Smart grills use WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity, digital temperature control, and meat probes to take the guesswork out of outdoor cooking, and the gap between a good one and a great one comes down to how well the technology actually improves your results. The Ninja Woodfire ProConnect Premium XL earns my best overall pick for blending app control, real wood-fired flavor, and genuine grill-and-smoker versatility in one package. If you want the deepest set of connected features, the Brisk It Zelos-450 brings A.I.-assisted cooking that adjusts itself as you go, while the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 is the strongest choice for charcoal lovers who still want set-it-and-forget-it control. The main tradeoffs in this category are fuel type (pellet, charcoal, gas, or electric), indoor versus outdoor use, and whether the smart features genuinely help or just add an app you’ll stop opening. Read on for the full breakdown of all thirteen models.
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Key Takeaways
- Ninja dominates the indoor smart grill space with three entries (FG551, LG451, DG551), but the differences between them come down to capacity, thermometer integration, and air frying range — not core grilling performance.
- The true smart-grilling leaders here are the Ninja Woodfire ProConnect Premium XL and Brisk It Zelos-450, because their apps and probes actively manage cooking, while gas models like the Monument Denali 605Pro offer connectivity mainly for monitoring.
- Charcoal purists no longer have to choose between tradition and convenience: the Masterbuilt Gravity Series and Weber Performer both digitize charcoal management, though the Gravity Series automates far more of the process.
- Indoor smart grills sacrifice smoky depth for year-round convenience — the Breville BGR820XL and Ninja Foodi line can’t replicate outdoor flavor, but they outperform outdoor models for apartments and winter cooking.
- Pellet grills offer the best overall smart experience for low-and-slow cooking (recteq RT-1600, Pit Boss 850 Navigator), but they demand electricity, occasional auger maintenance, and a bigger footprint than most buyers expect.
| Ninja Woodfire ProConnect Premium XL Outdoor Grill & Smoker |  | Best Compact Smart Grill | Functions: 7-in-1: Grill, BBQ Smoke, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate | Cooking Capacity: 180 sq in (2 racks of ribs, 10 burgers, or 10-lb brisket) | Power Source: Electric with real wood pellets for flavor | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ninja FlexFlame ProConnect 5-in-1 Grill & Smoker (PG305) |  | Best Hybrid Smart Grill | Model: PG305 | Cooking Functions: 5-in-1: Grill, Smoke, Roast, Griddle, Pizza | Temperature Range: 200°F to 600°F | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer (FG551) |  | Best Indoor Smart Grill for Families | Capacity: 4 qt; XL grate fits 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs | Functions: 6-in-1: Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate | Max Temperature: 500°F cyclonic grilling | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill |  | Best Indoor Contact Grill | Power: 1800 watts | Voltage: 110-120 volts | Cooking Surface: 260 square inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Digital Charcoal Grill, Griddle, and Smoker |  | Best Large-Format Smart Charcoal Grill | Model: MB20040221 | Cooking Area: 800 square inches | Fuel Capacity: 10 lbs lump charcoal or 16 lbs briquettes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ninja Foodi Smart 5-in-1 Indoor Grill & 4-qt Air Fryer, Black (LG451BK) |  | Best Compact Indoor Smart Grill | Brand: Ninja | Model: LG451BK | Functions: Grill, Air Crisp, Bake, Roast, Dehydrate | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| recteq RT-1600 Flagship Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker |  | Best Premium Pellet Grill | Brand: recteq | Model: RT-1600FS | Cooking Space: 1667 sq. in. | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Grill |  | Best Smart Charcoal Purist Pick | Fuel Type: Charcoal | Cooking Grate Diameter: 22 inches | Temperature Control: LCD Wi-Fi-enabled controller and digital fan | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 Digital Charcoal Grill Smoker Combo with Cover Bundle |  | Best Value Smart Charcoal Combo | Heating Time: 225°F in 10 minutes; 700°F in 15 minutes | Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth | Temperature Control: Digital control panel with DigitalFan | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker |  | Best Mid-Size Pellet Value | Cooking Space: 932 sq. in. | Temperature Range: 180°F to 500°F | Hopper Capacity: 30 lbs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Monument Grills Denali 605Pro 6+1-Burner Smart Propane Gas Grill |  | Best for High-Volume Entertaining | Fuel type: Liquid propane | Main burners: 6 ThermaSear burners | Side burners: 1 ceramic sear burner | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer with Thermometer (DG551) |  | Best Smart Indoor Option | Model: DG551 | Cooking functions: Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate | Max temperature: 500°F | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brisk It Zelos-450 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker with WiFi and A.I. Technology |  | Smartest Pick for Beginners | Cooking area: 450 sq. in. | Temperature range: 180°F – 500°F | Fuel type: 100% natural wood pellets | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| smart grill | Connectivity |
|---|---|
| Ninja Woodfire ProConnect Prem | Ninja ProConnect app |
| Ninja FlexFlame ProConnect 5-i | Ninja ProConnect app (Wi-Fi) |
| Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 In | — |
| Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill | — |
| Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth |
| Ninja Foodi Smart 5-in-1 Indoo | — |
| recteq RT-1600 Flagship Wood P | Wi-Fi via recteq app |
| Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth |
| Masterbuilt Gravity Series 105 | WiFi, Bluetooth |
| Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series | WiFi and Bluetooth |
| Monument Grills Denali 605Pro | — |
| Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 In | — |
| Brisk It Zelos-450 Wood Pellet | WiFi with A.I. natural language control |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Woodfire ProConnect Premium XL Outdoor Grill & Smoker
This model stands out as the most space-efficient way to get real woodfire flavor with app control. Unlike the full-sized Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800, which demands serious patio real estate, the ProConnect Premium XL works on a balcony, RV, or small deck while still fitting two racks of ribs or a 10-lb brisket on its 180 square inches. The 7-in-1 function set — including air frying and dehydrating — replaces several appliances at once, and the ProConnect app handles remote temperature monitoring so you don’t have to babysit the cook. The tradeoff is scale: compared with the Ninja FlexFlame ProConnect’s 424 square inches, this grills for four, not fourteen. Pellets are an ongoing expense, and the electrical requirement rules out off-grid use. This pick makes the most sense for small-space cooks who want smoky results without a pellet-grill commitment.
