Awesome Tom!! Glad to hear you are having fun with that pit!! I certainly like both of these but the 1600 just has more value!! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!!
Thanks Andrew!! Obviously this was a lot of fun to edit and I am happy you enjoyed the Video Game theme in this one!!! I appreciate you leaving a comment brother!!
ok, probably one of the coolest comparison videos i've seen! I liked the thumbnail and came in, the information was very good and will help me decide on future purchases
Great review. I found it informative and helped me make my decision. As a metal fabricator, the metal thickness alone was enough for me to choose the Pit Boss over the Traeger. I just unboxed it and assembled it yesterday and I came back here to mention that some of the things that the Traeger may have beat the Pit Boss out on, have been addressed by Pit Boss. They must have watched this video too. LOL. The model I got was the Pit Boss Pro Series 1150 V3 (third version), some of the things they addressed..... 1) You now can control temperature in 5-degree increments 2) The grates are not diamonds anymore. They are not wire, they are still cast and coated, but they have parallel lines running fore and aft, making it easier to clean. 3) I dont remember which video you mentioned the front tray in, if it was this one or a different one, but you said something about not using the front tray much because food can get stuck where the logo is embossed and it is hard to clean....Pit Boss addressed that too. The V3 is no longer embossed. The logo is painted on so its a smooth surface, much easier to clean. I dont know what improvements Traeger has made in the last year but Im super happy with what Pit Boss has done with their V3. The 850s that were at the store (Lowes) still had the diamond grates and the embossed logo but the 1150 has been upgraded. Im not sure about the 1600.....those 850s could have still been V2s too, Im not sure. Im not even sure if there is a V3 of the 850 but anyway.....super happy with the one I got. Thanks.
The Pit Boss has a longer warranty and I have no experience with Traeger but Pit Boss's Customer Service the one and only time I had to call them they took care of everything and I was happy with the results! My old 1100 is still running strong and is used a couple times a week, I gave it to my best friend! Thanks for watching!
SMART!!! Very smart!! Chris makes very high quality pits and I will have a 20x42 soon also! That size is still getting a few updates as of 2 weeks ago but my guess in a couple weeks I should have mine so I can share it with everyone! Thanks for watching Robert!
Awesome Jimmy!! Glad I could help!! Yes pellet grills are made to help you save time but still have a great dinner!! I appreciate you watching brother!
Yes the top 2 come out but when i first got the 1600 on the first cook I planned to cook more in it but because of the tightness from shelf to shelf I had to fire up another pit so I could cook everything for a party I was doing. Still though there is a lot of room in this pit for the normal home owner!! Thanks for watching!!
Thanks Dash!! I had a lot of fun making this one, even if I sat in the editing chair for 36 hours!! ha ha Both pit s are great but the 1600 has all the bells and whistles! I appreciate you watching bud!!
Happy to hear you enjoyed it Bill!! Obviously this comes from when we were younger over at H-Backs house and all the immaturity conversations about video games! hahaha
Thank you Kent!! This one was a lot of fun to make for sure! I like both pits but at the moment Pit Boss is hands down a better value!! Thanks for watching brother and have a great week!!
Thank you David!! Obviously these 2 companies are big so it was only fair for me to put my best foot forward for this video! I appreciate you watching and leaving a comment!!
You nailed it, brother. That control panel on the Traeger looks like the real deal. My guess. Both pits are winners. That said. I do love my PB1600.... Cheers.
Thanks Tommy and i agree and from last year Pro Series models to this years Pit Boss took a huge step in the right direction with a PID controller and I see them to continue to fine tune their models!! I like the Traeger but it feels like buying a new car that you have to add the power window package when everyone else has that feature in the standard options!! Have a great week brother!
Hahahaha ya Claude the ole Mortal Kombat movie is what inspired this video!!! Well in a way but my video is better than that old movie!! hahahah I still got to see the new one!! Have a great week brother!!
Nice job on this trick I learned from Rics BBQ and Specialties use an onion on those grates and it will loosen stuff up on those bottom grates of the 1600 I do it after it gets rid of the nasty smoke on start up and is a little warmer helps out a lot then leave it in for the cook just a thought 😀
Yes I have used that trick on my Weber many times but I still do not like this diamond pattern design. The old Austin XL grates is what I want!!! hahaha Thanks for watching Bill and glad you enjoyed the video!!
Outstanding review! Just subscribed, any chance we can get a Rec rec 2500 BFG vs Pitt Boss 1600 review as I am down to these two. If not what's your personal preference and why? Thanks in advance
The Rec Tec 2500 would be my choice if money is not a concern! The Rec Tec has an incredible controller and that model is HUGE!!! Thanks for watching and I am glad you enjoyed the video!!
Good luck on your search!!! Budget is the big thing and most box store pellet grills cook the same, some just have better features than others!! Thanks for watching!!
@@DeadBrokeBBQcheers. Just went and ordered a pit boss today. Fortunately on a good discount but budget can be pretty relative. Yes it was expensive for a BBQ, but still cheaper than a baseline kitchen oven. Economics might be different in NZ to USA but it was about the same price as getting takeout for my family 10-12 times. So if I use it once a week for a good meal it's paid off in three months of not getting takeout.
Heck ya Kurtis!! I like both of these pits but hands down if I was going to buy one or the other I am going Pit Boss in this battle!! Thanks for commenting and both my Pit Boss's have ran like champs!!
Yep I know that Joe and I think his son worked for Dansons. Traeger sued them and that is why you don't see the copper colors anymore. Obviously more than that in the lawsuit but I am glad they changed the colors!! hahaha Thanks for watching!!
@@isaiahtucker801I dunno about that, I've got a pitboss and I always regret not buying a trager when I walk past them and fiddle. This trager model isn't really comparable to this pitboss, it should've been the Austin XL.
@@macky181 just the basic traeger models compared to the basic pit boss models the traeger just feels cheep I can’t help it the lid feels like junk I just couldn’t push myself to buy one
@macky181 I have the opposite experience. I went with the Traeger and every time I walked past a pitboss, I get aggravated that I paid more for less. Today I put my Traeger out on the street, and got the 1150 pro.
Hahahah thanks Eric!!! This one certainly was a lot of fun and brought back a few memories chillin with my buddies back in the day!! I appreciate you watching!!
Hi Eric-I use an iMac with Final Cut Pro X. The smoke is an effect that I finally decided to use and it worked out pretty dang good! hahaha Glad you enjoyed the editing brother!
Cris I can not answer that question at this moment but I will find out and if I hear there are replacements I certainly will talk about it in an upcoming video!!
Awesome and thanks for joining the Nation!!! Ya this one I spent some time in the editing chair but it certainly was a lot of fun to make!! I appreciate you leaving a comment!!
Hey Ricer! You get an A+ for creativity! Great job on the edit sir. Great comparison of the two pellet grills I am sure this will help a lot of people make a decision. Take care.
Thanks Johnny!! You know as well as I do sometimes you got to put a little more time in to an edit. I am just glad people enjoy my sense of humor and get the Mortal Kombat theme!! hahaha Like always Johnny thanks for watching!!
They both are good both have benefits and downfalls from price to build quality but having both wouldn't be a bad thing ....be awesome both will get the job done
I 100% agree bro!! I just feel Pit Boss at the moment is cutting some profit to give more to their customers but Traeger still has the better controller options!! Thanks for watching!
Jeff, love the review, not many people will speak ill of Treager and it is good to see some honest reviews with proof to back up the claims. Traeger is the Harely Davidson of pellet grills. Good quality but overpriced form the pit to the accessories to the parts just like Harley Davidson. And I own a Harely! I feel the compitition has cought up and passed Traeger on quality and Value. Even the timberline, quality pit but at over $2,000 you are in the Yoder and other great pits that blow Traeger away.
You nailed to Curtis!! Hands down the Pit Boss is just built better but it still lacks in the controller compared to the Traeger. I released a video 1 year to the day on the DLX vs Pit Boss and from my old 1100 to the new 1600 they have taken a huge step forward in a year!! I have a lot of faith that Pit Boss will continue this trend! Like always thanks for watching and leaving a comment!!
I have been comparing these two pellet grills. You have sold me on the pit boss for sure. Great video. I have watched several of your videos about these pellet grills. Thank you, I feel like I can make an informative purchase!
All my buddies who used to be traeger fans are now pit boss owners. Way more value and way more options for a lower price. Plus their customer service is great.
I have to say, Pit Boss's customer service is amongst the best I've ever experienced. I bought a Pit Boss Pro XL 1200 at a auction for a steal. It came with a broken knob on the controller. Pitt Boss had a new controller to me in 3 days at no cost. I was fully prepared to purchase the controller.
Heck ya DB!! The Traeger is still a great pit but they charge double for half the pit and features. I will say the controller is awesome on this 780!! But my guess Pit Boss will keep improving their controller as well!! Thanks for watching brother!
