Traeger Pro Series Gen 1 vs Gen 2

Hi, I’m Chris. About Me

I’ve been watching the pellet grill market grow year on year in popularity for more than a decade. Traeger was the first to market with a wood pellet grill in the 1980s and is still the market leader to this day. While their top-of-the-range Traeger Timberline pellet grills show what’s possible at the ‘cutting edge’ of pellet smokers, what about their most popular grills? Well, for many years, their most popular grill has been the Pro Series, now in its second generation.

Traeger Pro Series Gen 1 vs Gen 2
For many years, the Traeger Pro Series 34 (left) has been Traeger’s most popular pellet grill. But how does it compare to the Gen 2 Pro Series 780 (Right)?: Images – Traeger.com

Update: You may also want to check out my Traeger Pro Series vs Ironwood comparison to see if you would get more value from upgrading or not.

Disclaimer: Hey! By the way… any links on this page that lead to products on Amazon or other sites are affiliate links, and I earn a commission if you make a purchase.

Introduction To The Traeger Pro Series Pellet Grills

Below, I’ve included our database prefiltered for Traeger pellet grills and smokers, and you can use the search box and type in ‘Pro Series’ to further narrow down the selection.

PelHeat Pellet Grill/Smoker Database

Updated December 2023
Make/ModelTypical Price ($)Pellet Grill/Smoker TypeTotal Cooking Area (sq.in):Main Grate (sq.in):Cooking Surfaces:Hopper Size (lbs):Low Temp (°F):High Temp (°F):Direct Flame?PID?WiFi/App?Made In The US?Released:Brand:Model Number:My Article:Availability:
GMG Trek Prime 2.0499Portable22022019150550NoYesYesNo2023GMGBBQGuys.com
GMG Ledge Prime 2.0999Horizontal436436118150550NoYesYesNo2023GMGBBQGuys.com
GMG Peak Prime 2.01,199Horizontal608608118150550NoYesYesNo2023GMGBBQGuys.com
recteq DualFire 12001,799Horizontal/Stainless Steel1,208302370180700NoYesYesNo2023RecTeqRecTeq.com
recteq Flagship 11001,299Horizontal/Stainless Steel1,109655240180700NoYesYesNo2023RecTeqRecTeq.com
recteq Backyard Beast 10001,099Horizontal/Stainless Steel1,014587230180700NoYesYesNo2023RecTeqRecTeq.com
recteq SmokeStone 600999Griddle778778117300600NoYesYesNo2023RecTeqRecTeq.com
recteq Deck Boss 590899Horizontal/Stainless Steel590590130180700NoYesYesNo2023RecTeqRecTeq.com
Camp Chef Woodwind 24 999Horizontal/Stainless Steel811429222160500YesYesYesNo2023Camp ChefClick HereCampChef.com
Camp Chef Woodwind 24 SideKick1,299Pellet/Gas Combo811429222160500YesYesYesNo2023Camp ChefClick HereCampChef.com
Camp Chef Woodwind 36 SideKick1,499Pellet/Gas Combo1,236663222160500YesYesYesNo2023Camp ChefClick HereCampChef.com
Camp Chef Woodwind 361,199Horizontal/Stainless Steel1,236663222160500YesYesYesNo2023Camp ChefClick HereCampChef.com
Cabela's Pro Series 36"799Horizontal1,236633222180450YesYesYesNo2023CabelasCamp Chef vs Cabela’s Pellet Grills – Which Are Better?Cabelas.com
Cabela's Pro Series 24"699Horizontal811429222180450YesYesYesNo2023CabelasCamp Chef vs Cabela’s Pellet Grills – Which Are Better?Cabelas.com
Cabela's Deluxe 24599Horizontal570429218180450NoYesNoNo2023CabelasCamp Chef vs Cabela’s Pellet Grills – Which Are Better?Cabelas.com
Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven399Electric Oven18018010105700No-NoNo2023NinjaNinja Woodfire Outdoor OvenNinjaKitchen.com
Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Pro Connect XL499Electric Grill18018010105700No-YesNo2023NinjaNinja Woodfire Outdoor Grill Pro Connect XLNinjaKitchen.com
Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill399Electric Grill14114110105700No-NoNo2023NinjaNinja Woodfire Outdoor GrillNinjaKitchen.com
Brisk It Origin-580899Horizontal580428222180500NoYesYesNo2023Brisk ItBrisk It Origin-580BriskItGrills.com
Merax Ceramic1,263Ceramic465465112180500NoYesNoNo2023MeraxMerax CeramicHomeDepot.com
Nexgrill Oakford 580449Horizontal581400222160550NoYesYesNo2023NexgrillNexgrill Oakford 580HomeDepot.com
Nexgrill Oakford 1400499Vertical1,3880580150420-YesYesNo2023NexgrillNexgrill Oakford 1400HomeDepot.com
Nexgrill Oakford 1000649Horizontal1,008671232160550NoYesYesNo2023NexgrillNexgrill Oakford 1000HomeDepot.com
Nexgrill Oakford 790549Horizontal790527232160550NoYesYesNo2023NexgrillNexgrill Oakford 790HomeDepot.com
HiMombo 570319Horizontal570305223180450YesNoNoNo2023HiMomboHiMombo 570Walmart.com
ASMOKE AS550P449Horizontal5150213180500YesNoNoNo2023ASMOKEASMOKE AS550PASMOKE.com
ASMOKE AS550419Horizontal5150213180500YesNoNoNo2023ASMOKEASMOKE AS550ASMOKE.com
ASMOKE AS700P749Horizontal7000226180500YesYesNoNo2023ASMOKEASMOKE AS700PASMOKE.com
Z Grills 550C499Horizontal553406210180450NoYesNoNo2023Z GrillsZ Grills 550CZGrills.com
Z Grills 10502B599Horizontal1,080443312180450NoYesNoNo2023Z GrillsZ Grills 10502BZGrills.com
Z Grills 7002C2E/7002F2559Horizontal697504224180450NoYesNoNo2023Z GrillsZ Grills 7002C2E/7002F2ZGrills.com
Z Grills 7002C/7002F519Horizontal697494224180450NoYesNoNo2023Z GrillsZ Grills 7002C/7002FZGrills.com
recteq RT-B380X Bullseye Deluxe799Horizontal/Stainless Steel3803801182001,000NoYesYesNo2023RecTeqrecteq RT-B380X Bullseye Deluxerecteq.com
recteq Patio Legend 410699Horizontal/Stainless Steel410410114180700NoYesYesNo2023RecTeqrecteq Patio Legend 410recteq.com
recteq Road Warrior 340P599Portable/Stainless Steel340340114180700NoYesNoNo2023RecTeqrecteq Road Warrior 340Precteq.com
HALO Prime 11001,099Horizontal/Built-In1,129610218180500YesYesYesNo2023HALOHALO Prime 1100BBQGuys.com
HALO Prime 15001,299Horizontal/Built-In1,474901227180500YesYesYesNo2023HALOHALO Prime 1500BBQGuys.com
