For both newbies or seasoned pros, an outdoor grill allows you to make a series of sumptuous meals for a delightful backyard event. However, there are a plethora of options from different brands, which makes choosing the right pellet grill for your grilling needs challenging.
One of the prestigious brands out there is Camp Chef, and they offer several lines of products like STX, SE, DLX, and many more, which often leave consumers confused. Its extensive grill collection makes the decision process a bit daunting.
Therefore, we’ve reviewed the top 7 best Camp Chef Pellet Grills and discussed the key factors to consider when shopping for an outdoor grilling machine.
Table of Contents
Types of Camp Chef Grills & Smokers
Camp Chef has an extensive collection of grills and smokers, so it’s really up to you to determine the kind of machine that serves your purpose best. If you intend to cook for larger gatherings, you should opt for a more apt grill or smoker.
It would be best if you considered pellet smokers and grills for fast cooking or slow cooking on the product.
Pellet Smokers
As the name implies, the pellet smokers run on wood pellets, which are basically hardwood sawdust packed down to form pellets. They are excellent at maintaining a consistent temperature, making them suitable for grilling, baking, and smoking.
Pellet smokers are equipped with digital controllers to keep the cooking temperature and smoke level constant based on your preference. Most Camp Chef models feature an automatic auger pellet feed control to forestall irregularities in the cooking temp.
If a pellet smoker is what you want, you should consider the STX and SE, DLX (Propane and Pellet Smoker, and the Woodwind Series.
Flat-Top Grills
Basically, the flat-top grills are made up of griddles and stoves to allow all sorts of searing, stir-frying, and burger patties grilling. With the flat-top grill, you get endless cooking possibilities – these products can be used to make pancakes.
The griddles’ cooking area can offer scorching heat levels without any cold or hot spots for even cooking and perfect results. They are available in different size options. The surface is usually non-stick for a quick food release and convenient cleanup.
Smoke Vaults
Smoke vaults are massive closed containers to smoke meat and prepare foods such as smokers’ briskets. They are better than the average stove and perfect for sealing in the meat’s natural flavor. Even better, they double nicely as a kitchen oven to bake crisp and brown foods without infusing the smoky flavor.
Stoves
These are a go-to for many people since it’s suitable for a wide range of cooking tasks. In short, this all-purpose gas stoves will handle just about anything thrown at them.
Camp Chef Pellet Grill and Smoker
Top 7 Best Camp Chef Pellet Grills to Buy on Amazon
#1. Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill w/New PID Gen 2 Digital Controller
Product info:
- Cooking Surface: 570 sq. in.
- Capacity: 18 lbs
- Dimensions: 45 x 21 x 51 inches
- Weight: 127 pounds
Topping our list is the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill with its latest PID Gen 2 Digital Controller to make this beast user-friendly. Also, it comes with a patented ash can and a hopper cleanout system for a stress-free grilling experience.
Another thing included for ease of use is the auto-ignition system that delivers reliable startup any time. This gets rid of the need and hassle of using a lighter to get the machine fired up. This model features 141 sq inches of upper rack grilling space and a whopping 429 sq inches of the lower shelf, which sums up a massive 570 sq inches of cooking space. This ample space for grilling offers enough room to cook a meal for a hungry crowd.
Furthermore, this model comes with an 18-pound pellet hopper cavity for a long smoking session to reduce your chances of refilling. The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill offers a wide temperature range from 160 degrees F up to 500 degrees F. On top of that, it has a temperature control system to allow users to choose the best smoking temperature without a fuss.
Furthermore, it comes with a Cool-Down mode to keep your food warm for a longer period. Even better, it comes with a dual-LED temp readout system for easy access to the food’s internal and cooking conditions for better precision.
Things We Like:
- Easy to clean
- Stainless steel construction
- Auto electronic ignition system
- Excellent grease management system
- Three years manufacturer warranty
Things We Dislike:
- Temperature can be challenging to be maintained
#2. Camp Chef PG24MZG SmokePro Slide Smoker
Product info:
- Material: Steel
- Dimensions: 40.5 x 25 x 22 inches
- Weight: 144.7 Pounds
- Fuel Type: Wood
The Camp Chef PG24MZG SmokePro Slide Smoker is a bit pricey, but considering its extra-large 811 sq inches cooking capacity and other hallmarks, – this unit offers good value for money. This smoker is equipped with an intelligent Digital control system to maintain the smoking temperature within 25 degrees F for more precision.
Furthermore, its stainless steel construction guarantees extreme durability, which makes it one of the sturdiest Camp Chef pellet grills to splurge on. Like our top choice, this model comes with a similar ash cleanout system for a mess-free smoking experience.
With its digital controls, this model is great for BBQ, braising, roasting, baking, smoking, and grilling with an authentic wood-fired flavor. Plus, the included meat probe comes in handy to keep a closer eye on the entire smoking process.
One of the downsides of this smoker is its arguably challenging assembly process. Putting the parts together might have been easier if all the washers and bots aligned with the respective designated places. This means you’ll have to figure it out on your own, as the customer service team might not be helpful.
