*READ THIS!!* I'm hearing that the upgraded controller does not work for the vertical smokers...I reached out to Pit Boss to confirm this but as of now it's looking like the vertical Pro Series 4 controller can NOT be upgraded to WiFi...sorry about that! *INSIDE CHAMBER COOKING SPACE:* *Pro Series 4:* 32" Tall 20" Wide 12" Deep 5 Racks @ 20"x12" *Brunswick:* 32" Tall 22" Wide 14" Deep 4 Racks @ 22" x 13"
Wish I saw this before purchasing the controller... Only bought it due to the link being in your video description. Now I have to go through the hassle of trying to return it. I do appreciate the great content you have put out and will stay subscribed to your channel because of that. P.S. may want to remove the link from the description and put a note in there (not everyone scrolls through the comments).
Good news everyone! Now the Pro Series 4 v2 does have WiFi and Bluetooth. It also has the drip tray like the Brunswick. It also has upgraded locking mechanism.
My new pro series 4 has the same grease deflector and clean outs as the platinum and the castors are bigger. It has different controls with the WiFi AP. However it's the same size as you pro series. Both are nice units. Great video.
First time smoker here and just subscribed to your Channel. Putting our new Pit Boss Pro Series 4 to use for the first time today.. 13.5 lb turkey. Thank you for all the set up steps and info. About another hour and the bird will be ready. Looking great so far!
My favorite part on the Brunswick is the light inside. That is a game changer for me. NOW if I can ever find one to buy. I'm giving my Step daughter and her bf my existing electric smoker. 🤞
I just bought this unit it was $500 and I worked on this unit more than I've cooked on it. Day one the screw that feeds pellets into the burner wouldn't turn so after calling the factory they told me to drain all the pellets and turn it over on its side that was 80 lb of pellets. When we went to turn it on its side the handle on the back broke off because of bad welds and the unit fell to the ground almost crushing my friends foot. After drilling out cross-threaded screws in the cover over the motor we found the plug for the fan motor was not tie wrapped up and laying across the fan for the screw. And then phillips-head screw and part of a rivet fell out on the ground. Then the screw started working. cooked on it one time and now the ashtray will not go in or out due to the metal warping from the Heat. The company asked me to take it back to my local Walmart where I purchase it. I already had paid someone to deliver it and put it together now they want me to pay to have someone to take it back to the store. where they are out of stock of this units. Go to UA-cam and look up ashtray problems with this unit and you'll see where they suggest you use a C-clamp and Bend the top of the ashtray back down about every 3 months unacceptable. I just hope no one else has these problems it's very frustrating after spending this kind of money for this unit.
Nice video, Sarge! Tuna has one suggestion, though. Tuna noticed right away when you were measuring height, that you measured the entire height with the feet.. That is a good measurement to have, but Tuna believes that knowing the height of the actual smoking area (no feet measured) would be good to show. The feet look about the same height, but the one of the left looks a little shorter. Also looking at actual smoking area measurements, it might be worth it to also do an internal measurement as it will most likely be a little smaller that the outside measurements, and Tuna feels that a lot of people might find that information useful... Congrats on 6k! You're almost at 6.5k now! Awesome job, Sarge! All the best!
You popped into my feed today and I was already interested in the Brunswick so I immediately clicked and subscribed. Looking forward to seeing how it cooks.
As an owner of that exact pro series model, that smoker is great. Always runs 15 degrees less than the knob though. But what I really want to see is the internal components after say a year or two of use. I just had to replace all my internals (auger motor, fan, burn stick). Couldn't replace the burn pot since it was fused with so much rust. Hopefully it'll last a bit longer.
Smoked our thanksgiving Turkey it was amazing 18 lbs cooked at 250 tell it reached 145 internal slowed the process down let it smoke at 200 for 1 1/2 then back to 250 told time smoked was about 5 1/2 hrs ,, we had no turkey left to make sandwiches for the next day so sad the next day !!! I also hung the Turkey in my smoker using the Oklahoma Joe’s turkey hanger works great wish I could post pics ,,
Do you have any updates on the Brunswick? Does the new heat system keep the temperatures on the top more consistent than the older Pro series? Great video.
Between the two does one produce a better bark and flavor? I started with a pitboss entry level horizontal smoker and I'm looking to upgrade. I didn't realize how much I would love smoking meat. Amazing video!
This video is now a bit misleading (May 2021) since the newest Pro series (Lowes) has been upgraded to wifi (Unit is now on the side and works with the SmokeIt app), has the grease trap tray over the water pan, removable grease cleanout, removable ash unit/ burn pot and has been reduced to 4 shelves, spaced farther apart. It also has the heavier handle on back like the Brunswick and it appears that the wheels are now larger on the Pro series as well. I'm not sure what all has changed beyond that since I've only owned my Pro series for a short time (and love it!). The only thing that's somewhat annoying is that the hopper doesn't empty completely through the trap door. You can reach in the little hole and scoop some more pellets out but it really takes a wet/dry vac with a long extension (or hose) to get the remainder out.
Series 5 and7 the racks are adjustable. BUT, the 3,4,5, and 7 controllers are garbage which is why people used to replace them with Recteq controllers (until they stopped selling them w/o a Recteq serial #). If you're buying new, get the Brunswick IMO. Seems to be much improved. Does the new PB controller stop the fan sometimes? The old PB controllers ran the fan constantly, one advantage of many of the Recteq controller which pulses the fan. Great video, thank you!
Late comment, The new unit looks nice, has some cool useful features, Clean out, grease pan and most of all larger casters ! Unlike the tiny casters on the series 4&5. that get caught up on everything while moving the unit. However the one thing that concerns me about the newer unit. As all smokers, creosote builds up . Most of us old dawgs from the days of the stick smokers, We call that flavor build up ☺ Sadly sooner or later has to be removed never the less. I pondered the thought of excessive creosote build up. As the smoke is redirected through the unit walls via "duct work". (cool idea but) if a creosote fire did flare up you're screwed. 2nd, The electronics on the top is nice, As heat rises and is not good. Electronic systems to get over heated can possibly cause a system failure should that be a problem if it were to get "too hot" . Otherwise it looks nice, But I will stick with my series 5 Copperhead. My Oklahoma Joe stick smoker is still my top favorite. Takes a lot of work and baby sitting to get that "just right smoke on". But always a great back up when technology goes awry . The choice of wood is far more expansive too. As I like Mulberry for a good smoke.
