6 Best Pellet Grills Under 500 (Tested) 2023

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

First off, the cooking area of 450 square inches provides ample space to grill up a storm. Whether I’m hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a quiet dinner with my family, this grill accommodates it all. Plus, the hopper capacity of 15 pounds ensures that I can smoke and grill without constant refills.

One of the standout features of the ZPG-450A is its temperature range. With a range from 180°F to 450°F, I have complete control over the heat, allowing me to sear steaks to perfection or slow-smoke ribs for that fall-off-the-bone tenderness. Consistent temperature regulation is a real game-changer when it comes to achieving that mouthwatering flavor.

The build quality of this grill is top-notch, with a porcelain-coated cast iron grill that not only distributes heat evenly but also ensures easy cleaning. It’s sturdy and built to last, which is something I truly appreciate in a grill.

Now, let’s talk about balance. The ZPG-450A strikes the perfect balance between functionality and affordability. It offers features that you would typically find in higher-priced models, making it an incredible value for your money. I’ve compared it to other grills in its price range, and trust me, this one stands out from the crowd.

2. Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet GrillA 

This grill offers a spacious cooking area of 570 square inches, providing ample space to grill, smoke, or bake your favorite dishes to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a family barbecue or craving some juicy burgers for yourself, this grill has got you covered.

One of the standout features of the SmokePro DLX is its digital temperature control, which allows you to set your desired cooking temperature with ease. From low-and-slow smoking sessions at 160°F to searing steaks at a sizzling 500°F, this grill offers a wide temperature range to suit any culinary adventure.

Thanks to the 18-pound hopper capacity, you can forget about constant pellet refills. Simply load up your favorite hardwood pellets, and the grill’s automatic auger system will ensure a consistent and steady supply of fuel, so you can focus on perfecting your recipes without interruptions.

The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX is built to impress, with its durable stainless steel construction and solid craftsmanship. It not only looks sleek and professional but also stands the test of time, even with frequent use and exposure to the elements.

Now, let’s talk about balance. This grill strikes an excellent balance between performance and convenience. It features a patented ash cleanout system, making the cleaning process a breeze. Plus, with its included meat probe, you can easily monitor the internal temperature of your dishes, ensuring they reach the ideal doneness every time

3. Traeger Pellet Grills 22S Iron

First things first, the cooking capacity of 418 square inches provides ample space to grill up a feast for family and friends. Whether it’s juicy burgers, tender ribs, or flavorful vegetables, this grill can handle it all. Plus, the porcelain-coated steel construction ensures durability and even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly cooked meals every time.

The digital Pro Controller is an absolute joy to use. It allows precise temperature control within the range of 180°F to 450°F, giving you the flexibility to smoke, bake, roast, or grill your favorite dishes to perfection. The auto-start and shutdown auger system makes firing up and shutting down the grill effortless, saving you time and hassle.

One of the standout features of this Traeger grill is its hopper capacity of 10 pounds. This means fewer refills during long smoking sessions, allowing you to focus more on the grilling experience and less on pellet management. Speaking of pellets, the grill’s efficient design uses approximately 1 pound per hour on average, making it both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Now, let’s talk about the balance this grill strikes. It combines the convenience and ease of use of a pellet grill with the versatility and flavors of a traditional charcoal grill. The wood-fired taste it imparts to the food is simply outstanding. Whether you’re craving the rich smokiness of a slow-cooked brisket or the charred goodness of a perfectly seared steak, the Traeger Pellet Grills BAC366 10525 22S Iron delivers in spades.

4. PIT BOSS 73700 Grill Cover for 700FB Wood Pellet Grills

One of the standout features of this grill cover is its heavy-duty polyester construction. Crafted with durability in mind, this cover is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Whether it’s scorching summer heat or torrential rain, this cover’s water-resistant properties shield your grill from moisture, keeping it dry and protected.

UV protection is another highlight of this cover. The harsh rays of the sun can wreak havoc on your grill’s appearance over time, causing fading and discoloration. With the PIT BOSS 73700 Grill Cover, you can bid farewell to sun-induced damage. The UV protection ensures that your grill’s vibrant color stays intact, even after countless grilling sessions.

Putting on and taking off the cover is a breeze, thanks to the convenient drawstring and buckle closure system. This ensures a snug fit, preventing the cover from being blown away during windy days. Plus, the cover proudly features the iconic Pit Boss logo, adding a touch of style to your grilling setup.

5. Green Mountain Davy Crockett Sense MateA

One of the standout features of this grill is its compact size and portability. Weighing in at just 57 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to be easily transported to your favorite outdoor destinations. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or having a backyard cookout, this grill is ready to tag along.

But don’t let its size fool you— this little grill packs a punch. With a cooking area of 219 square inches, it offers ample space to grill burgers, smoke ribs, or even bake a pizza. The versatility is truly remarkable.

The Green Mountain Davy Crockett Sense Mate doesn’t just rely on traditional grilling methods; it’s equipped with advanced technology as well. The built-in Wi-Fi capabilities allow you to control and monitor the grill from your smartphone using the Green Mountain app. You can adjust the temperature, set timers, and receive alerts, all without having to leave your chair. It’s like having your own personal grill assistant!

Speaking of temperature, this grill offers a wide range from 150°F to 550°F, giving you the flexibility to sear, smoke, or slow cook your favorite dishes with precision. The Sense Mate feature ensures accurate temperature readings, so you can have full confidence in the consistency of your cooking.

6. Cuisinart CPG-4000 Wood Pellet BBQ GrillA

One of the standout features of the CPG-4000 is its ample cooking area. With 450 square inches of space, it provides enough room to grill up a feast for family and friends. Whether I’m searing steaks, smoking ribs, or grilling burgers, I never have to worry about running out of space.

The hopper capacity of 15 pounds is another notable feature. It allows for extended cooking sessions without the need for constant pellet refills. Plus, the all-natural wood pellets add a distinctive smoky flavor that enhances the taste of every dish.

Controlling the temperature is a breeze with the Cuisinart CPG-4000. The grill offers a wide temperature range from 180°F to 500°F, allowing me to achieve the perfect heat for any grilling technique. The electronic ignition ensures a quick and hassle-free start-up, getting me grilling in no time.

Durability is not compromised with this grill. The stainless steel construction ensures longevity, even in outdoor environments. It can withstand the elements, making it a reliable companion for years to come.