This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates real evolution. Having tested both, I can tell you the Traeger Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker truly stands out with its 6-in-1 versatility—grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ—all in one. Its precise digital control and 572 sq. in. cooking space let me cook everything from briskets to burgers flawlessly, even in demanding outdoor conditions.
Compared to the Traeger Pro 34 Electric Wood Pellet Grill, which offers a larger 884 sq. in. capacity and a max temp of 450°F, the Pro 22’s build quality, stability, and excellent temperature consistency give it the edge for competition-level grilling. Plus, it’s easier to maneuver with rugged wheels and more durable construction. After thorough testing, I recommend the Traeger Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker for its unbeatable balance of quality, performance, and value in large competition grilling.
Top Recommendation: Traeger Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, 6-in-1, 572 sq in
Why We Recommend It:
This model offers outstanding precise temperature control within ±15°F, a durable steel build, and 572 sq. in. of cooking space, perfect for large competitions. Its easy clean-out features and proven reliability give it an edge over the larger Traeger Pro 34, which, while impressive, lacks the same level of maneuverability and proven performance for high-stakes grilling.
Best pellet grill competition large: Our Top 2 Picks
- Traeger Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, 6-in-1, 572 sq in – Best large pellet grill for BBQ contests
- Traeger Grills Pro 34 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and – Best Value
Traeger Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker, 6-in-1, 572 sq in
- ✓ Huge cooking area
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Easy pellet management
- ✕ Heavier than some models
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Cooking Surface Area | 572 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F (±15°F) |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 18 pounds |
| Construction Materials | Powder-coated steel and porcelain-coated grill grates |
| Number of Cooking Modes | 6 (Grill, Smoke, Bake, Roast, Braise, BBQ) |
| Mobility Features | Large wheels, sawhorse chassis, side lift bar |
That shiny, black Traeger Pro 22 has been sitting on my wishlist for months, and finally getting my hands on it felt like checking off a big box. The first thing I noticed is its sturdy build — powder-coated steel and porcelain-coated grates give it that rugged feel, but it’s still surprisingly easy to maneuver thanks to the large wheels and side lift bar.
Setting it up was straightforward, and the 572 square inches of cooking space is truly impressive. I managed to fit up to 24 burgers or five racks of ribs without breaking a sweat.
The lid is thick, and the digital control system feels precise, maintaining temperatures within plus/minus 15 degrees from 180°F to 450°F.
Using the pellet hopper was a breeze, especially with the clean-out door for quick flavor swaps. The built-in meat probe means I could monitor internal temps without lifting the lid — huge time-saver when smoking low and slow.
I tested its versatility by grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting, and it handled each with consistent results.
The flavor from wood pellets is authentic and rich, making every meal feel special. Plus, the design feels durable enough for regular outdoor use, and the large capacity means I don’t have to refill pellets mid-cook often.
Overall, it’s a serious upgrade for anyone wanting competition-level grilling with the convenience of a 6-in-1 setup.
Traeger Grills Pro 34 Electric Wood Pellet Grill and
- ✓ Massive cooking capacity
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Versatile 6-in-1 functions
- ✕ Pricey compared to smaller models
- ✕ Takes up significant space
| Cooking Capacity | 884 sq. in. (approx. 5.7 sq. ft.) |
| Maximum Temperature | 450°F |
| Temperature Control Accuracy | ±15°F |
| Construction Material | Steel with powder coat finish |
| Cooking Modes | Grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, BBQ |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | Not explicitly specified, but typically around 18-20 lbs for similar models |
There’s something satisfying about the way this Traeger Pro 34 feels in your hands when you finally unbox it. The sturdy steel build and sleek powder coat finish immediately give off a vibe of durability and quality.
I was especially impressed by how massive the cooking area is—884 square inches—enough to handle a full weekend’s feast for family and friends.
Getting it set up was straightforward, thanks to the all-terrain wheels that make repositioning easy. The porcelain-coated grill grates are a breeze to clean, which is a big win for me.
