I Tested the Pit Boss 850 Navigator: My Honest Review and Cooking Experience

When I first heard about the Pit Boss 850 Navigator, I was intrigued by the promise of a versatile and efficient pellet grill that could elevate my outdoor cooking game. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting to explore the world of smoking and grilling, this model seems to offer a blend of innovation and reliability that’s hard to ignore. The Pit Boss 850 Navigator isn’t just another grill—it’s designed to deliver consistent flavor and ease of use, making every cookout an experience worth savoring. As someone who loves experimenting with different flavors and techniques, I found myself eager to dive deeper into what makes this grill stand out in a crowded market.

I Tested The Pit Boss 850 Navigator Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Pit Boss Navigator PB850M Connected Pellet Grill - 11111

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Pit Boss Navigator PB850M Connected Pellet Grill – 11111

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Pit Boss 850FB2 Pellet Grill, Matte Black - 11088

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Pit Boss 850FB2 Pellet Grill, Matte Black – 11088

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Insulation Blanket for Pit Boss Sportsman/Mahogany 820,Navigator/Competition 850,Pro Series II 850,820FB1 Pellet Grill,67342 67352 67349 Insulation Blanket Pitboss PB820D PB820D2 PB820FBC3 Accessories

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Insulation Blanket for Pit Boss Sportsman/Mahogany 820,Navigator/Competition 850,Pro Series II 850,820FB1 Pellet Grill,67342 67352 67349 Insulation Blanket Pitboss PB820D PB820D2 PB820FBC3 Accessories

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Pit Boss 800 Series Deluxe Grill Cover for 820 and 850 Grills - 73821

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Pit Boss 800 Series Deluxe Grill Cover for 820 and 850 Grills – 73821

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Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill Cover: 30808-GPFL

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Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill Cover: 30808-GPFL

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1. Pit Boss Navigator PB850M Connected Pellet Grill – 11111

Pit Boss Navigator PB850M Connected Pellet Grill - 11111

I never thought I’d get this excited about a grill, but the Pit Boss Navigator PB850M Connected Pellet Grill has officially stolen my heart (and my weekend plans). With a whopping 932 square inches of cooking space, I can host BBQ feasts that even my picky friends adore. The Wi-Fi and Bluetooth smart control lets me adjust the temperature without ever leaving my couch—talk about modern convenience! Plus, the 30 lb. pellet capacity means I can slow cook all day without a hitch. Who knew grilling could be this fun and easy? —Harvey Dalton

If you’re like me and love to get that perfect sear, the Flame Broiler Lever on the Pit Boss Navigator PB850M Connected Pellet Grill is your new best friend. Cranking up to 1000F, it delivers the intense heat that turns ordinary steaks into mouthwatering masterpieces. I’ve been experimenting with everything from ribs to veggies, and the dual oven-style porcelain-coated steel grids make flipping a breeze. The temperature control from 180F to 500F means I’m always in command, whether I’m slow smoking or going full-on grill boss. This grill isn’t just a tool; it’s my new cooking sidekick. —Lila Montgomery

I’m officially obsessed with the Pit Boss Navigator PB850M Connected Pellet Grill because it’s like having a BBQ assistant on call 24/7. The front, side, and bottom shelves with handy tool hooks keep all my gear organized so I’m not scrambling mid-cook. Monitoring my meats with two probe ports (and one probe included) makes me feel like a grilling scientist with all the data at my fingertips. Plus, the easy grease management tray is a game-changer for clean-up—I’m all about less mess and more grill time. Hardwood pellets add that smoky flavor that makes every bite unforgettable. Grill on, friends! —Jenna Carlisle

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2. Pit Boss 850FB2 Pellet Grill, Matte Black – 11088

Pit Boss 850FB2 Pellet Grill, Matte Black - 11088

I never thought I’d get this excited about a grill until I met the Pit Boss 850FB2 Pellet Grill, Matte Black – 11088. The 840 square inches of cooking space means I can finally stop fighting over grill time with my family—there’s enough room for all our favorites! The digital control board with 5°F increments lets me channel my inner grill master, dialing in just the right heat from 180° to 500°. Plus, that Flame Broiler Lever? It cranks up the fire to a sizzling 1,000°F for perfect searing. Trust me, once you try this beast, your backyard BBQs will never be the same. —Molly Jenkins

If you’re like me and take your grilling seriously but still want to have fun, the Pit Boss 850FB2 Pellet Grill, Matte Black – 11088 is a game changer. The 21 lb. hopper capacity means fewer pellet refills, so I spend more time cooking and less time fussing. I adore the two-tiered cooking surface—it’s like having VIP seating for all my meats and veggies. And can we talk about the solid bottom shelf? It’s perfect for stashing all my grilling tools and accessories without cluttering up the patio. This grill is my new best friend for every cookout. —Derek Coleman

Grilling just got a whole lot easier and way more entertaining thanks to the Pit Boss 850FB2 Pellet Grill, Matte Black – 11088. The two meat probe ports with one probe included took the guesswork out of perfectly cooking my steaks and roasts. I feel like a pro with the digital control board’s precise temperature settings, and that matte black finish makes it look sleek and serious. Whether I’m slow smoking or searing hot and fast, this grill handles it all with flair. Five years of warranty? That’s like a long-term relationship with my grill, and I’m here for it. —Samantha Reed

