9 Best Budget Pellet Grills in 2024: Buyers Guide & Reviews

Last update:
best cheap pellet grills

When I first decided to purchase a pellet grill, I was initially discouraged when I saw some of the prices.

Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable options out there as well—you just have to make sure you’re investing in a quality product.

Here’s the rundown on several of the best budget pellet grills on the current market.

In a rush? Here is the winner:

Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill w/New PID Gen 2 Digital Controller - Bronze
  • Automatic pellet auger dispenses when needed and shuts down when done
  • Upper Rack Area: 141 sq. in. | Lower Rack Area: 429 sq. in. | Total...
  • Hopper Capacity: 18 lbs. of pellets
  • Clean-out ash can makes clean up simple
  • Electronic auto-start ignition for quick and easy start every time

In this article, we’re going to review the following pellet grills:

Shopping on a Budget: Everything You Need To Know About Cheap Pellet Grills

It’s possible to get a decent pellet grill at a bargain price, but it helps if you know what you’re looking for in advance. By the time you’ve finished reading this section, you should be armed with the information that you need.

Why Should You Choose a Pellet Grill in the First Place?

For starters, these units can be ready to cook within minutes. That means you can decide on the spot whether or not you’d like to fire up the grill. This feature comes in especially handy when the weather is erratic.

Second, pellet grills imbue the food with a delectable smoky taste. Since pellets are made of real wood, they offer an excellent variety in the flavor department. That’s something that you’ll never get with a gas-powered unit.

You’ll also have more control over the temperature when you cook with a pellet grill. Most models are equipped with digital control panels that allow you to pre-select the temperature and simply walk away. Grilling enthusiasts refer to this perk as “set it and forget it,” and it comes in particularly handy when you’re entertaining guests. Some modern pellet grills are even equipped with WiFi capability, so you can control the temperature using an app that’s downloaded to your smartphone.

Finally, pellet-burning units offer more versatility than gas or charcoal grills. Since the temperature can be controlled manually, you can use the grill for multiple cooking techniques, from braising to searing.

Choosing the Best Pellet Grills for the Money

Most shoppers appreciate a bargain. However, when it comes to a major appliance like a pellet grill, you’ll want to pay close attention to the overall construction and durability of the unit.

The body of the grill should be composed of heavy-gauge steel, often with a powder finish. Sometimes, the manufacturer will advertise the materials used for the hopper component as well. Try to invest in a company that’s upfront about the construction of their product.

Check to see if the grilling grates are made of steel or cast iron. If it’s the former, look for 304-grade stainless steel. This is a restaurant-quality grade that resists corrosion, so the cooking grates should last for a long time with proper care.

best pellet grills for the money

If the grates are made of cast iron, they’ll probably feature a porcelain coating. While this makes cleanup easier, the porcelain is prone to chipping and flaking. This damage will adversely affect the grates’ ability to conduct heat. It’s also difficult to get good sear marks on a porcelain-enameled surface.

In addition to value and construction, what are the qualities you should look for in a pellet grill? Here’s a short list of the most important ones.

Cooking Surface

A grill with 400 to 600 square inches of cooking space should be sufficient for a family of four to six people. Since you’ll typically pay more for a large unit, cheap pellet grills tend to be on the smaller side. You might consider this a perk, especially if you’re planning on taking the grill along on camping trips or afternoon picnics.

Hopper Capacity

Unless it’s a travel-sized unit with fewer than 400 square inches of grilling space, the hopper should have a capacity of at least 15 pounds. This will cut down on the amount of time you need to spend refilling the hopper during the cooking process.

Temperature Range

Look for a unit with a range of at least 180 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. A broader range will give the unit greater versatility.

Warranty

Try to find a manufacturer that offers a warranty on parts for at least three years after the date of purchase. This indicates that the company has faith in their product and ensures that you’ll be able to get a replacement if something goes wrong.

The Best Way To Use a Pellet Grill

A properly functioning pellet grill opens up a whole new world of cooking opportunities. If the temperature can dip below 160 degrees, you can use the unit to make beef jerky or other dehydrated meats. Experiment with different fruit woods for smoked pulled pork. Give grilled steaks a flavor boost with hickory or mesquite. If the grill is large enough, you can even use it to smoke an entire turkey.

