Yoder Smokers YS640s Pellet Grill Reviews
$2,399.00
People love the Yoder YS640s Pellet Grill. It does a great job in different cooking jobs, from making food crispy to adding smoke flavor. They say it’s well-made, easy to control the heat, and can do many things. Many people also thank Yoder for their excellent customer service, which makes them happy with the product. Overall, it’s a top-notch choice for barbecue fans.
Description
When it comes to outdoor grilling and smoking, few names command as much respect as Yoder Smokers. Their latest offering, the YS640s Pellet Grill, is a testament to their commitment to quality, versatility, and innovation. Let’s dive into what makes this grill a game-changer for barbecue enthusiasts everywhere.
Unmatched Control and Connectivity
The YS640s boasts the advanced Yoder Smokers ACS Control System, featuring both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. With this system, you have unprecedented control over your cooking experience, right from the palm of your hand. Whether you’re at home or on the go, you can monitor and adjust temperatures, set timers, and even access a library of recipes through the intuitive mobile app.
Precision Cooking
Equipped with two integrated food probes and a ceramic ignition system, the YS640s ensures precise temperature control for consistently perfect results. With a temperature range from 150°F to 600°F, you have the flexibility to tackle everything from low-and-slow smoking to high-heat searing. Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to culinary confidence.
Unrivaled Versatility
What sets the Yoder Smokers Pellet Grill apart is its ability to do more than just smoke. Thanks to its innovative design, you can easily transition from indirect smoking to direct flame grilling, allowing you to achieve those coveted sear marks on your steaks or charred perfection on your burgers. With 1,070 square inches of cooking space and nearly 12 inches of headroom, there’s ample room to unleash your culinary creativity, whether you’re smoking briskets, roasting chickens, or baking pizzas.
Built to Last
Crafted in Kansas, USA, from heavy-duty 10-gauge steel, the YS640s is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor cooking. Its rugged construction provides excellent insulation, ensuring consistent temperatures and efficient fuel consumption. Plus, with features like stay-cool handles, grease drain, and heavy-duty orange casters, convenience and durability go hand in hand.
Endless Customization
To further tailor your grilling experience, Yoder offers a range of optional accessories, including a wood-fired pizza oven, stainless steel shelves, and a storage drawer system. Whether you’re enhancing functionality or adding flair, these options allow you to personalize your YS640s to suit your specific needs and preferences.
Peace of Mind Warranty
Backed by a rock-solid warranty, you can grill with confidence knowing that your investment is protected. Yoder Smokers offers a 10-year warranty on the cooking chamber, 3 years on the ACS controller, and 3 years on the ceramic igniter, providing peace of mind for years to come.
Conclusion
In summary, the Yoder Smokers YS640s Pellet Grill is more than just a smoker – it’s a culinary powerhouse that elevates outdoor cooking to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a novice backyard chef, this grill empowers you to unleash your creativity and achieve exceptional results every time. With its unparalleled control, versatility, and durability, it’s no wonder why the YS640s is the go-to choice for barbecue enthusiasts who demand nothing but the best. Experience the difference with Yoder Smokers – where quality meets innovation.
Ben –
Absolutely incredible! I reside in northern Minnesota, where temperatures often dip below freezing, but this grill handles it like a champ. It’s a true all-in-one wonder, seamlessly transitioning between searing, smoking, and grilling. Plus, the range of attachments available makes it even more versatile. I couldn’t be more satisfied with my purchase!
Ian Harris –
I’m absolutely thrilled with the heat retention and versatility of cooking configurations that this amazing smoker offers. It surpasses any previous smokers I’ve owned. While there are a couple of improvements I’d suggest, such as better cable management for the AC cord and additional grate holders, supporting an American company and the ecosystem it benefits brings me immense satisfaction. Here’s to many more happy grilling and smoking sessions!
Dale Pudenz –
I purchased this grill in the spring and encountered some issues with the shipping company, but Yoder promptly resolved them. Let me tell you, this Pellet Grill is something else! I previously owned two Traeger Pro Series grills and thought they were excellent, but the Yoder 640 YS is on another level. I’m absolutely enamored with everything about this grill. It has made this summer an incredible season for grilling, from searing steaks to smoking vegetables.