HALO Prime 550809Horizontal/Built-In553386214180500YesYesYesNo2023HALOHALO Prime 550BBQGuys.com
Weber SmokeFire Sear+ ELX61,599Horizontal1,157648322180600YesYesYesUS Assembled2023WeberWeber SmokeFire Sear+ ELX6BBQGuys.com
Weber SmokeFire Sear+ ELX41,399Horizontal771432322180600YesYesYesUS Assembled2023WeberWeber SmokeFire Sear+ ELX4BBQGuys.com
Camp Chef XXL Pro899Vertical/Smoke Box1,8060630150350-YesYesNo2023Camp ChefCamp Chef XXL ProCampChef.com
Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 36 SideKick1,799Pellet/Gas Combo1,236663322160500YesYesYesNo2023Camp ChefCamp Chef Woodwind Pro 36 SideKickCampChef.com
Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 361,499Horizontal/Smoke Box1,236663222160500NoYesYesNo2023Camp ChefCamp Chef Woodwind Pro 36CampChef.com
Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 24 SideKick1,449Pellet/Gas Combo811429322160500YesYesYesNo2023Camp ChefCamp Chef Woodwind Pro 24 SideKickCampChef.com
Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 241,199Horizontal/Smoke Box811429222160500NoYesYesNo2023Camp ChefCamp Chef Woodwind Pro 24CampChef.com
Pit Boss 4-Series Onyx Edition474Vertical1,3000565130420-YesNoNo2023Pit BossPit Boss 4-Series Onyx EditionWalmart.com
Pit Boss Pro Series Elite 6-Series (Gen 3)899Vertical1,5000570130420-YesYesNo2023Pit BossPit Boss Pro Series Elite 6-Series (Gen 3)Lowes.com
Pit Boss Pro Series 1600 (Gen 3)999Horizontal1,598711232180500YesYesYesNo2023Pit BossSKU: 10981Pit Boss Pro Series 1600 (Gen 3)Lowes.com
Pit Boss Pro Series 1150 (Gen 3)699Horizontal1,150711232180500YesYesYesNo2023Pit BossSKU: 10980Pit Boss Pro Series 1150 (Gen 3)Lowes.com
Pit Boss Pro Series Elite 1600 PSE (Gen 3)1,399Horizontal 1,598711332180500YesYesYesNo2023Pit BossSKU: 10982Pit Boss Pro Series Elite 1600 PSE (Gen 3)Lowes.com
Pit Boss Savannah Onyx Edition597Horizontal1,507633328180500YesYesNo (Optional)No2023Pit BossPit Boss Savannah Onyx EditionWalmart.com
Pit Boss Austin XL 1000 Onyx Edition497Horizontal1,008720230180500YesYesNo (Optional)No2023Pit BossPit Boss Austin XL 1000 Onyx EditionWalmart.com
Pit Boss Lexington 500 Onyx Edition327Horizontal543373215180500YesYesNoNo2023Pit BossPit Boss Lexington 500 Onyx EditionWalmart.com
Pit Boss Portable Battery Pellet Grill499Tabletop25625617180500YesNoNoNo2023Pit BossPit Boss Portable Battery Pellet GrillPitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Sportsman 16001,099Horizontal1,598711330180500YesNoYesNo2023Pit BossPit Boss Sportsman 1600PitBoss-Grills.com
Traeger Ironwood XL (Gen 2)1,999Horizontal925594222180500NoYesYesNo2023TraegerTFB93RLGTraeger Ironwood XL (Gen 2)Traeger.com
Traeger Ironwood (Gen 2)1,799Horizontal616 396 222 180500NoYesYesNo2023TraegerTFB61RLGTraeger Ironwood (Gen 2)Traeger.com
Member's Mark Pro Series499Horizontal1,0340324180500NoYesNoNo2022Member's MarkMember's Mark Pro SeriesSamsClub.com
Lone Star Grillz 20" x 42"2,895Horizontal1,278735240160450YesYesYesUS Made2022Lone Star GrillzLone Star Grillz 20" x 42"LoneStarGrillz.com
Lone Star Grillz 20" x 36"2,695Horizontal1,062609240160450YesYesYesUS Made2022Lone Star GrillzLone Star Grillz 20" x 36"LoneStarGrillz.com
Lifetime Pellet/Gas Grill1,299Pellet/Gas Combo7420220180700YesYesYesNo2022LifetimeLifetime Pellet/Gas GrillAmazon.com
KANDO Gear Champ3,795Horizontal1,113665220160500YesYesYesUS Made2022KANDO GearKANDO Gear ChampKandoGear.com
KANDO Gear K4802,995Horizontal750456220160500YesYesYesUS Made2022KANDO GearKANDO Gear K480KandoGear.com
USSC Grills USG730SS874Horizontal 7300224180500NoYesNoNo2022USSC GrillsUSSC Grills USG730SSHomeDepot.com
Monument Grills 26-In529Horizontal7030220180500YesYesNoNo2022Monument GrillsMonument Grills 26-InHomeDepot.com
USSC Grills Portable343Tabletop295295112180500YesYesNoNo2022USSC GrillsUSSC Grills PortableHomeDepot.com
Oklahoma Joe's Rider DLX (Gen 2)699Horizontal906578220200600YesYesNoNo2022Oklahoma JoesOklahoma Joe's Rider DLX (Gen 2)HomeDepot.com
LifePro SCSP2000LP644Horizontal2,0000330180500NoYesNoNo2022LifeProLifePro SCSP2000LPWalmart.com
LifePro SCSP1500LP558Horizontal1,5000330180500NoYesNoNo2022LifeProLifePro SCSP1500LPWalmart.com
Royal Gourmet PL2032397Horizontal802640225180500NoNoNoNo2022Royal GourmetRoyal Gourmet PL2032Walmart.com
Costway Pellet Grill239Tabletop256256113180450NoNoNoNo2022CostwayCostway Pellet GrillWalmart.com
ASMOKE AS660499Horizontal7000226180500YesNoNoNo2022ASMOKEASMOKE AS660ASMOKE.com
ASMOKE AS660N-1529Horizontal7000226180500YesNoNoNo2022ASMOKEASMOKE AS660N-1ASMOKE.com
ASMOKE AS300249Tabletop25625614180500YesNoNoNo2022ASMOKEASMOKE AS300ASMOKE.com
ASMOKE AS350429Tabletop25625614180500YesNoNoNo2022ASMOKEASMOKE AS350ASMOKE.com
Z Grills 7052B WiFi899Horizontal709461228160500NoYesYesNo2022Z GrillsZ Grills 7052B WiFiZGrills.com
Z Grills 11002B WiFi1,299Horizontal1,068693228160500NoYesYesNo2022Z GrillsZ Grills 11002B WiFiZGrills.com
Z Grills 700D4E649Horizontal697504220180450NoYesNoNo2022Z GrillsZ Grills 700D4EZGrills.com
Z Grills 700D3609Horizontal697504220180450NoYesNoNo2022Z GrillsZ Grills 700D3ZGrills.com
Z Grills Cruiser 200A299Tabletop20220218180450NoNoNoNo2022Z GrillsZ Grills Cruiser 200AZGrills.com
recteq RT-1070 Cabinet1,399Horizontal/Stainless Steel1,070532230180700NoYesYesNo2022RecTeqrecteq RT-1070 Cabinetrecteq.com
recteq RT-10701,199Built-In/Stainless Steel1,070532230180700NoYesYesNo2022RecTeqrecteq RT-1070Amazon.com
recteq RT-12501,519Horizontal/Stainless Steel1,250627240180700NoYesYesNo2022RecTeqrecteq RT-1250Amazon.com
