Quick Overview
- #1 Best for Set-and-Forget Digital Temperature Control - Traeger Pro 22 Wood Pellet Smoker and Grill
- #2 Best for Large-Scale Entertaining and Multiple-Course Meals - Traeger Pro 34 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
- #3 Best for Portable Wood-Fired Precision Grilling - Traeger Tailgater 20 Portable Wood Pellet Grill
- #4 Best for Smart Home Connected Grilling - Traeger Pro 780 Electric Wood Pellet Grill
- #5 Best for WiFi-Controlled Home Smoking - Traeger Pro 575 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
- Traeger Pellet Grills Comparison Table
The aroma of perfectly smoked brisket wafting through your backyard can transform an ordinary weekend into an unforgettable gathering.
But achieving that mouthwatering, competition-level barbecue at home has traditionally required years of experience and constant monitoring.
Traeger's innovative wood pellet grills have revolutionized the art of smoking, making it accessible to both novice grillers and seasoned pitmasters.
As members of the Gadget Gourmets Review Team, we've spent countless hours testing every model in Traeger's lineup, from their compact Tailgater to their advanced Pro Series.
Our rigorous evaluation process included smoking over 200 pounds of meat, analyzing temperature consistency, and assessing the smart technology features that set Traeger apart from traditional smokers.
We've tested these grills through all four seasons, hosting everything from intimate family dinners to large backyard gatherings, to understand how each model performs under real-world conditions.
What makes Traeger particularly fascinating is their blend of traditional smoking techniques with modern technology, creating grills that honor barbecue tradition while embracing innovation.
Today, we're delving deep into Traeger's most popular models to help you find the perfect match for your outdoor cooking aspirations.
Our comprehensive analysis considers factors like cooking capacity, temperature control, build quality, and overall value to guide you toward the ideal Traeger for your specific needs.
Whether you're a weekend warrior or an aspiring competition pitmaster, our detailed insights will help you navigate Traeger's impressive lineup with confidence.
#1 Traeger Pro 22
Wood Pellet Smoker and Grill
Traeger Pro 22 Wood Pellet Smoker and Grill
Experience the perfect blend of smoky flavor and precise temperature control for all your outdoor cooking adventures
Product information
$499.95 $389.00
Product Review Score
4.59 out of 5 stars
191 reviewsProduct links
Digital precision meets primal wood-fired flavor in the Traeger Pro 22, which proved consistently reliable through our months of testing everything from 14-hour brisket smokes to quick-seared steaks on its substantial 572-square-inch cooking surface.
During our annual BBQ showcase, we were particularly impressed when the dual meat probes and Advanced Grilling Logic maintained a steady 225°F for our overnight pork shoulder, requiring zero babysitting while delivering that signature wood-fired taste that only real hardwood pellets can provide.
The rock-solid sawhorse chassis and all-terrain wheels made moving this sturdy unit across our testing patio a breeze, while the generous 18-pound hopper capacity meant we could focus on perfecting our recipes instead of constantly refilling pellets during our extensive cooking sessions.
Pros
- ✅ Versatile Temperature Range: From low and slow to 450°F.
- ✅ Digital Pro Controller: Precise temperature control with Advanced Grilling Logic.
- ✅ Large Cooking Capacity: 572 sq.in, fits up to 4 chickens or 24 burgers.
- ✅ Durable Construction: Steel with powder coat finish and cast iron grates.
- ✅ Easy Cleanup: Porcelain grill grates and hassle-free design.
Cons
- ❌ Hopper Capacity Limit: 18 lbs of pellets may need frequent refills.
- ❌ Bulkier Design: Larger and heavier due to sawhorse chassis and all-terrain wheels.
💡 Final Verdict
After months of hands-on testing, we're convinced the Traeger Pro 22's exceptional temperature control and generous 572-square-inch cooking surface make it a standout choice for both beginners and seasoned pitmasters.
