Z Grills vs Pit Boss: Value Pellet Grills Compared (2026)

Updated 2026-11-10 Researched, not tested in person

Quick answer

Buy the Z Grills ZPG-7002B if you want a larger 700 sq in grate, PID temperature control and a rain cover. Buy the Pit Boss 500 FB2 if you want a flame broiler that sears up to 1,000F in a smaller 518 sq in package. Both are budget pellet grills.

Best for size and PID control

Z Grills ZPG-7002B

Budget pellet grill

Check price on Amazon

Best for flame searing

Pit Boss 500 FB2

Budget pellet grill

Check price on Amazon

At a glance

	Z Grills ZPG-7002B	Pit Boss 500 FB2
Cooking area	700 sq in	518 sq in
Temperature control	PID control	LCD digital controller, 5F increments
Temperature range	See listing	180F to 500F
Direct sear	See listing	Flame broiler, up to 1,000F
Extras	Rain cover included	Solid bottom shelf
Warranty	3-year quality assurance (per listing)	See listing
Versatility	8-in-1 (smoke, bake, roast, sear, braise, barbecue, char-grill)	Grill and smoke with flame broiler

The table compares the Z Grills ZPG-7002B and the Pit Boss 500 FB2 using their Amazon listings. Check the current listing for contents, since seller kits vary.

Pick the Z Grills ZPG-7002B if…

You cook for a crowd, want the grate area of 30 burgers or 6 rib racks per Z Grills, and like PID control for steadier temperatures.

Check Z Grills ZPG-7002B on Amazon

Pick the Pit Boss 500 FB2 if…

You grill steaks and burgers often, want a direct flame sear lever, and have less room or fewer people to feed.

Check Pit Boss 500 FB2 on Amazon

Who should skip both

You want WiFi app control or a premium build. Look at the recteq Patio Legend 600 or a Weber Searwood.

Comparison researched from published manufacturer specifications, retailer listings and owner reviews. We have not tested these products side by side. Confirm current specifications and prices before buying. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

Frequently asked questions

Is Z Grills better than Pit Boss?

Z Grills offers more cooking area and PID control in this pairing; Pit Boss offers flame-broiler searing. Choose on grate size versus sear.

What is PID control on a pellet grill?

PID adjusts pellet feed in small increments to hold temperature more steadily than a basic controller.

Is 700 sq in too big?

For a family of four it is plenty. It is useful for parties and for smoking several cuts at once.

Do these grills include a cover?

Z Grills lists a rain cover. Check the current Pit Boss listing before buying.

How we choose gear: we compare published manufacturer specifications, capacity and temperature ranges, materials, warranty terms and verified owner reviews. We do not test gear in person and we do not publish hands-on claims we cannot support.

Cook times and temperatures are researched guidance, not a food-safety authority. Every figure on this page is an estimate: smokers, ambient weather, humidity and the individual cut all move it. Food is safe when a calibrated instant-read thermometer says so, never when a clock or a chart does. Keep food out of the 40°F to 140°F danger zone, observe the 4 hour rule, and follow current USDA safe minimum internal temperatures. If you are cooking for anyone pregnant, very young, elderly or immunocompromised, cook to the USDA minimums rather than to a preference-based doneness temperature.