Pit Boss Navigator 550 Review

The Pit Boss Navigator 550 pellet grill offers a blend of affordability and functionality, appealing to both novice and experienced grillers. It features a digital control board for precise temperature settings between 180°F to 500°F, a spacious 542 square-inch cooking area, and an 8-in-1 cooking versatility that includes smoking, grilling, and searing. The grill's build quality is robust, with a high-temperature powder-coated steel body and porcelain-coated cast iron grates for even heat distribution.

While the grill performs well with consistent heat and quick heat-up times, some users report minor issues such as occasional pellet jams and a challenging grease tray cleanup. The assembly process is straightforward, although the grill's weight may require assistance. In terms of maintenance, regular cleaning is necessary to keep the grill in top condition.

Compared to competitors like the Traeger Pro 575 and Camp Chef DLX WIFI, the Navigator 550 offers a solid performance at a more affordable price point, though it lacks some advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity. Overall, the Pit Boss Navigator 550 is a reliable choice for those seeking a versatile pellet grill without a hefty price tag.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Pit Boss Navigator 1150.

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Pellet barbecues have been gaining popularity among barbecue enthusiasts, and for good reason. Combining the ease of gas with the flavor of charcoal, these grills offer a unique cooking experience. The Pit Boss Navigator 550 is one such grill that aims to deliver on both performance and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned grilling pro or just starting out, this model promises to make your outdoor cooking adventures more enjoyable.

But what sets the Pit Boss Navigator 550 apart from other pellet grills on the market? It promises a blend of convenience and functionality, but does it really deliver on these fronts? In this review, we'll dive into its features, design, and performance to see if it lives up to the hype. While it boasts many strong points, there might be a few areas where it could improve, so let's take a closer look.

The Pit Boss Navigator 550 offers a range of key features that make it a compelling choice for barbecue enthusiasts. Let's break these down.

Digital Control Board

The grill comes equipped with a precise digital control board that allows you to set temperatures ranging from 180°F to 500°F. This means you can easily switch from low and slow smoking to high-temperature grilling with just a few button presses. The LED readout is bright and easy to read, even in direct sunlight.

Large Cooking Area

With a 542 square-inch cooking space, this grill provides ample room for cooking a variety of foods at once. Whether you're hosting a family barbecue or just grilling for yourself, you'll appreciate the generous space.

Flame Broiler Lever

The Pit Boss Navigator 550 includes an adjustable Flame Broiler Lever that makes it easy to switch between direct and indirect heat. This feature is great for achieving instant direct or indirect heat and open flame searing up to 1,000°F.

8-In-1 Cooking Versatility

This grill offers 8-in-1 cooking versatility, allowing you to smoke, bake, braise, roast, grill, barbecue, char-grill, and sear all in one machine.

High-Temperature Powder Coat Finish

The grill's exterior is protected by a high-temperature powder coat finish. While this adds durability, some users have noted that it can show signs of wear after extensive use, especially if not covered during storage.

Meat Probe Included

To ensure your meats are cooked to perfection, the grill includes a meat probe. You can monitor the internal temperature of your food without opening the lid, helping to maintain a consistent cooking environment.

Hopper Capacity

The 16-pound hopper capacity allows for extended cooking times without needing constant refills.

Additional Features

The grill also features reinforced legs, a modular front-to-bottom shelf, built-in tool hooks, and a custom-fitting grill cover for heavy-duty full-length coverage. Additionally, it comes with the Pit Boss best-in-class 5-year warranty. Overall, the Pit Boss Navigator 550 combines modern technology with practical features, offering a versatile grilling experience. While there are areas for improvement, the features it offers are quite solid for most backyard chefs.

The design and build quality of the Pit Boss Navigator 550 is sure to catch your eye right off the bat. It boasts a sturdy construction with a high-temperature powder-coated steel body that feels robust and ready to withstand the elements. This grill isn't just about looks; it's built to last. The powder coating not only gives it a sleek finish but also adds an extra layer of protection against rust and corrosion. A key element of its design is the large cooking area. With 542 square inches of space, you can easily grill up a feast for your family or friends.

