I can’t think of another grill brand that has appeared virtually out of nowhere and gained so much attention as fast as Z Grills.
Bursting on to the pellet grill scene, Z Grills raised almost half a million dollars from 1407 backers on the crowdfunding platform Indiegogo.
People quickly realized that Z grills weren’t just a plucky newcomer. They had quietly been manufacturing more expensive grills for companies like Traeger before deciding to sell their own brand direct to the public.
The prospect of buying a Traeger quality grill at a severely reduced price proved tempting for many, and Z Grills have quickly become one of the most popular pellet grills available.
You not only get an excellent quality grill, but also the reliability and promise that the grill would be well made because of its association with a name like Traeger.
In this review, we’ll take a detailed look at their most popular pellet grills, and see how they compare with other brands like Traeger.
Z Grills Wood Pellet Grill Review for 2019
🥇 OUR TOP PICK: Z GRILLS ZPG-7002E 2019 Model Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
Z GRILLS ZPG-7002E 2019 New Model Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
Z GRILLS ZPG-7002E 2019 New Model Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker The Z Grills 7002E offers great value for money with a similar grill area and comparable construction quality to more expensive pellet grills.
If you are familiar with how pellet grills work, feel free to skip ahead.
The Z Grills design is very similar to brands like Pit Boss and Traeger. The grill works by burning wood pellets (Z grills sell their own brand but any brand of pellets will do) to create heat and smoke to flavor your food. Keep in mind that the quality of pellets will affect cooking time, cooking quality, and taste. Make sure you buy from a trusted and reputed source to guarantee the best possible grilling experience.
The pellets are stored in a hopper located on the side of the grill. A mechanical auger feeds the pellets into a firebox where a rod ignites them.
A sensor keeps track of the temperature and works with the digital controls to maintain the temperature you set by controlling the flow of pellets and airflow.
This design allows you to load up your hopper, set the temperature and effectively ‘set it and forget it’. While conventional grills need to be monitored closely to ensure that the temperature does not get too high or low, these types of grills give you a more uniform way of grilling your meat.
While they are often called “pellet grills”, I really think of them as smokers or ovens since they specialize in maintaining steady temperatures over long hours.
Pellet Grills are great for people who don’t want the hassle or mess of cooking with charcoal, but want more smoke flavor and convenience than gas or electric smokers can provide.
Cooking with charcoal involves soot, getting your hands and clothes dirty, and an exhausting cleaning process. Electric smokers will not give you the taste and flavor of smoke that you get from conventional grills. For this reason, pellet grills are slowly becoming more and more popular among enthusiasts.
Z Grills has multiple pellet grills in its inventory that you can choose from based on your individual requirements and personal preferences.
The Z Grills Lineup
Z Grills currently sell two main models of pellet grill in a few different configurations.
There is a new model (6002B and 6002E) available for preorder on Indigogo but we’re not sure when this is expected to start selling.
Z Grills lineup image courtesy ofZ Grills The original Z Grills were plagued with issues with the temperature controller.
The grills were updated in 2019 with a newly upgraded digital control board.
Z Grills ZPG-7002E Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker Review
Z GRILLS ZPG-7002E 2019 New Model Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
The 7002E is the flagship model, with a total cooking area of 700 square inches and a 20-pound hopper it TraegerTexas Elite 34Pit Boss 700FBTraeger Pro would also be another alternative, although that’s packed with a few more features like WiFi and costs quite a bit more.
The cooking area is split with 504 for the grilling area and a 190 square inch warming rack.
In terms of price, you’re looking at roughly half the cost of the Traeger for a similar set of features.
Everything ships in two carefully wrapped packages and assembly is fairly straight forward with detailed instructions provided.
You can choose a few different color configurations including silver, black or silver and black cover.
The materials are made of stainless steel What we like:
Outstanding value for money – The combination of size, construction, updated digital control system free grill cover at this price point makes the Z grill the best value for money pellet grill on the market.
Easy to clean – The grease bucket collects drained grease, and if yoiui wrap the pain it’s very easy to cleanout
3-Year warranty – Matches the Traeger warranty. Pit Boss grills sold after 2018 have a longer 5-year warranty.
Struggles to get hot enough to sear – All pellet grills are marketed as “do everything” machines. The one area most struggle is searing. The Z Grill is no different with a max temp of around 450°F you are going to struggle sear.
Cleaning ash and unused pellets – Some greasy ash tends to build-up and there’s no easy way to remove unused pellets. It’s worth investing in asmall shop vac so you don’t ruin your household vacuum cleaner.
Other than those two points, the grill is great for smoking meat, temp control is easy and the grill construction is top-notch.
There’s also a700D and E model which includes an upgraded cart with two doors for extra storage, and upgraded caster wheels. The difference between these two models is a bit confusing, the main thing we could find is the 700E has a top temp of 475° while the 700D maxes out at 450°.
Confusingly these options are all listed on Amazon under the same listing so make sure you pick the cart option you want.
The ZPG-450A and 550B are like little brothers to the 7002.
They are virtually the same grill in either 450 or 550 square inch configurations.
