For many people, the idea of owning a grill conjures up images of outdoor parties and cookouts with friends and family. But for those who take their grilling seriously, deciding which grill to buy can be challenging. There are many factors to consider, from price to features to performance. Two of the most popular brands on the market are Pit Boss and Traeger. So, what’s the difference between these two grilling giants?
Both companies offer a wide range of grills, pellet smokers, and grilling tools, making it difficult to decide which one is right for you. In this article, we’ll compare Pit Boss vs Traeger, and explore everything you need to know in order to make an informed decision. We’ll compare the two brands in terms of price, features, and performance so that you can decide which one is right for you.
So whether you’re looking for a high-end grill or a budget-friendly smoker, read on to find out which brand is right for you.
Let’s get started!
Overview of Traeger Grills
When it comes to grilling, there are many different options available on the market. However, one brand that consistently stands out from the rest is Traeger Grills. Founded in 1986, Traeger Grills is dedicated to providing top-quality grills that deliver unbeatable flavors.
The company enjoyed a monopoly in pellet grilling technology for 20 years as a result of the patent and still, it outperforms nearly everyone in the market when it comes to pellet grills. Traeger Grills is the market leader when it comes to wood pellet smokers. Their grills use a revolutionary convection cooking system that uses infrared technology to circulate hot air around food for even cooking. The result is juicy, flavorful food that is cooked to perfection every time.
Besides, you’ll notice high-end features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, temperature control, and higher grilling capacity on Traeger grills.
Whether you’re cooking for a small gathering or a large crowd, a Traeger grill is sure to make your next barbecue a success. However, it’s not the only company that enjoys an excellent reputation when it comes to providing quality equipment for a top-notch BBQ experience. Pit Boss is another name in the industry that is known for its innovative and affordable range of products. Let’s have a look at the overview of what the company is all about.
Pit Boss Grills – An Overview
Pit Boss Grills is one of the leading manufacturers of outdoor grills and smokers. The company was founded in 1999 with the goal of providing quality products that were easy to use and accessible to everyone. Today, Pit Boss Grills offers a wide range of products that are perfect for any occasion. From budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line models, there is a Pit Boss Grill to suit every need.
With a variety of accessories and add-ons, it’s easy to customize your grill to create the perfect outdoor cooking experience. Whether you’re looking for a classic charcoal grill or something more modern, Pit Boss Grills has everything you need to make your next cookout a success.
Now that you know a little bit about each company, let’s dive into a more detailed comparison of the two brands.
Pit Boss Vs Traeger: A Detailed Comparison
When it comes to grilling, both Pit Boss and Traeger offer excellent options that are sure to deliver delicious results. However, there are some key differences between the two brands that you should be aware of before making your purchase.
1. Temperature Control
Traeger is the winner!
Temperature control is one of the most important features to look for when purchasing a BBQ grill. After all, no one wants their food to be either undercooked or burnt. However, not all grills are created equal in this regard. Some models struggle to maintain even temperatures, while others make it easy to adjust the heat on the fly.
When we pit Pit Boss Vs Traeger in a battle of temperature control, the former seems to be having an edge.
Both Traeger and Pit Boss smokers offer excellent temperature control, but there are some key differences between the two. The Traeger smoker features stainless steel cooking chambers for excellent heat retention, while the Pit Boss smoker also offers good heat retention thanks to its quality construction.
However, temperature precision is where Traeger really outperforms Pit Boss.
Traeger grills allow you to set the temperature in 15°F increments, while Pit Boss grills only offer 25°F increments. This may not seem like a big difference, but it can make a big difference in terms of cooking results. For example, if you’re trying to cook a steak to medium-rare perfection, the extra precision offered by Traeger will definitely come in handy.
Read Also: Traeger vs Green Mountain: 8 Important Points To Consider!
2. Temperature Range
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a grill is the temperature range. After all, you want to be able to cook at a variety of temperatures, depending on what you’re making. In general, grills with higher temperatures will be better for searing meat, while lower temperatures will be better for slow cooking or smoking. So, how do the Pit Boss and Traeger compare in this regard?
Most Traeger grills offer a temperature range of 180-400 degrees, while premium models can go as high as 500 degrees. Pit Boss grills, on the other hand, usually have a temperature range of 180-500 degrees. So, if you’re looking for a grill that can reach higher temperatures, a Pit Boss might be the better option. However, it’s important to note that both brands offer grills with multiple temperature settings, so you’ll be able to find an option that suits your needs no matter what.
3. Cooking Area
When it comes to the grilling area, both brands offer a lot of versatility. Pit Boss offers a wide variety of grilling areas, from small portable grills to large ones that can accommodate a party.
Traeger also offers a wide variety of grilling areas, from small ones that are perfect for tailgating to large ones that can accommodate a family reunion. Both brands offer a lot of options when it comes to a grilling area, so it’s hard to say which one is better.