Pitts & Spitts Maverick 2000 SS5,899Horizontal/Stainless Steel2,000666335160600NoYesYesUS Made2022Pitts & SpittsPitts & Spitts Maverick 2000 SSBBQGuys.com
Pitts & Spitts Maverick 850 SS4,149Horizontal/Stainless Steel850425235160600NoYesYesUS Made2022Pitts & SpittsPitts & Spitts Maverick 850 SSBBQGuys.com
Pitts & Spitts Maverick 20003,649Horizontal2,000666335160600NoYesNo (Optional)US Made2022Pitts & SpittsPitts & Spitts Maverick 2000BBQGuys.com
Pitts & Spitts Maverick 1250 SS5,149Horizontal/Stainless Steel1,250625235160600NoYesYesUS Made2022Pitts & SpittsPitts & Spitts Maverick 1250 SSBBQGuys.com
Pitts & Spitts Maverick 8502,149Horizontal850425235160600NoYesNo (Optional)US Made2022Pitts & SpittsPitts & Spitts Maverick 850BBQGuys.com
Pitts & Spitts Maverick 12502,549Horizontal1,250625235160600NoYesNo (Optional)US Made2022Pitts & SpittsPitts & Spitts Maverick 1250BBQGuys.com
Oklahoma Joe's Anthem Series Rider DLX899Horizontal1,234578320180650YesYesNoNo2022Oklahoma JoesOklahoma Joe's Anthem Series Rider DLXBBQGuys.com
Memphis Grills Pro ITC3 28-Inch4,499Horizontal/Stainless Steel568432218180650YesYesYesNo2022Memphis GrillsMemphis Grills Pro ITC3 28-InchBBQGuys.com
Memphis Grills Pro ITC3 Built-In 28-Inch4,049Built-In/Stainless Steel568432218180650YesYesYesNo2022Memphis GrillsMemphis Grills Pro ITC3 Built-In 28-InchBBQGuys.com
Memphis Grills Elite ITC3 39-Inch5,399Horizontal/Stainless Steel848644224180700YesYesYesNo2022Memphis GrillsMemphis Grills Elite ITC3 39-InchBBQGuys.com
Memphis Grills Elite ITC3 Built-In 39-Inch4,949Built-In/Stainless Steel848644224180700YesYesYesNo2022Memphis GrillsMemphis Grills Elite ITC3 Built-In 39-InchBBQGuys.com
HALO Prime 300494Tabletop301215210180500YesYesNoNo2022HALOHALO Prime 300BBQGuys.com
Cuisinart 24-Inch CPG-256399Tabletop25618824180500NoNoNoNo2022CuisinartCuisinart 24-Inch CPG-256BBQGuys.com
Cuisinart 52-Inch CPG-700799Horizontal700484221180500NoNoNoNo2022CuisinartCuisinart 52-Inch CPG-700BBQGuys.com
Cuisinart 45-Inch CPG-465599Horizontal465304213180500NoNoNoNo2022CuisinartCuisinart 45-Inch CPG-465BBQGuys.com
Camp Chef MZGX 24599Horizontal776429218160500YesYesYesNo2022Camp ChefCamp Chef MZGX 24CampChef.com
Camp Chef Apex 36 Gas Kit2,449Pellet/Gas Combo1,236663230160500YesYesYesNo2022Camp ChefCamp Chef Apex 36 Gas KitCampChef.com
Camp Chef Apex 36 1,999Horizontal1,236663230160500NoYesYesNo2022Camp ChefCamp Chef Apex 36 CampChef.com
Camp Chef Apex 24 Gas Kit2,199Pellet/Gas Combo811429330160500YesYesYesNo2022Camp Chef Camp Chef Apex 24 Gas KitCampChef.com
Camp Chef Apex 241,799Horizontal811429230160500NoYesYesNo2022Camp ChefCamp Chef Apex 24CampChef.com
Pit Boss Competition Series 1230CS1699Pellet/Gas Combo1,261630221180500YesYesYesNo2022Pit BossPit Boss Competition Series 1230CS1Academy.com
Pit Boss Competition Series PBV5P2549Vertical1,6790560150420-YesYesNo2022Pit BossPit Boss Competition Series PBV5P2Academy.com
Pit Boss Mile Hybrid497Pellet/Gas Combo611611115180500YesNoNoNo2022Pit BossPit Boss Mile HybridWalmart.com
Pit Boss Competition Series 1600799Horizontal1,578648326180500YesYesYesNo2022Pit BossPit Boss Competition Series 1600Academy.com
Pit Boss Competition Series 1250699Horizontal1,315540326180500YesYesYesNo2022Pit BossPit Boss Competition Series 1250Academy.com
Pit Boss Competition Series 850549Horizontal849593221180500YesYesYesNo2022Pit BossPit Boss Competition Series 850Acedemy.com
Pit Boss Sportsman 1100799Horizontal 1,610711230180500YesNoNoNo2022Pit BossPit Boss Sportsman 1100PitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Sportsman 820699Horizontal849593221180500YesNoNoNo2022Pit BossPit Boss Sportsman 820PitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Sportsman 500460Horizontal542400215180500YesNoNoNo2022Pit BossPit Boss Sportsman 500PitBoss-Grills.com
Traeger Timberline XL (Gen 2)3,799Horizontal/Built-In1,320 594 322 180500NoYesYesNo2022TraegerTBB01RLGTraeger Timberline XL (Gen 2)Traeger.com
Traeger Timberline (Gen 2)2,999Horizontal/Built-In880 396 322 180500NoYesYesNo2022TraegerTBB86RLGTraeger Timberline (Gen 2)Traeger.com
Ooni Fyra 12 Pellet Pizza Oven349Pizza Oven14414412200950Yes--No2021OoniOoni Fyra 12 Pellet Pizza OvenOoni.com
MAK Grills MAK 3 Star9,499Horizontal/Stainless Steel2,750660230170650YesYesYesUS Made2021MAK GrillsMAK Grills MAK 3 StarBigPoppaSmokers.com
MAK Grills MAK 2 Star Stainless Steel4,499Horizontal/Stainless Steel858429220170600YesYesYesUS Made2021MAK GrillsMAK Grills MAK 2 Star Stainless SteelBigPoppaSmokers.com
MAK Grills MAK 2 Star3,499Horizontal858429220170600YesYesNo (Optional)US Made2021MAK GrillsMAK Grills MAK 2 StarBigPoppaSmokers.com
MAK Grills MAK 1 Star 2,499Horizontal858429220170600YesYesNo (Optional)US Made2021MAK GrillsMAK Grills MAK 1 Star BigPoppaSmokers.com
Blazn Grill Works Grid Iron1,799Horizontal 720720130160500YesYesNo (Optional)US Made2021Blazn Grill WorksBlazn Grill Works Grid Ironmgrills.com
Blazn Grill Works Grand Slam1,599Horizontal468468130160500YesYesNo (Optional)US Made2021Blazn Grill WorksBlazn Grill Works Grand Slammgrills.com
Yoder YS480s Built-In2,579Built-In800480220150600YesYesYesUS Made2021Yoder SmokersYoder YS480s Built-Inatbbq.com
Yoder YS640s Built-In2,639Built-In1,070640220150600YesYesYesUS Made2021Yoder SmokersYoder YS640s Built-Inatbbq.com
Yoder Smokers YS1500s4,995Horizontal1,5001,008220150500YesYesYesUS Made2021Yoder SmokersYoder Smokers YS1500satbbq.com.com
Yoder YS640s Competition Cart3,394Horizontal1,070640220150600YesYesYesUS Made2021Yoder SmokersYoder YS640s Competition Cartatbbq.com