As another guy stated the pro series 4v2 is great with the wifi and Bluetooth along with the grease pull out and the heat deflector like the brunswick.
One thing that I find is REALLY nice, is the controls on top. I've had my Pitt Boss series 3 Copperhead for 2 years and when I cook at high temps the digital controller gets hot and goes blank. I have to actually pull the control box from the frame, so it cools and I get a digital display back. I am definitely liking that control box on top! Waiting patiently for the Brunswick to be available to buy!
I’ve never had that issue but agree. It’s a very welcome improvement! Mine would always get covered in sauce when I would pull out a try to coat the ribs 😂
My Brunswick lasted 6 months before I had a hopper fire. Yes I cleaned out the ashes after every use. Pitboss won't replace it without receipt iv since lost. So no its a outdoor cabinet for grates and tools.
PIT BOSS needs to update the SMOKE IT APP and the firmware via Wi-Fi! No excuse not to! I have this exact same model and it needs a tighter temperature gradation!
Lots of improvements. I agree, the Pro is great, but those little improvements are nice: clean out tray, controller up higher, the wheels, the deflector shield and the like. I have cooked on my for 4 times now and the results have been superb. I am new to smok'in. Question: my boss probe malfunctioned and shows a way off temp. Fortunately I had an external auxiliary thermo. Any issues out there from others?
My probes from the Pro Series 4 and the Brunswick are still new because I use other probes from my InkBird that I trust. Not knocking the Pit Boss ones but those temp differences in stock probes are not helpful when you are trying to hit exact temps with Brisket and Pulled Pork. I think you can calibrate the probs but I’m not 100% certain on that.
Curious how they handled the ash that is blown out of the fire pot from the fan. I clean that and the fire pot every smoke. Wish they would show more how that was designed and pit together.
I found it strange that the heat shield was bolted in on mine (Brunswick). I removed the screws to go access to it as I please and it's very easy to clean!
You need to clean out from under that heat deflector on the Brunswick. if it’s like my pro 4 series 2 it builds up under there. And it looks like it’s the same setup.
Its nice to know what performs well but more importantly, the durability, longevity and customer service of these brands are critical!! So far, based on Trust Pilot reviews many if not all of them have terrible customer service and durability ratings. Many have main parts that do not last and are difficult to replace. I want a smoker that I do not have to deal with other than keeping it clean for several years.
I have the exact same pro series as in the video. Going on 4 years. Maybe 2 dozen long cooks on it. Spent most of its life covered outdoors in south florida. Purchased all replacement internal parts (auger motor, fan, burn stick, burn pot). Easy to replace all except burn pot as it was rusted and fused so badly to where it connects to. My fault for poor storage. But overall it's held up great. It's a complicated cooker with electric components, moving parts and lots of thin metal, treat it as such clean and maintain and store properly and it will treat you well.
@grillsergeant The Pit Boss pbv4ps2 has almost all of the upgrades making this a great buy. It really has almost all of the upgrades of the platinum. Wifi, grease pan, water cover, side controls, 2 probes, water pan cover, better pull rods, wheels are improved and wheel locks. controls up higher and on the side, etc. I am super happy they seem to be paying attention to the customers. LOVE my pit boss and guess what, still $499.00 at Lowes. Super great smoker way better than my small old Masterbuilt Propane.
How are the comp pellets? And the charcoal blend?. Going to be getting the pit boss Brunswick up right. This is a whole new adventure for me as my old smoker is a homemade one with electric elements. Any info is greatly appreciated.
I've got the Copperhead and very few complaints. Slight temperature swings would be the biggest, but overall a good smoker. Thinking of getting a Yoder- what's your opinion?
Yoder smokers are built just down the road from me. Highly recommend one if you have the $$$ to buy one. Last I heard from an employee there is a waiting list.
@@scottintexas I made this review before I saw the new Pro Series come out. Now that I’m in Texas if you are near an Academy I would look at the vertical Competition Series.
Two inches does matter.I have a four and mine has the deflector pan and my four has the pull out ash tray as the brunswick does,maybe they updated that on all models.
Where do I buy one? The Brunswick from wally world shows $447? You don't link to it ?? Pit Boss gave you a smoker? You would think they would want to sell them as well. Just asking.
