Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series Wood Pellet Grill Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series wood pellet grill delivers reliable hardwood flavor and straightforward digital control in a compact 543-square-inch footprint. You might look for pit boss 500 carbon series wood pellet grill alternatives if you need more cooking space, direct flame searing, or smart connectivity features. This list compares 6 similar picks that share core specifications with the original model.
Each alternative overlaps with the 500 Carbon Series in key areas like fuel type, control interface, and general use case. We selected these options based on spec comparisons rather than subjective preference. Some models offer larger grilling surfaces for bigger gatherings, while others provide integrated storage cabinets or Wi-Fi monitoring. You can choose a unit that matches your specific capacity needs or connectivity preferences without sacrificing the essential pellet cooking experience.
How Each Alternative Compares
Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill
The Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill offers a larger cooking footprint than the 500 Carbon Series, making it suitable for bigger gatherings. It weighs 119 pounds, which is 30 pounds heavier than the original, providing a more stable structure. This model retains the digital controller and meat probe you expect, ensuring precise temperature management. It also features an offset smoker design for traditional flavor. You should choose this if you need extra space for larger cuts of meat or more burgers without sacrificing the brand’s core pellet technology. The increased weight and size mean it requires more outdoor room, but the robust build supports longer, heavier cooks.
Pit Boss 850 Navigator Pellet Grill
The Pit Boss 850 Navigator Pellet Grill significantly expands your cooking capacity to 850 square inches, compared to the 543 square inches of the 500 Carbon Series. It adds Wi-Fi connectivity and Bluetooth, allowing you to monitor temperatures remotely via an app. Weighing 175 pounds, it is nearly double the weight of the original, reflecting its larger steel construction. The digital controller remains a key feature, but the smart capabilities offer greater convenience for long smoke sessions. This grill is ideal if you host large groups regularly or want to manage cooking from inside the house. The trade-off is the substantial footprint and weight, which require a permanent, sturdy outdoor location.
VEVOR 456 Sq In Wood Pellet Grill
The VEVOR 456 Sq In Wood Pellet Grill is a compact alternative that weighs only 71.2 pounds, making it much lighter and more portable than the 89-pound Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series. It offers 456 square inches of cooking space, which is slightly smaller than the original, making it better for small households. It includes a digital controller and meat probe, maintaining essential monitoring features. The square shape and smaller dimensions fit well in tighter patios or balconies. You should pick this if you prioritize ease of movement and a lower profile over maximum capacity. It sacrifices some cooking surface area for a lighter, more manageable design that is easier to relocate if needed.
Traeger Woodridge Pro 970 Sq In
The Traeger Woodridge Pro 970 Sq In is a heavy-duty option weighing 174 pounds, significantly heavier than the 89-pound Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series. It provides an extra-large cooking area, ideal for large gatherings, and features Wi-Fi app control for remote monitoring. The digital controller ensures precise heat management, similar to the original but with added smart connectivity. Its 67-inch width demands a large outdoor space, unlike the compact original. This grill suits those who prioritize capacity and technology over portability. You gain substantial cooking room and advanced features, but you lose the ability to easily move the unit. It is best for dedicated outdoor kitchens where space is not a constraint.
Z Grills 600D2 572 Sq In Cabinet Grill
The Z Grills 600D2 572 Sq In Cabinet Grill offers 572 square inches of cooking space, slightly more than the Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series. It includes a dedicated storage cabinet, a feature absent in the original, which helps organize tools and accessories. Weighing 103 pounds, it is heavier than the original but offers better stability. The PID controller provides consistent temperature regulation, similar to the digital controller on the Pit Boss. It also features a meat probe for internal temperature monitoring. This grill is ideal if you value organized storage and consistent heat management. You gain extra space and utility, but the unit is larger and heavier, requiring more permanent outdoor placement and less flexibility for moving.
Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill
The Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill is a compact unit weighing 70.5 pounds, lighter than the 89-pound Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series. It offers 456 square inches of cooking space, which is smaller than the original, making it suitable for limited outdoor areas. It features Wi-Fi connectivity and a PID controller for precise temperature management, adding smart capabilities the original lacks. The meat probe is included for monitoring internal temperatures. This grill is best for buyers with small patios or balconies who want modern features without a large footprint. You sacrifice cooking capacity for portability and smart control. The lighter weight and smaller dimensions make it easier to handle, though it is less suitable for large family meals.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series 543 Sq. In. Best overall | small gatherings and basic smoking | |
| 2 | Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill Also great | Direct flame searing and large capacity | |
| 3 | Pit Boss 850 Navigator Pellet Grill Best premium | large capacity cooking with digital control | |
| 4 | VEVOR 456 Sq In Wood Pellet Grill Best budget | Small households seeking durable basic pellet cooking | |
| 5 | Traeger Woodridge Pro 970 Sq In Best extra large | large gatherings needing app-controlled smoking | |
| 6 | Z Grills 600D2 572 Sq In Cabinet Grill Best storage cabinet | organized outdoor cooking with ample storage | |
| 7 | Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill Best under 500 sq in | compact cooking spaces under 500 sq in |
Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series 543 Sq. In.