Pros:- 7-in-1 versatility replaces multiple outdoor cooking appliances
- App-based remote monitoring and notifications eliminate guesswork
- Real woodfire flavor from electricity plus pellets, no open flame
- Weather resistant for year-round outdoor use and storage
Cons:- Requires an electrical outlet, ruling out truly off-grid cooking
- Ongoing wood pellet costs add up over time
- 180 sq in of cooking space limits entertaining capacity
Best for: Apartment and RV dwellers who want woodfire flavor and app control in a compact, weather-resistant footprint
Not ideal for: Hosts cooking for crowds — the 180 sq in capacity is tight for large gatherings
- Functions:7-in-1: Grill, BBQ Smoke, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate
- Cooking Capacity:180 sq in (2 racks of ribs, 10 burgers, or 10-lb brisket)
- Power Source:Electric with real wood pellets for flavor
- Connectivity:Ninja ProConnect app
- Thermometer:Built-in with rare-to-well doneness settings
- Weather Resistance:Year-round outdoor cook and store
- Accessories:Nonstick grate, crisper basket, pellet scoop, starter pellets, grease tray
Our verdict“The smartest choice for small outdoor spaces that still want genuine smoke flavor and full app control.”
Ninja FlexFlame ProConnect 5-in-1 Grill & Smoker (PG305)
Where the Woodfire ProConnect Premium XL is electric-only, the FlexFlame pairs propane heat with electric precision, reaching 600°F in about seven minutes — territory the smaller Ninja can’t touch. That makes it the rare smart grill that can sear hard, smoke low, and bake pizza on one 424-square-inch surface, with the ProConnect app handling monitoring across all of it. Compared with a gas-only option like the Monument Denali 605Pro, you give up raw burner count but gain genuine BBQ smoking and griddle capability. The tradeoffs are real: you need both a 20-lb propane tank and a 3-prong outdoor outlet, and the pizza stone and griddle plates cost extra. The hybrid learning curve is steeper than a basic gas grill, but for cooks who want one connected station doing everything, this is the most flexible mid-size pick here.
Pros:- App-based remote monitoring with real-time temperature readings and alerts
- Precise 200°F to 600°F digital control with fast 7-minute preheat
- Large 424 sq in capacity fits 3 chickens or 14 steaks
- 5-in-1 functionality replaces several dedicated outdoor appliances
Cons:- Needs both electricity and a propane tank, neither included
- Pizza stone and griddle plates are separate purchases
- Hybrid dual-fuel system has a steeper learning curve than a basic gas grill
Best for: Multi-tasking home cooks who want searing, smoking, griddling, and pizza from one app-connected grill
Not ideal for: Buyers wanting a plug-and-play setup — it requires propane plus electricity, with key accessories sold separately
- Model:PG305
- Cooking Functions:5-in-1: Grill, Smoke, Roast, Griddle, Pizza
- Temperature Range:200°F to 600°F
- Cooking Space:424 sq in
- Preheat Time:Up to 600°F in 7 minutes
- Connectivity:Ninja ProConnect app (Wi-Fi)
- Power Requirements:3-prong outdoor cord and 20-lb propane tank (not included)
- Pellet Usage:2 cups for smoking
Our verdict“The most versatile mid-size smart grill here, provided you have propane and power within reach of your patio.”
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill and Air Fryer (FG551)
When outdoor space simply isn’t an option, this model delivers 500°F cyclonic grilling virtually smoke-free indoors, and it does it at a scale most indoor units can’t match — six steaks or 24 hot dogs on the XL grate. Its standout smart feature is the dual-sensor Smart Cook System with four protein presets and nine doneness levels, which removes the judgment call that sinks most indoor grilling attempts. Compared with the Breville Smart Grill, which relies on your own timing and manual plate management, the Foodi’s thermometer automation is the safer bet for inconsistent cooks. It also air fries, roasts, bakes, broils, and dehydrates, giving it broader duty than a grill alone. The catch is footprint: this is a big countertop unit drawing 1760 watts, so it suits a dedicated kitchen zone rather than a cramped apartment counter.