Oddly about a year ago I was looking at 1k budget. My brother and I broke them all down and played with them. I was sold on treager at first... but while at 5 shops the guys bragging happy were pit boss 1550 or 1600 series. Adding to metal thickness... we decided pit boss. I got mine 500, I'd built him a few things he bought almost every accessory to man. Now countless cooks including hellacious storms it kept temperatures. I still got my stick burner, but I can do well and maintain my projects. Now for grill stuff sorry I use my grill. But for easy to work take care of family I love it. Wife and me and my 16 month old love bbq. Also higher capacity on pit boss for pellets. I can set brisket set alarm and run 4 probes plus I run another wifi set. I just go to bed, let her run. I use wifi running to store or working in fields. I live in sealy near Houston we are humidity no issues in year. I do recommend for any pellet smoker buy a good battery shop vac or be near outlet. The pit boss 1550 dang near 1600 for 500 regular and it runs away. I want a 2k nice stick burner. But family man. Also pit boss upgraded controllers. I go hey can I buy that in email 7p Sunday. 8pm Sunday send us your address... a month later (screw covid) new controller with instructions. Pretty pleased. 😍
Heck ya Charles!! I really like what Pit Boss did this year. I had the 1100 last year and I was very happy with it but now since I got the 1600 man that old Pro Series could't even come close to how good the new one runs! My new controller gives more smoke as well. There are a ,ot of things that I have said in other videos that I didn't say in this one because it would have been a 30 minutes video but I am very happy to say Pit Boss has it going on!! I must add though Traegers controller is awesome and I hope to see Pit Boss add a few other the same features to theirs in the next Pro Series models. Thanks for leaving this awesome comment for others to read!! I appreciate you watching!!
Nice video. Talked to multiple people before my purchase and a few that had gotten the pitboss regret it so i went with the Traeger. Couldn't be happier,
Thanks Omar and I am happy you enjoyed it!! Both of these pits are dang good but right now Pit Boss has my vote for the best box store pellet grill money can buy!! I appreciate you watching bro!!
This is one of the best all around comparison reviews I've seen on youtube. You covered all the bases and made it fun. I know you spent a ton of time on those Mortal Combat graphics but I LOVE how you used them. Totally supported the theme of the video without over-taking it. Or to put it another way...this video is going to help a lot of people. Excellent, excellent work, my friend.
Thank you Justin!!! As you know the biggest task in making a video is to tell a story without adding a bunch of fluff which I am guilty at all the time!! ha ha But I am very happy to hear that people enjoy the way I did this on!! Both are good pits and I tried to point that out but today Pit Boss had the upper hand with that double smoke stack flying super blue powder chamber punch!!! ha ha
Nice review. I’ve had the Pitboss for about 6 months and LOVE it. The sear plate is a great feature for finishing foods. Traeger is a super popular brand but I think Pitboss is the superior unit for a lot of what you highlighted.
Thank you Joesph!! I really like the 1600 but I have to say I truly hope they get their controller to work more like Traegers in the Pro Series Gen 3.0! PB's controller though is light years a head of my older 1100! But with that I would still buy the 1600 over the 780! I appreciate you watching!!
How’s the smoke flavor on a pitboss? I use an offset smoker but have been thinking of buying a pellet smoker but I’ve heard that you don’t get too much of the Smokey flavor
@@co_kurwa it’s subtle on a shorter smoke, like burgers. Depends on the type of pellets you use from what I’ve heard. Pitboss pellets are not over powering, neither are Traegar. But I’ve heard others are strong. Longer smokes like pork butt or brisket def get that Smokey flavor even with pit boss pellets.
I say go for the Pit Boss. I’ve had my 820d for 7 or 8 years and it’s still going. One of the main differences between the two brands is the ability to expose the fire for searing on the Pit Boss. I use that option on mine all the time to sear steaks and pork chops. Pit Boss customer service is great as well. I had my fire go out mid cook on some ribs a couple weeks ago. I just finished them off in the oven. Long story short, the fire reignited and I decided to pour some water in the fire pot to put it out. That caused the pellets to swell, including some in the auger. After cleaning the fire pot I decided to turn it on and test it. The Auger was jammed up from the swollen pellets inside. Turns out I broke a small bushing and one of the tabs on the ignition rod where it mounts to the control board. I called Pit Boss looking for help and they sent me the parts free of charge. That’s on a grill that is waaay out of warranty! I was expecting, this is the part numbers you need, and you can go to this site and order them. They took my info and sent them free of charge!!😎
That is awesome!! I am glad to hear your pit is still running strong!! Great news on the customer service also! Thanks for sharing this awesome info Micah! I appreciate you watching and joking the conversation!
My Bradley died right before a cook and I had to go get what was available locally. And that was a Traeger Pro 34, and then of course Lowes starts flaunting in my face that they had Pit Boss Pro 850 for the same price with more features but for shipping only. This video cured me of my buyers remorse. Thank you.
I just bought the Pit Boss 820D3. The front tray on it is smooth, so nothing gets stuck in the letters. I take the grates out and clean them in the sink. No big deal there. Doesn't take long, and keeps them like new. I do wish it had the burn pot clean out though. Overall, I'm extremely happy with it. It's built like a tank, and weighs about as much as one. Lol
Awesome Jason but I still want regular grates like the Austin XL had! I have enough things I need to clean up after a cook but taking the grates to the sink will never be an option for me. I do pressure wash them twice a year though. Thanks for watching brother!
I just recently bought a Treager before I saw this video, and while it probably wouldn't have made me change my mind, I do appreciate the info and the style of this presentation. 👍🙂
Great video and you really pointed out the important points in both smokers. I'm in Ontario, Canada and have owned a Traeger Lil' Tex Elite since 2012. I have just just replaced the induction fan this week and that is the only problem that I've had with it so far. My wife and I winter down in Texas in the RGV, and I'm seriously thinking of buying another one for down there. Looking at the Traeger because of my experience although I'm sure Pit Boss is very good also.
Heck ya and again this video was to show what you get for a certain budget. I really like Traegers controller but just a bummer they can add one extra shelf for half the size of a pit next to the 1600. I am not a brand person at all but I do buy by value and quality most of the time! Thanks for watching!!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ You're lucky that you have the extra shelf. I believe that the Traeger Pro 22, (which is the same as my Lil' Tex Elite), comes with the extra half shelf on top. Mine has only the full shelf although I have seen on TH-cam a guy that added some "L' brackets and added a shelf. A Pro 22 is US$ 599.99 and my Lil' Tex cost Cnd$ 799.99, (approx. US$ 615.00).
I have the Pit Boss CS 1250 and I've used it now over 2 years and it has been great. When I use it I'm cooking for about 15 to 20 people so I cook a lot of food. I added some Oklahoma Joe's temperature gauges on each corner of the lid I sealed up any leaks of smoke I added a little piece of metal under the heat diffuser plate so the heat doesn't bombard the built-in temperature gauge. I have basically made your Pit Boss my own by adding features. I have cooked probably 50 briskets and they always turn out great I do chicken and sausage pork butts one thing I did do though is I bought a pellet tube and I usually do charcoal pellets in that and then use different wood pellets on the side adding that charcoal to that tube gives the meat a whole other layer of flavor like you only get from a barbecue grill. I have never owned a another type of pellet smoker so I can only say what I have experienced with this Pit Boss but with that said I have not been disappointed with it.
Several months ago I researched pellet grills in my price range for a couple weeks and decided on the pitboss 850ps2, great decision. Haven’t had a single issue out of around 10 cooks so far. Ran it twice for 19+ hours no issues. I just really want the 10 degree incriminates that the 1150 and 1600 have
Awesome Ryan!! those 10° incriminates are nice but you really don't need them. My old concern was more that I could get a 275° option! These pit hold a decent resale value so next year maybe sell the 850 and get an 1150??? Have fun with that pit Ryan and thanks for watching!!
Im still torn i keep hearing about thebfire hazard issue pittboss is having with the pellet clean out on the bottom have you seen any ash or flames coming from the bottom
I did months and months of research on youtube and review sites before I bought my pellet smoker. I went with Camp Chef as it seems to have the best features of both of these smokers, plus it has an easier pot to clean up. Most people don't know about Camp Chef because they are not available in Lowes or Home Depot, but easy enough to find if you look. Great review and keep up the good work... first time here. :)
Thanks for watching Dan!! Yes Camp Chef makes a nice pit for sure! One of these days I want to get one in here and put it through the course! I got a new pit coming in this week though that hands down will destroy every chinese made pit to date! But it is a buy once cry once pit but my grand kids will cook on that pit! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ I hear ya man, hard to tell these days what's US Made vs. what's made in other countries. Keep up the great work and can't wait to see your review of your new pit.
Thank you Bobbi! I certainly hope this helps people looking for the best way to spend their hard earned cash!! Both pits are great but the 1600 just has more to offer!! Like always I appreciate you watching!!