The cooking grates are made of porcelain-coated cast iron, which is known for its excellent heat retention and distribution. This ensures that your food cooks evenly, giving you those perfect grill marks every time. The grill also includes a digital control board that blends seamlessly into the overall design. This makes it easy to manage the temperature without any fuss. The control board is intuitive, with a clear LED display that's visible even in bright daylight. However, the Pit Boss Navigator 550 isn't exactly lightweight. Weighing in at around 143.3 pounds, it's not the most portable option out there. If you plan on moving it around frequently, you might find its heft a bit challenging. It does come with wheels, but maneuvering it over uneven surfaces can be a bit tricky.

Storage is another aspect worth mentioning. It comes equipped with a modular front-to-bottom folding shelf and a solid side shelf, providing ample space for your tools and ingredients. The side shelf is particularly handy for keeping marinades and sauces within arm's reach. Additionally, it features built-in tool hooks. Overall, the Pit Boss Navigator 550 combines solid build quality with thoughtful design features, although its weight might be a consideration for some. It's clear that this grill is designed with both functionality and durability in mind, making it a solid choice for those who take their grilling seriously.

The performance of the Pit Boss Navigator 550 is quite impressive for both seasoned grillers and beginners. This pellet barbecue offers consistent heat distribution, ensuring your food is cooked evenly every time. The grill uses 100% natural hardwood pellets, providing a smoky flavor that enhances the taste of your meals.

One of the standout features of this grill is its temperature control. With a digital control board, you can easily set the temperature anywhere between 180°F and 500°F. This wide range allows you to smoke, grill, bake, roast, sear, braise, and barbecue with ease. The ability to dial in specific temperatures means you can cook a variety of dishes without worrying about burning or undercooking.

Temperature Consistency

The Navigator 550 maintains a steady temperature throughout the cooking process, thanks to its fan-forced convection cooking system. This system circulates heat and smoke evenly, so you don't have to constantly adjust the settings. However, in windy or extremely cold conditions, you might notice slight fluctuations. It's something to keep in mind if you're planning to grill in less-than-ideal weather.

Quick Heat-Up

This grill heats up quickly, reaching your desired temperature in about 10-15 minutes. This speed is a real time-saver, especially when you're eager to start cooking. The rapid heat-up is facilitated by the powerful auger system, which feeds pellets efficiently into the firepot.

Smoke Control

For those who love a smoky flavor, the Navigator 550 provides ample smoke control. You can adjust the level of smoke to suit your taste, whether you prefer a light hint of smoke or a heavy infusion. However, some users have mentioned that at the lowest temperature settings, the smoke can be a bit overpowering, so it's essential to monitor this based on your preferences.

Overall, the Pit Boss Navigator 550 delivers robust performance with reliable temperature control, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game. Just be prepared for minor adjustments in adverse weather and keep an eye on the smoke levels to ensure the best results.

The Pit Boss Navigator 550 is designed with user-friendliness in mind, making it a great option for both seasoned grillers and those just starting out. When it comes to setting up, the assembly process is relatively straightforward. The instruction manual is clear, and most users find that they can have the grill up and running in about an hour or two. However, it is a bit on the heavy side, so having an extra pair of hands can be helpful during assembly.

Once assembled, the grill’s controls are intuitive. The dial-in digital control board with LED readout is easy to navigate, allowing you to set your desired temperature with a simple adjustment. The grill features an automatic start system, but it does not have an automatic shut-off system; instead, you can use the digital control board to manage the temperature and set it as needed.

One of the standout features is the 16-pound hopper capacity, which means you can enjoy longer cooking sessions without constantly needing to refill the pellets. This is a huge plus for those who love hosting BBQs or cooking up large feasts. However, some users have noted that the hopper design could be improved to reduce pellet jams, which occasionally require manual intervention to clear.