Pros:- Smart dual-sensor thermometer eliminates doneness guesswork
- Smokeless indoor grilling with authentic sear marks
- XL grate handles 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs
- 6-in-1 design doubles as an air fryer and dehydrator
Cons:- Large footprint consumes significant countertop space
- 1760-watt draw is power-intensive on shared circuits
Best for: Families and meal preppers who want reliable, thermometer-guided grilling indoors year-round
Not ideal for: Small kitchens with limited countertop space or older wiring that can’t comfortably handle 1760 watts
- Capacity:4 qt; XL grate fits 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs
- Functions:6-in-1: Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate
- Max Temperature:500°F cyclonic grilling
- Wattage:1760 watts
- Voltage:110 volts
- Smart Features:Smart Cook System, dual-sensor thermometer, 4 protein presets, 9 doneness levels
- Control Method:Touch panel
Our verdict“The best indoor pick for households that want set-and-forget grilling precision without smoke alarms.”
Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill
For cooks who want precision searing rather than multi-function cooking, the Breville takes a different approach than the Ninja Foodi Smart XL. Its 1800W elements are embedded directly in the plates, so heat reaches the food evenly without the hot and cold zones typical of cheaper contact grills, and the open-flat BBQ mode doubles the surface to 260 square inches for pancakes, fish, or vegetables. The LCD preheat indicator and countdown timer are useful, but there’s no food thermometer or app — this is ‘smart’ in the temperature-control sense, not connectivity. Compared with the Ninja, cleanup is the Breville’s edge: the PFOA-free plates pop off and go straight into the dishwasher. The tradeoffs are its sprawled footprint when opened flat and the manual drip trap you have to stay on top of during greasy cooks. This option stands out for grill-focused cooks who value sear quality over gadgetry.
Pros:- Opens flat for a large 260 sq in BBQ and griddle surface
- Embedded 1800W elements deliver consistent high-heat searing
- Removable dishwasher-safe non-stick plates simplify cleanup
- Contact, BBQ, and sandwich modes with LCD timer
Cons:- Very large countertop footprint when opened flat
- Manual drip tray management required during greasy cooking
- No thermometer or app connectivity for automated doneness
Best for: Precision-focused cooks who primarily want high-heat searing and griddling with dishwasher-easy cleanup
Not ideal for: Buyers expecting app connectivity or automated doneness probes — this has neither
- Power:1800 watts
- Voltage:110-120 volts
- Cooking Surface:260 square inches
- Cooking Modes:BBQ (open flat), Contact, Sandwich
- Plates:Removable, dishwasher-safe, PFOA-free non-stick
- Included Components:Ribbed plate, flat plate, drip trap
- Warranty:1 year replacement
- Finish:Brushed stainless steel
Our verdict“A sear-first indoor grill for cooks who care more about plate heat and easy cleanup than smart features.”
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Digital Charcoal Grill, Griddle, and Smoker
This is the pick for buyers who refuse to give up real charcoal flavor but want pellet-grill convenience. The gravity-fed hopper holds up to 16 pounds of briquettes for roughly 10 hours of cooking, while the DigitalFan holds your set temperature automatically — monitored over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth from your phone. With 800 square inches across cast iron grates and a flat-top griddle insert, it out-cooks the Ninja FlexFlame ProConnect by nearly double the surface area, making it the better party machine. Its tradeoff versus the bigger Gravity Series 1050 is capacity, but the 800 keeps the footprint more manageable and comes in at a friendlier size for typical patios. Charcoal management is easier than a traditional kettle like the Weber Performer, though ash cleanup is still your job. This model makes the most sense for serious weekend cooks feeding a crowd.
Pros:- Combines grilling, griddling, smoking, searing, baking, and roasting
- Huge 800 sq in cooking area with cast iron grates and griddle insert
- DigitalFan plus Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for automated temperature control
- 10-lb lump or 16-lb briquette hopper supports long unattended cooks
Cons:- Large footprint requires a spacious patio or yard
- Charcoal ash cleanup is more involved than pellet or gas alternatives
- Griddle insert and grates add weight and storage demands
Best for: Charcoal loyalists feeding crowds who want digital temperature control and remote monitoring without pellets
Not ideal for: Small patios or balcony dwellers — the footprint and hopper demand dedicated outdoor space
- Model:MB20040221
- Cooking Area:800 square inches
- Fuel Capacity:10 lbs lump charcoal or 16 lbs briquettes
- Temperature Control:Digital control panel with DigitalFan
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Cooking Surfaces:Flat-top griddle insert and cast iron grates
- Cooking Time:Up to 10 hours per hopper load
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“The strongest choice for big-batch charcoal cooking with app-connected temperature discipline.”