Safety Precautions

Remember that pellet grills have motors that run off electricity. This means that you’ll need to inspect the cord frequently for signs of damage. Also, make sure the cord is safely out of the way during use, so that it doesn’t pose a tripping hazard. Lastly, don’t use your pellet grill if it’s raining or snowing outside. This will greatly increase your risk of electrical shock.

Best Budget Pellet Grills: Product Review Guide

While the following list includes mainly budget-friendly options, it represents some of the best pellet grills for the money that you’re likely to find anywhere.

#1 Traeger Tailgater 20

Traeger Grills TFB30KLF Tailgater 20 Portable Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker – Foldable Legs, 6-in-1 Versatility, 300 sq. in. Cooking Space for Tailgating, Camping, and Outdoor BBQ

The Traeger Tailgater 20 is a basic straight-legged pellet grill that’s small enough to be taken on the road. The body is constructed of powder-coated steel, and the hopper can hold up to 8 pounds of pellets. When the hopper is empty, this unit weighs just 62 pounds. Porcelain-coated steel grilling grates help keep cleanup chores to a minimum, and two sturdy wheels make the unit more transportable once it’s been set up. The cooking surface measures 300 square inches, which is adequate for a travel grill. Still, it requires some finesse if you’re cooking for a number of people.

This model features “E-Z Fold” legs, so it can fit easily into the truck bed or the trunk of your car. We think it’s a little bit cumbersome for one person to carry, but two people can handle it easily. Also, note that the cord is fairly short, so you should plan ahead if you’re setting it up in an unfamiliar area. Finally, note that Traeger offers a three-year warranty for defective parts.

Pros:

  • Very easy to use
  • Portable grill
  • Folding legs
  • Shut down setting allows it to cool slowly

Cons:

  • Electrical cord is a little bit too short
  • Hook for drip bucket could be larger
  • Temperature control can be erratic

Check Price on Amazon

#2 Traeger Lil Tex Elite 22

Traeger Grills TFB42LZBO Lil Tex Elite Smoker-Grill, Smok, Bronze

One of Traeger’s most versatile units, the Lil Tex Elite is durable enough to be used as a home grill, but packs up easily for tailgating as well. With 418 square inches of grilling space, it’s ideal for couples or small families. Traeger claims that the surface can accommodate up to 16 hamburger patties or four chickens, but we’ve found that this estimate is slightly generous. It’s best to plan on about a dozen patties or three chickens to be on the safe side. The hopper can hold up to 18 pounds of pellets, which is large for a tailgating grill but perfect for home use.

This model features Traeger’s Digital Elite Control system, which is supposed to keep temperatures accurate to within 20 degrees Fahrenheit in either direction. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always deliver on this promise. Expect to spend some time fiddling with the controller during the cooking process.

The Lil Tex Elite 22 is outfitted with the company’s signature powder-coated steel construction, with porcelain-enameled steel grilling grates. Like the Tailgater, it features straight legs with two wheels for maneuverability. It’s also more expensive, with a price that puts it in line with some of the larger units on our list. However, quality construction and longevity are included in the cost. Traeger’s three-year warranty is in place for the Lil Tex Elite 22 in case you have any issues with defective parts.

Pros:

  • Can be used as a travel grill
  • Quality construction
  • Works well in cold weather

Cons:

  • Finicky control panel
  • Chimney allows moisture to seep in
  • Doesn’t impart much smoke flavor

Check Price on Amazon

Read our full Traeger pellet grills review here.

#3 Camp Chef SmokePro DLX

Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill w/New PID Gen 2 Digital Controller - Bronze

Camp Chef’s offering provides grillers with 429 square inches of space in the main cooking area, with an additional 144 square inches available on the optional warming rack. This unit features a high-quality stainless steel construction inside and out, with a sturdy lid and handle. Its hopper capacity is 18 pounds, and the system is especially efficient when it comes to pellet consumption. The temperature can be set from 160 to 500 degrees, making it suitable for use as a dehydrator for jerky. An included temperature probe allows you to keep an eye on your progress while the food is cooking. We think this unit provides the best smoke flavor of any pellet grill on this list.

