This comprehensive review explores every aspect of the Traeger Pro 575, from its specifications and performance to how it stacks up against competitors. After analyzing years of real-world use data and expert opinions, we’ll help you determine if this is the right pellet grill for your outdoor cooking needs in 2025.
What Is the Traeger Pro 575?
The Traeger Pro 575 is the smaller model in Traeger’s Pro Series, which represents their entry-level line of WiFi-enabled pellet grills. Despite being the “budget” option in Traeger’s lineup, the Pro 575 incorporates sophisticated technology and solid construction that pellet grill enthusiasts have come to expect from the brand.
Key Specifications
- Cooking Capacity: 572 square inches total (418 sq in main cooking grate, 154 sq in secondary rack)
- Hopper Capacity: 18 pounds of pellets
- Temperature Range: 165°F to 500°F
- Construction: Powder-coated steel exterior
- Weight: 124 pounds
- Dimensions: 53″ x 41″ x 27″ (H x W x D)
- WiFi Capability: Yes, with Traeger’s WiFIRE app
- Included Probes: One meat temperature probe
The Pro 575 was introduced in 2019 as part of Traeger’s refresh of their lineup, replacing the older Pro 22 model. It represented a significant upgrade by adding WiFi capability and the improved D2 Direct Drive controller system.
Design and Build Quality
Construction and Durability
The Traeger Pro 575 features a robust powder-coated steel construction that stands up well to the elements. The barrel-shaped design is classic Traeger—functional and visually appealing. At 124 pounds, it’s substantial enough to remain stable during use while still providing some mobility with its two all-terrain wheels.
Long-term users report that the porcelain-coated grill grates show excellent durability, with no signs of rust after years of regular use. The overall build quality inspires confidence that this is a grill designed to last well beyond its 3-year warranty period.
Portability and Placement
While not precisely “portable,” the Pro 575 features a lift-and-roll design with two fixed legs and two wheels. A handle on the left side allows you to tilt and move the grill when needed. However, at 124 pounds, it’s not something you’ll want to relocate frequently.
The grill requires an electrical outlet to operate, so placement needs to account for access to power. The WiFi controller uses a 2.4GHz connection, which means it works best when your home router is relatively close by.
Aesthetic Appeal
The Pro 575 maintains Traeger’s signature barrel-smoker profile with clean lines and a professional appearance. It comes in either black or bronze finish options. While not as eye-catching as some of Traeger’s premium models, the Pro 575 still makes a handsome addition to any patio or deck setup.
Read more: Traeger Pro 22 Review
Traeger Pro 575 Controller
The Pro 575’s D2 Direct Drive controller represents a significant upgrade from earlier Traeger models. This PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller maintains temperature with impressive precision, typically staying within 5-10°F of the set point at lower cooking temperatures.
WiFIRE Technology
Perhaps the most significant feature of the Pro 575 controller is its WiFIRE connectivity. This allows you to monitor and control your grill remotely via the Traeger app on your smartphone. The app provides:
- Remote temperature adjustment
- Timer settings
- Food temperature monitoring
- Notifications when food reaches the target temperature
- Access to hundreds of recipes
- “Keep Warm” mode activation
- Shut down controls
The latest version of the app includes integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, allowing voice control capabilities. There’s even an Apple Watch app for monitoring your cooking from your wrist.
Temperature Control and Precision
The controller lets you set temperatures in 5-degree increments from 165°F to 500°F. At lower temperatures (165°F-250°F), the grill maintains remarkable stability, typically fluctuating only 5-10°F around the set point. As temperatures climb higher, larger fluctuations can occur, which is normal for pellet grills.
One characteristic to note: the left side of the grill (near the chimney) tends to run hotter than the right side, with the difference becoming more pronounced at higher temperatures. At maximum temperature, this difference can reach about 30°F from one side to the other.
Startup and Shutdown Processes
Starting the Traeger Pro 575 involves a straightforward but not instantaneous process. The ignition cycle takes about 15 minutes as the grill primes the firepot with pellets and brings them to combustion temperature.
The grill also requires a proper shutdown cycle that runs for approximately 15-20 minutes. This safety feature ensures the fire is completely extinguished and cools components properly. Users should never skip this shutdown process, even if it means waiting a bit longer before covering or storing the grill.