Ninja Foodi Smart 5-in-1 Indoor Grill & 4-qt Air Fryer, Black (LG451BK)
The Ninja Foodi Smart LG451 is the pick for apartment dwellers and anyone whose grilling season ends when the weather turns. Its 500°F Cyclonic Grilling Technology delivers real char marks without a patio, and the Foodi Smart Thermometer removes guesswork by tracking internal doneness from rare to well done. Compared with the larger Ninja Foodi Smart XL (FG551), this model trades capacity for a smaller footprint — a reasonable swap for couples or solo cooks, but a real limitation for families. The frozen-to-char-grilled in 25 minutes claim matters most for weeknight dinners, since no thawing step is needed. Cleanup is genuinely painless thanks to dishwasher-safe nonstick parts. The tradeoff: it hogs counter space and can’t replicate the smoke flavor of outdoor pellet rigs like the recteq RT-1600.
Pros:- Five functions (grill, air crisp, bake, roast, dehydrate) replace multiple appliances
- Smart thermometer guarantees precise doneness without opening the lid
- Cooks frozen food to char-grilled in 25 minutes for effortless weeknights
- Dishwasher-safe nonstick parts make cleanup fast
Cons:- Large countertop footprint despite modest cooking capacity
- 4-qt air fryer basket is too small for bigger families
- No true smoke flavor compared with outdoor pellet or charcoal options
Best for: Apartment dwellers and busy households who want char-grilled results indoors with minimal babysitting
Not ideal for: Large families or outdoor purists — the 4-qt air fry capacity is tight and there’s no real smoke flavor
- Brand:Ninja
- Model:LG451BK
- Functions:Grill, Air Crisp, Bake, Roast, Dehydrate
- Air Fryer Capacity:4 qt
- Max Grilling Temperature:500°F
- Thermometer:Foodi Smart Thermometer
- Frozen to Char-Grilled Time:25 minutes
- Cleaning:Dishwasher-safe nonstick removable parts
Our verdict“Buy this if you want year-round grilling indoors without doneness guesswork; skip it if you cook for crowds.”
recteq RT-1600 Flagship Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
The recteq RT-1600 is the heavyweight of this roundup — a 1667 sq. in. stainless steel pellet workhorse built for people who host seriously. Its PID controller holds temperatures within 5°F, tighter than the Pit Boss 850 Navigator’s standard LCD control, which matters for long brisket cooks where drift ruins results. The 40 lb hopper running up to 40 hours means overnight smokes don’t require refueling — the Pit Boss’s 30 lb hopper gets close but not equal. Compared with the Weber Performer, the RT-1600 trades charcoal flavor character for set-and-forget consistency and remote control via Wi-Fi. The honest tradeoffs: it demands a serious patio footprint, and pellets are a recurring expense gas grills like the Monument Denali 605Pro avoid. The bumper-to-bumper warranty softens the premium price sting.
Pros:- 1667 sq. in. of cooking space handles whole-hog gatherings
- PID control holds temperature within 5°F for repeatable results
- 40 lb hopper supports up to 40 hours of unattended cooking
- Stainless build with an industry-leading bumper-to-bumper warranty
Cons:- Footprint is too large for small patios or balconies
- Ongoing wood pellet expense exceeds gas or charcoal fuel costs
- Overkill for households that grill only occasionally
Best for: Serial entertainers and low-and-slow smoking enthusiasts who want maximum capacity and precision
Not ideal for: Small-patio or balcony grillers — the footprint is enormous, and pellet costs add up for casual use
- Brand:recteq
- Model:RT-1600FS
- Cooking Space:1667 sq. in.
- Temperature Range:180°F–700°F
- Hopper Capacity:40 lb
- Continuous Cook Time:Up to 40 hours per full hopper
- Temperature Control:PID (within 5°F)
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi via recteq app
- Material:Stainless steel
Our verdict“This is the buy-it-once pellet rig for large gatherings and marathon smokes; smaller households should step down to the Pit Boss 850.”
Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Grill
The Weber Performer 22-Inch answers a specific question: can you keep authentic charcoal flavor without babysitting vents? Its LCD Wi-Fi controller and digital fan automatically hold your target temperature, monitored remotely through the Weber Connect app — a genuine upgrade over a standard kettle, where temperature is a manual negotiation. Compared with the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050, the Weber stays closer to traditional charcoal technique and adds a 280 sq. in. prep table and one-touch ash cleanup, but it sacrifices the Masterbuilt’s 700°F-reaching digital fan system and larger smoker versatility. The Rapidfire Assist startup cuts the worst part of charcoal — the wait. Note that Weber Works accessories are sold separately, so the real cost creeps up. This model suits purists who want technology as an assistant, not a replacement.
Pros:- Digital fan automatically maintains target temperature
- Remote monitoring and control through the Weber Connect app
- Rapidfire Assist startup speeds up charcoal ignition
- Built-in prep table, storage shelf, and one-touch ash cleaning
Cons:- Weber Works accessories are sold separately, adding to real cost
- Smart features depend on the app and a smartphone connection
- Requires manual charcoal handling and ash management
Best for: Charcoal loyalists who want authentic flavor with app-based temperature control and remote monitoring
Not ideal for: Set-and-forget cooks who want push-button convenience — you still handle charcoal, ash, and startup
- Fuel Type:Charcoal
- Cooking Grate Diameter:22 inches
- Temperature Control:LCD Wi-Fi-enabled controller and digital fan
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Included Food Probes:1
- Probe Ports:2
- Side Table Area:280 square inches
- Finish:Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl
Our verdict“The right choice if you refuse to give up charcoal flavor but still want phone-monitored temperature control.”
