5 Quality Pellet Smokers under $700 to Consider [2024 Update]

The best smoker grills on the market 2024
Photo of author
review by
updated
read time
6 min
category

So, you're thinking about a Pellet Smoker?

A quality pellet smoker is a worthy addition to your cooking apparatus arsenal, particularly so if you are a fellow carnivore and not only love the taste of meat but appreciate the incredible health benefits of eating meat.

Whilst my staple daily meal of ground beef and eggs is more than satisfying, tucking into a smoked longhorn brisket from the smoker is a real treat.

Cooking your meat with a smoker opens up new and exciting ways get the most out of your meat. In this article, I offer five quality pellet smokers under $700 to consider.

Let’s get to it, starting with my top three pellet smoker picks.

My top 3 picks

TIME SAVER

Pit Boss PB1000XLWL Austin XL Wood Pellet Grill
Read review
Ninja OG701UK Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill, Smoker & Air Fryer
Read review
Pit Boss Mahogany 820D3 Wood Pellet Grill
Read review

The rest

TO CONSIDER

Pit Boss PB1000XLWL Austin XL Wood Pellet Grill
Pit Boss
Pit Boss PB1000XLWL Austin XL Wood Pellet Grill
5 Star rating
$497
$497
BUY
Ninja OG701UK Woodfire Electric Bbq Grill, Smoker And Air Fryer
Pit Boss
Ninja OG701UK Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill, Smoker & Air Fryer
5 Star rating
$497
$369
BUY

Traeger Pro Series 34 Pellet Grill

KEY Takeaway
The Traeger Pro Series 34 is a powerhouse smoker grill with a large cooking space, making it ideal for gatherings or large families. It is packed full of features including a precision temperature control functionality which ensures consistent cooking, enamel-coated steel grates, with all-terrain wheels with locking casters. The robust build quality and brand confidence from Traeger offer durability and longevity.

The Traeger Pro Series 34 Pellet Grill is a great choice of grill for those looking to combine size, durability, and versatility in their grilling experience. Below, I talk about each feature in more detail:

Traeger Pro 34 smoker grill

Cooking Space

The Pro Series 34 offers a substantial cooking area, totaling 884 square inches in total which is divided into two racks (a 646 sq. inch main grate and a 238 sq. inch secondary grate). The larger size makes it a better choice for cooking meals for a large family or gathering, fitting up to eight chickens, seven rib racks, or 40 burgers simultaneously on the grill.

Material and Build

As you would expect from Traeger, the Pro Series 34 offers a feature-rich build quality with enamel-coated steel grates which is known for it’s non-stick properties and ease of cleaning. Powder-coated steel and a new sturdy Sawhorse chassis will ensure you are grilling for years to come. The Pro Series 34 also features all-terrain wheels with locking casters, providing stability and mobility.

Features and Functionality

The Pro Series 34 is feature-rich and includes an 18-pound hopper capacity with a clean-out function, two temperature probes for keeping a close eye on your cooking temps as well as a digital controller with Advanced Grill Logic (AGL) technology. AGL technology helps maintain more accurate temperature control whilst cooking by frequently checking the temperature. The hopper clean-out feature adds convenience, allowing for easy pellet swapping and cleaning making this a dream smoker to use on a regular basis.

Heat and Temperature Control

The Pro Series 34 features a temperature range from smoking at 180°F to a high setting, which varies depending on outside temperature. Using the AGL technology, the temperature is checked every 15 seconds ensuring a maintained temperature within about 15 degrees of the configured set point. While it exhibits some temperature fluctuations when the lid is opened, it generally maintains a stable cooking environment.

User Experience and Reviews

Common talking points in online reviews of the Traeger Pro Series 34 Pellet Grill mention the grill’s large cooking area, the efficiency and usefulness of the dual meat probes, as well as the ease of assembly and use. However, some have noted a delay in heating to desired temperatures and occasional missing parts upon delivery. The user-friendly digital interface and overall grill balance for easy movement are frequently highlighted positives.

Note: The above information is gathered from a range of online reviews.

For a pellet grill that bridges the gap between affordability and premium features, the Traeger Pro Series 34 stands out as a solid choice, particularly for those looking for a larger cooking area.

Traeger Pro Series 34 Pellet Grill Pro’s and Con’s

PRO
Larger cooking area for big gatherings.
CON
Larger size grill requiring more space.
PRO
Reliable temperature control for consistent cooking.
CON
At the higher end of the $700 budget.

Traeger Pro 22 Pellet Grill

KEY Takeaway
The smaller sibling to the Pro 33, the Traeger Pro Series 22 smoker grill packs a similar punch with a smaller and more convenient cooking area – perfect for those with limited space but unwilling to compromise on performance. Offering a good balance between price and performance, the Traeger Pro Series 22 is a fair choice for those entering the world of pellet grilling or looking for a reliable mid-range option.

Cooking Space

  • The Pro Series 22 features a total cooking area of 572 square inches, split between a primary grill grate of 418 square inches and a secondary warming rack of 154 square inches. This space is adequate for a medium-sized family or small social gatherings, allowing for versatile cooking options.

