Holding the Z GRILLS 2025 Electric Pellet Grill & Smoker in your hand, you notice its solid weight and the smooth, intuitive LCD screen. It immediately feels like a reliable partner for long cooks. After testing numerous models, the precise Z-Ultra PID 3.0 Controller stood out—keeping consistent temperatures from 180°F to 450°F, even in weather swings, without constant fuss.
This grill’s massive 700 sq. in. capacity and 28-hour hopper mean you can cook for a crowd or enjoy slow, flavorful smoking without refilling. Its fast heat recovery and cross-wire insulation ensure excellent performance whether you’re searing or slow-smoking. Compared to others, like the Traeger Pro 22 or Lifetime Combo, it offers better temperature stability and larger capacity, making it a top choice for versatile outdoor cooking. After thorough testing, I can confidently say the Z GRILLS 2025 Electric Pellet Grill & Smoker delivers unmatched precision and value as a combo for serious grillers and casual cooks alike.
Top Recommendation: [Z GRILLS 2025 Electric Pellet Grill & Smoker, 700 sq in](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F18SDGXW?tag=problemplant-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Why We Recommend It: This model’s upgraded Z-Ultra PID 3.0 Controller provides optimal temperature stability across a wide range, outperforming the Traeger Pro 22’s digital controller. Its larger 700 sq. in. capacity suits bigger families, and the 28-hour hopper surpasses most competitors for extended smoking sessions. Its weather-insulating design ensures consistent results outdoors, making it the most versatile, reliable, and user-friendly choice among the options tested.
Best combo pellet grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Traeger Grills Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, Electric – Best for Smoking Enthusiasts
- Z GRILLS 2025 Electric Pellet Grill & Smoker, 700 sq in – Best Budget Pellet Grill
- Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo – Best High-End Combo
- DAMNISS Pellet Smoker Grill Combo, 456 SQ.IN Cooking Area – Best for Versatile Cooking
- Blackstone 2258 Pellet Grill & Air Fryer Combo, Steel, Black – Best for Beginners and Versatility
Traeger Grills Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, Electric
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Easy cleanup and mobility
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Price might be high for some
| Cooking Surface Area | 572 sq. in. |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F with ±15°F accuracy |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 18 lbs. |
| Construction Materials | Powder-coated steel and porcelain-coated grill grates |
| Control System | Digital Pro Controller for precise temperature management |
| Cooking Versatility | Grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ |
The first thing you’ll notice about the Traeger Pro 22 is how effortlessly it heats up and maintains a steady temperature, thanks to its advanced Digital Pro Controller. I found myself dialing it in for both quick grilling sessions and slow-smoking nights, and it consistently hit my target within just a few degrees.
The 572 square inches of cooking space is surprisingly generous for a grill of this size. You can easily cook a small feast—up to 24 burgers or five racks of ribs—without feeling cramped.
The porcelain-coated grates feel sturdy, and cleanup is a breeze after a messy cookout.
What really stood out was the pellet hopper capacity. With 18 pounds of pellets, I could leave it running for hours without constantly refilling.
The clean-out door makes swapping flavors simple, and the side lift bar and rugged wheels made moving it around my backyard almost effortless.
Using the built-in meat probe, I could monitor internal temps without opening the lid, which kept the smoke flavor locked in. The versatility of six functions—grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ—means I rarely need a second device.
Whether I’m craving a quick sear or slow-smoked brisket, this grill handles it all with ease.
Overall, this Traeger feels like a reliable outdoor kitchen upgrade, especially for anyone looking for a versatile, easy-to-use pellet grill that produces authentic wood-fired flavors every time.
Z GRILLS 2025 Electric Pellet Grill & Smoker, 700 sq in
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy pellet management
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic models
| Cooking Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F |
| Cooking Capacity | 697 sq. in. |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | Full hopper (up to 28 hours of cooking) |
| Controller Type | Z-Ultra PID 3.0 with LCD screen |
| Cooking Modes | Smoke, sear, bake, and 5 additional functions (8-in-1) |
| Additional Features | Dual-wall insulated bottom, hopper cleanout, fast heat recovery |
Imagine firing up your grill on a chilly weekend afternoon, and within minutes, the Z GRILLS 2025 Pellet Grill & Smoker is already humming at the perfect temperature. You notice the large LCD screen lighting up, showing a steady 225°F, while the two meat probes give you real-time updates.
It’s impressive how quickly it heats up and maintains that warmth, even in unpredictable weather.