In addition, the PID controller does not feature the WiFi function, which would have been nice to have. Plus, the wheels are not as sturdy and reliable as the other parts of the smoker.
Things We Like:
- Extra-wide grilling space
- Reliable startup
- Hopper and Ash cleanout system
- Two stainless steel meat probes
Things We Dislike:
- Assembly can be confusing
- On the pricey side
- Flimsy wheels
#3. Camp Chef 24 in. WIFI Woodwind Pellet Grill & Smoker
Product info:
- Cooking Surface: 1236 sq. in.
- Capacity: 22 LBS
- Dimensions: 30 x 48 x 49 inches
- Weight: 162 Pounds
The Camp Chef 24 in. WIFI Woodwind Pellet Grill & Smoker is a top choice for geeky grillers. This model is equipped with a Bluetooth & WiFi PID controller. It has a digital LED display to read out the cooking temperature for great precision cooking.
With the integrated PID controller, users can easily control the smoke level and temperature without a hassle. This way, you can enjoy total control over the smoke flavor, so it’s not too overwhelming. This unit can easily be operated and monitored from your smart device via WiFi or Bluetooth to ensure you don’t have to babysit this beast. Besides, this feature makes controlling the pellet grill effortless.
That’s not all: this machine comes with a sear box to deliver extreme temperatures up to 900 degrees F and get those lovely grill marks. Further, it has a whopping 25,000 BTU heat capacity and a 160 – 500 degrees F temperature range to allow slow smoking or grilling.
Things We Like:
- WiFi and Bluetooth PID controller
- 160 – 500 degrees F temperature range
- 4 meat probes and ports
- Heat capacity up to 25,000 BTUs
Things We Dislike:
- Not suitable for a small-sized family
#4. Camp Chef SmokePro SG
Product info:
- Dimensions: 30 x 48 x 49 inches
- Weight: 141.7 pounds
- Fuel Type: Electric
Earning a spot on our list of the best camp chef pellet grills is the SmokePro SG with 811 sq inches grilling capacity. This beast is capable of handling anything thrown at it. It’s a perfect choice for your smoked turkey/chicken recipe, large pork butt cuts, and full racks of ribs.
This machine comes with a 22 pounds hopper capacity to allow you to hold enough pellets for a long smoking hour. Also, it reduces the number of times you have to refill the hopper. It has a dual-meat probe to allow users to monitor the internal meat temperature easily and cooking temp.
Despite the size of these probes, they are amazingly accurate. While the manufacturer does not specify this model’s temperature range, the Camp Chef SmokePro SG delivers high temperatures for most functions. Sadly, this grilling machine does not offer a pronounced smoke flavor regardless of the pellet type used.
More so, the Camp Chef SmokePro SG works well with a sear box to achieve extreme temperature while leaving those distinctive gear marks.
Things We Like:
- Large hopper capacity
- Precise smoking temperature control
- Easy to clean
- Bluetooth and WiFI connectivity
Things We Dislike:
- Challenging to assembly
- Mild smoke flavor
#5. Camp Chef 36 in. WIFI SmokePro SGX Pellet Grill & Smoker
Product info:
- Dimensions: 30 x 48 x 49 inches
- Weight: 183 Pounds
- Fuel Type: Wood
Last on the list is a luxury option with 700 Cu. Inches oven capacity and up to 1236 sq inches smoking capacity. The Camp Chef 36 in. WIFI SmokePro SGX Pellet Grill & Smoker can roast two turkeys at a time. Hence it’s a suitable choice for a large family.
Like most models on this list, this smoker comes with dual probes to measure and display the internal food temperature and cooking temperature for precise smoking. On this beast, you are getting more – as it comes with a dual-LED readout display making it overly user-friendly.
What’s more, the Camp Chef 36 in. WIFI SmokePro SGX is equipped with an automatic ignition system for a reliable and quick startup at all times. Plus, its 22-pound pellet hopper holds enough pellets for a long grilling session.
That’s not all: it comes with an automatic cleanout feature for an easy cleaning experience. Its adjustable chimney is another hallmark of the Camp Chef to choose your preferred smoke flavor intensity. This model is a bit bulky, but it rests on four wheels for maneuverability.
The Camp Chef 36 in. WIFI SmokePro SGX sports a Bluetooth and WiFi PID controller, which helps keep the cooking temperature constant throughout your smoking session. On the downside, this display becomes erratic at higher temperatures about 400 degrees F.
Things We Like:
- Large cooking capacity
- Four-wheel for easy transport
- Adjustable chimney design
- Easy to clean
Things We Dislike:
- On the bulky side
- Readings are not reliable above 400 degrees F.
#6. Camp Chef SmokePro XT Wood Pellet Grill Smoker
Product info:
- Dimensions: 40 x 25 x 22 inches
- Weight: 132.7 pounds
- Fuel Type: Wood
The SmokePro XT Wood Pellet Grill Smoker is arguably the best camp chef pellet smoker for people looking for a mid-level machine. This product sports a couple of upgrades, features, and extra cooking space. Compared to the SE and STX models, this grilling machine has a larger grilling space and comes with a warming rack. Thus, making it a go-to for handling large summertime parties and family gatherings.
