Top 5 Best Pellet Smokers Under $500: Affordable BBQ Bliss

By Avi Green October 08, 2023

Are you a barbecue enthusiast looking to elevate your grilling game without breaking the bank? You've come to the right place! This listicle rounds up the best pellet smokers under $500 to help you make an informed choice without compromising on quality. Well delve into the key features, benefits, and unique selling points of each product, while keeping you engaged and itching to fire up that smoker. Ready to find your perfect match? Let's dive in!

The Best Pellet Smokers Under $500: Our Top Picks

1. Z GRILLS ZPG-450A 2022 Upgrade Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker

The Z GRILLS ZPG-450A is a versatile and reliable option for any barbecue enthusiast. With its sleek design and robust features, this smoker promises a fantastic grilling experience.

Key Features:

Temperature range of 180F to 450F
450 square inches of cooking space
Automatic electric feed system

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Easy to use, versatile cooking options, precise temperature control
Cons: Smaller cooking area compared to larger models

Price Range: $450-$500

2. Traeger Grills Tailgater 20 Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker

The Traeger Grills Tailgater 20 is perfect for those who love grilling on the go. Its compact size and portability make it a favorite among tailgaters and campers alike.

Key Features:

300 square inches of cooking space
Digital Arc controller for precise temperature control
Compact and portable design

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Portable, easy to use, consistent temperature control
Cons: Limited cooking space for large gatherings

Price Range: $400-$450

3. Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill

The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX is renowned for its advanced features and user-friendly design. It's an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned grillers.

Key Features:

570 square inches of total cooking space
Digital temperature control and an automatic auger system
Patented Ash Cleanout System for easy cleanup

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Large cooking area, easy cleanup, precise temperature control
Cons: Slightly higher price point within the budget

Price Range: $480-$500

4. PIT BOSS PB440D2 Wood Pellet Grill

The PIT BOSS PB440D2 offers fantastic value for money, with ample cooking space and robust build quality. It's a solid choice for those who want a reliable pellet smoker without spending a fortune.

Key Features:

518 square inches of cooking space
Digital control board with LED readout
Porcelain-coated cooking grates

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Large cooking area, durable build, easy to clean
Cons: Can be slightly heavy to move around

Price Range: $450-$500

5. Green Mountain Davy Crockett Sense Mate WiFi Control Portable Wood Pellet Grill

The Green Mountain Davy Crockett is a feature-packed portable pellet grill that includes WiFi capabilities, making it a top pick for tech-savvy grillers.

Key Features:

219 square inches of cooking space
WiFi controller with mobile app
Foldable legs for portability

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Highly portable, WiFi control, easy to set up
Cons: Smaller cooking area

Price Range: $300-$350

Conclusion

Choosing the best pellet smoker under $500 doesn't have to be daunting. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned pitmaster, there is a smoker on this list to suit your needs and budget. From the portable Traeger Grills Tailgater 20 to the feature-rich Camp Chef SmokePro DLX, you're sure to find the perfect match. These smokers offer a great balance of price, quality, and features that promise to elevate your barbecue game.