Had my horizontal pitboss for over 3 years. I love I actually have bought a tailgate pitboss for I travel trailer and just bought a3rd horizontal for my daughter and son in law for Christmas. Great video Jeff Bought all 3 of ours at Walmart it was cheaper than lowes
Maybe someday but this really was about a comparable price and what you get. I want to get a Camp Chef in here one of these days and give it a review!! Thanks for watching!!
Ah heck Meegs save your change brother!! That is what I had to do when I bought my first pellet grill!! Wife said NO you can't use the bank account, woman!! hahahaha Glad you enjoyed the video bro!!
Wisconsin guy here. The guys in our Texas hog hunting camp were impressed with the pit boss, but one guy in camp said he had the Traeger counterpart, and that it's far superior. He claims it generates a more even heat. I think 3 of us decided to buy the Pit Boss anyway, but I wanted to get some advice. You provided that, and did a great job in the process. Thank you!
Heck ya and honestly I like almost every pit I cook on. There are just some I like more and some I think you get better value out of!!! Thanks for watching brother!!!!
Holy crap Jeff! What an awesome video and so well put together! You made it super clear who the winner was, and exactly why! Seriously love the Mortal Combat theme! Big props to ya brother!
Thank you Rus!!! I am glad you enjoyed this video!! You obviously knew I was working on this one but I am glad to hear you loved the video game theme!!! This one was a time consuming edit but with comments like this makes me say it was certainly worth it!!! You are correct hands down Pit Boss won this battle!! I appreciate you watching bro!!
Very thorough review. I have had several freinds who bought the traeger and complained that they rust out easily. I never have been impressed with the thickness of material on the traeger....for that price you would think they would do a better job by beefing up the thickness. Traeger was one of the first pellets grills offered to the public but over the years they really haven't added or improved in their product. I know many people who have the pit boss and it isbhit or miss when getting a good one. I have always been weber kettle kind of guy who likes to use lump charcoal and real hardwood. I bought a spider 22 pellet attachment for my weber and other then getting it hooked without difficulty I was impressed. I did modify mine which makes it much easier when dropping it down to ground level. Most all of these pellet grills utilize the same PID controller although some have more options when it comes to WIFI. Not long after I got my Spider 22 and realized I did like pellet cooking in certain situations and the keeping accurate temperatures I decided to research and get a good qaulity pellet grill/smoker. I talked to many individuals who use the pitboss, traeger, komodos....you name it I talked to end users. I also researched for qaulity and complaints and finally decided to get the recteq pro380. I always loved the weber design when it came to the dome cover so the 380 was right up my alley. I ha e had it for over a year and I have put it through the test and it has performed flawlessly. I like the pitboss but they do not offer a true stainless steel version. Some pellet grills are picky when it comes to certain pellets and the Recteq eats whatever you feed it. It also has a fantastic ash dump feature that really made my decision. Only problem with recteq is they are not cheap. In conclusion most pellets grills if taken care and used properly will give the neck yard grilled many years of enjoyment. To each his own but based on what I have researched and after talking to many individuals...Traeger would be my last choice. For the life of me I don't understand why they do not offer one that has a ash dump system. Again...Great review and I agree 100% on the potboss being the winner over the traeger. Great job!
Thank you Alex!! YA I like a lot of things Traeger does but I do they they are a tad overpriced compared to what you get from other brands! I have the Timberline XL and it is a very nice pit but it really doesn't run any better than any of their other pits but the XL is almost $4k?? Anyways I appreciate you watching and I am glad you enjoyed the video!!
I just bought a pit boss Austin xl from Walmart three weeks ago. I paid $347.00 for it and it has 1000 square inch cooking area a 32 pound pellet hopper and a two cooking surfaces. I have used it at least 10 times and I just love it, everything cooked great on it with no issues. Setup was easy and after first cooking cycle, everything was great about it.
Bought my pit boss 820 pro when I quit smoking. I absolutely love this thing. I've never had a problem with it (knock on wood) and it holds temp like a champ.
Wow TJ! Thank you brother, I am really happy to hear that I finally got a video approval from you!! I really mean that and appreciate the nice comment for once!!! For that I am giving you my famous "have a great week brother" hahaha
Bought the Pit Boss 1600 after this video review and just finished my first cook. 100% satisfied and their customer service is great. New PID is already on its way.
That looks like a lot of effort went into doing this comparison! Impressive! I learned a lot about pellet grills today, so when my husband wants a new one maybe I'll let him get it lol.
Heck ya Cris but I think you should maybe just surprise him with one if you can swing it? I mean you will certainly guaranteed to win the greatest wife in the world award! hahah Thanks for watching!
I have the pitboss laredo 1000 and absolutely love it. I have been using it for over a year now cooking ribs, pork butt, fish, pizza, ect. It does fabulous. I did have 1 issue with a temp probe going out. Their customer service was simple to use and they they sent a new one that arrived within a few days. I especially love the open flame to sear any meat that I want to get a nice crust on.
I wish you tested or mentioned the times it took for each grill to get up to temp. I had a 2020 pit boss Laredo and it took the longest time to get to temp! Like over 45 minutes to get to 375 or 400. I then had problems with the auger and had to get a new one shipped out. Even with the new auger it was slower than slow getting to temp. I also had a negative experience with the sear plate even when closed it would let a large amount of grease down into the grill, mixing with ash and making the worst sludge to have to clean out. I decided to return the grill in the end. I got a treager and I feel like it is a much nicer made product. The quality of the motor and the controller are miles ahead of the pit boss and it can heat up soon much faster I can start my grill and get it to 400 in 10 minutes easy. The grill stays much cleaner and I think it's overall easier to maintain.
If I did a comparison on every nut and bolt it still wouldn't be enough for everyone. hahaha But funny you mentioned the Laredo because I might be doing some videos on the 2021 model. I like the Traeger but with the updated firmware on the 1600 it isn't that long before it is preheated but it is also twice the size of the 780. But stay tuned because I am getting the best pellet grill made in 2021 this week so hopefully I can share that with everyone in a couple weeks. This pit will hands down crush any chinese made pellet grill ever made. I got more comparison videos planned and remember I am not brand loyal I just tell you what I like and dislike. Thanks for watching Bryce!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ Don't get me wrong your loved the video keep up the good work! Just thought I would put in my two cents and let you I would love to see time to temp taken into account.
Stumbled on this video doing some research , this guy is awesome I’ll be watching More videos as long as he’s making them , glad to be In the same state as this dude Keep up the great work
Thanks Ryan!! I appreciate that you took the time to watch this video brother!!! Welcome to the Nation dude and I hope to see you in the comments in the future!!
I've had both. Originally went with pitboss 1600 for value. Swapped out the controller and had issues getting the thing to get below 300 degrees. After all the work I put in, I just felt like it should be working better. Returned it and bought a traeger pro 780. Been happy with it and the reliability it is known for. I guess if my PB1600 worked as intended, I would've liked it better.
Nothing wrong with the Traeger pit but they just are overpriced for the options you get in my opinion. I have cooked on plenty of pits and I was disappointed there isn't at least another side shelf!! My 1600 now is running like a champ but I do like the Traeger controller options. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment William!
I have owned both and also 2 off-shoots of the pitboss. Just my experience ,but ALL put boss products lasted less than 6 months. Cooking temps were much less even, fluctuation was way greater....I got rid of them and went back to Traeger. Now that being said, I have a tailgate Green Mountain that is so fuggin badass. My next full size might be a green mountain.
Ya my old 1100 had a few issues but this 1600 has done good for me. But the Traeger is nice but feels more like a tin can in some areas. The controller is better on the Traeger. But with all that said my next pellet grill coming in soon will hands down crush any China pit made. Thanks for watching Jim!!!
Great video, lots of info. We just scrapped our Pit Boss 720 and looking at the Traeger (Ironwood) now I will have to reconsider buying another Pit Boss as you just demonstrated. Thanks for the Hard Choice...lol
The Ironwood is a good pit! A lot more money but still good. Traegers controllers are a little better! Thanks for watching and I guess sometimes it comes down to flipping a coin!!! hahaha
Nice comparison. I am thinking of upgrading from my small Pit Boss 456D for a variety of reasons but the biggest is temperature accuracy. Set at 250, I average 220 with my Thermoworks Signals at the centre of the grill. The higher the temperature, the greater the difference, topping out at only reaching 350 when set at 475. I notice you used a Thermoworks on one of your cooks. What is your experience with measured grate temperature compared to displayed pit temperature, especially at high temperatures? Thanks.
Hi Dave with the new updated controller on the 1600 it is almost dead on in the center by the fire pot but left to right there is still about a 25° difference but that is pretty good for a pellet grill. Their new PID controller is way better than the older models, still not epic but MUCH better than my old 1100. I use my Thermoworks on every low n slow cook, I just trust it! Again the new 1600 runs way better than my old 1100!! Thanks for watching!!
only up to 350° but again with as many cooks I have had on both the 1100 and the 1600, my new 1600 aka Baby Huey certainly holds a lot closer than my old 1100 and an 820 that I cooked on a lot but was only in like 1 video I did for Rus Jones over at Smoky Ribs.
