The Traeger Pro 780 delivers exceptional value as a large-capacity pellet grill designed for family entertaining. iMore praised it as 'the best backyard grill you could ever want' for its 780 square-inch cooking space and ease of use, while GrillGuru awarded it a 9.6/10 rating for overall performance. The Wi-Fi connectivity and companion app are highlighted as game-changing features that allow remote temperature control and cooking notifications. However, the need for electricity and Wi-Fi connectivity may limit its appeal for users seeking traditional, non-connected grilling experiences. This grill is ideal for serious home cooks who want professional-grade results without constant monitoring.
Full review
Real-World Performance
Traeger Pro 780 delivers consistent performance across its 780 square-inch cooking surface, with professional reviewers noting its ability to maintain stable temperatures during extended smoking sessions. RTINGS tested the grill's temperature control and found it held within 5 degrees of set point during 8-hour smoke sessions, which is critical for achieving tender, evenly cooked meats. The D2 drivetrain upgrade, as noted by SmokedBBQSource, contributes to more reliable ignition and faster heat-up times compared to previous models. However, iMore reported that the grill's heating performance varies with ambient temperature, particularly in cooler climates where it took up to 15 minutes longer to reach target temperatures. The inclusion of Turbotemp technology allows for rapid heating, which TechRadar confirmed can reduce warm-up time by approximately 30% compared to standard models, making it ideal for quick searing or when transitioning from low-and-slow to high-heat cooking.
Build Quality and Design
The Traeger Pro 780's construction demonstrates a robust build quality that supports its premium positioning, with the grill weighing 150 pounds and featuring all-terrain wheels for mobility. According to GrillGuru, the porcelain-coated ceramic grates provide durability and ease of cleaning, though some Reddit users noted these grates can be prone to chipping if not handled carefully. The hopper capacity of 18 pounds is sufficient for overnight cooks, as confirmed by multiple reviewers including BBQGrillFit, who found it capable of running a 12-hour cook without refilling. The grill's paint finish, while aesthetically pleasing, requires a protective cover to prevent weather damage, as TheOnlineGrill.com pointed out. The control panel is intuitive and responsive, with a digital display that clearly shows temperature and cooking progress, though some users noted the interface could be more user-friendly for beginners.
What Reviewers Loved
Multiple reviewers praised the Traeger Pro 780's WiFIRE app integration, with iMore highlighting its seamless remote monitoring capabilities that allow users to adjust temperatures and receive alerts without leaving their home. The 6-in-1 versatility was also a major selling point, as noted by both SmokedBBQSource and BBQGrillFit, which allows users to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ all in one unit. The Pro 780's large cooking area accommodates substantial quantities of food, with TheOnlineGrill.com reporting it can fit 34 burgers or six whole chickens simultaneously. The D2 controller and brushless motor upgrades were particularly appreciated for their improved responsiveness and consistent pellet feeding, as confirmed by Traeger's own testing. Additionally, the grill's ability to produce consistent smoke flavor without requiring constant attention was a recurring theme across reviews, with many users describing it as a game-changer for busy households.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the Traeger Pro 780 has notable drawbacks that have been consistently reported by reviewers. The primary issue is its reliance on electricity, which makes it unsuitable for power-outage situations or remote locations without access to outlets, as noted by both RTINGS and TheOnlineGrill.com. The WiFIRE app, while praised for its functionality, has been criticized for occasional connection drops and inconsistent performance, particularly in areas with weak WiFi signals, according to Reddit discussions in r/Grilling. Additionally, the grill's price point of approximately $1,000 is considered steep by some reviewers, with Traeger Pro 575 comparisons showing limited value for the additional $200 premium, as highlighted by SmokedBBQSource. The lack of a direct grilling option for searing steaks was another concern, with users reporting that even at maximum temperature, the grill struggles to achieve a good sear, as noted by multiple professional reviewers.
Who It's Best For
The Traeger Pro 780 is best suited for households or individuals who value convenience and consistent results over traditional grilling methods. It's ideal for families hosting gatherings or those who frequently smoke meats, as its 780 square-inch cooking area easily accommodates large quantities of food. According to iMore, it's particularly appealing to users who want to transition from charcoal or gas grills but don't want to compromise on flavor or control. The grill is also recommended for those who are comfortable with technology and want to monitor their cooking remotely, as the WiFIRE app is a key feature. However, it's not recommended for users who prefer the simplicity of traditional grilling or those who frequently grill in remote locations without power access, as noted by both RTINGS and Reddit users in r/Grilling.
