Top 15 Best Pellet Grills Under $500 You Should Definitely Buy In 2023

Grilling has always been one of the favorite hobbies of men worldwide. However, you have to admit that it is not cheap to buy a good grill and firewood to ensure that your grilling experience is top-notch. Therefore, you try to buy the best pellet grills under $500. 

However, the process is relatively exhausting and challenging due to the wide availability of these products and the lack of good reviews.

If you don’t want to waste your hard-earned money on buying those commercial charcoal grills that burn through both cash and time, try one of these. These affordable pellet grills will help you get the meat done just the way you like it. So here are our top 5 recommendations:

Best for user-friendly feature: Z Grills ZPG-7002B 2020 Upgrade Wood Pellet Grill

Best for affordability: Z GRILLS ZPG-6002E 2021 New Model Wood Pellet Grill

Best for high-quality materials: Z GRILLS ZPG-7002B Wood Pellet Smoker

Best for saving spaces: Z GRILLS 550A Wood Pellet Grill BBQ Smoker

Best for adjustable settings: Z GRILLS ZPG-5502H Wood Pellet Grill

Bestseller No. 1
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill with Viewing Window & Adjustable Temperature Control to 450F, 118 sq. in. Surface Serves 6, Removable Nonstick Grate, Stainless Steel
  • ENJOY OUTDOOR FLAVOR INDOORS. Grill your favorite foods year-round in any weather with this Hamilton Beach indoor grill. There's no need for a bulky, time-consuming outdoor grill that needs propane, charcoal or lighter fluid to heat up.
  • LOCK IN JUICES AND FLAVOR — SEAR AT 450° F. The high searing heat of 450° F (232° C) locks in juices and flavors to provide perfect grilling results for everything you sear on this electric grill, from steak and burgers to pork chops and fish fillets.
  • KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR FOOD: This indoor grill with hood comes with a convenient window in lid lets you watch food cook while keeping heat inside.
  • EASY-TO-CLEAN NONSTICK GRILLING PLATE. The nonstick grilling plate keeps food from sticking to this indoor electric grill as you cook and is removable and dishwasher safe, so there's no more endless scraping to remove stuck-on food.
  • VERSATILE GRILLING TEMPERATURES LET YOU GRILL EVERYTHING: From quick grilled shrimp and scallops to mushrooms, peppers and pineapple, there's almost no limit to the versatility of grilling, since the temperature adjusts from 200° F to 450° F.
SaleBestseller No. 2
Smokeless Indoor Electric BBQ Grill with Glass Lid, Dishwasher Safe, PFOA-Free Nonstick, Adjustable Temperature, Fast Heat Up, Low-Fat Meals Easy to Clean Design
  • DON’T LET RAIN RUIN YOUR BARBECUES ANYMORE! – Enjoy all the fun of an outdoor BBQ in the comfort of your home with our premium indoor electric grill and prepare the most mouth-watering meals for your family!
  • SAVE TIME & GRILL ALL YOUR FAVORITE FOODS AT ONCE! – Now you can throw your steaks, your wife’s veggies, your son’s ribs and your daughter’s salmon on the large 14" grilling surface at once! And thanks to its reliable PFOA-Free nonstick coating, you’ll never have to deal with stuck food again! Plus, there’s a removable 120V/1300W thermostat control with 5 adjustable settings up to 450°F.
  • ENJOY ALL YOUR LOW-FAT, HEALTHY RECIPES EFFORTLESSLY! – Our reliable indoor grill features a circular heating element that allows it to heat up faster and more evenly, so you can cook everything to perfection! Fat will drip away from your food and cool-touch base and handles will prevent any nasty burns!
  • DISHWASHER SAFE PARTS – We know that cleaning your grill can be extremely frustrating, that’s why we’ve made sure that all parts of our electric grill are detachable and dishwasher safe. Now you can spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your delicious grilled food!
  • 1-YEAR WARRANTY – Designed by BBQ lovers for BBQ lovers, this ergonomic and sturdy indoor grill comes with an EXCLUSIVE 1-YEAR WARRANTY! Included removable parts: Grill base, drip tray, extra large non-stick grill plate, tempered glass lid, thermostat control knob, instruction manual with recipe guide.
SaleBestseller No. 3
Weber Summit S-460 Built-In Natural Gas in Stainless Steel Grill
  • This product is a Natural Gas unit and you must have Natural Gas plumbed out to your patio or deck to be able to use this grill; If you do not have Natural Gas plumbed, please look at our selection of Propane barbecues
  • 4 Stainless steel burners
  • 48,800 BTU-per-hour input
  • 10,600 BTU-per-hour input sear burner
  • 6,800 BTU-per-hour input smoker burner and stainless steel smoker box
Bestseller No. 4
Mont Alpi MAi400-DFC 32-Inch 4-Burner 78000 BTU Deluxe Stainless Steel Gas Outdoor Kitchen Bar Barbecue Island Grill w/ Infrared Side Burner + Wine Cooler Compact Refrigerator + Rotisserie Kit
  • ISLAND FEATURES - The MAi400-DFC 32-inch island gas grill arrives fully assembled (modular attachment required) and features 4 tubular stainless steel high efficiency burners with a rear height-adjustable ceramic infrared rear burner and a standalone side burner that produce 78,000 BTU’s of heat output. The grill also features a stainless steel warming rack, 8mm stainless steel cooking grids and a generous cooking area of 28-inches x 18-inches (792 square Inches of total cooking area).
  • ADDITIONAL FEATURES - A double lined grill hood with temperature gauge is standard for maximum heat retention. The grill has two cooking surface halogen lights, On/off red/blue changing control knob lights, a bottle opener, electronic ignition, and easy access full front pull-out grease tray for easy cleaning. Storage drawers and cabinets come standard. Your outdoor kitchen will also come with gliding castor wheels for smooth and easy-to-maneuver movement and increased stability.
  • REFRIGERATOR FEATURES - The outdoor rated MAF refrigerator is made with heavy duty 304 stainless steel construction for durability and resistance to the elements. It comes with a stylish glass door for easy viewing of contents and interior blue LED lighting as well to improve visibility and overall user experience. Additional features include temperature control, adjustable shelves, and a lockable door to secure contents and prevent unauthorized access. Dimensions - 18 1/2” x 17” x 27”
  • FRIDGE CABINET FEATURES - The Mont Alpi deluxe outdoor fridge cabinet is a great addition to your Mont Alpi island grill outdoor kitchen setup with matching stainless steel and granite countertop components for a sleek and more attractive design that complements your outdoor space and enhances the look of your outdoor kitchen. Dimensions - 25” x 23” x 35”
  • INCLUDED ACCESSORIES - You will also get a 120V 4 Watt heavy duty electric motor rotisserie kit (holds up to 25 lbs), chopping board, white granite surfaces and waterfall sides, plus a waterproof outdoor rated weather cover to protect your grill from the elements.
Bestseller No. 5
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Searing Grill with Adjustable Temperature Control to 450F, Removable Nonstick Grate, 118 sq. in. Surface Serves 6, Stainless Steel
  • Locks in juices and flavors:Adjustable temperature control ranges from 200° to Sear at 450 degrees to grill at lower heat for optimal grilling results
  • Enjoy grilling all year long: This indoor grill with hood has a high searing heat that locks in juices and flavors, and lid closes to give you signature grill marks; Serves up to 6 with 118 square inch grilling surface
  • Easy to clean: Indoor grill hood, plate, and extra-large drip tray are all removable and dishwasher safe
  • Less mess: Extra-large drip tray catches juices so they don't spill on your counter and it's dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
  • Power and preheat lights: Eliminate guesswork while using your electric grill
SaleBestseller No. 6
Ninja AG301 Foodi 5-in-1 Indoor Grill with Air Fry, Roast, Bake & Dehydrate, Black/Silver
  • THE ORIGINAL NINJA FOODI GRILL: The grill that sears, sizzles, and air fry crisps. Indoor grill and air fryer.
  • CYCLONIC GRILLING TECHNOLOGY: Uses 500°F cyclonic air to perfectly cook or char grill your food to your desired doneness on the grill grate for delicious, char-grilled marks and flavors.
  • OUTDOOR GRILLING POWER ON YOUR COUNTERTOP: With the BTU cooking power of an outdoor grill, it brings outdoor grill flavors conveniently to your countertop any day of the year.
  • FORGET ABOUT DEFROSTING: Transform foods from frozen to perfectly char grilled in under 25 minutes.
  • UP TO 75% LESS FAT: Air fry crisp with up to 75% less fat than deep frying (tested against hand-cut, deep-fried French fries), using the included 4-qt crisper basket.
Bestseller No. 7
Weber Summit S-460 Built-In Liquid Propane in Stainless Steel Grill
  • 4 Stainless steel burners
  • 48,800 BTU-per-hour input. Dimensions - lid open (inches): 58H x 34W x 31D
  • 10,600 BTU-per-hour input sear burner
  • 6,800 BTU-per-hour input smoker burner and stainless steel smoker box
  • 4 Stainless steel burners
Bestseller No. 8
Commercial Griddle, Elite Kitchen Supply Countertop 48" Flat Top Grill Natural Gas (NG) / Propane Countertop Griddle with 4 Burners - 120000 BTU
  • 【Stainless steel Countertop Griddle】Griddle countertop grill is made of a premium grade stainless steel construction, Adjustable, stainless steel legs. Full length seamless drip pan, easy to remove and clean.
  • 【Powerful Energy】With 4 burners griddle, single burner: 30000 BTU/H, combined: 120000 BTU/H, Independent manual controls, Each griddles is shipped with Standard Natural Gas, LP conversion kit.
  • 【Wide Application】Griddle for gas grill, this countertop griddle is Great for cooking burgers, bacon, cheesteak, and other grilled favorites, this countertop griddle provides you with versatility and convenience.
  • 【Warranty Service】Our Elite Kitchen Supply commercial stove are all certified in the United States is ETL certified. 1 Year Parts and Labor Warranty for commercial use only.
