WIRED 2026 Grill Guide: Smart Tech Takes the Heat
From the Recteq Flagship 1600 to the Weber Kettle with Spider Venom, WIRED’s latest assessment prioritises precision, portability, and value in an increasingly automated outdoor cooking market.
WIRED has released its 2026 guide to the best grills and smokers, marking a distinct industry shift toward smart technology for precise temperature regulation. The publication’s review team evaluated a broad spectrum of models, identifying the Recteq Flagship 1600 as the top smart pellet grill, the Weber Kettle equipped with a Spider Venom controller for charcoal applications, and the Traeger Timberline for high-end smoking. The guide also highlights portable options such as the Nomad and budget-friendly choices like the Brisk It Zelos-450, while advising consumers to avoid the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe due to persistent electrical issues.
The integration of digital controllers and Wi-Fi connectivity has become a central theme in the 2026 assessment. WIRED reviewers noted that modern smokers now offer significant technology to measure and control temperature, moving away from reliance on feel and experience alone. The Recteq Flagship 1600 was singled out for its Wi-Fi-enabled app, which allows users to monitor and adjust temperatures remotely and stores up to 30 days of cook history. Reviewers praised the unit’s even heat distribution, noting a temperature variance of no more than 7 degrees Fahrenheit across the cooking surface, although they acknowledged occasional bugs in the companion application.
For charcoal enthusiasts, the guide emphasises the value of retrofitting classic designs with smart upgrades. The Weber Kettle, described as a durable and ubiquitous platform, was recommended with the Spider Venom controller, which modulates airflow to maintain temperatures within approximately 30 degrees of the target. This approach allows users to leverage the flavour profile of charcoal while benefiting from the precision of digital control. The guide also noted the Weber Connect Smart Hub and the upcoming Performer Smart Ring as viable alternatives for integrating technology into traditional kettle grills.
The 2026 guide also addresses the growing demand for portable and budget-conscious options. The Nomad portable grill was highlighted for its sturdy construction and precise airflow control, making it suitable for overlanding and tailgating. At the lower end of the price spectrum, the Brisk It Zelos-450 was commended for its intuitive app and ease of assembly, despite some minor imprecision in temperature control. The guide advises that while AI-driven recipe features may be ineffective, the core smart functions of monitoring and ignition remain valuable for consumers seeking affordability without sacrificing connectivity.
Conversely, the publication issued a strong warning regarding the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe. Despite its initial appeal for electric ignition and Wi-Fi capabilities, long-term testing revealed that the unit frequently tripped ground fault circuit interrupter outlets, a problem reported by multiple users. WIRED advised that the grill remains a hard pass until these electrical issues are resolved. The guide also noted that while infrared features and large-capacity models have their place, consumers should prioritise build quality, warranty coverage, and the availability of replacement parts when selecting outdoor cooking equipment.
