Have you ever wondered what sets the top-notch pellet grills apart from the rest? Well, one key feature to look out for is the PID controller. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at some of the best pellet grills equipped with PID controllers, so you can get perfectly cooked meats every time without breaking a sweat (or a rib).
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Which Pellet Grills Have a PID Controller?
- Traeger Grills Pro Series 575
- Traeger Grills Pro Series 780
- Camp Chef SmokePro DLX
- Weber SmokeFire EX4
- Z Grills 550B
- Green Mountain Trek
Pellet Grills with a PID Controller Reviewed
If you have ever experienced temperature fluctuations when trying to grill outdoors, then you may welcome technology that can prevent this from happening. When looking for the best pellet grill for your outdoor cooking sessions, one with a PID controller can help you maintain the temperature to get the best cook.
One of the most common questions that are asked by those who are actively looking for a new pellet grill is which ones come equipped with the PID controller technology. While there are many on the market to choose from, the choices can get somewhat confusing.
If you are wondering which pellet grills come equipped with a PID controller, keep reading below.
Traeger Grills Pro Series 575
Dimensions: 41” x 27” x 53”
Weight: 124 lbs
Hopper Capacity: 18 lbs
Cooking Space: 575 square inches
Temperature Range: 180℉-500℉
Most people know Traeger Grills to be one of the leading brands in all things concerning outdoor cooking. Because of this, Traeger is known to use a PID controller along with other advanced technology in their pellet grills.
Along with the ability to control the temperature of the pellet grill throughout the cooking process, the Pro Series 575 model also comes equipped with TurboTemp technology. This means that the grill will reach the desired temperature within minutes so you don’t have to wait long to start grilling.
Additionally, the 575 comes with WiFi connectivity which means that you can control the various functions of the pellet grill without having to be in front of it the entire time. Whether you want to ensure that the temperature is holding, or want to make adjustments, you can do so from your phone from anywhere.
With the PID controller, you can have peace of mind that the temperature you set your grill on will stay within 5 degrees of it. This is because the PID makes adjustments along the way to account for any temperature fluctuations.
Overall, the Traeger Pro 575 is a great choice for those who want a pellet grill with advanced technology without breaking the bank. This is because while it is more expensive than some brands, it is still decently priced for most people’s budgets.
Traeger Grills Pro Series 780
Dimensions: 27” x 49” x 55”
Weight: 173 lbs
Hopper Capacity: 18 lbs
Cooking Space: 780 square inches
Temperature Range: 180℉-500℉
Similar to the Pro Series 575, the Traeger Grills Pro Series 780 takes what you may like about the smaller version and expands it for more cooking space. This means that you not only get a pellet grill with a PID controller but also about 200 more square inches of cooking space.
Also, like the smaller version, you can use the WiFi connectivity to ensure that your grill is doing what it should be from wherever you are. This is because once you download the app on your phone, you can tune into what your grill is doing every step of the way.
Since it comes with the PID controller, you can rest assured that the temperature will stay steady throughout the entire cooking process. This is because the PID monitors the temperature and makes various adjustments along the way when needed.
It may be important to note that the Pro Series 780 model is a pellet grill that operates from electricity and wood pellets. This means that you need to position your grill near an electrical outlet for it to work properly.
Overall, while this version of the Traeger Pro Series is more on the expensive side, you will not be disappointed in the functionality. Due to the PID controller and other advanced features, this pellet grill may be the perfect choice for your outdoor grilling needs.
Camp Chef SmokePro DLX
Dimensions: 56” x 24.5” x 49”
Weight: 105 lbs
Hopper Capacity: 18 lbs
Cooking Space: 573 square inches
Temperature Range: 160℉-500℉
Camp Chef is another name in the outdoor cooking industry that has built up a reputation for developing quality products. Because of the various features and advanced technology they incorporate into every grill, you can guarantee that you are getting the best pellet grill on the market.
One of the first things people notice about the SmokePro DLX model is the stainless steel construction and various accessories that make this grill stand out from others. From the attached side shelf to the magnetic hopper lid, Camp Chef manufacturers thought of everything with this pellet grill.
Since it has a PID controller, you can guarantee that the temperature you desire will be maintained throughout the entire cooking process. The PID controller on this model is said to at least keep the temperature within 10 degrees of your desired temperature.
It may be important to note that the PID controller on this model is said to be a second-generation model. This means that the PID is even more precise than the models of the controller in the past at maintaining the temperature.
Overall, if you are looking for a pellet grill with a PID controller but want to save money, the Camp Chef SmokePro may be the perfect choice for you. This is because while you can save money with this model, you will still be getting a quality product.
Weber SmokeFire EX4
Dimensions: 33” x 43” x 47”
Weight: 176 lbs
Hopper Capacity: 22 lbs
Cooking Space: 672 square inches
Temperature Range: 200℉-600℉
When it comes to top names in the grilling industry, most people know that Weber has not only been around for generations but also typically develops high-quality products. The SmokeFire EX4 is one of the models that Weber has created to compete with other pellet grills on the market today.
Some of the best features of the SmokeFire EX4 is that it comes equipped with some of the best technology on the market. This includes the ability to control your grill from your phone from anywhere using the Weber Connect App through WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity.
With the smart technology features, Weber makes it easy for you to not only keep an eye on the temperature but also make any adjustments you need. Additionally, you also have access to the SmokeBoost setting, which allows you to increase the amount of smoke coming through the pellet grill.