For instance, the Traeger Timberline 1300 is one of the largest Traeger grills on the market that offers a stunning 1343 square inches of grilling space. You can also go for Traeger 885, which offers 885 square inches of cooking capacity if you are looking for a midsized BBQ machine.
On the other hand, Pit Boss Pro Series 1600 offers a mighty 1598 square inches of cooking space. Similarly, if you want a reduced cooking range, you can go for PIT BOSS PB1230SP which offers 1261 square inches of cooking area.
Overall, it’s safe to say that they’re both great at offering a lot of options for people who want to grill.
4. Affordability
A main selling point of the Pit Boss is its affordability. Unlike some high-end pellet grills that can cost upwards of $1,000, the Pit Boss is available at a much more reasonable price point. This makes it an ideal option for budget-conscious shoppers who still want to enjoy all the features and benefits of a pellet grill.
Pit Boss also comes with a number of features that are typically only found on more expensive grills, such as a digital control panel and PID temperature control. As such, the Pit Boss offers excellent value for money and is sure to be a popular choice amongst grillers of all budgets.
By contrast, Traeger is a premium brand that typically charges more for its products. However, it’s important to note that both brands offer a wide range of smokers at different price points, so it’s possible to find an affordable option if you’re on a budget.
5. Premium Features
When it comes to premium features, Traeger is the clear winner. Their WiFire technology allows you to control your grill from anywhere, meaning you can adjust the temperature, set timers, and check your progress without ever having to step foot outside. Pit Boss does offer some similar features, but they pale in comparison to the convenience and flexibility of Traeger’s system.
Traeger’s grills also come with a host of other premium features, like LED temperature displays, automatic shut-off valves, and stainless steel grates. These added touches make Traeger’s grills some of the most sophisticated on the market, and they provide a level of ease and convenience that Pit Boss simply can’t match.
If you’re looking for a grill that will make your life easier, Traeger is the obvious choice.
6. Hopper Capacity
When it comes to grilling, one of the most important factors to consider is hopper capacity. This refers to the number of pellets that can be stored in the hopper, and it directly affects how long you can cook without needing to refill. Traeger grills typically offer a hopper capacity of up to 20 pounds, while Pit Boss machines can offer anywhere between 5-27 pounds, depending on the model.
This makes Pit Boss grills ideal for large gatherings or extended cooking sessions, while Traeger grills may be better suited for relatively smaller groups or shorter cooks. However, it’s pertinent to mention that 20 pounds is also a huge capacity, and it’s more than enough for most people’s needs.
Ultimately, the choice between the two brands comes down to personal preference, the temperature you want to cook, and grill size.
7. Warranty
Most people would agree that a good warranty is an important factor to consider when purchasing any kind of product. After all, a warranty is designed to protect consumers in case of any defects or problems that may arise.
While both Traeger and Pit Boss offer solid warranties on their products, Pit Boss definitely has the edge when it comes to the length of coverage. With a 5-year warranty on its machines, Pit Boss offers an extra 2 years of protection over Traeger’s 3-year coverage.
If you’re looking for a longer protection plan, Pit Boss is the way to go. However, it’s important to note that both companies seem to stand behind their products and offer good customer service, so you’re likely to be in good hands no matter which brand you choose.
Read Also: Pellet Smoker vs Electric Smoker: Which is Better?
Top 2 Traeger Grills Reviewed
1. Traeger Grills Ironwood 885
Looking for a smoker that can do it all? Look no further than the Traeger Grills Ironwood 885 Pellet Grill. This smoker is perfect for anyone who wants to smoke, grill, and bake all in one machine.
Plus, with 885 square inches of grilling space, this smoker gives you plenty of room to work with. You can cook whatever you want, however, you want, and have it come out tasting delicious every time.
Precise Temperature Control
The best part about this smoker is the precise temperature control. You can set it to the exact degree that you need in order to get the perfect smoked meal every time. No more guessing at what temperature your food needs to be in order to come out right – with this smoker, you’ll have total control over your cooking process.
Tech-Laden Features
The Ironwood 885 has Alexa support, so you can control it with your voice. You can also monitor your cook time, temperature, and smoke production through the grill’s built-in Wi-Fi system. Plus, this smoker comes with a digital thermostat controller to ensure that your food is cooked perfectly every time.
Overall, the Ironwood 885 Pellet Grill and Smoker is the perfect grill for larger gatherings if you want a high-end Traeger grill for your next BBQ session.
Read Also: How does a Traeger Grill work?
Features
- 885 square inches of grilling space
- Premium build
- Wi-Fi and Alexa support
- Excellent temperature control
- Perfect for reverse searing
2. Traeger Grills Pro Series 575
Do you love the taste of smoked meats, but don’t have the time or patience to smoke them yourself?
