The Traeger Tailgater is a small, compact, portable pellet grill designed for those who enjoy cooking in outdoor spaces and want an easy-to-transport grill. However, there are numerous portable grills on the market. How does the Tailgater compare in terms of functionality and price point?

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Features:

• Lightweight: The Traeger Tailgater weighs 62 pounds and comes equipped with ez-fold legs.
• 300 square inches of cooking space: It can hold 2 racks of ribs, 2 whole chickens, or up to 12 burger patties.
• Digital Arc Controller: Maintains a consistent range of 180°F to 450°F.
• Versatility: Traeger promises versatile cooking capabilities: grill, bake, smoke, roast.
• Integrated Meat Probe: Allows you to monitor food temperature without ever having to open the lid.
• Pellet Hopper Capacity: 8 pounds, or holding for a few hours of cooking.

Pros:

• Its lightweight design makes it easy to transport, and fits well in tight spaces.
• This unit offers both grilling and smoking.
• The Digital Arc Controller promises stable temperature.
• Sturdy, despite its small size.

Cons:

• It’s small. The Traeger Tailgater portable design offers only 300 square inches of cooking space.
• The hopper is also small. You’ll need to refill it more frequently, as pellet levels drop quickly.
• This grill’s maximum temperature is 450 degrees F. It’s great for hamburgers and hot dogs, but it might not be the perfect unit for searing steaks.
• The Tailgater is more expensive than other portable units on the market.
• The digital controller and electronic components can be sensitive to extreme cold or wet weather conditions. Covering the grill and keeping it out of the element when not in use may help deter unwanted electrical issues.
• The auger and motor will likely wear out over time. Regular maintenance of the grill can help extend its lifespan.

Traeger Tailgater Portable Pellet Grill – Full Review

Traeger invented the pellet grill and was the first to introduce a portable model in 2011. The Tailgater is that model, and there have only been minor changes to this grill since then. It functions just like a full-sized unit and has the space to cook whole racks of ribs or even a whole-packer brisket. You get basic, no-frills pellet grilling but in an easy-to-use and familiar package.

The Traeger Tailgater is electric and needs a 120-volt plug to power it. However, once it is up to temperature, the wattage draw is low. Many people successfully run their Tailgater off of the RV batteries without having to run a generator. So, while you do need an outlet for this portable grill, it works great at the RV park or off of any generator or most battery backups.

About Me

I have been writing about Barbecue & Grilling for 25 years. I have cooked on almost every grill or smoker ever built. In those years I have always endeavored to match people with the grill or smoker that is right for them. I believe that the right product is the one that you find easy to use, capable of doing everything you want, and is reliable. If you have a good first experience, you will be back for more. In this way, we grow barbecue for the next generation. I want you to make the memories that your children will cherish.

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