  • Work Area: 47.86 x 20.50 in
Bestseller No. 9
George Foreman 4-Serving Removable Plate Grill and Panini Press, Black, GRP1060B
  • Included Components: Dishwasher Safe Removable Plates
  • Removable Plates - Easy cleanup is essential, and that’s what the removable grill plates are all about. Pop them in the dishwasher after grilling and they’ll be ready to go for your next meal.
  • 35% Faster Heatup - Less time heating, more time eating! The improved heating elements preheat 35% faster to get you from plug-in to plate in record time.
Bestseller No. 10
George Foreman 2-Serving Classic Plate Electric Indoor Grill and Panini Press, Black, GRS040B
  • 2 Servings - Tight on countertop space? This grill is your answer. It fits two servings of your grilled favorites, and it’s perfect for small apartments and couples.
  • New Space-Saving Design* - With a low profile and vertical storage capabilities, it’s simple to fit the grill in small spaces on your countertop or in the cupboard.
  • Advanced George Tough Nonstick Coating - There’s a lot to love about this nonstick coating. It’s 3x more durable**, easy to clean, and removes the need for butter and oil.
  • Adjustable Grilling Angle - Set the grill at an angle to remove excess fat during grilling, or put it flat for panini and other toasting tasks. The hinged grill legs are simple to adjust.
  • Exclusive Fat-Removing Slope - It’s the sure sign of a George Foreman Grill. The sloped grilling surface helps remove excess fat for tasty meals and healthy grilling. Perfect for individuals or couples
SaleBestseller No. 11
Chefman Electric Smokeless Indoor Grill w/Non-Stick Cooking Surface & Adjustable Temperature Knob from Warm to Sear for Customized BBQing, Dishwasher Safe Removable Water Tray, Black
  • GRILLED FLAVOR, LESS SMOKE: This grill produces less smoke than traditional indoor grills, so you can enjoy perfectly grilled food year-round without having to brave the cold weather. To achieve that perfectly smoke-free grilling indoors, the water tray must be filled with water between the minimum and maximum line. The water instantly cools the grease that falls on it, preventing it from sticking to the tray or from smoking.
  • COOKING IN THE ZONE: The temperature on this grill varies by heat zone, so you can cook anything and everything just the way you like! With an extra-large cooking surface, you can cook multiple foods at the same time for a complete meal. Control knob goes from warm to sear, which allows for cooking a variety of food; grilled veggies, burgers, steak, chicken, fish and more!
  • EASY TO CLEAN: Non-stick surface ensures meals will slide off the grill and onto your plate with ease. Disassembles for easy cleaning; grill top and non-stick water tray are removable and dishwasher safe so cleanup is as easy as grilling!
  • SAFETY FEATURES: No dangerous fumes, cool-touch handles and overheat auto shut-off protection offer added safety so you can cook without worry, 1120 Watts and 120 Volts.
  • RESOURCES: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability, & 1-year assurance provided by Chefman, so you can purchase worry-free - we've got your back! For information on how to use your product, scroll down for a PDF User Guide. RJ23-SG
SaleBestseller No. 12
Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil & Dehydrate, Smart Thermometer, Black/Silver
  • NINJA FOODI SMART XL GRILL: The Smart XL grill that sears, sizzles, and crisps. Indoor countertop Grill and Air Fryer with the Smart Cook System & Thermometer.
  • CYCLONIC GRILLING TECHNOLOGY: Uses 500°F cyclonic air to perfectly cook or char grill your food to your desired doneness on the grill grate for delicious, char-grilled marks and flavors.
  • SMART COOK SYSTEM plus THERMOMETER: The Foodi Smart Thermometer enable you to achieve the perfect doneness from rare to well with 4 smart protein settings & 9 customizable doneness levels. Do it all at a touch of a button with no more guesswork & no more over or under cooking.
  • XL CAPACITY: Grill grate fits up to 6 steaks, up to 24 hot dogs, mains, and sides at the same time, and more.
  • 6 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil and Dehydrate functions enabled by the wide temperature range.
Bestseller No. 13
Waring Commercial WFG275 Full Sized 14" x 14" Flat Toasting Grill, 120V, 1800W, 5-15 Phase Plug
  • Brushed stainless steel body and removable drip tray
  • Hinged, auto-balancing top plate suits foods up to 3" thick
  • Adjustable thermostat to 570F
  • POWER and READY indicator lights
  • UL, NSF
SaleBestseller No. 14
Hamilton Beach Electric Indoor Grill, 6-Serving, Nonstick Easy Clean Plates, Silver (25371)
  • Large Size: Family sized 90 square inch surface can grill up to 6 servings at once whether it's hamburgers, hotdogs, or chicken kabobs. Also great for Keto and Paleo diets.
  • Grills Meals in 10 Minutes or Less: Great for a Quick Meal and Fats Drain Into Removable Drip Tray
  • Easy to Clean: the Nonstick Plates Easily Wipes Clean and the Drip Tray Removes for Easy, Dishwasher Safe Cleaning.
  • Low-Fat Grilling: Fat Drips Away From Food as It Cooks
  • Power and Preheat Lights: Let You Know Exactly When to Add Your Food to the Cooking Surface for Best Results
SaleBestseller No. 15
Hamilton Beach 3-in-1 Electric Indoor Grill + Griddle, 8-Serving, Reversible Nonstick Plates, 2 Cooking Zones with Adjustable Temperature (38546), Black
  • 3-in-1 Cooking Versatility: Full griddle, full grill, half grill/half griddle. Reversible plates include a griddle on 1 side and grill on the other.
  • Great for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner: From Pancakes, Eggs and Bacon for Breakfast, to Grilled Cheese and Hot Sandwiches for Lunch to Grilled Steaks, Hamburgers, Chicken, Fish, Pizza, Vegetables and More, It Can Be Used for Any Meal.
  • Double Cooking Zones: 2 Cooking Areas With Independent, Adjustable Heat and a Center Grease Channel With Drip Tray Underneath.
  • Cook for One or a Family: Large 180 Square Inch Surface Cooks up to 8 Servings for a Family Meal.
  • Easy to Clean: The Pfoa-Free Nonstick Plates and Drip Tray Are Removable for Easy, Dishwasher Safe Cleaning
Bestseller No. 16
Presto 07061 22-inch Electric Griddle With Removable Handles, Black, 22-inch
  • Premium nonstick surface provides stick-free cooking and easy cleaning. Slide-out drip tray removes and cleans easily.
  • Control Master heat control maintains the desired cooking temperature automatically. Heavy cast aluminum base is virtually warp-proof.
  • Griddle is fully immersible with the heat control removed.
  • Simply open latch clips to detach handles from griddle base. No tools needed.
  • With handles removed, base stores in most standard 18-inch kitchen cabinets.Cooking area: 231 square inch
Bestseller No. 17
George Foreman® Contact Submersible™ Grill, NEW Dishwasher Safe, Wash the Entire Grill, Easy-to-Clean Nonstick
  • Wash the Entire Grill^: For a complete clean, remove the control panel, and place all remaining components in the dishwasher. ^Remove control panel to wash grill
  • Fast Heat-Up: 30% faster preheat* for quick and easy meals. * vs. George Foreman Grill GRP0004B
  • Advanced George Tough Nonstick Coating: 3X more durable** nonstick coated grill plates. **Compared to standard George Tough non-stick coating
  • Compact Design & Vertical Storage: Same serving size, uses less counter space.*** ***35% smaller vs. George Foreman Removable Plate Grill, GRP1060B
  • Family Size Grill: Allows up to 4 servings.
Bestseller No. 18
T-Fal OptiGrill Stainless Steel Electric Grill 4 Servings 6 Intelligent Automatic Cooking Modes 1800 Watts Nonstick Removable Plates, Dishwasher Safe, Indoor, Frozen Food
  • First electric indoor grill that cooks by adapting its grilling cycles to the thickness of the foods
  • 6 automatic cooking programs for Burger, Poultry, Sandwich, Sausage, Red Meat and Fish; Cooking surface: 600 square centimeter
  • Easy monitoring of the cooking process with its preheating / ready indicator lights and audible beeps for rare, medium, and well done
  • 2 cooking modes: 1 for frozen food and a manual mode so you can cook anything the way you want; Large juice tray and plates with an angle of 7° to ensure cooking juices run off.
  • Die cast aluminum and removable nonstick plates for effortless food release and cleaning; dishwasher safe drip tray and plates; Refer the complete userguide before using the product
SaleBestseller No. 19
Hamilton Beach Steak Lover's Electric Indoor Searing Grill, Nonstick 100 Square, Stainless Steel (25331), Black and Stainless, Medium
  • ENJOY OUTDOOR FLAVOR INDOORS: Grill steaks and all your favorite foods year-round in any weather with this Hamilton Beach indoor grill. There's no need for a bulky, time-consuming outdoor grill that needs propane, charcoal or lighter fluid to heat up.
  • LARGE NONSTICK SURFACE FITS 4 TUNA STEAKS OR BURGERS: The 100 sq. in. nonstick, cooking surface on the indoor electric grill has plenty of space for cooking a variety of meats, veggies or panini sandwiches.
  • LOCK IN JUICES AND FLAVOR — SEAR AT 500° F: Just press the illuminated sear button to sear meats and vegetables at 500° F (260° C) for perfect results every time. The grill sears then automatically switches to your selected grilling temperature.
  • QUICK, DELICIOUS MEALS IN LESS THAN 10 MINUTES: Not only will you get meals on the table fast when you cook on this grill, the food will taste great. The grill sears meats like beef, fish and chicken for most, tender results and maximum flavor.
  • EASY TO CLEAN: The nonstick grilling plates keeps food from sticking as you cook and is easy to wipe clean after it cools, and the drip tray goes right in the dishwasher.
Bestseller No. 20
Cadco CPG-20F Double Panini/Clamshell 220-Volt Grill with Smooth Top Plate, Stainless Steel
  • Two 10-inch by 10-inch glass cooking surfaces
  • Two adjustable thermostats up to 700 degrees F
  • Pull out grease tray
  • Cleaning scraper included
  • Cool-touch handles