Two of the straight legs on the Camp Chef DLX are outfitted with large wheels, making this grill easy to move around the patio. A side shelf offers additional space for storage or prep. There’s an ash can included to help with cleanup, and the hopper features a removal function that allows you to change the pellets during cooking. Camp Chef offers a three-year warranty with every purchase.

Pros:

  • Great hardwood flavor
  • Makes deep smoke rings on brisket and pulled pork
  • Generous surface area
  • Easy to assemble

Cons:

  • Warming rack is awkwardly positioned when it’s in place
  • Difficult to remove pellets for storage
  • Burns through pellets quickly

Check Price on Amazon

Read our review of the best Camp Chef pellet grills.

#4 Z Grills ZPG-450A

Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker with PID V2.1 Controller, 450 Sq in Cook Area, Meat Probe, 8 in 1 BBQ Grill Outdoor Auto Temperature Control, Black

This unit offers 450 square inches of grilling space, a 15-pound capacity hopper, and a sawhorse chassis design. The cooking grates are composed of porcelain-coated cast iron, while the main body boasts a stainless steel construction.

Two of the legs on this model are equipped with all-terrain wheels with locking casters. The facing legs have nifty “feet” affixed to the ends, which gives the grill extra stability. A foldable shelf offers extra storage space, but it’s too small to hold anything larger than a pair of tongs. The shelf also sits too close to the chimney to be used for prep space.

The ZPG-450A has a temperature range of 180 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s sufficient for grilling and roasting, but it won’t allow you to get a good sear on grilled meats. The digital control panel boasts an LED temperature readout, which is easy to read in the dark. There’s a grease collector situated below the cooking surface, but we don’t think this component is particularly effective. If you’re looking for a model that’s easy to clean, the Traeger units earn higher marks. Finally, note that a three-year warranty is included when you purchase this grill.

Pros:

  • Very affordable
  • Stable design
  • Grill grates are easy to clean
  • Maintains accurate temperatures

Cons:

  • Poor grease management system
  • Ignition system can get finicky after a few months of use
  • Unreliable customer service department
  • Shelf is small and set too close to the chimney component

Check Price on Amazon

#5 Z Grills ZPG-550B

Z GRILLS ZPG-550B 2022 Upgrade Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker 8 in 1 BBQ Auto Temperature Control, Cooking Area, 550 sq in Black

Like the ZPG-450A, this grill is constructed of stainless steel with porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates. The cart-style model features a unique interlocking ring design with a lower storage shelf. It’s also slightly larger than its Z Grills counterpart, with 550 square inches of grilling space. The 20-pound hopper capacity is generous for a grill of this size.

This model offers a digital control panel and a range of 180 to 450 degrees. It’s usually accurate within 10 degrees of the preselected temperature, and convection heat distribution allows your ingredients to cook evenly. The main quibble we have is with the auger component. It tends to pull the pellets from the center of the hopper, which can lead to jam-ups if you aren’t paying attention. Also, the grease management system is just like the one on the ZPG-450A, meaning that it’s similarly inefficient when it comes to cleanup.

Pros:

  • Convenient design
  • Sturdy packaging
  • Easy to put together
  • Excellent smoke flavor
  • Can be used to bake pizza or flatbread

Cons:

  • Insufficient grease management system
  • Poor customer service
  • Pellet feed system requires supervision

Check Price on Amazon

#6 REC TEC RT-340

Rec Tec‘s offering is set at a higher price point than most of the models listed here, but it has enough good points to justify the cost. The RT-340 features a stainless steel cooking chamber, a cart-style design with two rollerblade-style wheels and lower storage shelf, and a 20-pound capacity hopper. The grilling grates are constructed of 304-grade stainless steel, as are the curved horn-style handles.

This is a portable unit, boasting 340 square inches of grilling space and built-in meat temperature probes. It’s even WiFi enabled, so you can control the temperature via your tablet or smartphone. Regarding the temperature: Rec Tec advertises a basic range of 200 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, which isn’t particularly generous. However, the RT-340 also offers a “LO” setting for maximum smoke flavor and a “FULL” setting that allows you to achieve a proper sear. A two-year warranty is included with the purchase of this model.

