Most people assume that bigger grills always produce better food, but the reality is that oversized units often struggle with heat efficiency during smaller meals. I have spent significant time analyzing the Navigator Series and comparing the feedback from actual owners to see which models truly justify their footprint. After reviewing the specs and user sentiment, I have ranked these five models to help you find your ideal setup without the guesswork.
1. Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, Flame Broiler and LCD Digital Controller, 932-Sq. In. Cook Space, 180°F to 500°F Temp Range, Meat Probe, 30 lb. Hopper
This grill earns the top spot because it hits the perfect middle ground between cooking capacity and temperature management. I find that its 932 square inches of space is plenty for most families, while the 30 lb hopper ensures you are not constantly refilling pellets during a long smoke.
In my view, the inclusion of both WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity makes this the most versatile option for home cooks. It provides the right amount of control without the complexity of the larger, more expensive units in the lineup.
Buyers frequently appreciate the balance of the 932-square-inch cooking area.
The 30 lb hopper is often cited as a reliable size for overnight brisket cooks.
Users value the consistent temperature range for both searing and low-and-slow smoking.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Pit Boss 1300 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, Flame Broiler and Touchscreen Controller, 1,329-Sq. In. Cook Space, 180°F to 500°F Temp Range, Meat Probe, 30 lb. Hopper
If you are the type of person who hosts large backyard gatherings or enjoys meal prepping for the entire week, this model is specifically built for your needs. The massive 1,329 square inches of cooking surface allows you to fit multiple large cuts of meat or full racks of ribs without crowding the grates.
I appreciate that the manufacturer kept the 30 lb hopper size consistent here, as it balances the larger footprint. It is a beast of a machine, though you should verify that you have enough patio space to accommodate the expanded cabinet design.
Large families often highlight the convenience of the massive cooking surface.
The touchscreen controller is a common favorite for its modern interface.
Owners often point out that the unit is heavy and requires a dedicated, permanent spot.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Pit Boss Navigator 3-Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet Vertical Smoker with LCD Digital Controller, 1,118-Sq. In. 5-Rack Cooking Space, 130°F to 420°F Temp Range, Meat Probe, 50 lb. Pellet Hopper
It is unusual to see a vertical smoker that includes a 50 lb hopper, but this feature is exactly what makes the 3-Series stand out for anyone just starting their smoking journey. Having that much fuel capacity means you can walk away for hours, which removes the intimidation factor that often keeps beginners away from traditional offset smokers.
I think the vertical design is brilliant because it prioritizes smoke density over direct grilling. Because it is optimized for low temperatures, it produces an authentic flavor profile that is hard to replicate on a standard grill.
Beginners often praise the simple setup and consistent heat circulation.
The 50 lb hopper is frequently noted as a major time-saver for long cooks.
Many users enjoy the vertical layout for maximizing space with multiple racks.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Pit Boss Navigator 6-Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet Vertical Smoker with LCD Digital Controller, 2,224-Sq. In. 5-Rack Cooking Space, 130°F to 420°F TempRange, Meat Probe, 75 lb. Pellet Hopper
The most common complaint I see regarding this unit is its sheer size, which can be difficult to manage if you do not have a dedicated catering business or a very large outdoor kitchen. However, if your goal is volume, this is the only logical choice because it offers a staggering 2,224 square inches of capacity.
I see this as a specialized tool rather than an everyday grill. It is remarkably efficient at keeping a steady temperature for massive amounts of food, making it my top suggestion for anyone who frequently cooks for crowds.
Users commonly mention that the rack spacing is ideal for full-size foil pans.
The 75 lb hopper is a standout feature for those who need long, unattended cook times.
Buyers often caution that the unit requires a significant amount of vertical storage space.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Pit BOSS 1600 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, Flame Broiler and Touchscreen Controller, 1,593-Sq. in. Cook Space, 180°F to 500°F Temp Range, Meat Probe, 30 lb. Hopper
When you compare this to the 1300 Navigator, you will notice a significant jump in raw surface area while maintaining the same core technology and touchscreen controller. I would only recommend this upgrade if you have consistently found yourself running out of room on the 1300 model, as the footprint is quite extensive.
It offers a high-end experience for those who do not want to sacrifice any capacity for their weekend feasts. It is essentially the luxury sedan of the Navigator lineup, providing a refined cooking experience for the dedicated pitmaster.
High-volume cooks often prefer this model for its massive 1,593-square-inch capacity.
Owners frequently note that the controller interface is highly responsive.
The build quality is a common point of praise for users upgrading from smaller units.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Choosing Between Them
For the vast majority of readers, I recommend the Pit Boss 850 Navigator because it offers the best overall value and efficiency for regular use. If you have specific needs, the 3-Series Vertical Smoker is perfect for novices, the 1300 Navigator serves the large-family crowd, the 6-Series Vertical works best for catering, and the 1600 Navigator is the right choice if you strictly demand the largest cooking surface available.
Regardless of which model you choose, remember that pellet grills require consistent cleaning to function at their best. You must keep the fire pot clear of ash and wipe down your grease trays to ensure your smoking sessions remain safe and effective.
As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Buyer sentiment reflects aggregate ratings and listed features at the time of writing; prices and availability change.
