You might assume that bigger grills always produce better food, but pellet smokers actually reward precise temperature control over sheer mass. I have spent significant time comparing these models and reading through owner feedback to see which builds hold up. My goal is to guide you toward the right hardware for your patio. Let’s see how these Navigator series machines rank when you want an honest, straightforward comparison.
1. Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, Flame Broiler and LCD Digital Controller, 932-Sq. In. Cook Space, 180°F to 500°F Temp Range, Meat Probe, 30 lb. Hopper
The 850 earns the top spot because it hits the sweet spot of versatile cooking space and heat management. It feels like a standard backyard grill but adds the convenience of an automated hopper. In my view, this is the most balanced option for a typical household.
You get a 932-square-inch area that handles everything from quick burgers to long, slow brisket smokes. I appreciate the inclusion of the flame broiler slide, which allows for direct-flame searing that many pellet grills lack. It is a reliable workhorse for those who want to do a little bit of everything.
Buyers frequently mention that the 850 offers the best balance of footprint and capacity.
The consistent temperature regulation is a top highlight in user reports.
Most owners find the assembly process manageable for a single person.
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2. Pit Boss 1300 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, Flame Broiler and Touchscreen Controller, 1,329-Sq. In. Cook Space, 180°F to 500°F Temp Range, Meat Probe, 30 lb. Hopper
This grill is built for the neighborhood hero who hosts large weekend gatherings. If you need to feed a dozen people at once, this 1,329-square-inch surface is your best friend. It functions like a massive kitchen stove for the outdoors.
I find the touchscreen controller to be a significant upgrade over standard button interfaces for quick adjustments. It provides a modern way to manage your cook while you are busy managing your guests. Just keep in mind that the larger footprint requires a dedicated, permanent spot on your deck.
Frequent hosts praise the massive capacity for large cuts of meat.
The touchscreen interface is widely regarded as a significant usability improvement.
Users note that the larger size makes it slower to reach high searing temperatures.
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3. Pit Boss Navigator 6-Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet Vertical Smoker with LCD Digital Controller, 2,224-Sq. In. 5-Rack Cooking Space, 130°F to 420°F TempRange, Meat Probe, 75 lb. Pellet Hopper
The most surprising feature here is the 75-pound hopper, which is large enough to keep your smoker running through a long overnight brisket session without a refill. It turns the chore of monitoring pellets into a rare, occasional task. To me, this is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it machine.
Because this is a vertical unit, it uses five racks to maximize airflow and space. You can load it with racks of ribs or sausages until the walls are nearly touching. It is a specialized tool that focuses entirely on the art of low-and-slow cooking.
Owners love the massive hopper for long, unattended cooks.
The vertical design is praised for its efficient use of small floor footprints.
Feedback suggests that the wide temperature range allows for excellent cold smoking.
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4. Pit Boss Navigator 3-Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet Vertical Smoker with LCD Digital Controller, 1,118-Sq. In. 5-Rack Cooking Space, 130°F to 420°F Temp Range, Meat Probe, 50 lb. Pellet Hopper
A common complaint is that the smaller vertical units can feel tight when you need to smoke tall items like a whole turkey. However, for a standard family meal, the 1,118-square-inch capacity is more than sufficient. You have to be strategic with your rack placement to maximize the available height.
I think this unit is a smart entry point for anyone who wants to focus on smoking rather than grilling. It keeps your backyard footprint small while still offering the 50-pound hopper that defines this series. It is a compact, efficient way to get into serious barbecue.
Many families find the size perfect for weekly meal preparation.
Users often report that the door seal is effective at locking in heat and smoke.
Some owners suggest using a wireless thermometer to supplement the built-in probe.
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Choosing Between Them
I recommend the Pit Boss 850 Navigator as the best overall choice for most people because its versatile cooking surface provides the perfect middle ground between capacity and footprint. For those who prioritize volume, the 6-Series Vertical Smoker is a powerhouse, while the 1300 Navigator is the clear winner for large crowds. If you are a smaller family, the 3-Series Vertical Smoker delivers excellent efficiency without overwhelming your patio space.
Keep in mind that these pellet machines require regular cleaning to keep the auger system moving freely. Regardless of which model you choose, staying on top of your ash removal routine is essential for long-term performance. I believe this range covers every skill level, provided you are willing to keep the internal components clean and clear.
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