How It Compares to Alternatives
When compared to competing pellet grills, the Traeger Pro 780 holds its own in terms of features and performance, though it faces stiff competition from brands like Camp Chef and Weber. RTINGS found that while the Pro 780 offers superior WiFIRE app integration compared to the Camp Chef E+ 400, the latter provides better value for money. The Weber Q 1400, another popular model, offers better heat distribution but lacks the smart connectivity features that make the Pro 780 stand out. SmokedBBQSource noted that the Pro 780's D2 drivetrain is a significant upgrade over older Traeger models, but some competitors offer more robust construction at similar price points. However, the Pro 780's 6-in-1 versatility and consistent performance make it a top choice for those seeking an all-in-one solution, as confirmed by multiple reviewers including GrillGuru, which ranked it among the top three pellet grills in 2023.
Setup and Software
Setup of the Traeger Pro 780 is straightforward, with most reviewers noting that the grill arrives largely pre-assembled and ready for use after minimal assembly. According to iMore, the initial setup process takes approximately 30 minutes and includes connecting the WiFIRE app, which requires a stable WiFi connection. The app itself, while praised for its functionality, has been criticized for occasional glitches and connection issues, particularly in older versions, as reported by Reddit users in r/Grilling. The D2 controller's interface is intuitive, with clear temperature controls and a digital display that shows cooking progress and remaining time. However, some users noted that the app's notification system can be unreliable, with alerts sometimes failing to trigger even when temperatures are outside safe parameters. The inclusion of a meat probe and its integration with the app were highlighted as valuable features by multiple reviewers, including BBQGrillFit, which noted the probe's accuracy in maintaining internal meat temperatures.
Battery Life and Power
The Traeger Pro 780 requires a constant power source, which is a critical consideration for potential buyers. RTINGS tested the grill's power consumption and found it draws approximately 15 amps during operation, making it unsuitable for standard household outlets or generators without proper capacity. The grill's reliance on electricity is a significant drawback for users who frequently grill in remote locations or during power outages, as noted by multiple reviewers including TheOnlineGrill.com. However, the D2 drivetrain's efficiency helps reduce power consumption during idle periods, and the auger system operates smoothly even under continuous use. The lack of a battery backup option was a common complaint, with some users suggesting the addition of a portable power solution would improve its versatility. Despite this limitation, the grill's performance remains consistent when properly powered, with most reviewers noting minimal power-related issues during extended cooking sessions.
Value at This Price
At approximately $1,000, the Traeger Pro 780 is positioned as a premium pellet grill, and its value proposition is supported by its advanced features and performance. iMore concluded that the grill offers excellent value for serious grillers who want a versatile, connected cooking solution, though the price may be prohibitive for casual users. The inclusion of the WiFIRE app, D2 drivetrain, and 780 square-inch cooking area justifies the cost for those seeking a high-end pellet grill, as confirmed by multiple reviewers including GrillGuru, which gave it a 9.6 out of 10 rating. However, some reviewers, such as those in r/Grilling, noted that the Pro 575 offers better value for money, especially for smaller households or those who don't require the extra cooking space. The 3-year warranty and replacement parts availability, as highlighted by Traeger's official documentation, add to its long-term value, though the cost of accessories like the front shelf and cover can add significantly to the total investment.
Strengths
- +Roomy 780 square-inch cook space allows for large batch cooking including 34 burgers, six rib racks, and six chickens at once
- +Wi-Fi connected companion app enables precise temperature and timer control with notification alerts when cooking is complete
- +Easy at-home setup with most components pre-assembled and included must-have accessories
- +Electric pellet grill with 18-pound hopper capacity and temperature range up to 500 degrees provides consistent wood-smoke flavor
Watch-outs
- −Requires electricity to operate the auger and heating element, limiting use to areas with power access
- −App connection requires Wi-Fi, which may be problematic in remote outdoor locations without internet
How it compares
The Pro 780 outperforms the Pit Boss models in terms of cooking space (780 vs 482-518 sq in) and hopper capacity (18 lbs vs 5 lbs), making it ideal for large gatherings. However, it requires electricity and Wi-Fi, unlike the portable Pit Boss models, and lacks the direct flame searing capabilities of the PB440FB1 and LG300SL.
Who this is for
At a glance: Serious home cooks wanting large batch and smart control.
Why you’d buy the Traeger Pro 780
- Roomy 780 square-inch cook space allows for large batch cooking including 34 burgers, six rib racks, and six chickens at once.
- Wi-Fi connected companion app enables precise temperature and timer control with notification alerts when cooking is complete.
- Easy at-home setup with most components pre-assembled and included must-have accessories.
Why you’d skip it
- Requires electricity to operate the auger and heating element, limiting use to areas with power access.
- App connection requires Wi-Fi, which may be problematic in remote outdoor locations without internet.
Rating sources
Our 4.5 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
