Pit Boss Navigator 850 Reviews: See Why 0 Shoppers Rated It 0 Stars!

Pit Boss Navigator 850 Review: A Smart Pellet Grill for the Connected Backyard Chef

The Pit Boss Navigator 850 Connected Grill is one of those products that feels built for a new kind of griller—someone who loves the tradition of smoke and flame but also enjoys a touch of tech convenience. It’s a pellet grill that merges rugged build quality with digital precision, aiming to simplify everything from temperature control to maintenance. With smart connectivity, a hearty 932 sq in cooking area, and a 5-year warranty, it promises backyard chefs a long-term companion for grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting alike.

At first glance, this is a solid mid-tier option for home cooks who want reliable performance without venturing into commercial-grade pricing. But is it truly a great value at around $729.99 at AceHardware.com? Let’s dig in.

Detailed Specs & Features

As the name suggests, the Navigator 850 isn’t shy about space. You get a 582 sq in primary cooking area and a 350 sq in secondary rack, providing ample room to cook up to 68 burgers at once. The 40,000 BTU rating isn’t the most powerful on the market, but it’s respectable for a wood pellet unit. Temperatures range from 180°F for low-and-slow smokes to 500°F for searing and roasting, with a quick 5-minute preheat time that’s ideal for spontaneous weekend sessions.

Fuel efficiency is a standout here. The grill runs exclusively on wood pellets and has a generous 30-pound hopper capacity, which translates into several hours of uninterrupted cooking. With a 250-watt energy draw for ignition and electronics, you’re not going to see a noticeable bump in your power bill. The 120-volt requirement means it can plug into any standard outlet without hassle.

Connectivity is another major selling point. The grill offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support, giving you app-based controls for temperature, timers, and even troubleshooting. There’s no voice assistant integration yet, but the digital panel is intuitive and well-lit, featuring a single control knob and a clear temperature readout. The app experience includes remote monitoring, recipe guides, and safety alerts—perfect for those who prefer to supervise from a patio chair rather than hover over the grill.

Design & Build

The Navigator 850 isn’t a lightweight. At 175 lbs, this is a serious piece of equipment. Its heavy-duty steel frame and powder-coated finish lend it a sense of durability that’s hard to ignore. While it’s made in China, the overall construction feels dependable and weather-ready. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates add a touch of longevity, balancing easy cleaning with heat retention.

Portability is moderate. With locking casters and a 4-inch wheel size, it’s moveable around patios or outdoor kitchens, though not exactly meant for tailgating. The foldable side shelf and integrated tool hooks keep things organized without cluttering the workspace, while the front folding shelf provides an extra prep area.

Performance

Performance-wise, the Navigator 850 is steady, if not revolutionary. The convection fan ensures consistent airflow, minimizing temperature fluctuations during long cooks. It doesn’t include a PID controller, so you won’t get laboratory-level precision, but the digital system holds temps within a reasonable range for most home chefs. Heat recovery is moderate—open the lid for too long, and it takes a bit to bounce back—but that’s fairly standard for pellet systems.

The inclusion of a grease management system and ash management system makes cleaning much less of a chore. Combine that with the removable grease tray and nonstick grates, and you’ve got a grill that doesn’t demand much upkeep beyond the usual wipe-downs.

Extra Features

Special touches include a built-in thermometer, a meat probe, and compatibility with griddle plates—useful for pancakes or searing veggies. There’s also a bottle opener, side shelf, and front shelf for tools or sauces. It lacks a rotisserie setup, smoker box, or side burner, but the inclusion of smart tech compensates for that. In short, it’s a grill that focuses on core functionality and convenience rather than trying to do everything at once.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Spacious 932 sq in total cooking area suitable for large gatherings.
• Smart connectivity via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth with app-based controls.
• Durable heavy-duty steel build with powder-coated exterior.
• Effective grease and ash management systems for easier maintenance.

Cons

• No PID controller, so temperature precision can vary slightly.
• Limited accessories—no rotisserie, smoker box, or side burner.
• Heavy at 175 lbs, not easily portable.

Price & Value for Money

With pricing hovering around $729.99 at Ace Hardware and creeping up toward $999.99 at other retailers, the Navigator 850 sits comfortably in the mid-range pellet grill segment. It’s not cheap, but it also doesn’t pretend to be entry-level. Considering its 5-year warranty, sturdy build, and digital connectivity, it’s a fair trade-off for long-term reliability. Those who crave hands-free temperature management and smart features without splurging on ultra-premium brands like Traeger or Camp Chef will likely find this an appealing alternative.

Quick Take

The Pit Boss Navigator 850 combines solid craftsmanship, modern app control, and dependable cooking performance into a single package. It’s not flashy, but it’s practical and user-friendly—perfect for those who want to step into pellet grilling with confidence. The smart features genuinely add value rather than gimmicks, and the build quality suggests it’ll last more than a few summers.

Closing Recommendation

If you’re searching for a connected grill that balances convenience, cooking capacity, and cost, the Pit Boss Navigator 850 is a solid contender. It’s ideal for families, backyard entertainers, and anyone who wants precise temperature control without constantly tending the fire. However, if portability or ultra-high-end heat precision is your top priority, you might want to explore other models. Otherwise, this is a well-rounded performer that delivers consistency and confidence in every cookout.

Verdict

Rating: Based on the specifications and overall feature set, we believe the Pit Boss Navigator 850 Connected Grill deserves 4.4 out of 5.

• Winner Feature → Smart app connectivity and 30-pound pellet hopper make long cooks effortless.
• Needs Improvement → Temperature precision could benefit from a PID controller upgrade.