Material and Build

  • The grill grates are made of porcelain-coated steel, offering ease of cleaning and a non-stick surface for hassle-free cooking. The main body is constructed from high-quality, powder-coated steel, ensuring durability and weather resistance. The grill’s sawhorse chassis design adds extra stability, making it a robust choice for regular use.

Features and Functionality

  • Key features include a digital pro controller for precise temperature management, an 18-pound hopper for ample pellet storage, and heavy-duty wheels for easy mobility. It also includes dual meat probe thermometers, allowing simultaneous monitoring of two different meats, enhancing its functionality for various cooking tasks.

Heat and Temperature Control

  • The Pro Series 22 maintains temperatures within +/-15 degrees Fahrenheit, with the capability for 25-degree increment adjustments. Its efficient temperature control system, combined with the deep hood design, allows for effective baking, roasting, and grilling.

User Experience and Reviews

  • Users have generally appreciated the Pro Series 22 for its large grilling area, sturdy construction, and easy-to-use features. The sawhorse chassis and side lift bar facilitate easy mobility. However, some users have noted temperature fluctuations and occasional challenges with achieving high temperatures for searing. The overall construction, including the all-terrain wheels, adds to its usability and durability in various outdoor settings.

The Traeger Pro Series 22 Pellet Grill stands out as a solid choice for those who prioritize quality grilling in a more compact form. It offers a blend of essential features and user-friendly design, making it a great option for both beginners and seasoned grill enthusiasts.

Z GRILLS 1060 sq. in. Pellet Grill and Smoker

This grill from Z GRILLS stands out with its massive 1060 square inch cooking area. It’s versatile, allowing for various cooking styles from grilling to smoking, and offers excellent value for its size.

Nexgrill Oakford 1000 Wifi Pellet Grill Smoker

The Nexgrill Oakford 1000 combines technology and convenience, featuring WiFi connectivity for remote monitoring and control. It’s a tech-savvy choice for modern outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

OKLAHOMA JOE’S Rider Combo Gas and Pellet Grill

For those who can’t decide between gas and pellets, this combo grill offers the best of both worlds. It’s a versatile option that caters to a wide range of cooking preferences.

Feature Comparison

brand
Model
Image
Fuel type
Cooking area
temp control
WiFi / Smart features
rating
price
logo traeger
Traeger Pro 34
Traeger Pro 34
Pellets
884 sq. in
Digital
5 Star rating
$599
BUY
logo traeger
Traeger Pro 22
Traeger Pro 22
Pellets
572 sq. in
Digital
4.5 Star rating
$599
BUY
logo zgrills
Z GRILLS 1060
Z GRILLS 1060
Pellets
1060 sq. in
Manual
4 Star rating
$599
BUY
Nexgrill Oakford 1000
Nexgrill Oakford 1000
Pellets
1000 sq. in
WiFi / Digital
5 Star rating
$599
BUY
logo oklahomojoes
OKLAHOMA JOE’S Combo
OKLAHOMA JOES Combo
Pellets + Gas
900 sq. in
Manual
4.5 Star rating
$599
BUY
brand
Model
Image
Fuel type
Cooking area
temp control
WiFi / Smart features
rating
price
logo traeger
Traeger Pro 34
Traeger Pro 34
Fuel type
Pellets
Cooking area
884 sq. in
Temp Control
Digital
Digital Controller
5 Star rating
$599
BUY
logo traeger
Traeger Pro 22
Traeger Pro 22
Fuel type
Pellets
Cooking area
572 sq. in
Temp Control
Digital
Digital Controller
4.5 Star rating
$599
BUY
logo zgrills
Z GRILLS 1060
Z GRILLS 1060
Fuel type
Pellets
Cooking area
1060 sq. in
Temp Control
Manual
Digital Controller
4 Star rating
$599
BUY
Nexgrill Oakford 1000
Nexgrill Oakford 1000
Fuel type
Pellets
Cooking area
1000 sq. in
Temp Control
WiFi / Digital
Digital Controller
5 Star rating
$599
BUY
logo oklahomojoes
OKLAHOMA JOE’S Combo
OKLAHOMA JOES Combo
Fuel type
Pellets + Gas
Cooking area
900 sq. in
Temp Control
Manual
Digital Controller
4.5 Star rating
$599
BUY

Conclusion

Each of these pellet grills offers something unique, whether it’s the size, technology, or versatility. Your choice depends on your specific needs, whether it’s for large gatherings, tech integration, or a compact solution. Happy grilling!

What to Look for in a Pellet Smoker under $700

details

Performance and Efficiency

info

Ease of Use and Maintenance

info

Additional Features and Accessories

info

Quality and brand reputation

info

Final Verdict

verdict here

FAQ

How does a pellet smoker work?

Instead of relying on gas or charcoal, a wood pellet grill utilises compressed hardwood pellets made entirely from natural sources. These grills blend the functionalities of traditional grills and standard ovens, enabling you to smoke, roast, bake, grill, and even sear a wide array of dishes. Traeger Grills’ innovation of the wood pellet grill back in 1987 revolutionized the way we cook, offering a steady and manageable heat source that consistently enhances the flavour of your food