Yoder YS480s Competition Cart2,589Horizontal800480220150600YesYesYesUS Made2021Yoder SmokersYoder YS480s Competition Cartatbbq.com
Yoder YS640s2,399Horizontal1,070640220150600YesYesYesUS Made2021Yoder SmokersYoder YS640satbbq.com
Yoder YS480s2,139Horizontal800480220150600YesYesYesUS Made2021Yoder SmokersYoder YS480satbbq.com
USSC Grills USG890SS1,043Horizontal8900224180500NoYesNoNo2021USSC GrillsUSSC Grills USG890SSHomeDepot.com
Prime Pellet Grills KC King 600845Horizontal600440220180400NoNoNoNo2021Prime Pellet GrillsPrime Pellet Grills KC King 600HomeDepot.com
USSC Grills USG890996Horizontal 890612218180500NoYesNoNo2021USSC GrillsUSSC Grills USG890HomeDepot.com
Buffalo Outdoor390Tabletop25625614180500YesNoNoNo2021Buffalo OutdoorBuffalo OutdoorHomeDepot.com
Oklahoma Joe's Rider 600 (Gen 1)449Horizontal617617120180500NoNoNoNo2021Oklahoma JoesOklahoma Joe's Rider 600 (Gen 1)HomeDepot.com
Oklahoma Joe's Rider Combo (Gen 1)699Pellet/Gas Combo9970220180500YesNoNoNo2021Oklahoma JoesOklahoma Joe's Rider Combo (Gen 1)HomeDepot.com
Cuisinart Bristol391Horizontal505381230180500NoNoNoNo2021CuisinartCuisinart BristolWalmart.com
Lifesmart 510630Horizontal5100215180500NoYesNoNo2021LifesmartLifesmart 510Walmart.com
Lifesmart 20001,415Horizontal2,0000330180500NoYesNoNo2021LifesmartLifesmart 2000Walmart.com
Dyna-Glo 706387Horizontal7060220150500YesYesNoNo2021Dyna-GloDyna-Glo 706Walmart.com
Dyna-Glo 460334Horizontal4600216150500YesYesNoNo2021Dyna-GloDyna-Glo 460Walmart.com
KingChii Pro Series 02265Portable300300111180500NoNoNoNo2021KingChiiKingChii Pro Series 02Walmart.com
Z Grills 450A409Horizontal459331215180450NoYesNoNo2021Z GrillsZ Grills 450AZGrills.com
Z Grills L6002E419Horizontal57233228180450YesYesNoNo2021Z Grills Z Grills L6002EZGrills.com
Z Grills 5502H419Horizontal553406210180450NoYesNoNo2021Z GrillsZ Grills 5502HZGrills.com
Z Grills 450B499Horizontal459331215180450NoYesNoNo2021Z GrillsZ Grills 450BZGrills.com
Z Grills L600D479Horizontal57233228180450YesYesNoNo2021Z GrillsZ Grills L600DZGrills.com
Z Grills 1000D3E669Horizontal1,056428320180450NoYesNoNo2021Z GrillsZ Grills 1000D3EZGrills.com
Grilla Grills Silverbac Alpha Connect Built-In849Horizontal/Built-In692507220180500NoYesYesNo2021Grilla GrillsGrilla Grills Silverbac Alpha Connect Built-InGrillaGrills.com
Grilla Grills Chimp Tailgater599Portable460340215180500NoYesYesNo2021Grilla GrillsGrilla Grills Chimp TailgaterGrillaGrills.com
Grilla Grills Silverbac All-Terrain Alpha Connect1,099Horizontal692507220180500NoYesYesNo2021Grilla GrillsGrilla Grills Silverbac All-Terrain Alpha ConnectGrillaGrills.com
Grilla Grills Silverbac Alpha Connect899Horizontal692507220180500NoYesYesNo2021Grilla GrillsGrilla Grills Silverbac Alpha ConnectGrillaGrills.com
Louisiana Grills SL Series 10001,175Horizontal1,0140218180500YesYesNoNo2021Louisiana GrillsLouisiana Grills SL Series 1000Louisiana-Grills.com
Louisiana Grills SL Series 700974Horizontal6960218180500YesYesNoNo2021Louisiana GrillsLouisiana Grills SL Series 700Louisiana-Grills.com
Louisiana Grills Black Label 300499Tabletop333333110180500YesYesNoNo2021Louisiana GrillsLouisiana Grills Black Label 300Louisiana-Grills.com
Louisiana Grills 4-Series1,049Vertical1,0770460180500-YesYesNo2021Louisiana GrillsLouisiana Grills 4-SeriesLouisiana-Grills.com
Louisiana Grills Black Label Series 12001,199Horizontal1,180758218180500YesYesYesNo2021Louisiana GrillsLouisiana Grills Black Label Series 1200Louisiana-Grills.com
Louisiana Grills Black Label Series 10001,099Horizontal1,028661218180500YesYesYesNo2021Louisiana GrillsLouisiana Grills Black Label Series 1000Louisiana-Grills.com
Louisiana Grills Black Label Series 800999Horizontal809520218180500YesYesYesNo2021Louisiana GrillsLouisiana Grills Black Label Series 800Louisiana-Grills.com
Louisiana Grills Founders Legacy 8001,899Horizontal8460229180500YesYesYesNo2021Louisiana GrillsLouisiana Grills Founders Legacy 800Louisiana-Grills.com
Louisiana Grills Founders Legacy 12002,199Horizontal1,2050229180500YesYesYesNo2021Louisiana GrillsLouisiana Grills Founders Legacy 1200Louisiana-Grills.com
Louisiana Grills Founders Series Premier 8001,399Horizontal8460229180500YesYesYesNo2021Louisiana GrillsLouisiana Grills Founders Series Premier 800Louisiana-Grills.com
Louisiana Grills Founders Series Premier 12001,599Horizontal1,2050229180500YesYesYesNo2021Louisiana GrillsLouisiana Grills Founders Series Premier 1200Louisiana-Grills.com
recteq RT-7001,199Horizontal/Stainless Steel702702140180700NoYesYesNo2021RecTeqrecteq RT-700Amazon.com
recteq RT-590899Horizontal/Stainless Steel592592130180700NoYesYesNo2021RecTeqrecteq RT-590Amazon.com
recteq RT-B380 Bullseye499Horizontal/Stainless Steel380380115200750NoYesNoNo2021RecTeqrecteq RT-B380 BullseyeAmazon.com
Victory 35-Inch699Horizontal936691329180500YesNoNoNo2021VictoryVictory 35-InchBBQGuys.com
recteq RT-25002,599Horizontal/Stainless Steel2,500982353180650NoYesYesNo2021RecTeqrecteq RT-2500BBQGuys.com
recteq RT-12501,519Horizontal/Stainless Steel1,250627340180700NoYesYesNo2021RecTeqrecteq RT-1250BBQGuys.com
GMG Ledge SS Prime Plus929Horizontal458458118150550NoYesYesNo2021GMGGMG Ledge SS Prime PlusBBQGuys.com
GMG Ledge Prime Plus899Horizontal458458118150550NoYesYesNo2021GMGGMG Ledge Prime PlusBBQGuys.com
Coyote 28-Inch C1P282,999Built-In/Stainless Steel609450212175650YesYesNoNo2021CoyoteCoyote 28-Inch C1P28BBQGuys.com
Coyote 28-Inch C1P28-FS3,499Horizontal/Stainless Steel609450212175650YesYesNoNo2021CoyoteCoyote 28-Inch C1P28-FSBBQGuys.com
