, balanced smoke flavor without overwhelming the meat. It’s a solid option for anyone who frequently entertains or smokes in large batches.
The grill includes modern conveniences like app connectivity, digital controls, and cooking probes, though the experience isn’t flawless. The app and onboard controls can conflict at times, but using either system on its own avoids most issues. Assembly is straightforward, and the durable build is backed by a 10-year limited warranty. While the $2,000 price tag is steep, the performance and capacity justify the investment for those who take smoking seriously.
Weber SmokeFire EX4 (2nd Gen)
Best Grill-Style Option
The Weber SmokeFire EX4 delivers consistent performance with a wide 200–600°F range, perfect for both smoking, searing, and high-heat grilling.
Buy on AmazonThe Weber SmokeFire EX4 (2nd Gen) brings the brand’s grilling legacy into the pellet world with a model that balances classic grilling performance and modern smoking features. With a temperature range of 200 to 600°F, it excels at both smoking and high-heat searing. The “Smoke Boost” feature allows for extra smoky flavor early in the cook, encouraging pellets to burn slower and lower for added depth. While the resulting flavor is more moderate than some heavier-smoking models, it still delivers consistent results across long sessions with accurate temperature control.
This grill is ideal for those who want a versatile pellet cooker that leans closer to traditional grilling. The chicken wings and steak cooked on it came out with great charring and grill marks, and longer cooks like a 10-hour pork shoulder remained steady and even. While it may not satisfy those chasing the deepest smoke flavor, its reliability, ease of use, and balanced performance make it a smart choice for backyard cooks who value flexibility and precision.
Traeger Woodridge Pro
Another Great Option
With a massive cooking surface, precise temperature control, and easy app connectivity, the Woodridge Pro is a durable, high-performing grill perfect for serious backyard cooks.
Buy on AmazonThe Traeger Woodridge Pro Pellet Grill delivers high-end performance with impressive consistency and convenience. Its expansive 970-square-inch cooking surface surpasses even the Ironwood XL, making it ideal for larger gatherings or serious home pitmasters. Temperature control is one of its standout features, holding within 10 degrees of the set point throughout extended cooks. The intuitive touchscreen interface pairs easily with Traeger’s app, allowing users to monitor pellet levels, track temperature, and manage cook time remotely with minimal effort.
While it excels in reliability and ease of use, the Woodridge Pro produces a more subtle smoke flavor compared to some other grills in its class. That makes it a great option for those who prioritize precision and versatility over deep smokiness. For those who grill more occasionally or have limited space, the smaller Woodridge model may be a better fit. Still, the Pro’s durability, size, and smart features make it a strong contender for anyone looking to upgrade to a full-featured pellet grill.
Pit Boss 440 Deluxe
Best Budget Option
A wallet-friendly pellet grill that still delivers solid smoke flavor and great searing power. Ideal for casual backyard cooks who want performance without the premium price tag.
Buy on AmazonThe Pit Boss 440 Deluxe Wood Pellet Grill is a standout in the value category, offering impressive cooking performance at a much lower price point than many high-end models. Despite its modest size and limited feature set, it delivers bold smoke flavor and strong searing power thanks to its effective heat distribution and dedicated searing panel. During side-by-side comparisons, its results held up surprisingly well against much pricier grills, making it a smart pick for budget-conscious buyers who still want rich, smoky flavor.
However, its limitations are worth noting. The smaller hopper requires more frequent refills during longer cooks, and temperature consistency can vary slightly over time. It lacks smart features like app connectivity and only includes two wheels, making it less portable than others in this guide. Still, for the price, it offers solid reliability, capable flavor, and enough cooking space for small families or casual weekend smoking sessions. Availability may fluctuate, so check for current stock before purchasing.
Traeger Tailgater 20
Best Compact Option
Compact, portable, and easy to use, the Tailgater 20 is perfect for small patios, tailgates, or anyone new to pellet smoking. Mild smoke flavor with consistent performance.
Buy on AmazonThe Traeger TFB30KLF Tailgater Pellet Grill is a compact and portable option designed for flexibility without sacrificing quality. With a 300-square-inch cooking area, it’s well-suited for small gatherings, tailgating events, or limited patio spaces. Folding legs and smooth-rolling wheels make it easy to pack up and transport, while its mild smoke output makes it appealing to a wide range of tastes. It delivers consistent performance for both grilling and smoking, making it an excellent choice for beginners or casual cooks who want to explore pellet grilling.
While it may not produce the deepest smoke flavor, especially on longer cooks like pork shoulder, it still provides a satisfying level of smokiness that won’t overpower more delicate dishes. The lower temperature range and smaller capacity place it outside the realm of serious competition grills, but for those seeking a portable, easy-to-use pellet smoker with solid results, the Tailgater hits the mark.
Choosing the best pellet grill comes down to your cooking style, space, and budget. Whether you’re looking for a full-featured smoker that can handle large backyard feasts, a compact option for weekend tailgates, or a reliable pick that won’t break the bank, there’s something here to match your needs. The models featured in this guide cover a range of price points and features, from app connectivity and smart temperature controls to searing zones and portable frames.
Pellet grills have earned their place as a favorite among backyard cooks thanks to their consistent heat, ease of use, and ability to deliver smoky, flavorful results with minimal fuss. With any of the grills listed above, you’ll be able to enjoy everything from slow-smoked brisket to crispy chicken wings, without the guesswork. Whatever your setup or experience level, one of these top-rated models is ready to upgrade your next cookout.