Brian –
I ventured into smoking and elevated my backyard cooking skills a few years back when I invested in a Green Mountain Grill. Initially, I thought it was a good grill, but after a few years, it began to deteriorate, rust, and the app became unreliable. Initially, I considered purchasing a higher-end Traeger grill and overlooked the Yoder because it seemed excessive for my needs. However, a salesperson questioned why I would spend a similar amount on the Traeger when I could get the Yoder, which offered more features. After thorough research, I concluded that the Yoder was the perfect pellet grill for me.
The ability to remove the door for flame access has significantly enhanced my cooking experience. Moreover, the Fireboard app is exceptional and functions flawlessly, far surpassing the performance of my previous GMG app. I’ve also invested in accessories like the grill grates and griddle, which have expanded my outdoor cooking repertoire, providing me with endless culinary possibilities and plenty of enjoyment.
I highly recommend the grease guard, as it effectively prevents the buildup of drippings that can damage the grill, as I experienced with my GMG. Additionally, I believe the drawer accessory should be included with the grill, as it provides a convenient storage solution for various components and accessories, reducing clutter and enhancing organization.
Scott Purcell –
I’ve owned my YS640 for over a year now, and I can confidently say that I haven’t encountered any issues or complaints. Its American-made quality, simplicity of operation, and superior build make it a standout choice. The food it produces is simply unmatched; I’ve been cooking for quite some time, and nothing else compares. Plus, the range of options it offers is the cherry on top. Whether I’m smoking, searing, grilling, or now, with the addition of the pizza attachment, making incredible pizzas, this grill exceeds expectations. In fact, the pizzas are on par with or even better than those from traditional brick ovens I’ve tried in the past.
I use this grill at least 3-4 days a week, and each time is an absolute pleasure. Cleanup is a breeze, and I couldn’t be happier with it. Additionally, the online documentation, recipes, and resources provided by the Yoder team are top-notch and greatly enhance the overall user experience. A big thank you to the team in Kansas for crafting such an exceptional product. Mine rocks, indeed.
Kent Greenlee –
I’ve owned the YS640 for almost 10 years now (born on date 10/24/2013), and let me tell you, there’s nothing that compares to this pellet smoker. I’ve cooked on other brands like Traegers, Pit Boss, and some other unidentifiable ones, but only because I didn’t want to haul my Yoder long distances! In the entire span of 10 years, the only maintenance I’ve done on my Yoder is: 1. Replaced a fan that had a spider nest in it (thankfully covered under warranty). Even though the old fan still worked after I removed the nest, they still sent me a new one. 2. Replaced the thermocouple and the igniter after they served me well for 9 years. One piece of advice: always keep a spare thermocouple and igniter on hand. There’s nothing worse than discovering one of them has gone kaput in the middle of a cook or on the day of a cook!
The Yoder YS640 is truly exceptional, and I can’t praise it enough. I’ve smoked turkeys, briskets, pork shoulders, chicken wings, and more in zero-degree weather, and it cooks just as well as it does in the summer temperatures. Using good pellets, like the Pit Boss Competition Blend from Walmart (my personal choice), ensures consistently excellent results. They’re easy to come by and only 34 miles away, compared to 180 miles for other good pellets. If you’re worried about the price, don’t be. Trust me, you’ll end up spending more on pellets, repairs, and frustration with those flimsy brands (just ask my relatives). You’ll likely have to buy several new ones before needing to replace a Yoder. As I always say to anyone considering other brands, invest in quality and get a Yoder! BUY ONCE, CRY ONCE! You’ll thank me later!
Bill Yarkosky –
I’ve been using the 640YS for almost three years now. Prior to this, I had a Green Mountain grill and then switched to a stick burner before making the leap to the Yoder. Overall, I’m quite satisfied with the Yoder, but there’s one issue that bothers me: the 20-degree temperature variation. In my opinion, there shouldn’t be more than a 10-degree difference in cooking temperature. I believe this inconsistency is one reason why I don’t get as much of a smoky flavor in my foods. Despite using only 10% wood pellets and diligently cleaning the firebox and temperature probe before each use, the problem persists. Even after purchasing the insulated cover, the 20-degree temperature swing remains unchanged.
I’ve reached out to the store where I bought the unit, and they suggested contacting Yoder as there might be a fix. However, due to my job and location, I find it challenging to coordinate with Yoder’s support team because of the time zone difference. Interestingly, I’ve spoken to two other owners of the 640 who I recommended the unit to, and they’ve encountered the same issues.
