If you’re reading this article, it’s likely that you’ve finally made up your mind about replacing your traditional grilling appliances with a pellet grill. Even more likely is that you’re struggling to decide whether to get a pellet grill by Cabela’s or Traeger.
Stop worrying and start taking notes! Because this detailed Cabela’s Pellet Grill vs Traeger Pellet Grill review reveals all the important things that will help you decide which pellet grill is the best for you.
What To Look For in a Pellet Grill?
Pellet grills have garnered a reputation because of their exceptionally tasty results and ease of use. Their indirect heat delivery system allows you to experiment with your meal in a safe manner.
Before we delve into the differences and similarities between pellet grills by Cabela’s and Traeger, we think it’s essential for you to know what to look for in a good pellet grill.
· Has Ample Cooking Area
For larger families, a primary surface of 350-800 sq. inches should be enough. Pellet grills come in different sizes. Larger sizes include 500-700 sq. inch of primary cooking area while the smaller pellet grills usually feature a primary cooking area of 450 sq. inch. An upper rack of 100-150 sq. feet makes the smaller grills not so different from larger variants.
· Range of Temperature Controls
One of the things that make pellet grills different from any conventional grills is their temperature control mechanism. It is in fact, the main component. Pellet grills come with different types of controllers: multi-position, 3-position, and PID controls. Good pellet grills ideally have controls that offer temperature control between 180 Fahrenheit 425 Fahrenheit.
· Should Be Well-Constructed
This aspect is perhaps the most important to consider. The best pellet grills are made of painted steel that is covered in a high-quality powder coat. This coat enables them to survive high levels of heat. Some of the best pellet grills are made of stainless steel that offers greater durability, convenience, and resistance to rust.
· Selling Price
Pellet grills range from under $500 to over $1000. We understand that price range is a significant factor. But be vigilant and don’t confuse cheap for affordable. Compare costs with the quality of the product before reaching a decision. An affordable good quality pellet grill is better than a cheap low-quality one.
· Additional Features
With so many options on the market, additional features guide you to differentiate between different brands. Look out for any innovative technology or advanced abilities that are incorporated in the pellet grill.
Cabela vs Traeger: 5 Ways in Which They Differ
Now that you know what characteristics and features to look for in a good pellet grill, we are assuming that you’re already prioritizing what you exactly want. Here is a comparison between Cabela’s Pellet Grill vs Traeger in terms of several aspects making easier for you to choose a winner.
1. Cost
Traeger has long established itself as a brand that sells quality products at affordable prices. And it lives up to its claim when it comes to pellet grills as well. Traeger pellet grill is one of the more affordable options in the market. So much so that even their most expensive models are less pricey than the cheapest pellet grills cost by other brands.
Cabela’s pellet grills, on the other hand, are known to be costly for several reasons. Firstly, their initial purchase price is too much. More on, they have often been reviewed to not last long. This incurs even more expenses because of all the additional maintenance charges. So if you have budget constraints, we would not recommend you to go for it.
In simpler terms, between these two brands, the Traeger pellet grill is the more affordable and durable one.
2. Quality & Design
Cabela’s pellet grills consist of porcelain-coated cooking racks. These racks are removable and adjustable which gives you enough choice to place a rack or not. Overall, the assembly of these grills is also very easy and convenient.
These are one of the few grills that give an option for indirect roasting as well as open flame roasting. In fact, it has a distinct space that caters only to open flame roasting. This allows you to switch from one mode of roasting to another whenever you want.
Despite all of these striking features, Cabela’s pellet grills are not worth the price they come at. The unfavorable chimney design of the grill allows plenty of smoke and heat to flow out of the top. Also, buyers seem to be unsatisfied with the auger placed in the grill and complain that the grill structure is very fragile.
There is a reason that Traeger is recognized as a leading brand name in the industry. Despite its low prices, it has never compromised on quality. Every passing year, Traeger has managed to introduce a new feature that facilitates its consumers. With pellets that are fireproof and improved insulation, they are not only safe to use but also durable. Even though its quality does not equal that of luxury brands such as Yoder, we still believe that Traeger pellet grills are too good for the price they come at.
