Since early in my time creating ThisJewCanQue, I’ve been attracted to and a devoted user of Traeger Grills.
As a teacher and a father of twins, the convenience and reliability of Traeger grills have made them an invaluable asset in my kitchen. Balancing a busy schedule, I appreciate the simplicity of Traeger’s design and the consistent results it delivers. Whether it’s a quick weekday dinner or a weekend barbecue for the family, Traeger’s versatility allows me to easily switch between grilling, smoking, and roasting, accommodating various meal preferences. The hands-off approach to wood pellet grilling also gives me more time to spend with my twins while still providing flavorful and well-cooked meals for the entire family. Traeger grills have truly become my go-to solution for hassle-free and delicious family meals.
Here are reviews of Traeger’s main models, based on my experiences and use:
Traeger Tailgater
Small but mighty, the Traeger Tailgater grill was my first introduction to Traeger and quickly became my trusted companion for outdoor gatherings and on-the-go grilling adventures. Its compact and portable design makes it easy to take anywhere – from tailgates to camping trips (and we’ve done both!).
Despite its smaller size, the Tailgater doesn’t compromise on performance, or in fact, capacity. The wood pellet grilling technology imparts that signature smoky flavor to every dish, ensuring a satisfying and authentic grilling experience. The grill’s temperature control allows me to achieve consistent results, whether I’m searing steaks, smoking ribs, or slow-cooking a savory roast. The convenience of the Tailgater truly shines through, making it the perfect choice for those who want quality grilling on the move.
What sets the Traeger Tailgater apart for me is not just its portability but also its durability. Constructed with sturdy materials, this grill can withstand the rigors of outdoor use while maintaining its efficiency. The foldable legs and convenient side handle make transportation a breeze and my first Traeger Tailgater took many trips in the back of my Subaru Outback– to my in-laws in the mountains several times, to my family’s farm for a family reunion, etc. The included porcelain-coated grates are not only easy to clean but also ensure even heat distribution.
We estimate that we’ve cooked over 2,000 pounds of meat in our original Traeger Tailgater. Dozens of turkeys (they fit!), prime ribs, lots of pork butts and tons of other meats. It’s truly a workhorse and while our family uses other, newer models of the Traeger grills these days, my heart will alway have a fondness for my first Tailgater, which I refuse to give away!
With portable power, we’ve cooked everywhere on the Tailgater My first Traeger Tailgater grill My first cook on the Tailgater was homemade bacon 
Grilling with scenery
Traeger Ranger
The Traeger Ranger is a versatile and compact grill that packs a punch in terms of performance. Despite its small footprint, this portable pellet grill is equipped with the same wood-fired technology that defines the Traeger brand. The Ranger is perfect for those who want to enjoy the signature smoky flavor on the go, whether it’s camping, tailgating, or simply grilling in a limited space.
Its convenient size doesn’t limit its on functionality, offering a temperature range that allows for various cooking methods, from high-heat grilling to low-and-slow smoking. With precise temperature control and easy-to-use features, this grill ensures consistent and delicious results for a range of culinary delights.
For me, the Ranger really packs a punch for searing and high-heat cooking. When I first got the Ranger, I really loved the included cast iron griddle plate, which meant we could get a great hard sear on steaks after reverse searing them, whip up fajitas in a flash, etc. The small format of this grill means that you get high heat pretty quickly and we have seared a LOT on our Ranger.
We whipped up lunch in a parking lot at Arches Using my Traeger Ranger shortly after the twins came home
Traeger Pro Series
Traeger’s Pro Series grills are a solid choice for grill enthusiasts who want the Traeger grilling experience without breaking the bank. These grills offer a practical blend of affordability and functionality. Built with durable materials, including steel and easy-to-clean porcelain-coated grates, the Pro Series maintains reliable performance without sacrificing quality.
The wood pellet system, a hallmark of Traeger, imparts that classic smoky flavor to your dishes, enhancing the overall grilling experience. What makes the Pro Series particularly appealing is its affordability compared to some of Traeger’s higher-end models, making it a good option for those seeking reliable grilling without the premium price tag.
