You’ve spent years perfecting your barbecue, but the backyard grill you own just can’t hold a steady temperature, and you’re tired of babysitting it. You want real hardwood smoke flavor without the constant guesswork. If that sounds like you, the Pit Boss 850 Navigator might be the pellet grill you’ve been looking for. In this review, we’ll break down its features, compare it to other models in the Navigator line, and help you decide if it’s the right smoker for your outdoor cooking setup.
We spent time evaluating the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth against its bigger sibling, the 1300, and a vertical option, the Navigator 3-Series. We’ll look at cooking space, temperature range, hopper capacity, and smart controls. By the end, you’ll know exactly which Pit Boss fits your needs and budget. And if you’re curious about other outdoor cooking gear, check out our Outdoor Cooking category for more guides.
Pros
- Large 1,329 sq in cooking surface ideal for feeding large groups
- WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote temperature control and monitoring
- 30 lb hopper with viewing window for extended, unattended cooking sessions
- Flame broiler feature allows direct searing for steakhouse-quality results
- 5-year warranty provides excellent coverage and peace of mind
Cons
- Heavy 188 lb weight makes moving and assembly a challenge without help
- Large footprint may not fit smaller patios or decks
- Touchscreen interface could be less responsive in wet or cold outdoor conditions
The Pit Boss 1300 Navigator Series is a top-tier wood pellet grill and smoker designed for barbecue enthusiasts who demand both convenience and performance. With WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, a large 1,329 sq in cooking area, and a 30 lb hopper, this grill is built to handle everything from weeknight dinners to weekend cookouts for a crowd.
Standout features include the flame broiler for direct high-heat searing, fan-forced convection for even heat distribution, and a touchscreen controller that makes temperature adjustments effortless. The two included meat probes let you monitor internal temps precisely, while the WiFi and Bluetooth app gives you real-time control from anywhere, so you can focus on hosting instead of hovering over the grill.
Build quality is robust, with a heavy-duty steel construction and folding shelves that add versatility. The 30 lb hopper with a viewing window is a practical touch, and the easy-access grease tray simplifies cleanup. The 5-year warranty underscores Pit Boss's confidence in this model's durability.
Potential drawbacks include the grill's substantial weight (188 lbs) and large footprint, which require dedicated space and possibly two people for setup. The touchscreen may be less responsive in extreme weather, and pellet consumption can be high at maximum temperatures. However, these are common trade-offs for a grill of this size and capability.
Overall, the Pit Boss 1300 Navigator Series is a smart investment for serious pitmasters who want a connected, high-capacity smoker that delivers consistent results. Its combination of smart features, ample cooking space, and solid warranty makes it a standout choice in the pellet grill market.
Color: Black
Size: 1300 Sq. In. (Total cooking surface: 1,329 sq in)
Temperature Range: 180°F to 500°F
Hopper Capacity: 30 lbs with viewing window
Connectivity: WiFi and Bluetooth
Controller: Touchscreen with two meat probes
Dimensions: 59 x 32 x 49.06 inches
Weight: 188 pounds
Warranty: 5-year
Pros
- Large cooking capacity of 932 sq in for family-sized meals
- Smart WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring and control
- Wide temperature range from 180°F to 500°F for smoking and grilling
- Two meat probes included for precise doneness tracking
- 5-year warranty offers long-term peace of mind
Cons
- Heavy weight of 175 pounds makes it difficult to move around
- Assembly required out of the box, which may be time-consuming
- No cover included for protection against weather
The Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi Pellet Grill is a versatile smoker and grill designed for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who demand smart features and ample capacity. It is perfect for backyard pitmasters looking to host large gatherings or simply enjoy consistent, flavorful barbecue with the convenience of remote control.
Its fan-forced convection system ensures even heat distribution across the 932 square inch cooking surface, while the WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity allow you to monitor and adjust temperatures from your smartphone. The 30 pound hopper and two meat probes provide extended cooking sessions and precise doneness.
The grill features a sturdy black steel construction with folding shelves for extra prep space, a grease tray for easy cleanup, and a bottom shelf for storage. At 175 pounds, it is built to last but may require two people to move into place.
While the grill offers many high-end features, its weight and size may be a consideration for those with limited space or mobility. Additionally, assembly is required out of the box, and there is no included cover to protect against the elements.
Overall, the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series delivers excellent value for its price, combining smart technology with generous cooking capacity and a strong warranty. It is a solid choice for anyone serious about pellet grilling.
Pros
- Large 1,539 sq in cooking area feeds a crowd or allows batch cooking.
- WiFi and Bluetooth control for remote monitoring and adjustments.
- Flame broiler adds searing capability not found on many pellet grills.
- 5-year warranty provides long-term peace of mind.
- Easy-access grease tray simplifies cleanup.
Cons
- At 205 pounds, it is heavy and may require two people to move or assemble.
- No reviews yet, so real-world performance is unverified.
- Temperature range tops out at 500°F, which may not satisfy those seeking ultra-high heat for pizza or wok cooking.
The PIT BOSS 1600 Navigator Series is a premium WiFi and Bluetooth wood pellet grill and smoker designed for serious backyard cooks. With a massive 1,539 square inches of cooking space and a 30 pound hopper, it can handle large gatherings or long overnight smokes without constant refueling. The touchscreen controller and dual connectivity options make it easy to adjust temperatures remotely, ideal for those who want to monitor their cook from the comfort of the house.
