When it comes to searing, you want a pellet grill that can reach high temperatures quickly and evenly. There are a few factors to consider when choosing the best pellet grill for searing, such as the size of the cooking area, the type of ignition, and the ability to control the temperature.
Are you in a hurry? Here Are Our Top Recommendations Based On Our Testing!
- Camp Chef Woodwind Pellet Grill – Editor’s Choice
- Weber SmokeFire EX6 Wood Fired Pellet Grill – Top Budget Pick
I remember the first time I ever tasted food that had been cooked on a pellet grill. I was at a friend’s house for a cookout, and he served up these amazing steaks that were so juicy and flavorful. I was hooked from that moment on, and I’ve been using pellet grills to cook all sorts of food ever since.
If you’re looking for a grill that can do it all, a pellet grill is a great option. They’re great for searing meat, smoking, grilling, and even baking. And, since they use wood pellets as fuel, they give your food that amazing wood-fired flavor.
Comparison Table:
| Products | Cooking Temperature | Cooking Surface | Outer Material | Special Feature |
| Camp Chef Woodwind Pellet Grill | 160 F to 500 F | 14-inch cooking systems | Stainless_steel | Camp Chef Connect App compatible, Smart Smoke Technology. |
| PIT BOSS PB1150G Wood Pellet Grill | 180° To 500°F | 1,158 sq | Steel, Iron | Dial-In Digital Control Board With Led Read-Out. |
| Green Mountain Wood Pellet Grill | A thermal sensor that constantly monitors grill temperature. | 16-inch cooking systems | Alloy Steel | Digital WiFi controller |
| Weber SmokeFire EX6 Wood Fired Pellet Grill | 200 to 600°F | 1,008 square | Stainless steel | DC powered engine |
| Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Grill | 180° to 450° F | 452 sq | Steel | The PID technology holds the tightest temperature |
| Traeger Grills Ranger Wood Pellet Grill | Max temperature – 450ᵒ | 184 square inches | Iron | Advanced Grilling Logic for precise temperature performance |
| Oklahoma Joe’s Rider Deluxe Pellet Grill | 650- degrees Fahrenheit | 578 square-inch | Steel | Timer Mode indicates |
Best Pellet Grills for Searing – Our Top Picks!
I’ve tried a lot of different pellet grills over the years, and I’ve compiled a list of my favorites. These are the grills that I think sear meat the best, smoke the best and are the most versatile.
1. Camp Chef Woodwind Pellet Grill
Special Features:
| Cooking Temperature Range | 14-inch cooking systems |
| Cooking Surface | single burner, 14-inch cooking system |
| Grill Controller | Camp Chef Connect App compatible |
| Power Source | AC |
Our Review:
There is no doubt that the Camp Chef 24-inch Wifi Woodwind Pellet Grill & Smoker would be a fantastic addition to the tools of any serious grill master. An accessory that helps you get the perfect sear is included with this grill.
In addition to a sear box that keeps a constant 650 degrees Fahrenheit for superb searing on beef, chicken, pork, or any other form of meat you wish, you also get four meat probes to seal in juices before serving.
In conjunction with its sturdy build, the heavy gauge cast iron grates is ideal for low and slow smoking and searing. Because of the PID controller’s ability to automatically regulate the temperature, cooking great meals outside is now easier than ever.
This device gives you full command, thanks to its Bluetooth and WIFI features. Using the app, you can save your go-to recipes, set the oven temperature anywhere between 160 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit, and keep an eye on your meal from afar using data from wireless meat probes.
In-Camp Kitchen 24″ WiFi there are a number of excellent pellet grills on the market, but one of the best for searing is the Woodwind Pellet Grill. Slide and Cook Technology has developed a direct flame grilling system that can reach temperatures of up to 650 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing you to grill like an expert.
2. PIT BOSS PB1150G Wood Pellet Grill
Special Features:
| Cooking Temperature Range | 180° To 500°F |
| Cooking Surface | Porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grids |
| Grill Controller | Digital control board |
| Power Source | Wood Pellet |
Our Review:
Just like the Camp Chef grill, the Pit Boss Navigator PB1150G Wood Pellet Grill offers a convenient attachment for searing on the side. When you want to obtain a good sear on your steak, the Flame Broiler accessory is a terrific way to achieve the high temperatures required.
In the same way that the Camp Chef grill features a side attachment that is ideal for searing, the Pit Boss Navigator 1150G Wood Pellet Grill has as well. You can get your grill up to the ideal temperature for searing meat quickly and easily with the help of the Flame Broiler side attachment.
Heavy-gauge steel is used in the construction of this pellet barbecue, making it heavier and more cumbersome to move than some alternatives. However, such durability is useful when trying to keep the heat in when searing.
