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

Pit Boss Competition 850 Review — A Pellet Grill That Blends Precision with Power

The Pit Boss Competition 850 isn’t your average backyard cooker. Designed for people who take outdoor grilling seriously, this pellet grill is engineered to combine precision temperature control with rugged, no-nonsense build quality. Whether you’re setting up for a tailgate party, a lakeside camping trip, or building out your dream outdoor kitchen, this model promises a blend of ease and performance that feels surprisingly refined for its class.

What makes the Pit Boss Competition Series 850 so appealing is its balance between technology and tradition. It’s a wood pellet grill that can smoke, grill, bake, roast, and sear—all in one sleek black steel frame. The result is a versatile cooking station that’s as much about precision as it is about flavor. On paper, it looks like a powerhouse for anyone wanting to move beyond gas or charcoal without losing that smoky authenticity.

Detailed Specs & Features

Let’s start with the core of what makes the Pit Boss 850 tick. Its PB850CS1 designation refers to its generous 849 sq in cooking area—a sweet spot for medium-to-large gatherings. You can comfortably cook up to 34 burgers at once, which makes this grill ideal for hosting. It runs on wood pellets, stored in a 21-lb hopper equipped with a window and cleanout system for easy refills.

The digital PID temperature control allows for precise management between 180°F and 500°F. That range opens the door for both low-and-slow smoking and high-temperature searing. It’s paired with a digital display and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity, enabling remote monitoring and adjustment through the Pit Boss app. The app itself comes with recipes, timers, and troubleshooting features, transforming grilling into something that feels both smart and accessible.

Build-wise, this grill doesn’t skimp. The frame and firebox are made of heavy-duty steel with a powder-coated finish, while the grates are porcelain-coated cast iron—perfect for heat retention and creating those picture-perfect sear marks. It also features a 5-year warranty, signaling confidence in its long-term durability.

Design & Build

There’s something about the Pit Boss 850’s look that immediately inspires confidence. The matte black finish, solid welded construction, and balanced proportions make it appear both modern and industrial. It’s not the lightest at 149.9 lbs, but the sturdy wheels (with locks) ensure you can move it when needed. While it lacks features like collapsible legs or a foldable design, it’s clearly built for stability over compactness.

Inside, you’ll find thoughtful touches that elevate usability—a full-width drip tray for easy cleanup, integrated grease management system, and storage options including a cabinet, rack, and foldable side shelf. The heavy-duty casters make repositioning manageable despite its heft, and the control panel placement feels intuitive for quick adjustments.

Performance

While we’re not testing it firsthand, the specs suggest solid heat performance. Its 500°F maximum temperature combined with direct flame access means you can achieve real searing—not always guaranteed in pellet grills. The preheat time of around 20 minutes is fairly standard, and the grill’s “good” heat distribution rating indicates consistent results across the cooking area.

The PID controller is arguably the hero here, keeping temperature swings in check even when weather changes. It’s especially useful for overnight smoking sessions where stability matters most. With “good” heat retention and high flare-up resistance, you’re likely to get repeatable, predictable performance that suits both new users and experienced pitmasters.

Smart Controls & App Integration

One of the more modern perks is smart connectivity. The grill features Wi-Fi and Bluetooth integration, letting you control and monitor from your phone. Imagine adjusting the temperature or checking the probe reading while prepping side dishes indoors. It’s that blend of old-school smoke flavor and digital-age convenience that makes this model particularly enticing.

Ease of Maintenance

Cleaning isn’t glamorous, but Pit Boss makes it bearable. With a removable grease tray and slide-out drip pan, maintenance becomes more routine than dreaded. The manual suggests a deep clean every 100 hours or once a month—reasonable for frequent grillers. It doesn’t include ash management or self-cleaning functions, but that’s forgivable given the accessible design and price point.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Large 849 sq in cooking surface for hosting gatherings
• Accurate digital PID temperature control with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• Durable steel and cast-iron build with powder-coated finish
• Smart app connectivity for remote monitoring and cooking guidance
• Generous 5-year warranty backing

Cons

• No ash management system or self-cleaning mode
• Lacks rotisserie or side burners found in higher-end models
• No rust resistance—requires care in humid climates

Price & Value for Money

When you look at the price, the Pit Boss Competition 850 feels surprisingly attainable. At $549.99 at Academy.com, it offers strong value for its feature set. The dual connectivity, digital control precision, and solid steel construction make it feel like a premium grill at a mid-range cost. Compared to models above $1000, you sacrifice a few luxury features but retain everything essential for serious grilling.

Who is it for? If you’re someone who values a blend of technology and tradition—someone who wants the rich smoke of pellets without the fuss of micromanaging fire—the Pit Boss Competition 850 hits that sweet spot. It’s not an ultra-compact travel grill, but for backyard and tailgate setups, it’s close to perfect.

Quick Take

The Pit Boss Competition 850 delivers impressive performance and build quality in a smart, tech-friendly package. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it polishes the pellet grilling experience into something accessible, dependable, and genuinely fun to use.

Think of it as the dependable “set-it-and-forget-it” companion that still lets you feel like a real pitmaster.

Closing Recommendation

Based purely on its specifications, the Pit Boss Competition 850 earns its name. It competes confidently in both build and functionality, offering precision control, smart features, and a robust cooking area without breaking the bank. For home grillers and outdoor cooking enthusiasts who want to bridge the gap between analog smoking and digital convenience, this model feels like a smart, balanced investment.

Verdict

Rating: Based on the specifications and overall feature set, we believe the Pit Boss Competition 850 deserves 4.6 out of 5.

• Winner Feature → Exceptional temperature control and smart app integration make it a standout for precision grilling.
• Needs Improvement → Rust resistance and ash management features could elevate its maintenance experience.