Cleaning and maintenance are also simplified. The grill comes with porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates that help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Additionally, the grill has a modular front-to-bottom shelf and built-in tool hooks for added convenience.

Overall, the Pit Boss Navigator 550 scores high on ease of use, making it a practical choice for anyone looking to enjoy the benefits of pellet grilling without a steep learning curve. Just be prepared to occasionally troubleshoot minor issues like pellet jams, which can be a bit of a hassle.

When you crack open the box of the Pit Boss Navigator 550, you're greeted with everything you need to get started on your grilling adventures. Let's break down what's inside:

• Main Grill Unit: The star of the show, this is the core component that houses all the action. It's sturdy and ready to be assembled.
• Hopper: This is where you'll load up your pellets. It's designed to hold 16 pounds, so you won't be constantly refilling.
• Grill Grates: These are the surfaces where your food will cook, made from porcelain-coated cast iron to withstand high temperatures.
• Temperature Probe: This nifty tool helps you keep an eye on your meat's internal temperature, ensuring perfectly cooked dishes every time. One meat probe is included.
• Legs and Wheels: Essential for mobility, these parts make it easy to move the grill around your patio or backyard. The grill features reinforced legs and rubber casters/wheels.
• Assembly Instructions: A step-by-step guide to help you put everything together. While the instructions are generally clear, some users have noted that they could be more detailed in certain areas.
• Grill Cover and Shelves: A custom-fitting grill cover, a front-to-bottom folding shelf, and a solid side shelf are included, along with built-in tool hooks.

While the Pit Boss Navigator 550 includes most essentials, some might find the absence of additional accessories like a pellet scoop a bit of a letdown. However, these can usually be purchased separately if needed. Overall, the box gives you a solid start to get grilling right away, with minimal fuss.

Keeping your grill in tip-top shape is essential for extending its lifespan and ensuring it performs at its best. Let's talk about maintenance and cleaning for the Pit Boss Navigator 550.

First off, regular cleaning is a must. The grease management system is quite efficient, but you'll still want to empty the grease bucket regularly to prevent any overflow or buildup. It's also a good idea to wash the grease bucket with warm soapy water, even if you use a grease bucket liner.

Cleaning the Grill Grates

Cleaning the grill grates is pretty straightforward. A good wire brush is your best friend here. After each cooking session, let the grates cool a bit and then give them a thorough scrub. For tougher grime, you can also use methods like baking soda paste, degreasers, or soaking the grates in hot water with dish soap. This will help remove any stuck-on food particles and keep your grill ready for the next barbecue session.

Fire Pot and Ash Clean-up

The fire pot is where all the magic happens, but it also collects ash over time. It's recommended to clean out the ash every few uses to maintain efficient burning and prevent any blockages. Simply vacuum or scoop it out when the grill is completely cool. Also, ensure the burn pot is clear of obstructions before firing up your grill.

Exterior and Hopper Maintenance

As for the exterior, a damp cloth will do wonders to keep the grill looking shiny. The pellet hopper should be checked occasionally to ensure there’s no moisture buildup, which could lead to pellet clumping. If it does happen, just empty it and wipe it dry. Additionally, after a period of storage or non-use, check the hopper for foreign objects and ensure the burn grate is clear of obstructions.

• Check the grease bucket and empty it regularly, washing it with warm soapy water if necessary.
• Brush the grill grates after each use, and consider deeper cleaning methods periodically.
• Clean out the fire pot and ash every few uses.
• Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth.
• Ensure the pellet hopper is dry to prevent clumping.

Now, not everything is perfect. Some users have noted that the grease tray can be a bit tricky to clean due to its size and placement. It might take a bit more effort, but regular attention will help keep it manageable. After a thorough cleaning, it's a good idea to do a burn-off to remove any cleaning residue by filling the hopper and letting the grill run at high heat for about 15 minutes.

Overall, the Pit Boss Navigator 550 requires a bit of love and care, but it’s not too demanding. A little regular maintenance goes a long way in keeping your grill in prime condition for all your future barbecuing adventures.

