Best Pellet Grills: Z Grills vs Traeger vs Pit Boss

If you love the idea of wood-fired flavor without the fuss of babysitting a fire, you’re in the right place. Here you’ll get a friendly, side-by-side look at three popular pellet grills: the Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker 7002C, the Traeger Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, and the Pit Boss 500FB2 Pellet Grill. Whether you’re after a big cooking area for weekend parties, precise temperature control for low-and-slow smoking, or a budget-friendly option that still delivers great results, this comparison will help you figure out which one fits your routine and your yard.

Pellet grills have come a long way since being introduced in the 1980s as an easy way to get consistent heat with wood pellets originally used for heating. Over the years they evolved into versatile outdoor cookers that combine the flavor of wood smoke with the convenience of electronic controls. Owning one gives you consistent temperature control, set-and-forget operation, and the ability to grill, smoke, bake, roast and sear on a single unit. Features like PID controllers, meat probes, and sizable hoppers make it simpler to hit and hold the temps you want, while the pellets themselves provide clean-burning, efficient fuel and a range of wood flavors to experiment with.

In the rest of this article you’ll get a closer look at each model—Z GRILLS 7002C, Traeger Pro 22, and Pit Boss 500FB2—covering build quality, cooking performance, key features, and who each grill is best suited for. You’ll also see pros and cons to help you decide which one will work best for your grilling style and budget.

Z GRILLS 7002C Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker — PID 2.1 Controller, 697 sq. in. Cooking Area, Meat Probes, Rain Cover

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The Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker with PID 2.1 Controller (7002C) is designed to be your go-to outdoor cooking machine when you want reliable temperature control and plenty of cooking real estate. You’ll use it for low-and-slow smoking, high-heat searing, roasting, baking, and everything in between. With 697 sq in grilling space, this unit is ideal when you’re feeding a family, entertaining a crowd, or taking barbecue to a tailgate. The included meat probes and PID 2.1 control mean you can set a temp and walk away, making it a great choice for busy hosts who don’t want to babysit the fire.

You’ll appreciate the Z GRILLS 7002C because it balances automation with capacity. The PID 2.1 TECHNOLOGY uses an LCD screen to auto-tune fuel and airflow, which helps maintain temperature consistency even when weather changes. That reliability is huge when you’re smoking brisket or a large roast for hours. The 28 lbs pellet hopper reduces how often you need to refill, and the hopper cleanout feature makes swapping pellet flavors quick and hassle-free. Whether you’re experimenting with fruitwood or sticking to classic hickory, the cleanout saves you time and mess.

The core purpose of this pellet grill is to let you achieve consistent, quality barbecue with minimal intervention. Key features include:

• PID 2.1 Controller with LCD Screen: Auto-tunes fuel and airflow to maintain a steady temperature. You’ll see the current temperature and make adjustments easily.
• Large Cooking Area (697 sq in): Plenty of space to cook multiple racks of ribs, several brisket flats, or a mix of main dishes and sides.
• 28 lbs Pellet Hopper: Extended cooking runs without frequent refills. Great for weekend long cooks or large gatherings.
• Built-In Meat Probes: Two included probes let you monitor internal temps of different cuts simultaneously, so you hit perfect doneness every time.
• Viewable Pellet Window: Check pellet levels without lifting the lid and disrupting the cook.
• Hopper Cleanout: Empty the hopper quickly to switch pellet types or clean up after a long season of grilling.
• Sturdy Steel Construction with High-Temperature Powder Coating: Durable build designed for longevity and resistance to the elements.
• Superb Mobility: Two rugged wheels plus two lockable casters make it easy to move and secure the grill on uneven backyard terrain.
• Rain Cover Included: Protects your investment from the elements when you’re not grilling.

These features combine to give you an appliance that feels more like a dependable kitchen tool than a finicky outdoor gadget.

The Z GRILLS 7002C presents solid build quality for its price class. You can expect sturdy steel construction and a high-temperature powder coating finish that resist rust and wear from outdoor exposure. The PID 2.1 controller is the real technological advantage here: by regulating pellet feed and airflow with precise feedback, it delivers temperature consistency that many cheaper pellet grills struggle to match. That translates to better smoke rings, steadier cooks, and fewer surprises.