Chad B –
I wrote a review a couple of years ago shortly after getting my YS640. After spending months researching which smoker to purchase, I was sold on Yoder’s versatility, particularly its ability to function as both a BBQ and a grill (which are not the same thing). This grill effortlessly reaches temperatures of up to 600 degrees, something Traeger can’t match. From crafting the most mouthwatering ribeyes that even the kids can’t resist to slow-cooking a tender brisket that melts in your mouth, this smoker does it all. I can’t sing its praises enough. In fact, I ended up getting rid of all my other outdoor cooking equipment because the YS640 does everything I need.
I’m eagerly anticipating adding the pizza oven accessory to take our pizza-making game to the next level. Since setting up the smoker, we’ve been making pizzas in it, and they’re hands down the best pizzas we’ve ever tasted (Check out All Things BBQ, the Soup).
The customer service is exceptional as well. We live in a rather harsh climate, with scorching summers and freezing winters. When the fan malfunctioned, Yoder promptly sent out replacement parts along with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. They even followed up to ensure everything was in working order. While this smoker is undeniably amazing, the outstanding customer support ensures that you’ll always be able to keep cooking, even when rare issues arise.
Michael G Williams –
I scoured the smoker grill market exhaustively until I finally settled on the Yoder YS640 and took the plunge to buy one. A hefty 350-pound box arrived at my driveway in just a day, and I found assembling it to be a breeze. Eager to put it to the test, I ordered a Wildfork Prime Brisket and followed along with the Meat Church guy on YouTube. Two days later, I had conquered the elusive brisket with flying colors.
The Fireboard app made monitoring my cook an absolute breeze. I can’t emphasize enough how well-built this smoker is and how perfectly it cooks! Two thumbs up all the way – I couldn’t be happier. 👍👍
Stephen –
I absolutely adore this grill.
After owning a Traeger for 2.5 years and experiencing numerous ruined cooks due to its inability to maintain temperature, I made the decision to upgrade to a YS640. Initially skeptical about whether a pellet smoker could truly hold a temperature within 5-10 degrees, I was pleasantly surprised by the YS640’s ability to do so effortlessly, provided you give it enough time to even out.
The removable heat shield, allowing access to direct flame, is a complete game-changer for pellet grills. I can smoke burgers, chicken, or steaks at 180 degrees, and then simply remove the heat shield to grill over open flame, achieving those coveted grill marks and imparting that delicious fire flavor.
Aaron –
I’ve had my YS640 for about a year now, and I couldn’t be happier. Zero complaints. The customer service is excellent, and I’m so glad I went with this grill. I typically don’t leave reviews, but I had to make an exception for this one. If you’re considering purchasing, don’t hesitate—go for it.
Reid Harmon –
I owned one of the first-generation Traeger Texas pellet smokers for years, but it was time for an upgrade. After conducting extensive research, I decided to invest in the YS640. Luckily, my local dealer had one in stock that someone had ordered but never picked up. Assembly was straightforward; just follow the instructions. However, it’s worth noting that this thing is heavy. Fortunately, I have a tractor, so unloading and setting it up posed no problem, but if you don’t, you’ll likely need some assistance.
The construction of the YS640S is on a completely different level compared to any other brands I looked at. The fit and finish are excellent for the most part. Setting up the Fireboard App was simple, and it connected right away with no issues. Programming cook times, pit, and food temperatures is easy and works perfectly.
I waited a few months before writing this review so I could provide insight into how it cooks. The bottom line is, it’s incredible. This smoker performs exceptionally well. The food it produces is outstanding. I’ve cooked tri-tip, ribs, pork sirloin roast, pork butt, and steak. I highly recommend using the grill grates for steak—they work wonders. The food has a much stronger smoky flavor compared to my previous smoker.
I did encounter a couple of small issues and had to call customer service. First, the smoke stack had a bad weld spot, causing it to drip. They promptly sent me a new one, which resolved the issue. Second, during my third cook, the WiFi wouldn’t connect, and Bluetooth wouldn’t either. Customer service was exceptional; they provided me with a reset procedure and assured me that they would address the problem regardless of its nature. Interestingly, the next time I turned it on, it worked fine without needing a reset, and it’s been working flawlessly ever since. Additionally, customer service followed up with me to ensure I received the new smoke stack and to check if I was experiencing any further issues with the WiFi. You don’t see that level of responsiveness very often these days.
Overall, this is a 5-star review. I’m very particular and rarely give a 5-star rating to anything, but this smoker and the customer service from Yoder truly deserve it. If you’re considering purchasing one, go ahead—you won’t be disappointed.