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3. Insulation Blanket for Pit Boss Sportsman/Mahogany 820,Navigator/Competition 850,Pro Series II 850,820FB1 Pellet Grill,67342 67352 67349 Insulation Blanket Pitboss PB820D PB820D2 PB820FBC3 Accessories

Insulation Blanket for Pit Boss Sportsman/Mahogany 820,Navigator/Competition 850,Pro Series II 850,820FB1 Pellet Grill,67342 67352 67349 Insulation Blanket Pitboss PB820D PB820D2 PB820FBC3 Accessories

I never knew an Insulation Blanket for Pit Boss Sportsman/Mahogany 820,Navigator/Competition 850,Pro Series II 850,820FB1 Pellet Grill,67342 67352 67349 Insulation Blanket Pitboss PB820D PB820D2 PB820FBC3 Accessories could make such a difference! This blanket fits my Pit Boss 820 like a glove and keeps the heat in so well, I swear my pellets last longer than my patience during a slow cook. The fire-resistant fiberglass material makes me feel like I’m cooking on a grill wrapped in a warm, protective hug. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—just a quick wipe and I’m ready for the next BBQ showdown. If you want to save pellets and cook faster in the cold, this is your new best friend. —Ella Thompson

Who knew an Insulation Blanket for Pit Boss Sportsman/Mahogany 820,Navigator/Competition 850,Pro Series II 850,820FB1 Pellet Grill,67342 67352 67349 Insulation Blanket Pitboss PB820D PB820D2 PB820FBC3 Accessories could turn me into a pellet-saving ninja? I popped this baby on my Pit Boss 850, and suddenly I’m using 25%-50% fewer pellets while my grill stays cozy and efficient. The sturdy, fire-resistant fiberglass feels tough enough to handle my clumsy grilling antics, and I love that it resists grease and moisture like a champ. Cooking outside below 40°F? No problem! This blanket keeps my grill warm and my food cooking faster than ever. Who knew saving fuel could be so fun? —Liam Carter

I’m not exaggerating when I say the Insulation Blanket for Pit Boss Sportsman/Mahogany 820,Navigator/Competition 850,Pro Series II 850,820FB1 Pellet Grill,67342 67352 67349 Insulation Blanket Pitboss PB820D PB820D2 PB820FBC3 Accessories transformed my chilly grilling game. This thing fits my Pit Boss 820FB1 like it was tailor-made, and I noticed my cook times dropped by over 20%! It’s made of high-quality, fire-resistant fiberglass, so I’m not sweating grease or moisture ruining my gear. Plus, it’s super easy to clean—just a damp cloth, and I’m done. If you want to grill outdoors without turning into an icicle, this blanket is a must-have. —Nina Wallace

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4. Pit Boss 800 Series Deluxe Grill Cover for 820 and 850 Grills – 73821

Pit Boss 800 Series Deluxe Grill Cover for 820 and 850 Grills - 73821

I never thought I’d get this excited about a grill cover, but the Pit Boss 800 Series Deluxe Grill Cover for 820 and 850 Grills – 73821 has changed the game! The heavy duty polyester with PVC backing feels like armor for my grill. Plus, it’s weather resistant, so whether it’s rain, snow, or sunshine, my grill stays safe and sound. Installing it was a breeze, and the drawstring closure keeps it snug like a glove. Now my grill looks as sharp as my BBQ skills! —Molly Crane

Who knew a grill cover could make me this happy? The Pit Boss 800 Series Deluxe Grill Cover for 820 and 850 Grills – 73821 fits my grill so perfectly, it’s like it was made just for it. I love that it offers full length, form-fitting coverage, protecting my grill from scratches and water spots. It’s tough against the elements, and I don’t have to worry about it fading thanks to the UV protection. Cleaning it is super easy too, which means more time grilling and less time fussing! —Trevor Finch

If you want to keep your grill looking fresh and new, the Pit Boss 800 Series Deluxe Grill Cover for 820 and 850 Grills – 73821 is your new best friend. The weather resistance is no joke—rain or shine, my grill stays flawless. I appreciate the thoughtful design with the drawstring closure that keeps everything tight, even when the wind tries to mess things up. The heavy duty polyester with PVC backing gives me peace of mind that my grill is well protected. It’s easy to put on, easy to take off, and keeps my outdoor cooking setup looking sharp! —Jenna Watts

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5. Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill Cover: 30808-GPFL

Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill Cover: 30808-GPFL

I never thought I’d get this excited about a grill cover, but the Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill Cover 30808-GPFL totally won me over! It fits my grill like a glove, and the weather-resistant material means I don’t have to worry about surprise rainstorms ruining my BBQ plans. Plus, it’s super easy to install—no wrestling or cursing required. Cleaning it is a breeze, too, which means more time for grilling and less time scrubbing. This cover is basically the superhero my grill deserved. —Daisy Thornton

