re: How do pellet grill’s compare to charcoal pits?

I fought the pellet smoker "fad" for a couple of years. Finally, I got tired of having 3 grills hanging around my patio, and got tired of manning the fire I could never get to a constant temperature without wild swings or manning the fire every 30 minutes. There is an art to a traditional charcoal smoker, but I don't have the time or attention span to cook with it very often. I smoke everything on my pellet smoker now (camp chef woodwind with sidekick burner). Haven't noticed a lack of flavor and everything comes out good on it.

For a brisket, fill the hopper, set the temp, and throw the meat on and walk away. I'll go hit a round of golf then come home to cooked ribs. You'll feel like you're cheating, but you'll also have more time on your hands and grill more often.