Pit Boss Table Top Wood Grill 10697 Review Portable Mahogany Pellet Cooking

Description

Unbeatable Portability and Design

I recently tested the PIT BOSS 10697 Table Top Wood Grill, and the first thing that stood out was its compact, portable design. Weighing just 42.5 pounds, it’s surprisingly easy to transport. The locking lid and sturdy handles ensure the grill stays secure while moving it around, whether it’s to a backyard BBQ or a tailgate party. Its mahogany finish adds a sleek, premium touch, making it look as great as it performs. The powder-coated steel construction reassures me it’s built to last, even through multiple uses and exposure to outdoor elements.

While setting it up, I noticed the assembly process was pretty straightforward, though I would recommend having a second set of hands just to speed things up. With a 256 square-inch cooking surface, it’s the ideal size for small gatherings or a family cookout. The design is clearly focused on convenience and durability, making this a top-tier portable grill.

Precision Cooking with Temperature Control

The standout feature for me has to be the temperature control. The dial-in digital control board with an LED readout makes adjusting heat levels a breeze. Whether you need low-and-slow smoking at 180°F or a scorching 1,000°F for direct flame grilling, this grill handles it all with ease. I appreciated the 5-pound hopper capacity, which provided enough fuel for an extended cooking session without constant refilling.

During my tests, I used the slide-plate system to switch between direct and indirect flame grilling. This feature is incredibly versatile; I smoked ribs for hours, and the results were flavorful and tender. Later, I cranked up the heat to sear steaks, achieving a perfect crust. If you’re someone who loves experimenting with cooking techniques, this grill offers 8-in-1 functionality, allowing you to smoke, bake, roast, braise, sear, grill, char-grill, or barbecue—all in one compact unit.

Key Benefits

• Versatile 8-in-1 cooking options for endless possibilities.
• Wide temperature range of 180°F to 500°F, with direct flame reaching up to 1,000°F.
• Compact design with locking lid and sturdy handles for easy transport.
• 256 square-inch cooking surface, ideal for small gatherings.
• Durable powder-coated steel construction for long-lasting use.

Areas for Improvement

Despite my overall satisfaction, there are a few shortcomings worth mentioning:

• The 5-pound pellet hopper is a bit small for longer cooks. I found myself refilling it during extended smoking sessions.
• Single-burner design limits the ability to create multiple heat zones, which could be a downside for more advanced grilling setups.
• At 42.5 pounds, while portable, it’s not the lightest tabletop grill out there—some competitors are more compact.

Performance vs. Other Options

When comparing this grill to other portable wood pellet grills, there are some clear strengths and weaknesses. For instance, brands like Traeger offer similar tabletop models with slightly larger hopper capacities. However, I found the PIT BOSS product’s price point to be more competitive without sacrificing performance. The direct flame grilling capability is another win for this unit, as some rivals don’t include this feature. That said, Traeger’s app-connected models might appeal to those looking for smart grilling options.

On the flip side, charcoal grills like the Weber Smokey Joe are lighter and more affordable but lack the precision temperature control and versatility of this wood pellet system. If you prioritize flavor and cooking variety, this grill easily outshines traditional charcoal options.

True Value

For what it offers, the PIT BOSS 10697 Table Top Wood Grill delivers excellent bang for the buck. Its combination of premium features, durable build, and multi-functionality make it a worthwhile investment for casual grillers and BBQ enthusiasts alike. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the 8-in-1 versatility and high-quality construction justify the cost. If you’re someone who enjoys experimenting with different cooking styles and needs a portable solution, this grill is absolutely worth considering.

Additional information