Traeger Grills has the perfect solution for you. The Pro Series 575 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker can reach temperatures of up to 500 degrees, so you can cook your meat to perfection every time. With over 570 square inches of grilling space, this smoker is perfect for feeding a whole family.
Digital Controller
The best part about this smoker is the digital controller. You can set your desired temperature and the grill will automatically adjust itself to make sure your food is cooked perfectly every time. No more guessing if your food is done or not – let the Traeger Grills Pro Series 575 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker take care of it for you. The D2 drivetrain ensures that your food will come out perfectly cooked every time, no matter how much meat you’re cooking.
Quicker Heat Build-Up
The superior heat retention of this smoker means your food will be cooked evenly every time, while the quick heat buildup ensures that your meal will be ready sooner rather than later.
Plus, with six different cooking options to choose from, you’ll never get bored with this smoker. It’s versatile enough to smoke, grill, bake, roast, and braise – making it the perfect choice for any grilling enthusiast.
Read Also: How To Clean a Traeger Grill?
Features
- 575 square inches of grilling space
- D2 drivetrain
- Highly versatile
- Quicker heat buildup
- Excellent heat retention
Top 2 Pit Boss Grills Reviewed
1. PIT BOSS 71820FB Pellet Grill and Smoker
Do you love spending time outdoors cooking food for your friends and family?
If you’re looking for a smoker that will let you do just that, then the PIT BOSS 71820FB Pellet Grill and Smoker are perfect for you. It has an impressive 820 sq. in the cooking area, so you can cook plenty of food at once. Plus, the cast-iron primary grid ensures that your food will come out tasting great every time.
Versatility
The best part is that this smoker is incredibly versatile – perfect for everything from ribs to brisket to salmon. You’ll be able to cook up all your favorite smoked dishes with ease. And thanks to the intelligent design, cleanup is a breeze too. Plus, the 180-500 degree temperature range means you can smoke whatever you like, however you like.
Easy Assembly
This smoker is made with high-quality materials and is very easy to put together. You will be able to produce delicious food with this smoker in no time at all. Moreover, the LED read-out makes it easy to keep track of your cooking progress, so you’ll never have to worry about undercooking or overcooking your food again.
Overall, the PIT BOSS 71820FB Pellet Grill and Smoker is another perfect smoker to consider!
Features
- 820 sq. in Cooking Area
- 180-500 degrees range
- Perfect for Open Flame Searing
- Easy Assembly
- Awesome Flavor
2. Pit Boss Classic Wood Fired Pellet Grill & Smoker
The Pit Boss Classic Wood-Fired Pellet Grill & Smoker is perfect for anyone who wants to sear steaks one day and smoke ribs the next. It has 700 sq inches of grilling area, so you can cook whatever you want, whenever you want.
Powder-Coated Steel Build
The powder-coated steel build ensures durability and longevity, while the perfect for searing temperature lets you get that beautiful crust on your meat every time. You’ll never have to worry about your food not coming out the way you want it to again. The powder-coated steel build ensures that your grill will last for years to come, while the perfect temperature control allows you to smoke whatever you please.
As a result, this 700 sq inch smoker is perfect for searing up some delicious meats and vegetables.
Tender and Juicy Steaks
You’ll never have to worry about tough or dry meat again. The Pit Boss Classic Wood Fired Pellet Grill & Smoker will give you tender and juicy steaks every time – no matter how big they are. And because it’s so easy to use, you’ll be able to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time cooking it.
With this smoker, you can cook your food to perfection every time. You’ll never have to worry about undercooked or overcooked food again. Plus, the temperature control ensures that your food will always come out just the way you want it.
Check out these 10 Best Propane Grills under $500!
Features
- 700 square inches of cooking space
- Powder-coated construction
- Porcelain-coated grids
- Perfect for tender and juicy steaks
FAQs
Are Pit Boss and Traeger Grills the same?
The answer is no, they are two different companies. Both companies offer high-quality grills, smokers, and accessories. However, there are some subtle differences that have been discussed above!
Are Pit Boss Grills made in China?
Yes, pit boss grills are made in China. After manufacturing, the grills are then shipped to the United States. Manufacturing in China reduces the cost of production for the company. As a result, it can compete with market giants, including Traeger.
How long do Traeger Grills last?
Traeger Grills are built to last. Your Traeger Grill can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. In general, you should at least expect your Traeger Grill to last for about 7-10 years. Of course, this will depend on how often you use your grill and how well you take care of it. If you take good care of your grill, it could last even longer!
Final Words
If you’re in the market for a new grill, you may be wondering whether to choose a Traeger or a Pit Boss. Both types of grills have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together an overview of Traeger and Pit Boss grills, as well as a detailed comparison of the two.
We’ve also reviewed the top two grills from each brand, to give you an idea of what’s available. So whether you’re looking for the perfect backyard BBQ or the ultimate tailgating setup, we’ve got you covered. Thanks for reading!