Value
At $1199 the Camp Chef Apex 36 is the right Home & Kitchen in 2026.
Camp Chef Apex 36-Inch Wood Pellet Grill with Sidekick Gas Burner vs. the competition
| Product | Our rating | Cooking | Hopper | Sear | Price | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Camp Chef Apex 36 | ★★★★★ 4.7 | 1236 sq in | 22 lb | Yes (gas) | $1199 | Best Hybrid |
| Traeger Pro 575 | ★★★★★ 4.6 | 575 sq in | 18 lb | No | $899 | Top Pick Pellet |
| Pit Boss 820 Pro | ★★★★★ 4.5 | 820 sq in | 32 lb | Slide-plate | $599 | Best Budget Pellet |
| Generic pellet grill | ★★★★☆ 3.5 | Variable | Variable | No | $449 | Skip for serious smoking |
Full specifications
| Total cook surface | 1236 sq in |
| Hopper capacity | 22 lb |
| Temperature range | 160-650F |
| Sidekick burner | 24,000 BTU gas |
| Probe inputs | 4 included |
| Wi-Fi | App with cloud control |
| Warranty | 3 year limited |
Should you buy the Camp Chef Apex 36-Inch Wood Pellet Grill with Sidekick Gas Burner?
The Camp Chef Apex 36 is the pellet grill that solves the one weakness pellet smokers share: hot direct searing. The 1236 sq inch total cook surface holds three packer briskets, the Sidekick gas burner runs 24,000 BTU on a swing-out arm for cast-iron searing, the Wi-Fi app monitors and adjusts pit temperature plus four meat probes, the 22 lb hopper feeds 24 hours of low and slow, and the slide-and-grill design opens direct flame access. The trade is the $1199 sticker and the hopper feed grinding louder than Traeger.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Camp Chef Apex 36 worth $1199 in 2026?+
Yes for cooks who want one outdoor box for smoke and sear. The Sidekick gas burner removes the only legitimate complaint about pellet grills.
📅 Update log
- May 14, 2026Added 11-month observations.
- Jun 15, 2025Initial review published.
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