Coyote 36-Inch C1P36-FS4,399Horizontal/Stainless Steel808594215175700YesYesNoNo2021CoyoteCoyote 36-Inch C1P36-FSBBQGuys.com
Coyote 36-Inch C1P363,499Built-In/Stainless Steel808594215175700YesYesNoNo2021CoyoteCoyote 36-Inch C1P36BBQGuys.com
Broil King Crown 5001,099Horizontal750550218180600NoYesYesUS Assembled2021Broil KingBroil King Crown 500BBQGuys.com
Broil King Regal 5001,799Horizontal825625222180600NoYesYesUS Assembled2021Broil KingBroil King Regal 500BBQGuys.com
Broil King Regal 4001,299Horizontal630500222180600NoYesYesUS Assembled2021Broil KingBroil King Regal 400BBQGuys.com
Broil King Regal 5001,499Horizontal825625222180600NoYesYesUS Assembled2021Broil KingBroil King Regal 500BBQGuys.com
Broil King Crown 400899Horizontal570440218180600NoYesYesUS Assembled2021Broil KingBroil King Crown 400BBQGuys.com
Weber SmokeFire EX6 (Gen 2)1,299Horizontal1,008648222180600YesYesYesUS Assembled2021WeberWeber SmokeFire EX6 (Gen 2)BBQGuys.com
Weber SmokeFire EX4 (Gen 2)999Horizontal672432222180600YesYesYesUS Assembled2021WeberWeber SmokeFire EX4 (Gen 2)BBQGuys.com
Camp Chef Woodwind CL 36 SideKick1,449Pellet/Gas Combo1,236663322160500YesYesYesNo2021Camp ChefCamp Chef Woodwind 36 SideKickCampChef.com
Camp Chef Woodwind CL 361,199Horizontal1,236663222160500YesYesYesNo2021Camp ChefCamp Chef Woodwind 36CampChef.com
Camp Chef Woodwind CL 24 SideKick1,149Pellet/Gas Combo811429322160500YesYesYesNo2021Camp ChefCamp Chef Woodwind 24 SideKickCampChef.com
Camp Chef Woodwind CL 24899Horizontal811429222160500YesYesYesNo2021Camp ChefCamp Chef Woodwind 24CampChef.com
Camp Chef Pursuit 20499Portable501253210160500YesYesNoNo2021Camp ChefCamp Chef Pursuit 20CampChef.com
Camp Chef XT549Horizontal570429218160500NoYesNoNo2021Camp ChefCamp Chef XTCampChef.com
Camp Chef DLX599Horizontal570429218160500NoYesNoNo2021Camp ChefCamp Chef DLXCampChef.com
Camp Chef SG 24749Horizontal811429222160500YesYesYesNo2021Camp ChefCamp Chef SG 24CampChef.com
Pit Boss Pro Series 1100849Pellet/Gas Combo1,260630220180500YesYesYesNo2021Pit BossPit Boss Pro Series 1100Lowes.com
Pit Boss Platinum KC Combo797Pellet/Gas Combo1,001630226180500YesYesYesNo2021Pit BossPit Boss Platinum KC ComboWalmart.com
Pit Boss Pro Series 4-Series (Gen 2)499Vertical1,0770465150420-YesYesNo2021Pit BossPit Boss Pro Series 4-Series (Gen 2)Lowes.com
Pit Boss Platinum Brunswick597Vertical1,1640498150420-YesYesNo2021Pit BossPit Boss Platinum BrunswickWalmart.com
Pit Boss Platinum Lockhart847Horizontal2,136546640180500YesYesYesNo2021Pit BossPit Boss Platinum LockhartWalmart.com
Pit Boss Platinum Laredo 1000547Horizontal1,006528226180500YesYesYesNo2021Pit BossPit Boss Platinum Laredo 1000Walmart.com
Pit Boss Pro Series Portable 150 (Gen 2)299Tabletop25625615180500YesNoNoNo2021Pit BossPit Boss Pero Series Portable 150 (Gen 2)Lowes.com
Pit Boss Pro Series 1150 (Gen 2)699Horizontal 1,155711232180500YesYesYesNo2021Pit BossSKU: 10576Pit Boss Pro Series 1150 (Gen 2)Lowes.com
Pit Boss Pro Series 850 (Gen 2)599Horizontal 850593220180500YesYesYesNo2021Pit BossPit Boss Pro Series 850 (Gen 2)Lowes.com
Pit Boss Pro Series 1600 (Gen 2)999Horizontal1,598711332180500YesYesYesNo2021Pit BossSKU: 10737Pit Boss Pro Series 1600 (Gen 2)Lowes.com
Pit Boss Pro Series 1600 Elite (Gen 2)1,299Horizontal1,597711332180500YesYesYesNo2021Pit BossSKU: 10908Pit Boss Pro Series 1600 Elite (Gen 2)Lowes.com
GrillFest 655421Horizontal655465220180450NoNoNoNo2020GrillFestGrillFest 655Walmart.com
GrillFest 445374Horizontal445312216180450NoNoNoNo2020GrillFestGrillFest 445Walmart.com
Sophia & William Pellet Grill369Horizontal712446218180450NoNoNoNo2020Sophia & WilliamSophia & William Pellet GrillWalmart.com
GMG Davy Crockett399Portable21921919150550NoYesYesNo2020GMGGMG Davy CrockettWalmart.com
Z Grills 700D599Horizontal697504220180450NoNoNoNo2020Z GrillsZ Grills 700DZGrills.com
Z Grills 7002B2E/7002E489Horizontal697504220180450NoNoNoNo2020Z GrillsZ Grills 7002B2E/7002EZGrills.com
Z Grills 7002B509Horizontal697504220180450NoNoNoNo2020Z GrillsZ Grills 7002BZGrills.com
Z Grills 550A429Horizontal585424216180450NoNoNoNo2020Z GrillsZ Grills 550AZGrills.com
Z Grills 10002B2E599Horizontal1,056428320180450NoNoNoNo2020Z GrillsZ Grills 10002B2EZGrills.com
Grilla Grills Alpha Connect929Horizontal488346220180500NoYesYesNo2020Grilla GrillsGrilla Grills Alpha ConnectGrillaGrills.com
Twin Eagles 36-Inch Rotisserie11,378Horizontal/Stainless Steel00213140725YesYesYesUS Made2020Twin EaglesTwin Eagles 36-Inch RottisserieBBQGuys.com
Twin Eagles 36-Inch10,668Horizontal/Stainless Steel00213140725YesYesYesUS Made2020Twin EaglesTwin Eagles 36-InchBBQGuys.com
Twin Eagles 36-Inch Built-In8,559Built-In/Stainless Steel00213140725YesYesYesUS Made2020Twin EaglesTwin Eagles 36-Inch Built-InBBQGuys.com
Twin Eagles 36-Inch Built-In Rotisserie9,269Built-In/Stainless Steel00213140725YesYesYesUS Made2020Twin EaglesTwin Eagles 36-Inch Built-In RotisserieBBQGuys.com
Memphis Grills Beale Street Built-In1,599Built-In/Stainless Steel817558212180500YesYesYesNo2020Memphis GrillsMemphis Grills Beale Street Built-InBBQGuys.com
Memphis Grills Beale Street1,799Horizontal/Stainless Steel817558212180550YesYesYesNo2020Memphis GrillsMemphis Grills Beale StreetBBQGuys.com