Moreover, the grill’s built-in temperature thermometer tends to provide some unpredictability to the cooking process. The resulting smokiness in your meat will be stronger than if you used lighter smoke.
Plus, this grill has over a thousand square inches of cooking capacity, making it suitable for large-scale catering events. If you’re only cooking for your family, this grill should be easy enough to operate. When it comes to searing, the Pit Boss 1150G Pellet Grill is among the best on the market, and we will definitely recommend it to our beloved readers.
3. Green Mountain Trek Wood Pellet Tailgating Grill
Special Features:
| Cooking Temperature Range | 16-inch cooking systems |
| Cooking Surface | A meat probe, a peaked lid for rib racks, a convenience tray with utensil hooks, and Sense-Mate. |
| Grill Controller | Digital WiFi controller |
| Power Source | Wood_pellet |
Our Review:
Those who want to cook while camping or tailgating often choose the Green Mountain TREK Pellet Grill. This is because it is lighter and more compact than other pellet barbecues. Even though it’s not as lightweight as the previous Green Mountain Grills model, this is still a top-tier portable pellet barbecue.
About 80 pounds is the TREK’s weight, there are heavier options, but this is the smallest and lightest pellet grill available. Its compact size makes it ideal for transport to a tailgate or camping trip.
As an added convenience, this kind of Green Mountain Grill is equipped with alligator clip adapters on the power line, allowing you to connect the grill straight to a car battery for a hassle-free tailgate.
Moreover, this grill will give you the perfect sear and grill marks every time; thanks to the built-in thermometer that lets you monitor the internal temperature precisely. Plus, because of its wifi connectivity, you can leave this grill to cook while you go do something else, and it will send you a notification when the food has achieved the ideal temperature.
While it is smaller than most, you still have to deal with around 220 square inches of cooking space. That makes it perfect for barbecues with close friends and family, where you only need to cook a few burgers or steaks at a time.
The TREK can reach temperatures between 150 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for searing and other culinary methods that necessitate higher heat. You can trust that your meat will get a good sear on this grill.
4. Weber SmokeFire EX6 Wood Fired Pellet Grill
Special Features:
| Cooking Temperature Range | 200-600°F temperature range |
| Cooking Surface | (four probe capacity) |
| Grill Controller | Weber Connect smart features |
| Power Source | Wood Pellet |
Our Review:
Even if the article isn’t specifically about Weber, it’s nearly impossible to talk about grills without mentioning them. Weber is so successful because it has been associated with both excellent quality and reasonable cost.
When it comes to quality and longevity, this Weber SmokeFire EX6 Wood-Fired Pellet Grill is no exception. When cooking outside, it’s important to have access to both an LCD display for monitoring the cooking process and WiFi for maintaining online connections.
This wood-fired pellet apparatus may become quite hot, reaching temperatures between 200 and 600 degrees Fahrenheit. So, not only can you grill your steak to perfection, but you can also sear it at the exact temperature, all with the same machine.
The Weber SmokeFire’s porcelain enamel construction makes it very resistant to the damaging effects of rain and snow. This protects against rusting in wet conditions as well. While effective, it can be rather costly and there have been occasional reports of pellet jams. Plus, it’s not as transportable as competing pellet grills.
Overall, this SmokeFire barbecue has a convenient ash and grease catcher accessory, making cleanup a breeze. Moreover, large pellet hopper capacity and flavorizer bars for even focused heat on the meat, and above all more than 600 square inches of grilling space is included, and it also has stable WiFi connectivity.
5. Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Wood Pellet Grill
Special Features:
| Cooking Temperature Range | 180° to 450° F temperature range |
| Cooking Surface | Features 452 sq. in of cooking space |
| Grill Controller | The PID technology holds |
| Power Source | Wood Pellet |
Our Review:
There is a lot of room to work with on the Z Grills Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, with just under 500 square inches of cooking space. Instead of preparing food for a large group, it would be best suited for a smaller gathering of loved ones.
This grill has a temperature range of 180°F to 450°F, making it ideal for searing at the higher end of the spectrum. Automatic temperature control can be used to maintain a comfortable environment.
This Z Grill is built to last, but its design also includes wheels so that it can be moved around with ease. As a result, this grill is convenient to bring along for camping trips and to use at tailgate parties.
Moreover, this product is top-notch since it can be used for more than just searing meat; you can also cook, braise, and sear it. Because of these features, you won’t need to use two separate grills to sear and cook your meats.
Plus, it has a grease collector built-in, making it portable and less likely to accumulate grease over time. Additionally, digital temperature control makes installation and setup a breeze.