Best Pellet Grills Under $500 In 2023

Z Grills ZPG-7002B 2020 Upgrade Wood Pellet Grill 

Sale
Z GRILLS ZPG-7002B 2020 Upgrade Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, 8 in 1 BBQ Grill Auto Temperature Controls, inch Cooking Area, 700 sq in Black
  • ULTIMATE 8-IN-1 WOOD PELLET GRILL & SMOKER - bbq✓bake✓roast✓braise✓smoke✓grill✓sear✓char-grill, you can do everything on here
  • PELLET GRILL TECHNOLOGY - It’s the best and easiest way to get wood-smoked flavors. Anyone will instantly realize the taste is better than a gas or charcoal grill
  • MAKES YOU A GOOD CHEF - One button starts up, this pellet grill will maintain the preset temperature within 10 degrees fluctuation and produce the optimal amount of smoke, easy and steady
  • FOR FAMILIES AND PARTIES - Features 700 sq inches of wide cooking space that allows you to place all at once and cook efficiently, 180° to 450° F Adjustable temperature range gives you great flexibility for different food
  • LESS PELLET FILLING, MORE SMOKING - The 20 lbs large-capacity pellet hopper offers a longer cooking time, eliminating the need to refill the hopper constantly

This pellet grill is an excellent upgrade for anyone familiar with pellet grills and has been looking for something more accessible and more efficient. It is easy to use, and one push starts up the burners. It also allows you to adjust the temperature quickly.

Generally, it is made for indoor and outdoor use. Youheatedtook can use it on the patio to cook on from its looks. It has ample space for storage and is made from sturdy material.

