Pit Boss Navigator vs Pro: Which One is Better for Your Needs?

When it comes to choosing a pellet grill, Pit Boss is a brand that many outdoor cooking enthusiasts turn to. With a wide range of models available, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. In this article, I will compare two popular models: the Pit Boss Navigator and the Pro Series. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the differences between these two models and which one may be the best fit for your outdoor cooking needs.

First, let’s take a look at Pit Boss and the Pro Series. Pit Boss is a company that has been around for over two decades, and they specialize in producing high-quality pellet grills and smokers. The Pro Series is one of their most popular lines, and it includes a range of models with different features and capabilities. The Pro Series is known for its durable construction, high-quality components, and advanced technology, making it a great choice for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

Overview of Pit Boss and Pro Series

Brand History and Reputation

Pit Boss is a brand of grills and smokers that has been around since 1999. The company is known for producing high-quality products that are both durable and affordable. Their grills and smokers are designed to provide excellent performance and are perfect for both beginners and experienced grillers.

The Pro Series is one of the most popular lines of grills and smokers from Pit Boss. These grills are designed to provide the ultimate grilling experience, with features like digital temperature controls, Wi-Fi connectivity, and advanced PID controllers. They are perfect for serious grillers who want the best possible performance from their equipment.

Range of Models Offered

Pit Boss offers a wide range of grills and smokers to suit every need and budget. The Navigator and Pro Series are two of their most popular lines.

The Navigator is a heavy-duty pellet smoker that is perfect for serious grillers. It features an open flame grilling system that provides excellent flavor and a large cooking area that can accommodate a variety of foods. The Navigator also comes with a WiFi-enabled controller that allows you to monitor and control the temperature of your grill from your smartphone.

The Pro Series is a line of grills and smokers that are designed to provide the ultimate grilling experience. These grills come with advanced features like digital temperature controls, Wi-Fi connectivity, and PID controllers that provide precise temperature control. They are perfect for serious grillers who want the best possible performance from their equipment.

In comparison, Traeger and Louisiana Grills are other popular brands in the grill and smoker industry. Traeger is known for its wood pellet grills, while Louisiana Grills is known for its ceramic charcoal grills. However, when it comes to the Navigator and Pro Series, Pit Boss is the clear winner in terms of features, performance, and affordability.

Key Features and Technologies

When it comes to comparing the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro series, there are several key features and technologies that set them apart. In this section, I will discuss the most important ones.

PID Controller and Temperature Control

One of the most significant differences between the Navigator and Pro series is the PID controller and temperature control. The Pro series features a more advanced PID controller that provides more accurate temperature control, while the Navigator series uses a simpler, less precise controller. This means that the Pro series is better suited for more precise cooking, while the Navigator series is better for those who prioritize affordability.

Pellet Hopper Innovations

Both the Navigator and Pro series feature pellet hopper innovations that make them stand out from other pellet grills on the market. The Pro series has a larger hopper capacity, which means that you can cook for longer periods without having to refill the hopper. The Navigator series, on the other hand, has a pellet view window and a pellet door cleanout, which make it easier to monitor and maintain the pellet hopper.

Construction and Build Quality

Another key difference between the Navigator and Pro series is the construction and build quality. The Pro series is constructed from high-quality materials, including heavy-gauge, cold-rolled steel that has been finished with a black porcelain coating. The Navigator series, while still well-built, uses slightly less durable materials. Both series are well-insulated, which means that they can maintain a consistent temperature even in cold weather.

In summary, the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro series both have their own unique features and technologies that make them stand out from other pellet grills on the market. The Pro series is better suited for those who prioritize precise cooking, while the Navigator series is better for those who prioritize affordability. Both series feature innovative pellet hopper designs and are well-built and well-insulated.

Performance and Usability

Cooking Space and Area

When it comes to cooking space and area, the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro models are quite similar. Both models offer ample cooking space, with the Navigator having a total cooking area of 1,258 square inches and the Pro having a total cooking area of 1,100 square inches. The Navigator has a primary cooking space of 811 square inches and a secondary cooking space of 447 square inches, while the Pro has a primary cooking space of 800 square inches and a secondary cooking space of 300 square inches.

Temperature Range and Searing Capabilities

The Pit Boss Navigator and Pro models both have a temperature range of 180°F to 500°F, which is quite impressive. Additionally, both models have a searing option, which allows you to sear your meat at high temperatures to lock in the juices and create a delicious crust. However, the Pro model has a slight edge when it comes to searing capabilities, as it has a higher temperature setting of 600°F for searing.

Ease of Use: WiFi and Automation

Both the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro models come with WiFi capabilities, which allow you to control the temperature and cooking time from your smartphone or tablet. This is a great feature for those who want to monitor their cooking from a distance. Additionally, both models come with automated features such as the ability to set the temperature and cooking time, as well as the ability to program your own custom cooking cycles.

