Pellet grills have been rising, with companies like Traeger performing amazingly well in this area. However, relatively new entries like Rec Tec and Z Grills have received a positive reception.
If you are undecided about which brand to buy, you have come to the right place as I will compare the two brands to help you make an informed decision.
Rec Tec and Z Grill design quality pellet grills, so the best brand will depend on your needs. Generally, if you are concerned about the price, opt for a Z Grill. But if your aim is a long-lasting grill, a Rec Tec grill will suit you.
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Difference Between Z Grills And Rec Tec
As I have said earlier, these brands are new market players. Z Grills was started in 2017 after a crowdfunding campaign.
However, the developers had already been helping other reputable companies build quality grills for over 30 years.
While the company is relatively new to the market, the people behind it have years of experience and knowledge in manufacturing quality products.
Z Grills is among the best companies designing per square inch pellet grills. They focus on high-quality multi-purpose grills that are stable and long-lasting.
The best thing about this company is that while they offer value, they don’t overprice their models.
So you don’t have to break the bank to get a good grill with this brand.
Rec Tec was developed in 2009, which is a bit older than Z Grills. It started with two friends who love barbecuing in the garage.
But today, it has become one of the key players in the pellet grill industry. Rec Tec grills are made in China, but the company also manufactures computers in Georgia.
This manufacturer designs a wide range of pellet grills that can be recognized by their handles shaped like a bull horn.
The company focuses on high-quality products meant to last a long time. They design their grills using quality materials and superior technology.
I should mention that at first, the company was called REC TEC. But in 2020, they changed their name to lowercase recteq.
Z Grills and Rec Tec manufacture quality pellet smoker brands. But the difference is that Z Grills focuses on affordability while Rec Tec focuses on durability.
Are Z Grills Any Good
Z Grills are good grills. You can use them to create a smoky flavor that most traditional grills can’t give you.
The company produces various wood pellet grills that offer different flavors. So, users can choose what suits them best.
You can use these grills to smoke, grill, roast, bbq, bake, braise, sear, and cook almost everything you cook in your kitchen.
Individuals are using Z Grills to smoke bacon and salami, bake and sear cakes, and cook meat using low heat, among other things.
So, you can cook food like ribs and briskets slow or make your smoked ham without losing the smoky flavor.
Are Z Grills Worth The Money
Z Grills consider itself an affordable company making pellet grills. They are less expensive than most of their competitors.
And while their prices are low, don’t assume that their grills are not high quality. Their products are worth the hype and the money.
With a Z Grill, you will get the same features as a Traeger grill without denting your pocket.
The grills offer durability and versatility. It is worth every dollar you spend on it as it is long-lasting. They are made with durable material, not to mention they offer excellent control.
I also love that their models are easy to use and maintain. While many people do not know how to use pellet grills, Z Grills models are straightforward.
Their team is on standby to help you with the information you need. When you invest in this grill, you are investing in quality.
Z Grills Features
Beautiful Design
When you look at a Z Grill, you will notice that it looks similar to Traeger. But it might be more beautiful.
The company designs its models with style in mind. So for people going for uniqueness, you may want to consider products from this brand.
Great Build
One of the things I love about Z Grills is that they are very durable. This manufacturer uses solid steel, unlike others who use a cheesy thin metal on the grill’s surface.
Like a premium smoker, Z Grills products have a strong and thick metal body. Therefore, you can expect them to last for a long time.
However, proper care is still crucial for your grill to last long.
Ease of Use
Z Grills are straightforward pellet grills. They are easy to use, even for beginners.
You only need to pour the pellets into your hopper, choose the right temperature, and prepare what you want to cook.
Even newbies admit that these grills are pleasantly easy to use.
Excellent Temperature Control
Z Grills designs their models with PID temperature control.
This feature allows users to choose the temperature they want and be assured that the grill’s convection heat distribution system will stay at the selected temperature until you finish cooking.
This extensive ability to control temperatures makes this company stand out from standard grill manufacturers.
I should also mention that the display is easy to read. So you can quickly check the temperature of your food on the grill with a glance.