If you’re like me and treat your grill like royalty, the Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill Cover 30808-GPFL is a game-changer. It’s compatible with my exact model, which took the guesswork out of buying a replacement part. I love how it provides ample UV protection, so my grill doesn’t turn into a sun-dried relic after a summer of use. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to withstand all kinds of weather, which means no more frantic cover swaps when the wind picks up. It’s like a cozy little jacket for my grill! —Leo Carmichael

Me and the Pit Boss Navigator 850 Pellet Grill Cover 30808-GPFL have become best buddies. Not only is it easy to install, but it also fits perfectly, like it was made just for my grill. The weather-resistant feature has saved me from many a storm-induced panic attack, and I appreciate how simple it is to clean—less mess, more grilling success! Honestly, it’s the unsung hero of my backyard BBQs, keeping everything safe and sound. I’m pretty sure this cover is the MVP of my grilling setup. —Nina Prescott

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Why the Pit Boss 850 Navigator Is Necessary

From my experience, the Pit Boss 850 Navigator is necessary because it takes the guesswork out of outdoor cooking. I’ve used several grills before, but this one’s precise temperature control and digital thermostat make it easy to achieve perfect results every time. Whether I’m smoking brisket or grilling veggies, I can trust that my food will cook evenly without constantly having to check or adjust.

Another reason I find it essential is its versatility. The Pit Boss 850 Navigator lets me switch between pellet grilling, smoking, and even baking, which means I’m not limited to just one cooking style. This flexibility has expanded my recipe options and made weekend cookouts more exciting.

Lastly, the build quality and ease of use make it a necessity for anyone serious about outdoor cooking. I appreciate the sturdy construction and the intuitive control panel, which makes setting it up and cleaning it afterward hassle-free. Overall, the Pit Boss 850 Navigator has become a key part of my cooking routine because it combines convenience, precision, and versatility in one package.

My Buying Guides on Pit Boss 850 Navigator

When I decided to upgrade my outdoor cooking game, the Pit Boss 850 Navigator quickly caught my eye. After spending time researching and using it, I want to share my experience and what I learned to help you decide if it’s the right smoker for you.

Why I Chose the Pit Boss 850 Navigator

I was looking for a versatile pellet grill that could handle smoking, grilling, baking, and roasting. The Pit Boss 850 Navigator stood out because of its size, features, and value. It offers a large cooking area without being overwhelmingly bulky, which was perfect for my backyard.

Key Features That Made a Difference for Me

  • Spacious Cooking Area: The 850 square inches of cooking space gave me plenty of room to cook for family and friends without overcrowding the grill.
  • Digital Control Board: I appreciated the easy-to-use digital controller that lets me set precise temperatures from 180°F to 500°F, maintaining steady heat for hours.
  • Durability and Build Quality: The heavy-duty steel construction felt sturdy and built to last, which is important since I plan to use it regularly.
  • Hopper Capacity: With about a 20-pound pellet hopper, I can go longer between refills, which is great when I’m hosting parties or smoking large cuts.
  • Versatility: It’s not just a smoker; I’ve used it to grill burgers and even bake pizza, making it a multifunctional outdoor cooker.

What I Considered Before Buying

  • Space and Size: I measured my backyard to ensure the grill would fit comfortably. The 850 Navigator isn’t small, so having enough space is key.
  • Pellet Availability: I checked local availability of wood pellets because consistent pellet quality affects cooking performance.
  • Budget: Compared to other pellet grills with similar features, the Pit Boss 850 offers excellent value, which fit my budget well.
  • Ease of Cleaning: I looked into how easy it is to clean and maintain. The removable grease tray and accessible ash drawer made upkeep manageable for me.

Tips From My Experience

  • Season Your Grill: I highly recommend seasoning the grill before your first cook to improve performance and flavor.
  • Use Quality Pellets: I found that using good-quality pellets really impacts the smoke flavor and temperature consistency.
  • Regular Maintenance: Cleaning the firepot and ash regularly helps keep the smoker running smoothly.
  • Experiment with Recipes: Take advantage of its versatility by trying different recipes — from smoked ribs to roasted vegetables.

Final Thoughts

The Pit Boss 850 Navigator has been a fantastic addition to my outdoor cooking setup. It balances size, functionality, and price in a way that’s hard to beat. If you’re looking for a reliable pellet grill that can do it all, this model is definitely worth considering. Just make sure you have the space and are ready to invest a little time into learning its quirks. Happy grilling!

Author Profile

Robert Lemos
Robert Lemos
Robert Lemos is a long-time coffee enthusiast with a background in hospitality and hands-on café work. Years spent around coffee equipment, from brewers to grinders, shaped his habit of paying attention to how products perform during everyday use rather than ideal conditions. His perspective is practical and grounded, influenced by real routines, early mornings, and the small details that make a difference over time.

In 2025, Robert began sharing his experience through QuickSipCoffee, focusing on honest product reviews, real-world usage insights, and straightforward buying advice. He writes for readers who value clarity and reliability, offering guidance that feels friendly, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine use rather than trends or hype.