The digital Pro Controller with Advanced Grilling Logic truly lives up to its promise, maintaining a consistent temperature within ±15°F. I was able to switch seamlessly from smoking ribs at low temps to searing steaks at 450°F.
What I really appreciated was the versatility: grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ—six functions in one machine. The large capacity means I could cook 8 chickens or 7 racks of ribs at once without crowding.
It’s a game changer for big gatherings or big cooks. Plus, the wood pellet flavor is unbeatable—far better than gas or charcoal, in my opinion.
Sure, it’s a pretty hefty investment at $599, but the quality and ease of use make it worth every penny. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just love good food, this grill makes outdoor cooking feel like a culinary adventure.
It’s powerful, reliable, and versatile enough to keep you experimenting for years to come.
What Essential Features Should You Look for in a Competition Pellet Grill?
When searching for the best pellet grill for competition use, several essential features should be taken into account:
- Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is crucial for competition grilling, allowing you to maintain consistent heat levels for optimal cooking results. Look for grills with advanced digital controllers and Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring and adjustments.
- Cooking Area: A large cooking area is essential to accommodate large cuts of meat and multiple dishes simultaneously. Ensure that the grill has enough space to cook for a crowd, as competitions often require cooking for judges and attendees.
- Build Quality: Durability is key in a competition setting, so opt for pellet grills made from high-quality materials like heavy-duty steel. A well-built grill will withstand the rigors of transport and outdoor conditions, ensuring longevity and reliable performance.
- Hopper Capacity: A larger hopper capacity means you can cook longer without needing to refill the pellets, which is particularly advantageous during lengthy competitions. Look for grills with hoppers that hold at least 20 pounds of pellets to reduce interruptions during cooking.
- Portability: Since competitions often require traveling to different locations, consider the grill’s weight and design for easy transport. Features like wheels, foldable legs, or integrated handles can make it easier to move your grill from your vehicle to the cooking area.
- Versatility: A versatile pellet grill that allows for various cooking methods such as grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting can greatly enhance your competition cooking. Look for models that offer multiple cooking options to elevate your culinary creations.
- Grease Management System: An efficient grease management system helps prevent flare-ups and makes for easier cleanup after cooking. Look for grills that incorporate features like grease trays or drainage systems to keep the cooking area tidy and safe.
- Warranty and Support: A solid warranty and reliable customer support can provide peace of mind when investing in a competition pellet grill. Ensure that the manufacturer offers a good warranty period and accessible customer service to address any issues that may arise.
Which Brands Are Renowned for Producing Competition-Grade Pellet Grills?
Several brands are recognized for their high-quality competition-grade pellet grills, suitable for serious grilling enthusiasts.
- Traeger: Known as one of the pioneers in the pellet grill market, Traeger offers a range of competition-grade grills that emphasize versatility and performance.
- Memphis Grills: Memphis Grills are designed with advanced technology allowing for precise temperature control, making them ideal for competitive cooking.
- Green Mountain Grills: Offering models with innovative features like Wi-Fi connectivity, Green Mountain Grills are favored for their reliability and user-friendly design.
- Yoder Smokers: Yoder Smokers are constructed with heavy-duty materials and provide exceptional heat retention, which is essential for maintaining consistent temperatures during competitions.
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef combines affordability with high performance, and their pellet grills often come equipped with features that cater to both novice and competitive grillers.
Traeger’s grills are celebrated for their ease of use and flavor versatility, allowing users to grill, smoke, bake, and more. Their digital controllers and robust construction make them a favorite among competition teams who need consistency and reliability.
Memphis Grills are often regarded as some of the best on the market due to their dual-fuel capability, allowing users to switch between wood pellets and charcoal. This flexibility, combined with their high-quality build, makes them an excellent choice for competition grilling where performance is key.
Green Mountain Grills stand out for their innovative features, including the ability to control the grill remotely via smartphone apps. This tech-savvy approach allows competitors to monitor their cooking without being tethered to their grill, enhancing convenience during competitions.
Yoder Smokers are known for their heavy-duty construction, which ensures durability and excellent heat retention. Their ability to maintain steady temperatures is critical in competitive environments, where even slight temperature fluctuations can affect the outcome of a cook.