The final in an email chain of disappointment with Bradley After applying a lubricant/rust dissolver to the screw I was unable to remove it. The screw slots gave out. Now the screw head must be ground off. At this point I do not have enough screws to fully reassemble the bisquette heater. When I spoke to Olev and asked him what the dimensions were for those screws his answer was that he would have to research that for me, and he would let me know. I have not heard from him. The local big box and hardware stores carry nothing identical. The choices there are either slightly too large or too small, and in that small size only Imperial is available here. I think the dimensions must be Metric and I need those dimensions in order to purchase replacements online. I am going to order stainless steel screws and replace all the rusted screws in the P10, which is almost all of them. Please, at least give me the correct screw dimensions. In the picture below you can see that the bracket holding the heating wires is badly corroded. I understand you will not replace the entire heater assembly, but would you at least replace that part? I am going to fully disassemble the bisquette heater, grind off all the rust, and repaint it with a heat tolerant rust resistant coating. I’m also going to examine the drip pan to try and understand how drippings got inside that heater in the first place since it is unreasonable to have to disassemble that part of the P10 to clean up what should not be there. That concludes my request for help, and my information for you regarding repair of this unit. MESSAGE FROM A VERY DISSAPOINTED CUSTOMER I have used Bradley smokers for over 40 years. My first was an aluminum model that eventually had to be replaced. I’ve purchased several to give as gifts to others. I am as loyal and long term a customer as Bradley could hope to have. The treatment I have received from support has been unpleasant. I’ve been accused of mistreating my P10 by support, then later had Olev confirm the screws were a bad choice that will be replaced. Now I’ve been accused of not properly caring for my P10 because I did not disassemble the heater to clean it. That procedure is not called for in your manual and should not be needed. I will never again purchase a product from Bradley. Not because my P10 has problems, but because Bradley support tries to blame the product problems on me, and refuses to acknowledge and replace that which is faulty. My entire interaction with Bradley has been fully documented in pictures and email. Take a moment to examine my UA-cam page and the videos I have there. They are detailed and have good reviews. I will be adding a detailed review of my experience with the P10, showing the rust throughout, the magnets sticking to what is claimed to be stainless steel, and the emails from support trying to blame me for those defects. Although my videos only get a up to 40,000 views, there is not much on UA-cam discussing the P10, so I expect my video will be easy to find if people research the P10 prior to purchase. Because you are not going to correct the deficiencies in your product I am going to alert prospective customers to them. Most disturbing to me is that Bradley intends to keep shipping P10s with steel screws until November when the first run of P10s with stainless screws is expected. Are you planning to send everyone a set of new screws and tell them to replace them. Such would be a good policy for those of us who already have our P10s, but shipping out units with steel screws when you could easily procure and replace the screws in your inventory units is just unethical. Like rust, the rot in a company comes from the top and works its way in. It saddens me that Wade Bradley has so little interest in his customers that he has chosen not to engage with me when I asked courteously that he do so. Leaders who shield themselves from disappointed customers, hide behind low tier technical support and refuse to acknowledge product deficiencies eventually pay the price. Word gets out, sales drop off and they no long have a company to lead. Good luck Wade, that is where you are taking Bradley. Bendrix Bailey Bendrix Bailey - UA-cam
My guiding service - lots of client contact Northeast Woodlands Guiding
I'm new to smokers and looking to buy a Brunswick but I have a dumb question: once the auger is full and the fire has started what prevents the pellets inside the auger from igniting?
The auger keeps spinning and dropping the pellets into the burn pot. If they do catch, they end up back in the burn pot. The auger spins off and on faster than the burn rate of the pellets. Now the big mistake is unplugging your smoker when you are done and not letting it power off on its own. The auger will keep spinning till the fire is completely out. If it gets unplugged there is a small chance the fire could work it’s way up the auger. Very small, but it could happen.
Does the Platinum come with all the error codes that Pro Series provided me. It makes no sense that I spend nearly $500 which only worked a few months before I have to put new components on.
looking to buy pitt boss pro some of the comments on the control screen have problems of the cover coming off did you have any problems with yours thanks
On the Brunswick, what increments does the temperature go up in for the cooking temperatures? I have one that goes from 200, 225, 250, 300, 350,400 degrees
do the doors remove from the brunswick as well as their other vertical smokers? I generally take off the door on my series 5 to help me clean the glass better.
@@lynnredmer755 What pellets were you using? I would try a different blend of pellets because you have about 25+ different blends to choose from from different manufacturers. Also make sure your pellets are 100% pure hardwood with no fillers, oils...ect.
That link to the wifi controller upgrade says its only compatible with 3 of their pellet grills. Are you sure it works with the Pro series vertical smoker?
I was looking into getting a Brunswick to smoke my Thanksgiving turkey. Sadly it wouldn’t have made it in time. So I went with the new Pit Boss 850PS2. It works great but my older box smoker looks like it’s on it last leg. Waiting for the Brunswick to go on sale, so I can pick one up.
@@GrillSergeant to be honest it’s ok. It has a hard time keeping temperature. Heck I went with the 850PS2 over the 1150PS2 because of its size. My thinking was smaller smoker better temperature control. Nope, I have to fight it with venting. Plus the down side is they don’t make any heat blankets for it yet and covers. The 1150PS2 has everything out for it. I wish I got the 1150PS2 for the extra $100.
I just got a pro series 4 for Christmas and I love it I use the competition blend pellets and tried it out on a pork loin the loin came out excellent but there was a lack of smoke flavor a friend of mine suggested I use hickory pellets what’s your suggestion?
A few things to consider is the higher temps you cook at the less smoke you will get. Smoke at 150 is a lot more then smoke at 250 or 350. A workaround I found that I’ll try soon is smoking with a smoke tube in the smoker.
I had a 5 before I went to a 3. Reason I downsized is I live in an apartment and patio space is limited. The 5 had 5 racks but were variable in height between them. Same on the 3. The 4 and what you’ve shown on the Brunswick rack positions are fixed. I do like the new controller. Lot better control settings. You did discuss the temp variance between the bottom and top. What about front to back. On the 3 and the 5 it was/is hotter at the back than on the door side.
@@GrillSergeant thank you. I’d like to get that controller in my 3. At 78 that’s way beyond my expertise. I’ve been running Pit Boss smokers for over a year. At the price point they are great. I know Rico as SmokinJazz BBQ has been running the new Lockhart for some time. That ones too big for me. The Laredo they came out with looks interesting. The KC Combo takes up too much room on my patio. Still need a gas grill for quick cooks. I have a Weber Q for that. And, I still have my WSM charcoal smoker. Been using that for 11 years now. Sorry for taking up your time. Have a great Thanksgiving.
I have a question that if you could look for this answer on the Brunswick would be awesome. Is the hopper better at the pellets not getting stuck that is the only issue I have with the pro series I have to stick a pole in and knock down the pellets.
Been waiting for someone to do a cooking review on these new controllers. From what i've read on the pit boss site, they are not compatible with vertical smokers. I installed one on my tailgater. Original controller was anywhere from 20-50° off from the lid thermometer. Depending on how loaded up the pit was. This bluetooth/wifi controller is a consistent 100° off. Have only used it twice since installing it. But so far i'm not impressed.... Also seems every second it's showing a different actual temp. App seems okay for giving temps. But the change temp dial on the app is a nightmare! Very tricky and if you aren't careful you will be set for 500, when that wasn't your intention.
I just bought the pro series V2 (I think, because the digital display/controller is on the side not the bottom front) went through priming the auger, and just about done with the burn off. My biggest question is: if this is a “smoker” why does it look so clear inside? Will there be more visible smoke when I actually cook something and I have water in the pan?