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 Digital Charcoal Grill Smoker Combo with Cover Bundle
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 bridges charcoal flavor and digital convenience at a friendlier price point than the recteq RT-1600. Its gravity-fed charcoal hopper with DigitalFan control hits 225°F in 10 minutes or 700°F in 15 — genuinely competitive searing territory that most pellet grills, including the Pit Boss 850 Navigator (which tops out at 500°F), simply can’t reach. The WiFi and Bluetooth control lets you adjust cooks from the couch, and the bundled cover with UV protection and a tear-resistant PVC liner means you don’t need to buy protection separately. Tradeoffs are real: charcoal means ash cleanup and more maintenance than the plug-and-play Ninja indoor options, and remote features become useless without a reliable connection. This pick makes the most sense for buyers who want charcoal character without charcoal labor.
Pros:- Reaches 700°F in 15 minutes for real searing power
- WiFi and Bluetooth control from anywhere in range
- DigitalFan maintains precise temperatures without vent fiddling
- Bundled cover with UV protection and tear-resistant liner
Cons:- Charcoal maintenance is heavier than gas or electric alternatives
- Remote features depend on stable WiFi/Bluetooth connectivity
Best for: Budget-minded grillers who want charcoal and smoke flavor with digital, app-controlled precision
Not ideal for: Low-maintenance seekers — ash cleanup and charcoal handling still exceed gas or electric grilling
- Heating Time:225°F in 10 minutes; 700°F in 15 minutes
- Connectivity:WiFi, Bluetooth
- Temperature Control:Digital control panel with DigitalFan
- Fuel Type:Charcoal (gravity-fed)
- Cover Material:Double-stitched with PVC liner and UV additives
- Cover Fit:Adjustable drawstring
Our verdict“The smartest way into charcoal grilling if you want app control and a cover included without paying flagship prices.”
Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
The Pit Boss 850 Navigator occupies the sweet spot between compact pellet grills and the sprawling recteq RT-1600: 932 sq. in. of cooking space is ample for most families without demanding a commercial-size patio. Its flame broiler — a sliding plate exposing direct flame — gives it direct-heat searing the recteq’s design handles differently, and the two included meat probes double what the Weber Performer offers, letting you track a brisket and ribs simultaneously through WiFi or Bluetooth. The 30 lb hopper with a viewing window supports long unattended cooks, and the 5-year warranty adds confidence that rivals recteq’s coverage claim at this price tier. The ceiling is the limitation: 500°F max means it can’t match the Masterbuilt Gravity 1050’s 700°F searing. Pellet costs and the electrical requirement for the auger are ongoing considerations.
Pros:- 932 sq. in. cooking surface feeds a crowd without flagship footprint
- Two included meat probes track multiple proteins at once
- 30 lb hopper with viewing window supports long unattended cooks
- Flame broiler adds direct-flame searing most pellet grills lack
- 5-year warranty backs long-term ownership
Cons:- Requires an electrical outlet for the controller and auger
- Pellet fuel costs more over time than gas
- 500°F maximum temperature limits hard searing
Best for: Families upgrading to pellet grilling who want capacity, dual probes, and flame-broiler searing at a mid-tier price
Not ideal for: High-heat searing enthusiasts or off-grid grillers — 500°F max and the need for electricity limit both
- Cooking Space:932 sq. in.
- Temperature Range:180°F to 500°F
- Hopper Capacity:30 lbs
- Connectivity:WiFi and Bluetooth
- Meat Probes:2 included
- Controller:LCD Digital Controller
- Fuel Type:100% all-natural hardwood pellets
- Heat System:Fan-forced convection
- Warranty:5 years
Our verdict“The best-balanced pellet pick for most families — big enough, connected, and probe-equipped, without the RT-1600’s bulk or price.”
Monument Grills Denali 605Pro 6+1-Burner Smart Propane Gas Grill
This is the big-crowd pick of the roundup, and its 900-square-inch cooking area is what separates it from smart grills like the Brisk It Zelos-450, which holds 15 burgers where the Denali fits 35. The Bluetooth monitoring with dual meat probes gives it genuine smart credentials — readings and alerts land on your phone so you can socialize instead of hovering — though it lacks the AI-driven automatic adjustments that make the Zelos-450 more hands-off. Where this model earns its place is the bundle: rotisserie kit, cordierite pizza stone, cast-iron plate, and cover are all included, so there’s no accessory shopping afterward. Reaching 700°F in 10 minutes makes weeknight grilling realistic despite the size. The tradeoff is fuel rigidity: liquid propane only, so homes plumbed for natural gas should look elsewhere.