The PB 1600CS (compaction series) has a larger area between the lower and middle grate but only 2 probe ports not 4 like the Pro. Plus it costs $200-300 less than the Pro. I have a 6 year old PB 830 that the controller died on. When I ordered a replacement it was an up graded model and it would not work on my grill. After going around and around with PB non customer service I rolled it into the shed and am going to go get a PB1600CS. Wish me luck 🤞
I watched this video a year ago, went with the Pit Boss. It was a total nightmare. Insane assembly, app wifi issues, poor quality, I returned it and was so frustrated by the experience that I didn't replace it. Fast forward a year, I got the Traeger Pellet Grill Pro 780, NIGHT AND DAY. It's 1000x better. Better design, better quality, better app, better community. Yes, it's more money, but you get what you pay for. I should say, I did add gasket tape to the Traeger lid because as pointed out, smoke was escaping.
Thank you!!!! i have been looking at both for the past month. I talked to a couple of sales people at Costco/ Lowes/ Home Depot. Its settled, PIT BOSS is for my choice
Heck ya Fatcat!! Both are great pits but for the value the Pit Boss just gives you more features! Have fun with that pit and I am happy with my 1600 and still use it!! Thanks for watching!
Love my 1600. I have no regrets on buying it. I looked at the traeger once and I opened the lid and felt like aluminum cans. I said no thanks. Awesome video BTW.
I've been eying one of the smaller traeger Grills for a while and just couldn't justify $600+ when I already have a charcoal smoker. I was in lowes last night and they had a stack of the smaller pit boss pro 600 pellet grill/smokers for $139. I couldn't turn that opportunity down.
Awesome my Pit Boss on the folding shelf the metal backing piece that you were saying was hard to clean it slides out the bottom of the flip up shelf for easy cleaning
Thanks Matt!! Ya obviously this one was a blast for me to make!!! My hinder got a little flatter from the time I spent in the editing chair!!! hahaha I was very happy on how it turned out and thanks for leaving a comment bro!! Ya the Traeger lost this match but I will say that controller they make is really nice and I hope to see Pit Boss to get theirs to do a couple of the same features in their next Pro Series!! Have a great week bud!!
I wish both came with a bigger wheel. True, that your probably going to be on a pad of some sort but sometimes you're gonna be in 4 wheel drive mode lol
Bought the Oklahoma Joe Rider several years ago and I love it. Huge cooking area with two half racks and a grill/sear area above the fire pot. Also bought the griddle which is great for veggies and fajitas. I like your review very in depth. Stay Smokey my friends.
Thank you very much and I do like both pits! Just the 1600 has a little more features at a lower price!! Thanks for leaving a comment!! It really does help the video to get a little push!! Have a great week and I hope to see you in the comments soon!!
I’ve had my Traeger since 2015 and it’s still going strong! It’s hard to switch after you’ve had a good experience with something, because I’m thinking of getting a bigger grill on the next purchase!
been using the table top pit boss for a while now, love the convenience and practicality. Pired with a an Anker power system supplemented with a 150w solar rig i was able to cook the entire summer of 2022 with it almost exclusively outside of boiling water on a rocket stove. Pit Boss is the BOSS!
I've had my 1500 Pit Boss since Father's Day. Absolutely love it!
Awesome Tom!! Glad to hear you are having fun with that pit!! I certainly like both of these but the 1600 just has more value!! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!!
I've had a treager for about 4 ,5 yrs now and I absolutely love it havent had any problems with it since I've owned it
Great comparison/review Ricer! I'm with you on the front shelves. 👍
Heck ya Joe!!! I want more room to put stuff and but make it easy to clean up or I won't use it!!! hahaha Thanks for watching bro!!
Great video Ricer! You did a great job on the comparison, and I love the Mortal Kombat theme 🤣🤣
Thanks Andrew!! Obviously this was a lot of fun to edit and I am happy you enjoyed the Video Game theme in this one!!! I appreciate you leaving a comment brother!!
P
I love my Pit Boss. Only had it about a month now and use it almost everyday. 🍻
Heck ya Mike!! I am a huge fan of mine also! It gets the job done!! I am happy to hear you are having fun with yours!!
Does it give off a lot of smoke that would annoy the neighbours ??
ok, probably one of the coolest comparison videos i've seen! I liked the thumbnail and came in, the information was very good and will help me decide on future purchases
Glad I could help Alton and very happy you enjoyed the video brother!!
Great review. I found it informative and helped me make my decision. As a metal fabricator, the metal thickness alone was enough for me to choose the Pit Boss over the Traeger. I just unboxed it and assembled it yesterday and I came back here to mention that some of the things that the Traeger may have beat the Pit Boss out on, have been addressed by Pit Boss. They must have watched this video too. LOL.
The model I got was the Pit Boss Pro Series 1150 V3 (third version), some of the things they addressed.....
1) You now can control temperature in 5-degree increments
2) The grates are not diamonds anymore. They are not wire, they are still cast and coated, but they have parallel lines running fore and aft, making it easier to clean.
3) I dont remember which video you mentioned the front tray in, if it was this one or a different one, but you said something about not using the front tray much because food can get stuck where the logo is embossed and it is hard to clean....Pit Boss addressed that too. The V3 is no longer embossed. The logo is painted on so its a smooth surface, much easier to clean.
I dont know what improvements Traeger has made in the last year but Im super happy with what Pit Boss has done with their V3. The 850s that were at the store (Lowes) still had the diamond grates and the embossed logo but the 1150 has been upgraded. Im not sure about the 1600.....those 850s could have still been V2s too, Im not sure. Im not even sure if there is a V3 of the 850 but anyway.....super happy with the one I got. Thanks.
Awesome Justin!!! I hope to get a V3 in here someday to demo!! Thanks for watching and have fun with that new pit!!!
Thanks for this comment!
Two things I would like to know. Customer Service if you have an issue and quality/dependability. Do they both have one year warranties?
The Pit Boss has a longer warranty and I have no experience with Traeger but Pit Boss's Customer Service the one and only time I had to call them they took care of everything and I was happy with the results! My old 1100 is still running strong and is used a couple times a week, I gave it to my best friend! Thanks for watching!
Great review….I had the 780 and got rid of it and ordered the new lone star grillz pellet grill 20x42…..I hope it lives up to its name!!!!
SMART!!! Very smart!! Chris makes very high quality pits and I will have a 20x42 soon also! That size is still getting a few updates as of 2 weeks ago but my guess in a couple weeks I should have mine so I can share it with everyone! Thanks for watching Robert!
Must be nice to be rich.
Great comparison bro. Love the mortal combat effects. Good info too!
Thank jake and I am glad you enjoyed the video brother!! Makes me want to play a few rounds of Mortal Kombat again!! hahaha
Nice video Geoff! The more I see that traeger the more I want one! Have a great week buddy!
Hahaha ya it is a good pit Brain!! hahaha Thanks for watching brother!
Good review Ricer I’m starting to look at pellets so this was helpful !
Awesome Jimmy!! Glad I could help!! Yes pellet grills are made to help you save time but still have a great dinner!! I appreciate you watching brother!
Can you remove the racks on the Pitboss 1600? To get more height..?
Yes the top 2 come out but when i first got the 1600 on the first cook I planned to cook more in it but because of the tightness from shelf to shelf I had to fire up another pit so I could cook everything for a party I was doing. Still though there is a lot of room in this pit for the normal home owner!! Thanks for watching!!
Well done! this was by far one of your best comparison videos. *slow clap*
Thanks Dash!! I had a lot of fun making this one, even if I sat in the editing chair for 36 hours!! ha ha Both pit s are great but the 1600 has all the bells and whistles! I appreciate you watching bud!!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ I wasn't even going to ask you how long this took to edit. But fan effing tastic!
I haven't sat down a lot today to be honest!! Lots of leaning on things!!! hahaha
@@DeadBrokeBBQ Tell your wife to be more gentle next time, lol
Hahahaha
Loved the video ricer! Informative and entertaining as hell! Thank you!
Happy to hear you enjoyed it Bill!! Obviously this comes from when we were younger over at H-Backs house and all the immaturity conversations about video games! hahaha
Amazing video ricer!! “It has begun” was so funny 😂
Thanks brother and I appreciate you watching!
The mortal kombat thing was the bomb. Most entertaining comparison video I have seen.
Hey thanks!!! Glad you enjoyed it!! I sure had fun editing this one!!
😊@@DeadBrokeBBQ
Great review Ricer. Definitely informative comparisons. Love the editing touch too.
Thank you Kent!! This one was a lot of fun to make for sure! I like both pits but at the moment Pit Boss is hands down a better value!! Thanks for watching brother and have a great week!!
