Smokin' Brothers Premier 30 Pellet Grill Review

Overview

The Smokin’ Brothers Premier 30 Pellet Grill is a standout choice for barbecue enthusiasts looking for a versatile, American-made pellet smoker. As the best-selling model from this family-owned company, it offers a robust set of features designed to deliver consistent, high-quality results for smoking, grilling, and even baking. With a total cooking surface of 792 square inches, a front-loading hopper, and a durable build, this grill is engineered for performance and convenience.

Key Features

Cooking Surface: 792 square inches, including a removable upper cooking grid, providing ample space for large cuts of meat or multiple dishes.
Hopper Design: Front-loading 20-pound hopper doubles as a workspace, allowing for extended cooks without frequent refills (uses approximately ½ pound of pellets per hour when smoking).
Temperature Control: Equipped with a PID Program Control and a state-of-the-art digital controller for precise temperature maintenance within 1 degree, ranging from 180°F to over 600°F.
Construction: Heavy-duty 12-gauge steel lid, 1-inch double-wall insulated firebox, and a glossy powder-coat finish for durability and year-round cooking.
Ease of Use: Comes nearly fully assembled, requiring only minor setup (e.g., attaching the handle, grease bucket, exhaust cap, and casters), which takes about 5 minutes. Features an electronic ceramic igniter for simple startup.
Additional Features: Center smoke stack for even heat distribution, multi-directional casters for mobility, and a larger probe port for multiple meat probes. Optional accessories include a side shelf (SB-H201), additional top grid (SB-H561), and a built-in kit (SB-H130) for outdoor kitchens.

Performance

The Premier 30 excels in delivering consistent results across various cooking methods. Its PID controller and convection fan ensure even heat distribution, eliminating hot spots and the need for a rotisserie. During testing, the grill performed admirably:

Smoking: Produces beautiful smoke and maintains low temperatures (e.g., 180°F) for slow-cooking briskets or ribs, with users reporting excellent results using almond or plum wood pellets.
Baking: The even heat distribution and deflector plate make it suitable for baking. A puff pastry tart baked at 400°F for 40 minutes came out evenly cooked and perfectly browned.
Grilling: While high-heat searing is challenging without the optional BBQ Hack Griddle Insert, the grill can reach temperatures exceeding 600°F, minimizing flare-ups and optimizing pellet efficiency with Heatwave technology.

The WiFi-enabled Que-View controller (included in the Premier Plus model) allows remote monitoring and precise control, adding convenience for long cooks.

Pros

Made in the USA: Manufactured in Southeast Missouri with high-quality materials, including 304 stainless steel accents and a welded frame for durability.
Versatile Cooking: Suitable for smoking, grilling, and baking, with a wide temperature range and even heat distribution.
User-Friendly: Easy setup, intuitive digital controls, and a front hopper that doubles as a work surface enhance usability.
Durability: Robust construction with a double-wall insulated firebox allows for year-round cooking, even in cold weather.
Customer Support: Smokin’ Brothers is praised for excellent customer service and a commitment to innovation, with users noting the company’s dedication to standing behind their product.

Cons

High-Heat Grilling Limitation: Achieving a deep sear is difficult without the optional griddle insert, as radiant heat is lost when the lid is opened.
Price Point: At approximately $1,699.99, it’s a premium investment, and some users note the cooking chamber metal could be thicker for the price.
Limited Distribution: Availability may be restricted to specific dealers or in-store pickup, which could be inconvenient for some buyers.

User Feedback

Users consistently praise the Premier 30 for its reliability and ease of use. One owner reported using a Traditional 30 model for five years without issues before upgrading to a larger model, highlighting its longevity and performance. Another user described it as a “tank” due to its welded construction, contrasting it favorably with competitors using less durable methods. Social media feedback emphasizes the grill’s ability to produce “perfect” results with no hot spots, making it ideal for family gatherings or competitions. However, some users desire a more robust mobile app experience compared to competitors like Traeger.

Verdict

The Smokin’ Brothers Premier 30 Pellet Grill earns high marks for its quality construction, versatile performance, and thoughtful design. It’s an excellent choice for serious home cooks or competitive pitmasters who value American craftsmanship and consistent results. While it may not excel at high-heat searing without additional accessories and comes at a premium price, its durability, precise temperature control, and ample cooking space make it a worthy investment for those passionate about barbecue. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a reliable, all-in-one pellet grill.