Can the Navigator 6-Series sear steaks?

Not really. It tops out at 420 F, which is fine for roasting and finishing but below the 500 F-plus a searing grill reaches. Use a cast-iron pan or a separate grill for a hard sear.

How much food fits on it?

2,224 square inches across five racks. That is enough for several pork butts, multiple rib racks or a full packer brisket with room left for sides.

Does it need to be plugged in?

Yes. The controller, igniter and Wi-Fi need a standard outlet, so place it within reach of power. The pellets feed from the hopper, not from a gas line.

How often do I refill pellets?

The 75 lb hopper is sized for long cooks. At low smoking temps most owners get through an overnight brisket without refilling, though cold, windy weather burns pellets faster.

Is it hard to assemble?

It arrives mostly flat-packed and takes about one to two hours with two people. The cabinet is heavy at 173 lbs, so plan where it will live before building it.

Can I control it from my phone away from home?

Yes, over Wi-Fi once it is paired to your network. Bluetooth works only at close range, so Wi-Fi is what you want for errands or overnight monitoring.

Where is the Navigator 6-Series Vertical Pellet Smoker cheapest?

At BbqGuys, for $899.00, as of our latest check.

Where can I buy the Navigator 6-Series Vertical Pellet Smoker?

2 stores we checked sell it, including BbqGuys, The Home Depot.

Navigator 6-Series Vertical Pellet Price History: Lowest $899.00

What reviewers say

Owners of the Navigator vertical series generally praise the rack space and steady low-temperature control, and app control gets credit for making overnight cooks easier. Common complaints center on the 420 F limit, uneven heat between top and bottom racks, and the upkeep of a tall cabinet smoker.

What people mention

CapacityPraisedOwners say the five racks swallow brisket, ribs and sides at once for parties.
Temperature controlPraisedReviewers report steady low temps and like the 5-degree adjustments.
App controlPraisedWi-Fi and Bluetooth monitoring is called convenient for overnight cooks.
Heat distributionCriticisedSome owners find upper racks cook faster than lower ones and rotate food.
Max temperatureCriticisedThe 420 F ceiling is seen as too low for searing or high-heat roasting.
AssemblyMixedSetup is doable but takes a couple of hours and a second person.

From BbqGuys

Wi-Fi & Bluetooth control lets you monitor and adjust temps remotely
5 degree temp increments (130-420 F) for precise control
2,224 sq. in. cooking space across 5 oversized racks
75 lb. hopper and convection airflow for long, even cooking
High-temp seal and viewing window retain heat and let you check food without opening the door
Rapid igniter and durable steel construction

Materials: Powder coated steel exterior; porcelain coated steel cooking grates
Fit: Freestanding vertical smoker; some assembly required
Guarantee: Limited five (5) year warranty against defects and workmanship on all parts from date of sale by original owner; labor not included.
Returns: 30-day returns on new, unused, unassembled items in original packaging; full refund minus original and return shipping; no restocking fee.
Shipping: Free shipping on orders over the threshold, continental US only; this item leaves the warehouse within 1-3 business days; freight items ship on a pallet.

About the Navigator 6-Series Vertical Pellet Smoker

The Pit Boss Navigator 6-Series is a freestanding vertical pellet smoker for residential use. It has a powder coated steel exterior and a black finish.

Fuel: Pellets
Type: Vertical, freestanding smoker
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Materials: Powder coated steel exterior; porcelain coated steel grates
Dimensions: 29.1" W x 43.9" D x 53.3" H
Weight: 173 lbs
Color: Black