Pit Boss 700 FB2 Series Wood Pellet Grill vs Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker (2026): Key Differences
As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. This means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click through and make a purchase.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
When comparing the pit boss 700 fb2 series wood pellet grill vs 3 series gas vertical, you face a choice between two distinct smoking methods. Both units offer substantial cooking capacity and robust construction from Pit Boss. The main difference lies in their fuel source and heat control. The 700 FB2 uses wood pellets for flavor and precise digital temperature management, while the 3-Series relies on propane for quick heat and vertical stacking efficiency. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize flavor depth or convenience.
Fuel
Wood Pellet
Gas (Propane)
Smoker Style
Horizontal Grill/Smoker
Vertical Smoker
Cooking Area
747 sq. in.
880 sq. in.
Temperature Range
180°F to 500°F
100°F to 320°F
Weight
119 pounds
63 pounds
Choose the first if
- You want precise temperature control with digital settings and 5°F increments.
- You prefer the flavor profile of wood-burning heat for low-and-slow cooking.
- You need direct flame searing capabilities up to 1,000°F with the Flame Broiler.
Choose the second if
- You value a larger total cooking area with four stacked racks.
- You want a lighter unit that is easier to move around.
- You prefer the convenience of propane ignition and faster heat-up times.
Verdict
The 700 FB2 is the better choice if you prioritize flavor and precise temperature control for versatile grilling and smoking. The 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker suits you better if you need maximum vertical capacity and the convenience of propane fuel. Choose based on whether you value wood flavor or cooking space and ease of use.
Fuel Source and Cooking Style
Fuel Type
Edge: Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill
The Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill uses wood pellets as its primary fuel source. This method imparts a distinct smoky flavor to your food, making it ideal for traditional barbecue enthusiasts. In contrast, the Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker runs on propane gas. This fuel source offers immediate heat and consistent temperature control without the need to manage pellets. You choose between the authentic wood-fired taste of the pellet grill or the convenience and speed of gas heating for your smoking sessions.
Cooking Capacity
Edge: Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker
Capacity differs significantly between these two models. The Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill provides 747 square inches of cooking space, distributed across two tiers of porcelain-coated steel racks. This setup is suitable for large cuts of meat or multiple items. The Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker offers a larger total area of 880 square inches. It achieves this through four separate racks, each measuring 14.75 inches by 12.25 inches. If you frequently cook for large gatherings, the vertical smoker provides more surface area for your food.
Temperature Control
Edge: Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill
Temperature ranges vary between the two units. The Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill features a digital control board with 5°F increment settings, allowing you to reach temperatures from 180°F to 500°F. It also includes a Flame Broiler Lever for direct flame searing up to 1,000°F. The Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker operates between 100°F and 320°F. While the pellet grill offers higher heat for searing and precise digital adjustments, the gas smoker is designed for lower, steady smoking temperatures with a professional heat indicator.
Portability and Weight
Edge: Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker
Weight and mobility are key factors for outdoor cooking setups. The Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill is a heavy unit weighing 119 pounds, with dimensions of 43.7 inches in width and 26.8 inches in length. It includes a solid bottom shelf for storage but is not designed for easy movement. The Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker is much lighter at 63 pounds. It measures 23 inches wide and 22 inches long, and it includes two rear rolling wheels. This makes the gas smoker significantly easier to move and store when not in use.
Special Features
Edge: Tie
Each grill includes unique features for specific cooking needs. The Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill comes with a 21 lb. hopper capacity, two meat probe ports, and one included meat probe. It also offers a 5-year warranty. The Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker features a dual valve and dual burner system with 12,500 BTUs, piezo ignition, and a large viewing window. It includes external wood chip and ash removal capabilities plus a front-access grease drawer. The pellet grill focuses on precision probing and large pellet storage, while the gas smoker emphasizes easy ignition and maintenance.
Which Pit Boss model fits your needs?
You want high-heat searing and pellet flavor.
Our pick: Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill
The Pit Boss 700 FB2 reaches 1,000°F with its Flame Broiler for direct searing. Its digital controller offers precise 5°F increments from 180° to 500°. You get 747 square inches of space with two meat probe ports. The 21 lb hopper supports long cooks, and the 5-year warranty adds peace of mind.
You need high capacity and easy propane use.
Our pick: Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker
This smoker provides 880 square inches of cooking area across four racks. It runs on propane with a 12,500 BTU dual burner system and piezo ignition. The vertical design fits into smaller spaces, weighing only 63 pounds. You can monitor heat through the large viewing window with a professional indicator.
You prefer lightweight gear for easy transport.
Our pick: Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker
Weighing just 63 pounds, this unit is significantly lighter than the pellet grill. Its compact dimensions of 23 by 22 inches make it easy to move. Two rear rolling wheels assist with mobility. The external ash removal and grease drawer simplify cleanup, allowing you to focus on cooking rather than maintenance.
Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill
Best for: Versatile grilling and smoking
- 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 is a wood pellet grill and smoker with 747 square inches of cooking space. It uses a digital controller to reach 180° to 500°F, with a flame broiler lever allowing direct searing up to 1,000°F. The 21 lb hopper supports long cooks. This model suits you if you want versatile grilling and smoking in one unit with a solid bottom shelf for storage.
- 747 square inches of cooking space
- Flame Broiler Lever for searing up to 1,000°F
- 21 lb hopper capacity
- Digital controller with 5°F increments
- Heavier build at 119 pounds
- Lower maximum temperature than gas vertical smokers
- You want to smoke and sear with one device
- You need extra storage on the bottom shelf
- You prefer wood pellet flavor
- You need a vertical smoker shape
- You want faster heat-up times
- You prefer gas fuel convenience
Verdict: Pit Boss 700 FB2 Wood Pellet Grill fits you if you value pellet versatility and high-heat searing capability over the compact vertical design of the 3-Series Gas Smoker.
Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker
Best for: Small spaces and propane smokers
- Cooking Area
- 880 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 100°F – 320°F
- Cooking Racks
- 4 racks
- Fuel
- Gas
- Smoker Style
- Vertical
- Features
- Offset Smoker
This Pit Boss vertical smoker offers 880 square inches of cooking space across four racks. It reaches 100°F to 320°F using a dual burner system with 12,500 BTUs. The unit features a piezo ignition and runs on propane. Its vertical design fits into smaller outdoor areas. You get a large viewing window and easy access to grease and ash drawers. This model suits those who want consistent smoke without managing wood pellets.
- 880 sq. inch cooking area with four racks
- Dual valve system with 12,500 BTU output
- Piezo ignition for easy propane startup
- External wood chip and ash removal
- Vertical design limits horizontal space for large cuts
- Maximum temperature caps at 320°F
- Heavier build at 63 pounds
- You need a compact footprint for small patios
- You prefer propane convenience over wood pellet management
- You want precise temperature control for smoking
- You require high-heat searing above 320°F
- You need to cook large whole turkeys horizontally
- You want a grill for direct flame cooking
Verdict: Pit Boss 3-Series Vertical Gas Smoker provides reliable smoke flavor in a space-saving vertical format. It fits buyers who prioritize propane ease and consistent low-and-slow cooking over high-heat versatility.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill | Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 747 sq in | 880 sq in |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 500°F | 100°F – 320°F |
| Controller Type | LCD digital | – |
| Cooking Racks | 2 tiers | 4 racks |
| Meat Probes | 1 probe | – |
| Hopper Capacity | 21 lb | – |
| Fuel | Wood Pellet | Gas |
| Smoker Style | – | Vertical |
| Features | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe, Digital Controller | Offset Smoker |
| Use | Grilling, Smoker | Smoker |
| Color | Black | Red Hammertone |
| Dimensions | 26.8 × 43.7 × 47 inches | 22 × 23 × 47 inches |
| Weight | 119 pounds | 63 pounds |
| Size | 700FB2 | 880 sq inches |
| Model | 11087 | 10773 |
Frequently asked questions
Which Pit Boss grill is better for direct searing?
The Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill is better for direct searing. It features a Flame Broiler that reaches high temperatures for searing steaks. The 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker is designed for low-and-slow smoking and does not offer the same high-heat direct cooking capability.
How much cooking space does each unit provide?
The Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker offers 880 square inches of cooking space. The Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill provides 747 square inches of usable area. You should choose the vertical smoker if you need more total rack space for large batches.
Which model is lighter and easier to move?
The Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker is lighter. It weighs 63 pounds. The Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill is heavier at 119 pounds. You will find the vertical smoker easier to reposition on a patio or deck due to its lower weight.
What are the physical dimensions of the pellet grill?
The Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill measures 43.7 inches in width, 26.8 inches in length, and 47 inches in height. These dimensions require more floor space than the vertical smoker. You need a wider area to accommodate its offset smoker design and pellet hopper.
Does the pellet grill include a meat probe?
Yes, the Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill includes a meat probe. This feature helps you monitor internal food temperatures without opening the lid. The 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker data does not list a built-in probe, so you may need to use a separate thermometer.
Which unit has a digital temperature controller?
The Pit Boss 700 FB2 Pellet Grill features a digital controller. This allows you to set precise temperatures for consistent cooking results. The 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker uses a manual gas valve for heat control rather than a digital interface. You prefer the pellet grill for automated temperature management.
Is the vertical smoker suitable for small patios?
Yes, the Pit Boss 3-Series Gas Vertical Smoker is suitable for small spaces. It measures 23 inches wide and 22 inches long. Its compact footprint saves space compared to the wider pellet grill. You can fit it easily into tight corners or smaller outdoor cooking areas.
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.