Pros:

– Great temperature control

– Easy assembly

– Competitive price

– Fantastic

Cons:

– Offers less smoke flavor 

Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Pellet Grill

Sale
Z GRILLS ZPG-450A 2022 Upgrade Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker 6 in 1 BBQ Grill Auto Temperature Control, 450 Sq in Bronze
  • ULTIMATE 8-IN-1 (Cover included): Barbecue wood fire pellet grill: bbq✓bake✓roast✓braise✓smoke✓grill✓sear✓char-grill
  • Pellet Grill Technology: There isn't an easier way to get wood-smoked flavors than with a pellet grill. Try it, and you'll taste the difference from a GAS or CHARCOAL grill
  • Set the Temperature, Relax, and Enjoy: Z Grills pellet grills will do all the work for you once you set the temperature. No labor-intensive start-up. No babysitting the grill. Enjoy the cooking.
  • Consistent Results Every Time: The PID technology holds the tightest temperature possible throughout your cooking for consistent results.
  • Smoke, Grill, and Everything in Between: With its 180° to 450° F temperature range, this pellet grill has 8-in-1 versatility to grill, smoke, bake, roast, sear, braise, barbecue, and char-grill with incredible hardwood flavor.

If you want authentic wood-smoked food, a Z GRILLS pellet grill is what you need. Its hardwood pellet burners are the best way to preserve the flavor of the wood, giving you more than 150 flavors to choose from.

This Z Grills pellet grill is made to the exacting standards and specifications that the best pellet grills from the competition come to mind. The removable grilling rack makes cleaning a breeze.

With a beaver tail-type safety valve, the Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Pellet Grill is perfect for smaller homes, as it can handle up to 50 pounds of wood pellets or charcoal.

Generally, this Z gourmet grill is perfect for anyone looking for quality cooking without having to spend a lot of money on a grill. The two wire-front grills allow you to cook both sides of meats and vegetables simultaneously.

Pros:

– Cooks perfectly

– Simple to move around

– User-friendly

Cons:

– You can’t use charcoal as an alternative

Z GRILLS ZPG-6002E 2021 New Model Wood Pellet Grill

Z GRILLS ZPG-6002E 2021 New Model Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, 8 in 1 BBQ Grill Auto Temperature Control, Stainless & Silver
  • ★ULTIMATE 8-IN-1--Barbecue wood fire pellet grill: grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, barbeque.
  • ★SEARING ENABLED: Temperature can goes as high as 1000℉. Just open the air door to sear and adjust the tempterature control to the Maximum, then then grill will change to searing mode.
  • ★PELLET GRILL TECHNOLOGY--★ FLAVOR--There just isn’t an easier way to get the flavor of wood smoked food than with a pellet grill. Try it and you’ll taste the difference from a GAS or CHARCOAL grill; ★ ACCURACY--Most stay within 10 degrees of the set temperature, no matter if its 10 degrees or 110 degrees outside; ★EFFICIENCY--You can cook for about 20 hours per 20 lbs. of pellets. When you do the math, you will find that pellet cooking typically costs less than a comparably sized GAS or CHARCOAL grills
  • ★EASIER THAN YOU THOUGHT--One button starts up and temperature control eliminates starter fluid. No need to run to the local station to trade in your propane. ★EASY TO USE--Electronic AUTO-Start Ignition, Digital Auto Temperature Control, LED temperature readout. Super easy cooking even for beginners. ★EASY TO CLEAN--Special Designed Waste Oil Collector to assist you with safe and easy cleanup. ★EASY TO MOVE--Upgraded cart with locking caster wheels.
  • ★2020 NEW MODEL--More Precise Temperature Control and Pellet Feed Control System. The new upgrade digital control board auto ignites the grill and allows you to set the cooking temperature from 180°f to 450°f.

The Z GRILLS ZPG-6002E 2021 New Model Wood Pellet Grill is of excellent quality and reasonably priced.

This is an all-new model of ZGRILLS pellet grill. We had previously owned an old model, but it took up too much space and heated the house; we finally decided to go with the new model with many changes.

This new model wood pellet grill has a removable ash catcher and a large stainless steel cooking surface. It also features a lightweight, lockable door to prevent the door from being pushed open.

Generally, this wood pellet seems perfect for beginners and novice grills. It has a few key features that make it very user-friendly. It uses slightly larger pellets which are ideal for those looking to get into smoked food.

Pros:

– Easy temperature settings

– Great value for the money

– Easy operation

– Cleaning is a breeze

Cons:

– None

Z GRILLS ZPG-7002B Wood Pellet Smoker

Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Smoker, 700sq in 8-1 BBQ Grill, Auto Temperature Control Pellet Smoker(Cover, Oil Collector Included)-ZPG-7002B
  • 8-in-1Pellet Smoker(2021 New Model)----Grill, smoke, bake, roast, sear, braise, barbecue and char-grill. Just set it and let it work: No more babysitting. Enjoy the cooking!Cover and Oil collector included.
  • Huge Grilling Area----330 Square inches main grilling area and 270 square inch Smoking/Warming Rack; Foldable working shelf; You can cook for about 20 hours per 20 lbs. of pellets. When you do the math, you will find that pellet cooking typically costs less than a comparably sized GAS or CARBON grill.
  • Searing Enable----Temperature can goes as high as 1000℉. Just open the air door to sear and adjust the temperature control to the Maximum, then then grill will change to searing mode.
  • Accuracy(PID Controller )--Most stay within 10 degrees of the set temperature, no matter if its 10 degrees or 110 degrees outside; Temperature and Auto Pellet Feed Control System with PID CONTROLLER. The new upgrade digital control board auto ignites the grill and allows you to set the cooking temperature from 180°F to 450°F.
  • US-Based Brand and Customer Service--We’re a U. S-based Brand that has been making high-quality grills and smokers for more than 30 years. With warehouses in Los Angeles, California and Atlanta, Georgia, we’ve exported top-of-the-line products to Europe and all around the United States. We’re proud of what we do and stand behind everything that we build.

Z Gas has built a name for itself in the world of grills. You are fortunate to have discovered the Z Gas Grill; this is one of their top-selling grills on their website.

This Z GRILLS ZPG-7002B Wood Pellet Smoker is a perfect choice for anyone who wants to enjoy their favorite BBQ recipes with less work, less clean-up, and less money. 

This wood pellet smoker is great for making pork ribs, chicken, steak, and other meats. This smoker is super easy to use. All you have to do is open the damper and seal it in the meat.

This smoker is an excellent addition to anyone’s backyard arsenal. The automatic ignition takes the guesswork out of it; all you have to do is start the fire, put the meat and veggies in the smoker, and start your party!

Generally, this pellet smoker is a very well-built unit with the highest quality of materials. We were impressed with the overall construction, design, and durability.

Pros:

– Amazing quality

– High build quality

– Smokes perfectly

– Easy cleaning

Cons:

– The cover that comes included is not wide enough. 