Yes the smoke is more visible at the lower temps like 225 or 200 but the smoke is there all the time I have a pit boss pbv4ps2 and i LOVE it. It may not look like it but there is smoke ALL the time to give you that top notch flavor we all know and love.
Hey I bought the Pbv4ps2 but haven’t assembled it yet. I’m reading a lot where the temps fluctuate up to 50 degrees. Is this true? Doesn’t seem like it’s a set it and forget it at night or even smoker. What’s your experience please?
Not for my unit I get about a 10 degree fluxuation in colder temps (50degrees ) outside. But nothing major The chimney can help with that. Moving it down can stabilize the internal temp. I use another independent thermometer to help see my temps and my unit is consistent.
Hey John! Great question! So the main reason I started with Pit Boss was from a video idea I did to find the cheapest smoker I could find and see how well it did being loaded up to the max. That video you can see here: ua-cam.com/video/hYxkFce1M-8/v-deo.html A year later, I’ve had zero issues with that vertical smoker so I stuck with that brand. In my opinion, Pit Boss grills are the best bang for your buck. But I could just be the pellet grill whisperer because my grill has given me no issues while others say they have issues with their pellet smokers...lol
Looking at reviews Platinum is getting a lot of auger hopper fires what's going on there with the fan still running even Almost brand new you think it's full of ash already sergeant
I know where my hot spots are with my pit boss pro 4 where are the hot spots in the new one ?? I got it a year ago this Christmas how do I tell my wife hey baby I need this new one ?? Lol
You just do what I did. Offer to smoke a brisket for dinner on a day you guys have things to go do. Right in the middle of it say you guys have to stop and go home to check on the smoker. If I Ithe new wifi one? Haha
Humidity that develops from the use of a water pan keeps the surface of the meat moist, which in turn, attracts smoke vapor, which in turn, produces great flavor. The water vapor mixes with the combustible gases which are emitted from the burning pellets and add to the overall flavor.
*READ THIS!!*
I'm hearing that the upgraded controller does not work for the vertical smokers...I reached out to Pit Boss to confirm this but as of now it's looking like the vertical Pro Series 4 controller can NOT be upgraded to WiFi...sorry about that!
*INSIDE CHAMBER COOKING SPACE:*
*Pro Series 4:*
32" Tall 20" Wide 12" Deep
5 Racks @ 20"x12"
*Brunswick:*
32" Tall 22" Wide 14" Deep
4 Racks @ 22" x 13"
Wish I saw this before purchasing the controller... Only bought it due to the link being in your video description. Now I have to go through the hassle of trying to return it.
I do appreciate the great content you have put out and will stay subscribed to your channel because of that.
P.S. may want to remove the link from the description and put a note in there (not everyone scrolls through the comments).
@@georgestranski9206 So sorry about this George! Will do!
Good news everyone! Now the Pro Series 4 v2 does have WiFi and Bluetooth. It also has the drip tray like the Brunswick. It also has upgraded locking mechanism.
Put foil in pro series water pan, just change it out after each use, it keeps water pan clean
I had that same thought when I was watching this video
That’s what I always did with my brinkman gourmet, well after I got tired of trying to clean it out.
sure be nice if Walmart actually had these Brunswicks in stock since its the ONLY place to buy one :(
My new pro series 4 has the same grease deflector and clean outs as the platinum and the castors are bigger. It has different controls with the WiFi AP. However it's the same size as you pro series. Both are nice units. Great video.
First time smoker here and just subscribed to your Channel. Putting our new Pit Boss Pro Series 4 to use for the first time today.. 13.5 lb turkey. Thank you for all the set up steps and info. About another hour and the bird will be ready. Looking great so far!
Thank you Shane! Welcome 🙏 Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃
I bought a pro series this year and it has a lot of the features that the Brunswick does(except the accessory box and size).
My favorite part on the Brunswick is the light inside. That is a game changer for me. NOW if I can ever find one to buy. I'm giving my Step daughter and her bf my existing electric smoker. 🤞
I just bought this unit it was $500 and I worked on this unit more than I've cooked on it. Day one the screw that feeds pellets into the burner wouldn't turn so after calling the factory they told me to drain all the pellets and turn it over on its side that was 80 lb of pellets. When we went to turn it on its side the handle on the back broke off because of bad welds and the unit fell to the ground almost crushing my friends foot. After drilling out cross-threaded screws in the cover over the motor we found the plug for the fan motor was not tie wrapped up and laying across the fan for the screw. And then phillips-head screw and part of a rivet fell out on the ground. Then the screw started working. cooked on it one time and now the ashtray will not go in or out due to the metal warping from the Heat. The company asked me to take it back to my local Walmart where I purchase it. I already had paid someone to deliver it and put it together now they want me to pay to have someone to take it back to the store. where they are out of stock of this units. Go to UA-cam and look up ashtray problems with this unit and you'll see where they suggest you use a C-clamp and Bend the top of the ashtray back down about every 3 months unacceptable. I just hope no one else has these problems it's very frustrating after spending this kind of money for this unit.
Got my Brunswick ordered today...can't wait to cook on it...great tips from watching your videos.
Awesome man! You will love it!
Have you seem then pitbos pro gen2 vertical smokers
@@michaelphillips1021 I have. I have a video comparing that with the Brunswick I posted about 2 weeks ago.
This video is awesome. Great concise information. I also ordered the Brunswick after watching this!
Nice video, Sarge! Tuna has one suggestion, though. Tuna noticed right away when you were measuring height, that you measured the entire height with the feet.. That is a good measurement to have, but Tuna believes that knowing the height of the actual smoking area (no feet measured) would be good to show. The feet look about the same height, but the one of the left looks a little shorter. Also looking at actual smoking area measurements, it might be worth it to also do an internal measurement as it will most likely be a little smaller that the outside measurements, and Tuna feels that a lot of people might find that information useful...
Congrats on 6k! You're almost at 6.5k now! Awesome job, Sarge!
All the best!
Great idea! I'll share that info in a pinned comment!
@@GrillSergeant :) that works too!
You popped into my feed today and I was already interested in the Brunswick so I immediately clicked and subscribed. Looking forward to seeing how it cooks.
