Traeger invented the pellet grill and remains one of the most popular brands for wood pellet grills and smokers. With several grill lines to choose from, it can be hard to decide between models like the Pro Series and the higher-end Timberline.
This guide examines key differences between the Pro and Timberline and looks at the advantages and disadvantages of each to help you choose the right Traeger pellet grill for you.
Head-to-Head Comparison Table
Now that we’ve looked at the overall specs and benefits of the Pro Series and Timberline, here is a direct side-by-side comparison of key differences:
| Feature | Traeger Pro Series | Traeger Timberline Series |
| Cooking Area | 575 to 780 sq inches | 850 to 1300 sq inches |
| Grill Interior | Porcelain enameled steel | Stainless steel |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 500°F | 165°F to 500°F |
| Cold Smoke Capable | No | Yes, with Super Smoke mode |
| Construction | Double-walled steel | Double-walled stainless steel |
| Insulation | Basic | Enhanced fully-insulated |
| Grill Grates | Porcelain coated steel | Stainless steel |
| Precision Temperature Control | D2 Direct Drive | WiFIRE + TRU Convection |
| Pellet Sensor | No | Yes |
| Grease Management | Bucket | Easy-access sloped tray |
| Price | $$ | $$$ |
As you can see, the Timberline wins out in terms of higher-end construction, extra cooking flexibility like cold smoking, enhanced heat and smoke distribution, and smart tech additions. However, you’ll pay around a $400 to $800 premium for these features compared to an equivalent sized Pro grill.
Overview of Traeger Pro Series Grills
The Traeger Pro Series is the brand’s mid-level line of pellet grills. It sits below the high-end Timberline series and above the entry-level Tailgater models. Pro grills feature Traeger’s signature ease of use along with upgraded construction and extra features compared to the Tailgater.
Key features of the Pro Series include:
- 636 to 780 square inches of cooking space – The Pro 575 model offers 636 square inches, while the larger Pro 780 has 780 square inches. This provides ample space to grill 20 burgers or 6 racks of ribs.
- D2 Direct Drive – The D2 drivetrain uses an all-steel auger and high-torque motor for precision temperature control and smooth pellet feeding. No jams or burnbacks.
- Downdraft Exhaust – A patented downdraft exhaust system pulls heat and smoke down across food for better convection cooking. Keeps smoke in rather than letting it billow out.
- WiFire Technology – With built-in WiFi and the Traeger app you can monitor and control the grill remotely using your smart device.
- Versatile Cooking Options – From smoking and grilling low and slow to searing burgers or veggies at high heat, Pro pellet grills are true “all-in-one” outdoor ovens.
- Stainless Steel Construction – The Pro features 304 stainless steel construction on all key parts like the grill body, lid, and control panel for durability.
Overall, the Pro Series from Traeger provides a great balance of practical cooking space, advanced pellet grill technology and smart features, and quality construction. You’ll have the ability to precisely control smoking from 180°F to 500°F and the versatility to grill, bake, roast, braise, or BBQ.
Overview of Traeger Timberline Grills
The Timberline represents the top tier of Traeger pellet grills. It builds on the Pro Series with upgrades to materials, cooking capabilities, and tech features.
Key advantages and features of the Timberline line include:
- 850 to 1300 sq in capacity – The Timberline grills come in 850 and 1300 square inch cooking area options, giving you huge capacity for big cookouts.
- Downdraft Exhaust + TRU Convection – In addition to Traeger’s downdraft exhaust, Timberlines have TRU Convection using a rear convection fan to circulate air and smoke for even cooking.
- Stainless Steel Interior – The entire grill interior is commercial-grade stainless steel from the firepot to the grill grates. More durable and easy to clean.
- Super Smoke Mode – Super Smoke unlocks extra smoke flavor at low temperatures of 165F to 200F through a variable speed fan that stokes the fire. Perfect for cold smoking items like cheese or nuts.
- WiFIRE Technology – The Timberline has the latest WiFIRE controller with adaptive control algorithms for precision temperature management from 165F up to 500F. Monitor and adjust as needed from your phone.