This mid-tier grill offers a decent balance between functionality and price with an outstanding performance. Surprisingly, the manufacturer has incorporated several upgrades without hiking the price.
Down to the details, this machine comes with an overall cooking space of 570 sq. in., which is much more than what most entry-level options offer. This isn’t the only reason why Camp Chef SmokePro XT Wood Pellet Grill Smoker is a mid-tier cooking beast.
This product includes a warming rack to keep your veggies, rolls, and bread. It also ensures your barbeque stays warm until you are ready to serve. Courtesy of its intelligent temperature control system, including an internal temperature probe and precise meat probe, Camp Chef SmokePro XT Wood Pellet Grill Smoker cooks with great precision.
On top of that, this model features a digital readout that displays the cooking and food’s internal temperature, which gets rid of the need to open the lid and ensures the smoke and heat remain trapped for perfect results.
Things We Like:
- 25,000 BTU heat capacity
- innovative smoke technology to minimize temperature swings
- Large cooking capacity
- Simple Ash-Cleanout System
Things We Dislike:
- Works better at temperatures above 250 degrees F
#7. Camp Chef PG24XT Smoke Pro Pellet BBQ
Product info:
- Dimensions: 40.5 x 25 x 22 inches
- Weight: 133 Pounds
- Fuel Type: Wood
This machine earns a spot on our list with its automatic auger feed pellets and intelligent digital temperature control that maintains the heat and delivers the right amount of smoke. Plus, you don’t have to babysit this beast.
On this pellet grill, you get endless cooking possibilities: BBQ, braise, roast, bake, smoke, and grill with an exclusive wood-fired flavor. Camp Chef PG24XT Smoke Pro Pellet Grill offers a decent temp range from 160 – 500 degrees F.
On top of that, this model comes with a meat probe to allow users to keep track of the internal temperature and set the smoking temperature by merely pushing a button. Furthermore, it’s equipped with a patented ash cleanout setup for a convenient cleaning experience. With this exclusive system, there’s no need to spend time cleaning up the machine and have more time to enjoy your delectable food.
Camp Chef PG24XT Smoke Pro Pellet BBQ is easy to assemble, thanks to the step-by-step assembly video we found on the brand’s official website. It only took a couple of minutes for us to get this pellet grill ready to cook. Its wide 570 sq in cooking space was enough to grill a whole chicken, hamburgers, ribs, brisket, and more.
Things We Like:
- Simple Ash-Cleanout System
- Blue LED digital temperature display
- Digital controller for steady temperature level
- Wide temperature range
Things We Dislike:
- Temperature control could be a lot better
Things to Consider When Shopping for the Best Camp Chef Pellet Grills
Size
Before purchasing an outdoor grill, you should consider the space available and ensure the device can fit into it. If you have a small patio space, it’s best to consider compact models to squeeze into the space without looking clumsy or overcrowded.
For people looking to enjoy an outdoor grilling experience, any of the Camp Chef’s models reviewed in this post. While portable grills are perfect for cooking a small family-sized meal, they won’t help roast brisket or turkey. With a pellet smoker, you want to go for products with a vast smoking space.
Hopper Capacity
A hopper holds the pellets as you grill. Most pellet grills from this brand come with a sizable 22lbs capacity to hold enough pellets for long smoking sessions. Also, it gets rid of the hassle of having to refill the hopper every couple of minutes.
Extra Features
By now, you should have figured out that some models come with Bluetooth and WiFi PID controllers to allow users to conveniently monitor and control the grill from anywhere on their smartphone. Features such as this are integrated into the devices to increase productivity.
Another bell and whistle to Consider is the Slide ‘n’ Grill technology that allows you to cook over direct flame. This feature transforms your pellet grill into a high-performance pellet smoker.
Accessories
Some products come with extra tools to enhance your overall experience with the machine. The SmokePro SGX has two meat probes, while the Woodwind version is packed with two more meat probes. These extra accessories guarantee great value for your money and a better experience.
Maintenance
The Camp Chef products come with the patented Ash Kickin ash cleanout system to make cleanup afterward a breeze. The feature eliminates the need to vacuum the ashes and use pellets. So, if you hate to spend extra hours cleaning the grill, it’s best to consider this feature.
Thinking of Buying a Pellet Grill? Watch This Comparison Firs
FAQs:
Is it necessary to empty out the ashes immediately?
While it’s not mandatory to do this immediately, it’s important to empty out the ashes after the grilling session to prevent flameout and temperature swings.
Do I need to load pellets whenever I intend to use the grill?
Either you want to smoke your food or not, this type of grill runs on pellets. Hence, you need to load the hopper to power the device. However, you can choose your preferred pellet, such as hickory or apple, for a sweet, unique flavor.
Can I use my camp chef pellet indoors?
Most of the products from this brand are approved for outdoor purposes only.
Conclusion
We’ve come to the end of the review. Now, it’s up to you to make a choice depending on your smoking needs. We strongly recommend considering a model with additional features to increase your chances of a satisfactory outdoor smoking experience. Regardless of your option, we are confident that any of the best Camp Chef pellet grills are reviewed on this list.
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