Z Grills or EAST OAK? Pellet Grills Compared in 2026
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You are deciding between the Z Grills 700 sq in Pellet Smoker and the EAST OAK 30" Electric Smoker. This z grills vs EAST OAK pellet grill comparison highlights their core differences. Both units offer automated temperature control and built-in meat probes for precise cooking. The main distinction lies in their power source and design. Z Grills uses wood pellets for a traditional smoky flavor, while EAST OAK relies on electricity and wood chips for a different smoke profile. You need to choose based on your preferred fuel and cooking style.
Fuel
Wood Pellet
Electric
Cooking Area
697 sq in
725 sq in
Grill Type
Pellet Grill/Smoker
Built-In Smoker
Weight
120 pounds
52.3 pounds
Temperature Control
PID 3.0 Precision Control
Digital Controls
Choose the first if
- You want the authentic flavor of wood pellets and a traditional grill experience.
- You need a versatile unit that can smoke, sear, and roast at high temperatures.
- You prefer a heavier, more robust unit with dual-wall insulation for heat retention.
Choose the second if
- You prioritize ease of use with simple electric plug-in operation.
- You want a lighter, more portable smoker that is easier to move.
- You need a built-in design that integrates seamlessly into outdoor kitchen setups.
Verdict
Choose the Z Grills if you want the robust flavor and versatility of pellet grilling with precise PID control. Pick the EAST OAK if you prefer a lightweight, electric smoker that is easy to install and manage with minimal effort. Your decision should hinge on whether you value traditional pellet smoke or convenient electric operation.
Z Grills vs EAST OAK Comparison
Fuel type
Edge: Tie
The Z Grills model uses wood pellets as its fuel source. This system relies on a hopper to feed pellets into a fire pot, creating smoke and heat through combustion. It supports up to 28 hours of continuous cooking on a full load. The EAST OAK unit runs on electricity. It uses an electric heating element to generate heat and includes a side chip loader for adding wood chips manually. This electric smoker does not require pellets or a complex feeding mechanism. You choose between the authentic smoke flavor of pellets or the convenience of electric power with added wood chips.
Cooking area
Edge: EAST OAK 30" Electric Smoker
Cooking space differs slightly between these two units. The Z Grills smoker provides 697 square inches of total grill space. This area is sufficient for dozens of burgers, multiple racks of ribs, or several whole chickens. The EAST OAK electric smoker offers 725 square inches of cooking area. This extra space allows for full racks of ribs or multiple whole birds at once. Both capacities are generous for family gatherings. The EAST OAK holds a slight advantage with 28 more square inches. This difference may matter if you frequently cook large batches of meat simultaneously.
Temperature control
Edge: Tie
Both units offer automated temperature management to simplify your cooking process. The Z Grills features a Z-Ultra PID 3.0 precision control system. This upgraded controller automatically manages pellet feed and airflow to maintain stable temperatures between 180°F and 450°F. You can set the temperature and let the grill handle the rest. The EAST OAK smoker uses digital controls to set time and temperature. It includes a built-in meat probe that tracks internal temperature in real time. The unit can also switch to keep-warm mode when the target time is reached. Both systems reduce the need for constant monitoring.
Portability
Edge: EAST OAK 30" Electric Smoker
Weight and size significantly impact how easy it is to move these smokers. The Z Grills model weighs 120 pounds. Its height is 51 inches, making it a substantial outdoor fixture. The EAST OAK electric smoker is much lighter at 52.3 pounds. It measures 32.4 inches in height and length, with a width of 17.6 inches. The lighter weight and smaller footprint of the EAST OAK make it easier to relocate or store. If you plan to move your smoker frequently or have limited storage space, the electric unit is the more practical choice.
Heat retention
Edge: Z Grills 700 sq in Pellet Smoker
How well a smoker retains heat affects performance in varying weather conditions. The Z Grills smoker includes a dual-wall insulated base. This design locks in heat, which boosts pellet efficiency and keeps dishes hot longer. This insulation is particularly useful during chilly weather. The EAST OAK smoker does not mention specific insulation features in its specifications. It relies on its electric heating element and sealed door to maintain temperature. The Z Grills construction offers a clear advantage for consistent heat retention in colder environments.
Which grill suits your cooking style
You want high heat searing and slow smoking
Our pick: Z Grills 700 sq in Pellet Smoker
The Z Grills model reaches up to 450°F for searing while maintaining low temps for smoking. Its PID 3.0 controller manages pellet feed and airflow automatically. You get 697 square inches of cooking space and dual-wall insulation for better heat retention. The 28-hour hopper supports long cooks without frequent refills.
You need a compact built-in electric smoker
Our pick: EAST OAK 30" Electric Smoker
The EAST OAK unit measures 30 inches wide and fits built-in installations. It uses electric power with a side chip loader for easy refills without heat loss. You get 725 square inches of cooking area and a clear viewing window. The digital controls stop automatically when your target time is reached, switching to keep-warm mode.
You prefer lightweight portable grilling setups
Our pick: Z Grills 700 sq in Pellet Smoker
This Z Grills model weighs 120 pounds and features a sturdy bronze finish. It offers versatile 8-in-1 functionality including roasting, baking, and grilling. The large LCD screen and dual meat probes help you monitor progress closely. The hopper cleanout system allows quick pellet swaps, making flavor changes effortless for your outdoor cooking needs.
