Pit Boss vs Traeger: Entry Pellet Grills Compared (2026)

Updated 2026-11-10 Researched, not tested in person

Quick answer

Buy the Pit Boss 500 FB2 if you want a flame broiler that sears up to 1,000F and a lower price. Buy the Traeger Pro 22 if you want a built-in meat probe, an 18 lb hopper and the Traeger controller and accessory range. Both are entry pellet grills; Pit Boss reaches 500F and Traeger 450F.

Best for searing and value

Pit Boss 500 FB2

Budget pellet grill

Check price on Amazon

Best for the Traeger name and probe

Traeger Pro 22

Mid-range pellet grill

Check price on Amazon

At a glance

	Pit Boss 500 FB2	Traeger Pro 22
Cooking area	518 sq in	572 sq in
Temperature range	180F to 500F	180F to 450F
Direct sear	Flame broiler lever, up to 1,000F	Indirect only
Controller	LCD digital, 5F increments	Digital Pro Controller
Meat probe	See listing	Built-in meat probe
Hopper	See listing	18 lb
WiFi	No	No

The table compares the Pit Boss 500 FB2 and the Traeger Pro 22 on cooking area, range, searing and controller. Details are from the Amazon listings; both are entry models without app control.

Pick the Pit Boss 500 FB2 if…

You want the flame broiler to sear steaks and burgers directly over flame, a higher 500F ceiling and a lower entry price.

Check Pit Boss 500 FB2 on Amazon

Pick the Traeger Pro 22 if…

You want the original pellet grill brand, a built-in probe and a big hopper, and plan to use Traeger pellets, covers and accessories.

Check Traeger Pro 22 on Amazon

Who should skip both

You want app control or an ultra-long unattended smoke. Step up to a WiFi model such as the Traeger Ironwood or a Weber Searwood.

Comparison researched from published manufacturer specifications, retailer listings and owner reviews. We have not tested these products side by side. Confirm current specifications and prices before buying. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

Frequently asked questions

Is Pit Boss as good as Traeger?

At the entry level both make good grills. Pit Boss gives more features per dollar, such as a flame broiler; Traeger has a stronger brand and accessory range.

Which pellet grill is better for beginners?

Either. Both hold set temperatures automatically. Pick on whether you want a flame broiler (Pit Boss) or a built-in probe (Traeger Pro 22).

Can I use any brand of pellets?

Both burn standard 100 percent hardwood pellets. Use dry pellets of food-grade quality; see our wood pellets guide.

Do these have WiFi?

Neither of these two models does. Look at the Traeger Ironwood 885 for WiFIRE or the Weber Searwood for WiFi and Bluetooth.

How we choose gear: we compare published manufacturer specifications, capacity and temperature ranges, materials, warranty terms and verified owner reviews. We do not test gear in person and we do not publish hands-on claims we cannot support.

Cook times and temperatures are researched guidance, not a food-safety authority. Every figure on this page is an estimate: smokers, ambient weather, humidity and the individual cut all move it. Food is safe when a calibrated instant-read thermometer says so, never when a clock or a chart does. Keep food out of the 40°F to 140°F danger zone, observe the 4 hour rule, and follow current USDA safe minimum internal temperatures. If you are cooking for anyone pregnant, very young, elderly or immunocompromised, cook to the USDA minimums rather than to a preference-based doneness temperature.