With the PID controller and these other advanced technologies, you can be sure that you are getting the best features in this pellet grill. The PID controller does its job of maintaining your desired temperature throughout the entire cooking process.
At the end of the day, if you are interested in a top-of-the-line grill that features a PID controller, then this Weber SmokFire EX4 model may be the one for you. Although the price is more expensive than other pellet grills, you will know that you are getting a unit from a trusted name in the grilling industry.
Z Grills 550B
Dimensions: 47” x 20” x 45”
Weight: 84 lbs
Hopper Capacity: 10 lbs
Cooking Space: 553 square inches
Temperature Range: 180℉-450℉
Z Grills is another manufacturer that has been making a name for itself in the outdoor grilling industry for many years. With the various models of grills they have developed, and the quality construction they are known for, you can guarantee that you are getting a great grill.
This is no different from the Z Grills 550B pellet grill, which comes equipped with some of the best technology you could ask for. Even though it is a smaller model than some of the other pellet grills featured in this article, it will still provide you with everything you need.
This model is said to be equipped with a PID controller that is more advanced than most and can handle keeping the desired temperature steady throughout the cooking process. This is especially useful when the outdoor temperatures drop during colder months.
Since the PID controller helps to maintain the temperature by using the sensor to make adjustments along the way, you do not have to worry about your food cooking unevenly. The PID controller will work to make sure that the temperature stays within 5 degrees of the original temperature even if you open and close the door often.
Overall, this model may be the best choice for those who want advanced technology without the higher price of some models. With the versatility it provides with the ability to not only grill but also roast, bake, sear, smoke, and more, you may be getting more than you bargained for.
Related >> Z Grills: Which is Best? (Complete Guide)
Green Mountain Trek
Dimensions: 16” x 32” x 24”
Weight: 63 lbs
Hopper Capacity: 9 lbs
Cooking Space: 219 square inches
Temperature Range: up to 500℉
If you have ever heard of the Green Mountain Trek pellet grill, then you know that this model is known to be one of the best tabletop units on the market today. With the backing of a manufacturer that is known to be one of the top brands in the outdoor grill industry, you know you are getting a quality product.
An important note about this grill is that it is much smaller than other pellet grills mentioned since it is designed to be put on a table for better portability. This means that you may not be able to cook as much since it has a smaller overall cooking space.
Like some of the other models mentioned above, the Green Mountain Trek is equipped with a PID controller that is operated through WiFi connectivity. This means that you do not have to hover over the grill to ensure that the temperature is maintained.
One feature many grillers who have used this model like is the external accessibility of the pellet hopper. Because you do not need to open the lid of the grill to add in wood pellets, you can further maintain the cooking temperature of the grill.
The bottom line when it comes to the Green Mountain Trek is that you will be getting a high-quality product that is equipped with advanced technology such as the PID controller. This means that you will not need to worry about temperature fluctuations throughout your cooking experience.
What is a PID Controller?
PID, or Proportional, Integral, and Derivative Controller, means it is a device that assists in controlling the overall temperature of the pellet grill. This type of controller is designed to reduce temperature fluctuations to keep the inside of the grill at a constant temperature.
By making necessary adjustments to the auger and fan speed, a PID controller maintains temperatures inside your pellet grill to within about 5 degrees of the actual temperature.
This type of controller is said to be a lifesaver, especially during colder months when the outside temperature can affect the grill temperature. The PID controller, however, can account for this and make adjustments accordingly to prevent temperature loss.
How do PID Controllers Affect Smoke?
One factor you should keep in mind when it comes to choosing a pellet grill with a PID controller is how it will affect the overall smoke during a cooking session. For the most part, since the PID controller is designed to make adjustments to keep the temperatures steady, it can affect the smoke output.
Many experts say that having a PID controller can reduce the amount of smoke that the pellet grill produces. This is because the design of the controller is to make various adjustments to the auger and fan speed, which, in turn, can directly affect the smoke that is produced.
It is suggested that if you are looking for a pellet grill with a PID controller, you also find one that has a specific setting that will allow for more smoke. Several pellet grills on the market today, come with both the option to have the PID controller and an added smoke feature so you can have the best of both worlds.
What are the Benefits of Having a Pellet Grill with a PID Controller?
When it comes to choosing a pellet grill with a PID controller, you may want to consider the benefits of doing so. Since a PID controller adds to the overall cooking experience, you may want to consider these advantages before purchasing your next pellet grill.
While the majority of pellet grills on the market today have some type of technology that helps with the overall cooking process, a PID controller is considered one of the best. This alone should help you decide which pellet grill you should choose.
Ease of Use
Having a PID controller on your pellet grill adds to the ease of use of the overall unit since it helps to regulate the temperature. This means that you have more freedom to do what you need to do while the grill keeps your food at a constant temperature.
Accurate Cooking Experience
When you set the temperature for your pellet grill with the PID controller, you can guarantee that it will stay maintained within 5 degrees of that temperature. This is because the PID has a sensor that can detect if the temperature is fluctuating in any way and makes adjustments to give you more precision in your cook session.
Better in Inclimate Weather Conditions
One problem many outdoor cooks complain about is how inclement weather can affect the temperature of their pellet grill. But, with a PID controller, this problem is taken away since the device is designed to make adjustments to keep the temperature steady.
Provides a Great Flavor Profile
Since the temperature stays steady, you can guarantee that your food is cooked to perfection every time. This means that you will always have the most accurate flavor profile that you were looking for.