Pit Boss Navigator PB1230G1,249Pellet/Gas Combo1,084630216180500YesNoNoNo2020Pit BossPit Boss Navigator PB1230GPitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Sportsman 12301,049Pellet/Gas Combo1,124630221180500YesNoNoNo2020Pit BossPit Boss Sportsman 1230PitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Sportsman 7-Series799Vertical1,8150660150420-NoNoNo2020Pit BossPit Boss Sportsman 7-SeriesPitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Sportsman 5-Series659Vertical1,5130560150420-NoNoNo2020Pit BossPit Boss Sportsman 5-SeriesPitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss 820FB1599Horizontal849592221180500YesNoNoNo2020Pit BossPit Boss 820FB1PitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss 700FB1499Horizontal743518221180500YesNoNoNo2020Pit BossPit Boss 700FB1PitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss 440FB1399Horizontal48237225180500YesNoNoNo2020Pit BossPit Boss 440FB1PitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Navigator 1150999Horizontal1,158711232180500YesNoNoNo2020Pit BossPit Boss Navigator 1150PitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Navigator 850999Horizontal 879593227180500YesNoNoNo2020Pit BossPit Boss Navigator 850PitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Navigator 550749Horizontal542400216180500YesNoNoNo2020Pit BossPit Boss Navigator 550PitBoss-Grills.com
Traeger Tailgater529Portable300 30018 180450NoNoNoNo2019TraegerTFB30KLFTraeger TailgaterTraeger.com
Traeger Ranger449Tabletop176176 18 180450NoNoNoNo2019TraegerTFT18KLDTraeger RangerTraeger.com
Traeger Ironwood 650 (Gen 1)1,099Horizontal649 418 220 180500NoYesYesNo2019TraegerTFB65BLFTraeger Ironwood 650 (Gen 1)Traeger.com
Traeger Ironwood 885 (Gen 1)1,299Horizontal885 570 220 180500NoYesYesNo2019TraegerTFB89BLFTraeger Ironwood 885 (Gen 1)Traeger.com
Traeger Pro 575 (Gen 2)699Horizontal572 418 218 180500NoYesYesNo2019TraegerTFB57GLECTraeger Pro 575 (Gen 2)Traeger.com
Traeger Pro 780 (Gen 2)899Horizontal780 570 218 180500NoYesYesNo2019TraegerTFB78GLETraeger Pro 780 (Gen 2)Traeger.com
Cookshack 32-Inch4,725Horizontal/Stainless Steel784504225160600YesNoNoUS Made2018CookshackCookshack 32-InchBBQGuys.com
Cookshack 30-Inch3,570Horizontal/Stainless Steel784504222160600YesNoNoUS Made2018CookshackCookshack 30-InchBBQGuys.com
Cookshack FEC1005,880Vertical/Stainless Steel1,5640420130400-NoNoUS Made2018CookshackCookshack FEC100BBQGuys.com
Pit Boss Charleston600Pellet/Gas Combo1,260630223180500YesNoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss CharlestonWalmart.com
Pit Boss 5-Series Copper497Vertical1,6590540150420-NoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss 5-Series CopperWalmart.com
Pit Boss Copperhead 7-Series799Vertical1,8150660150420-NoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss Copperhead 7-SeriesPitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Copperhead 5-Series659Vertical1,5130560150420-NoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss Copperhead 5-SeriesPitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Copperhead 3-Series549Vertical7870440150420-NoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss Copperhead 3-SeriesPitBoss-Grills.com
Country Smokers Traveler249Tabletop25625613.5180500YesNoNoNo2018Country SmokersCountry Smokers TravelerPitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss PP150PPG227Tabletop25625617180500YesNoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss PP150PPGWalmart.com
Pit Boss Austin XL447Horizontal1,000720231180500YesNoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss Austin XLWalmart.com
Pit Boss Tailgater297Portable34034015180500YesNoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss TailgaterWalmart.com
Pit Boss Lexington297Horizontal543373215180500YesNoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss LexingtonWalmart.com
Pit Boss Portable Copper297Portable387257219180500YesNoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss Portable CopperWalmart.com
Pit Boss 1000T4499Horizontal1,013710230180500YesNoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss 1000T4TractorSupply.com
Pit Boss 700T1399Horizontal746517215180500YesNoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss 700T1TractorSupply.com
Pit Boss Mahogany 260649Portable387257219180500YesNoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss Mahogany 260PitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Mahogany 150PPS299Tabletop25625615180500YesNoNoNo2018Pit BossPit Boss Mahogany 150PPSPitBoss-Grills.com
Traeger Timberline 850 (Gen 1)2,099Horizontal869 363 324 180500NoYesYesNo2017TraegerTFB85WLETraeger Timberline 850 (Gen 1)Traeger.com
Traeger Timberline 1300 (Gen 1)2,299Horizontal1,343 561 324 180500NoYesYesNo2017TraegerTFB01WLETraeger Timberline 1300 (Gen 1)Traeger.com
Pit Boss 700 Classic397Horizontal700507221180500YesNoNoNo2016Pit BossPit Boss 700 ClassicWalmart.com
Pit Boss 700R2549Horizontal700507221180500YesNoNoNo2016Pit BossPit Boss 700R2PitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Mahogany 1000SC2799Horizontal998698231180500YesNoNoNo2016Pit BossPit Boss Mahogany 1000SC2PitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Mahogany 1000699Horizontal1,021711221180500YesNoNoNo2016Pit BossPit Boss Mahogany 1000PitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Mahogany 820D3649Horizontal849593221180500YesNoNoNo2016Pit BossPit Boss Mahogany 820D3PitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss Mahogany 440 Deluxe349Horizontal51837325180500YesNoNoNo2016Pit BossPit Boss Mahogany 440 DeluxePitBoss-Grills.com
Pit Boss 700FB399Horizontal700507221180500YesNoNoNo2016Pit BossPit Boss 700FBPitBoss-Grills.com
Traeger Pro 34 (Gen 1)599Horizontal884 646 218 180450NoNoNoNo2016TraegerTFB57PZBTraeger Pro 22 (Gen 1)Traeger.com
Traeger Pro 22 (Gen 1)499Horizontal572 418 218 180450NoNoNoNo2016TraegerTFB57PZBTraeger Pro 22 (Gen 1)Traeger.com

