10 Best Pellet Smokers 2025 in the United States

The Traeger Grills Ironwood XL is an impressive pellet smoker that offers a large cooking area of 924 square inches, making it ideal for large gatherings and extensive cooking needs. Its temperature range of 165 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit allows for versatile cooking options, from low-and-slow smoking to high-heat grilling. The built-in WiFIRE technology is a standout feature, enabling you to control and monitor the grill remotely via app connectivity, which adds convenience for the user.

The EZ-Clean Grease+Ash Keg simplifies the cleaning process, eliminating the need for a drip tray liner. Additionally, the fully-insulated construction and Smart Combustion technology ensure consistent temperature control and efficient burn rates, contributing to better cooking results. The EvenFlow heat shield and Super Smoke Mode enhance the wood-fired flavor while maintaining balanced cooking across the grill surface.

Customization options are plentiful thanks to the P.A.L. Pop-And-Lock accessory rail, which lets you personalize your cooking setup. However, the grill's weight of 243 pounds makes it less portable, so it may not be the best option for those looking for a more mobile solution. Additionally, the high price point and advanced features may be more than what a casual griller needs, making it more suitable for dedicated enthusiasts or those who frequently entertain large groups. The Traeger Ironwood XL stands out for its robust build quality, extensive cooking area, and advanced digital controls, catering to those who prioritize performance and convenience in a pellet smoker.

The Traeger Grills Pro 780 is a solid choice for anyone looking to dive into the world of pellet smokers. With 780 square inches of cooking area, it can handle meals for large groups, making it great for family gatherings or backyard parties. Its impressive maximum temperature of 500°F allows for versatile cooking methods, including grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting, which can cater to various culinary preferences. One of its standout features is the WiFIRE technology that enables you to control the grill remotely through an app, adding convenience for those who like to multitask while cooking.

While the Pro 780 excels in many areas, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Weighing 166.7 pounds, this grill can be somewhat cumbersome to move around, which could be an issue for users seeking portability. Additionally, although it is built with high-quality materials, the fact that it is manufactured in China might raise concerns for those who prioritize locally sourced products. Another point to consider is that while it offers a user-friendly digital controller, not all users may be comfortable with the technology, especially if they're not tech-savvy.

The Traeger Pro 780 is an excellent pellet smoker for those who want versatility and modern features. It’s particularly well-suited for families or entertainers due to its large cooking capacity and ease of use with the app. Just keep in mind the weight and the tech aspects if you're looking for something more portable or simpler to operate.

The Traeger Grills TFB30KLF Tailgater 20 is a versatile and portable pellet smoker, perfect for tailgating, camping, or outdoor BBQ. It offers a generous 300 sq. in. cooking area, which is suitable for preparing a decent amount of food like 12 burgers, 3 racks of ribs, or 2 whole chickens. The temperature range of 180-450°F is controlled by a Digital Arc Controller, ensuring precision and consistency, which is ideal for various cooking styles such as grilling, smoking, baking, and searing.

The 6-in-1 functionality adds to its versatility, making it a great option for diverse cooking needs. The build quality is robust with a steel inner material and porcelain-coated grill grates, which are easy to clean. The foldable legs enhance portability, though at 60 pounds, it might still be a bit heavy for some users to carry around frequently. The 8 lbs. hopper capacity is moderate, providing a reasonable balance between refilling frequency and long cook times.

Setting up the grill is straightforward with a 120V AC power source. While the product delivers authentic wood-fired flavor and has high customer satisfaction (4.5 out of 5 stars from 701 ratings), it ranks #64 in Outdoor Smokers, indicating strong competition in this category. In summary, the Tailgater 20 is well-suited for those looking for a portable, versatile, and efficient pellet smoker for outdoor cooking adventures.