- Pellet Sensor – An automatic pellet sensor alerts you when the hopper is low so you never run out of fuel mid-cook.
- Insulated Construction – The double-walled stainless steel keeps more heat in the cook chamber. The Timberline can better hold its temperature in cold weather.
In summary, the Timberline line represents Traeger’s most versatile, high-tech, and precise pellet grills. The extra cooking space, convection airflow, Super Smoke mode, WiFIRE smart controller, and sturdy build quality let you smoke, grill, or bbq year-round with delicious results.
Traeger Pro Grill Models
Within the Pro Series line, there are two main grill models:
Traeger Pro 575
- 636 sq. inches of grill space
- Best for 1-4 people
- Compact size, ideal for small patios
- Porcelain grill grates
- D2 drivetrain
- Downdraft exhaust
- WiFire controller
- 16lb pellet hopper
Traeger Pro 780
- 780 sq. inches of space
- Ideal for 4-7 people
- Larger grill size and hopper capacity
- Stainless steel grill grates
- D2 Direct Drive
- Downdraft exhaust
- WiFire + TurboTemp
- 18lb pellet hopper
The Pro 780 model steps up in cooking space and a few extra features while still keeping that mid-tier pricing. It strikes a great balance for most home grillers that want ample capacity at a reasonable price but don’t necessarily need top-of-the-line upgrades.
Timberline Grill Models
The Timberline spans 850 and 1300 square inches capacities over two main grill models:
Traeger Timberline 850
- 850 sq. inches of grill space
- Enough room for 8+ people
- Stainless steel interior
- TRU Convection
- Super Smoke mode
- WiFire controller w/ pellet sensor
- Easy-access grease tray
- 21lb pellet hopper
Traeger Timberline 1300
- Massive 1300 sq inch capacity
- Grill for the biggest gatherings
- TRU Convection technology
- Super Smoke mode unlocks max flavor
- WiFire + pellet sensor
- Double side shelves for storage space
- Stainless steel build
- 21lb pellet hopper
For most families, the Timberline 850 model hits the sweet spot of having plenty of space while still fitting comfortably on a patio or deck. Stepping up to the larger 1300 square inch model is great for those really big cookouts but may feel overly bulky if you don’t routinely host huge groups.
Key Factor Comparison
Let’s take a closer look at some of the critical factors that differentiate the Pro and Timberline lines.
Construction Quality
The Timberline clearly wins when it comes to heavy-duty construction:
- Entire interior is commercial-grade stainless steel
- Double-walled stainless exterior vs painted steel
- Thick insulation for heat/cold retention
This gives the Timberline much better durability and weather resistance than the Pro models. You’ll have more even heating and ability to cook in cold temps.
Temperature Range
While both grills go up to 500°F for full grill capabilities, the Timberline Series adds extra flexibility on the low end:
- Timberline goes down to 165°F (with Super Smoke)
- Pro Series minimum temp is 180°F
Being able to hold temps as low as 165°F lets you cold smoke items like cheese, nuts, or salmon to impart ultra-rich flavor without actually cooking the food. It opens up more gourmet smoking possibilities.
Smoke Flavor
Traeger Timberlines have two advantages when it comes to maximizing smoke flavor:
- Super Smoke mode for extra smoky flavor at low temps when smoking is most effective
- TRU Convection circulates smoke and heat evenly around food
You can get excellent smoke flavor from a Pro Series grill. But the Timberline takes it to the next level.
Precision Temperature Management
Both grills utilize Traeger’s D2 Direct Drive for precise pellet feeding. However, the Timberline wins again here through advanced controllers:
- WiFIRE controller with algorithms that auto-adjust based on conditions
- Pellet sensor alerts you if hopper runs low to prevent flameouts
You get more reliability and control over your cooks, with fewer spikes or drops. The Timberline helps guarantee perfect low and slow smoking temps.