Pros:- Huge 900 sq. in. cooking area fits up to 35 burgers at once
- Bluetooth temperature alerts with two included meat probes
- Exceptional accessory bundle: rotisserie kit, pizza stone, cover, and cast-iron plate
- Heats to 700°F in about 10 minutes for real searing
Cons:- Liquid propane only with no natural gas conversion
- Smart features stop at monitoring — no automated cooking adjustments like pellet rivals
Best for: Backyard hosts who regularly cook for large groups and want probe-based remote monitoring without sacrificing traditional gas-grill power
Not ideal for: Households with a natural gas line or small patios — the 65-inch cart footprint demands serious space and LP-only fuel limits installation options
- Fuel type:Liquid propane
- Main burners:6 ThermaSear burners
- Side burners:1 ceramic sear burner
- Total output:78,000 BTU
- Cooking area:900 sq. in. (640 primary, 260 warming rack)
- Smart features:Bluetooth monitoring, dual meat probes
- Included accessories:Cover, rotisserie kit, pizza stone, cast-iron plate, 2 meat probes
- Dimensions:24 × 65 × 46 in. (D × W × H)
Our verdict“Buy this if you feed crowds regularly and want smart monitoring layered onto a powerful, fully accessorized gas grill rather than fully automated cooking.”
Ninja Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill & Air Fryer with Thermometer (DG551)
Every other grill in this roundup lives outside — this one is the answer for apartment dwellers and anyone facing winter. The Smart Cook System thermometer is the standout: four protein settings and nine doneness levels mean the grill tells you when food is done rather than the other way around, which is more automated than the Monument Denali 605Pro’s probe-alert approach. 500°F cyclonic heat produces respectable char marks indoors, and the smoke control system keeps alarms from becoming a dinner guest. Compared with the Breville BGR820XL Smart Grill, the Ninja adds air frying, roasting, baking, broiling, and dehydrating on top of grilling, making it a true countertop multitasker. Tradeoffs are real, though: a 9 × 12-inch grate caps capacity well below any outdoor model, and the footprint is large for a countertop appliance.
Pros:- Built-in smart thermometer with 4 protein settings and 9 doneness levels
- Six cooking functions including air frying for genuine countertop versatility
- Smoke control system makes indoor grilling practical
- Cooks frozen food without defrosting in under 25 minutes
Cons:- Large footprint dominates counter space in small kitchens
- Small 9 × 12-inch grate limits capacity versus outdoor grills
Best for: Apartment renters and cold-climate cooks who want grilled results year-round with zero guesswork on doneness
Not ideal for: Outdoor purists chasing real flame flavor and smoke rings — the electric indoor design can’t replicate charcoal or pellet results, and it monopolizes counter space
- Model:DG551
- Cooking functions:Grill, Air Crisp, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate
- Max temperature:500°F
- Grill grate size:9 in. × 12 in.
- Capacity:Up to 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs
- Smart thermometer:Yes — 4 protein settings, 9 doneness levels
- Crisper basket capacity:4 qt
- Dishwasher safe parts:Yes
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for people who can’t grill outside but refuse to give up char-grilled texture and foolproof doneness.”
Brisk It Zelos-450 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker with WiFi and A.I. Technology
If the smart-grill category has a defining product, this is it — the A.I. assistant accepts natural language commands like ‘smoke this brisket low and slow’ and adjusts the cook itself, something no other grill here does. Compared with the Pit Boss 850 Navigator or recteq RT-1600, the Zelos-450 trades raw capacity (450 sq. in. versus 850-plus) for approachability: PID control holds 180–500°F steadily, and the system manages temperature changes without intervention. That makes it the most forgiving entry point for someone intimidated by fire management, though the Weber Performer’s charcoal purists will miss real flame flavor pellets never quite match. The smart features depend entirely on WiFi and electricity, so a dead router turns this into a basic pellet cooker. Pellet fuel also costs more per cook than charcoal or propane over time — a real budget consideration.
Pros:- A.I. assistant takes natural language instructions and self-adjusts during cooking
- PID controller holds precise temperatures from 180°F to 500°F
- 7-in-1 versatility from smoking to searing in one unit
- Waterproof cover and weather-resistant steel included for outdoor durability
Cons:- Smart features require constant electricity and WiFi connectivity
- Wood pellets cost more over time than charcoal or propane
Best for: First-time pellet grillers and tech-comfortable cooks who want to describe dinner in plain language and let the grill handle execution
Not ideal for: Off-grid or remote-property grillers without reliable WiFi — the headline A.I. features simply don’t function offline, and pellet costs add up for heavy users
- Cooking area:450 sq. in.
- Temperature range:180°F – 500°F
- Fuel type:100% natural wood pellets
- Connectivity:WiFi with A.I. natural language control
- Cooking modes:Smoking, grilling, baking, roasting, searing, braising, char-grilling
- Capacity:15 burgers or 2 rib racks
- Included accessories:Meat probe, waterproof grill cover
- Construction:Weather-resistant steel with rugged wheels
Our verdict“Choose this if you want the most automated grilling experience available and are willing to accept pellet fuel costs and a WiFi dependency to get it.”
