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10 Best Small Pellet Grills 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Traeger Grills Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, Electric Pellet Smoker Grill Combo, 6-in-1 BBQ Versatility, 572 sq. in. Grilling Capacity, Meat Probe, 450 Degree Max Temperature, 18LB Hopper, Bronze

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,422
Hopper Capacity
Build Quality
Ease of Cleaning

Most important from
2198 reviews

Hopper Capacity
The large hopper is a favorite feature, providing convenience for extended cooking sessions.
Build Quality
The grill's robust build quality ensures durability and long-term use.
Ease of Cleaning
Although accessing the fire pot can be cumbersome, regular maintenance is manageable for the average user.

The Traeger Grills Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker is a versatile option for those who enjoy outdoor cooking with a variety of methods, including grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, braising, and BBQ. With a cooking area of 572 sq. in., it offers ample space to cook large meals, making it suitable for family gatherings and parties.

The temperature range is impressive, operating from 180°F to 450°F, supported by a Digital Pro Controller for precise temperature control within +/- 15 degrees. This ensures consistent cooking results, whether you're cooking low and slow or hot and fast. The 18lb hopper capacity allows for extended cooking times without frequent refills, which is convenient for longer smoking sessions.

The build quality is robust, with powder-coated steel and porcelain-coated grill grates that are durable and easy to clean. Additionally, the design includes a sawhorse chassis, side lift bar, and large wheels, which enhance its portability across various outdoor setups. However, its weight of 125.4 pounds might make it challenging to move for some users. The built-in meat probe is a handy feature for monitoring internal food temperatures without lifting the lid, thus maintaining consistent heat. While the grill is packed with features, it may require a learning curve for beginners to fully utilize all its capabilities. With a 4.5-star rating from nearly 2,000 reviews, it is well-regarded among users. This grill is ideal for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who value versatility, build quality, and precise control over cooking temperatures.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,422
Hopper Capacity
Build Quality
Ease of Cleaning

Most important from
2198 reviews

Hopper Capacity
The large hopper is a favorite feature, providing convenience for extended cooking sessions.
Build Quality
The grill's robust build quality ensures durability and long-term use.
Ease of Cleaning
Although accessing the fire pot can be cumbersome, regular maintenance is manageable for the average user.
#2

Traeger Grills Woodridge Pro Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, 970 Sq. In., Outdoor Pellet Smoker Grill with Digital Sensor and Side Shelf, Wi-FIRE Technology, Super Smoke Mode, TFB97JLH

The Traeger Grills Woodridge Pro Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker offers an expansive cooking area of 970 square inches, making it well-suited for large gatherings and events. This pellet grill can comfortably accommodate up to seven chickens or nine rib racks at a time, which makes it particularly appealing for those who frequently host outdoor parties or family meals. A standout feature is its WiFIRE technology, allowing you to monitor the grill’s temperature remotely via an app—a handy addition for tech-savvy users who appreciate convenience. Additionally, the Super Smoke mode enhances the wood-fired flavor, perfect for infusing meats with a rich, smoky taste.

Weighing in at 174 pounds, this grill is quite heavy, which could limit its portability despite its free-standing design. The grill requires assembly, which might be a concern for users who are not comfortable with DIY projects, although necessary tools and instructions are provided. The digital temperature control and pellet sensor help maintain consistent heat, ensuring precision in cooking, which is great for both novice and seasoned grillers.

In terms of build quality, the grill is constructed with sturdy materials, including a powder-coated finish and stainless steel handles, promising durability. Cleaning is simplified with features like the EZ-Clean Grease & Ash Keg. The folding side shelf provides additional prep space, and there's the option to expand functionality with Traeger's accessory line. While it delivers excellent wood-fired flavor and smart features, its weight and assembly needs might be less appealing to those seeking a more portable and plug-and-play option.

#3

Traeger Grills Woodridge Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, Wi-Fi Temperature Control up to 500 Degrees, 860 Sq. In. Cooking Capacity, 6-in-1 for Outdoor Grilling, Smoking, and BBQ, TFB86MLH

Rating
8.8
Cooking Area
Temperature Range
Portability

Most important from
85 reviews

Cooking Area
Consistently praised for its ease of operation and consistent cooking results.
Temperature Range
Highly reliable and easy to use, making it a favorite for daily grilling and special occasions.
Portability
Built sturdy and dependable, ideal for stationary backyard use but less suited for portability.
Build Quality
Built sturdy and dependable, ideal for stationary backyard use but less suited for portability.
Ease of Cleaning
Maintenance is straightforward with helpful customer support backing it up.