Welcome William! Very cool!
As an owner of that exact pro series model, that smoker is great. Always runs 15 degrees less than the knob though. But what I really want to see is the internal components after say a year or two of use. I just had to replace all my internals (auger motor, fan, burn stick). Couldn't replace the burn pot since it was fused with so much rust. Hopefully it'll last a bit longer.
The new pit seems much more well built, definitely interested to see you cook on it. Have a great thanksgiving Andrew!
Smoked our thanksgiving Turkey it was amazing 18 lbs cooked at 250 tell it reached 145 internal slowed the process down let it smoke at 200 for 1 1/2 then back to 250 told time smoked was about 5 1/2 hrs ,, we had no turkey left to make sandwiches for the next day so sad the next day !!! I also hung the Turkey in my smoker using the Oklahoma Joe’s turkey hanger works great wish I could post pics ,,
Do you have any updates on the Brunswick? Does the new heat system keep the temperatures on the top more consistent than the older Pro series? Great video.
Between the two does one produce a better bark and flavor? I started with a pitboss entry level horizontal smoker and I'm looking to upgrade. I didn't realize how much I would love smoking meat. Amazing video!
This video is now a bit misleading (May 2021) since the newest Pro series (Lowes) has been upgraded to wifi (Unit is now on the side and works with the SmokeIt app), has the grease trap tray over the water pan, removable grease cleanout, removable ash unit/ burn pot and has been reduced to 4 shelves, spaced farther apart. It also has the heavier handle on back like the Brunswick and it appears that the wheels are now larger on the Pro series as well. I'm not sure what all has changed beyond that since I've only owned my Pro series for a short time (and love it!). The only thing that's somewhat annoying is that the hopper doesn't empty completely through the trap door. You can reach in the little hole and scoop some more pellets out but it really takes a wet/dry vac with a long extension (or hose) to get the remainder out.
Series 5 and7 the racks are adjustable. BUT, the 3,4,5, and 7 controllers are garbage which is why people used to replace them with Recteq controllers (until they stopped selling them w/o a Recteq serial #). If you're buying new, get the Brunswick IMO. Seems to be much improved.
Does the new PB controller stop the fan sometimes? The old PB controllers ran the fan constantly, one advantage of many of the Recteq controller which pulses the fan.
Great video, thank you!
The Brunswick is $597.00 at Walmart and the Pro Series II is $499.99 at Lowes
Late comment, The new unit looks nice, has some cool useful features, Clean out, grease pan and most of all larger casters ! Unlike the tiny casters on the series 4&5. that get caught up on everything while moving the unit. However the one thing that concerns me about the newer unit. As all smokers, creosote builds up . Most of us old dawgs from the days of the stick smokers, We call that flavor build up ☺ Sadly sooner or later has to be removed never the less. I pondered the thought of excessive creosote build up. As the smoke is redirected through the unit walls via "duct work". (cool idea but) if a creosote fire did flare up you're screwed. 2nd, The electronics on the top is nice, As heat rises and is not good. Electronic systems to get over heated can possibly cause a system failure should that be a problem if it were to get "too hot" . Otherwise it looks nice, But I will stick with my series 5 Copperhead. My Oklahoma Joe stick smoker is still my top favorite. Takes a lot of work and baby sitting to get that "just right smoke on". But always a great back up when technology goes awry . The choice of wood is far more expansive too. As I like Mulberry for a good smoke.
Creosote…….lol. Always makes me think of those Chimney sweeping log commercials….lol.
I found a lightly used Copperhead 5 series locally for $200
We did our Turkey on the pitboss pro 14lbs.bird 7 hours a 250 turned out amazing
That's awesome! What pellets were you running?
As another guy stated the pro series 4v2 is great with the wifi and Bluetooth along with the grease pull out and the heat deflector like the brunswick.
One thing that I find is REALLY nice, is the controls on top. I've had my Pitt Boss series 3 Copperhead for 2 years and when I cook at high temps the digital controller gets hot and goes blank. I have to actually pull the control box from the frame, so it cools and I get a digital display back. I am definitely liking that control box on top! Waiting patiently for the Brunswick to be available to buy!
I’ve never had that issue but agree. It’s a very welcome improvement! Mine would always get covered in sauce when I would pull out a try to coat the ribs 😂
Same here but still runs like a champ thankfully.
That looks like a SWEET upstage from the PRO... looking forward to future vids
My Brunswick lasted 6 months before I had a hopper fire. Yes I cleaned out the ashes after every use. Pitboss won't replace it without receipt iv since lost. So no its a outdoor cabinet for grates and tools.
The latch on the 4 series can get quite hot also
Very true!
PIT BOSS needs to update the SMOKE IT APP and the firmware via Wi-Fi! No excuse not to!
I have this exact same model and it needs a tighter temperature gradation!
Lots of improvements. I agree, the Pro is great, but those little improvements are nice: clean out tray, controller up higher, the wheels, the deflector shield and the like.
I have cooked on my for 4 times now and the results have been superb. I am new to smok'in. Question: my boss probe malfunctioned and shows a way off temp. Fortunately I had an external auxiliary thermo. Any issues out there from others?
My probes from the Pro Series 4 and the Brunswick are still new because I use other probes from my InkBird that I trust. Not knocking the Pit Boss ones but those temp differences in stock probes are not helpful when you are trying to hit exact temps with Brisket and Pulled Pork. I think you can calibrate the probs but I’m not 100% certain on that.
Get you some vaseline. Rub some on the jack before you insert it. Helped mine to stop reading crazy numbers.
Curious how they handled the ash that is blown out of the fire pot from the fan. I clean that and the fire pot every smoke. Wish they would show more how that was designed and pit together.
I found it strange that the heat shield was bolted in on mine (Brunswick).
I removed the screws to go access to it as I please and it's very easy to clean!
Thanks for the video, quite informative. I presume the Brunswick is manufactured in China like the Pro Series?
Thanks. And I believe they are both manufactured in China.
Good video, just trying to find someone who reviewed the competition series (sold at academy)
You need to clean out from under that heat deflector on the Brunswick. if it’s like my pro 4 series 2 it builds up under there. And it looks like it’s the same setup.