Ted S. –
Yoder YS640S Pellet Smoker Review
Arrival and Setup:
I decided to wait before reviewing the YS640S Smoker until I had used it for a while. Nevertheless, my initial impression was consistent with others: it is incredibly solidly built. The smoke box is heavy, and the welds are uniformly well-done. All the parts are heavy-duty, including the smoke stack, which is solid with no signs of slag. The finish on mine had no flaws.
The YS640S arrived boxed on a pallet. After cutting the bands and removing the smaller boxes containing the accessories, you are ready to unpack. Following the directions step-by-step makes the process go very smoothly. The first step is to tip the main box up on end and slide it off the edge of the pallet. The directions state that it requires two people, and indeed, it does! “Heavy” is the key word here. I purchased the basic model with the regular base, and the base pieces fit together very well. All the holes and welded nuts fit perfectly. The YS640S and base were assembled on the driveway and then rolled over the grass to the backyard and onto the deck. By slightly lifting the end with the smaller pivoting casters, it was relatively easy to move across the lawn. Getting it up onto the deck (three steps) was more of a challenge, but two of us managed it. Again, heavy!
Fireboard:
The Fireboard controller achieves and maintains the set temperature very well. It remains stable within +/-1½°. I verified this based on the installed lid thermometer (optional but worth it) and ThermoPro remote reading temperature probes that I already owned. When the lid is opened, then closed, the smoker returns to temperature very quickly. This is due to the heat retention of the heavy-gauge steel smoke box and the Fireboard’s ability to anticipate the need and control the supply of pellets. The Fireboard keeps a nice thin blue smoke coming from the stack when at smoking temperatures.
David P –
I picked up a YS640S a couple of months ago, and it is an absolute machine. I’ve only ever used a Weber charcoal kettle, which I still use for steaks and burgers, but everything else goes on the Yoder now. I think having a charcoal and wood-fired grill is a perfect complement to one another, so I will continue to use both.
The way the Yoder is packaged makes assembly very straightforward, which is good because it’s over 300 pounds and very solidly built.
I have cooked ribs, pork shoulders, turkeys, chicken, and tri-tips on it so far, and the way it always makes tender and juicy meat makes it a big hit when family is over and I’m cooking.
I would definitely buy it again; very happy overall with the build and cooking quality.
Aaron T. –
Bought a YS640 in September. Previously had a Traeger and actually enjoyed it greatly. There is no comparison, however. Yoder is a tank; the WiFi antenna is a game-changer for range. The unit holds temps well even with colder smokes. Waited 4 months for it, and it was worth every penny. Great job, Yoder, in producing a quality American-made product! Would buy another tomorrow!
Patrick Sweet –
Best investment I’ve made! This pellet grill is a BEAST!!!
I’m a rookie when it comes to cooking BBQ, but this grill makes everything turn out spot on!
After doing research for months on end, I’m so glad that I chose a Yoder YS640S!
Jim Fields –
I had a Traeger that I used 4 days a week for 9 years. It served me well. I did a ton of research in order to replace my worn-out Traeger. I ended up buying a YS640 Comp Cart, and it is an amazing grill! If you’re on the fence about buying a Yoder, just do it. It is worth the investment! You’ve heard it before—it’s built like a tank, which means it holds temperature like no other. The smoke is continuous, which makes the meat taste amazing. I think the meat tastes better than any other pellet smoker out there! I can’t say enough about my YS640. It has so many cool features: searing capability, a WiFi controller that interfaces with your phone, an adjustable damper. Plus, it’s made in America!
Matthew Trail –
Bought my Yoder YS640S 18 months ago in New Zealand and WOW, what a machine! The build quality is outstanding, so there’s nothing else to say but Long Live the YODER!!
Carter Brestovansky –
I purchased a YS640S from your company last summer, and I have to say, it has exceeded all my expectations. As a 20-year-old barbecue enthusiast, having the opportunity to learn on both an offset smoker and a Yoder pellet smoker has tremendously improved my skills. Whether it’s steaks, briskets, ribs, pulled pork, you name it, the Yoder has consistently delivered outstanding results.
I truly appreciate the craftsmanship of this solid Made in the USA smoker. Thank you once again for providing such a high-quality product.