Z Grills 700 sq in Pellet Smoker
Best for: precise temperature control and long cooks
- Cooking Area
- 697 sq in
- Temperature Range
- 180°F–450°F
- Controller Type
- LCD
- Fuel
- Wood Pellet
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Lid, Meat Probe, PID Controller
- Use
- Grilling, Smoker
The Z Grills VC-700D6 is a 697 sq. in. pellet grill featuring PID 3.0 precision control. It maintains temperatures from 180°F to 450°F for consistent smoking and grilling. The dual-wall insulated base improves heat retention and pellet efficiency. Two built-in meat probes and a large LCD screen simplify monitoring. This unit supports up to 28 hours of continuous cooking, making it suitable for long slow-smokes or fast high-heat tasks.
- PID 3.0 system manages pellet feed and airflow for stable temperatures between 180°F and 450°F.
- Dual-wall insulated base locks in heat to boost pellet efficiency.
- Includes two built-in meat probes and a large LCD screen for monitoring.
- Hopper cleanout system allows quick removal or swapping of pellets.
- Weighs 120 pounds, which is heavier than the comparable EAST OAK 30" Electric Smoker.
- Offers 697 sq. in. of cooking space, slightly less than the 700 sq. in. capacity listed in the title.
- You need precise temperature control for consistent smoking results.
- You want to monitor meat with built-in probes and an LCD screen.
- You plan to cook large batches of burgers or ribs.
- You prefer a lighter grill that is easier to move.
- You are looking for an electric smoker instead of a pellet grill.
- You need more than 700 sq. in. of cooking space.
Verdict: Z Grills 700 sq. in. Pellet Grill delivers stable heat and easy monitoring for cooks who prioritize precision and capacity. It fits those who want to manage long cooks without constant attention.
EAST OAK 30" Electric Smoker
Best for: Large batch smoking with precise temperature control
- Cooking Area
- 725 sq in
- Controller Type
- Digital
- Fuel
- Electric
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Meat Probe
- Grill Type
- Built-In
- Dimensions
- 32.4 × 17.6 × 32.4 inches
This EAST OAK 30-inch electric smoker offers 725 square inches of cooking space, fitting full racks of ribs or multiple whole birds. It features a built-in meat probe for real-time internal temperature tracking and an automatic keep-warm mode. The side chip loader allows refills without heat loss. Weighing 52.3 pounds, this Mist Black unit measures 32.4 inches in height and length, making it a substantial addition to your outdoor kitchen.
- 725 square inches of cooking area
- Built-in meat probe tracks internal temperature
- Side chip loader prevents heat loss
- Automatic keep-warm mode at target time
- Heavier at 52.3 pounds compared to lighter competitors
- Fixed height of 32.4 inches limits placement options
- You need space for large batches of meat
- You want precise temperature monitoring via a probe
- You prefer an offset smoker design
- You require a portable or lightweight grill
- You need a built-in oven rather than a smoker
- You prefer a smaller footprint for tight spaces
Verdict: EAST OAK 30" Electric Offset Smoker suits cooks who prioritize capacity and precise temperature control for large gatherings. Its substantial build and dedicated smoking features make it ideal for serious outdoor meat preparation.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Z Grills 700 sq in Pellet Smoker | EAST OAK 30" Electric Smoker |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 697 sq in | 725 sq in |
| Temperature Range | 180°F–450°F | – |
| Controller Type | LCD | Digital |
| Fuel | Wood Pellet | Electric |
| Features | Offset Smoker, Lid, Meat Probe, PID Controller | Offset Smoker, Meat Probe |
| Grill Type | – | Built-In |
| Use | Grilling, Smoker | Smoker |
| Weight | 120 pounds | 52.3 pounds |
| Dimensions | – | 32.4 × 17.6 × 32.4 inches |
| Size | 697 SQ.IN | 30" |
| Color | Bronze 700D6 | Mist Black |
| Model | VC-700D6 | PES23001 |
Frequently asked questions
Which pellet grill has more cooking space?
The Z Grills 700 sq in Pellet Smoker offers significantly more cooking area. It provides about 700 square inches of space. This capacity suits large families or big gatherings. The EAST OAK 30" Electric Smoker focuses on offset design rather than raw surface area. You should choose the Z Grills model if maximizing grill real estate is your top priority.
How do the weight and portability compare?
The Z Grills unit weighs 120 pounds. It is a substantial piece of equipment. The EAST OAK 30" Electric Smoker is much lighter at 52.3 pounds. Its smaller footprint makes it easier to move. If you need to relocate your smoker often, the EAST OAK option is the more practical choice for handling and placement.
Does the Z Grills model use wood pellets?
Yes, the Z Grills 700 sq in Pellet Smoker uses wood pellets. It features a PID controller to manage the pellet feed automatically. This system creates consistent smoke and heat. The EAST OAK model runs on electricity instead. It is an electric offset smoker that does not require pellet fuel for operation.
Which grill includes a temperature probe?
Both grills include a meat probe for monitoring internal food temperature. The Z Grills model lists a meat probe in its features. The EAST OAK 30" Electric Smoker also includes one. These probes help you track doneness without opening the lid. This feature is standard on both units for precise cooking control.
Is the EAST OAK smoker built-in?
Yes, the EAST OAK 30" Electric Smoker is classified as a built-in unit. It measures 30 inches in size. Its design fits specific outdoor kitchen setups. The Z Grills model is a standalone pellet grill. It sits on its own legs. Choose the EAST OAK if you are integrating the smoker into a custom outdoor structure.
What is the color of the Z Grills model?
The Z Grills 700 sq in Pellet Smoker comes in Bronze. The specific model code is VC-700D6. The EAST OAK smoker is available in Mist Black. Color is a matter of aesthetic preference for your outdoor space. Both finishes offer a durable look suitable for outdoor cooking environments.
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.