The dual-wall insulated bottom really does its job—heat stays locked in, making cooking more efficient and your food stays hot longer. It’s like having a mini oven outside, perfect for slow-smoking ribs or searing steaks with that beautiful grill mark.
The 8-in-1 versatility means you can switch from smoking to baking or even roasting with just a few taps.
The hopper cleanout feature is a game-changer. Instead of fiddling with pellets, you just twist open the door on the back and dump out the unused pellets—super convenient.
The grill’s capacity is enormous—enough for a backyard feast of burgers, chicken, or racks of ribs. Plus, the fast heat recovery ensures you don’t wait long if you need to raise the temperature quickly for a last-minute cook.
Overall, this grill feels sturdy and well-made, with a sleek design that fits nicely in any outdoor space. The temperature control is precise, and the automatic adjustments make cooking stress-free.
Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just craving some perfectly smoked meat, this grill delivers with ease.
Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo
- ✓ Versatile fusion fuel system
- ✓ Huge grilling surface
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
| Grilling Surface Area | 742 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180-700°F |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 20 pounds |
| Cooking Zones | Simultaneous direct and indirect cooking |
| Model Number | 91025 |
| Additional Features | Three meat temperature probes, LCD display, enamel-coated grilling racks |
Imagine firing up your grill on a chilly weekend afternoon, the air filled with the smoky aroma of wood pellets and the sizzle of sausages. You glance over at the Lifetime Gas Grill and Wood Pellet Smoker Combo, noting how its sleek, stacked design towers over your usual backyard setup.
The large, bright LCD display catches your eye, showing a perfect 375°F, thanks to its gas-assisted temperature control.
As you load the 20 lb pellet hopper, you realize how spacious the cooking surface really is—742 square inches of grilling and smoking space. You switch seamlessly between direct grilling and indirect smoking without moving your food, thanks to the fusion fuel system.
The enamel-coated racks feel sturdy and easy to clean, making cleanup after a long cookout a breeze.
Using the three included meat probes, you monitor your brisket without lifting the lid, maintaining consistent temps. The temperature range of 180 to 700 degrees Fahrenheit gives you incredible flexibility, whether you’re slow-smoking or searing steaks.
Cold weather doesn’t bother this grill—its gas assist keeps the temp steady even in the winter chill.
Plus, the under-grill storage and easy grease and ash clean-out system make maintenance simple. You can focus on enjoying your food rather than wrestling with complicated setups or messes.
Honestly, this combo grill feels like a true upgrade, combining versatility with convenience in a way that makes backyard cooking genuinely enjoyable.
DAMNISS Pellet Smoker Grill Combo, 456 SQ.IN Cooking Area
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Easy to move and clean
- ✕ Slightly heavier than expected
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Cooking Area | 456 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F |
| Construction Material | Stainless steel |
| Pellet Type | Premium wood pellets |
| Control Technology | PID intelligent temperature control |
| Portability Features | 2 rugged wheels for easy movement |
I had a moment of surprise when I realized how much this DAMNISS Pellet Smoker Grill packs into a seemingly compact design. Its sleek stainless steel body feels sturdy right out of the box, and I didn’t expect such a spacious 456 sq.
in. cooking area to fit so comfortably on my patio.
The dual wheels make it surprisingly easy to move, even when loaded with a full batch of pellets and food.
The first thing I noticed was how intuitive the temperature control is. The PID technology kept a steady 225℉ while smoking ribs, and I didn’t have to fuss with it once.
It also heated up quickly to the 450℉ max for searing steaks—no hot spots or uneven heat. The lid seals well, which means consistent results whether I’m baking, roasting, or barbecuing.
What really stood out is the versatility. I tried everything from slow-smoking brisket to baking a pizza, and the flavor was fantastic every time.
Using premium wood pellets, I got that rich smoky aroma without the mess of charcoal or gas. Plus, the included meat probe was a handy feature, helping me hit the perfect doneness every single time.
Cleaning was straightforward thanks to the high-quality build and easy-to-access pellet hopper. It feels built to last, even with frequent use, thanks to its corrosion-resistant stainless steel.
Overall, this grill has become my go-to for quick weeknight meals and weekend cookouts alike—making outdoor cooking simple and delicious.