The Traeger Grills Woodridge Electric Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker stands out for its spacious cooking area of 860 square inches, offering ample space to prepare meals for family gatherings or parties. Its temperature range from 180 to 500°F, controlled via Wi-Fi, provides precision for various cooking styles like grilling, smoking, and baking, enhancing versatility with its 6-in-1 functionality. This makes it a great fit for both weekend grillers and BBQ enthusiasts looking to experiment with different cooking techniques.

The enhanced wood-fired flavor adds a natural taste that many find appealing, eliminating the need for gas or charcoal. The build quality, weighing in at 185 pounds, suggests a sturdy construction suitable for stationary use in the backyard, although its weight may limit portability for some users.

One of its key strengths is ease of cleaning, thanks to the EZ-Clean Grease & Ash Keg, simplifying maintenance and keeping the grill ready for the next use. However, personalization options require separate purchases for accessories, which might add to the overall cost. Assembly is required, which could be a minor inconvenience for some users. In terms of drawbacks, the grill's weight and size may not fit those looking for a more portable option, and while the digital temperature control and built-in thermometer add convenience, they rely on Wi-Fi connectivity, which might not be consistently reliable in all outdoor settings. Despite these considerations, the grill's high customer satisfaction rating suggests it meets the needs of those who prioritize quality and flavor in their outdoor cooking experiences.

Rating
8.8
Cooking Area
Temperature Range
Portability

Most important from
85 reviews

Cooking Area
Consistently praised for its ease of operation and consistent cooking results.
Temperature Range
Highly reliable and easy to use, making it a favorite for daily grilling and special occasions.
Portability
Built sturdy and dependable, ideal for stationary backyard use but less suited for portability.
Build Quality
Built sturdy and dependable, ideal for stationary backyard use but less suited for portability.
Ease of Cleaning
Maintenance is straightforward with helpful customer support backing it up.

Buying Guide for the Best Small Pellet Grills

When choosing a small pellet grill, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Pellet grills are versatile cooking devices that use wood pellets to provide a unique flavor to your food. They are great for grilling, smoking, roasting, and even baking. To make an informed decision, you should understand the key features and how they align with your cooking preferences and lifestyle.
Cooking AreaThe cooking area refers to the total space available for grilling on the pellet grill. This is important because it determines how much food you can cook at one time. Small pellet grills typically have a cooking area ranging from 200 to 500 square inches. If you usually cook for a small family or a few friends, a grill with around 200-300 square inches should suffice. For larger gatherings or if you like to cook multiple items simultaneously, consider a grill with 400-500 square inches.
Temperature RangeThe temperature range of a pellet grill indicates the minimum and maximum temperatures it can achieve. This is crucial because different types of cooking require different temperatures. Most small pellet grills offer a range from around 180°F to 500°F. If you plan to smoke meats, look for a grill that can maintain lower temperatures around 180°F. For grilling and searing, a higher maximum temperature of 450°F to 500°F is ideal. Choose a grill with a temperature range that matches your cooking style.
Hopper CapacityThe hopper capacity refers to the amount of wood pellets the grill can hold. This is important because it affects how long you can cook without needing to refill the pellets. Small pellet grills usually have hopper capacities between 5 to 20 pounds. If you prefer longer cooking sessions or smoking meats for several hours, a larger hopper capacity (15-20 pounds) is beneficial. For shorter cooking times or occasional use, a smaller hopper (5-10 pounds) should be sufficient.
PortabilityPortability is a key factor if you plan to move your pellet grill around, whether it's for tailgating, camping, or simply storing it away when not in use. Look for features like wheels, handles, and a compact design. Lightweight grills (under 100 pounds) are easier to transport. If you need a grill that you can easily take on the go, prioritize portability features.
Build QualityThe build quality of a pellet grill refers to the materials and construction used in its design. This is important for durability and longevity. High-quality grills are typically made from stainless steel or heavy-duty powder-coated steel, which resist rust and wear. If you plan to use your grill frequently or leave it outdoors, invest in a model with robust build quality. For occasional use or indoor storage, a lighter build may be acceptable.
Ease of CleaningEase of cleaning is an important consideration for maintaining your pellet grill. Features like removable ash pans, grease management systems, and non-stick grates can make cleaning much simpler. If you want to minimize maintenance time, look for grills with these convenient cleaning features. For those who don't mind a bit of extra effort, standard cleaning methods will suffice.

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