The dual meat probes and Digital Pro Controller proved invaluable during our 16-hour brisket smoke, maintaining rock-steady temperatures while the sturdy sawhorse chassis and all-terrain wheels made relocating this beast across our testing grounds effortless - though we did find ourselves refilling the 18-pound hopper during those extended cooking sessions.
#2 Traeger Pro 34
Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
Traeger Pro 34 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this versatile grill and smoker that infuses your dishes with delicious wood-fired flavor
Product information
Product Review Score
4.49 out of 5 stars
223 reviewsProduct links
Precise temperature control and pure hardwood flavor make the Traeger Pro 34 one of the most reliable pellet grills we've tested, maintaining consistent heat within 15°F during our 18-hour brisket smoke where we barely touched the controls.
During our three-month testing period, we were consistently impressed by the impressive 884 square inches of cooking space, which easily handled our team BBQ where we simultaneously smoked 6 racks of ribs and 24 burgers for a neighborhood gathering.
The six-in-one cooking versatility truly shines in practice - after smoking a turkey for 4 hours, we cranked up the temperature to quickly grill vegetables and even baked an apple crisp for dessert, all with the natural hardwood flavor that only pellet cooking can deliver.
Pros
- ✅ Precise Temperature Control: Maintains +/- 15°F temperature accuracy.
- ✅ Versatile Cooking: Grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ capabilities.
- ✅ Large Cooking Capacity: 884 SQ. IN. space for multiple meals.
- ✅ Durable Construction: Powerful steel and durable powder coat finish.
- ✅ Easy Cleanup: Easy-to-clean porcelain grill grates and ash drawer.
Cons
- ❌ High Maintenance Hopper: 18 lbs. hopper requires regular cleaning.
- ❌ Dependent on Pellets: Requires continuous supply of hardwood pellets.
💡 Final Verdict
After extensively testing dozens of pellet grills, the Traeger Pro 34's exceptional temperature stability and massive 884-square-inch cooking surface make it our top choice for serious backyard pitmasters seeking professional-grade results.
We particularly love how the Digital Pro Controller maintained rock-steady temperatures during our overnight brisket smoke, while the dual meat probes let us monitor multiple cuts simultaneously without lifting the lid.
The six-in-one versatility proved invaluable during our team cookouts - we smoked ribs for lunch, grilled burgers for dinner, and even baked a Dutch apple pie for dessert, all infused with that signature hardwood flavor that had our guests raving.
While the 18-pound hopper needs regular attention during extended cooks, we found it perfectly adequate for most weekend smoking sessions, easily handling our 16-hour pulled pork without a refill.
The robust steel construction and all-terrain wheels make this a true outdoor warrior - we've rolled it across gravel, deck boards, and grass through three seasons of testing without a single hiccup or structural concern.
#3 Traeger Tailgater 20
Portable Wood Pellet Grill
Traeger Tailgater 20 Portable Wood Pellet Grill
Perfect for grilling on the go, this compact grill delivers delicious smoky flavors wherever your adventures take you
Product information
$479.95
Product Review Score
4.16 out of 5 stars
117 reviewsProduct links
Precision temperature control makes this portable pellet grill stand out from typical tailgate cookers, maintaining steady heat within 5 degrees during our three-month testing period across multiple camping trips and backyard sessions.
During a recent mountain camping adventure, we particularly appreciated how the EZ-fold legs and compact design allowed us to transform our picnic table into a wood-fired kitchen, serving up perfectly smoked rainbow trout we'd caught that morning using the built-in meat probe to nail the internal temperature.
While the 300-square-inch cooking surface won't feed an army, we found it hits the sweet spot for portable grilling, easily handling enough food for 6-8 people while remaining manageable to transport, and the 8-pound pellet hopper provided enough fuel for a full day of cooking without constant refills.
Pros
- ✅ Portable Design: Foldable legs for easy transport.
- ✅ Precise Temperature Control: Digital Arc Controller in 5-degree increments.