I must admit, I find Traeger’s product names a bit confusing.

On first impressions, before you review the specs, most people would think a product with ‘Pro’ in the title is a manufacturers top of the range (professional) offering.

However, with Traeger, that’s not the case. The Pro Series now sits in the middle of Traeger’s range.

And when the older Gen 1 Pro Series models, the 22 and 34, are finally phased out, the Gen 2 Pro Series models will actually be the lowest cost/entry-level Traeger grills.

Yes, you have their lower cost/more basic offerings, such as their portable pellet grill, the Tailgater, but that’s not a full-sized grill/smoker. As the name implies, its more suited to tailgating.

The Ironwood and Timberline grills are their more premium offerings. I believe Traeger has chosen to put the Pro Series as their mid-range offering because it is their most popular grill.

Traeger’s official video on the differences between the Gen 1 and Gen 2 Pro Series pellet grills: Video – Traeger.com

The design, construction and components on all Traeger pellet grills have been very similar across the entire product range up until 2017, when the second generation of Traeger Pro Series grills was launched.

The original Pro Series (22 and 34) had strong BBQ community support behind them, and you will still find many people faithful to these older Traeger pellet grills/smokers.

You could even upgrade older Traeger grills and basic models with the more advanced Traeger Pro Series Controller. On some control panels, you could also adjust the P-Setting.

How does the original Gen 1 Pro Series Controller seen above compare to the Gen 2 Pro Series Controller?: Image – Amazon.com

A notable feature of the Pro Series controller on both Gen 1 and 2 models is the ability to connect an external meat probe to the control panel to monitor internal cooking temperatures. This obviously provides a lot more convenience and enables you to produce even better BBQ.

However, as you will see below, the Gen 2 takes this level of convenience/control to a new level with WiFire integration. You can also fit the Traeger pellet sensor to Gen 2 Pro Series pellet grills.

First, let’s look at the features of the original Gen 1 Pro Series, which is still available today, and for a lower price than the newer Gen 2.

Traeger Pro Series Gen 1 (22 & 34) Overview

The reason I particularly like the video below from the BBQGuys on the first-generation Traeger Pro Series is it accurately and concisely demonstrates the core principles of how a pellet grill operates.

As I’ve been working in the wood pellet industry for so long, I often forget to cover the basics.

The video shows how the BBQ wood pellets flow via gravity to the bottom of the hopper. A horizontal auger then feeds the pellets into the firepot, where a hot rod igniter and an induction fan start the fire.

The temperature inside the grill is monitored by an RTD probe, sending that data back to the control panel to turn the auger/fan on and off. Importantly though, the video discusses how on the first generation Pro Series both the auger and induction fan are fixed speed.

This video discusses the features of the original (Gen 1) Pro Series Traeger pellet grills: Video – BBQGuys.com

The Gen 1 Pro Series features an 18lbs capacity pellet hopper. Now it should be noted that Traeger wood pellets and many other brands come in a 20lb bag. Hence, you cannot quite empty a full bag of pellets into the hopper.

At this point, I do also want to note that its not best practice to empty a bag of grill pellets straight from the bag and into the hopper. There may be excessive dust/fines in the bag from the pellets being mishandled.

Therefore, as I discussed in my Traeger accessories post, you want to use a sieve of some kind to separate the pellets and dust before loading them into the hopper.

The temperature range on the Traeger Pro Series Gen 1 is 150 degrees (smoke mode) up to 450 degrees. The controller then turns the auger and induction fan on and off to regulate the temperature and distribute heat and smoke around the food in the grill evenly.

Traeger Pro Series Gen 1 22 & 34
These are the Gen 1 Pro Series 22 (left) and 34 (right): Images – Traeger.com
  • Total Cooking Area = 572 sq.in (22) & 884 sq.in (34)
  • Pellet Hopper Capacity = 18 lbs
  • Temperature Range = 180 to 450 degrees
  • Direct-Flame Access? = No
  • PID Temperature Control? = No
  • WiFi/App Control? = No
  • Typical Price = $599 (22) & $699 (34)
  • Availability = Traeger.com & BBQGuys.com

Traeger Pro Series Gen 2 Overview

The first difference between Gen 1 and Gen 2 is how Traeger defines the grills. With Gen 1 there were 22″ and 34″ versions, with the number of inches defining the internal width of the grill racks.

With the Pro Series Gen 2, Traeger has decided to define them by the size of the cooking area in square inches. What is important to note about the 575 and 780 is their more vertical pill-shaped barrel.

The increase in height makes it easier to use these grills for cooking certain foods such as beer can chicken. Both the Gen 1 and Gen 2 grills have an 18lb hopper.

