Looking Beyond the Blaze 26-Inch Freestanding Propane Outdoor? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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If you are researching blaze 26 inch freestanding propane outdoor alternatives, you likely appreciate the Blaze 26-Inch Propane Pizza Oven’s focused design. This unit combines a 17-inch rotating ceramic stone with a rotisserie rod and digital temperature control. It reaches high heat for pizza while offering precise monitoring via connected meat probes. The freestanding cart adds mobility, and the stainless steel construction ensures durability.
You might seek different options if you need more cooking space, a different fuel source, or a vertical smoker configuration. The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original product’s core functions. This list includes 6 choices that vary in size, fuel type, and connectivity features. Each option targets specific cooking needs, from large batch smoking to compact pellet grilling. Review the specs to find the best fit for your outdoor kitchen.
How these alternatives compare to Blaze
Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill
The Pit Boss 700 FB2 uses wood pellets instead of propane, which changes your fuel logistics and flavor profile entirely. It offers a 700-square-inch cooking surface, significantly larger than the Blaze’s specialized pizza stone area. This grill includes an offset smoker and digital controller for precise heat management. You gain versatility for smoking and searing, but you lose the dedicated high-heat pizza capability and the included mobile cart. If you want a general-purpose grill with smoking abilities rather than a dedicated pizza station, this pellet option provides a broader cooking range. The 119-pound weight suggests a more permanent setup compared to the Blaze’s portable design.
Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker
The Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker is a wood-fired unit designed for large capacity vertical smoking. It features Wi-Fi connectivity and a digital controller, offering remote monitoring that the Blaze does not list. This smoker is taller and narrower, fitting into different outdoor spaces than the wide, freestanding Blaze oven. You gain substantial cooking volume for briskets and large cuts, but you sacrifice the ability to bake pizza or use a rotisserie. The vertical design requires stable, tall spaces. This option suits users who prioritize automated temperature control and large batch smoking over the high-heat versatility and pizza-specific features of the Blaze unit.
Pit Boss 850 Navigator Pellet Grill
The Pit Boss 850 Navigator Pellet Grill provides 850 square inches of cooking space, far exceeding the Blaze’s focused pizza area. It runs on wood pellets and includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for digital monitoring. This grill is heavier at 175 pounds, indicating a more stationary installation than the Blaze’s cart-based mobility. You get extensive room for smoking large batches of meat and a pellet-driven smoky flavor. However, you give up the direct-flame pizza stone and rotisserie features. This alternative is best for serious backyard cooks who value automated temperature control and remote monitoring over the specialized, high-heat cooking capabilities of the Blaze pizza oven.
BLATOMIC 30" Electric Vertical Smoker
The BLATOMIC 30 Electric Vertical Smoker uses electric power, removing the need for gas or wood pellets. It features a digital controller and meat probe for stable smoking temperatures. This unit is compact and vertical, differing greatly from the wide, horizontal Blaze oven. You gain easy temperature management and consistent smoke without fuel refills, but you lose the ability to reach the high searing temperatures needed for pizza crusts. The electric design prioritizes stability over the Blaze’s versatility. This smoker fits users who want a dedicated, low-maintenance smoking solution with digital precision, rather than a multi-purpose outdoor cooking station capable of roasting and baking.
Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series 543 Sq. In.
The Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series is a compact wood pellet grill with 543 square inches of cooking space. It uses an offset smoker design and digital controller for automated temperature regulation. This unit lacks Wi-Fi connectivity, which distinguishes it from larger Pit Boss models. You get a reliable wood-fired flavor in a smaller footprint, but you cannot bake pizza on a rotating stone or use a rotisserie. The 89-pound weight makes it lighter than some competitors but still less mobile than the Blaze’s cart. This option suits buyers who want automated pellet grilling and smoking without the need for large capacity or remote digital monitoring.