Pros:

  • Hopper can be used as a shelf
  • Impressive temperature range
  • Reliable customer support department
  • Maintains an accurate temperature throughout all cooking applications

Cons:

  • Relatively pricey for a budget grill
  • Lower shelf has vented holes that smaller items can escape through
  • Balance is a bit tricky

#7 PIT BOSS 700FB

Pit Boss 71700FB Pellet Grill, 700 Square Inches, Black

With 700 square inches of cooking space, this is one of the larger models on our list. It features a cart-style design with a lower shelf, porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grids, and a temperature range of 180 to 500 degrees. The cooking chamber is constructed of heavy-gauge steel, and the overall structure is bulky and solid. The only drawback? There are vented holes in the lower shelf that are large enough for small items to slip through. This might not be an issue if you’re using the shelf mainly for pellet storage, but it’s worthy of mention.

The oversized grilling surface makes the Pit Boss 700FB a good choice if you entertain often, or if you just enjoy grilling large quantities of food at once. There’s even a built-in flame broiler to give steaks that all-important char at the end of the cooking process.

Be aware that this model doesn’t perform as well when you use generic pellets, or any brand other than Pit Boss. Fortunately, their pellets are high-quality and provide a great smoke flavor. Pit Boss offers consumers a generous five-year warranty with the purchase of the 700FB.

Pros:

  • Smoke adjustment feature
  • Versatile unit
  • Large cooking surface

Cons:

  • No side shelf
  • Flimsy lower shelf
  • Requires Pit Boss pellets in order to function properly

Check Price on Amazon

Pit Boss related articles:

#8 Green Mountain Grill Davy Crockett

The Davy Crockett grill from Green Mountain is portable, versatile, and high-tech. With a cooking surface that spans 219 square inches and a 9-pound capacity hopper, it’s small enough to fit easily into the trunk or backseat of your car. It weighs in at just 57 pounds, and the foldable legs can be used as handles. That makes the Davy Crockett the ideal choice for tailgating or picnics on the beach. The main body and cooking grids are all composed of 13-gauge steel.

This unit is WiFi enabled, which allows you to control the temperature even from a distance. The “Sense-Mate” thermal sensor provides you with accurate readouts throughout the grilling process. It boasts an impressive temperature range of 150 to 550 degrees, making it suitable for a number of cooking techniques. An all-weather cover is included in the purchase price, along with a two-year limited warranty.

Pros:

  • Portable unit
  • Very affordable
  • All-weather cover included with purchase
  • WiFi capability

Cons:

  • Construction is a bit on the flimsy side
  • Some shipping issues reported
  • Erratic temperature control

#9 Louisiana LG700

Louisiana Grills 60700-LG700 LG 700 Pellet Grill, 707 Square Inch

The LG700 is equipped with 707 square inches of cooking space in total, including a porcelain-coated steel upper cooking grid. The main cooking surface is made of porcelain-enameled cast iron, while the main body features a heavy-duty steel construction. The cart-style design features four wheels for maneuverability and a lower shelf for storage.

With a temperature range of 170 to 600 degrees, this grill can be used for just about anything. There’s even a built-in flame broiler for searing. The digital control panel comes outfitted with a programmable meat probe interface. While the company advertises precise temperature control, we’ve found that the control panel can be somewhat erratic. Also, the 14-pound capacity hopper is too small for a grill with this much cooking space.

Louisiana Grills offers consumers a five-year warranty with this product.

Pros:

  • Generously sized
  • Excellent temperature range
  • Built-in flame broiler
  • Exceptional versatility

Cons:

  • Relatively expensive for a budget option
  • Small drip bucket
  • Some minor components can be damaged in transit
  • Small hopper

Check Price on Amazon

Best Budget Pellet Grills: The Verdict

Do any of these cheap pellet grills stand out above the rest? While it’s a close call, we would award the prize to the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX, especially if you enjoy intense smoke flavor. Assembly is simple, the digital control panel is user-friendly, and the temperature remains accurate throughout the smoking process. If you want to heat the grill to higher temps, a sear box option is available for an additional price.

You don’t have to drain your bank account to invest in a high-quality pellet grill. If you follow our advice and choose the grill that best suits your needs, your new appliance should serve you well for years to come.

Darren Wayland Avatar

AUTHOR

Leave a Comment