Overall, both the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro models are great options when it comes to performance and usability. They offer ample cooking space, a wide temperature range, and WiFi capabilities, making them both great choices for those who want a high-quality pellet grill and smoker.

Comparative Analysis

Pit Boss Navigator vs Pro Series

When it comes to choosing between the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro Series, there are some key differences that you should be aware of. The Navigator offers a larger cooking area, with 850 square inches compared to the Pro Series’ 820 square inches. Additionally, the Navigator features an open flame sear station, which allows for direct heat grilling, while the Pro Series does not.

However, the Pro Series has a few features that the Navigator does not. For example, the Pro Series has a slide-plate flame broiler, which allows for more precise temperature control and the ability to sear at high heat. The Pro Series also has a more advanced digital control board, with Wi-Fi connectivity and the ability to monitor and control your grill from your smartphone.

Market Comparison: Pit Boss vs Traeger

Pit Boss and Traeger are two of the most popular brands in the pellet grill market. While there are some similarities between the two, there are also some key differences to consider.

One major difference is in the price point. Pit Boss grills tend to be less expensive than Traeger grills, making them a more budget-friendly option. Additionally, Pit Boss grills often have larger cooking areas than Traeger grills, which can be a major selling point for those who like to cook for larger groups.

However, Traeger grills are known for their quality and durability, and they often come with more advanced features such as Wi-Fi connectivity and advanced digital control boards. The Traeger Pro 575 and Ironwood Series are two popular models that are often compared to the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro Series.

Overall, the decision between Pit Boss and Traeger will come down to personal preference and budget. Both brands offer high-quality pellet grills that can produce delicious, smoky flavor in your food.

Additional Considerations

Warranty and Customer Support

When making a significant investment in a grill, it is essential to consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer. Both the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro come with a one-year warranty, which covers any defects in materials or workmanship. However, Pit Boss also offers an extended warranty for an additional fee, which can provide peace of mind for up to five years.

In terms of customer support, Pit Boss has a reputation for being responsive and helpful. They offer a hotline for technical support and have a team of experts available to answer any questions or concerns. Additionally, they have a robust online community of Pit Boss owners who are always willing to share their knowledge and advice.

Accessories and Extra Features

When comparing the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro, it is essential to consider the accessories and extra features that come with each model. Both models come with a cover to protect the grill from the elements, and they both have tool hooks for easy storage of grilling utensils.

However, the Pro has a few extra features that the Navigator does not. For example, the Pro has a power outlet for easy access to electricity, which can be useful for plugging in a meat thermometer or other accessories. Additionally, the Pro has a side shelf, which provides additional workspace for food prep and plating.

Both models come with a meat probe, which is essential for ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection. However, the Pro has a few extra features that make it more convenient to use. For example, the Pro has a built-in meat probe holder, which keeps the probe in place and out of the way while you are grilling. Additionally, the Pro has a digital control panel, which makes it easy to set and adjust the temperature of the grill.

Overall, when choosing between the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro, it is essential to consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer, as well as the accessories and extra features that come with each model. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision and choose the grill that best meets your needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro Series models?

The Pit Boss Navigator and Pro Series models are both high-quality pellet grills with similar features. However, the Navigator series has a few additional features that set it apart from the Pro series. For example, the Navigator series has a larger hopper capacity and comes with a built-in meat probe. Additionally, the Navigator series has a unique design that makes it more suitable for outdoor use.

Does the Pit Boss Navigator series come with Wi-Fi capabilities?

Yes, the Pit Boss Navigator series comes with Wi-Fi capabilities. This feature allows you to control the temperature of your grill remotely, using your smartphone or tablet. You can also monitor the temperature of your food using the Pit Boss app.

How does the Pit Boss brand compare to Traeger in terms of quality and performance?

The Pit Boss brand is known for producing high-quality pellet grills that offer excellent performance and durability. While Traeger is another popular brand in the pellet grill market, many customers prefer Pit Boss grills due to their superior build quality and more affordable price point.

What is the ‘P’ setting and how is it used on the Pit Boss Navigator grills?

The ‘P’ setting on the Pit Boss Navigator grills is a unique feature that allows you to adjust the amount of smoke produced by the grill. This setting ranges from P0 to P7, with P0 producing the least amount of smoke and P7 producing the most. This feature is particularly useful when smoking meats, as it allows you to customize the amount of smoke flavor in your food.

Can you explain the pricing variations between the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro Series?

The pricing variations between the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro Series models are largely due to the additional features included in the Navigator series. For example, the Navigator series has a larger hopper capacity and comes with a built-in meat probe, which are not included in the Pro series. Additionally, the Navigator series has a unique design that makes it more suitable for outdoor use.

What accessories are available for the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro Series grills?

There are a variety of accessories available for both the Pit Boss Navigator and Pro Series grills. Some popular accessories include grill covers, cooking utensils, and pellet storage containers. Additionally, there are a variety of aftermarket accessories available, such as smoker boxes and pizza stones, that can enhance the performance of your grill.