Zach Brady –
The only downside was my delayed decision to order, resulting in a month-long wait for shipping. However, once it arrived, I realized this machine is an absolute powerhouse. On the first night, I did a reverse sear tri-tip, and the results were simply amazing. Using the trap door, I achieved an incredible open flame sear that my old Traeger could never match. Setup was straightforward, although I must admit the lift was a bit tricky to manage alone (I’d recommend having another person to assist). Nevertheless, I couldn’t be more thrilled with my Yoder!
Darin Snyder –
I can’t believe I hesitated for so long before getting this smoker. Guys, let me tell you, this smoker is incredible—don’t wait any longer, just pull the trigger and buy it now. I thought I knew how to cook a steak perfectly until I tried it on the Yoder, and let me tell you, it was the most amazing steak I’ve ever eaten. And here’s the thing—I haven’t even used it for smoking yet, but I’m already excited to give that a try. The customer service at Yoder Smokers is truly exceptional, second to none. I couldn’t be happier with this purchase. Thank you, Yoder Smokers!
Delvin White –
I purchased the YS640s in mid-January from Sam’s NW BBQ in Sherwood, Oregon, and the first thing that struck me was its impeccable craftsmanship. I also invested in the trap door heat diffuser and aluminum grilling grates, which have proven to be excellent additions.
Let me tell you, this smoker is absolutely incredible. I’ve already used it 34 times, preparing a wide range of dishes including ribs, tri-tip, roast beef sandwiches, bacon, hamburgers, steaks, chops, hot dogs, and even pizza. It maintains temperature even better than my previous Tra*#^! model, and the sear marks it creates on steaks and chops surpass those achieved with my charcoal BBQ. Instead of emitting thick smoke that could overwhelm the neighborhood, it produces a thin, blue column of smoke ideal for long smoking sessions. The wood flame imparts an amazing flavor to steaks and burgers that’s truly unparalleled.
After experiencing the performance of the YS640s, I can confidently say that I won’t consider purchasing another brand again. In fact, I doubt I’ll ever need to buy another smoker. It’s truly exceptional. I’ve even given it a fitting name: “The Beast.”
Damon Purl –
I’ve been using a YS640 for approximately three years now, cooking on it roughly three times a week. I’ve done countless long smokes for pork butt and brisket, with some brisket cooks lasting over 20 hours. Let me tell you, this machine is absolutely flawless.
About a year ago, I purchased an extra thermocouple and igniter, anticipating that I might need them soon. However, to my surprise, they are still sitting in the box untouched. That’s how reliable this smoker has been for me. Previously, I owned a pellet smoker from another brand starting with a “T,” but I sold it immediately after my first use of the Yoder.
I couldn’t even begin to estimate the number of 20-pound bags of pellets I’ve burned through over the past three years with this smoker, and yet, I haven’t encountered a single issue or needed to replace any parts. It’s truly a testament to the super high quality of Yoder products.
Jesse –
This smoker is incredibly well-built, featuring heavy gauge steel that effectively retains heat. It outperforms other pellet grills by a long shot and doesn’t waste smoke out of the chimney like some others do. I particularly love its versatility.
Justin Goodman –
I’ve been using my YS640 for a few months now, and I have to say, it’s been nothing short of fantastic! Having owned several pellet smokers in the past, I can confidently say that the Yoder stands out as a true tank. The steel construction is robust, thick, and capable of holding temperature like a champ. I’ve never experienced such consistent temperature control during long cooks with any other grill.
Beyond its reliable temperature control, the Yoder boasts some standout features that set it apart from the competition. The integration with Fireboard provides unparalleled data insights for your cooking. While many grills offer the ability to monitor and control temperatures from your phone, none come close to what Fireboard brings to the table.
One hidden gem of a feature I’ve discovered is that when you turn on the grill, all the fans run, even without a fire in the firepot. This makes it an excellent cold smoking machine.
Furthermore, it’s crucial to highlight the exceptional customer service provided by the Yoder brand. Transparently, I encountered an issue with my first YS640. However, within just two weeks, I had a new grill delivered, the old one removed, and received follow-up emails from both the dealer and Yoder. Additionally, I received a follow-up call from customer service to ensure that everything was exceeding my expectations. Every grill is bound to encounter issues at some point, but having a company like Yoder stand behind their product and provide such prompt and thorough support is exactly what I value in a brand. With just one phone call, the problem was swiftly resolved, and every subsequent call has been to ensure my satisfaction. That level of commitment is truly commendable.