Last Updated on September 11, 2023
Did you know that over 75% of grill enthusiasts prefer the convenience and flavor of pellet grills?
If you’re in the market for a new grill, you may be torn between two popular brands: Smokin Brothers and Traeger.
Smokin Brothers has you covered if you’re all about wood pellet grilling and are looking for consistent heat distribution and precise temperature control.
On the other hand, if you want a grill that can do it all—smoking, grilling, baking—and offers innovative features like remote control via the Traeger App, then Traeger is your go-to brand.
This article will help you make an informed decision by comparing these two leading grill manufacturers’ features, performance, and overall value.
So, whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a backyard barbecue enthusiast, read on to discover which grill is the perfect fit for you.
Smokin Brothers or Traeger – Which One’s for You
In this culinary showdown, we’ll dissect the essential factors that will help you decide which grill is your perfect match.
From wood pellet quality to grill models and innovative features, let’s fire up the decision-making process and find out if Smokin Brothers or Traeger is your ultimate grill partner.
Wood Pellet Quality
Both Smokin Brothers and Traeger prioritize the quality of their wood pellets, ensuring that you get the best results every time you fire up your grill.
Let’s look closer at the wood pellet quality these brands offer.
| Brand | Wood Pellet Quality |
| Smokin Brothers | 100% pure hardwood, no fillers |
| Traeger | 100% natural hardwood |
Smokin Brothers takes pride in offering pellets that are made solely from hardwood, guaranteeing a pure and authentic flavor. They do not use any fillers or additives that could compromise the quality of the pellets.
In contrast, Traeger also emphasizes their pellets’ quality, ensuring they are made from 100% natural hardwood.
While the specific types of hardwood used may vary between the two brands, both Smokin Brothers and Traeger are committed to delivering high-quality pellets that enhance the taste of your grilled dishes.
Range of Grill Models
Smokin Brothers’ lineup includes popular models like the SearMate and Premier Plus, which are known for their wood pellet grilling capabilities.
These grills are designed to provide consistent heat and produce a rich smoky flavor, making them ideal for those who enjoy traditional barbecue cooking.
Conversely, Traeger offers a wider variety of models like the Timberline, Pro Series, and Flatrock Series, catering to different cooking styles such as smoking, grilling, and baking.
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, it’s crucial to assess your specific needs and preferences in order to choose the grill model that will best suit your cooking style.
Cooking Capabilities/Features
Smokin Brothers prides itself on its American-made production and easy setup. Their grills are known for their consistent heat distribution and precise temperature control.
With Smokin Brothers, you can achieve that perfect smoky flavor every time.
Alternatively, Traeger stands out with its innovative features and the user-friendly Traeger App.
This app allows you to control and monitor your grill remotely and multitask while your food cooks.
Traeger also offers a wide range of cooking options, from low and slow smoking to high heat grilling.
Whether you prefer traditional methods or cutting-edge technology, both Smokin Brothers and Traeger have cooking capabilities and features to suit your grilling needs.
Accessories and Merchandise
Whether you’re looking for the perfect rub or sauce to elevate your flavors or want to represent your favorite brand with some stylish merchandise, both Smokin Brothers and Traeger have got you covered.
But what sets these two brands apart?
Let’s take a closer look at the accessories and merchandise they offer:
| Category | Smokin Brothers | Traeger |
| Accessories | – Grill covers | – Drip trays |
| – Grilling tools | – Pellet sensors | |
| – Smoker boxes | – Cleaning brushes | |
| – Temperature probes | – Grill grates | |
| Merchandise | – T-shirts | – Hats |
| – Aprons | – Hoodies | |
| – Stickers | – Grilling cookbooks | |
| – Koozies | – Grill mats |
Setup and Ease of Use
In terms of setup, Smokin Brothers takes pride in providing a quick and hassle-free experience. They understand that your time is valuable, and they want to ensure that you spend less time assembling and more time grilling.
On the other hand, Traeger offers a user-friendly experience with its Traeger App. This app simplifies the grilling process for users of all levels.
With the app, you can easily control and monitor your grill from your phone, making it convenient and accessible.
Whether you prefer a straightforward setup or the convenience of a mobile app, both Traeger and Smokin Brothers strive to make your grilling experience as effortless as possible.
