You’ve finally decided to invest in a serious smoker, but now you’re stuck between two heavyweights: Masterbuilt and Pit Boss. Both brands have loyal followings, but they take very different paths to smoky perfection. This guide breaks down the key differences between Masterbuilt vs Pit Boss, covering electric, gravity, and pellet models, so you can choose the one that fits your cooking style.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a barbecue purist, we’ll help you navigate the specs and features that matter most. Let’s fire up the comparison.
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 1,329 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 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: What to Consider in a Smoker
Fuel Type and Flavor Profile
The biggest fork in the road is fuel. Masterbuilt offers both electric and charcoal gravity-fed smokers, while Pit Boss focuses exclusively on wood pellets. Electric models like the Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ deliver set-and-forget convenience with consistent temperature, but they produce a milder smoke flavor.
On the other hand, pellet grills like the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series burn real hardwood pellets, giving you that authentic, rich smoke. Gravity-fed charcoal smokers, such as the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800, combine the ease of digital control with the bold taste of lump charcoal. Think about how much hands-on time you want and how deep you want that smoky flavor.
Cooking Capacity and Space
How many people are you feeding? If you regularly host large gatherings, you’ll need ample cooking space. The Masterbuilt 40-inch electric smokers offer 970 square inches, which can fit up to 16 chickens or 8 pork butts. That’s serious capacity for a vertical unit.
Pit Boss pellet grills come in various sizes: the 850 Navigator has 932 square inches, while the 1300 and 1600 models offer 1,329 and 1,593 square inches respectively. For big-batch brisket or whole hog cooks, the Pit Boss 1600 Navigator is a beast. If you’re cooking for a smaller crew, the Masterbuilt electric or the Pit Boss 850 might be plenty. Check out our guide to the best smoker for ribs and brisket for more capacity insights.
Temperature Control and Smart Features
Modern smokers are all about precision. The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 can rocket from 225°F to 700°F in minutes, and its digital fan holds temperature steady. You can control it via WiFi or Bluetooth from your phone, so you can monitor your cook from the couch.
Pit Boss Navigator models also come with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, letting you adjust temperatures and check meat probes remotely. The touchscreen controller on the 1300 and 1600 models makes it even easier to dial in your perfect smoke. If you’re a tech lover, both brands have you covered, but the Masterbuilt Gravity Series is the speed demon.
Build Quality and Warranty
You want a smoker that will last. Masterbuilt electric smokers are known for their sturdy construction and reliable performance, while the Gravity Series adds a rugged charcoal hopper. Pit Boss backs their pellet grills with a 5-year warranty, which speaks to their confidence in durability.
Both brands feature easy-access grease trays and removable parts for cleanup. Pit Boss models also include folding shelves and bottom storage for convenience. If you’re comparing to other brands, our Napoleon vs Weber guide offers a similar head-to-head look at build quality.
Final Thoughts
In the battle of Masterbuilt vs Pit Boss, there’s no single winner because it depends on your priorities. If you crave the convenience of electric smoking with massive vertical capacity, go with the Masterbuilt® 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ. If you want the authentic hardwood flavor and the flexibility to grill and smoke, the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series WiFi & Bluetooth is a fantastic choice. Either way, you’re getting a quality smoker that will elevate your outdoor cooking game.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Masterbuilt and Pit Boss?
Masterbuilt offers both electric and gravity-fed charcoal smokers, while Pit Boss specializes in wood pellet grills. Electric models are simpler and produce less smoke, while pellet and charcoal give you a richer flavor. Your choice depends on how much flavor depth you want and how much hands-on time you’re willing to invest.
Can you grill on a Masterbuilt electric smoker?
No, electric smokers are designed for low-and-slow smoking, not high-heat grilling. If you want to sear steaks or cook burgers, you’ll need a pellet grill like the Pit Boss Navigator or the Masterbuilt Gravity Series, which can reach high temperatures for direct grilling.
Which smoker is easier to use for beginners?
The Masterbuilt 40-inch Digital Electric Vertical BBQ is the easiest for beginners because you just set the temperature and time, and it does the rest. It’s plug-and-play with no charcoal or pellets to manage. For a similar hands-off experience with more smoke flavor, a Pit Boss pellet grill is also user-friendly, thanks to its digital controls.
How much cooking space do I need for a family of four?
For a family of four, a smoker with around 800 to 900 square inches is more than enough. The Masterbuilt 40-inch (970 sq in) or the Pit Boss 850 Navigator (932 sq in) will give you room for a couple of racks of ribs or a large brisket, with space left over for sides. If you often cook for crowds, consider the larger Pit Boss 1300 or 1600 models. For more ideas, check our picks for the best electric turkey fryer if you’re looking for a versatile outdoor cooker.
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