Z Grills 7002C Wood Pellet Grill
The Z Grills 7002C Wood Pellet Grill offers about 700 square inches of cooking area with a PID controller for precise temperature management. It includes a meat probe and rain cover, adding practical outdoor durability. This grill runs on wood pellets, providing smoky flavor unlike the propane Blaze. You gain a larger, flat cooking surface for various grilling tasks, but you lose the specialized 17-inch rotating ceramic stone and rotisserie rod. The 113-pound weight and built-in design suggest a more fixed installation. This alternative is ideal for those who value digital precision and wood-fired flavor over the dedicated high-heat pizza baking and rotisserie capabilities of the Blaze unit.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Blaze 26-Inch Propane Pizza Oven Best overall | Dedicated outdoor pizza and rotisserie cooking | |
| 2 | Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill Also great | Precise digital temperature control and searing | |
| 3 | Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker Best budget | Large capacity vertical smoking with digital control | |
| 4 | Pit Boss 850 Navigator Pellet Grill Best premium | large batch smoking with digital monitoring | |
| 5 | BLATOMIC 30" Electric Vertical Smoker Best electric | users seeking stable electric smoking | |
| 6 | Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series 543 Sq. In. Also great | compact wood-fired cooking with digital control | |
| 7 | Z Grills 7002C Wood Pellet Grill Best about 700 sq in | consistent temperature control and smoky flavor |
Blaze 26-Inch Propane Pizza Oven
Best for: Dedicated outdoor pizza and rotisserie cooking
- Temperature Range
- 270°F – 550°F
- Controller Type
- Digital display
- Cooking Racks
- Dual cooking racks
- Meat Probes
- Connected meat probes
- Fuel
- Propane
- Features
- Meat Probe, Cart, Digital Controller
This freestanding propane pizza oven features a 17-inch rotating ceramic stone and tubular burners. It reaches 700°F on the stone, with a cooking range from 270°F to 550°F. An integrated digital controller and connected meat probes help you monitor heat. The stainless steel unit includes a cart for mobility. It suits those who want restaurant-quality results and versatile cooking options beyond just pizza.
- 17-inch rotating ceramic pizza stone for even baking
- Digital controller with connected meat probes
- Freestanding design with included mobility cart
- Double-pane glass doors retain heat efficiently
- Limited to propane fuel, unlike pellet competitors
- Single stone size restricts large batch cooking
- Smaller capacity than full-sized grill alternatives
- You want precise temperature control for pizza
- You need a freestanding unit with a cart
- You prefer propane over pellet fuel sources
- You need a large grill for general cooking
- You prefer wood pellet fuel for flavor
- You want a portable unit for camping
Verdict: Blaze 26-Inch Propane Pizza Oven delivers focused performance for pizza enthusiasts who value precise heat and rotisserie features. It fits buyers who want a dedicated outdoor cooking station with a mobile cart.
Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill
Best for: Precise digital temperature control and searing
- Cooking Area
- 747 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 180°F to 500°F
- Controller Type
- LCD digital
- Cooking Racks
- 2 tiers
- Meat Probes
- 1 probe
- Hopper Capacity
- 21 lb
The Pit Boss 700 FB2 offers 747 square inches of cooking space across two tiers of porcelain-coated steel racks. Its digital controller lets you set temperatures in 5°F increments from 180°F to 500°F. You can reach higher heat for searing using the Flame Broiler Lever, which goes up to 1,000°F. The unit includes a 21 lb. pellet hopper and one meat probe. This grill suits those who want precise digital control and direct flame searing capabilities in a wood pellet system.
- 747 square inches of cooking area
- Digital controller with 5°F increment settings
- Flame Broiler Lever for direct flame searing up to 1,000°F
- 21 lb. pellet hopper capacity
- Includes one meat probe
- Heavier build at 119 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- Smaller cooking capacity than the 850 and 1100 series models
- Lower maximum temperature range than gas or charcoal options
- You want precise temperature control with digital increments
- You need direct flame searing capabilities
- You prefer wood pellet flavor with digital convenience
- You need a larger cooking surface than 747 square inches
- You prefer gas or charcoal fuel sources
- You want a lighter, more portable unit
Verdict: Pit Boss 700 FB2 Wood Pellet Grill fits buyers who value precise digital temperature control and direct flame searing in a wood pellet system. It is ideal for those who want a reliable, feature-rich grill for consistent smoking and grilling results.
Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker
Best for: Large capacity vertical smoking with digital control
- Cooking Area
- 1,320 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 100°F to 300°F
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Controller Type
- LCD
- Cooking Racks
- 6 racks
- Fuel
- Wood-Fired
This Pit Boss vertical smoker offers 1,320 square inches of cooking space across six adjustable racks. It uses a 1,650-watt heating element to maintain temperatures between 100°F and 300°F. You get Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring. The unit includes a meat probe and dual ports for precise temperature tracking. It is a solid option for smokers who want digital control and ample capacity.
- 1,320 square inches of total cooking surface
- Six adjustable racks for flexible loading
- 1,650-watt heating element for even heat
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Includes meat probe and dual ports
- Heavier build at 74.6 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- Vertical footprint is 42 inches tall, requiring more vertical clearance
- Limited temperature range of 100°F to 300°F restricts high-heat searing
- You need large capacity for feeding a crowd
- You want digital monitoring via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
- You prefer vertical stacking for space efficiency
- You require high-temperature searing above 300°F
- You have limited vertical clearance for tall units
- You prefer a horizontal grill layout over a vertical smoker
Verdict: Pit Boss 4-Series 1320 sq in Vertical Smoker fits users who prioritize large capacity and digital connectivity over high-heat versatility. Its vertical design and substantial weight suit those with stable, tall spaces.
Pit Boss 850 Navigator Pellet Grill
Best for: large batch smoking with digital monitoring
- Cooking Area
- 932 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 180° to 500°F
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Controller Type
- LCD digital
- Hopper Capacity
- 30 lb
- Fuel
- Wood Pellet
The Pit Boss 850 Navigator is a wood pellet grill and smoker with 932 square inches of total cooking surface. It uses a Flame Broiler system and maintains temperatures from 180° to 500°F. You get WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring, along with two included meat probes. The unit weighs 175 pounds and features a 30 lb hopper with a viewing window. This model suits you if you want large capacity and digital control for backyard smoking.
- 932 square inches of total cooking surface area
- WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring
- Includes two meat probes for temperature tracking
- 30 lb hopper with built-in viewing window
- Temperature range from 180° to 500°F
- Weighs 175 pounds, making it heavy to move
- Uses wood pellets instead of propane or charcoal
- Folding shelves reduce prep space when collapsed
- You need a large cooking area for big gatherings
- You want remote temperature monitoring via your phone
- You prefer the flavor of hardwood pellets
- You have limited space for a 58.7-inch wide unit
- You want to use propane or charcoal fuel
- You need a lightweight grill for easy transport
Verdict: Pit Boss 850 Navigator WiFi Pellet Grill offers substantial cooking space and digital connectivity for serious backyard cooks. It fits you if you prioritize pellet flavor and remote monitoring over portability.
BLATOMIC 30" Electric Vertical Smoker
Best for: users seeking stable electric smoking
- Cooking Area
- 735 sq in
- Temperature Range
- Up to 320°F
- Cooking Racks
- 4 racks
- Meat Probes
- 1 probe
- Fuel
- Electric
- Smoker Style
- Vertical
This is a 30-inch electric vertical smoker with 735 square inches of cooking space. It uses a 1500W heating element that reaches 320°F. The unit includes a double-pane thermal window and a built-in meat probe. It sits on an elevated stand with wheels. You get four adjustable chrome racks. This model suits you if you want stable heat and easy monitoring without using wood or propane.
- 1500W heating element for faster cooking
- 735 square inch cooking capacity
- Double-pane insulated glass window
- Built-in digital meat probe
- Elevated stand with smooth-rolling wheels
- 79.4 pound weight makes it heavy to move
- 15.5 inch length limits placement in tight spots
- 320°F max temperature is lower than high-heat grills
- You want a vertical smoker that does not require fuel delivery
- You need an ergonomic height to reduce bending while cooking
- You value stable internal temperatures in varying weather conditions
- You prefer the flavor profile of wood pellets or charcoal
- You need a unit larger than 735 square inches
- You require temperatures above 320°F for searing
Verdict: BLATOMIC 30" Electric Vertical Smoker delivers consistent smoke and easy monitoring for users who prefer electric power. It fits you well if you prioritize stable heat and ergonomic design over high-heat searing capabilities.
Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series 543 Sq. In.
Best for: compact wood-fired cooking with digital control
- Cooking Area
- 543.3 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 180°F to 500°F
- Controller Type
- LCD
- Hopper Capacity
- 13.5 lb
- Fuel
- Wood Pellet
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Meat Probe, Digital Controller
The Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series is a wood pellet grill offering 543 square inches of cooking space. It features a digital controller with a meat probe and operates between 180°F and 500°F. The 13.5 lb hopper supports long cooks, while porcelain-coated steel grates aid in even heating. This unit weighs 89 pounds and measures 40.8 inches in length. It suits you if you want wood-fired flavor with automated temperature control.
- 543 square inches of total cooking surface area
- Digital controller with included meat probe
- 180°F to 500°F temperature range
- 13.5 lb hopper for extended capacity
- Porcelain-coated steel cooking grates
- 543 square inches is smaller than the 697 square inches on the Z GRILLS model
- 89 pounds is heavier than the typical 70-80 pound range for similar grills
- Lacks WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity found on other Pit Boss models
- You want wood-fired flavor without manual fire management
- You need a compact footprint for smaller patios
- You prefer automated temperature control with a digital display
- You require WiFi or Bluetooth remote monitoring
- You need more than 543 square inches of cooking space
- You prefer gas or charcoal fuel sources over wood pellets
Verdict: Pit Boss 500 Carbon Pellet Grill delivers reliable wood-fired cooking with a compact 543 square inch footprint. It fits you if you value automated temperature control and do not need WiFi connectivity or larger cooking capacity.
Z Grills 7002C Wood Pellet Grill
Best for: consistent temperature control and smoky flavor
- Cooking Area
- 697 sq in
- Controller Type
- LCD
- Meat Probes
- 2 probes
- Hopper Capacity
- 28 lbs
- Fuel
- Wood Pellet
- Features
- Lid, Meat Probe, Digital Controller, PID Controller, Rain Cover
This Z Grills 7002C is a 26-inch freestanding wood pellet grill with 697 square inches of cooking space. It uses a PID 3.0 controller for steady heat and includes two meat probes. The 28-pound hopper and view window reduce refills. It weighs 113 pounds and measures 51 inches tall. You get a durable steel build with mobile casters. It suits those who want consistent smoking without constant monitoring.
- PID 3.0 controller maintains temperature consistency
- 697 square inches of cooking area
- 28-pound pellet hopper for longer cook times
- Built-in LCD screen with two meat probes
- View window for monitoring pellets without lifting the lid
- 697 square inches is smaller than the 700 sq in badge suggests for some competitors
- 113 pounds is heavier than many compact alternatives
- Wood pellet fuel requires specific storage and supply
- You want precise temperature control with a digital PID controller
- You need a large cooking area for parties or tailgating
- You prefer the smoky flavor profile of wood pellets
- You are looking for a propane or gas grill
- You need a lightweight unit for easy transport
- You want a grill with Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring
Verdict: Z Grills 7002C 26-Inch Pellet Grill delivers steady heat and ample space for outdoor cooking. It fits you well if you value digital precision and wood-fired flavor over portability or gas convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Blaze 26-Inch Propane Pizza Oven | Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill | Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker | Pit Boss 850 Navigator Pellet Grill | BLATOMIC 30" Electric Vertical Smoker | Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series 543 Sq. In. | Z Grills 7002C Wood Pellet Grill |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | – | 747 sq in | 1,320 sq in | 932 sq in | 735 sq in | 543.3 sq in | 697 sq in |
| Temperature Range | 270°F – 550°F | 180°F to 500°F | 100°F to 300°F | 180° to 500°F | Up to 320°F | 180°F to 500°F | – |
| Connectivity | – | – | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | – | – | – |
| Controller Type | Digital display | LCD digital | LCD | LCD digital | – | LCD | LCD |
| Cooking Racks | Dual cooking racks | 2 tiers | 6 racks | – | 4 racks | – | – |
| Meat Probes | Connected meat probes | 1 probe | – | – | 1 probe | – | 2 probes |
| Hopper Capacity | – | 21 lb | – | 30 lb | – | 13.5 lb | 28 lbs |
| Fuel | Propane | Wood Pellet | Wood-Fired | Wood Pellet | Electric | Wood Pellet | Wood Pellet |
| Smoker Style | – | – | Vertical | – | Vertical | – | – |
| Features | Meat Probe, Cart, Digital Controller | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe, Digital Controller | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe, Wi-Fi, Digital Controller | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe, Wi-Fi, Digital Controller | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe, Digital Controller | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe, Digital Controller | Lid, Meat Probe, Digital Controller, PID Controller, Rain Cover |
| Grill Type | – | – | – | – | – | – | Built-In |
| Use | Pizza Oven | Grilling, Smoker | Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling |
| Color | Stainless Steel | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Bronze |
| Material | Ceramic | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 29 × 27.8 × 55.6 inches | 26.8 × 43.7 × 47 inches | 19.8 × 23.2 × 47 inches | 34 × 58.7 × 46.6 inches | 15.5 × 17.1 × 41.7 inches | 40.8 × 26.9 × 43.8 inches | 48 × 26 × 51 inches |
| Weight | – | 119 pounds | 74.6 pounds | 175 pounds | 79.4 pounds | 89 pounds | 113 pounds |
| Size | 6.3 cu. ft. | 700FB2 | 42 Inch | 850 Sq. In. | MAX | 500 Sq. In. | 700 sq inch Cooking Area |
| Model | BLZ-26-PZOVN-LP + BLZ-26-PZOVN-CART | 11087 | 11085 | 11111 | BESFP30S2 | 11138 | ZPG-7002C |
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the largest cooking area?
The Pit Boss 850 Navigator Pellet Grill provides the most space with 850 square inches of cooking surface. It measures 58.7 inches wide and 46.6 inches tall. This substantial size suits large batch smoking. The unit weighs 175 pounds and includes Wi-Fi for remote monitoring. It fits users who prioritize capacity over portability.
Are there electric options for vertical smoking?
Yes, the BLATOMIC 30" Electric Vertical Smoker uses electric power for stable heat. It features a digital controller and meat probe for easy monitoring. The unit is 41.7 inches tall and weighs 79.4 pounds. It includes an offset smoker design. This option suits users who prefer electric convenience over high-heat searing capabilities.
Which grill includes Wi-Fi connectivity?
The Pit Boss 850 Navigator Pellet Grill includes Wi-Fi connectivity. It also features Bluetooth connectivity for digital monitoring. The Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth features. These models allow you to track temperatures remotely. This connectivity supports consistent results during long smoking sessions.
What is the smallest footprint available?
The Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker has a compact footprint measuring 23.2 inches wide and 19.8 inches long. It stands 47 inches tall and weighs 74.6 pounds. This vertical design fits stable, tall spaces. It offers 42 inches of cooking space despite its narrow base. The unit uses wood-fired fuel.
Do these alternatives use wood pellets?
Several alternatives use wood pellets for flavor. The Pit Boss 700 FB2, Pit Boss 850 Navigator, and Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series all use wood pellets. The Z Grills 7002C also uses wood pellets. These fuels provide smoky flavor. They differ from the propane fuel used by the Blaze pizza oven.
Which model is best for beginners?
The Pit Boss 4-Series Vertical Smoker is a strong budget choice. It features digital control and Wi-Fi connectivity for easier management. The unit weighs 74.6 pounds and offers large capacity. Its vertical design simplifies the smoking process. This model suits users who prioritize capacity and digital control over high-heat versatility.
See also
Prices and specifications on this page are read from the Amazon product listing and can change at any time. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback. Nobody at this site handled or measured these products.