Performance-wise, the grill handles a wide temperature range comfortably, so you can sear burgers one moment and smoke brisket the next. The 28 lbs pellet hopper and hopper cleanout are more than convenience features — they’re practical improvements that reduce hassle on multi-day or multi-recipe sessions. The viewable pellet window is a small but thoughtful touch that helps you avoid mid-cook pellet surprises.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning of the hopper, ash management, and protecting the finish with the included rain cover will keep your grill performing well for seasons to come. Mobility features—solid wheels and lockable casters—make positioning and storage simple, which contributes to overall longevity because you’ll be less likely to leave it exposed.

Pros:

• Reliable temperature control thanks to PID 2.1, which reduces the need to constantly babysit your cook.
• Large cooking capacity (697 sq in) lets you handle family meals and parties with ease.
• Long hopper capacity (28 lbs) extends unattended cook times and is great for weekend cooks.
• Built-in meat probes let you track internal temps of multiple pieces of meat simultaneously.
• Hopper cleanout and view window streamline pellet management and make flavor changes easy.
• Durable construction with high-temp powder coating improves weather resistance and lifespan.
• Good mobility with two rugged wheels and two lockable casters for easy movement and secure placement.
• Included rain cover protects your investment when not in use.

Cons:

• While the PID controller greatly improves stability, you may still encounter minor temperature swings under extreme wind or very cold conditions — typical of pellet grills.
• The grill is sizable and heavy when loaded; if you need to move it frequently over long distances, it may be less convenient despite the wheels.
• Some advanced users might miss ultra-precise manual control or the extreme high-heat searing performance of dedicated wood or gas-fired sear burners.
• Assembly may take some time and effort; expect to spend a couple of hours putting it together if you assemble it yourself.

If you want a versatile pellet grill that reduces the guesswork and supports large cooks, the Z GRILLS 7002C is a compelling option. The combination of PID technology, generous 697 sq in cooking area, and practical features like hopper cleanout, view window, and meat probes makes it beginner-friendly and useful for seasoned grillers alike. You’ll find it especially valuable when you want consistent results without being chained to the grill, and its build and mobility features mean it’ll fit well into most backyards and outdoor setups.

Traeger Pro 22 6‑in‑1 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker — 572 sq. in., 18 lb hopper, meat probe, up to 450°F, Bronze

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You’ll reach for the Traeger Pro 22 when you want consistent, wood-fired flavor with the convenience of electric control. This grill is designed for hosts, meal preppers, and anyone who enjoys the ritual of outdoor cooking—whether you’re searing steaks, smoking brisket low-and-slow, baking pizza, or roasting a whole chicken. With 572 sq. in. of cooking area, you can fit up to 24 burgers, 5 racks of ribs, or 4 whole chickens, so it’s a great fit for family dinners and backyard cookouts alike.

Because it’s a true 6-in-1 unit, you’ll be able to:

• Grill hot and fast for a nice sear.
• Smoke low and slow for tender BBQ.
• Bake pies or bread when you want something different.
• Roast whole birds or veggies.
• Braise tougher cuts until they fall apart.
• BBQ reliably with wood-fired flavor.

You’ll appreciate how the Digital Pro Controller gives you precise temperature control from 180°F to 450°F, keeping temps within ±15°F for steady results. The 18lb hopper means fewer pellet refills during long cooks, and the clean-out door makes swapping pellet flavors painless. The built-in meat probe lets you monitor internal temps without lifting the lid and losing heat.

The Traeger’s stable pellet smoker design—with powder-coated steel, porcelain-coated grates, a rugged sawhorse chassis, side lift bar, and large wheels—makes it tough enough for outdoor use and easy to move when you need it to. You’ll also find it’s compatible with many Traeger accessories, like covers and drip tray liners, so you can tailor your setup to how you like to cook.

The core purpose of the Traeger Grills Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker is to deliver authentic wood-fired flavor with the simplicity of an electric smoker. It’s built to replace multiple appliances in your outdoor kitchen, combining smoker, grill, and oven functions into one reliable machine that’s approachable for beginners but powerful enough for enthusiasts.

• 6-in-1 versatility: Grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ.
• Digital Pro Controller: Advanced temperature control for consistent results.
• Temperature range: 180°F to 450°F with accuracy within ±15°F.
• Cooking capacity: 572 sq. in. — accommodates large meals and gatherings.
• 18lb pellet hopper: Long run times and easy clean-out for flavor swaps.
• Built-in meat probe: Monitor internal temperature without opening the lid.
• Durable construction: Powder-coated steel exterior and porcelain-coated grill grates for easy cleaning.
• Mobility features: Rugged sawhorse chassis and large wheels make repositioning simple.
• Accessory ecosystem: Compatible with Traeger covers, trays, and tools.

