When comparing the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series against the Z Grills 700D6, the single difference that decides the choice for most readers is whether they prioritize smart wireless control with high-capacity cooking or thermal insulation engineered for cold-weather temperature stability.
Choose the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series if you want integrated WiFi and Bluetooth monitoring, an expansive 932-square-inch cooking grate, and high-heat searing up to 500°F. Choose the Z Grills 700D6 if you want a dual-wall insulated base that holds heat steady in chilly weather, automated PID management, and a lighter frame that includes a protective cover.
Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series vs Z Grills 700D6 at a Glance
| Feature | Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series | Z Grills 700D6 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Cooking Area | 932 sq. in. | 697 sq. in. |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 500°F | 180°F to 450°F |
| Temperature Increments | 5° increments | Not listed |
| Controller Technology | LCD Digital Controller | Z-Ultra PID 3.0 Controller |
| Wireless Connectivity | WiFi and Bluetooth | Not listed |
| Hopper Capacity | 30 lbs with viewing window | Up to 28 hours runtime (weight not listed) |
| Insulation Design | Stainless steel exterior, porcelain-coated steel interior | Dual-wall insulated bottom |
| Meat Probes Included | 2 meat probes | 2 meat probes |
| Grill Weight | 175 pounds | 132 pounds |
| Included Accessories | User Manual | Grill Cover, 2 Meat Probes |
| Warranty | 5 years | 3 years |
| Best For | High-capacity cooks needing remote mobile management | Year-round smoking in cold and fluctuating climates |
Cooking Area and Capacity
Cooking space determines how many proteins you can smoke at once without overcrowding the grates. In any direct z grills 700d6 vs pit boss 850 navigator series comparison, overall grate volume creates an immediate functional gap. The Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series features a generous total cooking surface of 932 square inches. This expansive pit boss 850 navigator cooking area utilizes porcelain-coated steel grates arranged across primary and secondary tiers, providing the headroom and flat surface needed to smoke multiple pork butts, several racks of ribs, and trays of vegetables simultaneously without choking convective airflow.
The Z Grills 700D6 delivers 697 square inches of grilling space. According to manufacturer specifications, that area accommodates up to 30 burgers, 6 racks of ribs, or 5 whole chickens. While this is sufficient for typical family meals and weekend entertaining, it offers 235 square inches less cooking real estate than its competitor. Backyard pitmasters who have read our pit boss pro series 1150 vs z grills 700d6 breakdown know that secondary warming racks and broad main grates make a meaningful difference when coordinating multi-dish meals for larger groups.
If you routinely cook for gatherings, host tailgate parties, or want the freedom to spread out large briskets with ample clearance around the edges, the Navigator provides substantial breathing room. The 700D6 remains a solid mid-sized option, but large briskets and bulky roasting pans will occupy nearly the entirety of its primary tier.
Edge: Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series wins with 932 square inches of total space compared to the 697 square inches on the 700D6.
Temperature Range and Heat Control
Operating flexibility in a wood pellet grill depends heavily on thermal limits and how the onboard electronics regulate the fire pot. The pit boss 850 navigator vs z grills 700d6 temperature range presents a notable operational contrast. The Navigator 850 spans from 180°F up to 500°F and lets you dial in targets in precise 5° increments. Furthermore, it incorporates fan-forced convection along with Pit Boss’s signature Flame Broiler lever, which opens the heat shield to expose food directly to open fire for charring and high-heat searing.
The Z Grills 700D6 operates across a range of 180°F to 450°F, driven by an upgraded Z-Ultra PID 3.0 controller. A Proportional-Integral-Derivative algorithm constantly calculates the gap between actual and set temperatures, automatically modulating the pellet feed auger and combustion fan to minimize temperature swings. To assist when opening the lid, the 700D6 features a manual Feed button that accelerates temperature recovery or triggers a temporary smoke boost to infuse wood-fired flavor. Those evaluating automated PID algorithms often review the pit boss pro series 1150 vs recteq rt-700 to see how PID micro-adjustments stabilize long smoking sessions.
While the Z-Ultra PID 3.0 controller on the 700D6 delivers tight temperature adherence for low-and-slow barbecue, the Navigator 850 offers superior culinary versatility. Its higher 500°F ceiling allows for legitimate high-heat baking and roasting, while the sliding Flame Broiler plate bridges the gap between indirect smoker and direct-flame grill.
Edge: Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series wins with a higher 500°F top-end temperature and direct Flame Broiler capability.