Its nice to know what performs well but more importantly, the durability, longevity and customer service of these brands are critical!! So far, based on Trust Pilot reviews many if not all of them have terrible customer service and durability ratings. Many have main parts that do not last and are difficult to replace. I want a smoker that I do not have to deal with other than keeping it clean for several years.
I have the exact same pro series as in the video. Going on 4 years. Maybe 2 dozen long cooks on it. Spent most of its life covered outdoors in south florida. Purchased all replacement internal parts (auger motor, fan, burn stick, burn pot).
Easy to replace all except burn pot as it was rusted and fused so badly to where it connects to. My fault for poor storage.
But overall it's held up great. It's a complicated cooker with electric components, moving parts and lots of thin metal, treat it as such clean and maintain and store properly and it will treat you well.
That storage is slick. . So should i tell my wife i need this new smoker cause Andrew said so? 🤣😅🤣
Happy Thanksgiving. . 🦃
Ha! Yes. Tell her the amount of BBQ's you need is X+1. X is the amount you currently own. LOL
@@GrillSergeant 🤣😅🤣😅🤣
Great video
wooo very nice when do you start smoking? going live with it?
You should be comparing the Brunswick to the pit boss pbv7 it’s a closer comparison
@grillsergeant The Pit Boss pbv4ps2 has almost all of the upgrades making this a great buy. It really has almost all of the upgrades of the platinum. Wifi, grease pan, water cover, side controls, 2 probes, water pan cover, better pull rods, wheels are improved and wheel locks. controls up higher and on the side, etc. I am super happy they seem to be paying attention to the customers. LOVE my pit boss and guess what, still $499.00 at Lowes. Super great smoker way better than my small old Masterbuilt Propane.
Wifi ! LMBO get the app and jack with your neighbors who don't share the BBQ! LOL
When are you going to do an actual cook on the Brunswick
This weekend she will see Brisket and Pork Butt! Stay tuned!
How are the comp pellets? And the charcoal blend?. Going to be getting the pit boss Brunswick up right. This is a whole new adventure for me as my old smoker is a homemade one with electric elements. Any info is greatly appreciated.
You can’t go wrong with the comp blend. The charcoal pellets add a nice taste to the bbq. You will have a lot of fun on the Brunswick.
Is better Insulated and how well does it hold the temperature?
I have a 5 Series and love it but I do not like where the controls are way to messy
Can I run these like a low temp oven without pellets? Solet’s say 150°, on electricity without pellets?
I've got the Copperhead and very few complaints. Slight temperature swings would be the biggest, but overall a good smoker. Thinking of getting a Yoder- what's your opinion?
Yoder smokers are built just down the road from me. Highly recommend one if you have the $$$ to buy one. Last I heard from an employee there is a waiting list.
@@gramps9838 Thanks
Do This Unit Use A Electric Outlet 110 or 220 volt Or Once It's Put Together Can You Just Turnon Without An Outlet ?
110. All you gotta do is add is 100% all natural hardwood pellets.
is the brunswick insulated for cold weather climates?
I know on our Facebook group some use their Brunswick’s in below 30 temps....
Have you made fresh smoked sausage in pit boss
But which one is better and which one do you recommend. I am not sure which one is better....
I would go with the new Pro Series 4 at Lowes.
@@GrillSergeant Can you briefly explain why vs all the upgrades on the Brunswick? Price is the same Lowes model and Walmart model.
@@scottintexas I made this review before I saw the new Pro Series come out. Now that I’m in Texas if you are near an Academy I would look at the vertical Competition Series.
I watched this entire video and never got to see how they compare
Have you ever made bacon in one of these smokers ?
First time looking, can you dehydrate meat with the smoker?
These vertical smokers can get down to 150 so if you are looking to make beef jerky they can do that...
Do you have to keep water in the water try when cooking in the smoker
Does copper give crispy skin an bark?
Two inches does matter.I have a four and mine has the deflector pan and my four has the pull out ash tray as the brunswick does,maybe they updated that on all models.
Is the auger in the Brunswick as hard to get to as the other smoker?
Review platinum Laredo vs 1150
Where do I buy one? The Brunswick from wally world shows $447? You don't link to it ?? Pit Boss gave you a smoker? You would think they would want to sell them as well. Just asking.
I wish Pit Boss gave me a smoker! 😂 I bought it off the Walmart website back in November. They are crazy hard to get right now.
The Sarge Is in charge!
The final in an email chain of disappointment with Bradley
After applying a lubricant/rust dissolver to the screw I was unable to remove it. The screw slots gave out. Now the screw head must be ground off. At this point I do not have enough screws to fully reassemble the bisquette heater.
When I spoke to Olev and asked him what the dimensions were for those screws his answer was that he would have to research that for me, and he would let me know. I have not heard from him. The local big box and hardware stores carry nothing identical. The choices there are either slightly too large or too small, and in that small size only Imperial is available here. I think the dimensions must be Metric and I need those dimensions in order to purchase replacements online.
I am going to order stainless steel screws and replace all the rusted screws in the P10, which is almost all of them. Please, at least give me the correct screw dimensions.
In the picture below you can see that the bracket holding the heating wires is badly corroded. I understand you will not replace the entire heater assembly, but would you at least replace that part?
I am going to fully disassemble the bisquette heater, grind off all the rust, and repaint it with a heat tolerant rust resistant coating. I’m also going to examine the drip pan to try and understand how drippings got inside that heater in the first place since it is unreasonable to have to disassemble that part of the P10 to clean up what should not be there.
That concludes my request for help, and my information for you regarding repair of this unit.
MESSAGE FROM A VERY DISSAPOINTED CUSTOMER
I have used Bradley smokers for over 40 years. My first was an aluminum model that eventually had to be replaced. I’ve purchased several to give as gifts to others. I am as loyal and long term a customer as Bradley could hope to have.
The treatment I have received from support has been unpleasant. I’ve been accused of mistreating my P10 by support, then later had Olev confirm the screws were a bad choice that will be replaced. Now I’ve been accused of not properly caring for my P10 because I did not disassemble the heater to clean it. That procedure is not called for in your manual and should not be needed.