Love the way you did the video and comparing
Thank you David!! Obviously these 2 companies are big so it was only fair for me to put my best foot forward for this video! I appreciate you watching and leaving a comment!!
How does the okjoe DLX compare?
3rd place. The DXL needs a new controller and a better auger motor. Hope to see that in Gen 2.0!! Thanks for watching!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ I'm hoping they will make it an upgradeable kit
Certainly be nice!!
You nailed it, brother. That control panel on the Traeger looks like the real deal. My guess. Both pits are winners. That said. I do love my PB1600.... Cheers.
Thanks Tommy and i agree and from last year Pro Series models to this years Pit Boss took a huge step in the right direction with a PID controller and I see them to continue to fine tune their models!! I like the Traeger but it feels like buying a new car that you have to add the power window package when everyone else has that feature in the standard options!! Have a great week brother!
Great video ricer! Very detailed.
Thanks Kevin!! Glad you enjoyed it brother!
Great comparison. I always though Trager is a bit overrated. Now I want to watch Mortal Combat.
Hahahaha ya Claude the ole Mortal Kombat movie is what inspired this video!!! Well in a way but my video is better than that old movie!! hahahah I still got to see the new one!! Have a great week brother!!
Nice job on this trick I learned from Rics BBQ and Specialties use an onion on those grates and it will loosen stuff up on those bottom grates of the 1600 I do it after it gets rid of the nasty smoke on start up and is a little warmer helps out a lot then leave it in for the cook just a thought 😀
Yes I have used that trick on my Weber many times but I still do not like this diamond pattern design. The old Austin XL grates is what I want!!! hahaha Thanks for watching Bill and glad you enjoyed the video!!
Outstanding review! Just subscribed, any chance we can get a Rec rec 2500 BFG vs Pitt Boss 1600 review as I am down to these two. If not what's your personal preference and why? Thanks in advance
The Rec Tec 2500 would be my choice if money is not a concern! The Rec Tec has an incredible controller and that model is HUGE!!! Thanks for watching and I am glad you enjoyed the video!!
Looking into buying a pellet grill and this was super helpful. Will be looking at the rest of your channel. Thanks.
Good luck on your search!!! Budget is the big thing and most box store pellet grills cook the same, some just have better features than others!! Thanks for watching!!
@@DeadBrokeBBQcheers. Just went and ordered a pit boss today. Fortunately on a good discount but budget can be pretty relative. Yes it was expensive for a BBQ, but still cheaper than a baseline kitchen oven. Economics might be different in NZ to USA but it was about the same price as getting takeout for my family 10-12 times. So if I use it once a week for a good meal it's paid off in three months of not getting takeout.
@@tonykuriger573 Awesome brother!!! Enjoy that new pit!!!!!
oh that was really cool, great job on the video
Thank you and I appreciate you watching and letting me know!!
I've always gone with the underdog and love my pitboss I've had 3 already great vid for sure though
Heck ya Kurtis!! I like both of these pits but hands down if I was going to buy one or the other I am going Pit Boss in this battle!! Thanks for commenting and both my Pit Boss's have ran like champs!!
Pit Boss is the affordable Traeger. Were you aware that Joe Traeger (founded Traeger) sold the business and now consults for Pit Boss?
Yep I know that Joe and I think his son worked for Dansons. Traeger sued them and that is why you don't see the copper colors anymore. Obviously more than that in the lawsuit but I am glad they changed the colors!! hahaha Thanks for watching!!
Traeger feels cheaper than the pit boss tbh
@@isaiahtucker801I dunno about that, I've got a pitboss and I always regret not buying a trager when I walk past them and fiddle. This trager model isn't really comparable to this pitboss, it should've been the Austin XL.
@@macky181 just the basic traeger models compared to the basic pit boss models the traeger just feels cheep I can’t help it the lid feels like junk I just couldn’t push myself to buy one
@macky181 I have the opposite experience. I went with the Traeger and every time I walked past a pitboss, I get aggravated that I paid more for less.
Today I put my Traeger out on the street, and got the 1150 pro.
Hands down best thumbnail!
Hahahah thanks Eric!!! This one certainly was a lot of fun and brought back a few memories chillin with my buddies back in the day!! I appreciate you watching!!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ always! What software did you use on this one? Nice job on the editing!
Hi Eric-I use an iMac with Final Cut Pro X. The smoke is an effect that I finally decided to use and it worked out pretty dang good! hahaha Glad you enjoyed the editing brother!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ yeah now way Bradly R (Chud) could pull this off. 🤣
Ha ha thank you Eric!!! Ha ha
I don't know why I always watch videos like this after the purchase lol. You do a great job. Very entertaining!
Thank you Bill and I am glad you enjoyed the video! Obviously I had a lot of fun making this one!! Thanks for watching!!
😆 least you bought one i keep watching them then never buy
@@Johndada517 haha!
Holy wow that was a great comparison video! I felt like I was in the game like the classic Tron movie. 😂 Awesome job brother!
HAhahaha thanks Charley!!!! This certainly was a fun video to make and glad you felt like you were playing along!!! I appreciate you watching bro!!
Is there a replacement grate for the pit boss? I like the grate that would be easier to clean for sure.
Cris I can not answer that question at this moment but I will find out and if I hear there are replacements I certainly will talk about it in an upcoming video!!
I’m so glad you did this!
Awesome Carl and I am glad you watched it brother!! I hope you are doing good!!!
Came for the channel name, stayed for the great effects and editing. Well done!
Awesome and thanks for joining the Nation!!! Ya this one I spent some time in the editing chair but it certainly was a lot of fun to make!! I appreciate you leaving a comment!!
Hey Ricer! You get an A+ for creativity! Great job on the edit sir. Great comparison of the two pellet grills I am sure this will help a lot of people make a decision. Take care.
Thanks Johnny!! You know as well as I do sometimes you got to put a little more time in to an edit. I am just glad people enjoy my sense of humor and get the Mortal Kombat theme!! hahaha Like always Johnny thanks for watching!!
They both are good both have benefits and downfalls from price to build quality but having both wouldn't be a bad thing ....be awesome both will get the job done
I 100% agree bro!! I just feel Pit Boss at the moment is cutting some profit to give more to their customers but Traeger still has the better controller options!! Thanks for watching!
Easily one of the best reviews I've seen. Thanks Bud!
Thanks for watching and I appreciate the comment!!
Jeff, love the review, not many people will speak ill of Treager and it is good to see some honest reviews with proof to back up the claims. Traeger is the Harely Davidson of pellet grills. Good quality but overpriced form the pit to the accessories to the parts just like Harley Davidson. And I own a Harely! I feel the compitition has cought up and passed Traeger on quality and Value. Even the timberline, quality pit but at over $2,000 you are in the Yoder and other great pits that blow Traeger away.
You nailed to Curtis!! Hands down the Pit Boss is just built better but it still lacks in the controller compared to the Traeger. I released a video 1 year to the day on the DLX vs Pit Boss and from my old 1100 to the new 1600 they have taken a huge step forward in a year!! I have a lot of faith that Pit Boss will continue this trend! Like always thanks for watching and leaving a comment!!
Just enjoy the one you got. I’ve had a couple diff brands and ok with both.
I have been comparing these two pellet grills. You have sold me on the pit boss for sure. Great video. I have watched several of your videos about these pellet grills. Thank you, I feel like I can make an informative purchase!
YA just a tad more features on the Pit Boss. With that said, both Brands make a good pit!! Thanks for watching!
All my buddies who used to be traeger fans are now pit boss owners. Way more value and way more options for a lower price. Plus their customer service is great.
I agree Jordan! Pit Boss certainly has upped their game!! Thanks for commenting!!!!
I have to say, Pit Boss's customer service is amongst the best I've ever experienced. I bought a Pit Boss Pro XL 1200 at a auction for a steal. It came with a broken knob on the controller. Pitt Boss had a new controller to me in 3 days at no cost. I was fully prepared to purchase the controller.
Wow that is awesome and thanks for sharing!!
You must drive a Chevy?
Hahaha no Hyundai Hybrid and a Toyota. But my work vehicle is a Chevy.
Great video Ricer! You have me reconsidering my Traeger loyalty! When I’m ready for an upgrade I’m going to strongly consider the Pit Boss!
Heck ya DB!! The Traeger is still a great pit but they charge double for half the pit and features. I will say the controller is awesome on this 780!! But my guess Pit Boss will keep improving their controller as well!! Thanks for watching brother!
I'm going to have to check todays obituary. That Traeger was brutally murdered. Great video Ricer!
Hahahaha thanks Andrew and ya the Traeger is clearly outmatched in this one!! Thanks for watching brother!!