Z GRILLS 550A Wood Pellet Grill BBQ Smoker 

Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill BBQ Smoker 550A, 2020 Upgrade, 8-in-1
  • Versatility 8-in-1 Pellet Grill: Grill, BBQ, smoke, roast, sear, braise, bake, char-grill, 8-in-1 versatility allows you to cook hot/fast or low/slow. Smoke ribs, jerky, fish, bake biscuits, pizza, grill burgers and vegetables, anything you would like to cook.
  • Advanced Wood Fire Technology:Z Grills wood pellet technology gets you wood fire flavor at the convenience of propane or gas. Put enough pellets into the hopper then, turn the dial to any temperature mode, enjoy the wood faver food with your family.10 lbs pellets can be used for 8 hours while stay at smoke dial.
  • Digital Control System: Digital temperature helps you regulate the temperature. The temper could stay within 10 degrees of the settled temperature. Convection heat distribution technology ensures food gets cooked evenly to perfection.
  • Handy Grease Bucket: An oil collector to help you collect hot grease while grilling with safe.
  • Bottom Shelf for Storage: Large bottom shelf provide additional storage space, and it's easy to clean.

This wood pellet smoker is a fantastic tool to cook whatever you desire. It has a robust and durable frame that can be stacked upon to save space while cooking. It is also great for keeping your favorite foods warm at the BBQ.

When we first took this Z GRILLS 550A out of the box, it surprised us by the bulkiness of the smoker, but once we started to assemble it, we were surprised at how easy it was to make.

Generally, this pellet grill is ideal for grilling, smoking, roasting, and barbecue food. It is easy to use and operates efficiently. The grill has a digital temperature controller that keeps the temperature within the set range.

Pros:

– Smokes meat great

– High-quality build

– Worth-while purchase

Cons:

– None

Z GRILLS ZPG-5502H Wood Pellet Grill

Z GRILLS ZPG-5502H 2021 Upgrade Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, 8 in 1 BBQ Grill Auto Temperature Control, 553 sq in Black
  • ★NEW RELEASE: Z GRILLS 2021 Upgraded Model ZPG-5502H BBQ Grill with Auto Temperature Control (Rain Cover Not Included)
  • ★553 sq. in. Cooking Area: Two tiers of grill rack offer 553 sq. in. of total cooking area to feed around 4 people. The removable upper rack gives the extra height for the main surface when removed.
  • ★Incredibly Steady Temperature: The PID technology holds the tightest temperature possible throughout your cook for consistent results. Grill with confidence and get perfect food every single time.
  • ★Set It and Step Away Operation: Simply select the desired cooking temperature and let the smoker do the rest. No babysitting. It's all automatic. With Z Grills' digital temperature control, grilling has never been so easier.
  • ★8-in-1 Versatility: A wide temperature range from 180 to 450 °F allows you to bake, grill, smoke, BBQ, roast, braise, barbeque, and char-grill a seemingly unlimited amount of recipes.

This pellet grill is an excellent upgrade for anyone familiar with pellet grills and has been looking for something more accessible and more efficient.

Moreover, we bought this grill specifically to increase the cooking temperature. It did what it was supposed to. Every setting is adjustable, and the temperature can easily vary between 180F and 450F. The steaks came out juicy and delicious.

Overall, this wood pellet grill is ideal for looking for a quick, easy, and hassle-free way to cook.

Pros:

– High-quality

– User-friendly

– Great temperature control

Cons:

– Some inner works are hard to clean

Z GRILLS ZPG-600D Wood Pellet Grill

Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, BBQ & Outdoor, Electric Accurate Temperature Control, 600D
  • 🔥【Easier than you thought】:Auto-start ignition, digital temperature control, Led temperature readout, and pellet feed control system. Special designed waste oil collector to assist you with easy cleanup. Super easy cooking even for beginners.
  • 🔥【Precise Temp Control】:PID temperature controller maintains accurate temperatures from 180 to 450 ºF with advanced PID technology. The convenient fire access door allows for 750 ºF of direct flame searing.
  • 🔥【Huge Grilling Area】:572 sq. in cooking area provides more than enough space for any home grill fans, suitable for family and friends to BBQ in the courtyard or outdoors, easy to assemble and move.
  • 🔥【Advanced Wood Fire Technology】:Z Grills wood pellet technology gets you wood fire flavor at the convenience of propane or gas. Just put enough pellets into the hopper, pick your desired temperature and let Z Grills do the rest. (10 lbs pellets can be used for 8 hours while stay at smoke dial.)
  • 🔥【3 Years Warranty】:Z GRILLS is a grill manufacturer with over 30 years of experience, provides 3-YEAR quality assurance for products. We also have telephone and online support team, if you have any questions in the use, please feel free to contact us.

This Z Grill ZPG-600D wood pellet grill is perfect for the family, with a six-burner cooking surface and a full-sized warming oven, along with an under-the-surface thermometer that offers one of the largest cooking areas on the market.

This smoker can easily hold 10 pounds of wood pellets, making it an excellent grill for families with children at least 18 years old.

Overall, it is of excellent quality and sturdy grill with many nice features. The grill itself is perfect, but my favorite feature is the ability to set the temperature on the grill itself.

Pros:

– Simple setup

– Works perfectly

– Can use with various food

– Easy cleaning

Cons:

– Not suitable under windy environments

Green Mountain Wood Pellet Grill

Green Mountain Trek Wi-Fi Controlled Portable Wood Pellet Tailgating Grill - Small Smoker Grill for BBQ, Camping, Tailgating, RV
  • The Davy Crockett has been upgraded to the NEW GMG TREK PRIME
  • Stauncher legs and an exterior heat shield adjustment rod.
  • OPTIONAL: Stainless steel Trek cart (sold Seperately)
  • Digital WiFi controller (control and monitor through our iOS or Android mobile application), a meat probe, a peaked lid for rib racks, a convenience tray with utensil hooks, and Sense-Mate, a thermal sensor which constantly monitors grill temperature.
  • The grill can run on 12V or 120AC so it’s perfect for home or camping, tailgating, hunting, house-boating, music festivals or anywhere you can take it!

The Green Mountain Wood Pellet Grill is one of the best-selling pellet grills on the market and is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a durable, reliable, and accurate wood pellet grill.

This wood pellet grill is a great way to ensure that you don’t burn your food. It uses a wireless remote that allows you to monitor the temperature and set the temperature from afar.

We read tons of reviews before making my final choice, and we made a great choice. This Green Mountain Wood Pellet Grill is the best product out there, hands down.

Pros:

– Great customer service

– The temperature stays sturdy

– Easy to move

Cons: 

– The grease goes everywhere, according to some people. 

JINJUNYE Portable Pellet Grill

This is a great product! We were hesitant to buy it but were pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to use. I grilled the cheese, salmon, and chicken breasts, and the results were terrific.

This portable grill is perfect for those who enjoy camping or camping outdoors. The heat-insulating handle allows for safe and steady grilling, and the wheels allow for simple portability.

We are highly impressed with this pellet grill! It is very versatile, easy to use, and most importantly, it works! We have already made several meals on it; each time, it has provided a delicious flavor for the grilling food.