Ease of Use
Timberlines add a few extras that make using the grill a little easier:
- Pellet sensor so you don’t have to manually check if hopper is low
- Easy-access grease tray vs standard bucket
- Large shelves on 1300 model for prep space and storage
Realistically though, both grills are very easy to use. Traeger perfected simple pellet grilling operation over decades. You’ll ace making amazing food on either line.
Cost
Here’s a look at retail prices between comparable Traeger Pro vs Timberline models:
- Pro 575: $799
- Timberline 850: $1,799
- Pro 780: $999
- Timberline 1300: $2,000
As you can see, the Timberline commands nearly a $1,000 premium over a similar sized Pro.
You’re paying for those stainless steel upgrades, extra cooking versatility, and premium construction.
For many grillers, that sort of price jump may not make fiscal sense.
The Pro Series offers excellent performance and quality at a more budget-friendly price point. You need to decide if those extra Timberline features are worth the splurge for you.
Traeger Pro Or Timberline: Which Is Better For You?
So when all is said and done, which Traeger pellet grill line is right for your needs and budget? Here are some key factors to consider:
Grill for large gatherings – Timberline
If you routinely cook for big groups of 10+ people, then the extra capacity of the 1300 Timberline is hard to beat. It provides tons of grilling surface to handle a crowd.
Want maximum smoke flavor – Timberline
The Super Smoke mode and TRU Convection gives Timberlines an edge for infusing your barbecue with intense, smoky goodness.
Cook in cold weather – Timberline
Thanks to its insulated stainless steel build, the Timberline retains heat better in cold outside temps. The Pro Series can struggle to hold steady temps below 40°F.
Budget is a concern – Pro Series
You can save $400 to $800+ by opting for a Pro grill rather than a comparable Timberline model. The Pro gives you 95% of the performance at a fraction of the cost.
Don’t need large capacity – Pro Series
If you’re only cooking for 2-4 people, the smaller Pro 575 model provides ample 636 square inches of grilling space at a nice compact size.
Want Traeger quality at lower cost – Pro Series
The Pro Series sacrifices some bells and whistles found on the Timberline but retains that core Traeger durability and cooking experience. An excellent value buy.
As you can see, there’s compelling cases to be made for either the Pro or Timberline line depending on your needs and budget. You can feel confident that both offer outstanding performance and quality – the Timberline just takes it to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Ironwood series sits between the Pro and Timberline lines in Traeger’s lineup. It offers a few notable upgrades over the Pro:
1. WiFIRE controller with Down Draft exhaust
2. TRU Convection technology
3. Super Smoke mode for enhanced smoke flavor
4. Stainless steel grill grates
5. Insulated double-walled construction
So the Ironwood gives you excellent insulation and smoke production like the Timberline. However, the grill interior is still porcelain-coated steel rather than stainless. And you don’t get the handy pellet sensor.
The Timberline series represents the pinnacle of Traeger’s pellet grill lineup. It’s their highest quality and most technologically advanced grill. If you want the very best Traeger has to offer, the Timberline 1300 model takes the crown.
Yes, Super Smoke mode is one of the signature features of the Timberline grill series. It allows you to tap into extra smoke production at low temperatures between 165°F to 200°F. This adds rich smoky flavor when cold smoking items like cheese.
Definitely. The Timberline’s Super Smoke feature lets you safely cold smoke at temps as low as 165°F. This allows cold smoking of foods like cheese, nuts, or salmon without actually cooking them. You just impart smokey flavor.
The Pro Series lacks Super Smoke mode, so it can’t properly cold smoke under 180°F. Cold smoking requires the Timberline.
The Bottom Line
Traeger Pro and Timberline pellet grills represent two of the brand’s finest models. You can’t go wrong with either. The Pro provides incredible versatility and quality at a reasonable price point. Stepping up to the Timberline buys you elite construction, cold smoke abilities, and large capacities.
Think about your budget, typical cooking loads, and desired features. Use this guide to make the right choice between Pro vs Timberline for crafting mouthwatering smoked barbecue masterpieces.