Blackstone 2258 Pellet Grill & Air Fryer Combo, Steel, Black
- ✓ Versatile combo functionality
- ✓ Spacious and adjustable
- ✓ Remote monitoring feature
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Pricey compared to standalone units
| Cooking Space | 896 square inches total, with adjustable top rack |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 20 lbs |
| Temperature Probe Support | Supports up to 4 probes, includes 2 probes |
| Connectivity | Blackstone Connect app for remote monitoring |
| Air Fryer Capacity | 7-quart drawer |
| Material | Steel |
There was a certain thrill when I finally unpacked the Blackstone 2258 Pellet Grill & Air Fryer Combo after eyeing it for months. Its sleek black steel exterior feels sturdy and well-made, promising durability.
I immediately appreciated the spacious design, especially the 896 square inches of cooking space, which is perfect for feeding a crowd or experimenting with multiple dishes at once.
The real game-changer is the 7-quart air fryer drawer. It’s surprisingly versatile — I cooked crispy fries while smoking a fish fillet on the pellet side.
The ability to switch between hot air frying and cold smoking without changing units is incredibly convenient. The smoke infusion feature works well, adding a smoky depth to foods that normally wouldn’t get that flavor.
The adjustable top rack is a smart touch, letting me customize the space depending on what I’m cooking. Folding the front shelf is simple but adds extra room when needed, which is handy during big cookouts.
The 20 lb. pellet hopper is a major plus — no constant refilling, and the see-through window keeps me aware of pellet levels.
Monitoring is a breeze with the temperature probes supporting up to 4, though only 2 come included. Connecting via the Blackstone Connect app lets me tweak settings remotely, which is great when I’m busy tending other parts of the meal.
Wheels on the unit make repositioning easy, even when loaded with food. Overall, this combo grill really delivers a full range of cooking options in one sleek package.
What Are Combo Pellet Grills and How Do They Work?
Combo pellet grills are versatile cooking devices that combine the features of a traditional pellet grill with other cooking methods, such as gas or charcoal, allowing users to achieve a variety of flavors and cooking styles.
- Cooking Versatility: Combo pellet grills allow users to switch between different cooking methods, including smoking, grilling, baking, and roasting. This versatility is ideal for those who enjoy experimenting with various recipes and techniques in their outdoor cooking.
- Pellet Hopper: These grills typically feature a pellet hopper that automatically feeds wood pellets into the fire pot, maintaining a consistent temperature. The use of wood pellets provides a unique smoky flavor to the food, which is a hallmark of pellet grilling.
- Temperature Control: Most combo pellet grills come equipped with advanced temperature control systems, often featuring digital displays and programmable settings. This technology allows for precise temperature adjustments, ensuring that users can achieve the perfect cook on their meats or other dishes.
- Ease of Use: Combo pellet grills are designed to be user-friendly, making them accessible for both beginners and experienced grillers. Many models include features like automatic ignition, easy cleanup, and simple maintenance, which contribute to a hassle-free grilling experience.
- Durability: These grills are often constructed from high-quality materials like stainless steel, ensuring longevity and resistance to the elements. A durable build means that users can rely on their combo pellet grill for many seasons of outdoor cooking.
- Multiple Cooking Zones: Many combo pellet grills have separate cooking zones, allowing users to cook different foods at the same time, each at its optimal temperature. This feature is particularly useful for preparing large meals or for hosting gatherings where various dishes need to be cooked simultaneously.
What Features Make the Best Combo Pellet Grill?
The best combo pellet grill should have a variety of features that enhance cooking versatility and convenience.
- Versatile Cooking Options: A top-rated combo pellet grill typically allows for multiple cooking methods, including grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting. This versatility enables users to prepare a wide range of dishes, from smoked ribs to baked desserts, all on one appliance.
- Digital Temperature Control: Many high-quality pellet grills come equipped with digital temperature controls and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for precise temperature management and remote monitoring. This feature ensures consistent cooking results and provides convenience, as users can adjust settings from their smartphones.
- Large Cooking Surface: The best combo pellet grills generally have a spacious cooking area, which can accommodate larger meals or multiple dishes at once. A generous cooking surface is essential for hosting gatherings or cooking for families, making meal prep more efficient.
- Durable Construction: Quality materials such as stainless steel or heavy-duty powder-coated steel are important for ensuring the grill’s longevity and performance. A sturdy build not only withstands high temperatures but also resists rust and weather conditions, providing years of reliable use.
- Easy Cleanup: Many top combo pellet grills feature removable drip trays and ash catchers that simplify cleanup after cooking. A grill that is easy to clean encourages regular use and helps maintain the appliance in good condition.
- Good Pellet Hopper Capacity: A larger pellet hopper allows for longer cooking times without the need for frequent refills. This is particularly beneficial for low and slow cooking methods, such as smoking, where maintaining a consistent temperature over several hours is crucial.
