Imagine a smoker that skips the fuss of fire management yet keeps wood flavor alive. The Traeger Grill Pro 22 offers 572 sq in cooking space, a Digital Pro Controller, and tough build. No Wi‑Fi, no frills—just reliable performance
Our Top Pick
Design, Build & Cooking Capacity
Inside you get two porcelain‑coated racks: 418 sq in main and 154 sq in top. That handles roughly 24 burgers or 4 whole chickens. This is smoker territory—not a sear beast. The body is powder‑coated steel. Wheels and legs make patio movement easy.
Temperature Controller & Hopper
Turn the dial from 180–400 °F in 25‑degree steps. Expect swings up to around ±15 °F. The 18‑lb hopper empties via tail door. No smartphone control. Just reliable tactile adjustments.
Heat‑Up & Smoke Quality
It heats steadily, reaching mid‑400s. That isn’t sear‑hot, but ideal for low‑and‑slow cooks. Smoke from 180–225 °F gives a clear smoke ring and mild wood flavor. Pellet combustion stays consistent.
Cooking Performance
Ribs come out tender. Whole chickens have crispy skin and juicy insides. Burgers turn out well, but miss a char‑crust. It’s built for smoky comfort food, not flash grilling.
Ease of Use & Maintenance
Simple dial and display—no app needed. Clean‑out hopper and drip‑bucket liners reduce mess. No ash pan means deeper drum cleaning now and then. Many users call it beginner‑friendly.
Mobility & Ergonomics
At around 103 lb, it’s big but moveable. Wheels handle grass or paving. Side‑lift bar helps when tilting. Lid handle stays cool. No side prep shelf—but that’s an easy aftermarket fix.
Reliability & Longevity
This Gen 1 model is simple and durable. Owners report four years or more of reliable use with basic upkeep. Parts remain affordable and easy to find.
Comparison & Value
Later models—Pro 575, Ironwood, Timberline—add Wi‑Fi, PID, hotter temps. Those cost more. For budget-minded shoppers, Pro 22 often receives deep discounts as well. Still big bang for buck if you don’t mind missing smart features.
Alternatives: Weber Searwood and Camp Chef Woodwind offer better sear and optional connectivity—but usually cost more.
Ideal Users & Use Cases
Great for backyard BBQ lovers, rookie pitmasters, and anyone wanting authentic wood smoke minus constant babysitting. Weekend rib slayers and family dinner hosts will appreciate its simplicity. If you grill nightly or demand sear perfection, this might feel heavy.
Traeger Grills Pro 22 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker
Mid-sized wood-pellet grill and smoker with 572 sq in cooking surface, Digital Pro control, and hearty hardwood taste.
Conclusion
The Traeger Pro 22 remains a powerhouse with honest flavor and serious output. It’s simple and reliable. It skips modern luxuries like app control and precise heat. But if you prize dependable cooking, a well-built box, and big smoke flavor—it still holds weight today. A true grill legend worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can it sear like gas or charcoal?
Not really. Tops in the low‑and‑slow club, but high‑heat sear parties are better suited to other grills.
How steady is the temperature?
Expect control within ±15 °F. Fans of airtight heat may notice swings.
What pellets are best?
Choose hardwood blends—hickory, apple, maple—for richer smoke. Skip filler-laden brands.
How often should I clean it?
Wipe grates after each cook. Clean hopper and bucket monthly during heavy use. Ash cleanup every few cooks.
Gen 1 or newer model?
Go Gen 1 for reliability and price. Choose newer Pro models if you want Wi‑Fi or PID precision.