Keep in mind that neither Cabela’s nor Traeger pellet grills are great with temperature variations. But if you’re a beginner, these are good enough to practice your grilling skills on.
3. Maintenance & Warranty
Maintenance is generally an issue with all pellet grills. With pellets made of iron, rusting is a problem you’re bound to face. However, this problem is experienced more in Cabela’s pellet grill than Traeger.
Grease can also cause problems if grills are not wiped regularly. Cabela’s pellet grill has a vacuum ash clean-out mechanism that makes it easier for you to wrap up the grill when you’re done cooking.
Traeger offers a 3-year warranty for its pellet grills against any defects in their products under normal use and maintenance. Cabela’s warranty policy is not so clear but its pellet grills are assumed to have 1-year warranty.
4. Availability
Both the pellet grills are easy to find online. However, you are likely to stumble across Traeger pellet grills because they are available on multiple online sources, even Cabela’s website!
5. Mobility
Traeger makes a wide range or grill sizes that allow greater mobility. If you like road tripping, you can totally take this pellet grill along. Meanwhile, Cabela’s pellet grill comes with wheels that make its movement around a small radius easy. So it’s worth considering if you prefer grilling in your backyard.
Cabela’s vs Traeger Pellet Grills: Any Similarities?
Whether you get a Cebela’s pellet grill or Traeger, you will definitely end up will a uniquely crafted grill that is aesthetically pleasing. These extremely versatile pellet grills are easy to assemble and even easier to use.
And when it comes to the grill area, you won’t be disappointed by either of the brands! Cabela and Traeger have pellet grills that could cater large quantity of food at once. Hence, you no longer have to hold back your urge to organize big parties anymore.
Every Pellet Grill Model is Different!
Having made a general comparison between Cabela’s and Traeger pellet grills, we would like to mention that features vary between models. So while these brands may generally not be good for a particular aspect of functioning, there is still a possibility that at least one of their models caters to your needs.
To help you make an informed decision, we have listed the pros and cons for some of the widely known pellet grill models by Cabela’s and Traeger.
Cabela’s Pro Series 24″ Pellet Grill
Pros
- Pellet hopper has a large capacity
- It is easy to operate
- Wide cooking area
- A meat probe is included
- Big front window
- Unique design
- A separate station for open-flame grilling
Cons
- Not durable
- Quality is not worth its price
- Has a fragile control panel
Cabela’s Pro Series 36″ Pellet Grill
Pros
- It is easy to operate
- A large cooking space (1016 square-inch)
- A large storage box, or hopper
- Cooking rack is Porcelain-coated
- Two meat probes
- Advanced sear-station control
Cons
- Expensive
- Not durable
- Has a bad auger
Traeger Pro Series 575 Pellet Grill
Pros
- Newer models include Wi-Fi connectivity
- Different color options
- Circulates fresh smoke in the cooking chamber
- Custom cook controller settings
- Better insulation
- Option for searing
Cons
- Can’t cater to large groups
Traeger Ironwood Series 650 Pellet Grill
Pros
- Larger than normal sizes
- Can be controlled and monitored via phone
Cons
- Front shelf is not included (needs to be bought separately)
- A little costly
Traeger Ironwood Series 885 Pellet Grill
Pros
- Huge cooking capacity
- Monitors pellet consumption
- Removable grill grates
Cons
- Most expensive of all the Traeger models
- The heavyweight reduces its mobility
- New technical features can be inconsistent
Our Final Thoughts
Have you made up your mind and are already getting hold of your valet to finally buy a pellet grill? If yes, we want you to stop for just a few seconds.
Cabela’s Pellet Grill vs Traeger will never be complete without YOU! Prioritize what you really want in a pellet grill by recognizing what resonates with you. If you have a house full of kids, maybe choose Traeger because Cabela is too fragile. If you’re going for looks, then Cabela would be a great option!