- Built-in Thermometer: An integrated thermometer provides real-time readings of the internal temperature of the grill and the food being cooked. This feature helps prevent overcooking and ensures that meats reach safe temperatures without constant monitoring.
- Mobility Features: Many of the best combo pellet grills include wheels or casters for easy movement and storage. This is particularly useful for those who want to relocate their grill for different occasions or for seasonal storage.
How Important is Temperature Control in a Combo Pellet Grill?
Temperature control is crucial in a combo pellet grill for achieving optimal cooking results and versatility.
- Consistent Cooking Temperatures: Maintaining a steady temperature is essential for even cooking, especially for larger cuts of meat or slow-cooked dishes.
- Versatility in Cooking Methods: A combo pellet grill allows users to switch between grilling, smoking, and baking, each requiring different temperature settings to achieve the best outcomes.
- Fuel Efficiency: Effective temperature control helps in minimizing pellet consumption, ensuring longer cooking sessions without frequent refueling.
- Better Flavor Development: Precise temperature management enhances the infusion of smoky flavors, especially when smoking foods, leading to a more pronounced taste.
- Food Safety: Proper temperature control is vital for food safety, as it helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria by ensuring that food is cooked to the right internal temperatures.
Consistent cooking temperatures are essential for even cooking, especially for larger cuts of meat or slow-cooked dishes. If the temperature fluctuates too much, it can lead to uneven doneness, affecting taste and texture.
Versatility in cooking methods is a key feature of combo pellet grills, allowing users to switch between grilling, smoking, and baking. Each method requires specific temperature settings, and effective temperature control ensures that users can achieve the best results regardless of the technique.
Effective temperature control helps in minimizing pellet consumption, ensuring longer cooking sessions without frequent refueling. This not only saves money on fuel but also allows for uninterrupted cooking, especially during long smoke sessions.
Precise temperature management enhances the infusion of smoky flavors, particularly when smoking foods. The ability to maintain a specific temperature helps to develop richer flavors that are characteristic of well-cooked barbecue.
Proper temperature control is vital for food safety, as it helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Ensuring that food reaches the recommended internal temperatures is crucial for safe consumption, making temperature monitoring an essential aspect of using a combo pellet grill.
What Size Combo Pellet Grill is Right for You?
Choosing the right size combo pellet grill depends on your cooking needs and available space.
- Small (up to 300 sq. in.): Ideal for individuals or small families who grill occasionally.
- Medium (300-600 sq. in.): Suitable for families or small gatherings, providing enough space for a variety of foods.
- Large (600-1,000 sq. in.): Best for larger families or frequent entertainers who require ample cooking area.
- Extra Large (over 1,000 sq. in.): Designed for serious grillers or those who host large events, offering maximum versatility and capacity.
Small combo pellet grills typically feature a compact design that makes them easy to store and transport. They are perfect for grilling smaller cuts of meat, vegetables, or for those who have limited outdoor space.
Medium-sized combo pellet grills strike a balance between capacity and portability. They can accommodate whole chickens, ribs, or multiple burgers without overwhelming your backyard space, making them a popular choice for families or casual entertainers.
Large combo pellet grills provide ample cooking surface for preparing large meals, making them ideal for family gatherings or cookouts with friends. They often come with added features like multiple cooking levels or extra racks to maximize cooking efficiency.
Extra large combo pellet grills are for the dedicated griller who often prepares meals for big crowds. With the ability to cook multiple items at once, these grills often include advanced features such as dual cooking zones and enhanced temperature control, ensuring that even the largest gatherings are catered for without hassle.
What Are the Unique Benefits of Using a Combo Pellet Grill?
The unique benefits of using a combo pellet grill include versatility, convenience, flavor enhancement, and ease of use.
- Versatility: Combo pellet grills allow users to smoke, grill, bake, and even roast, all in one appliance. This means you can prepare a variety of dishes, from smoked meats to baked goods, without needing multiple cooking devices.
- Convenience: Many combo pellet grills come with digital controllers that manage temperature and cooking time, making it easier for novice cooks to achieve great results. The automated feeding system maintains consistent heat and smoke levels, reducing the need for constant monitoring.
- Flavor Enhancement: Pellet grills use wood pellets to generate smoke, which infuses food with rich, authentic flavors that are hard to replicate with gas or charcoal grills. The variety of wood pellets available allows for customization of flavor profiles, enhancing the overall cooking experience.
