I just can't say enough how thankful I am with all this advice....even this part of the process is a lot of fun!!!
That is the spirit! Enjoy the processes of inquiry, research, and decision making. All of those will add up to you finding what suits your specific needs best.
I give this bit of advice fairly often: Make a list of your priorities for this purchase. Organize them in most to least important. Make copies. For each pit you look at - think of it as an "interview". The pit is looking to be hired for a job you have created, with some specific requirements. Score each pit based on your observations and findings.
The parameters might include:
size - what is the
useable area of the grilling surface. Height as well as surface area are important here.
construction - This is partially responsible for durability, with some variables.
warranty - plain enough....
availability - is there local dealer support? Not absolutely necessary...but it is a plus.
upgradeability - important to me - but maybe not to everyone
manufacturer responsiveness - this includes customer and product.
knowledge base - are there owner's groups that can answer questions, make suggestions and offer advice for the product
cost - surely not the last on the list...but it should not be first either. Try hard to not allow it to become "the" factor in the decision.
There are other things you may want to include in your own list. And - you need to prioritize them as fits YOUR needs.
Best of luck, and keep us posted on your progress.
T