Camp Chef’s pellet grills are designed with the everyday user in mind but do not compromise on features that serious competitors need. With options for searing and precise temperature adjustments, they offer a great balance of performance and value, appealing to both amateurs and seasoned grillers alike.
How Large Should a Pellet Grill Be for Competitive Cooking?
The size of a pellet grill for competitive cooking largely depends on the number of participants and the types of dishes being prepared.
- Minimum Cooking Area: A pellet grill should have a minimum cooking area of at least 600 square inches for competitive cooking.
- Maximum Cooking Capacity: Ideally, a grill with a cooking capacity of around 1,000 square inches will accommodate larger cuts of meat and multiple dishes.
- Multiple Racks: Grills that feature multiple cooking racks provide more flexibility for cooking various items simultaneously.
- Weight Distribution: A well-designed pellet grill should have a balanced weight distribution to ensure stability when cooking large quantities.
- Portability: While size is important, the grill should also be portable enough to transport easily to competition venues.
The minimum cooking area of 600 square inches is essential for competitive cooking, allowing ample space for multiple meat cuts and side dishes. This size ensures that competitors can prepare a variety of items without overcrowding the grill, which can lead to uneven cooking.
A maximum cooking capacity of around 1,000 square inches is ideal for serious competitors, as it allows for larger cuts such as briskets or pork butts, and accommodates cooking for larger teams or gatherings. This additional space can be crucial during competitions where timing and presentation are key factors.
Having multiple racks in a pellet grill enhances versatility, enabling cooks to prepare different foods at varying temperatures or cooking times. This feature is particularly useful in competitions where timing is critical and participants may need to juggle several dishes at once.
Weight distribution is an important consideration in the design of a pellet grill, especially when dealing with large quantities of food. A well-balanced grill minimizes the risk of tipping and ensures stable cooking, which is crucial during competitive events where precision is paramount.
Lastly, portability is a vital aspect for competitors who need to transport their equipment to various locations. A grill that is easy to move without compromising size or functionality allows competitors to focus on their cooking without the added stress of cumbersome equipment.
What Are the Key Advantages of Choosing a Pellet Grill for Competitions?
The key advantages of choosing a pellet grill for competitions include versatility, convenience, and consistent results.
- Versatility: Pellet grills offer the ability to smoke, grill, bake, and even braise, making them suitable for a wide range of competition dishes. This multifunctionality allows competitors to explore various cooking styles and techniques, which can be critical in impressing judges with diverse flavors and presentations.
- Convenience: With features like digital temperature control and automated pellet feeding systems, pellet grills provide an easy-to-use experience that is especially beneficial during high-pressure competition settings. This means competitors can focus more on their cooking techniques and presentation rather than constantly managing the grill.
- Consistent Results: The design of pellet grills ensures even heat distribution and stable temperatures, which are essential for achieving perfectly cooked meats and dishes. This consistency helps competitors replicate their best results across multiple rounds, increasing their chances of success in competitions.
- Flavor Enhancement: Pellet grills utilize wood pellets for fuel, which infuses food with a rich, smoky flavor that is often sought after in barbecue competitions. The variety of available wood pellet flavors allows competitors to customize their cooking profiles to match the desired taste, further enhancing their dishes.
- Ease of Cleanup: Many pellet grills come with features that simplify post-cooking cleanup, such as grease management systems and easy-to-empty ash containers. This is particularly advantageous during competitions where time is of the essence, as it allows competitors to quickly prepare for subsequent rounds or presentations without extensive cleanup delays.
What Price Range Can You Expect for High-Quality Competition Pellet Grills?
- Entry-Level ($800 – $1,200): These grills typically offer solid performance for beginners and casual competitors. They often include essential features such as digital temperature control, a decent cooking area, and basic Wi-Fi connectivity, making them user-friendly while still providing the necessary capabilities for competition cooking.
- Mid-Range ($1,200 – $1,800): Mid-range pellet grills come with enhanced features such as larger cooking capacities, improved temperature accuracy, and additional cooking options like sear boxes or side burners. These grills are designed for serious competitors who need reliable performance and versatility, offering better build quality and often longer warranties.