Even yet, maybe pellets require more frequent inspection. The reduced cooking space of around 450 square inches is another disadvantage. Furthermore, prolonged contact with the grill’s handle can result in burns.
However, having extra time to relax after a hard day’s work is made possible by the Z Grills Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker’s simple cleanup feature.
6. Traeger Grills Ranger Wood Pellet Grill
Special Features:
| Cooking Temperature Range | Max temperature – 450ᵒ |
| Cooking Surface | Grill with a cast iron griddle to get that perfect sear on your steak |
| Grill Controller | Advanced Grilling Logic for precise temperature performance |
| Power Source | Wood Pellet |
Our Review:
The Trager Ranger Wood Pellet Grill is a great choice if you need a portable grill. It may not have the lightest weight or the most aesthetically pleasing design, but its utility is unmatched. Grilling, smoking, and roasting meats and vegetables are all possible with this device.
Moreover, the Digital Arc Processor monitors the oven’s temperature and regulates the pellet dispenser’s flow rate accordingly to guarantee that the food within is cooked to perfection at any given time.
Plus, the grill’s temperature control system is top-notch, so your food will always be cooked to perfection. Thanks to Traeger’s innovative technology, it may also be used as a food warmer.
A temperature of 450 degrees Fahrenheit is possible on the grill. You won’t be able to get a steak caramelized like in a fancy restaurant, but it will get nice and brown on the outside; thanks to the high heat output for such a little portable grill. If you plan on storing the grill outside, you should also consider investing in a cover to shield it from the elements.
Overall, if a Traeger pellet grill is something you’re considering, it’s a good idea to see how it stacks up against the competition. To help you decide between the leading pellet grill manufacturers, Traeger is surely one to consider first.
7. Oklahoma Joe’s Rider Deluxe Pellet Grill
Special Features:
| Cooking Temperature Range | 650- degrees Fahrenheit |
| Cooking Surface | With a 578 square-inch porcelain-coated cast-iron grate and two adjustable 328 square-inch upper racks |
| Grill Controller | Timer Mode indicator |
| Power Source | Wood Pellet |
Our Review:
The Oklahoma Joe’s Rider Deluxe Pellet Grill is the best high-end grill for the money (DLX). When you lift the cover, you’ll see a grate in the shape of a circle. To sear meat at high temperatures, use this.
Moreover, the front control lever may be shifted from smoke to sear to achieve temperatures of up to 650 degrees Fahrenheit, ideal for searing thick, juicy steaks. There is no need for a separate propane tank like there is with the Woodwind. Here, guys, you’ll find only natural pellets.
In spite of its apparent similarity to the smaller Woodwind 24, it is slightly larger than the Woodwind 36. This is due to the increased height of the oven. Also, this rack is so high that it can really hold three shelves instead of the usual two.
A total of 578 square inches is available on the primary rack, with an additional 328 square inches on each of the two levels above. They’re all cast iron with a porcelain coating. When combined, they provide a massive 1,234 square inches for cooking.
Besides, the Flex Grate and Rack System make it simple to regulate the space between the cooking surface and the flames. Even more, shelves can be added, however, they’re sold individually.
The thick powder coating adds to the durability of the heavy-gauge steel construction. Likewise, the wheels, while not explicitly mentioned, seem to be made of the same sturdy material as the rest of the device, which is still another reason why we like this one so much.
Do you ever wonder why they use such a big bucket? That way, any leftover pellets can be kept in a more secure and easily accessible location. Put the bucket under the hopper and pull the lever to empty it after you’re done cooking.
This is a feature that is both basic and clever. Plus, this grill has a four-hook towel bar in addition to the bottom shelf and side shelf. The lid’s twin chimneys have a purpose beyond aesthetics. Because of the improved ventilation, the heat is dispersed more uniformly.
What Features to Look for While Buying the Best Pellet Grills for Searing:
There are a number of factors to think about, just as with any major purchase, before committing to a pellet barbecue. Because there are so many options available, knowing what to prioritize is essential. If you’re in the market for a new pellet grill but aren’t sure what to look for, keep reading.
Cooking Surface:
Cast-iron grates are standard on many pellet grills, and they provide a non-stick surface, among other advantages. In other words, there won’t be any sticky residues left behind after eating or cleaning.
Cast-iron grates, in particular, heat up rapidly and retain heat well throughout the grilling operation. Therefore, cast iron should always be chosen as the cooking surface above stainless steel.
Temperature Controls:
It’s important to get the pellet grill up to the maximum temperature before searing the meat. With this method, you can rest assured that your food will always be seared to perfection.