Insulation and Cold Weather Performance
Ambient air temperature and gusty wind can cause pellet smokers to burn through fuel rapidly or struggle to maintain cooking temperatures. Evaluating the pit boss 850 or z grills 700d6 for cold weather reveals fundamentally different engineering approaches. The Z Grills 700D6 highlights a dual-wall insulated bottom as its newest upgrade. This secondary wall wraps around the lower burn area to trap heat inside the drum, shielding the combustion zone from freezing winds, stabilizing internal cooking temps, and reducing pellet consumption during winter cookouts.
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 relies on a heavy-gauge stainless steel outer shell and porcelain-coated steel internal components without dedicated double-wall chamber insulation. While its 175-pound mass helps buffer against minor ambient drafts, severe cold and wind can cause uninsulated single-wall barrels to radiate heat into the surrounding air. As explored in our comparison of the camp chef smokepro dlx vs z grills 700d6, thermal barriers built into the lower barrel prevent significant heat bleeding and keep the fire pot from overworking.
For outdoor cooks living in northern climates who smoke pork shoulders, ribs, and briskets through freezing winters, the 700D6 holds a distinct mechanical edge. It locks in heat efficiently, retains warmth even after the cook finishes, and prevents the auger from dumping excessive pellets just to battle cold gusts.
Edge: Z Grills 700D6 wins due to its dual-wall insulated bottom that preserves chamber heat in freezing weather.
Smart Features and Technology
Connected smoking technology transforms how you monitor long barbecue sessions by freeing you from hovering around the patio. The pit boss navigator 850 wifi smoker incorporates comprehensive wireless hardware, offering both WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. Through the Pit Boss Grills mobile application, users can view live pit temperatures, track readings from the two included meat probes, and adjust set points in 5° increments directly from a smartphone or tablet.
The Z Grills 700D6 focuses entirely on standalone electronic control. Its interface consists of a large LCD screen, physical dials, push buttons, and dual meat probe jacks built directly into the hopper assembly. The listing specifies no WiFi, Bluetooth, or accompanying mobile app. To check meat progress or alter cooking settings on the 700D6, you must walk to the machine and read the display in person.
For cooks who prioritize modern convenience, the Navigator 850 removes the guesswork and friction from overnight smoking. You can monitor internal meat stalls, receive alerts, and modify grill settings from inside your house. While the 700D6 provides reliable automated heating at the physical control board, it lacks the connected convenience modern barbecue enthusiasts expect.
Edge: Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series wins decisively with built-in WiFi, Bluetooth, and smartphone app integration.
Hopper Capacity and Fuel Management
Pellet hopper volume directly dictates how long a smoker can run unattended before requiring a manual reload. The Navigator 850 is equipped with a 30-pound pellet hopper featuring an integrated viewing window. This oversized fuel reservoir easily holds an entire 20-pound commercial bag of pellets with 10 pounds of reserve capacity to spare. The clear window allows you to monitor pellet levels at a glance without opening the hopper lid, while the gravity-assisted cleanout chute lets you swap wood blends or drain the hopper for dry storage between cooks.
The 700D6 listing does not specify its hopper capacity in pounds, though the manufacturer states that a full hopper provides up to 28 hours of continuous cooking under optimal conditions. For fuel maintenance, the 700D6 includes a twist-open release door located on the rear of the hopper box, allowing users to dump leftover wood pellets quickly into a bucket when changing flavor profiles. Similar maintenance conveniences are discussed in our pit boss austin xl vs pro series 1150 guide, where hopper cleanout chutes prevent moisture-induced pellet jamming.
Although the 700D6 offers impressive runtimes due to its insulated construction and efficient PID feed cycles, the Navigator 850 provides a verified 30-pound capacity along with a visual fuel window. That extra capacity guarantees you will never run dry during an extended low-and-slow brisket cook.
Edge: Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series wins with a confirmed 30-pound hopper capacity and a fuel level viewing window.
Build Quality, Shelving, and Weight
Physical construction, workspace ergonomics, and overall weight influence long-term durability and day-to-day usability. Any comprehensive pit boss 850 navigator series review highlights the grill’s heavy-duty construction. Weighing 175 pounds, the Navigator 850 features tapered legs, an undermount removable burn pot for quick ash removal, an easy-access grease tray, folding front and side prep shelves with integrated tool hooks, and a solid lower storage shelf. Its heavy footprint provides rock-solid stability on uneven patio surfaces.
A detailed z grills 700d6 review reveals a more compact, maneuverable design. Built with bronze alloy steel, the 700D6 weighs 132 pounds, making it 43 pounds lighter than the Navigator. This lighter profile allows for easier rolling across decks and patios. Additionally, Z Grills bundles a tailored outdoor grill cover directly in the box, providing immediate weather protection. However, the 700D6 lacks the supplemental folding prep shelves, tool hooks, and secondary storage space found on the Pit Boss.