Pros:

– Easy installation

– Cover fits nicely around the grill

– Suitable for beginners

Cons:

– None

ZRILLS 2021 New Model Wood Pellet Grill

Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker with 552 Cooking Area & Front Shelf for Outdoor BBQ, Smoke, Bake and Roast, 550C
  • SMART TEMPS CONTROL - Automated electric feed system maintains temperature from 180ºF to 450ºF, Smart Digital Controller keeps temps within plus/- 20 degrees F and makes setting the grill temperature as easy as turning a dial
  • BUILT TO LAST - Sturdy steel construction with a high-temperature powder coating finish makes the pellet grill long-lasting
  • EXTRA STORAGE - Front table and bottom shelf provides the space to place grilling tools, condiments, and so on, keeping what you need within reach
  • SUPERIOR MOBILITY - 2 rugged wheels easily conquer any backyard terrain, while the 2 casters with locks promote smooth rolling and secure your grill in place
  • ULTIMATE 8 IN 1 - ZGRILLS Pellet Grill and Smoker: bbq✓bake✓roast✓braise✓smoke✓grill✓sear✓char-grill, you can do everything on here

This is an imposing pellet grill, especially for its size. It is truly a work of art and looks like an expensive piece of equipment. The seamless, one-piece design and heavy-duty construction make this a quality buy.

For every food enthusiast, this is a must-have. Grill, roast, stir fry, braise, barbeque, and more with this grill. We’ve used it to make jerky several times, and it’s always been excellent.

Generally, this Zrill pellet grill is incredible! It gives you the freedom to cook inside or outside or grill on the grill. 

Pros:

– Simple installation

– Easy-to-read instructions

– User-friendly

– Suitable for entry-level users

Cons:

– There are only a few temperature selections

PIT BOSS PB440D2 Wood Pellet Grill

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PIT BOSS PB440D2 Wood Pellet Grill, 440 SERIES, Black
  • Pit Boss 440 Deluxe Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
  • Premium Gauge Stainless Steel Construction
  • Removable Side Shelf/Serving Tray
  • Two large Wheels
  • Digital Control Board w/ LED Readout

This Pit Boss gas smoker is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to start cooking with wood. It is effortless to use, making it an excellent choice for beginners. It comes complete with a side shelf and a removable serving tray. 

Moreover, this wood pellet grill is powerful, easy to use, and great for any cook who needs to look professional when grilling or barbecuing.

Generally, this gas grill is an excellent choice for those in the market for a quality, reliable pellet grill that can also be used as a smoker. 

Pros:

– Simple to assemble and use

– Smokes well

– Reasonable price

Cons:

– The fire pot at the left side doesn’t evenly heat

Z Grills ZPG-7002F 2021 Upgrade Wood Pellet Grill

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Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Grill Smoker with PID Controller, 700 Cooking Area, Meat Probes, Rain Cover for Outdoor BBQ, 7002C
  • PID CONTROLLER - Automated electric feed system maintains temperature from 180°F to 450°F, the cutting-edge PID Controller keeps temps within plus/- 20°F throughout your cook
  • HUGE CAPACITY - 700 sq in grilling space is great for Home, party, and tailgating; 24 lbs large-capacity pellet hopper offers a longer cooking time
  • BUILT TO LAST - Sturdy steel construction with a high-temperature powder coating finish makes the pellet grill long-lasting
  • VIEWABLE WINDOW - Conveniently monitor pellet supply without having to lift the lid with the view window; You’ll be smoking for hours without needing to refill
  • HOPPER CLEANOUT - It makes emptying the hopper and swapping pellet flavors a breeze, Get ready to infuse your food with rich smoky flavor

We can’t say enough good things about this grill. First off, being able to control the temperature is a blessing. If there’s one thing our friend hates, it’s a hot dog that’s burned on the outside.

This wood pellet grill has a 900 square inch cooking area with 7 inches of convection fan-forced infrared heat and 880 square inches of primary cooking area. 

The Z Grills ZPG-7002F is designed to cook quickly and evenly with 19 liters of maximum cooking capacity.

Generally, this wood pellet grill is a perfect choice for campers, RVers, and backyard cooks. This grill comes with a beautiful stainless steel set of grates, has a sealed combustion chamber, and is easy to maintain.

Pros:

– Well-made

– User-friendly

– Great temperature control 

Cons:

– None

Traeger Wood Pellet Grill

Traeger Grills Pro Series 780 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker with WIFI Smart Home Technology, Bronze
  • NEVER USE GAS OR CHARCOAL AGAIN: Traeger created the original wood-pellet grill as the ultimate way to achieve wood-fired taste; The Pro 780 takes it to the next level with precise temperature control. 500 °F Max Temp
  • CONNECTED HOME TECHNOLOGY: WiFIRE technology connects your grill to home WiFi and the Traeger app allows the user to control the grill from anywhere.
  • VERSATILE BARBECUE COOKING: The Pro 780 pellet grill offers 6-in-1 versatility to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ all on the same grill; The Porcelain grill grates makes clean up a breeze
  • THE MARKET LEADER IN PELLET GRILLS: The Traeger Pro Series is the best-selling pellet grill; The upgraded Pro 780 with D2 drivetrain starts quicker, heats up faster, and puts out better quality smoke
  • BUILT FOR LARGE FAMILY COOKING: 780 sq in of grilling space that can accommodate thirty four burgers, six rib racks, or six chickens effortlessly; The built-in meat probe allows you to cook to perfection

This grill is an excellent addition to anyone looking for a tasty treat without the hassle of barbecuing. The advanced technology allows you to cook your food more evenly and build more savory meals in less time than traditional grills.

This pellet grill is the perfect addition to any outdoor space. Unlike propane, wood pellets do not carry a volatile substance and are safe to use in various situations. The porcelain grill grates make clean-up a breeze.

Generally, this is the perfect grill for anyone who loves to cook and grill. The grill interior has a digital temperature display, a drip tray, and a lid to sit open or closed.

Pros:

– Easy to regulate with the phone

– Simple to assemble

– Well-packaged

– Solid

Cons:

– Some helpful parts don’t come with the grill

Z GRILLS ZPG-10002E 2020 New Model Wood Pellet Grill

Z GRILLS ZPG-10002E 2020 New Model Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, 8 in 1 BBQ Grill Auto Temperature Control, 1060 sq in Silver
  • Features Upgrades
  • 1056 sq in wide cooking area, making it ideal for large groups or BBQ entertainment
  • Build in tool hooks, and side shelf, store all your grilling gear within easy reach
  • Stainless Steel Built - high resistance to corrosion, longer-lasting, with a sleek and polished finish
  • Cover included no need to purchase separately; US Based Brand, Manufacturer 3-year warranty

This is an excellent gas grill. It cooks evenly, with superior performance and a built-in thermometer. The build quality and layout of the grill are excellent, with a black powder coat and adjustable legs for easy placement.

We have used this unit several times, and I have been delighted with it. The stainless steel finish has not begun to scratch or show any signs of wear and tear.

Moreover, it is a great little grill for those constantly taking the grill on and off the patio or those who simply have a limited amount of space. 

Generally, this is a quality pellet grill perfect for all-weather use. The grill comes with a porcelain-enamel finish and is easy to clean.