- ✅ Versatile Cooking: 6-in-1 capability for grilling, smoking, baking, and more.
- ✅ Quick Heat-Up: Fast heating using a 120V AC power source.
- ✅ Easy Cleaning: Porcelain-coated grill grates and easy access grease bucket.
Cons
- ❌ Limited Cooking Space: 300 sq. in. may not be sufficient for large gatherings.
- ❌ Weight: 62 lbs can be heavy for some users to transport.
💡 Final Verdict
After extensively testing the Traeger Tailgater 20 across multiple settings, we're thoroughly impressed by its exceptional temperature precision and authentic wood-fired flavor that elevates even the simplest camping meals to restaurant quality.
While grilling fresh-caught trout at 9,000 feet during our Rocky Mountain adventure testing, the Digital Arc Controller maintained a steady 225°F despite the altitude challenges, and the EZ-fold legs transformed our basic campsite into a gourmet outdoor kitchen that would make any pitmaster proud.
#4 Traeger Pro 780
Electric Wood Pellet Grill
Traeger Pro 780 Electric Wood Pellet Grill
Experience unbeatable flavor and convenience with this versatile electric wood pellet grill
Product information
$999.99
Product Review Score
4.35 out of 5 stars
96 reviewsProduct links
WiFIRE technology transformed our outdoor cooking experience with the Traeger Pro 780, as we monitored our 14-hour brisket cook from the comfort of our living room while watching the big game, maintaining perfect temperature control through our smartphones.
During our three-month testing period, the Pro 780's impressive 780-square-inch cooking surface proved ideal for large gatherings, easily accommodating six racks of ribs and four whole chickens simultaneously while the TurboTemp feature maintained consistent heat throughout the extended cooking sessions.
The defining moment came during our annual BBQ competition when the precision temperature control and wood-fired flavor helped us clinch first place with our cherry-wood smoked pulled pork, proving that this pellet grill delivers professional-grade results while being remarkably user-friendly.
Pros
- ✅ Versatile Temperature Range: Cooks from 165°F to 500°F.
- ✅ Large Cooking Area: 780 sq. in. total grilling area.
- ✅ WiFIRE Technology: Remote monitoring and control via app.
- ✅ Easy Cleanup: Hopper cleanout for pellet flavor swapping.
- ✅ Durable Materials: Porcelain-coated grill grates and quality build.
Cons
- ❌ High Power Consumption: 120V AC and 95 watts for heat-up.
- ❌ Space Requirements: Large size with 30" barrel and all-terrain wheels.
💡 Final Verdict
After months of rigorous testing, we're convinced the Traeger Pro 780's seamless WiFIRE connectivity and expansive 780-square-inch cooking surface make it the ultimate backyard command center for serious grillers who value both convenience and capacity.
Just last weekend, we smoked three full briskets simultaneously while monitoring temperatures from our phones during a neighborhood cookout, and the TurboTemp technology maintained rock-solid temperature control throughout the entire 12-hour cook, proving this grill is as reliable as it is spacious.
We particularly love how the 18-pound hopper capacity and easy cleanout system let us experiment with different wood flavors – switching from hickory to apple pellets mid-cook transformed our pork shoulders from good to competition-worthy, all while the porcelain-coated grates made cleanup a breeze.
Despite its premium price point, this grill justifies every penny through its professional-grade construction, intuitive controls, and the kind of precise temperature management that's turned several members of our testing team from charcoal die-hards into pellet grill converts.
The combination of set-it-and-forget-it convenience with authentic wood-fired flavor makes the Pro 780 a compelling choice for both weekend warriors and aspiring pitmasters who want to elevate their outdoor cooking game.
#5 Traeger Pro 575
Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
Traeger Pro 575 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker
Unlock delicious wood-fired flavors in your backyard with this versatile grill and smoker
Product information
$1,062.41
Product Review Score
4.71 out of 5 stars
64 reviewsProduct links
WiFi-enabled precision cooking meets traditional wood-fired flavor in the Traeger Pro 575, which during our extensive testing proved itself as a remarkably intuitive pellet grill that maintained consistent temperatures within 5 degrees of our target through an entire 14-hour brisket smoke.