Best for: small gatherings and basic smoking
- 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 offers 543 square inches of porcelain-coated steel cooking space. It features an LCD digital controller with a 180° to 500°F range. The 13.5 lb hopper supports day-long cooks. An included meat probe allows for precise internal temperature monitoring. This grill suits you if you want reliable hardwood flavor and straightforward digital control for smoking and grilling.
- 543 square inches of total cooking surface
- 13.5 lb pellet hopper for extended capacity
- 180°F to 500°F temperature range
- Includes digital controller and meat probe
- Porcelain-coated steel grates for even heat
- 543 square inches is smaller than the 700 and 850 square inch alternatives
- 89 pounds weight is heavier than lighter portable options
- No WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity compared to other models
- You want a compact pellet grill for small gatherings
- You prefer digital temperature control without smart features
- You need a dedicated smoker for low-and-slow cooking
- You require WiFi connectivity for remote monitoring
- You need cooking space larger than 543 square inches
- You prefer a lighter grill for easy transport
Verdict: Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series Pellet Grill is a solid choice for cooks who value straightforward digital control and reliable hardwood flavor in a compact footprint. It fits you best if you prioritize essential features over smart connectivity.
Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill
Best for: Direct flame searing and large capacity
- 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 with a digital controller and Flame Broiler. It reaches 500°F for grilling and 1,000°F for searing. The 21 lb hopper supports long cooks. At 119 pounds, it is a sturdy option for those wanting direct flame access and reliable temperature control.
- 747 square inches of cooking space
- Flame Broiler sears up to 1,000°F
- 21 lb pellet hopper capacity
- Digital controller with 5°F increments
- Heavier at 119 pounds than some competitors
- Smaller cooking area than 850+ sq in models
- Limited to 500°F max indirect cooking temperature
- You want direct flame searing capabilities
- You need a large 21 lb pellet hopper
- You prefer a sturdy, heavy-duty build
- You require WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity
- You need more than 747 square inches
- You prefer a lighter, portable grill
Verdict: Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill fits users who prioritize direct flame searing and a large pellet hopper over smart connectivity. It is a solid choice for traditionalists who value robust construction and precise temperature control.
Pit Boss 850 Navigator Pellet Grill
Best for: large capacity cooking with digital control
- 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
This Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series pellet grill offers 932 square inches of total cooking surface. It connects via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for remote monitoring. The unit includes two meat probes and maintains temperatures from 180 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. A 30-pound hopper with a viewing window tracks fuel levels. It weighs 175 pounds and measures 58.7 inches wide. This model suits those needing large capacity and digital control.
- 932 square inches of total cooking surface area
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring
- Includes two meat probes for temperature tracking
- 30-pound hopper with built-in viewing window
- Temperature range from 180 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
- 175 pounds weight makes it heavier than many competitors
- 58.7 inches width requires more outdoor space than smaller models
- You need ample cooking space for large gatherings
- You want remote monitoring via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- You prefer precise temperature control with meat probes
- You have limited outdoor space for a wide unit
- You prefer a lighter grill for easy mobility
- You do not need digital connectivity features
Verdict: Pit Boss 850 Navigator WiFi Pellet Grill delivers substantial cooking capacity and modern connectivity. It fits buyers who prioritize large surface area and remote temperature monitoring over compact size.
VEVOR 456 Sq In Wood Pellet Grill
Best for: Small households seeking durable basic pellet cooking
- Cooking Area
- 456 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 160°F-500°F
- Controller Type
- Digital
- Cooking Racks
- Dual-layer
- Meat Probes
- 1 probe
- Hopper Capacity
- 12 lb
This VEVOR pellet grill offers 456 square inches of cooking space in a compact 456 sq.in&Digital configuration. It features a digital controller for precise temperature management between 160°F and 500°F. The heavy-duty carbon steel construction includes a meat probe port and a 12-pound hopper for extended cooking sessions. It suits you if you need a reliable, entry-level smoker for small gatherings or limited patio space.
- Digital controller for precise temperature settings
- Heavy-duty carbon steel with rust-resistant coating
- Includes meat probe port for monitoring
- 12-pound hopper supports 12 hours of cooking
- 456 square inch capacity is smaller than most alternatives
- 71.2 pound weight adds bulk for storage
- Standard digital display lacks WiFi connectivity
- You need a compact grill for small patios
- You want a durable steel build for frequent use
- You prefer simple digital temperature controls
- You require WiFi remote monitoring capabilities
- You need to cook large cuts for big groups
- You want a larger cooking surface area
Verdict: VEVOR 456 sq.in Wood Pellet Grill fits beginners seeking a sturdy, affordable entry into pellet cooking without complex tech. It is ideal for small households prioritizing build quality over smart features.