When looking at pellet barbecues, the Pit Boss Navigator 550 finds itself in a competitive space with several strong contenders. Let's see how it stacks up against some of its peers.

Traeger Pro 575

The Traeger Pro 575 is often a go-to choice for many barbecue enthusiasts. It offers a reliable Wi-Fi connection and a more advanced app experience for remote control using WiFIRE® technology. However, the Pit Boss Navigator 550 shines with its value for money, offering similar grilling space at a lower price point. While Traeger's app might be more polished, the Navigator's straightforward control panel is perfect for those who prefer simplicity.

Camp Chef DLX WIFI

Another competitor, the Camp Chef DLX WIFI, boasts impressive temperature control features with its Gen 3 WIFI controller and PID technology. It also offers a handy ash cleanout system, making maintenance a breeze. On the flip side, the Pit Boss Navigator 550 offers a slightly larger cooking area and is generally easier to assemble. If you're not too worried about a bit of extra cleaning, the Navigator provides a solid grilling experience.

Z Grills 700D4E

The Z Grills 700D4E offers a larger cooking space and a robust build. It's a great option for those who love hosting large gatherings. However, the Pit Boss Navigator 550 is more compact, making it a better fit for those with limited patio space. Additionally, the Navigator's digital control board is user-friendly, which might appeal to those new to pellet grilling.

Each of these competitors has its strengths, but the Pit Boss Navigator 550 stands out for its affordability and straightforward design. It might not have all the bells and whistles of its rivals, but it delivers solid performance for the price.

Video by: Barbecue Chef Rohan

The Pit Boss Navigator 550 is a solid choice for anyone looking to get into pellet grilling without breaking the bank. Its blend of affordability and functionality makes it appealing to both newbies and seasoned grillers. The grill’s performance in terms of temperature control is impressive, allowing you to cook a variety of dishes with ease, including smoking, baking, braising, roasting, grilling, barbecuing, char-grilling, and searing.

However, it's worth noting that while the grill offers plenty of features, like any product, it’s not without its quirks. Some users might find the assembly process a bit time-consuming. Also, the cleaning routine might require a little extra effort if you’re used to simpler grills.

On the plus side, the grill's design and build quality are commendable, offering durability and a sleek look. The cooking space, with 542 square inches of cooking surface, is ample for family gatherings and small parties, ensuring you can cater to multiple guests without a hitch.

In comparison to its competitors, the Navigator 550 stands out with its value for money. While there are more advanced models on the market, they often come with a heftier price tag. This grill offers a good balance of features and cost, making it a worthy investment for most backyard chefs.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and efficient pellet barbecue that doesn't require you to splurge, the Pit Boss Navigator 550 should definitely be on your shortlist.

• What type of pellets can I use with the Pit Boss Navigator 550?
  You can use 100% all-natural hardwood pellets. Just make sure they're dry and stored properly to avoid any clumping or moisture issues.
• How often do I need to refill the hopper?
  It depends on the cooking temperature and duration. The 16-pound hopper capacity can last several hours, but high-heat grilling will consume pellets more quickly.
• Is it difficult to clean the grill?
  Not really The grill has porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates that make cleaning pretty straightforward. However, you'll need to regularly empty the ash from the firepot and wipe down surfaces to keep it in top shape.
• Can I use it in cold weather?
  Yes, the grill is designed to handle various weather conditions, including cold. Just be prepared for slightly longer preheating times as the grill compensates for the lower ambient temperature, and you might burn through more pellets.
• Does the Pit Boss Navigator 550 come with a cover?
  Yes, the Pit Boss Navigator 550 comes with a custom-fitting grill cover.
• Is there a warranty?
  Yes, Pit Boss offers a 5-year warranty on their grills. It's always a good idea to check the specifics on their website or the documentation that comes with the grill to understand the coverage.
• How accurate is the temperature control?
  The temperature control is generally reliable, using a dial-in digital control board with LED readout and stainless-steel meat probes. Regular maintenance and pellet quality can help maintain accuracy.

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