How We Picked
I evaluated each grill against four criteria that actually determine whether a “smart” grill earns its label. First, connectivity that changes behavior: an app that only shows a temperature readout scores lower than one that lets you adjust heat, track probes, and receive alerts that meaningfully change how you cook. Second, cooking performance and consistency, including temperature range, heat recovery, and how evenly each unit holds a set point across long smokes. Third, versatility — whether the grill earns its footprint by handling multiple cooking styles, from searing to smoking to griddling. Fourth, usability and maintenance, because a smart grill that’s hard to clean or prone to connectivity dropouts quickly becomes a dumb grill you resent.
The ranking order reflects real buyer priorities rather than raw spec counts. Models that combine genuine wood or charcoal flavor with strong automation (the Woodfire ProConnect, Gravity Series) rank above those with more features but weaker cooking fundamentals. Indoor models are ranked on a different curve entirely, judged against kitchen appliances rather than backyard rigs. Throughout, I weighted who each grill is actually for over universal praise — every pick has a clear owner and a clear group who should skip it.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Smart Grills
Before choosing a smart grill, it helps to understand what the technology can and cannot do, and which type of connectivity matches how you actually cook. These are the factors that separate a satisfying purchase from an expensive app-enabled disappointment.Match the Fuel Type to Your Flavor Priorities
The single biggest decision isn’t smart features — it’s fuel, because no app can change what pellet, charcoal, gas, or electric heat tastes like. Pellet grills like the recteq RT-1600 and Pit Boss 850 Navigator excel at low-and-slow smoking with steady automated heat, but they can’t sear as hard as charcoal and they depend on electricity, which means an extension cord run to the patio. Charcoal models such as the Masterbuilt Gravity Series digitize the process well, yet you still handle ash and lighting mechanics. Gas grills like the Monument Denali offer instant heat and the lowest learning curve but the least smoky result. A common mistake is buying a pellet grill expecting steakhouse searing; if weeknight burgers are your main use case, gas or the Ninja Woodfire’s hybrid approach fits better than a dedicated smoker.
Understand What ‘Smart’ Actually Means
Smart features fall into three tiers, and knowing which tier you’re paying for prevents most disappointment. Monitoring-only grills send temperature and probe data to your phone but require you to make every adjustment. Control grills let you change setpoints, timers, and modes remotely. Automation grills — the Brisk It Zelos-450 is the clearest example — actively adjust cooking programs based on probe feedback. Buyers who only check food occasionally will find monitoring sufficient and can save money, while anyone who runs overnight briskets genuinely benefits from remote control. Be honest about whether you’ll keep the app on your phone a year from now; if the answer is no, a simpler digital controller serves you just as well.
Indoor Versus Outdoor Is a Lifestyle Question
The Ninja Foodi line and Breville Smart Grill occupy a different category than everything else here, and choosing between them is about your living situation more than specs. Apartment dwellers, condo owners, and anyone facing winter get far more value from an indoor model that works year-round than from a superior outdoor rig that sits covered for five months. The tradeoff is real, though: indoor grills use smoke-extraction systems that capture some but not all of the flavor compounds, and none reproduce the bark and smoke ring of wood-fired cooking. If you already own an outdoor grill, an indoor smart grill makes sense as a complement. If it would be your only grill, think hard about whether the convenience outweighs the flavor ceiling.
Probe Quality Matters More Than App Polish
Meat probes are where smart grills either justify themselves or fall apart, because a probe that reads five degrees off defeats the entire system. Look for multiple probe ports if you cook different proteins at once, and check whether probes are included or sold separately — some brands treat them as accessories. Probe-driven automation, like the Ninja DG551’s thermometer-integrated cooking programs or the Brisk It’s A.I. adjustments, closes the loop between measurement and action. A common mistake is assuming all included probes are food-grade accurate; keeping a standalone instant-read thermometer as a backup is cheap insurance for the first few cooks. Also consider that probe jacks and cables are the most failure-prone parts on any smart grill, so accessible replacement parts are a quiet but meaningful advantage.
Size Your Grill to Real Cooking, Not Aspirations
Smart grills tend to be larger and heavier than their dumb counterparts because of hoppers, controllers, and insulation, and the footprint catches buyers off guard. A 30-pound hopper like the Pit Boss 850’s supports long unattended smokes but makes the unit awkward to move; smaller hoppers trade autonomy for maneuverability. Cooking surface matters differently than raw size — the Masterbuilt 1050 versus 800 choice is really about how often you cook for crowds versus a family of four. Also weigh the ratio of primary grate to warming rack, since manufacturers inflate total square inches with space you’ll rarely cook on. Measure your patio or counter space before buying, especially for indoor models, where the Ninja Foodi XL’s footprint competes directly with your other countertop appliances.
Budget for the Running Costs, Not Just the Sticker
The purchase price is only part of the cost equation, and smart grills introduce expenses traditional grills don’t have. Pellet grills consume fuel continuously — an overnight brisket can burn through ten-plus pounds of pellets — and premium hardwood blends cost meaningfully more than basic charcoal. Gravity-fed charcoal is often the cheapest fuel per cook among the automated options, which is a hidden advantage of the Masterbuilt line. Electric indoor models cost little to run but commit you to their nonstandard accessories in some cases. Factor in covers, replacement probes, grates, and grease management consumables when comparing models at similar prices. A cheaper grill with expensive proprietary parts can cost more over three years than a pricier one with universal compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do smart grills need WiFi to work, or can I use them offline?