You’ll notice the Traeger Pro 22 feels well-built. The powder-coated steel exterior stands up to regular outdoor use, and the porcelain-coated grates resist sticking and make cleanup easier. The chassis, side lift bar, and substantial wheels reflect design choices meant to give the grill stability and mobility. While it isn’t stainless steel in every place, the materials chosen balance durability and cost effectively.

Performance is where Traeger shines. Thanks to the Digital Pro Controller, temperature swings are minimal, which matters a lot when you’re smoking long cooks. The 18lb hopper minimizes interruptions during lengthy smokes, and the built-in meat probe adds confidence when you’re hitting target temps. For most users, the grill delivers consistent, tasty results with the unmistakable wood pellet flavor that defines pellet grills.

Because this is part of Traeger’s Pro Series, you’ll have access to a wide range of accessories and replacement parts. If you want to upgrade with a cover, drip tray liners, or specialized tools, you can. Traeger also has a large community and plenty of recipes, which helps you get the most out of the grill.

• Versatile 6-in-1 functionality lets you replace multiple cooking devices with one unit.

• Consistent temperature control via the Digital Pro Controller for reliable results.

• Solid cooking capacity at 572 sq. in., ideal for families and small gatherings.

• Large 18lb hopper reduces pellet refills during long cooks and simplifies flavor changes.

• Built-in meat probe adds precision without extra gadgets.

• Durable construction with powder-coated steel and porcelain-coated grates for easier cleaning.

• Accessory compatibility opens the door to customization and upgrades.

• Temperature range tops at 450°F, so if you want extremely high-heat searing beyond that, you may need a separate searing tool or cast-iron pan.

• Pellet grills require electricity and pellets, so you’re dependent on both power and pellet supply.

• While stable and portable, it’s not lightweight—moving it alone across uneven terrain can be a workout.

• The control system, while accurate, has a ±15°F variance; extremely precision-focused cooks might notice minor swings during very long smokes.

• Pricepoint: As a quality pellet grill, it’s an investment compared to basic charcoal or gas grills.

You’ll be happiest with the Traeger Pro 22 if you value the convenience of set-and-forget smoking, want authentic wood-fired flavor, and like the idea of one appliance that can grill, smoke, bake, and roast. If you frequently host medium-sized gatherings or meal-prep for the week, the cooking capacity and hopper size will be especially useful.

If you need ultra-high searing temps or a purely portable unit for camping, you might consider a supplemental tool. But if you want reliable performance, a supportive ecosystem of accessories, and a friendly learning curve, this model is a very strong choice.

Enjoy experimenting—you’ll find this grill comfortable to use, forgiving for beginners, and rewarding when you dial in your favorite recipes.

Pit Boss 500FB2 Pellet Grill — Matte Black (Model 11086)

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If you want a versatile pellet grill that can handle low-and-slow smoking, mid-range roasting, and high-heat searing without buying multiple pieces of equipment, the Pit Boss 500FB2 is made for you. With 518 square inches of cooking space and a 2-tiered cooking surface, this unit is ideal for families, weekend hosts, or backyard chefs who entertain often. You’ll find it well-suited for cooks who want a single grill that can do pork shoulders, brisket, racks of ribs, and still crank out steak-night sears with ease.

Use it for:

• Weeknight dinners where you want predictable, even results
• Weekend smoke sessions that need consistent long burns
• Quick searing sessions thanks to the Flame Broiler technology
• Meal prep for gatherings — the 2-tiered cooking surface helps you maximize capacity

You’ll appreciate how the Pit Boss 500FB2 blends convenience, flexibility, and value. Key reasons we like it include:

• The digital control board gives you precise temperature control from 180°F to 500°F in 5°F increments, so you can dial in low-and-slow smokes or hold a steady temp for baking.
• The Flame Broiler Lever transforms the grill for direct-flame cooking, letting you reach searing conditions up to 1,000°F — something many pellet grills can’t do.
• The 518 square inches of cooking space, split across two levels, makes it easy to cook for a crowd without juggling batches.
• A 5 lb. hopper capacity keeps things simple for typical cooking sessions, and pellet changeovers are quick.
• Practical touches like the solid bottom shelf for storage and the inclusion of 1 meat probe with 2 probe ports elevate the user experience.
• The Pit Boss 5-year warranty gives you confidence in the product’s durability and Pit Boss’s support.

The Pit Boss 500FB2 Pellet Grill is designed to be an all-in-one backyard solution: a smoker, a roaster, and a high-heat searing tool. It’s for people who want the smoky flavor of pellets with the convenience of digital controls and the capability to sear steaks like you would on a gas or charcoal grill.

