Discover the Top Four Smart Grills and Which Ones Suit You Best
At a glance:
Ideal for: Barbecue aficionados, ceramic enthusiasts, and those who desire maximum control over their cooking process.
How it works: A ceramic grill that uses charcoal.
Does it smoke? Yes.Does it flame grill? Yes.
Active grill space: 250 square inches.
Pros
Credit: Amanda Blum
- Offers variety and flexibility in cooking methods.
- 3 damper vents provide excellent temperature control.
- Precise temperature sensing and measurement.
- Decent WiFi connectivity, even from far away.
- Can control the grill via an app.
Cons
- It's relatively expensive.
- Can be on the heavier side, making it more challenging to move around.
- Requires more attention for refueling and cleaning.
Quick thoughts
The Kamado Joe Konnected grill stood out from the group because of its versatility and precision. With three different height-adjustable dampers, temperature control is precise and easy. Using the app, it's possible to monitor the grill and change settings, including turning on and off. All of these features come at a cost, but for those who enjoy the detail and craft of grilling, it's worth it.
Read my full review.
Buy the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe Charcoal Grill and Smoker ($1,499 on the Kamado Joe website)
Kamado Joe Konnected Charcoal Grill and Smoker$1,499.00at Kamado Joe$1,499.00at Kamado Joe## Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 Smart Grill with WiFi, $899
Credit: Amanda Blum### At a glance
Ideal for: Experienced grillers looking for simple, comprehensive temperature control and a more modern look.
$899.99at Amaon
How it works: Propane and WiFi technology.
Does it smoke? Yes.
Does it flame grill? No.
Active grill space: 560 square inches.
Pros
Credit: Amanda Blum
- Large cooking space.
- Easy-to-use app.
- Integrated meat probe.
Cons
- Propane tank required (not included).
- Several buttons can be slightly complicated.
Quick thoughts
With a large active grill space and an integrated meat probe, the Masterbuilt Smart Grill is a solid choice for those who want comprehensive control over their cooking. The cool blue LED lighting gives a modern aesthetic, and the included meat probe is a huge convenience. The only drawback is the need for a propane tank (not included), which can be an extra expense.
Read my full review.
Buy the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 Smart Grill with WiFi ($899 in Masterbuilt's shop)
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 Smart WiFi Grill$873.92at Masterbuilt$899.00Save $25.08$873.92 at Masterbuilt$899.00Save $25.08## Overall thoughts
Smart grills are not just an upgrade but a total reimagining of the barbecue experience. They offer more control than ever, making it easier to create delicious food without the hassle. Although my sentimental love for my 30-year-old Weber barbecue remains, it's undeniable that modern technology has massively improved the efficiency and quality of grilling.
With the model selection provided, there's something for everyone—from the beginner to the advanced griller. The most important issues to consider are the desired size, cooking style, and temperature control. The latest should be secondary to personal preference for color, features, and design.
$899.00at Ace Hardware$999.00Save $100.00
Smart grills have developed significantly, enabling a more convenient and superior cooking experience. Despite their cost, consider how much you value the elimination of guesswork and automation. As prices drop, smart grills may become the new standard.
Read more:
- Smart Grills
### Gain intense heat swiftly and simply* Extensive range of accessories available.* Possibility to barbecue, smoke, bake, and char.* Compact sizing.
Downsides
Credit: Amanda Blum
- Limitations in active grilling area.
- Costly.
- Minimal app practicality.
- Difficulty in adding charcoal whilst grill is in operation.
Thoughts at a glance
Kamado-style grills are adored by connoisseurs who I originally did not completely fathom. Although the cooking surface is constrained, the ceramic shell produces a complete heating, similar to a pizza oven, that cooks food distinctively when compared to traditional grills. The exteriors of breads, meats, and vegetables become crispier, ensuring moist interiors.
These grills may appear tricky, with numerous accessories, pieces, and options determined by what you're cooking, but the intelligent app can mainly lessen the learning process and anxiety. If I were to purchase a ceramic grill, I would likely select this one for this reason, although one can undoubtedly use the grill without the smart elements if desired.
The Kamado offers greater versatility. Employing a variety of purchasable accessories, you can barbecue, smoke, bake, roast, or even use the grill like a pizza oven.
Acquire the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe Charcoal Grill ($1,499 at Best Buy)
Kamado Joe Konnected Joe Charcoal Grill and SmokerKamado Joe Konnected Joe Charcoal Grill and Smoker$1,499.99at Best Buy$1,699.99Save $200.00$1,499.99at Best Buy$1,699.99Save $200.00## Masterbuilt Auto Ignite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill, $499
Credit: Amanda Blum### Quick glance
Ideal for: Grillers wanting increased control and flexibility, with assistance from smart technology.
Working mechanism: Gravity-fed charcoal grill.
$1,499.99at Best Buy$1,699.99Save $200.00
Does it smoke? Yes.
Does it flame grill? No.
Active grill space: 545 square inches
Advantages
- Exceptional manual control over charcoal during the cooking process.
- Sizable cooking space.
- Regulate the temperature with the aid of an app.
- Robustly built grill and parts.
Credit: Amanda Blum
Drawbacks
- Restricted area for searing.
- Difficulty in achieving a flame beneath active grilling area.
- Tricky ignition doesn't always function on first attempt.
- Challenging assembly process.
Thoughts
The Masterbuilt represents a heart-driven charcoal grill - a gravity-fed grill where charcoal burns from the bottom up, with a fan blowing the heat and smoke across the cooking surface. It takes some practice to utilize, but offers an enriching grilling experience with fair control.
You can add more charcoal throughout the cook, giving a chance to enhance your food with hardwood for smoking, and the hopper itself serves as a searing surface. Out of all the grills, the Masterbuilt seemed the most resilient, but anticipate a perplexing assembly process. If you're seeking extensive control over a larger cooking space with light support from smart technology, this is the grill I'd opt for.
Review the full article.
Purchase the Masterbuilt Auto Ignite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill ($499 on Amazon)
Masterbuilt Auto Ignite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill$499.00at Amazon$499.00at Amazon### Other smart grills to consider:* Traeger Grills Pro 575 Electric Wood Pellet Grill $599.95* Weber Genesis SPX-435 Premium Smart Gas Grill $1,799
Tools to enhance your grilling intelligence:
- Weber Connect Smart Grilling Hub $83.90
- Combustion Smart Thermometer $199.99
- BBQ Guru's UltraQ Bluetooth/Wifi BBQ Temperature Controller Universal Kit for Grills and Smokers $412.99
$499.00at Amaon
Read also:
The best smart grill, the Kamado Joe Konnected, offers excellent smart features with its app control and precise temperature sensing. It's perfect for tech-savvy grill enthusiasts looking for maximum control over their cooking process.
For those who love tech and desire a smart grill with traditional charcoal cooking, the Masterbuilt Auto Ignite 545 Digital Charcoal Grill provides manual control with app assistance and a robust construction.