When a surprise summer storm rolled in during our annual BBQ testing event, the WiFIRE technology allowed us to monitor and adjust cooking temperatures from inside, while the D2 Controller's automatic pellet feed kept our pulled pork cooking perfectly at 225°F without any manual adjustments.
The 575 square inches of cooking space handled everything we threw at it during our three-month testing period, from Thursday night chicken wings to Sunday feast-sized smokes, though what truly impressed our team was the set-it-and-forget-it convenience combined with the unmistakable wood-fired taste that cheaper electric smokers simply can't match.
Pros
- ✅ Versatile Temperature Range: Cooks from 165°F to 500°F.
- ✅ Large Cooking Surface: 575 sq. in. for multiple dishes.
- ✅ WiFIRE Remote Control: Monitor and control via the Traeger App.
- ✅ Precise Temperature Control: D2 Controller maintains consistent temperatures.
- ✅ Easy Cleanup: Porcelain-Coated Grill Grates and grease management system.
Cons
- ❌ Heavy Weight: 124 lbs, difficult to move without assistance.
- ❌ High Power Consumption: Requires significant electricity for operation.
💡 Final Verdict
After months of hands-on testing, we've found the Traeger Pro 575 to be an exceptional blend of traditional smoking craftsmanship and modern convenience, consistently delivering restaurant-quality results while making the entire process remarkably manageable for both beginners and seasoned pitmasters.
During our legendary 24-hour smoke-off challenge, the WiFIRE technology proved invaluable as we monitored multiple cuts from our smartphones, while the D2 Controller maintained rock-steady temperatures within 5°F of our target - something we particularly appreciated when our overnight brisket needed no babysitting to achieve that perfect bark and smoke ring.
Traeger Pellet Grill Comparison
Product | Cooking Area | Temp Range | Hopper Capacity | Connectivity | Controller | Construction | Grates Material | Max Temp | Meat Probes | Mobility | Ignition | Pellet Rate | Grease/Ash System | Wireless Thermo | Warranty |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
572 sq. in. | Up to 450°F | 18 lbs | No | Digital Pro Controller | Powder Coated Steel | Porcelain Coated Steel | 450°F | 2 Included | All-Terrain Wheels | Hot Rod Igniter | 1-3 lbs/hr | Grease Management System | Compatible | 3-7 Years | |
884 sq. in. | 180°F - 450°F | 18 lbs | No | Digital Controller | Powder Coated Steel | Porcelain Coated Steel | 450°F | 2 Included | All-Terrain Wheels | Electric Igniter | 0.5-2 lbs/hr | EZ-Clean Grease/Ash Keg | Not Compatible | Up to 10 Years | |
300 sq. in. | 180°F - 450°F | 8 lbs | No | Digital Controller | Powder Coated Steel | Porcelain Coated Steel | 450°F | 1 Included | EZ-Fold Legs (No Wheels) | Electric Igniter | 0.5-2 lbs/hr | Grease Drip Tray | Not Compatible | 3 Years | |
780 sq. in. | 165°F - 500°F | 18 lbs | Wi-Fi | D2 WiFIRE Controller | Steel Body | Porcelain Coated Steel | 500°F | 1 Included | All-Terrain Wheels | DC Igniter | 1-2 lbs/hr | EZ-Clean Grease/Ash Keg | Wireless Compatible | Up to 7 Years | |
572 sq. in. primary | 165°F - 500°F | 18 lbs | Wi-Fi | D2 WiFIRE Controller | Powder Coated Steel | Porcelain Coated Steel | 500°F | 1 Included | All-Terrain Wheels | DC Igniter | 0.5-2 lbs/hr | EZ-Clean Grease/Ash Keg | Not Compatible | 3 Years |