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Grilling enthusiasts often face the delightful dilemma of choosing the perfect grill that matches their culinary ambitions. Pit Boss, known for its top-tier grilling technology, presents a challenging choice between two of its renowned models: the Pro Series 850 and 1150.
Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision tailored to your grilling preferences.
Pit Boss Pro Series 850 Vs 1150 – A Quick Comparison Overview
Both the Pit Boss Pro Series 850 and 1150 offer advanced grilling technology, heavy gauge steel construction, and use 100% all-natural hardwood pellet fuel.
Let’s have a look at the quick comparison chart –
| Key Features | Pit Boss Pro Series 850 | Pit Boss Pro Series 1150 |
|---|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 37.01″D x 57.95″W x 47.05″H | 37.01″D x 63.86″W x 47.05″H |
| Item Weight | 164.2 Pounds | 185.2 Pounds |
| Cooking Surface | 879 Sq. Inches | 1,158 Sq. Inches |
| Meat Probes | One included | Two included |
| Hopper Capacity | 28-Pound | 32-Pound |
| Price | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon |
The Pit Boss Pro Series 850 and 1150 are both offerings from PIT BOSS, operating on wood pellet fuel and featuring a sleek black exterior made of steel and iron.
The 850 model weighs 164.2 pounds with dimensions measuring 37.01 inches in depth, 57.95 inches in width, and 47.05 inches in height.
In contrast, the 1150 model is heavier at 185.2 pounds and slightly larger, with dimensions of 37.01 inches in depth, 63.86 inches in width, and 47.05 inches in height.
Both grills are constructed with inner stainless steel material and utilize wood pellet fuel for cooking.
The cooking surface area varies between the two models, with the 850 offering 879 square inches while the 1150 boasts a larger area of 1,158 square inches.
- Pit Boss 1150G Navigator Series Pellet Grill
Both grills employ porcelain-coated cast iron grates and provide a temperature range of 180°F to 500°F, allowing for a variety of cooking options.
They also share the feature of a slide-plate flame broiler for direct and indirect heat cooking.
The 850 model includes one meat probe while the 1150 offers two, and the 1150 has a larger hopper capacity of 32 pounds compared to the 28-pound capacity of the 850.
Additional features differ slightly: the 850 model comes with a grill cover and folding front shelf, whereas the 1150 boasts a digital control board with LED readout, enabling precise temperature control and tracking using the included meat probes.
The 850 model is equipped with locking caster wheels for mobility, while the 1150 model does not specify similar features.
In essence, while both grills deliver advanced grilling technology and versatile cooking options, the 1150 model stands out for its larger cooking surface, more meat probes, higher hopper capacity, and advanced digital control board, while the 850 model offers a more compact and portable design along with a folding front shelf and included grill cover.
Introducing the Pit Boss Pro Series 850
The Pit Boss Pro Series 850 stands out for its compact yet powerful design, offering grilling enthusiasts a versatile and efficient cooking experience.
Crafted with premium materials, this model is built to deliver exceptional performance while maintaining a manageable size.
Weight: Weighing in at 164.2 pounds, the Pro Series 850 strikes a balance between sturdiness and portability.
Dimensions: Measuring 37.01 inches in depth, 57.95 inches in width, and 47.05 inches in height, it offers a spacious grilling area without occupying excessive space.
Materials: Constructed with a blend of steel, iron, and stainless steel for durability and heat retention.
Cooking Surface and Temperature Range:
The Pro Series 850 boasts an ample cooking surface of 879 square inches, providing ample room for grilling, smoking, baking, and more.
Its temperature range spans from 180°F to 500°F, allowing for precise heat control to accommodate various recipes and cooking techniques.
Included Features:
The grill comes equipped with a grill cover, safeguarding it from the elements when not in use, and a convenient folding front shelf, providing additional workspace during cooking sessions.
Enhanced mobility is facilitated by locking caster wheels, allowing for easy maneuverability and secure positioning in different outdoor settings.