Pros:

– Durable

– Reasonable price

– Keeps temperature even in cold weathers

Cons:

– Relatively challenging to assemble 

Cuisinart CPG-256 Portable Wood Pellet Grill

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Cuisinart CPG-256 Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, Black and Dark Gray
  • 8-in-1 COOKING CAPABILITIES: 256 sq.in. of cooking space, with an integrated Sear Zone expands your cooking capabilities; Smoke, BBQ, Grill, Roast, Sear, Braise, Bake, and Char-Grill.
  • PORTABLE DESIGN: Lightweight at 45lbs, 24 x 18 x 15, and the locking lid with handle makes it easy to take anywhere.
  • ADVANCED WOOD FIRE TECHNOLOGY: With a wide temperature range from 180°F to 500°F, the digital control automatically adds pellets as needed to regulate the temperature.
  • DIGITAL CONTROLLER: Electronic auto-start ignition, digital auto temperature control and real-time LED temperature display.

We love this pellet grill. It is my go-to place when we go camping and get tired of bringing my big grill. The high lift/downdraft door and the ability to add different types of pellets give us the ability to create a variety of meats.

For your information, it is a terrific outdoor grill with an easy-to-use digital control, heavy-duty materials, and easy-to-clean grill rack, and strong support legs.

Generally, this versatile portable charcoal pellet grill is ideal for food enthusiasts who enjoy various cuisines.

Pros:

– Versatile

– Large cooking area

– User-friendly

Cons:

– None

Introduction About The Best Pellet Grills Under $500

best pellet grills under $500

A pellet grill is a smoker that uses wood pellets as fuel, convenient for controlling the heat output and timing. The pellets are made from compressed sawdust and are fed into the grill through an auger, then cooking the food using the heat.

Pellet grills have a high initial cost, but their long-term running costs are more economical than wood grills. This makes them the best choice for cooking out in a group or as a barbeque grill.

Many pellets are made from compressed sawdust, but some are also made from other materials, including ground-up bark. Because pellets are made from sawdust, you don’t have to worry about causing food-borne illnesses like charcoal and gas grills.

Although more expensive than wood, pellets are much more convenient than charcoal. They burn more efficiently, allowing you to get more out of each load of fuel. Many also last longer than wood, so you don’t have to keep replacing them often.

Types Of Wood Used

best pellet grills under $500

Cooking is an essential part of any outdoor cooking system. When constructing a pellet grill, you must choose which types of wood will be used for the cooking chamber.

For the best smoke flavor, the cooking chamber should be made from hardwoods such as hickory, mesquite, oak, pecan, and plum. If a wood-burning grill is used, the cooking chamber should be made from softwood such as pine, cedar, or balsa.

The type of wood and its quantity will significantly affect its time to heat the grill. Hardwoods will take longer to heat up than softwoods, so plan on placing the grills in the areas that are not directly exposed to direct sunlight.

Some Features

best pellet grills under $500

A pellet grill often has other materials injected into the fire pot to make the specific mixture and administer particular treatments to the pellets.

Many pellet grills now use this modal, including adsorbed wood pellets. This approach gets the injectors without adding hormones, antibiotics, and other substances to the meat.

Some commercial-grade pellet grills also include a hot-spot generator to ignite pellets in the firepot, which allows for more consistent and efficient grilling. The pellet grill’s chamber typically burns from the bottom, where pellets are stacked on top of each other.

By comparison, in a gas grill, the main combustion chamber is typically at the top of the grill, where gas is more likely to pool due to distance from the burners.

Pellet Grill vs. Gas Grill

Pellet Grill

best pellet grills under $500

A pellet grill is a type of grill that uses compressed wood pellets as fuel. The pellets burn hot and fast, with a hint of smoke, to produce smokeless wood-fired barbecue.

The unique cooking style lends itself to bold flavor without liquid sauces, oils, or creams. However, pellets are still burned at a low temperature and smoke.

Gas Grill

best pellet grills under $500

Gas grills, in contrast, use pressurized gas to create heat. In a gas grill, the heat is typically produced in a metal chamber at the bottom of the grill. A large fan circulates the heat upward through an insulated hood at the top of the grill.

Unlike a wood-pellet grill, gas grills can be used indoors, offering more consistent temperature control. The two most common types of gas grills are horizontal and vertical. Flat gas grills have a front end made up of burners.

The back of the grill is made up of shelves and drawers, and the cooktop is a flat surface. Vertical gas grills have a flat cooktop in the front, with larger burners and shelves at the back.

Some gas grills also have a secondary area on the back of the grill where a movable grill grate directs the heat.

The Best Pellet Grills Under $500 Maintenance

If you want to keep your pellet grill in good condition, it’s essential to do regular maintenance. This includes cleaning the grill and checking the auger, hopper, and igniter. There are a few basic steps you can take to clean your grill.

Most manufacturers recommend cleaning the drip pan and firing chamber at least once a week, but it’s essential to follow the instructions that came with your grill. 

You may need to disassemble the pellet grill and soak it in a solution of water and vinegar for several hours before scrubbing.

Remove Wood Pellets And Ash

best pellet grills under $500

The first step to clean your pellet grill is to remove all of the wood pellets and ash. You can do this by either opening the hopper and emptying it or removing the auger and ash pan. Access the fuel system and filter if you need a brush to remove stubborn ash.

Most brands will have cleaning instructions in the user manual. Cleaning your pellet grill can be a bit of a hustle. Most of the pieces are foreign-made and challenging to clean properly. 

You’ll have to remove a bunch of screws, clean out the burn pot, and disassemble a lot of components.

Remember that the entire cook system will need to be disassembled when you are ready to scrub it. It’s worth the extra time and effort to take care of this step. Also, take the time to ensure that your pellet grill is completely dry before using it.

Remove Remaining Grease

best pellet grills under $500

The next step in cleaning a pellet grill is to remove all of the remaining old gunk and grease. With the help of an old toothbrush, you can easily scrub off any grime and clean out the entire inside of your grill. For a detailed tutorial on doing this, check out our complete guide on pellet grill cleaning.

Clean The Outside

best pellet grills under $500

Once you’ve cleaned the entire inside of your grill, it’s time to get serious about the outside. Use a stiff-bristle brush to remove any additional bits of stuck-on grime.

Once you’ve cleaned everything, you can use a natural bristle brush to get in the tiny spaces around the cooking grates and make sure that they are also spotless.

Clean The Cooking Grate

best pellet grills under $500

Next, clean out the cooking grates. You can do this by simply running a grill brush down the grate bars, but you’ll probably want to remove the grate covers as well.

These covers serve two purposes: first, they keep the cooking grates from rusting and looking nice; second, they help keep smoke and heat from escaping. Grab a stiff-bristle grill brush and run it up and down the grate bars to get rid of any lingering debris.

Dry The Grill

best pellet grills under $500

Rinse your grill grates and wipe them dry. Once the grate bars are clean, it’s time to put the grate covers back on.

At this point, your grill should be free of all but the faintest trace of grime. If you’re not ready to grill yet, keep the lid closed and set the covered grill on a clean kitchen countertop to dry completely. You can also return the grill to storage.

The Advantages of Owning The Best Pellet Grills Under $500

Burn Hotter And More Cleanly Than Charcoal

best pellet grills under $500

Regardless of their material, the primary advantage of pellets is that they burn hotter and more cleanly than charcoal. This means you can sear more aggressively without having to worry about flare-ups.

Pellets are also easier to control than charcoal, which can be hard to do if your smoker is fully loaded with fuel. Some pellet grills use wood pellets as fuel, but wood pellets have a shorter shelf life than briquettes.

