Traeger’s Redesigned Timberline Grill Series Looks Like a Gamechanger
Updated: Dec. 13, 2022
They're not cheap, but the convenience, versatility and consistency of the Traeger Timberline grills could be worth the investment.
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Traeger grills have been popular pellet-fueled options for years, combining the slow cooking and signature flavor of a smoker with high enough heat to grill burgers and more. The newest models in their Timberline series build nicely on that foundation with innovations to improve maintenance and use.
The nearly $4,000 price tag might be a dealbreaker. But if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line pellet grill and price is no object, a new Traeger Timberline grill could be the crown jewel of your backyard cooking setup.
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What Is a Traeger Timberline Grill?
The new Traeger Timberline pellet grills are upgraded versions of the Timberline 850 and 1300 models. Both are exactly the type of durable combo grill/smoker units with precise temperature controls that devotees have come to expect from Traeger.
These models offer an impressive amount of new features, bumping the prices of the 850 and 1300 by $1,400 and $1,500, respectively. Sure, other pellet grills are cheaper and work just fine. But in the end, they can’t provide the luxurious combination of precision, customization and high-tech perks as a Traeger Timberline grill. If you’re not a winter griller, here’s how to store your pellet grill or smoker so it’s ready in spring.
Key among the upgrades:
Improved connectivity and technology
Traeger’s WiFire technology lets you control and monitor the grill via the Traeger app. But the new models feature two wireless meat probes that send phone alerts when your meat reaches a certain temperature. Use both if you’re cooking for a group with varied doneness preferences.
The app lets you auto-adjust temperature, too, like cooking at 250 F for an hour, then cranking it up to 400 F. That means less time tending the grill and more time to prep sides or socialize. Bonus: The touchscreen control panel display, formerly black and white, is now color.
A side burner
Since pellet grills produce ambient heat like a convection oven, it’s impossible to sear your meat — arguably their main drawback. Enter the Timberline’s electric side burner. It provides direct heat needed to sear steaks on a grill pan, boil a potful of corn on the cob or sauté sides while your meat cooks. It’s only available on the upgraded Timberline models — no doubt a big reason for the price increase.
Built-in lights
Both new Timberline grills feature built-in lights so you can easily see what you’re cooking — no more breaking out your cell phone or a flashlight to monitor your food. The lights come on automatically when you open the grill lid.
Customizable storage
A integrated rail system on the front and sides of the grill cart permits additional shelving to hold large serving dishes, storage bins for condiments and seasonings, and convenient hanging hooks to keep tongs, spatulas and other grilling accessories at the ready.
New Traeger Timberline Grills
The new models come with all the above advancements plus other cool features.
Traeger Timberline
The most obvious improvement is the frame, now a cart-style unit with rolling casters instead of four stationary legs. The new design shifted pellet cleanup chute access from the rear to the front, making it more convenient to empty and freeing up storage space.
The 500 F maximum temperature can handle most cooking needs, and the 22-lb. pellet capacity buys you plenty of time between refills. With 880 sq. in. of cooking space, this is the smaller of the new models. But unless you’re grilling for large groups all the time, this should meet your needs. Price: $3,500.
Traeger Timberline XL
At 1,320 sq. in., Traeger’s wider XL model provides one-third more cooking space than the less expensive model. According to Traeger, this one can accommodate 12 chickens, 16 rib racks or a 12 pork butts at once.
The XL’s max temp and hopper capacity matches the smaller model — 500 degrees and 22 lbs. The XL might be overkill for many. But if you’re frequently smoking large amounts of meat or hosting big parties, the extra space might be worth the extra costs. Price: $3,800.
Where To Buy Them
Purchase both new Timberline models from Traeger directly or at online retailers like The Home Depot, Ace Hardware, and BBQGuys.com. If you prefer a hands-on look before you buy, use Traeger’s online dealer locator to find one near you.