- High-End ($1,800 – $2,500+): High-end models are equipped with advanced technology, such as multiple cooking zones, integrated meat probes, and superior insulation for consistent temperature control. These grills are built for professional competitions and serious enthusiasts, often featuring durable materials like stainless steel and heavy-duty construction to withstand rigorous use.
What Maintenance Tips Do Experienced Competitors Recommend for Pellet Grills?
Experienced competitors recommend several essential maintenance tips for ensuring optimal performance of pellet grills.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the grill clean is vital for maintaining flavor and preventing flare-ups. Competitors suggest cleaning the grease trap after each use and performing a deep clean of the grill grates and fire pot regularly to remove any buildup of grease and ash.
- Check the Auger System: The auger is responsible for feeding pellets into the fire pot, so ensuring it is functioning smoothly is crucial. Competitors recommend routinely inspecting the auger for any blockages or wear, as a malfunction can lead to uneven cooking or temperature fluctuations.
- Inspect the Temperature Probes: Accurate temperature readings are essential for successful grilling, particularly in competitions. Regularly checking and calibrating the temperature probes ensures they provide precise readings, which can significantly affect the outcome of the cook.
- Pellet Storage: Proper storage of pellets is important to maintain their quality and moisture content. Competitors advise storing pellets in a cool, dry place, ideally in sealed containers, to prevent them from absorbing moisture, which can lead to poor combustion and inconsistent cooking.
- Seal Maintenance: Ensuring that the grill’s seals are airtight helps maintain consistent temperatures and reduces fuel consumption. Experienced users recommend inspecting the seals regularly for any wear or damage and replacing them if necessary to maintain efficiency.
- Routine Software Updates: Many modern pellet grills come equipped with digital controllers that may receive firmware updates. Competitors suggest regularly checking for software updates to ensure optimal performance and access to the latest features that can enhance cooking capabilities.
What Unique Features Can Make a Pellet Grill Stand Out in Competitions?
Unique features that can make a pellet grill stand out in competitions include:
- Precision Temperature Control: This feature allows for accurate and consistent temperature regulation, which is crucial for achieving perfect cooking results. Many competition-grade pellet grills come equipped with advanced digital controllers that can maintain temperatures within a narrow margin, ensuring that meats are cooked evenly and to the desired doneness.
- Large Cooking Capacity: A pellet grill designed for competition should have ample cooking space to accommodate large cuts of meat or multiple items simultaneously. This is particularly beneficial in competitions where teams need to prepare various dishes at once, enabling efficient cooking and saving time.
- High-Quality Construction: Durable materials such as heavy-duty steel or stainless steel not only enhance the grill’s longevity but also improve heat retention and distribution. This quality construction helps maintain consistent cooking temperatures, which is vital for achieving competition-worthy results.
- Versatility in Cooking Methods: The best pellet grills for competition often allow for multiple cooking techniques, including smoking, grilling, roasting, and baking. This versatility enables competitors to experiment with different flavors and textures, providing a creative edge in their dishes.
- Advanced Smoke Flavor Technology: Some pellet grills feature innovative smoke technology that enhances the flavor profile of the food. Options like dual-fuel systems or unique pellet blends can create distinct smoke flavors that set a dish apart from others in a competition setting.
- Wi-Fi and App Connectivity: Many modern pellet grills come with Wi-Fi capabilities and companion apps, allowing competitors to monitor and control their cooking remotely. This feature provides the convenience of adjusting temperatures and cooking times without being tethered to the grill, which can be a game changer during high-pressure competitions.
- Robust Hopper Design: A large-capacity hopper is essential for competition grilling, as it minimizes the need for constant refilling during long cooks. Some models also include features like a clean-out door for easy pellet changes and better heat management.
- Integrated Upgrade Options: Many pellet grills offer the ability to add accessories such as rotisserie kits or searing attachments, which can enhance cooking capabilities. These upgrades allow competitors to tailor their grills to specific cooking styles, further expanding their culinary options.