I will never again purchase a product from Bradley. Not because my P10 has problems, but because Bradley support tries to blame the product problems on me, and refuses to acknowledge and replace that which is faulty.
My entire interaction with Bradley has been fully documented in pictures and email. Take a moment to examine my UA-cam page and the videos I have there. They are detailed and have good reviews. I will be adding a detailed review of my experience with the P10, showing the rust throughout, the magnets sticking to what is claimed to be stainless steel, and the emails from support trying to blame me for those defects. Although my videos only get a up to 40,000 views, there is not much on UA-cam discussing the P10, so I expect my video will be easy to find if people research the P10 prior to purchase.
Because you are not going to correct the deficiencies in your product I am going to alert prospective customers to them. Most disturbing to me is that Bradley intends to keep shipping P10s with steel screws until November when the first run of P10s with stainless screws is expected. Are you planning to send everyone a set of new screws and tell them to replace them. Such would be a good policy for those of us who already have our P10s, but shipping out units with steel screws when you could easily procure and replace the screws in your inventory units is just unethical.
Like rust, the rot in a company comes from the top and works its way in. It saddens me that Wade Bradley has so little interest in his customers that he has chosen not to engage with me when I asked courteously that he do so. Leaders who shield themselves from disappointed customers, hide behind low tier technical support and refuse to acknowledge product deficiencies eventually pay the price. Word gets out, sales drop off and they no long have a company to lead. Good luck Wade, that is where you are taking Bradley.
Bendrix Bailey
Bendrix Bailey - UA-cam
My guiding service - lots of client contact
Northeast Woodlands Guiding
I'm new to smokers and looking to buy a Brunswick but I have a dumb question: once the auger is full and the fire has started what prevents the pellets inside the auger from igniting?
The auger keeps spinning and dropping the pellets into the burn pot. If they do catch, they end up back in the burn pot. The auger spins off and on faster than the burn rate of the pellets. Now the big mistake is unplugging your smoker when you are done and not letting it power off on its own. The auger will keep spinning till the fire is completely out. If it gets unplugged there is a small chance the fire could work it’s way up the auger. Very small, but it could happen.
Does the Platinum come with all the error codes that Pro Series provided me. It makes no sense that I spend nearly $500 which only worked a few months before I have to put new components on.
looking to buy pitt boss pro some of the comments on the control screen have problems of the cover coming off did you have any problems with yours thanks
I did not have that issue but I kept mine covered and out of the sun.
You meed to update the pro series
On the Brunswick, what increments does the temperature go up in for the cooking temperatures? I have one that goes from 200, 225, 250, 300, 350,400 degrees
All of them are 10°F increments from june 2022 and after for all pid models
And does the temp probe reach all the way to the bottom right corner?
do the doors remove from the brunswick as well as their other vertical smokers? I generally take off the door on my series 5 to help me clean the glass better.
Have you had any discrepancies with your Pitboss Pro Series thermometer?
What are the temperature setting increments for the platinum?
150-420 in 10 degree increments.
@@GrillSergeant Thank you. I was lucky enough to order one from walmart, should arrive 3/11.
Brunswick you forgot that the controller is PID not just wifi and bluetooth
Great point!
What is PID
Are vertical smokers better smoke flavor then electric?
It all depends on what your fuel source is. I like vertical smokers for the fact that I can smoke a lot more food than a traditional barrel smoker.
@@GrillSergeant we have a masterbuilt electric smoker now and a cabellas pellet smoker. We don't like the smoke flavor of the pellet grill
@@lynnredmer755 What pellets were you using? I would try a different blend of pellets because you have about 25+ different blends to choose from from different manufacturers. Also make sure your pellets are 100% pure hardwood with no fillers, oils...ect.
@@GrillSergeant what brand do you recommend
I use Pit Boss pellets. I mix their competition blend 50/50 with their charcoal pellets and the flavor is amazing!
That link to the wifi controller upgrade says its only compatible with 3 of their pellet grills. Are you sure it works with the Pro series vertical smoker?
I was looking into getting a Brunswick to smoke my Thanksgiving turkey. Sadly it wouldn’t have made it in time. So I went with the new Pit Boss 850PS2. It works great but my older box smoker looks like it’s on it last leg. Waiting for the Brunswick to go on sale, so I can pick one up.
I know. I don't know why the Brunswick is so hard to find right now! How are you liking the 850?
@@GrillSergeant to be honest it’s ok. It has a hard time keeping temperature. Heck I went with the 850PS2 over the 1150PS2 because of its size. My thinking was smaller smoker better temperature control. Nope, I have to fight it with venting. Plus the down side is they don’t make any heat blankets for it yet and covers. The 1150PS2 has everything out for it. I wish I got the 1150PS2 for the extra $100.
I just got a pro series 4 for Christmas and I love it I use the competition blend pellets and tried it out on a pork loin the loin came out excellent but there was a lack of smoke flavor a friend of mine suggested I use hickory pellets what’s your suggestion?
A few things to consider is the higher temps you cook at the less smoke you will get. Smoke at 150 is a lot more then smoke at 250 or 350. A workaround I found that I’ll try soon is smoking with a smoke tube in the smoker.
I see you have the same problem as me, the plastic covering the temp/,control has separated in from the smoker on top..any fix for that?
That pit boss pro series is so small. Mine is about the same height as the Brunswick.
woulda been a better head to head.. pit boss 6 vs the brunswick. anyway.. great video as always. thank brother.
In Australia they are all sold. im very sad and very upset.
Just got the brunswick at Walmart half off for $357
How would the Series 5 Pro compare size wise? Can you put the new controller the Pro series 3?
I think the series 5 has 7 racks...
I reached out to Pit Boss to confirm the controllers will work in the vertical smokers...
I had a 5 before I went to a 3. Reason I downsized is I live in an apartment and patio space is limited. The 5 had 5 racks but were variable in height between them. Same on the 3. The 4 and what you’ve shown on the Brunswick rack positions are fixed. I do like the new controller. Lot better control settings. You did discuss the temp variance between the bottom and top. What about front to back. On the 3 and the 5 it was/is hotter at the back than on the door side.