Once a chunk of wood is burned, it cannot be re-used. Choose a pellet grill that uses briquettes instead if you have the option. The downside of pellets is that they are more expensive than briquettes, which can run you about $30 a ton.

Versatile

best pellet grills under $500

Wood pellet grills are also incredibly versatile, allowing you to smoke food, or grill up specialty dishes with a large cooking surface.

A pellet smoker allows you to smoke food inside of it in a slow-smoking tradition. These are your main course BBQs, but they can also be used to smoke things like fish, chicken, and even vegetables.

User-Friendly

best pellet grills under $500

Wood pellet grills are simple to assemble and use, making them an excellent choice for first-time users. And even if you’ve been BBQ’ing for years, this is still going to be the most accessible and most convenient form of grilling to use.

Most pellet grills include a built-in digital thermostat that lets you dial in your desired temperature with just a few clicks of your finger.

An electric pellet grill heats up faster than a wood-fired unit, too. The pellets are burned into the food. The heat is distributed throughout the cooking chamber through a metal plate or firepot.

Many electric pellet grills come with a digital controller, which means you can easily feed pellets into the hopper and then turn the grill on to get the food cooking without formulating any dirty dishes.

A digital controller also means you can use the grill hands-free without draining food or cleaning up a pellet fire. Many pellet grills also include a meat probe for precise temperature monitoring.

How to Choose the Best Pellet Grills Under $500

When choosing the right pellet grill for your needs, consider a few things.

Size

best pellet grills under $500

First, consider the size of your grill. Generally speaking, you’ll need about one square foot of cooking space per pound of meat you’re grilling.

So a standard full-size pellet grill, which usually heats up to around 700 square inches, should be enough for most people. That said, if you are cooking for a more prominent family or group of people and want to cook simultaneously, you might need a larger grill.

Temperature Control

best pellet grills under $500

Next, consider how you want your food to cook. If you’re cooking meat that will be well-done, like steaks and burgers, or if you prefer a more rare or medium-rare roast, then a pellet grill with adjustable temperature control is probably not for you.

Likewise, if you like your food rare or medium-rare, then a grill that can crank up the heat underneath the meat to the desired level is likely not going to be much good to you either.

Cooking Types

best pellet grills under $500

The first thing to consider is what you’ll be grilling on it. Pellet grills are designed for different types of cooking, depending on the model you choose. If you’re just getting started with grilling, check out our beginner’s guide to find the grill best suits your needs.

Once you have your grill, you’ll want to think about what type of food you plan to be grilling. Remember that pellet grills are not just for BBQing; other types of grills can accommodate both smoke and non-stick cooking surfaces.

For example, pellet grills can accommodate a pizza stone, or Miele d’Oro charcoal grills can handle cookies and other baked goods. You can also find pellet grills designed for smoking Potato, Tofu, and Vegetable (PTV) chips, and you can find grills that can smoke bread.

Purposes

best pellet grills under $500

For starters, it’s essential to know how you plan to use the grill. Are you planning on smoking meat? Are you planning on cooking some sausages and steaks? Will you be grilling all types of food, including vegetables and fruits?

Do you already have a smoker and just want to add a new, additional grill to your cooking arsenal? If you know what type of grill you’re looking for, chances are you can narrow down your options and get started with a specific brand and model.

Fuel Source

The first thing to consider is what kind of fuel source you want to use. This can be a little more confusing because there are three different types of fuels that you can use for grilling: Charcoal, Gas, and Propane. There is also a fourth option: electricity. However, buying an electric grill and the cost of purchasing an adapter can be prohibitive.

Charcoal

best pellet grills under $500

As the name suggests, using charcoal is the most traditional grill fuel. Charcoal is made from hardwood scraps, and other plant matter burned down to a black, carbonized powder. This stuff can be used as fuel for burning, like a log in a fire.

There are a couple of essential things to consider when buying charcoal. Charcoal can vary in its coarseness, from “bad” to “too much,” which affects the cooking time.

You also need to take into account the thickness of the carbonization layer. If it’s too thick, you will get an off-flavor, similar to when you burn steak on a grill that isn’t hot enough.

Wood

best pellet grills under $500

Using wood is similar to charcoal but with a couple of crucial differences. Wood is made from trees and other plants that have been cut down and dried.

When it is burned, the fire makes the wood go through a process called pyrolysis (a fancy word for “bad smell”). However, it has some advantages over charcoal:

It is easier to find and buy. Wood is everywhere, including in backyards, so that you will have more access to it. Moreover, it gives better results. You can use higher temperatures since the heat comes from your fire, not from the burning of charcoal.

Portability

Depending on what you want to grill, your next consideration will be how portable the grill is. Some grills are so compact that they fold up for easy storage and transportation.

This makes them suitable for tailgating, camping, and other outdoor activities. Although it will take more space than compact charcoal or propane smokers, a large gas grill is a good choice for the backyard.

If you are a first-time buyer, this video could be helpful to you:

FAQs About The Best Pellet Grills Under $500

-What are the best temperature holding pellet grills?

The best pellet grill temperature will vary based on the food being cooked. Pellet grills need to get hot enough to sear and smoke, but not so hot that the pellets begin to smoke. You can monitor the temperature with a digital thermometer like some models.

-Which is better, a pellet grill or a gas grill?

best pellet grills under $500

There is no clear winner between the two. A pellet grill is excellent for smoking and grilling, but a gas grill is better at searing meat. Most pellet grills allow you to switch between the two.

Some people prefer the griller side, some the smoker side. It’s all about what you’re used to and what you want from your grilling experience.

-What is the best way to grill salmon on a pellet grill?

The key to a perfectly grilled salmon fillet is to get the smoking temperature right. It is common for people who are new to grilling fish to overcook it on the grill, making it dry and rubbery.

To keep the fish moist, you need to know how to adjust the grill temperature properly. For grilling salmon fillets, you need to get the temperature right for rare, or at least close to it.

Conclusions

We hope that after this article, you’ve finally obtained sufficient information about the best pellet grill under $500. We were like you in the past; therefore, we know how satisfied and happy you have with this knowledge. Here is our top pick:

Sale
Z GRILLS ZPG-7002B 2020 Upgrade Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, 8 in 1 BBQ Grill Auto Temperature Controls, inch Cooking Area, 700 sq in Black
  • ULTIMATE 8-IN-1 WOOD PELLET GRILL & SMOKER - bbq✓bake✓roast✓braise✓smoke✓grill✓sear✓char-grill, you can do everything on here
  • PELLET GRILL TECHNOLOGY - It’s the best and easiest way to get wood-smoked flavors. Anyone will instantly realize the taste is better than a gas or charcoal grill
  • MAKES YOU A GOOD CHEF - One button starts up, this pellet grill will maintain the preset temperature within 10 degrees fluctuation and produce the optimal amount of smoke, easy and steady
  • FOR FAMILIES AND PARTIES - Features 700 sq inches of wide cooking space that allows you to place all at once and cook efficiently, 180° to 450° F Adjustable temperature range gives you great flexibility for different food
  • LESS PELLET FILLING, MORE SMOKING - The 20 lbs large-capacity pellet hopper offers a longer cooking time, eliminating the need to refill the hopper constantly

Sadly, we’ve come to the end of the article. Thank you for staying with us till the end. Goodbye and see you in our following reviews. 

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