Z Grills Review
Z Grills have received a lot of positive reviews. Of course, negative reviews cannot miss as this is common with all brands.
However, many of its customers seem to love the experience offered by this company’s grills.
Many people are impressed by the customer service the Z Grills team offers. They are so quick to respond to queries, even in their emails.
Another thing individuals love is that the company makes it easy and pain-free to assemble their grills.
They offer step-by-step pictures and not just words. Therefore, it shouldn’t take you long to have your grill ready.
Additionally, I noticed that many people love the temperature control on these grills.
However, some people complained about the warranty, and some complained about the durability of these models. But overall, this company performs excellently in the market.
Which Is The Best Z Grill
My top pick in the Z Grills product lines is the Z Grills 700D4E Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker.
Although it is highly priced than previous models in this series, you will get exceptional service from this grill.
The grill has convenient features like a large and reliable temperature screen fix, a PID temperature controller, and an easy pellet clean-out.
It still lacks fancy features like Wi-Fi connectivity and a mobile app. However, it focuses on efficiency, quality, and heat maintenance.
It offers ample cooking space and has a closed cabinet that you can use for storage beneath the main chamber.
The grill’s temperature ranges from 180-450 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use it for grilling various meals under different temperatures.
It is made of stainless steel, meaning durability will not be an issue with this model. It also has four rotating casters, allowing users to move it around quickly.
But I should mention that the handle is a bit awkward to grab. Therefore, you need to take care when opening the lid.
Otherwise, you risk burning yourself. Also worth pointing out is that it only has one shelf area.
Thus, you may need to set an extra side table to lay the items you need when cooking.
Is Rec Tec A Good Grill
Rec Tec produces a range of high-quality products. They do not use any cheap parts in constructing their grills.
For this reason, their models have withstood the test of time. Your Rec Tec grill will last many years with proper care and maintenance.
The company pays attention to detail, ensuring that they design models with durable construction. While the grills look good, they do not sacrifice the quality.
I also like that they offer excellent heat control and outstanding performance; some models also have digital control options.
You can use the pellet to sear, grill, smoke, and do everything else you want to with a grill.
Are Rec Tec Grills Worth It
Now, Rec Tec grills aren’t cheap. But, while their grills are a bit pricey, they are worth every dollar. The company makes them using high-quality, long-lasting materials.
Even by looking at them, you can tell they’re sturdy and won’t give you a hard time in the kitchen.
So if you are going for cheapness, this brand will disappoint you.
Everything is controlled in most Rec Tec models. Therefore, your work is just to set the right temperature and allow the grill to cook for you.
Versatility is also another thing that makes these grills worth it. You can bake, grill, and sear food using these models.
They offer a variable temperature that allows you to cook several meals simultaneously.
Rec Tec Grill Features
Quality Construction
One of the factors to consider when buying a grill is the construction. You must ensure that it is built with quality materials and that the parts fit together perfectly. Rec Tec excels in this area.
They pay close attention to their grills, ensuring they design them to last. Their grill bodies are made of thick 304 stainless steel.
This material is durable and retains heat exceptionally well, like ceramic or cast iron, without getting too hot.
Excellent Temperature Control
This is yet another area where Rec Tec shines. They design their grills with a wide range of temperatures allowing users to cook several meals.
Depending on what you like, you can opt for low and slow cooking or high and fast cooking.
A grill that gives you this versatility Is undoubtedly worth the money.
Great Performance
Rec Tec grills combine superior construction with quality materials to provide excellent performance.
Their grills offer a large cooking surface and precise cooking. Some even include digital controls and monitoring systems, making your work in the kitchen easy.
And they do all these without sacrificing the design.
Rec Tec also includes advanced features in its products. Some include automated features that allow you to grill and smoke quickly.
They come with Wi-Fi control and dual meat probes.
Ease of Use
Rec Tec designs very easy-to-use barbeque units. Even if it is your first time using a pellet smoker, you will not have a difficult time with this brand.
Since they have automated features, you’ll worry less about maintaining the temperature in your grill or adding more pellets to your firepot, as the grill will do for you.