@@GrillSergeant thank you. I’d like to get that controller in my 3. At 78 that’s way beyond my expertise. I’ve been running Pit Boss smokers for over a year. At the price point they are great. I know Rico as SmokinJazz BBQ has been running the new Lockhart for some time. That ones too big for me. The Laredo they came out with looks interesting. The KC Combo takes up too much room on my patio. Still need a gas grill for quick cooks. I have a Weber Q for that. And, I still have my WSM charcoal smoker. Been using that for 11 years now. Sorry for taking up your time. Have a great Thanksgiving.
All good John! Huge fan of the WSM as well!
I wish the grease trap was on the side.
Anyone want to make a bet on which I can get ahold of first - one of these smokers or a PS5?
😂 I’m holding out for that new XBox 😂
Is the new control panel compatible with the series 4?
I have a question that if you could look for this answer on the Brunswick would be awesome. Is the hopper better at the pellets not getting stuck that is the only issue I have with the pro series I have to stick a pole in and knock down the pellets.
What's the price difference
Great video Sarge! What are the dimensions of the interior racks on the brunswick?
Thanks man. They are 22x13
What is the link for the controller upgrade on the pro series 4
Hey Tim! Here it is, these controllers just came out! pitbossgrills.77jaha.net/om54o
@@GrillSergeant I thought I read somewhere it was not compatible with the Vertical smokers?
@@jeremiahyoder5506 I thought I read the opposite in a Pit Boss newsletter. I just reached out to a Pit Boss rep to confirm...I'll let you know.
Been waiting for someone to do a cooking review on these new controllers. From what i've read on the pit boss site, they are not compatible with vertical smokers. I installed one on my tailgater. Original controller was anywhere from 20-50° off from the lid thermometer. Depending on how loaded up the pit was. This bluetooth/wifi controller is a consistent 100° off. Have only used it twice since installing it. But so far i'm not impressed....
Also seems every second it's showing a different actual temp. App seems okay for giving temps. But the change temp dial on the app is a nightmare! Very tricky and if you aren't careful you will be set for 500, when that wasn't your intention.
I just bought the pro series V2 (I think, because the digital display/controller is on the side not the bottom front) went through priming the auger, and just about done with the burn off. My biggest question is: if this is a “smoker” why does it look so clear inside? Will there be more visible smoke when I actually cook something and I have water in the pan?
Ok so it’s the V4
Yes the smoke is more visible at the lower temps like 225 or 200 but the smoke is there all the time I have a pit boss pbv4ps2 and i LOVE it. It may not look like it but there is smoke ALL the time to give you that top notch flavor we all know and love.
Hey I bought the Pbv4ps2 but haven’t assembled it yet. I’m reading a lot where the temps fluctuate up to 50 degrees. Is this true? Doesn’t seem like it’s a set it and forget it at night or even smoker. What’s your experience please?
Not for my unit I get about a 10 degree fluxuation in colder temps (50degrees ) outside. But nothing major The chimney can help with that. Moving it down can stabilize the internal temp. I use another independent thermometer to help see my temps and my unit is consistent.
I am curious why a Pit Boss they seem to be in the lower end of Quality vs Treager,Guarilla Grilz,Rectec, ect... is it primarily price?
Hey John! Great question! So the main reason I started with Pit Boss was from a video idea I did to find the cheapest smoker I could find and see how well it did being loaded up to the max. That video you can see here: ua-cam.com/video/hYxkFce1M-8/v-deo.html A year later, I’ve had zero issues with that vertical smoker so I stuck with that brand. In my opinion, Pit Boss grills are the best bang for your buck. But I could just be the pellet grill whisperer because my grill has given me no issues while others say they have issues with their pellet smokers...lol
@@GrillSergeant i imagine its all about maintenance and how you store the smoker
@@chadsmith7909 Agreed. A cover and a little TLC go a long way :)
Too bad You can’t buy the Brunswick . Walmart is the only seller and they never have them in stock
the new bluetooth panel is for the pit boss grills, & not for the pro series 4 smoker.
I reached out to Pit Boss to confirm this...I have yet to hear back from them but thanks for the heads up!
The new Pro Series 4 vertical smoker has the bluetooth/wifi controller on it. This verison just came out, I picked it up a couple days ago.
@@bigtymer019 Really? Did you get it at Lowes?
WHAT ARE THE TEMP RANGES MINE GOES IN 50 DEGRES DIF.
Does the new controller allow for metered increases for heat setting or does it still go 225, 250, 300 etc like the old model?
I’m reaching out to Pit Boss to find out but it looks like the new controllers won’t work on the vertical smokers... :(
@@GrillSergeant What is the website for Pitt Boss? I cant seem to find it and get errors, like it no longer exists.
@@Hill_Billy_Without_A_Hill pitboss-grills.com/
@@GrillSergeant Says 403 forbidden on my end when I try that link
@@Hill_Billy_Without_A_Hill Are you on a work computer? Some companies only limit certain websites you can view.
Did I miss the $, even though the Brunswick is a clear winner
Review other platinum series
Looking at reviews Platinum is getting a lot of auger hopper fires what's going on there with the fan still running even
Almost brand new you think it's full of ash already sergeant
This video doesn’t tell you squat about the performance of the smoker…does it SARGE ?????j
Will this do five degree increments And is it PID?
Ignitor sucks I bought the same platinum model you have and Err code. 😭😭
I know where my hot spots are with my pit boss pro 4 where are the hot spots in the new one ?? I got it a year ago this Christmas how do I tell my wife hey baby I need this new one ?? Lol
Don’t tell her anything just go get it lol
You just do what I did. Offer to smoke a brisket for dinner on a day you guys have things to go do. Right in the middle of it say you guys have to stop and go home to check on the smoker. If I Ithe new wifi one? Haha
what is the purpose of the water pan in a smoker??? not a pro obviously!
Humidity that develops from the use of a water pan keeps the surface of the meat moist, which in turn, attracts smoke vapor, which in turn, produces great flavor. The water vapor mixes with the combustible gases which are emitted from the burning pellets and add to the overall flavor.