Available Flavors of Wood Pellets
Both Smokin Brothers and Traeger offer an array of flavors that will take your barbecue to the next level.
Here are five flavors that will surely elevate your grilling game:
- Classic Hickory: For that traditional smoky flavor that everyone loves.
- Mesquite: A bold and robust flavor that adds a unique touch to your dishes.
- Apple: Perfect for adding a hint of sweetness to pork or poultry.
- Cherry: Adds a subtle fruity note that pairs well with beef and game meats.
- Pecan: Provides a mild and nutty flavor that complements a variety of dishes.
Whether you prefer a classic smoky taste or want to experiment with fruit-infused hints, these wood pellet flavors offer endless possibilities to satisfy your culinary creativity.
So go ahead, choose your flavor and get ready to create mouthwatering meals on your grill.
Do Traeger grills require electricity?
Traeger grills require electricity to power various components such as the display, fire ignition, auger, and fan. This is important because these components play a crucial role in the grill’s functionality.
Without electricity, the display could not show important information such as temperature and cooking time. The fire ignition relies on electricity to start the fire and ensure a consistent heat source.
The auger, which controls the fuel delivery system, also requires electricity to function properly. Lastly, the fan helps to circulate heat and smoke throughout the grill, enhancing the cooking process.
While Traeger grills require electricity, it is worth noting that they use significantly less power compared to an average oven, making them energy-efficient options for outdoor cooking.
Can you use a Traeger in the rain?
You can still use a Traeger grill in the rain as long as you protect it from water spray less than 60 degrees from vertical.
Here are some important things to keep in mind when grilling in rainy weather:
- Cover the grill: Use a grill cover or find a sheltered area to protect your Traeger from direct rain.
- Close the lid: Keeping the lid closed will prevent rainwater from entering the cooking chamber and affecting the temperature.
- Be cautious with electrical components: Make sure to keep the electrical components of your grill dry to avoid any safety hazards.
- Plan for longer cook times: The humidity in the air can slow down the ignition process, so be prepared for slightly longer cook times.
- Watch out for flare-ups: The rain can cause excess moisture, which can lead to flare-ups. Keep an eye on your grill to prevent any unwanted incidents.
Why are pellet grills so expensive?
Now that you know you can use a Traeger grill in the rain, let’s delve into the question of why pellet grills are so expensive.
Pellet grills are renowned for their unique technology, which justifies their higher price tag.
These grills incorporate a range of components, such as a hopper, induction fan, and motorized feed auger, which work together to maintain consistent temperatures and smoke levels.
The hopper holds the wood pellets while the induction fan circulates heat and smoke throughout the grill. On the other hand, the motorized feed auger ensures a steady supply of pellets, allowing for unattended cooking.
This advanced technology, coupled with the convenience and versatility pellet grills provide, contributes to their higher cost.
The quality of materials used and the craftsmanship involved in producing these grills also contribute to their price.
Is it better to smoke with wood or pellets?
If you’re looking for a consistent smoke with minimal ash or creosote build up, using wood pellets is a better option compared to using traditional wood.
Here’s why:
- Wood pellets burn hotter and more slowly than sawdust or woodchips, making it easier to control the temperature, especially when cold smoking.
- 100% natural wood pellets provide a more consistent smoke, ensuring that your food is infused with the perfect amount of flavor every time.
- Using wood pellets reduces the risk of excessive ash and creosote buildup, which can negatively affect the taste and quality of your smoked food.
- Wood pellets are made from compressed sawdust and do not contain any additives or fillers, ensuring a pure and clean smoke.
- The convenience of using wood pellets in pellet grills eliminates the need to constantly monitor and add wood chips or chunks, allowing you to focus on enjoying the smoky flavors and aromas of your food.
Picking Your Grilling Partner: Smokin Brothers vs. Traeger
Choosing between Smokin Brothers and Traeger is a difficult task since there are two respected brands with distinct advantages.
Both brands are committed to high-quality wood pellets and the promise of authentic flavor.
Moreover, they offer a wide range of accessories and merchandise to enhance your grilling experience or proudly display your grilling passion.
Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster seeking precision or a backyard barbecue enthusiast looking for versatility, your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
So, take your time, weigh the options, and find the grill that perfectly suits your grilling journey.
