Best Pellet Smokers Under $1,000 (2026)

Best for: Most backyard cooks who want an easy, connected smoker

The Woodridge is Traeger's newer entry-level line, and the base model sits just under $1,000. It gives you a large main grate plus a warming rack, a 24-pound hopper and WiFi control through the Traeger app. Cleanup is simple thanks to the grease and ash keg, and owners report it runs quietly and holds temperature well. Reviewers often note that smoke flavor is on the mild side and it isn't a strong searing grill.

Best for: People who want one cooker for low-and-slow and hot grilling

The Searwood 600 runs from 180°F up to 600°F, and its DirectFlame mode lets fire reach the food for real browning. A SmokeBoost setting holds a low temperature for more smoke flavor, and it comes with two meat probes you can watch on the grill or in the Weber Connect app. Owners report fast heat-up times. It's often on sale under $1,000, but its list price can creep right up to that line.

Best for: Buyers who want premium features for less

Z Grills packs a lot into the 7002C2E for well under $1,000: WiFi and Bluetooth app control, a PID controller, two meat probes and a stainless lid. The 28-pound hopper is one of the biggest in this price range, so long brisket cooks don't need a refill. It also has a pellet clean-out and ash clean-out, which make regular care easier.

Best for: First-time pellet buyers watching the budget

The Pit Boss 850 DX is a Lowe's exclusive that often sells for well under half of this article's budget. It has WiFi and Bluetooth through the Pit Boss app, two included meat probes and a 21-pound hopper. Its flame broiler lever slides open so you can sear over direct flame. Owners like the price and the cooking space, though fit and finish aren't as refined as pricier grills.

Best for: Beginners who want a no-fuss smoker from a big brand

The Pro 22 has been around for years, and that's the point. It's a basic, dependable pellet smoker with an 18-pound hopper, a digital controller and a wired meat probe. It doesn't have app control, but it frequently goes on sale, which makes it one of the cheapest ways into the Traeger lineup. Reviewers often call it reliable and easy to learn on.

Best for: Small households and hot-and-fast grillers

The Bullseye Deluxe 2.0 is a compact kettle-style pellet grill built from 304 stainless steel. Recteq lists a range from 200°F all the way up to 1,000°F, so it can smoke wings one day and sear steaks the next. It has WiFi app control, an 18-pound hopper and a PID controller. The cooking area is small, so it's not the pick for big parties.