Budget ChampionPellet Grill

Z Grills 700D

4.3/5
Check current priceModel status unconfirmedCheck Price on Amazon

Last Updated

Just updatedThis review was last reviewed on September 19, 2026.
Z Grills 700D pellet grill product photo

Z Grills has quietly become one of the best-selling pellet grill brands on Amazon by offering absurd value. The 700D gives you 694 sq in of cooking space, a PID controller, and decent build quality for $469. That's $300-400 less than comparable Traeger or Camp Chef models.

What We Love

  • +Incredible value at $469
  • +694 sq in cooking area
  • +PID controller holds ±15°F
  • +Auto-start and shutdown
  • +Fan-forced convection
  • +8-in-1 versatility claims

Watch Out For

  • −Build quality is functional, not premium
  • −No WiFi (at this price, expected)
  • −Hopper is small (20 lbs)
  • −Temperature swings wider in extreme cold
  • −Ash cleanout could be better

Specifications

Cooking Area

694 sq in

Hopper

20 lbs

Controller

PID (no WiFi)

Material

Powder-coated steel

Temp Range

180°F - 450°F

Warranty

3-year limited

The Full Review

The Z Grills 700D is the pellet grill I recommend to people who aren't sure they'll love pellet grilling. At $469, the risk is minimal — and the performance is genuinely surprising for the price.

The PID controller holds temperature within ±15°F in moderate weather. That's wider than a $900 Recteq, but totally adequate for pork butts, ribs, and chicken. For brisket, you'll want to monitor more closely.

Smoke production is good at 225°F and fades at higher temps — standard pellet grill behavior. I got excellent results on pork ribs and pulled pork. Brisket was good but lacked the deep smoke ring I get on my dedicated smokers.

Build quality is the main compromise. The powder-coated steel is thinner than premium brands, and I noticed surface rust forming around the hopper lid after one Minnesota winter. A cover is mandatory.

For the price, though? Remarkable. You're getting 80% of a Traeger Ironwood's cooking performance at 40% of the price.

How Does It Compare?

At a glance against its closest pellet grill rivals.

GrillRatingPriceBest For
Z Grills 700D (this) 4.3$469The Amazon best-seller that punches above its weight — 694 sq in, PID controller, and a price that undercuts everyone.
Camp Chef SmokePro DLX 24 4.5$479The entry-level pellet grill that quietly punches above its price.
Z Grills 7002B 4.2$429The best-selling budget pellet grill on Amazon — 694 sq in, $429, and 4.

Who Is It For?

First-time pellet grill buyers who don't want to over-invest. Budget-conscious smokers who prioritize results over brand prestige. Anyone curious about pellet grilling who wants a low-risk entry point.

Final Verdict

The Z Grills 700D is the best pellet grill under $500, period. It won't win beauty contests, but it cooks great food at a price that makes premium brands look overpriced.

Check Price on Amazon

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Z Grills 700D worth the price?
The Z Grills 700D is the best pellet grill under $500, period. It won't win beauty contests, but it cooks great food at a price that makes premium brands look overpriced.
Who is the Z Grills 700D best for?
First-time pellet grill buyers who don't want to over-invest. Budget-conscious smokers who prioritize results over brand prestige. Anyone curious about pellet grilling who wants a low-risk entry point.
What are the biggest strengths of the Z Grills 700D?
Incredible value at $469; 694 sq in cooking area; PID controller holds ±15°F.
What are the downsides of the Z Grills 700D?
Build quality is functional, not premium; No WiFi (at this price, expected); Hopper is small (20 lbs).
What's the warranty on the Z Grills 700D?
Z Grills 700D ships with a 3-year limited warranty. Coverage varies by component, so check the manufacturer's current terms for what is covered and for how long.