Every grill in this roundup functions as a fully capable cooker without any connection — the app and WiFi layer sits on top of the physical controls, not underneath them. Where connectivity matters is convenience: remote monitoring, push alerts, and recipe programs all go dark without a signal, but the dial or controller on the unit itself keeps managing temperature. Grills with Bluetooth, like the Pit Boss 850 Navigator, maintain basic app functions at closer range even with no home WiFi. If your patio sits at the edge of your router’s reach, models with both Bluetooth and WiFi give you a fallback. The one exception category is automation: features like the Brisk It Zelos’s A.I. cooking programs depend on the connected system being active, so offline you lose the smartest layer rather than just the remote layer.
Are indoor smart grills a real substitute for outdoor grilling?
They are a genuine substitute for the technique of grilling but not the flavor of live fire. Models like the Ninja Foodi Smart XL and Breville Smart Grill reach real searing temperatures and produce marked grill patterns and Maillard browning that a skillet can’t match indoors. What they can’t replicate is combustion flavor — the smoke compounds from burning wood or charcoal — so a burger off the Breville tastes closer to a great stovetop burger than a backyard one. The Ninja Woodfire line narrows this gap with pellet smoke generation, which is why it straddles both worlds. For someone in an apartment or a cold climate, that tradeoff is more than fair; for someone with a usable patio, an indoor model is a supplement, not a replacement.
Is a pellet grill or a gravity-fed charcoal grill better for beginners?
Both automate fuel management well, but they suit different beginner temperaments. Pellet grills like the recteq RT-1600 are the simplest path to consistent smoked meat: set a temperature, insert a probe, and the auger handles everything, with the main learning curve being pellet flavor selection and cleanup. Gravity-fed charcoal, like the Masterbuilt 800 and 1050, requires slightly more engagement — you load charcoal once and the fan controls the burn — but rewards you with deeper charcoal flavor and better high-heat searing on the same fuel bed. A beginner who wants maximum simplicity and mostly cooks brisket, ribs, and poultry should pick pellet. A beginner who also wants steaks and burgers with real charcoal character gets more range from gravity-fed. Budget matters too: gravity charcoal is typically cheaper per cook than pellets.
How much do the smart features actually matter once the novelty wears off?
Honestly, it depends on which features you’re relying on. Remote temperature monitoring earns its keep permanently for anyone doing long smokes, because walking away from a six-hour pork shoulder without alerts is the whole value proposition. Remote control of setpoints is useful mainly for preheating on your way home or overnight cooks. Recipe-guided programs and A.I. adjustments help most in the first months and tend to matter less as your instincts develop. The features that consistently go unused are social sharing, gimmicky notifications, and anything requiring you to scroll through menus mid-cook. When comparing models, weight the app by its monitoring and probe functions first and treat everything else as a bonus rather than a reason to buy.
Why are there three different Ninja Foodi indoor grills, and which one should I choose?
The three Ninja indoor models — the LG451, FG551, and DG551 — share the same core grilling platform and differ mainly in capacity and thermometer integration. The LG451 is the compact entry point with a smaller air fryer basket, best for one or two people. The FG551 steps up to XL capacity and a larger cooking surface for families. The DG551 adds the integrated smart thermometer that enables probe-driven automatic cooking, meaning it pulls food to exact doneness without you watching — the most genuinely “smart” of the three. If you cook roasts, thick chops, or whole birds indoors, the DG551’s thermometer justifies the step up. If you mostly grill burgers and hot dogs, the FG551 hits the sweet spot, and the LG451 makes sense only when counter space is the deciding factor.
Conclusion
After comparing all thirteen models, the right pick depends less on specs and more on how you cook. For best overall, the Ninja Woodfire ProConnect Premium XL delivers the rare combination of real wood smoke, strong automation, and grill-and-smoker versatility that satisfies the widest range of cooks. For best value, the Pit Boss 850 Navigator packs WiFi control, multiple probes, a flame broiler, and a massive hopper into a package that undercuts comparable pellet rigs on capability per dollar. The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 is my value pick for charcoal loyalists specifically, automating traditional fuel at a lower running cost than pellets.
For beginners, the Ninja Foodi Smart XL DG551 is the gentlest on-ramp — its thermometer-driven programs cook food to doneness automatically, indoors, year-round, with zero fire management to learn. For premium buyers, the recteq RT-1600 Flagship offers heavy-duty construction and rock-steady temperature control for serious smoking, while the Brisk It Zelos-450 is the pick if you want the most advanced automation software available. For specific needs: the Monument Denali 605Pro for large-gathering gas grilling, the Weber Performer for purists who want charcoal with a digital assist, the Ninja FlexFlame for multi-fuel experimenters, the Masterbuilt 1050 bundle for maximum charcoal capacity, and the Breville Smart Grill for open-counter cooking with panini-grade precision. Whatever you choose, buy for the fuel and footprint you’ll actually live with — the smart features are only as good as the grill underneath them.
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