Both options are available in all black or bronze and black.
Like the larger model, the grilling area is split between the main grilling area and a warming rack.
The hopper capacity is slightly lower 15 pounds, and the cooking temperature is 160-450°F.
What we like:
The same upgraded digital controller – Z Grills have used the same temp and pellet feed control system as the more expensive model.
Value for money – As we’ve come to expect from Z Grills, this grill retails for a few hundred under similar sized pellet grills.
What we don’t like:
Temperature variance – There seem to be more issues with temperature control on this model. Many users have reported about 30°F of variance from the set temperature.
People always want to know how a brand compares with Traeger, the original pellet grill brand.
This is especially true for Z Grills, since there’s a lot of evidence that they used to manufacture grills for Traeger.
So the question is, can you buy a Traeger replica for half the price?
The annoying answer, as usual, is it depends.
For this comparison, we’ll compare the Z Grills 7002E with the Traeger Texas Elite 34.
Design – Both grills share a similar design and are made with high gauge steel and both are powder coated. The 7002 is slightly less portable with only 2 wheels compared to 4 casters on the Texas Elite (you can get 4 wheels on the 700E and700D)
Grill & Hopper size – It’s almost a tie for grill size, with the Traeger offering 646 square inches compared to the 700 on the 7002E. Worth noting that the Traeger has a single grill, whereas the Z Grill splits it’s space between grill and warming rack.
Traeger Texas Elite 34 VS Z Grills 7002E – Side by Side comparison
We found more people reported temperature control issues on the Z Grill than the Traeger, however, this was addressed with the new models Z Grill released.
Traeger gets the edge when it comes to customer support. This isn’t surprising since they are a US-based company that has been around since the 1970s.
That’s not to say they are perfect. Like any large company, there are lots of complaints of rude/useless customer support.
The bottom line
If you are happy with a large grill that doesn’t include some of the more modern features, theZ Grills 7002E is a better value than the Traeger Texas Elite.
Z Grills Wood Pellet Grill Review for 2018
Are you searching for a capable pellet grill which won’t only look good but will also provide you with a great outdoor kitchen experience? If you are, the newest model from Z GRILLS just might be the thing you were looking for.
The Z GRILLS Wood Pellet Outdoor Grill & Smoker is among the company’s boldest departures from the regular charcoal and gas grills, as it is a very capable appliance that offers more ways to prepare food than most other devices of this type on the market. Moreover, it has a unique look that makes it a perfect addition to one’s outdoor entertainment area.
Is this the right choice for your home? Find the answer in the following paragraphs – we’ll be closely analyzing the model’s features with the goal of finding its value for the money. Read on!
The Features
The Portable Party BBQ Grill & Smoker (700D) is among the most unique appliances of this type on the market, as it uses wood pellets instead of the widely used charcoal and gas fuel systems. This, in turn, provides the user with a completely different cooking experience, which some enthusiasts see as superior. Here are a couple of key features:
Fantastic Design
We can safely say that the design is one of this smoker’s main selling points – it’s a well-built and aesthetically pleasing model whose looks make a lasting impression. Finished in brown and black copper, the model stands out wherever you decide to put it – on the patio, on the decking area, next to the pool, or anywhere else.
However, one important thing to mention here is that the model doesn’t feature a stainless steel construction – the manufacturer was more concerned with the aesthetics than with the overall build quality. Still, the Portable Party BBQ Grill & Smoker looks and feels quite sturdy, so there’s no place to worry about its durability and reliability.
Clear Setup Instruction
Z GRILLS 2018 Upgrade Deluxe Wood Fired Pellet Outdoor 8 in 1 BBQ Smokers/Elite Wood Pellet Grill with Storage Cabinet, Free Storage Patio Cover Included, Bronze(700D)
Z GRILLS 2018 Upgrade Deluxe Wood Fired Pellet Outdoor 8 in 1 BBQ Smokers/Elite Wood Pellet Grill with Storage Cabinet, Free Storage Patio Cover Included, Bronze(700D) Besides the excellent design and solid construction quality, the Z GRILLS Smoker comes with clear instructions that make assembling it a piece of cake. If you take things slowly and carefully, you will be able to put it together in less than an hour, with most parts being relatively lightweight and easy to figure out where their place is. In case you get stuck, just consult the manual – it is very well-written and contains all the necessary information and pictures you might need for a successful assembly.
We should also mention that the model comes with a three-year manufacturer warranty, which inspires confidence in the durability of the smoker.
Complete Kitchen Replacement
Saying that this grill can become your complete kitchen replacement is no exaggeration. Those who decide to invest in it will see it become a centerpiece of their summers, as it can do much more than your average BBQ grill. The primary difference here is that Z GRILLS 700D can also be used as a smoker – most appliances of this type would require an extra smoker box for the wood chips, while this model uses them as its main fuel source.
Besides smoking, the model can do almost everything that large grills can – grilling, baking, searing, chargrill cooking, roasting, and many other things. The cooking options are very versatile, which deserves special praise and puts this device above the competition.