• 518 square inches of cooking space — roomy enough for multiple racks of ribs or large roasts.
• Temperature range 180°F–500°F via the digital control board with 5°F increments, for accuracy during smoking, baking, and roasting.
• Flame Broiler Lever for direct flame searing up to 1,000°F, giving you authentic char and sear marks.
• 5 lb. hopper capacity — convenient for shorter cooks or for switching pellet flavors mid-session.
• 2-tiered cooking surface — easy organization of foods with different cooking times.
• 2 meat probe ports and 1 included meat probe — monitor internal temperatures without lifting the lid.
• Solid bottom shelf — added storage for pellets, tools, or accessories.
• Matte black finish that looks modern and hides grime between cleanings.
• Backed by the Pit Boss 5-year warranty for added peace of mind.

When you fire it up, the digital control board helps you get to and maintain target temps reliably. For low-and-slow cooks, temperature stability is excellent; the grill temp holds steady with only minor, expected cycling. For high-heat searing, engage the Flame Broiler Lever and watch it deliver intense, direct heat so you can get a crusty sear quickly. The 2-tiered cooking surface is handy when you need to stagger items — keep sides or warming items on the top rack while main cuts roast below.

You’ll notice the matte black finish gives the unit a clean, contemporary look that fits most patios. The chassis feels solid for the price point: hinges, handles, and shelves are well-attached, and the internal grates hold up to regular use. The solid bottom shelf adds structural stability and practical storage.

The digital control board is user-friendly and responsive. The meat probe that comes with the grill is basic but functional; having two probe ports means you can add another probe if you want to monitor two different cuts simultaneously.

Pit Boss backs this model with a 5-year warranty, which signals confidence in the product and provides reassurance that you’re protected against manufacturing issues. If you maintain it (keep it clean, empty ash and grease, and use quality pellets), it should give you several seasons of reliable service.

In everyday use, you can expect solid temperature consistency, easy pellet feeding, and dependable ignition. The Flame Broiler mechanism is robust and straightforward to operate, though you’ll want to clean it periodically if you use it often for high-heat searing to keep airflow and performance optimal.

• Versatile cooking range: 180°F–500°F with 5°F increments for precise control.

• Searing capability: Flame Broiler delivers up to 1,000°F for true direct-flame searing.

• Generous cooking area: 518 square inches and 2-tiered cooking surface for feeding a family or guests.

• Practical features: 2 meat probe ports, 1 included probe, solid bottom shelf for storage.

• Compact hopper: 5 lb. capacity keeps the unit nimble and easy to change pellets/flavors.

• Good value: Combines smoker, grill, and searing tool at a competitive price point.

• Strong warranty: Pit Boss 5-year warranty gives peace of mind.

• Hopper capacity is only 5 lb., so for very long smokes you’ll need to refill more often than on larger models.

• While the Flame Broiler sears great, you’ll need to manage flare-ups and clean the broiler area regularly.

• The included meat probe is functional but basic; you might upgrade to a higher-end wireless probe for remote monitoring.

• At the higher end of temperature (near 500°F), you may notice longer warm-up times compared to gas or dedicated searing grills.

• Some users prefer a larger hopper for extended, unattended cooks — if you frequently run 8–12 hour smokes, plan for pellet top-ups.

If you want a cost-effective pellet grill that brings serious flexibility — from delicate smoking to blazing sears — the Pit Boss 500FB2 is a solid choice. It’s particularly strong for backyard cooks who value a one-grill solution with a practical footprint, easy controls, and the ability to deliver both authentic smoke and steakhouse-style searing.

Comparison of the three pellet grills

Here’s a friendly, practical comparison of the Z GRILLS 7002C, Traeger Pro 22, and Pit Boss 500FB2 so you can quickly see how their specifications translate to real-world use. The table below gives a clear side-by-side view, and the notes after the table explain what those specs mean for your cooking and which grill might fit your needs best.