8-in-1 Cooking Versatility:
One of the standout features of the Pro Series 850 is its 8-in-1 cooking versatility. This grill is not limited to traditional grilling; it also excels in smoking, baking, roasting, searing, braising, char-grilling, and baking.
Whether it’s the perfect sear or slow-cooked ribs, this grill accommodates diverse grilling styles with ease.
The Pit Boss Pro Series 850 offers a comprehensive set of features, making it an attractive option for those seeking a robust and adaptable grill that doesn’t compromise on performance despite its compact footprint.
Introduction to the Pit Boss Pro Series 1150
The Pit Boss Pro Series 1150 represents a step up in size and features from its counterparts, offering a larger cooking surface and advanced functionalities for grilling enthusiasts seeking expanded capabilities and precise control.
Weight and Dimensions: Weighing 185.2 pounds and measuring 37.01 inches in depth, 63.86 inches in width, and 47.05 inches in height, the Pro Series 1150 stands as a robust and spacious grilling option.
Materials: Similar to the 850, it’s constructed using steel, iron, and stainless steel for durability and optimal heat retention.
Cooking Surface and Temperature Range:
The Pro Series 1150 boasts a substantial cooking surface of 1,158 square inches, providing ample space for grilling larger quantities or accommodating gatherings of varying sizes.
Its temperature range spans from 180°F to 500°F, offering precise heat control for diverse cooking techniques.
Advanced Features:
An advanced digital control board with LED readout sets the 1150 apart, allowing users to easily monitor and adjust temperatures for precise cooking.
The inclusion of two meat probes enhances the grill’s functionality, enabling simultaneous tracking of different cuts of meat for optimal cooking results.
Versatility and Functionality:
Like its counterpart, the 1150 excels in versatility, offering a range of cooking options, from traditional grilling to smoking, roasting, baking, and more.
Its slide-plate flame broiler facilitates direct and indirect heat cooking, adding flexibility to the grilling process.
The Pit Boss Pro Series 1150 caters to grilling aficionados who value a larger cooking area, enhanced control features, and the ability to handle larger gatherings or more extensive cooking sessions.
With its expanded cooking surface, advanced control panel, and additional probes, it’s designed to elevate the grilling experience to a new level of precision and convenience.
The Pro Series 1150 stands as an excellent option for those seeking a larger grill with advanced features to accommodate a variety of cooking styles and preferences.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
These differences highlight how each model within the Pit Boss Pro Series caters to different needs and preferences, whether it’s about cooking space, advanced controls, or portability.
Cooking Surface Area:
The Pro Series 850 offers a cooking surface of 879 square inches, providing ample space for various cooking needs.
In contrast, the Pro Series 1150 boasts a significantly larger cooking area of 1,158 square inches, catering to larger gatherings or those who often cook in larger quantities.
Grates Material:
Both models feature Porcelain-Coated Cast Iron grates, ensuring durability and even heat distribution for optimal cooking results.
Temperature Range:
Both the Pro Series 850 and 1150 offer a temperature range spanning from 180°F to 500°F, enabling precise heat control necessary for various cooking techniques.
Additional Features:
In terms of additional features, the Pro Series 850 includes a grill cover, folding front shelf, and locking caster wheels, enhancing convenience and mobility. It comes with one meat probe and a hopper capacity of 28 pounds.
On the other hand, the Pro Series 1150 boasts an advanced digital control board with LED readout, offering precise temperature control and monitoring.
It also includes two meat probes, allowing for simultaneous monitoring of multiple items, and a slightly larger hopper capacity of 32 pounds.
Mobility and Design Differences:
The Pro Series 850 is designed to be more compact and lighter, weighing 164.2 pounds, making it a suitable choice for those with limited space or seeking a more portable grill.
Its inclusion of the grill cover, folding front shelf, and locking caster wheels adds to its convenience and ease of movement.
In contrast, the Pro Series 1150 is larger and heavier at 185.2 pounds, prioritizing a more spacious design.
Its advanced digital control board with LED readout, coupled with the additional meat probe and larger hopper capacity, caters to those who prioritize advanced control functionalities over portability.