Warranty coverage further differentiates the two brands. Pit Boss backs the Navigator 850 with a 5-year manufacturer warranty, whereas Z Grills covers the 700D6 with a 3-year quality assurance warranty. The added metal mass, generous folding prep shelves, and two extra years of factory coverage make the Navigator the more rugged outdoor workstation.
Edge: Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series wins with superior prep shelving, a 5-year warranty, and sturdier overall construction.
Pros and Cons
Pit BOSS 850 Navigator Series
Pros
- 932 sq in total cooking space
- WiFi and Bluetooth app connectivity
- High 500°F maximum temperature range
- 30 lb hopper with viewing window
- Five-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Heavy 175-pound overall weight
- Lacks dual-wall chamber insulation
View Pit BOSS 850 Navigator Series on Amazon
Z GRILLS 700D6
Pros
- Dual-wall insulated bottom for heat retention
- Up to 28 hours continuous cooking runtime
- Lighter 132-pound total weight
- Protective grill cover included
Cons
- No wireless app connectivity listed
- Lower maximum temperature of 450°F
- Smaller 697 sq in cooking area
Who Should Buy Each One
Choose the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series If
- You want complete smartphone control over your cook using integrated WiFi and Bluetooth.
- You regularly cook for large groups and need 932 square inches of total cooking capacity.
- You want the ability to sear steaks and burgers over an open flame with an integrated Flame Broiler.
- You prefer having folding front and side shelves for food prep alongside a 30-pound pellet hopper.
Choose the Z Grills 700D6 If
- You grill through cold winters and need a dual-wall insulated base to combat freezing weather.
- You prefer a lighter 132-pound unit that is easy to move and comes with a fitted grill cover included.
- You want set-and-forget cooking driven by a dedicated Z-Ultra PID 3.0 controller without smartphone apps.
- You want fuel efficiency that supports up to 28 hours of continuous smoking from a full hopper.
Final Verdict
When asking is pit boss 850 navigator worth it, the answer is yes for the vast majority of backyard cooks. The Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series delivers a broader feature set that addresses virtually every modern barbecue need. With 932 square inches of porcelain-coated cooking area, a 180°F to 500°F operating spectrum, Flame Broiler direct searing, a massive 30-pound hopper, and wireless app monitoring, it offers outstanding culinary versatility backed by a 5-year warranty.
On the other hand, is z grills 700d6 worth it? The Z Grills 700D6 is an exceptional alternative for barbecue cooks who battle harsh, chilly conditions. Its dual-wall insulated bottom retains heat where standard metal barrels bleed it, while its Z-Ultra PID 3.0 controller keeps temperatures remarkably consistent. If you want a dependable, insulated cold-weather smoker that comes with a fitted cover and do not require remote smartphone connectivity, the 700D6 remains a focused and capable cooking tool.
FAQ
Does the Z Grills 700D6 have WiFi connectivity?
No, the product listing for the Z Grills 700D6 does not specify WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity. It operates via a standalone Z-Ultra PID 3.0 controller mounted directly on the pellet hopper, featuring a large LCD screen and manual buttons. By comparison, the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series includes both WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities that link to the Pit Boss Grills mobile app.
What is the difference in temperature range between these two pellet smokers?
The Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series maintains temperatures from 180°F to 500°F adjustable in 5° increments, and it includes a sliding Flame Broiler plate for direct flame exposure. The Z Grills 700D6 operates across a temperature range of 180°F to 450°F managed by its automated PID controller.
How do the hopper capacities compare between the Navigator 850 and 700D6?
The Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series features a verified 30-pound hopper capacity with an integrated fuel viewing window and gravity cleanout. The Z Grills 700D6 listing does not state hopper capacity in pounds, but notes that a full hopper provides up to 28 hours of continuous cooking runtime, supported by a twist-open cleanout door on the back.
Which smoker is better engineered for cold weather cooking?
The Z Grills 700D6 is better equipped for cold-weather grilling because it features a dual-wall insulated bottom designed to lock in heat in any weather, retaining warmth and stabilizing temperatures. The Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series uses single-wall stainless and porcelain-coated steel construction without dedicated double-wall insulation.
How many meat probes are included with each smoker?
Both the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series and the Z Grills 700D6 include two meat probes in the box, allowing you to monitor internal food temperatures directly through the digital controller displays without purchasing third-party thermometers.
What are the warranty terms for the Pit Boss 850 and Z Grills 700D6?
The Pit Boss 850 Navigator Series is backed by a 5-year manufacturer warranty. The Z Grills 700D6 comes with a 3-year quality assurance warranty from Z Grills.