Oddly about a year ago I was looking at 1k budget. My brother and I broke them all down and played with them. I was sold on treager at first... but while at 5 shops the guys bragging happy were pit boss 1550 or 1600 series. Adding to metal thickness... we decided pit boss. I got mine 500, I'd built him a few things he bought almost every accessory to man. Now countless cooks including hellacious storms it kept temperatures. I still got my stick burner, but I can do well and maintain my projects. Now for grill stuff sorry I use my grill. But for easy to work take care of family I love it. Wife and me and my 16 month old love bbq. Also higher capacity on pit boss for pellets. I can set brisket set alarm and run 4 probes plus I run another wifi set. I just go to bed, let her run. I use wifi running to store or working in fields. I live in sealy near Houston we are humidity no issues in year. I do recommend for any pellet smoker buy a good battery shop vac or be near outlet. The pit boss 1550 dang near 1600 for 500 regular and it runs away. I want a 2k nice stick burner. But family man. Also pit boss upgraded controllers. I go hey can I buy that in email 7p Sunday. 8pm Sunday send us your address... a month later (screw covid) new controller with instructions. Pretty pleased. 😍
Heck ya Charles!! I really like what Pit Boss did this year. I had the 1100 last year and I was very happy with it but now since I got the 1600 man that old Pro Series could't even come close to how good the new one runs! My new controller gives more smoke as well. There are a ,ot of things that I have said in other videos that I didn't say in this one because it would have been a 30 minutes video but I am very happy to say Pit Boss has it going on!! I must add though Traegers controller is awesome and I hope to see Pit Boss add a few other the same features to theirs in the next Pro Series models. Thanks for leaving this awesome comment for others to read!! I appreciate you watching!!
What the hell were you trying to say?
Awesome review dude!!
Thank you and glad you enjoyed it!
Nice video. Talked to multiple people before my purchase and a few that had gotten the pitboss regret it so i went with the Traeger. Couldn't be happier,
Dang! Finish Him !! 😂🤣😂😂 Great stuff, even better comparison! Very detailed on both pits and fairly done. Awesome job
Thank you James!! I enjoyed making this video!! I am glad to hear you enjoyed it too!!
Great video! On my pit boss 820 I just un clip sear rod from sear plate. Then just roll it out of the way, I don't have to unscrew handle.
Ya it still gets in the way. My old 1100 model it came straight out. Thanks for watching Jim and I am glad you enjoyed the video!!
✅ out that Mortal Combat graphics ... 💯💯💯 genius.. Great work you've done here Jeff 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Thanks Omar and I am happy you enjoyed it!! Both of these pits are dang good but right now Pit Boss has my vote for the best box store pellet grill money can buy!! I appreciate you watching bro!!
Fantastic video Jeff! Your production is off the hook brother! I'm jealous!!!
Thanks Greg!!! I appreciate you watching bro!! I just press buttons on my production! ha ha
This is one of the best all around comparison reviews I've seen on youtube. You covered all the bases and made it fun.
I know you spent a ton of time on those Mortal Combat graphics but I LOVE how you used them. Totally supported the theme of the video without over-taking it. Or to put it another way...this video is going to help a lot of people.
Excellent, excellent work, my friend.
Thank you Justin!!! As you know the biggest task in making a video is to tell a story without adding a bunch of fluff which I am guilty at all the time!! ha ha But I am very happy to hear that people enjoy the way I did this on!! Both are good pits and I tried to point that out but today Pit Boss had the upper hand with that double smoke stack flying super blue powder chamber punch!!! ha ha
Nice review. I’ve had the Pitboss for about 6 months and LOVE it. The sear plate is a great feature for finishing foods. Traeger is a super popular brand but I think Pitboss is the superior unit for a lot of what you highlighted.
Thank you Joesph!! I really like the 1600 but I have to say I truly hope they get their controller to work more like Traegers in the Pro Series Gen 3.0! PB's controller though is light years a head of my older 1100! But with that I would still buy the 1600 over the 780! I appreciate you watching!!
How’s the smoke flavor on a pitboss? I use an offset smoker but have been thinking of buying a pellet smoker but I’ve heard that you don’t get too much of the Smokey flavor
@@co_kurwa it’s subtle on a shorter smoke, like burgers. Depends on the type of pellets you use from what I’ve heard. Pitboss pellets are not over powering, neither are Traegar. But I’ve heard others are strong. Longer smokes like pork butt or brisket def get that Smokey flavor even with pit boss pellets.
He did the basic model vs a premium model what do you expect. This is propaganda
@Brad Showalter they're both pretty similar price
I say go for the Pit Boss. I’ve had my 820d for 7 or 8 years and it’s still going. One of the main differences between the two brands is the ability to expose the fire for searing on the Pit Boss. I use that option on mine all the time to sear steaks and pork chops. Pit Boss customer service is great as well. I had my fire go out mid cook on some ribs a couple weeks ago. I just finished them off in the oven. Long story short, the fire reignited and I decided to pour some water in the fire pot to put it out. That caused the pellets to swell, including some in the auger. After cleaning the fire pot I decided to turn it on and test it. The Auger was jammed up from the swollen pellets inside. Turns out I broke a small bushing and one of the tabs on the ignition rod where it mounts to the control board. I called Pit Boss looking for help and they sent me the parts free of charge. That’s on a grill that is waaay out of warranty! I was expecting, this is the part numbers you need, and you can go to this site and order them. They took my info and sent them free of charge!!😎
That is awesome!! I am glad to hear your pit is still running strong!! Great news on the customer service also! Thanks for sharing this awesome info Micah! I appreciate you watching and joking the conversation!
That sear option is amazing for chicken and steaks. I have the Laredo and love it.
I guess water but yea water expands , I would of clear out pellets n put new ones in
Wow yeah you don’t see that sort of customer service much anymore these days. That’s an old school company right there.
I had mine 2 years, before scrapping it out. Constantly working on it and not cooking with it.
My Bradley died right before a cook and I had to go get what was available locally. And that was a Traeger Pro 34, and then of course Lowes starts flaunting in my face that they had Pit Boss Pro 850 for the same price with more features but for shipping only. This video cured me of my buyers remorse. Thank you.
The Pro 34 is not even close as good as the 780 but the 850 is pretty close to the 1600. You made the right choice! Thanks for watching!
I just bought the Pit Boss 820D3. The front tray on it is smooth, so nothing gets stuck in the letters. I take the grates out and clean them in the sink. No big deal there. Doesn't take long, and keeps them like new. I do wish it had the burn pot clean out though. Overall, I'm extremely happy with it. It's built like a tank, and weighs about as much as one. Lol
Awesome Jason but I still want regular grates like the Austin XL had! I have enough things I need to clean up after a cook but taking the grates to the sink will never be an option for me. I do pressure wash them twice a year though. Thanks for watching brother!
I just recently bought a Treager before I saw this video, and while it probably wouldn't have made me change my mind, I do appreciate the info and the style of this presentation. 👍🙂
Thanks for watching and you still got a good pit! I just wish Traeger would price them for what they are worth.
Excellent review Brother 👍🏻
Thanks Mike! This one was a lot of fun to make!! I appreciate you watching brother!!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ you’re welcome Brother! I just shared it to my Baker’s BBQ Group on Facebook 👍🏻
@@BakersBBQ Wow thank you Mike!!! I appreciate that!!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ sure thing Brother 👍🏻
Great vid....... love the MC theme that was my game back in the day.....
HAhahahah I loved that version also!!! Maybe they will show up in the future!! ha ha Thanks for watching Dan!!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ maybe a little Street Figher 2 🤔
hahahah great idea!!!! hahaha
MK not MC.
Great video and you really pointed out the important points in both smokers.
I'm in Ontario, Canada and have owned a Traeger Lil' Tex Elite since 2012. I have just just replaced the induction fan this week and that is the only problem that I've had with it so far. My wife and I winter down in Texas in the RGV, and I'm seriously thinking of buying another one for down there. Looking at the Traeger because of my experience although I'm sure Pit Boss is very good also.
Heck ya and again this video was to show what you get for a certain budget. I really like Traegers controller but just a bummer they can add one extra shelf for half the size of a pit next to the 1600. I am not a brand person at all but I do buy by value and quality most of the time! Thanks for watching!!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ
You're lucky that you have the extra shelf. I believe that the Traeger Pro 22, (which is the same as my Lil' Tex Elite), comes with the extra half shelf on top. Mine has only the full shelf although I have seen on TH-cam a guy that added some "L' brackets and added a shelf.
A Pro 22 is US$ 599.99 and my Lil' Tex cost Cnd$ 799.99, (approx. US$ 615.00).
I have the Pit Boss CS 1250 and I've used it now over 2 years and it has been great. When I use it I'm cooking for about 15 to 20 people so I cook a lot of food. I added some Oklahoma Joe's temperature gauges on each corner of the lid I sealed up any leaks of smoke I added a little piece of metal under the heat diffuser plate so the heat doesn't bombard the built-in temperature gauge. I have basically made your Pit Boss my own by adding features. I have cooked probably 50 briskets and they always turn out great I do chicken and sausage pork butts one thing I did do though is I bought a pellet tube and I usually do charcoal pellets in that and then use different wood pellets on the side adding that charcoal to that tube gives the meat a whole other layer of flavor like you only get from a barbecue grill. I have never owned a another type of pellet smoker so I can only say what I have experienced with this Pit Boss but with that said I have not been disappointed with it.
