If you want to find the most popular pellet grill brands, look no further than Recteq and Traeger. If you are looking for a grill to suit your family's needs, deciding between these two brands can be tough. While Recteq (Rec Tec) is a newer grill, it has received consistently high ratings. On the other hand, Traeger is an established and trustworthy brand. After researching both brands, we will compare and contrast the similarities and differences between both so you can choose the best grill for your next family barbecue.
Recteq vs. Traeger: Comparing the Two Brands
Recteq, also known as “Rec Tec,” is a popular brand in the world of pellet grills. The company was founded in 2009 by Ray Carnes and Ron Cundy, with a focus on grills that use wood pellets as fuel to give a smoky flavor to the food. The brand is known for its state-of-the-art technology and features. It has a reputation for producing durable and innovative pellet grills. Recteq's digital controllers provide precise temperature control, making it easier to achieve consistent grilling results. Additionally, Recteq provides excellent customer service and support for their products. Moreover, the company stays current with the latest advancements in grilling technology.
Joe Traeger, the founder of Traeger Grills, is credited with creating the world's first pellet grill in 1985. Traeger's goal was to combine the convenience of a gas grill with the flavor of wood-fired cooking. The company quickly gained a reputation for its user-friendly design and unique ability to add flavor to food. As more pellet grills entered the market, Traeger continued to innovate, introducing new models and features to their basic grills. Today, Traeger offers a range of smart technology and accessories for outdoor grilling enthusiasts.
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Recteq vs. Traeger: Comparing Two Popular Models
To get an idea of what each brand offers, let us compare the newer RT-700 WIFI-enabled Pellet Grill with the comparable Traeger Ironwood 650.
| Recteq RT-700 | Traeger Ironwood 650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 56 x 32 50 inches | 46 x 27 x 47 inches |
| Hopper Capacity | 40 pounds | 20 pounds |
| Cooking Area | 702 square inches | 650 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180°F – 500°F | 165°F-500°F |
| WIFI | Yes | Yes |
| Storage | Folding shelf (sold separately) | Folding shelf (sold separately) |
| Pellet Purge System | No | Yes |
| Direct Flame | No | No |
| Meat Probes | 2 | 1 |
| Warranty | 6 years | 3 years |
The pros of Recteq's flagship grill, the RT-700, include stainless steel construction and a large 1,054 square-inch grill. This grill also includes a six-year warranty. However, for an entry-level pellet grill, the cost is pretty high at approximately $1,200. Additionally, the app, while functional, lacks features such as the ability to set up different temperatures on a timer. Customers might expect more features in a grill of this price range.
The Traeger Ironwood 650 has numerous advantages, such as a high-functioning digital controller. It also has a downdraft exhaust system that helps maintain heat and a lower grate that is perfect for searing meat. The grill boasts several new technologies, including a D2 system, TurboTemp, a timer, and a “keep warm” feature. It also comes with WiFi and its own app. Additionally, it is compatible with Alexa. However, it has a shorter warranty period of only three years and a smaller grill space.
Recteq vs. Traeger: Other Key Considerations
The RT-700, with its forty-pound capacity, ensures you can cook for forty hours without the interruption of a refill. In contrast, the Traeger, with a 20-pound capacity, provides a shorter cooking time. The Recteq also features an interior light, a feature absent in the Traeger. Additionally, the RT-700 impresses with its temperature control setup, which includes a second temperature probe.
Additionally, both brands get high marks for their customer service. While Traeger uses helpful US-based representatives who are knowledgeable about their products, Recteq actually puts the phone number of the company's founders on its grills. For customer service, this is impressive since it means you get support from someone who helped develop the grill. Recteq also offers more support options, including email and live chat.
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In Summary
Both Recteq and Traeger are reputable grill brands that use high-quality materials to build durable and sturdy pellet grills. They both incorporate advanced technology, such as digital controllers for precise temperature control and monitoring. Both brands offer a range of grill sizes to accommodate different cooking needs, although the cooking surface may vary between models.
Both brands not only provide a variety of accessories to enhance the grilling experience but also use smart technology. This technology is a game-changer as it enables you to monitor your grill remotely, adding a layer of convenience to your grilling experience. Moreover, both companies have excellent customer service. Ultimately, your choice of grill will depend on your budget, cooking needs, and how much importance you place on technology in your grilling experience.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Badger13/Shutterstock.com.