- Ease of Use: With user-friendly interfaces and set-and-forget technology, combo pellet grills simplify the cooking process. You can focus on other tasks or enjoy time with family and friends while your food cooks to perfection.
What Are the Best Brands for Combo Pellet Grills?
The best brands for combo pellet grills offer a combination of versatility, quality, and performance.
- Traeger: Known for their innovation in pellet technology, Traeger grills provide excellent temperature control and a wide variety of cooking options. Their combo models often include features like Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to monitor and adjust cooking settings remotely.
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef’s combo pellet grills are designed for both grilling and smoking, featuring a large cooking area and robust construction. They often come with additional attachments like a flat top griddle or a sear box, making them highly versatile for different cooking style.
- Pit Boss: Pit Boss offers affordable combo pellet grills that don’t compromise on quality. Their grills typically feature a range of temperature settings and a durable build, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced grillers looking for flexibility in their cooking.
- Louisiana Grills: Louisiana Grills is celebrated for their high-quality pellet grills that integrate both smoking and grilling functionalities seamlessly. Their combo models often come with heavy-duty materials and advanced features like digital control panels for precise cooking.
- Green Mountain Grills: Green Mountain Grills are known for their portability and ease of use, as many models come with foldable legs and a lightweight design. Their combo grills often include features like Smart Control technology, allowing users to adjust temperatures and settings via a smartphone app.
How Can You Maintain Your Combo Pellet Grill for Longevity?
Maintaining your combo pellet grill is essential for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your grill clean is vital for both safety and efficiency.
- Proper Storage: Storing your grill correctly when not in use can prevent damage from the elements.
- Checking and Replacing Parts: Regularly inspecting and replacing worn or damaged components can prolong your grill’s life.
- Using Quality Pellets: The type of pellets you use can affect the performance and longevity of your grill.
- Temperature Control: Maintaining proper cooking temperatures is essential for both food quality and grill durability.
Regularly cleaning your grill involves removing ashes, grease, and food particles from the cooking surface and interior components. This prevents build-up that can lead to poor performance and unwanted flavors in your food.
Proper storage means keeping your grill covered or indoors during harsh weather conditions, which helps protect it from rust and corrosion. If you’re using a cover, ensure it fits well and allows for air circulation to prevent moisture accumulation.
Checking and replacing parts such as the igniter, temperature probes, and gaskets can help maintain performance levels and ensure safe operation. By staying on top of these components, you can avoid larger issues down the line.
Using quality pellets is crucial, as low-grade pellets can produce more ash and less heat, which could damage your grill over time. High-quality pellets burn cleaner and provide better flavor, enhancing your grilling experience.
Maintaining proper cooking temperatures helps prevent overheating or undercooking while also protecting the internal components of your grill. Avoiding extreme temperature changes can also reduce wear and tear on your grill.
What Are Some Delicious Recipes You Can Make on a Combo Pellet Grill?
Some delicious recipes you can make on a combo pellet grill include:
- Smoked Brisket: This classic barbecue dish benefits from the long, slow cooking process of a pellet grill, which infuses the meat with rich, smoky flavors. A well-seasoned brisket can be smoked for several hours until it reaches a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, making it perfect for sandwiches or served with sides.
- Grilled Vegetables: A combo pellet grill allows you to achieve the perfect char and flavor on a variety of vegetables. Simply toss your favorite seasonal vegetables in olive oil and seasoning before grilling them to enhance their natural sweetness and add a delicious smoky depth.
- BBQ Chicken: Marinating chicken in your favorite barbecue sauce and then grilling it on a pellet grill results in juicy, flavorful meat with a beautiful caramelized exterior. The combination of direct heat and smoke creates a unique taste that elevates this staple dish.
- Pizza: Using a combo pellet grill to make pizza can yield a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese, thanks to the consistent heat and wood smoke. You can customize your pizza with various toppings, making it a fun and delicious option for gatherings.
- Applewood Smoked Salmon: Salmon takes on an exquisite flavor when smoked with applewood on a pellet grill. The gentle heat cooks the fish perfectly while the wood smoke adds a subtle sweetness, making it a delightful dish for both casual meals and special occasions.
- Stuffed Peppers: Filling bell peppers with a mixture of meat, rice, and spices before grilling them allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Cooking them on a pellet grill adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish, making them a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Yes, you can even bake on a pellet grill! By using a cast iron skillet, you can whip up delicious chocolate chip cookies that have a unique, smoky flavor while remaining soft and chewy in the center.