Awesome!!!
Several months ago I researched pellet grills in my price range for a couple weeks and decided on the pitboss 850ps2, great decision. Haven’t had a single issue out of around 10 cooks so far. Ran it twice for 19+ hours no issues. I just really want the 10 degree incriminates that the 1150 and 1600 have
Awesome Ryan!! those 10° incriminates are nice but you really don't need them. My old concern was more that I could get a 275° option! These pit hold a decent resale value so next year maybe sell the 850 and get an 1150??? Have fun with that pit Ryan and thanks for watching!!
You right!! I thought so too... the 850 Pro Series did it for me!
Ryan, I am also looking at the 850. Does it get to set temperature and hold it there well?
@@simoncapizzi9689 yes it does. It holds it so well you'll forget to check the pellets level and it'll be damg near empty and still holding heat lol.
Im still torn i keep hearing about thebfire hazard issue pittboss is having with the pellet clean out on the bottom have you seen any ash or flames coming from the bottom
I did months and months of research on youtube and review sites before I bought my pellet smoker. I went with Camp Chef as it seems to have the best features of both of these smokers, plus it has an easier pot to clean up. Most people don't know about Camp Chef because they are not available in Lowes or Home Depot, but easy enough to find if you look. Great review and keep up the good work... first time here. :)
Thanks for watching Dan!! Yes Camp Chef makes a nice pit for sure! One of these days I want to get one in here and put it through the course! I got a new pit coming in this week though that hands down will destroy every chinese made pit to date! But it is a buy once cry once pit but my grand kids will cook on that pit! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ I hear ya man, hard to tell these days what's US Made vs. what's made in other countries. Keep up the great work and can't wait to see your review of your new pit.
@@DeadBrokeBBQ I can’t wait to hear about the new one ray from Oregon
Very thorough comparison! I'm sure this will be helpful to so many people in the market for a pellet grill👍
Thank you Bobbi! I certainly hope this helps people looking for the best way to spend their hard earned cash!! Both pits are great but the 1600 just has more to offer!! Like always I appreciate you watching!!
Had my horizontal pitboss for over 3 years. I love I actually have bought a tailgate pitboss for I travel trailer and just bought a3rd horizontal for my daughter and son in law for Christmas. Great video Jeff
Bought all 3 of ours at Walmart it was cheaper than lowes
Awesome Jimmy!!!! Everyone is going to be eating good in your family!! Thanks for watching and I hope you had a fantastic Christmas!!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ I hope you do as well
Great job. I want to see pit boss VS Camp Chef woodwind 36.
I know pit boss will kill on price but features of woodwind are awesome
Maybe someday but this really was about a comparable price and what you get. I want to get a Camp Chef in here one of these days and give it a review!! Thanks for watching!!
Just got the Pit Boss 850, early Father's day present. Love it
Awesome have fun with the new pit!!
Epic battle! Nice review. Now if the wife would let me buy a pellet grill.
Ah heck Meegs save your change brother!! That is what I had to do when I bought my first pellet grill!! Wife said NO you can't use the bank account, woman!! hahahaha Glad you enjoyed the video bro!!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ tell your wives to kick rocks lol
Wisconsin guy here. The guys in our Texas hog hunting camp were impressed with the pit boss, but one guy in camp said he had the Traeger counterpart, and that it's far superior. He claims it generates a more even heat. I think 3 of us decided to buy the Pit Boss anyway, but I wanted to get some advice. You provided that, and did a great job in the process. Thank you!
Heck ya and honestly I like almost every pit I cook on. There are just some I like more and some I think you get better value out of!!! Thanks for watching brother!!!!
Holy crap Jeff! What an awesome video and so well put together! You made it super clear who the winner was, and exactly why! Seriously love the Mortal Combat theme! Big props to ya brother!
Thank you Rus!!! I am glad you enjoyed this video!! You obviously knew I was working on this one but I am glad to hear you loved the video game theme!!! This one was a time consuming edit but with comments like this makes me say it was certainly worth it!!! You are correct hands down Pit Boss won this battle!! I appreciate you watching bro!!
Very thorough review. I have had several freinds who bought the traeger and complained that they rust out easily. I never have been impressed with the thickness of material on the traeger....for that price you would think they would do a better job by beefing up the thickness. Traeger was one of the first pellets grills offered to the public but over the years they really haven't added or improved in their product. I know many people who have the pit boss and it isbhit or miss when getting a good one. I have always been weber kettle kind of guy who likes to use lump charcoal and real hardwood. I bought a spider 22 pellet attachment for my weber and other then getting it hooked without difficulty I was impressed. I did modify mine which makes it much easier when dropping it down to ground level. Most all of these pellet grills utilize the same PID controller although some have more options when it comes to WIFI. Not long after I got my Spider 22 and realized I did like pellet cooking in certain situations and the keeping accurate temperatures I decided to research and get a good qaulity pellet grill/smoker. I talked to many individuals who use the pitboss, traeger, komodos....you name it I talked to end users. I also researched for qaulity and complaints and finally decided to get the recteq pro380. I always loved the weber design when it came to the dome cover so the 380 was right up my alley. I ha e had it for over a year and I have put it through the test and it has performed flawlessly. I like the pitboss but they do not offer a true stainless steel version. Some pellet grills are picky when it comes to certain pellets and the Recteq eats whatever you feed it. It also has a fantastic ash dump feature that really made my decision. Only problem with recteq is they are not cheap. In conclusion most pellets grills if taken care and used properly will give the neck yard grilled many years of enjoyment. To each his own but based on what I have researched and after talking to many individuals...Traeger would be my last choice. For the life of me I don't understand why they do not offer one that has a ash dump system. Again...Great review and I agree 100% on the potboss being the winner over the traeger. Great job!
Thank you Alex!! YA I like a lot of things Traeger does but I do they they are a tad overpriced compared to what you get from other brands! I have the Timberline XL and it is a very nice pit but it really doesn't run any better than any of their other pits but the XL is almost $4k?? Anyways I appreciate you watching and I am glad you enjoyed the video!!
I just bought a pit boss Austin xl from Walmart three weeks ago. I paid $347.00 for it and it has 1000 square inch cooking area a 32 pound pellet hopper and a two cooking surfaces. I have used it at least 10 times and I just love it, everything cooked great on it with no issues. Setup was easy and after first cooking cycle, everything was great about it.
Awesome David! That pit has a lot of success stories so you got a good one for sure!! Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences!!!
How was the flavor? I’m looking to move from an ok joe to a pellet grill to save time.
Bought my pit boss 820 pro when I quit smoking. I absolutely love this thing. I've never had a problem with it (knock on wood) and it holds temp like a champ.
Awesome!!!
Well, I would normally have something to tweak you on but not this time! Great video sir!!
Wow TJ! Thank you brother, I am really happy to hear that I finally got a video approval from you!! I really mean that and appreciate the nice comment for once!!! For that I am giving you my famous "have a great week brother" hahaha
Bought the Pit Boss 1600 after this video review and just finished my first cook. 100% satisfied and their customer service is great. New PID is already on its way.
AWESOME!!!! Have fun and enjoy the new pit!! Thanks for watching and Happy Holidays!!
That looks like a lot of effort went into doing this comparison! Impressive! I learned a lot about pellet grills today, so when my husband wants a new one maybe I'll let him get it lol.
Heck ya Cris but I think you should maybe just surprise him with one if you can swing it? I mean you will certainly guaranteed to win the greatest wife in the world award! hahah Thanks for watching!
I have the pitboss laredo 1000 and absolutely love it. I have been using it for over a year now cooking ribs, pork butt, fish, pizza, ect. It does fabulous. I did have 1 issue with a temp probe going out. Their customer service was simple to use and they they sent a new one that arrived within a few days. I especially love the open flame to sear any meat that I want to get a nice crust on.
Heck ya nice pit!! Thanks for watching!
That’s a tough one. I like pitboss but I like scorpion, I’m torn
Hahahaha me too but seeing that Traeger's Logo is more orange Scorpion had to join the Traeger team!! hahaha Thanks for watching Matt!!
One of your best and most helpful videos. Then again, it helps to have my selection confirmed by you.
Thanks for watching!!!
I wish you tested or mentioned the times it took for each grill to get up to temp. I had a 2020 pit boss Laredo and it took the longest time to get to temp! Like over 45 minutes to get to 375 or 400. I then had problems with the auger and had to get a new one shipped out. Even with the new auger it was slower than slow getting to temp. I also had a negative experience with the sear plate even when closed it would let a large amount of grease down into the grill, mixing with ash and making the worst sludge to have to clean out. I decided to return the grill in the end. I got a treager and I feel like it is a much nicer made product. The quality of the motor and the controller are miles ahead of the pit boss and it can heat up soon much faster I can start my grill and get it to 400 in 10 minutes easy. The grill stays much cleaner and I think it's overall easier to maintain.