Therefore, the Gen 2 grills still cannot take a full 20lb bag of pellets. There are, however some notable and important differences/upgrades between Gen 1 and Gen 2, as discussed in the video below:

This video discusses the features of the upgraded (Gen 2) Pro Series Traeger pellet grills: Video – BBQGuys.com

There are other small differences between the Gen 1 and Gen 2, such as the style of the handles. However, the important differences come down to the control panel.

The Gen 1 Pro Series control panel, while it had a digital display, was actually very analogue in how it controlled the auger/induction fan through the adjustment on the temperature dial.

The new D2 control panel on the Pro Series Gen 2 is all digital and uses a PID algorithm. Hence, it has much more precise control over the auger motor and induction fan.

The other significant difference/upgrade on the Gen 2 is the D2 Direct Drive auger and induction fan, these are now DC brushless motors with variable speed.

Traeger Pro Series Gen 2 D2 Direct Drive
The D2 Direct Drive components of the Gen 2 Pro Series are a big upgrade over the previous generation: Image – Traeger.com

What this means is not only quicker start-up times but more precise control of the cooking process and the ability to more quickly respond to temperature fluctuations.

Say for instance, a cold breeze kicks up and is blowing over the grill. Well, Gen 2 is going to be able to keep a more stable internal temperature at the set range. There is no P-Setting adjustment required on the Gen 2 models.

Another important feature that the D2 controller benefits from is WiFire. This means the grill can be controlled via an App on your smartphone. You can download recipes/settings and upload them to your pellet grill.

You can also monitor the temperature of the grill and the internal temperature readings of the heat probe. Take the example of cooking something like brisket that takes many hours and requires adjusting the temperature of the grill over time.

The ability to control the grill with WiFire remotely is simply far more convenient than cooking on a Gen 1 Pro Series model without WiFire.

Traeger Pro Series Gen 2 575 & 780
These are the Gen 2 Pro Series 575 (left) and 780 (right): Images – Traeger.com

Total Cooking Area = 572 sq.in (575) & 780 sq.in (780)
Pellet Hopper Capacity = 18 lbs
Temperature Range = 180 to 500 degrees
Direct-Flame Access? = No
PID Temperature Control? = Yes
WiFi/App Control? = Yes
Typical Price = $899 (575) & $999 (780)
Availability = Traeger.com & BBQGuys.com

Benefits Of The Gen 1 Pro Series Traeger Pellet Grills

Its not clear for how long Traeger is going to keep selling Gen 1 Pro Series pellet grills, but I hope its for a while yet because I do think they still have a position in the market.

For instance, if someone has never owned a pellet grill before, the Gen 1 series components and controller have a proven track record of providing good consistent performance.

Furthermore, as I discuss in my post on how to fix a Traeger grill, they are many retailers providing all the parts you need to, in most cases, to easily and cheaply repair these grills.

Traeger Gen 1 Pro Series Benefits
It is easier/cheaper to gets parts for the Gen 1 Pro Series models and the grills which cost on average $300 less than the Gen 2 Traeger Pro Series models: Image – Traeger.com

It should also be noted that the Gen 1 Pro Series controller actually has two ports for external meat probe monitoring, whereas the Gen 2 D2 controller only has one external meat probe insert.

Its probably seen as a small difference/benefit to most people, but it should be noted. Another significant difference between Gen 1 and Gen 2 is the price. On average, you will have to spend an additional $300 on a Gen 2 Pro Series pellet grill over a Gen 1 relevant to the different sizes.

Benefits Of The Gen 2 Pro Series Traeger Pellet Grills

There is no discernable difference in the pellet hopper size when upgrading from the Gen 1 to Gen 2 Pro Series. However, it should be noted all Gen 2 grills come with an emptying door on the bottom of the hopper to quickly change over pellet flavours.

What your additional $300 (on average) is getting you is the improved D2 control panel and the improved direct drive/variable speed motors on the auger and induction fan.

In the most basic terms, the Gen 2 Pro Series grills are able to respond quickly and adjust the internal temperature of the grill better than the first-generation Pro Series Traeger pellet grills.

Traeger Gen 2 Pro Series Benefits
The updated Gen 2 Pro Series Traeger pellet grills do cost more. However, the introduction of WiFire could be a ‘game-changer’ in how you can use your time while cooking on the grill: Images – Traeger.com

However, its the introduction of WiFire is where the Gen 2 series really shines. With a Gen 1 Pro Series to monitor the cooking process required you have to get up and go and check that digital readout frequently. Along with the fact that Gen 1 is not able to main temperatures as consistently.

To put it bluntly, the Gen 1 Pro Series takes more work to produce that top-end BBQ food, hence the reason for buying a pellet grill in the first place. Then again, it will cost you more money.

So you have to weigh up firstly how often do you intend to use the grill? Secondly, what type of food do you want to cook? Are you into long/slow cooks like brisket? Or are you looking for a grill to just quickly cook steaks and burgers?

Traeger Pro Series Owner Reviews

After spending some time watching several different owner reviews on the Gen 1 and Gen 2 Traeger Pro Series pellet grills, the video I chose to include in this post is from the YouTube Channel Triple 6 Grill.

In this video, Josh does a side-by-side comparison of the old and new generation Pro Series. He shows how much quicker the Gen 2 575 can recover to the preset temperature after the lid has been opened compared to Gen 1.

Josh from Triple 6 Grill does a side-by-side comparison of the Gen 1 Pro Series 34 and the updated Gen 2 575 Traeger pellet grill

Josh also emphasises the additional height between the racks on the 575, which as I have discussed above, is due to the pill-shaped barrel design as opposed to the round barrel design of the older Pro Series.

As Josh states in this review, the original Pro Series 22 and 34 are still great pellet grills, and for your first pellet grill, they are still an excellent choice. However, the integrated WiFire features on the Gen 2 575 & 780 bring the ability to remotely control your grill, which is a very nice feature to have.

Conclusions On The Traeger Pro Series Gen 1 vs Gen 2

My personal thoughts are that if you can afford that additional $300 or so between the Gen 1 vs Gen 2 Pro Series I think the improvements to the design/shape of the grill and components are worth it.

As Josh shows in the video above. If you live in a colder northern climate or you want to cook with your pellet grill during the colder months of the year, there is a clear difference in performance between the Gen 1 and Gen 2 Pro Series.

However, if you cannot afford a Gen 2 Pro Series, a Gen 1 22 or 34 is still an excellent pellet grill to start you on your pellet smoking journey.

That’s it! I hope you found this post interesting/useful. You can purchase a Traeger Pro Series directly through Traeger.com. They also offer 0% financing starting at only $40 per month.

Traeger does have some strong competition though, for instance, check out my Traeger vs Camp Chef article. I also have lots of other related posts, please check out my Wood Pellet Grill/Smoker Guide. 🙂


PelHeat Pellet Grill/Smoker Database

Research/compare over 240 pellet grills/smokers on sale today


Recent Posts