Traeger Woodridge Pro 970 Sq In
Best for: large gatherings needing app-controlled smoking
- Cooking Area
- 970 sq. in.
- Temperature Range
- Up to 500°F
- Fuel
- Wood Pellet
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Wi-Fi, Digital Controller
- Use
- Grilling, Smoker
- Color
- Black
The Traeger Woodridge Pro offers 970 square inches of cooking space, making it a strong option for large gatherings. It features WiFIRE connectivity for remote monitoring via the app and a Super Smoke Mode for enhanced flavor. Weighing 174 pounds, this unit is substantial. Its extra-large capacity fits seven chickens or nine rib racks. You should choose this if you need serious volume and smart controls for wood-fired cooking.
- 970 square inches of cooking area
- WiFIRE connectivity with app support
- Super Smoke Mode for extra flavor
- Digital pellet sensor for monitoring
- Fits up to 7 chickens or 9 rib racks
- Weighs 174 pounds, making it heavy to move
- Dimensions are 67 inches wide, requiring significant footprint
- You need space for large cuts of meat like brisket or pork butts
- You want remote monitoring via the Traeger app
- You have room for a 67-inch wide unit
- You have limited patio space for a 67-inch wide grill
- You prefer a lighter, easier-to-move unit under 100 pounds
- You do not want to use a smartphone app for control
Verdict: Traeger Woodridge Pro 970 Sq In is a heavy, spacious unit best for those who prioritize large capacity and app-based control over portability. It suits backyard chefs hosting large groups who have the space to accommodate its 67-inch width.
Z Grills 600D2 572 Sq In Cabinet Grill
Best for: organized outdoor cooking with ample storage
- Cooking Area
- 572 sq. in.
- Temperature Range
- 180°F–450°F
- Meat Probes
- Meat probes
- Fuel
- Wood Pellet
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Storage Cabinet, Meat Probe, PID Controller
- Use
- Grilling, Smoker, Camping
The Z Grills 600D2 offers 572 square inches of cooking space and a PID V3.0 controller for precise temperature management. It features an 8-in-1 versatility range from 180°F to 450°F. The unit includes a large bottom storage cabinet and side shelf with tool hooks. Weighing 103 pounds, it provides ample room for families while maintaining a compact footprint for your patio.
- 572 sq. in. grilling area holds 24 burgers
- PID V3.0 controller ensures accurate temperature control
- Large bottom storage cabinet and side shelf
- 8-in-1 versatility for smoking, searing, and baking
- Auto-start ignition and intelligent temperature display
- 572 sq. in. capacity is smaller than the 970 sq. in. Traeger Woodridge Pro
- 103-pound weight is heavier than lighter portable alternatives
- Maximum temperature of 450°F is lower than high-heat searing options
- You need dedicated storage for grilling tools and pellets
- You want precise temperature control for smoking and baking
- You cook for a family of four to six people
- You require more than 572 square inches of cooking space
- You need WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring
- You prefer a lighter grill that is easier to move
Verdict: Z Grills 600D2 572 Sq In Pellet Grill suits those who prioritize organized storage and consistent heat over maximum capacity or smart features. It is a solid choice for family meals where tool access matters.
Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill
Best for: compact cooking spaces under 500 sq in
- Cooking Area
- 450 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 180°F to 500°F
- Controller Type
- PID controller
- Meat Probes
- 1 probe
- Hopper Capacity
- 12 lb
- Fuel
- Wood Pellet
The Brisk It Zelos-450 offers 450 square inches of cooking space, fitting comfortably under the 500 sq in threshold. It features a PID controller for precise temperature regulation between 180°F and 500°F. The unit includes WiFi connectivity and an app for remote management. Weighing 70.5 pounds, it provides a compact footprint for smaller outdoor areas. This grill suits users seeking automated cooking assistance and versatile wood-pellet flavor in a compact design.