Make sure your pellet grill has adjustable heat settings so you can cook your meal to the perfect temperature every time. Overall, you should acquire a grill with digital temperature control if at all possible.
Cooking Temperatures:
When searing meat, the grill temperature should be at least 500 degrees Fahrenheit. This is due to the fact that the goal of searing is to rapidly brown the exterior of the meat in order to seal in all of its delectable juices and aromas. It’s recommended that you get a pellet grill that can get up to around 900 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal results. The perfect sear on your steak will result from doing this.
Easy Cleanup:
It’s not fun to have to spend hours cleaning up after a barbeque. You should pick a pellet grill that is not only good for searing but also simple to clean. This usually indicates that the grill has features built into them that make cleaning it a breeze. Ash control and grease management are two of the most time-consuming and labor-intensive aspects of cleaning.
Cooking Area:
If you intend to occasionally host larger gatherings, it’s necessary to have a sufficiently spacious cooking area. Rather than cooking in shifts, it’s considerably more efficient to have a grill big enough to feed everyone at once.
A cooking area of 300–400 square inches is adequate for meals for five or fewer people. A kitchen space larger than 600 square inches should be considered, however, if you expect more than five guests.
Pellet Grill vs Sear Box:
The question of whether or not you need a brand-new grill is an important one. The Sear Box from Camp Chef is our top pick because it is compatible with all Camp Chef grills (both old and new) and even comes standard on select models. Use a sear box with your favorite pellet grill if you like. Other brands of pellet grills can use identical accessories from those businesses.
Durability and Construction Material:
Don’t let the pretty appearance of that pellet grill deceive you. The manufacturer may have skimped on quality control and chosen low-cost materials that will rust even if there is plenty of stainless steel on the outside.
Choose a high-quality powder coating if the grill you’re considering is made out of steel. If the paint on your stove begins to peel and flake, it won’t be long before rust sets in and the corresponding parts begin to corrode.
It’s also important to note that a pellet smoker constructed from high-quality components will produce superior results. In colder climates, high-quality materials will keep the heat in longer and need less pellet usage.
Cast Iron Grates:
The cast iron grates found on some pellet grill models are ideal for searing. Cast iron is more heat-efficient than stainless steel and heats up quickly. You can sear food as soon as you lay it on the grates, provided you let the grill heat up to the proper temperature beforehand. Flipping food over on cast iron grates is easy and doesn’t damage the food.
Cast iron heats up quicker than stainless steel and keeps its heat for longer. It also has a non-stick interior, making it a great choice for searing meats, vegetables, and other items.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has helped you choose the best pellet grill for searing that fits your needs. Remember, when it comes to choosing a pellet grill, there is no one-size-fits-all solution – each type of grill has its own unique set of features that will suit some people better than others. Ultimately, the best pellet grill for you is the one that suits your specific needs and preferences the most.
If you’re in the market for a new pellet grill and want one that is capable of searing, then any of the grills on this list would be a great option. We’ve provided a mix of different styles and price points to make sure there’s something for everyone.
Whether you want the high-end performance of the Camp Chef Woodwind Pellet Grill or the more budget-friendly Traeger Grills Ranger Wood Pellet Grill, we’re confident you’ll be able to find a pellet grill on this list that meets your desire to the fullest.
FAQs
Yes, a pellet smoker can sear a steak. In fact, it can do much more than that. It can smoke as well as a grill, braise, and bake. All you have to do is set the temperature on the PID electric control panel and the pellet smoker will automatically feed fuel pellets to the fire and regulate the grill’s airflow to maintain consistent cooking temperatures.
Yes, you can sear on a Pit Boss pellet grill. Sear is a cooking technique that uses high heat to quickly cook the exterior of food while keeping the interior juicy and flavorful. To sear on your Pit Boss pellet grill, set the temperature to around 500 degrees Fahrenheit and preheat for nearly ten to fifteen minutes. Place your food on the grill grates and cook for five minutes per side.
Simply place the steaks on the grill grates and close the lid until they achieve the desired internal temperature, 120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, 145°F for medium-well, or 155°F for well done. Don’t rush it; give it five minutes to settle before presenting in front of guests.
Reduce the amount of fat on a ribeye steak and season it with a neutral oil before grilling. Try only salt and pepper. Steaks are best when cooked at 500 degrees Fahrenheit, so preheat your Traeger and set them directly on the grill grate, turning them over once every 6 minutes. Ribeye steaks are ready when the interior temperature reaches 132 degrees.
My name is David Lapp and I’m the Founder and Senior Editor of Grilling Forever. I started the website to share my passion for grilling and barbecue. I am also a holder of a BS degree in Nutrition and Food Studies. Learn More!