Standout features include the flame broiler, which lets you sear steaks and burgers directly over high heat, bridging the gap between a smoker and a traditional grill. The fan-forced convection system ensures even heat distribution across the entire cooking surface, while the included two meat probes let you track internal temperatures of different meats simultaneously. The 180°F to 500°F temperature range covers low and slow smoking as well as hot and fast grilling.
Build quality is robust with a heavy steel body, folding front and side shelves for extra prep space, and a bottom shelf for storing pellets and accessories. The easy access grease tray simplifies cleanup, and the viewing window on the hopper lets you check pellet levels at a glance. The 5 year warranty adds confidence, though the grill's 205 pound weight means it will likely stay in one place once assembled.
One potential drawback is the lack of customer reviews, so long term reliability is not yet proven. Additionally, the maximum temperature of 500°F may not satisfy those who want extreme heat for pizza or wok cooking, but the flame broiler compensates for searing. Assembly is reported to be straightforward but may require two people due to the weight.
Overall, the PIT BOSS 1600 Navigator is a feature rich pellet grill that combines connectivity, capacity, and versatility. It's best suited for families or enthusiasts who want to smoke and grill with convenience. If you need a large, smart grill with a flame broiler for searing, this is a compelling option in its price range.
Buying Guide
Cooking Space: How Much Do You Really Need?
One of the first things to consider is how much food you plan to cook at once. The Pit Boss 850 Navigator offers 932 square inches of total cooking space, which is enough for several racks of ribs or a couple of briskets. That’s a solid size for most families and small gatherings.
If you regularly cook for a crowd, you might want to step up to the Pit Boss 1300 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth, which boasts 1,329 square inches. That extra space gives you the flexibility to smoke multiple large cuts or even host a backyard party. On the other hand, if you’re short on patio space, the vertical Pit Boss Navigator 3-Series packs 1,118 square inches into a compact footprint with five racks, perfect for smoking a ton of food without taking up much room.
Temperature Range and Control
Temperature control is the heart of any pellet grill. The Pit Boss 850 Navigator maintains a range from 180°F to 500°F, which covers low-and-slow smoking as well as hot grilling. The fan-forced convection ensures even heat distribution, so you don’t have to rotate your food constantly.
The Pit Boss 1300 offers the same temperature range, but its larger size means it may take a bit longer to heat up. The Pit Boss Navigator 3-Series vertical smoker, however, goes lower, down to 130°F, which is ideal for making jerky or cold-smoking cheese. If you want to experiment with different cooking styles, that lower range could be a deciding factor.
Connectivity and Smart Features
Both the Pit Boss 850 and 1300 Navigator come with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, letting you monitor and adjust your cook from your smartphone. The 1300 even has a touchscreen controller, which is a nice upgrade, but the LCD on the 850 is perfectly functional.
The Pit Boss Navigator 3-Series also has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so you can control it from the Pit Boss app. This is a huge convenience, especially if you like to socialize while your brisket does its thing. For more on how to get the most out of your smoker, check out our guide on how to smoke ribs.
Hopper Capacity and Construction
Hopper size affects how long you can cook without refilling. The Pit Boss 850 and 1300 both come with a 30-pound hopper, which is generous for most cooks. The Pit Boss Navigator 3-Series takes it a step further with a 50-pound hopper, perfect for marathon smoking sessions.
Construction quality matters too. All three models feature heavy-gauge steel, and the vertical smoker has a high-temp door seal and viewing window. The 850 and 1300 come with folding front and side shelves for extra prep space, plus a bottom shelf for storage. If you’re also considering other outdoor cooking options, our cuisinart outdoor grill review might offer some useful comparisons.
Final Thoughts
After weighing all the factors, the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth stands out as an excellent all-around pellet grill for most backyard cooks, offering a great balance of cooking space, temperature range, and smart features. If you need even more capacity and don’t mind the extra footprint, the Pit Boss 1300 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth is a worthy upgrade, especially for larger gatherings. For those who prioritize smoking versatility and longer runtimes, the Pit Boss Navigator 3-Series WiFi & Bluetooth Wood vertical smoker is a fantastic choice, especially given its lower temperature range and massive hopper. No matter which you pick, you’ll be getting a reliable, feature-packed smoker that will elevate your outdoor cooking game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Pit Boss 850 Navigator worth it?
Yes, the Pit Boss 850 Navigator offers a great combination of features, cooking space, and connectivity at a reasonable price point. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to step up from a basic grill to a smart pellet smoker.
How does the Pit Boss 850 Navigator compare to the 1300?
The main differences are cooking space and controller. The 1300 offers 1,329 square inches versus 932 on the 850, and it features a touchscreen controller. Both have the same temperature range and hopper capacity, so the choice comes down to how much food you typically cook.
Can I control the Pit Boss Navigator with my phone?
Absolutely. All three Navigator models come with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, so you can use the Pit Boss app to adjust temperature, set timers, and monitor your cook from your smartphone. This is a huge convenience for busy cooks.
What is the temperature range on the Pit Boss 850 Navigator?
The Pit Boss 850 Navigator maintains temperatures from 180°F to 500°F, which covers everything from low-and-slow smoking to high-heat grilling. For even lower temperatures, consider the vertical Navigator 3-Series, which goes down to 130°F.
