FE PG500 vs FireCraft Q450

I can't really speak for the other models. I've owned my PG500 for over 2 years now.  Even though I use it much less because I do everything in my FEC-100, I used the PG-500 at least 3-4 times a week. Once you figure out the LHT and HHT and season the smoker it pretty much is set it and forget it for smoking in the indirect zones. I loved the grill but have learned how to make my steaks, hamburgers, and sausages much better in my FEC. Do I wish I never bought the PG? NO! It was a great tool and produced amazing food. You will love it. My only issue was the flame starter went out after a year. I never replaced it which it was only $35. I just used a torch and some pellets in the fire pot to jump start it. I hear replacing it is pretty simple. 

I would be happy to answer any questions. Shoot me a PM or reply here.

Hoo posted:

Considering first pellet grill purchase.  Now leaning towards PG500 over MAK, largely due to price, but also due to more readily accessible direct grilling.  Now came across FireCraft Q-450.  Stainless steel with direct grilling available and significantly cheaper than PG500.  Also has PID controller and built in probe port and can stop cook when meat reaches temp.  PG500 lacks the meat temperature probe.  Overall quality of PG500 appears superior and it is American made bs Chinese.

Thoughts?   By the way there appears to be a 15% discount on PG500 good for. Few more days.  

Love my PG500.
I have owned different pellet grills and even FireCraft you've mentioned, All great, but the versatility of the PG series is great for my residential use. It is a great "all in one" machine. Very simple operation (especially since you're a new user), and I have had no problems with temps.

Downsides to me:
Capacity. But, I normally just cook for 2 so it works just fine.

The good stuff is the 4 cooking zones with predictable levels of heat! Which is great for cooking different things at the same time or moving stuff around to control the cooking.

As for FC.  Used it three times and it won't start now I get a code of 1U.,  and I know others have had the same problem.