We keep a Traeger Pro at my in-law’s house, which means we have the ability to grill at their place without having to haul a grill in addition to all the things that come with twins.
With features like the Digital Pro Controller for temperature management and ample cooking space, the Pro Series strikes a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness, making it a go-to choice for budget-conscious grill enthusiasts.
Traeger Pro 34 (older model) Traeger Pro 575
Traeger Ironwood Series
Traeger’s Ironwood Series grills stand out as the premium choice for those who demand top-notch features and cutting-edge technology in their grilling experience. What sets the Ironwood apart is the incorporation of Traeger’s D2 Direct Drive, a powerful drivetrain that ensures more efficient and precise pellet feed. This results in quicker startups, consistent temperatures, and improved smoke production, elevating the grilling process to a new level of sophistication.
The Ironwood Series also boasts WiFIRE technology, allowing users to control and monitor their grill remotely through a mobile app. This level of connectivity offers unparalleled convenience, enabling grill enthusiasts to adjust temperatures, set timers, and receive alerts right from their smartphones.
One of the key reasons why the Traeger Ironwood Series stands out is its versatility in cooking styles. Equipped with a Super Smoke mode, this series is designed to deliver maximum smoke flavor at lower temperatures, enhancing the taste of smoked dishes. The Ironwood’s ample cooking space, coupled with its innovative features, makes it suitable for a range of culinary techniques, from high-temperature grilling to low-and-slow smoking.
The inclusion of dual-position smoke/sear grates adds to the adaptability of this series, allowing users to switch between direct and indirect heat easily. The Ironwood is my “everyday” grill because it’s a workhorse that includes the technology, precision and versatility that all Traeger grills are known for.
Traeger Timberline Series
The Timberline series features Traeger’s signature wood pellet grilling technology, delivering rich, smoky flavors to a variety of dishes. What sets the Timberline apart is its Tru Convection system, ensuring precise temperature control and even heat distribution throughout the cooking chamber. This results in consistent and reliable grilling, whether you’re searing, smoking, or roasting. The Timberline Series also incorporates the D2 Direct Drive system, enhancing efficiency and responsiveness for a seamless grilling experience.
One of the standout features of the Timberline Series is its impressive temperature range, allowing me to achieve both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking with little effort. The inclusion of three layers of stainless steel grates provides lots of cooking space, making it possible to cook large cuts of meat or multiple items at the same time. Additionally, Timberline grills come equipped with the Super Smoke mode, which I love activating for extra smoky flavor, especially when reverse searing.
The Timberline’s double-wall stainless steel construction ensures durability and excellent heat retention. For those who want top-tier performance, advanced technology, and a spacious cooking area, the Traeger Timberline Series stands as the ultimate choice for a high-end pellet grill.
Traeger Timberline XL Traeger Timberline XL Induction Burner on Timberline
Traeger Flatrock Griddle
Traeger’s Flatrock Griddle offers a unique and versatile cooking experience, diverging from traditional Traeger grill designs. This griddle is specifically crafted for those who love the art of flat-top cooking, providing a large and smooth cast iron cooking surface that’s perfect for whipping up breakfast classics, stir-fries, or smash burgers. The Flatrock Griddle is made from high-quality cold-rolled steel, ensuring excellent heat retention and distribution for consistent results across the entire surface.
What distinguishes the Traeger Flatrock Griddle is its adaptability. Its flat surface allows for even heat coverage, making it ideal for achieving the perfect sear on meats or evenly cooking delicate items like pancakes. The Flatrock Griddle is a game-changer for those who enjoy diverse cooking techniques.
While the Flatrock isn’t powered by wood pellets like the rest of the Traeger lineup, the ability to use propane for hot and quick cooks has come in so handy for our family. Now, the Flatrock is a central piece of our backyard kitchen, and I like to smoke steaks on the Ironwood or Timberline and then sear it on the Flatrock. Whether you’re cooking up a hearty breakfast or experimenting with new recipes, the Traeger Flatrock Griddle opens up a world of culinary possibilities.
Traeger Flatrock Griddle 
Excited for the new Flatrock