Amazing Smoked Flavor
The fact that this grill uses wood pellets brings a significant advantage – the flavor that it can give to your food is simply astounding. Wood smoke is well-known for its unique savory flavor that depends on the type of wood chips you decide to use. For example, hickory pellets can add a vibrant smoke flavor, while the apple and maple ones add a sweeter taste.
The only disadvantage here is the fact that the user cannot achieve neutral flavors like he would with a regular gas grill. The flavors added by using Z GRILLS 700D are quite overpowering, which is great if you like really aromatic food.
Electrically Operated
Another great feature of the Portable Party BBQ Grill & Smoker is that it is electrically operated. Even though it uses wood pellets, the model requires an electrical connection so that it can maintain the temperature and run the hopper.
Why is this good? Well, with the regular charcoal and gas grills, one has to closely monitor and control the coals and the flame in order to achieve the desired temperature. As you can already guess, this can be exceptionally time-consuming – those who are entertaining their guests will want to be able to converse and socialize with them. And that’s totally possible with this grill – you just have to set the electronic temperature and the heat will stay stable and accurate. Pretty neat, wouldn’t you say?
Automated Pellet System
Another great feature of the Portable Party BBQ Grill & Smoker is that it is electrically operated. Even though it uses wood pellets, the model requires an electrical connection so that it can maintain the temperature and run the hopper.
Why is this good? Well, with the regular charcoal and gas grills, one has to closely monitor and control the coals and the flame in order to achieve the desired temperature. As you can already guess, this can be exceptionally time-consuming – those who are entertaining their guests will want to be able to converse and socialize with them. And that’s totally possible with this grill – you just have to set the electronic temperature and the heat will stay stable and accurate. Pretty neat, wouldn’t you say?
Z GRILLS 2018 Upgrade Deluxe Wood Fired Pellet Outdoor 8 in 1 BBQ Smokers/Elite Wood Pellet Grill with Storage Cabinet, Free Storage Patio Cover Included, Bronze(700D)
Huge Grilling Area & Storage Cabinet
The hooded cooking area of this smoker provides the user with 513 square inches of cooking surface (187 square inches in the warm rack), which is quite impressive. With this unit, you will be able to grill many pieces of meat at once, and there’s enough space to prepare food for a large family gathering.
Beneath the cooking chamber is the enclosed storage cabinet with dual doors. Not only does it allow the user to keep his grilling equipment close, but it also adds some extra stability. The model also has four caster wheels – moving it from one place to another is as easy as it gets.
The Benefits and Tips
The overall design of this unit definitely deserves words of praise – it’s one of the best-looking appliances of this type on the market. The construction quality, on the other hand, is a solid one, but those looking for sturdiness and durability should probably look elsewhere. This is not to say that the grill is not well made, but the lower price comes with some compromise in the build quality.
Putting this model together is exceptionally easy due to a well-written and informative user manual. The assembly takes some time, though, but we don’t think that anybody will have issues with figuring out each part’s place.
The fact that Z GRILLS 700D can be used for grilling, smoking, roasting, searing, and many other cooking operations is probably its most significant benefit. It’s a complete kitchen replacement and one that you’ll be glad to have when it comes to outdoor cooking in the summer. Furthermore, performing each of these operations is exceptionally easy due to well-implemented electronic controls – it’s a solid choice for the beginners.
The automated pellet system featured on this unit is yet another thing that makes life easier. The grill’s automatic auger provides greater efficiency by dispensing the chips as needed, which means that one doesn’t have to worry about the mess that usually comes with the regular grills and smokers. Moreover, the unit’s 20 lb hopper can hold a sizable amount of wood pellets and prevents the need for constant refilling. Keep in mind that there are grills out there that have hoppers of higher capacities and do not need to be refuelled as often, but this is a compromise that you can live with.
Z GRILLS 700D also has a large grilling area that allows one to prepare a lot of food at once. It also has a convenient storage cabinet for the plates and the grilling equipment, as well as the set of caster wheels for quick and easy mobility.
To clean off the charred debris from your previous meals, preheat the grill and use a wire grill brush. Removing the debris is much easier while the grill is hot.
If you decide to apply any seasonings to your meat, do it gently. Hard rubbing is guaranteed to damage the texture and the fibers, and there’s also the risk of over-seasoning.
When it comes to saucing the racks of ribs, correct timing is of crucial importance. This is especially important if you’re using a sweet sauce – sugars can burn and damage the taste. For that matter, make sure to sauce the ribs only during the final 30 minutes of grilling.
As far as we’re concerned, the Z GRILLS Portable Party Wood Pellet BBQ Grill & Smoker is absolutely worth the money. Not only is this unit well-built and easy to operate with, but is also one of the most versatile appliances of this type out there.
This product lets you perform a myriad of cooking operations with its large capacity hopper and the huge cooking surface allowing long and productive grilling sessions. If you’re looking for a grill and smoker combo that serves your barbecuing needs on your next weekend get together, this would be an excellent choice. We recommend it!
If you’re interested in similar topics, please feel free to check out our other articles as well!
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