Side-by-side specifications

How the specifications affect your cooking

• Cooking area: If you frequently cook for a crowd, the Z GRILLS 7002C gives you the largest surface (697 sq in). Traeger’s 572 sq in is a strong mid-size option for family meals and small parties. Pit Boss’ 518 sq in is fine for everyday grilling and family use.
• Hopper capacity: Hopper size directly affects how often you refill pellets during long cooks. Z GRILLS’ 28 lb hopper is ideal for long smokes and fewer refills. Traeger’s 18 lb hopper is a solid compromise for multi-hour cooks. Pit Boss’ 5 lb hopper is quite small — expect more frequent refills for long sessions.
• Temperature control: Z’s PID 2.1 controller is designed to auto-tune fuel/air for consistent temps in changing conditions — helpful if you want steady low-and-slow performance. Traeger’s Digital Pro is reliable within ±15°F, good for most smoking and grilling. Pit Boss offers finer 5°F increments and a wide range to 500°F, plus the Flame Broiler for very high direct-sear heat (up to 1000°F at the grate) if you want serious searing capability.
• Meat monitoring: Z includes two probes, which makes monitoring multiple cuts easy without buying extras. Traeger includes a built-in probe (convenient). Pit Boss includes one probe and has two ports if you want to add a second probe.
• Build & maintenance: Powder-coated steel on Z and Traeger gives good durability and easy cleanup; Traeger’s porcelain-coated grates are especially easy to clean. Z’s view window and hopper cleanout help you watch pellets and swap flavors quickly. Pit Boss’ solid shelf gives storage but note the small hopper size when planning long cooks.
• Mobility & placement: Z’s combo of rugged wheels and locking casters makes it easy to move and secure. Traeger’s large wheels and side lift bar help move it around the yard. Pit Boss’ listing highlights storage more than mobility details.

Which grill might be right for you?

• Choose the Z GRILLS 7002C if you want maximum cooking area and long unattended cooks (big hopper), or you host large gatherings often. The PID controller and hopper cleanout are great for steady long smokes and quick pellet swaps.
• Choose the Traeger Pro 22 if you want a proven all-around pellet grill with a good balance of capacity, hopper size, and Traeger’s accessory ecosystem. It’s a strong pick for everyday grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting.
• Choose the Pit Boss 500FB2 if you want fine temperature control plus the ability to directly sear at very high heat (Flame Broiler). It’s a good choice if searing steak and high-heat options matter, and if the smaller hopper isn’t a deal-breaker for your typical session.

If you tell me which aspects matter most to you (size, long cooks, searing, portability, price), I can help narrow the choice to the best match for your needs.

Conclusion — Quick Comparison of the Three Pellet Grills

You’ve looked at three solid pellet grills/smokers: the Z GRILLS 7002C, the Traeger Pro 22, and the Pit Boss 500FB2. Each delivers reliable smoke flavor and convenience compared with traditional charcoal or gas, but they serve slightly different priorities. Here’s a friendly wrap-up to help you pick the best match for your needs.

Z GRILLS 7002C — Best value for big cooks

• Summary: Huge cooking area and a PID controller make the 7002C a great option if you often cook for family, friends, or gatherings. It includes meat probes and a rain cover so you’re set for longer cooks.
• Main drawbacks: It’s a big unit (space/footprint), finish and fit-and-finish aren’t as premium as higher-priced brands, and you may need to spend a little time dialing in pellet choice and airflow for perfect consistency.
• Who it’s best for: You, if you want maximum cooking area and the best value-per-square-inch without paying a premium.

Traeger Pro 22 — Best for ease of use and brand support

• Summary: Traeger’s Pro 22 offers a well-rounded, user-friendly experience with dependable results. It’s a good all-around smoker/grill with a strong brand reputation and solid support.
• Main drawbacks: Smaller cooking area than the Z GRILLS model and typically a higher price. If you want very high searing temps, you may find its max temp limiting without added accessories.
• Who it’s best for: You, if you value simple, consistent operation, community/support, and a trusted name even if you pay a bit more.

Pit Boss 500FB2 — Best for budget-conscious power and flexibility

• Summary: Pit Boss gives you large cooking capacity and strong performance at a competitive price. It’s a good no-nonsense pellet grill for people who like to tinker.
• Main drawbacks: Controls and fit-and-finish are more utilitarian; you might see a bit more temperature variability vs. higher-end models. It’s heavier and less refined cosmetically.
• Who it’s best for: You, if you want raw value and plenty of space to cook without breaking the bank and you don’t mind doing minor tuning.

Final Recommendation by Audience

• If you regularly cook for a crowd and want the most cooking space for your money: choose the Z GRILLS 7002C.
• If you want the easiest, most consistent everyday user experience and appreciate brand backing: go with the Traeger Pro 22.
• If you want big capacity on a budget and are comfortable tweaking performance: pick the Pit Boss 500FB2.

No matter which you choose, plan for an initial break-in/seasoning session, use quality pellets, and allow a few cooks to learn how your grill behaves. That way you’ll get the best flavor and consistent results from your new pellet smoker.

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