You need to push a button to light the grill. Also, most of their grills do not require babysitting.
Rec Tec Grill Reviews
In terms of reviews, this company seems to be doing great. Many people were pleased with the flavorful smoke that their grills produce.
They love that their grills have excellent quality control that helps maintain their moisture content.
The grills are lower in ash and powder residue compared to other grills in the market.
And customers seem to love that they can cook different things as the pellets react fast to temperature changes.
However, some people complained about the price of the grills. But as I’ve said earlier, this is expected since the company uses expensive quality materials on their models.
Aside from price, there aren’t any other negative reviews about this brand.
Which Rec Tec Grill Is Best
The best Rec Tec grill is the Rec Tec RT-700, also called the bull. It is a quality smoker that offers the best value for money.
The company makes it using steel components and includes a PID temperature controller. Although a mid-sized smoker, it outperforms many larger models.
The cooking chamber, firepots, grates, smoke cap, hardware, heat deflectors, and drip pans are made of stainless steel.
Also included is a ceramic ignitor rod that resists rust and corrosion. Thus, you can get many years of service from this model.
The grill offers a cooking space of 702 square inches, which can fit six racks of ribs. You also get enough height for whole turkeys or beer chickens.
I love the PID-style Smart grill technology controller, which allows excellent temperature control. The grill features a temperature range of 200 – 00 degrees Fahrenheit.
Sure, the coolest settings seem higher than standard pellet smokers, but most times, you won’t need temperatures below 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
I should also mention that the grill can connect to Wi-Fi, allowing you to control it from your phone, and includes extras like a grill cover, 2 non-stick mats, and 200 pounds of pellets.
Pros And Cons of Z Grills And Rec Tec
The best thing about Z Grills is that they are affordable. Imagine getting a quality grill at half the price of most pellet grills.
I also love that their models are easy to use and offer enough cooking space to grill various things.
However, the company needs to improve on the quality. I have seen several complaints about durability.
I also think that moving forward, the company needs to include advanced features like mobile apps and Wi-Fi connectivity.
On the other hand, Rec Tec grills are durable. I like that the company uses high-quality materials that make their models long-lasting.
They also design them with innovative technology, allowing more convenience and versatility. However, some people can’t afford the price.
Also, I’ve seen some complaints about the grills having wobbly legs, making it hard to give them a thorough cleaning.
Z Grills vs Rec Tec Cost
Z Grills are cheaper and more affordable than Rec Tec. In fact, this is one of the selling points for this company.
They design their grills for amateurs and pro grillers without exaggerating the price. Therefore, opt for a grill from this company if you are a bit short of cash.
Z Grills vs Rec Tec: Which Is Easier To Use
Both grills are easy to use as they include the PID temperature control system, which allows users to control the temperatures easily.
However, the added advantage of Rec Tec grills is that they come with an app that lets you control your grill from anywhere.
Z Grills vs Rec Tec: Which Last Longer
Rec Tec takes the crown home in this area. The manufacturer uses high-quality materials which last for many years.
But with proper care, your Z Grill will offer you long-term service.
Helpful Tips To Know About Z Grills vs Rec Tec
Z Grills and Rec Tec design great pellet grills that both beginners and expert grillers can use. So, how then do you choose the right brand for you?
Here are tips to help you get started:
- Think About Your Budget – if you are a budget-conscious person, opt for a Z Grill as the company is generally affordable.
- Consider Your Needs – Rec Tec will offer more flexibility if you grill for a large crowd as its cooking surface is more.
- Decide If You Need Extras – if you will, Rec Tec is the best choice as the grills come with many accessories.
- Determine How Much Space You Have – Z Grills are an excellent choice for those with limited space.
Final Thoughts
I have come to the end of my Z Grills vs Rec Tec review. And as I’ve said, both companies offer value for money.
So, what is suitable for you varies depending on your needs and preferences. Rec Tec grills are suitable for you if you prioritize quality build and don’t mind the extra price.
But if price is your main concern, a Z Grill may work for you.