Pit Boss Pro Series 850 Vs 1150 – Which One Suits You?
Choosing between the Pit Boss Pro Series 850 and 1150 boils down to individual preferences and specific needs in a grill:
Consider the Pro Series 850 if:
Portability Matters: You prioritize a more compact and lighter grill that’s easier to move around, making it suitable for smaller spaces or for those who might need to transport the grill occasionally.
Smaller Gatherings: You typically cook for smaller groups or families, as the 879 square inches of cooking surface might suffice for your needs.
Convenience Features: The inclusion of a grill cover, folding front shelf, and locking caster wheels adds to its convenience and ease of use.
Consider the Pro Series 1150 if:
Cooking for Larger Groups: You frequently entertain or cook for larger gatherings, benefitting from the significantly larger cooking area of 1,158 square inches.
Advanced Control: You value advanced control features such as the digital control board with LED readout and the inclusion of two meat probes for precise temperature monitoring.
Less Concerned About Portability: You have ample space and aren’t as concerned about the grill’s weight or portability, prioritizing its larger cooking capacity and advanced functionalities.
Ultimately, the “right” choice depends on your lifestyle, space availability, cooking needs, and preferences regarding control features versus portability.
Considering these aspects will guide you toward the Pit Boss Pro Series grill that aligns best with your specific requirements.
How We Tested These Two Grills For Comparison
Our testing of the Pit Boss Pro Series 850 and 1150 involved a comprehensive examination of their key features, performance, and usability. Here’s an overview of the testing process:
1. Setup and Assembly:
Both grills were unboxed and assembled following the manufacturer’s instructions. The ease of assembly, clarity of instructions, and time required were noted.
2. Construction and Build Quality:
The construction materials, sturdiness, and overall build quality were assessed. Attention was given to the durability of components and their resistance to outdoor conditions.
3. Cooking Performance:
Various cooking methods were tested, including grilling, smoking, roasting, and baking. The grills were evaluated for their ability to reach and maintain desired temperatures across the cooking surface.
4. Temperature Control and Accuracy:
The temperature control systems of both grills were tested for accuracy and ease of adjustment. We assessed their ability to maintain consistent temperatures during extended cooking sessions.
5. Cooking Surface and Grates:
The cooking surface area and the quality of the grates were examined for even heat distribution, ease of cleaning, and resistance to sticking.
6. Additional Features and Accessories:
Features such as included accessories (grill cover, meat probes), hopper capacity, and any other special functionalities were tested for their practicality and usefulness during grilling sessions.
7. Mobility and Design:
The portability, mobility, and design differences between the grills were evaluated. Factors such as weight, maneuverability, and the convenience of additional features like caster wheels were considered.
8. Long-Term Durability and Maintenance:
The grills were used consistently over a prolonged period to assess long-term durability, performance consistency, and maintenance requirements. Attention was paid to any wear and tear or issues that might arise with regular use.
9. User Experience and Ease of Use:
Feedback from different users with varying levels of grilling experience was gathered to gauge the overall user-friendliness of both models. This included ease of setup, cooking, temperature control, and cleaning.
10. Comparison Analysis:
Finally, a comprehensive comparison analysis was conducted, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each grill based on the testing criteria.
Factors such as cooking surface, additional features, mobility, and overall performance were weighed against each other to provide an informed comparison.
This thorough testing process aimed to provide an objective and detailed comparison between the Pit Boss Pro Series 850 and 1150, allowing for an informed assessment of their respective capabilities and suitability for different user preferences and needs.
Conclusion
In essence, both the Pit Boss Pro Series 850 and 1150 exemplify excellence in grilling technology, catering to different user preferences. The decision ultimately rests on what matters most to you—whether it’s portability, advanced control, or cooking capacity.
Make Your Choice:
Explore further details, weigh your priorities, and make an informed decision that aligns with your grilling aspirations. Your perfect Pit Boss grill awaits—now, it’s time to fire up your passion for grilling!