You can get a pellet grill just in time for summer for less than $800

TheStreet aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If it’s summertime, then it’s time to talk about grilling. The age-old debate has always been those who prefer traditional charcoal grilling against gas grill converts. However, there’s another type of outdoor cooking that has plenty of fans as well, despite maybe not having as many eyes on it. Pellet grills have been around since the 1980s, and they offer a third way to make that barbecue sizzle. They typically add a smoking element to traditional grilling techniques, and if you’re shopping for one, then you’re a smart griller.

There are a few reasons why smoking meat is beneficial. For starters, it improves the flavor profile of anything you cook. A light smoky aromatic flavor gets infused into the meat, making it a far more multi-dimensional experience to eat it. The smoke also provides the added benefit of tenderizing meats, by breaking down the fat compounds and increasing the juiciness. Finally, smoking also has a way of preserving foods the way that traditional grilling cannot. All of these benefits are a result of cooking the meat on low heat for long periods with the aid of smoke. That’s why pellet grilling is so popular these days. It’s a far less labor intensive means of smoking than traditional smoker grills.

What is a pellet grill?

In essence, a pellet grill is an outdoor convection oven and smoker. It uses compressed wooden sawdust pellets, burning them to create both heat and smoke. An electric auger continuously feeds the pellets into the flame, allowing it to continue uninterrupted for extended periods. This is in contrast to old-school wood smokers, most of which require you to continually feed the beast, so the smoke doesn’t cease flowing. There are a few other plusses to pellet grills in contrast to traditional charcoal and gas grills that make them worth considering. 

In addition to the easy set-it-and-forget-it cooking technique that you get with a pellet grill, it also offers a more versatile culinary experience. You have the freedom to slow cook a large slab of ribs for more than 10 hours, or sear shrimp in seconds. If you’re someone who likes to have lots of options when barbecuing, then a pellet grill offers exactly that. You can also switch out your wood pellets for different flavors, which allows you to make very specific decisions about the flavor of your grilled meats. This is something that charcoal grills and gas grills simply cannot replicate.

Finally, many (not all) pellet grills have WiFi and/or Bluetooth connectivity. This allows you to use precision planning for your meal and make specific changes on a dime to maximize efficiency, not to mention flavor. You can change the temperature, the cooking zones, and even turn the unit on and off from your phone. It’s the ultimate 21st century grilling experience. 

Traditional pellet grills

Most retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target carry a wide variety of pellet grills. Because there’s so much competition between manufacturers, as well as amongst retailers, it’s not hard to find great deals when shopping for one. If you’re looking for a low price, then traditional pellet grills without electronic device connectivity may be your best bet. These models are also ideal for those who may not necessarily want to be attached to their tech while barbecuing a delicious rack of ribs. 

Traeger Grills Pro 22 Pellet Grill

Pit Boss Tabletop Pellet Grill

Z Grills Outdoor Wood Pellet Grill

Damniss Electric Pellet Grill

Device-connected pellet grills

For those who like to have maximum control over their grill, even when they’re resting comfortably in the house, there are options for you as well. Although WiFi-connected smart pellet grills are not as common as traditional models, they’re available to those who want one. Not only do these grills cook perfect juicy meat like their traditional counterparts, but they take grilling into the future, allowing you to cater your cooking experience to be exactly what you want it to be.

Zelos 450 WiFi-Enabled Pellet Grill

Traeger Pro 575 Pellet Grill with WiFi

Whether you’re a traditionalist who wants to be ever-present throughout the cooking process, or you’re a techie who likes all sorts of gadgetry for assistance, there’s a pellet grill for you. No matter what style you choose, you’re sure to be pleasantly surprised by the ease of the process as well as the intense flavor they offer. Our mouths are watering just thinking about it.

TheStreet Shopping is your guide for shopping insights and advice. We look beyond the price tag to find the best value in home, tech, and wellness gear based on product features and real-world use. Read more about our Editorial Standards and How We Choose Our Shopping Deals.