- 450 square inches of cooking area
- PID controller for precise temperature control
- WiFi connectivity with app support
- 7-in-1 cooking versatility
- Includes waterproof grill cover
- Smaller 450 sq in cooking area compared to larger competitors
- Heavier 70.5 lb build than some lighter alternatives
- You need a compact grill under 500 sq in
- You want automated cooking management via AI
- You prefer wood-pellet flavor with precise heat control
- You require cooking space larger than 500 sq in
- You need Bluetooth connectivity instead of WiFi
- You prefer a lighter unit under 60 pounds
Verdict: Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill fits buyers who prioritize compact size and smart automation over maximum cooking capacity. It is a practical option for those with limited outdoor space who still want versatile wood-fired cooking.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series 543 Sq. In. | Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill | Pit Boss 850 Navigator Pellet Grill | VEVOR 456 Sq In Wood Pellet Grill | Traeger Woodridge Pro 970 Sq In | Z Grills 600D2 572 Sq In Cabinet Grill | Brisk It Zelos-450 Pellet Grill |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 543.3 sq in | 747 sq in | 932 sq in | 456 sq in | 970 sq. in. | 572 sq. in. | 450 sq in |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 500°F | 180°F to 500°F | 180° to 500°F | 160°F-500°F | Up to 500°F | 180°F–450°F | 180°F to 500°F |
| Connectivity | – | – | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | – | – | – | – |
| Controller Type | LCD | LCD digital | LCD digital | Digital | – | – | PID controller |
| Cooking Racks | – | 2 tiers | – | Dual-layer | – | – | – |
| Meat Probes | – | 1 probe | – | 1 probe | – | Meat probes | 1 probe |
| Hopper Capacity | 13.5 lb | 21 lb | 30 lb | 12 lb | – | – | 12 lb |
| Fuel | Wood Pellet | Wood Pellet | Wood Pellet | Wood Pellet | Wood Pellet | Wood Pellet | Wood Pellet |
| Features | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe, Digital Controller | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe, Digital Controller | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe, Wi-Fi, Digital Controller | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe, Digital Controller | Offset Smoker, Wi-Fi, Digital Controller | Offset Smoker, Storage Cabinet, Meat Probe, PID Controller | Offset Smoker, Lid, Meat Probe, Wi-Fi, PID Controller |
| Grill Type | – | – | – | – | – | Cabinet | – |
| Use | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker, Camping | Grilling, Smoker |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Size | 500 Sq. In. | 700FB2 | 850 Sq. In. | 456 sq.in&Digital | Extra Large | 572 Sq. | 46"W x 29.8'D x 38.8"H |
| Shape | – | – | – | Square | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 40.8 × 26.9 × 43.8 inches | 26.8 × 43.7 × 47 inches | 34 × 58.7 × 46.6 inches | 46 × 26 × 37 inches | 27 × 67 × 47 inches | 46 × 21 × 49 inches | 24 × 20 × 21 inches |
| Weight | 89 pounds | 119 pounds | 175 pounds | 71.2 pounds | 174 pounds | 103 pounds | 70.5 pounds |
| Model | 11138 | 11087 | 11111 | VA-456 | TFB97JLH | ZPG-600D2 | BGZ450 |
Frequently asked questions
Which pellet grill has the largest cooking area?
The Traeger Woodridge Pro offers the most space with a 970-square-inch capacity. It is classified as extra large and measures 67 inches in width. This makes it ideal for large gatherings. The Pit Boss 850 Navigator is the next largest option with 850 square inches. It is best for those needing substantial surface area for big meals.
Is there a compact pellet grill under 500 square inches?
Yes, the Brisk It Zelos-450 is designed for compact spaces. It features a cooking area under 500 square inches and weighs only 70.5 pounds. The VEVOR 456 sq.in Wood Pellet Grill is another small option. It is square-shaped and weighs 71.2 pounds. Both fit users with limited outdoor space who want versatile wood-fired cooking.
Which grill includes a storage cabinet?
The Z Grills 600D2 572 Sq In is built with a dedicated storage cabinet. It is categorized as a cabinet grill type. This design suits those who prioritize organized tool access during outdoor cooking. It offers 572 square inches of cooking space. Other models in this list do not mention integrated storage cabinets in their specifications.
Which models offer Wi-Fi or app connectivity?
The Pit Boss 850 Navigator includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The Traeger Woodridge Pro features app-based control for remote monitoring. The Brisk It Zelos-450 also provides Wi-Fi and app connectivity. These models allow you to track temperatures remotely. The Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series and others rely on digital controllers without smart connectivity features.
What is the lightest pellet grill on this list?
The Brisk It Zelos-450 is the lightest unit at 70.5 pounds. The VEVOR 456 sq.in model is very close at 71.2 pounds. Both are significantly lighter than the Pit Boss 500 Carbon Series, which weighs 89 pounds. The heavier models, like the Traeger Woodridge Pro, weigh 174 pounds. Choose a lighter unit if you need easier mobility.
Does the Pit Boss 700 FB2 allow direct flame searing?
Yes, the Pit Boss 700 FB2 is designed for direct flame searing. It offers a 700-square-inch cooking area and weighs 119 pounds. This model is ideal for users who value robust construction and precise temperature control. It includes an offset smoker and meat probe. It is a solid choice for traditionalists who prefer direct heat capabilities.
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.