If I did a comparison on every nut and bolt it still wouldn't be enough for everyone. hahaha But funny you mentioned the Laredo because I might be doing some videos on the 2021 model. I like the Traeger but with the updated firmware on the 1600 it isn't that long before it is preheated but it is also twice the size of the 780. But stay tuned because I am getting the best pellet grill made in 2021 this week so hopefully I can share that with everyone in a couple weeks. This pit will hands down crush any chinese made pellet grill ever made. I got more comparison videos planned and remember I am not brand loyal I just tell you what I like and dislike. Thanks for watching Bryce!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ Don't get me wrong your loved the video keep up the good work! Just thought I would put in my two cents and let you I would love to see time to temp taken into account.
Stumbled on this video doing some research , this guy is awesome I’ll be watching More videos as long as he’s making them , glad to be In the same state as this dude
Keep up the great work
Thanks Ryan!! I appreciate that you took the time to watch this video brother!!! Welcome to the Nation dude and I hope to see you in the comments in the future!!
I've had both. Originally went with pitboss 1600 for value. Swapped out the controller and had issues getting the thing to get below 300 degrees. After all the work I put in, I just felt like it should be working better. Returned it and bought a traeger pro 780. Been happy with it and the reliability it is known for. I guess if my PB1600 worked as intended, I would've liked it better.
Nothing wrong with the Traeger pit but they just are overpriced for the options you get in my opinion. I have cooked on plenty of pits and I was disappointed there isn't at least another side shelf!! My 1600 now is running like a champ but I do like the Traeger controller options. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment William!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ for sure, that's how they get ya. Love the videos. Keep it up sir!
Thanks bro and glad you enjoy my videos!
Traeger is built better in my opinion. Less features but, more reliable!
What is great video. A few years ago we got the Pit Boss Austin XL and we luv it.
Thanks for watching!!! Heck ya the XL has been an awesome pit for sure!
I have owned both and also 2 off-shoots of the pitboss. Just my experience ,but ALL put boss products lasted less than 6 months. Cooking temps were much less even, fluctuation was way greater....I got rid of them and went back to Traeger. Now that being said, I have a tailgate Green Mountain that is so fuggin badass. My next full size might be a green mountain.
Ya my old 1100 had a few issues but this 1600 has done good for me. But the Traeger is nice but feels more like a tin can in some areas. The controller is better on the Traeger. But with all that said my next pellet grill coming in soon will hands down crush any China pit made. Thanks for watching Jim!!!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ Wait you have a new smoker coming in?? What you get???
I am getting the new Lone Star Grillz pellet grill 20x42. Not here yet but hopefully real soon!
@dead broke bbq, that's cool, I may need to look into that one. Let us know how she performs .
My pit boss is going strong a few years now
Great video, lots of info. We just scrapped our Pit Boss 720 and looking at the Traeger (Ironwood) now I will have to reconsider buying another Pit Boss as you just demonstrated. Thanks for the Hard Choice...lol
The Ironwood is a good pit! A lot more money but still good. Traegers controllers are a little better! Thanks for watching and I guess sometimes it comes down to flipping a coin!!! hahaha
Nice comparison. I am thinking of upgrading from my small Pit Boss 456D for a variety of reasons but the biggest is temperature accuracy. Set at 250, I average 220 with my Thermoworks Signals at the centre of the grill. The higher the temperature, the greater the difference, topping out at only reaching 350 when set at 475. I notice you used a Thermoworks on one of your cooks. What is your experience with measured grate temperature compared to displayed pit temperature, especially at high temperatures? Thanks.
Hi Dave with the new updated controller on the 1600 it is almost dead on in the center by the fire pot but left to right there is still about a 25° difference but that is pretty good for a pellet grill. Their new PID controller is way better than the older models, still not epic but MUCH better than my old 1100. I use my Thermoworks on every low n slow cook, I just trust it! Again the new 1600 runs way better than my old 1100!! Thanks for watching!!
@@DeadBrokeBBQ Have you ever measured it a higher temperatures?
only up to 350° but again with as many cooks I have had on both the 1100 and the 1600, my new 1600 aka Baby Huey certainly holds a lot closer than my old 1100 and an 820 that I cooked on a lot but was only in like 1 video I did for Rus Jones over at Smoky Ribs.
The PB 1600CS (compaction series) has a larger area between the lower and middle grate but only 2 probe ports not 4 like the Pro. Plus it costs $200-300 less than the Pro.
I have a 6 year old PB 830 that the controller died on. When I ordered a replacement it was an up graded model and it would not work on my grill. After going around and around with PB non customer service I rolled it into the shed and am going to go get a PB1600CS. Wish me luck 🤞
I watched this video a year ago, went with the Pit Boss. It was a total nightmare. Insane assembly, app wifi issues, poor quality, I returned it and was so frustrated by the experience that I didn't replace it.
Fast forward a year, I got the Traeger Pellet Grill Pro 780, NIGHT AND DAY. It's 1000x better. Better design, better quality, better app, better community. Yes, it's more money, but you get what you pay for.
I should say, I did add gasket tape to the Traeger lid because as pointed out, smoke was escaping.
Thank you!!!! i have been looking at both for the past month. I talked to a couple of sales people at Costco/ Lowes/ Home Depot.
Its settled, PIT BOSS is for my choice
Heck ya Fatcat!! Both are great pits but for the value the Pit Boss just gives you more features! Have fun with that pit and I am happy with my 1600 and still use it!! Thanks for watching!
Love my 1600. I have no regrets on buying it. I looked at the traeger once and I opened the lid and felt like aluminum cans. I said no thanks. Awesome video BTW.
Thank you Jason!! Yes I agree the 1600 feels like a cooker that will last longer!
I've been eying one of the smaller traeger Grills for a while and just couldn't justify $600+ when I already have a charcoal smoker.
I was in lowes last night and they had a stack of the smaller pit boss pro 600 pellet grill/smokers for $139. I couldn't turn that opportunity down.
@@sexytopramen that is awesome. I would bought another for that price 😁
@@jasonbrown5376 I almost did. Ended up calling a good friend who rushed to the store and bought two 😂
Awesome my Pit Boss on the folding shelf the metal backing piece that you were saying was hard to clean it slides out the bottom of the flip up shelf for easy cleaning
Nice video I love my 1600
Heck ya Mark! Great value for sure with all the right creature comforts!! Thanks for watching!
Really appreciate your probe tip as I was on the fence
Dang this was beautifully done Jeff! Awesome job!
Poor Traegar got some pop knots on the head I tell ya!
Thanks Matt!! Ya obviously this one was a blast for me to make!!! My hinder got a little flatter from the time I spent in the editing chair!!! hahaha I was very happy on how it turned out and thanks for leaving a comment bro!! Ya the Traeger lost this match but I will say that controller they make is really nice and I hope to see Pit Boss to get theirs to do a couple of the same features in their next Pro Series!! Have a great week bud!!
Great comparison, and excellent information. Love the "Ninja" mortal combat graphics in the video.
HAhahaa glad you enjoyed the video!!
I wish both came with a bigger wheel. True, that your probably going to be on a pad of some sort but sometimes you're gonna be in 4 wheel drive mode lol
Hahahah ya 4x4 would be good for me to get it back down by my fire ring!!
Bought the Oklahoma Joe Rider several years ago and I love it. Huge cooking area with two half racks and a grill/sear area above the fire pot. Also bought the griddle which is great for veggies and fajitas. I like your review very in depth. Stay Smokey my friends.
Thanks for watching Jeff!
I have been looking at the OK Joes Rider Combo Gas/Pellet. It’s between that and the Pit Boss version… which is $150 more.
Great comparison, right down the middle and very fair to both brands. You do a great job, and it's always fun watching your videos.
Thank you very much and I do like both pits! Just the 1600 has a little more features at a lower price!! Thanks for leaving a comment!! It really does help the video to get a little push!! Have a great week and I hope to see you in the comments soon!!
I’ve had my Traeger since 2015 and it’s still going strong! It’s hard to switch after you’ve had a good experience with something, because I’m thinking of getting a bigger grill on the next purchase!
Nothing wrong with a Traeger!! They make good pits but they cost more. I am a big fan of the new Ironwood XlL!!! Thanks for watching!!
This video was simultaneously the cheesiest, most wholesome, yet most informative pellet smoker video I have seen. Bravo, good sir.
Ha ha pretty much what I was striving for! Glad you enjoyed the video!!
been using the table top pit boss for a while now, love the convenience and practicality. Pired with a an Anker power system supplemented with a 150w solar rig i was able to cook the entire summer of 2022 with it almost exclusively outside of boiling water on a rocket stove. Pit Boss is the BOSS!