recteq vs. Traeger: Which Wood Pellet Grill Should You Choose?

All pellet grills are designed to go the distance with dialed-in temperatures over low-and-slow cooks, but these popular manufacturers continually reset the bar in this department. You’ll find easy-to-use digital controllers with small temperature increments for precise adjustments, along with Wi-Fi capabilities that let you monitor the grill and meat probes via smartphone apps. Traeger’s higher-end grills take wireless connectivity a step further by enabling you to sync with other smart devices like Google Home and Amazon Alexa. As for the controllers themselves, Traeger innovative D2 technology — complete with a variable-speed fan, patented downdraft exhaust, and an industry-first brushless motor — holds an edge over recteq’s PID system.

This is perhaps the most notable difference between Traeger and recteq, with different approaches to solid construction being apparent in the premium materials used by either brand. Traeger gets the job done with powder-coated steel exteriors, while recteq is known for using high-quality stainless steel throughout. That said, higher-end Traeger smokers incorporate stainless steel in components like cooking grates and side shelves, not to mention the 304-grade stainless used in the interior side walls. It’s that double-walled lining in select Traeger's that tips the scales for many customers in terms of quality — better insulation means more stable temperatures, which are vital for any low-and-slow cook.

Generally speaking, pellet smokers from both brands operate in the 180°F–500°F range. Higher-end Traeger Timberline and Ironwood grills start off at 165°F, though we’ll note that’s a negligible difference and most smoking occurs around 225°F anyway. Either way you lean, you will have a versatile grill capable of smoking, baking, roasting, and grilling. (We told you this would be tough sledding!)

There is no shortage of size options among Traeger and recteq pellet grills; both brands offer varied product lines that cover cooking requirements for virtually every type of griller and their possible needs. They offer several freestanding options between 575 and 1,300 square inches (with the lone outlier being a monstrous 2,535-square inch recteq pellet grill), so you will have no trouble finding a grill to accommodate you. Even better, both brands do everyone a huge solid by putting the total (or approximate) square inches of cooking space in each grill’s name!

Pellet hoppers from recteq can hold between 30 and 53 lb of pellets, whereas Traeger pellet hoppers have fuel capacities between 18 and 24 lb. Though Traeger's hold fewer pellets at a time, they’re all equipped with a fuel cleanout system for swapping flavors or emptying the hopper between cooks (which is necessary if you live in a high-humidity area.) Not only that, but Traeger Ironwood and Timberline grills also have a built-in pellet sensor to help you monitor fuel levels at all times. Those quality-of-life features go a long way toward smooth fuel maintenance, which will already be more difficult with larger hoppers like those from recteq. Besides, Traeger’s 18–24-lb hoppers will usually see you through an all-day or overnight smoke when full anyway.

Let’s start with recteq’s most notable feature: their PID Smart Grill Technology, a controlled mechanism that regulates temperature no matter the variables at play. With it, you can have industrial-level precision. This technology is a favorite of commercial bakeries, breweries, and pharmaceutical companies, providing consistent results right in your backyard. For their part, Traeger offers several built-in features to make your outdoor cooking experience easier. That includes a pellet sensor, both wired and wireless thermometers (depending on the grill model), and more traditional features like a grease and ash management system. Either way you go, both brands provide innovative features that make cooking fun and far more predictable.

Both recteq and Traeger deal mostly in freestanding pellet grills, making mobility around the backyard a huge factor for both use and storage. Traeger has a meaningful edge here with all-terrain, heavy-duty locking caster wheels across its 3 main series, making it easier for backyard chefs to maneuver and secure the grill where needed. On the other hand, recteq pellet grills feature rollerblade-style rubber wheels that can be locked once the unit is in place. Each brand also offers portable grill options with foldable legs for grilling on the go, should you be interested in taking your sizzle beyond the backyard.

When it comes to digital connectivity, both brands excel with respective apps that offer users a world of flavor at their fingertips. While recteq proudly boasts theirs is the #1 Rated Grilling App, Traeger’s app also includes access to over 1,000 wood-fired recipes and educational content, in addition to their WiFIRE® connection that allows customers to check on their food, adjust temperatures, and set alerts. As mentioned as part of their built-in features, the recteq app provides precise temperature control, thanks to their PID Smart Grill Technology. Ultimately, both brands offer an impressive app that makes cooking on their pellet grills more efficient and effective.

Depending on which models you’re comparing, Traeger or recteq may have the better warranty. Helpful, right? Here’s what we can tell you for sure: all Traegers carry a 3-year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. As for recteq pellet grills, they come with “horn-to-hoof” warranties of 2, 4, or 6 years. Longer warranties are obviously more desirable, but it’s still important to make sure the grill itself checks all your other boxes.