Cooking Performance
The true measure of any grill is its performance with food; this is where the Traeger Pro 575 excels.
Low and Slow Smoking
Smoking is where pellet grills excel, and the Pro 575 is no exception. The consistent low-temperature control makes it ideal for traditional barbecue cuts like brisket, pork shoulder, and ribs. Users consistently report excellent results with these long-cooking items.
The smoke flavor from the Pro 575 tends to be milder than what you might get from offset smokers or charcoal smokers with added wood chunks. This milder profile appeals to many families, as it’s less likely to overwhelm those who aren’t fans of heavy smoke flavors.
For more intense smoke flavor, experienced users recommend starting cooks at the lowest temperature setting (165°F) for 1-2 hours before raising to the desired cooking temperature.
Roasting and Baking
The convection-style heating of the Pro 575 creates an excellent environment for roasting and baking. Whole chickens come out with crispy skin and juicy meat when cooked at 350-400°F. The grill also handles unconventional items like pizza, bread, and even cookies with impressive results.
This versatility transforms the Traeger from a single-purpose smoker into a true outdoor cooking system that can replace multiple appliances.
High-Temperature Grilling
The limitation most commonly noted in Traeger Pro 575 reviews concerns its searing capability. With a maximum temperature of 500°F, the grill can’t create the same intense sear marks as a traditional gas or charcoal grill might.
The indirect heating method also means that you won’t get flare-ups that can add flavor to steaks and burgers. However, many users report that once they adapt their cooking style, they prefer the results from the Traeger. Burgers, in particular, tend to come out juicier and more evenly cooked than on gas grills.
For serious steak enthusiasts, the reverse sear method works well: smoke the steak at a low temperature until it’s almost done, then crank the heat to the maximum for finishing.
Real-World Food Results
Users consistently praise the Pro 575’s performance with specific foods:
- Pork Shoulder: Develops excellent bark and smoke ring with minimal effort
- Ribs: Perfect tenderness with good texture
- Brisket: Beautiful smoke ring and consistent results
- Poultry: Juicy with crispy skin when cooked at higher temperatures
- Burgers: Surprisingly excellent, juicy, and flavorful
- Tri-Tip: Particularly foolproof, with excellent results
- Fish: Gentle smoke flavor without overcooking
- Vegetables: Develop rich flavor with beautiful caramelization
Pellet Usage and Fuel Economy
The Traeger Pro 575 burns wood pellets as its fuel source, which influences both operating costs and flavor profiles.
Pellet Consumption Rates
Pellet usage varies based on cooking temperature and external conditions:
- Low temperature (165-225°F): Approximately 1 pound per hour
- Medium temperature (250-350°F): 1.5-2 pounds per hour
- High temperature (375-500°F): 2-3 pounds per hour
The 18-pound hopper capacity provides plenty of runtime for most cooking sessions, including overnight smokes. However, for very long cooks in cold weather, you may need to refill the hopper.
Pellet Varieties and Flavors
Traeger recommends using their branded pellets, with the Signature Blend (hickory, maple, and cherry) being the most versatile option. While there are subtle differences between wood varieties, many experienced users report that the differences are less pronounced than with traditional smoking methods.
One important tip from multiple users: Always check pellet levels before starting a cook. Running out of pellets mid-cook creates complications that can be difficult to resolve without completing a full shutdown cycle.
Cost Considerations
When comparing operating costs to propane grills, pellet grills generally cost more to fuel. One long-term user estimated spending roughly twice as much on pellets as they previously spent on propane. However, this calculation is complicated by the fact that most Traeger owners end up using their grill more frequently than they did their previous grill.
A 20-pound bag of Traeger pellets costs approximately $20-25, providing roughly 10-20 hours of cooking time, depending on temperature settings.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
One of the Traeger Pro 575’s strongest selling points is its user-friendly operation, especially for those new to smoking.
Initial Setup and Assembly
Most users report that assembly takes 1-2 hours with clear instructions. The packaging includes a logical grouping of parts and excellent protection during shipping.
WiFi setup can be occasionally challenging, particularly for those with complex home networks. The grill only connects to 2.4GHz networks, not the faster 5GHz band, which can create confusion for some users.
Day-to-Day Operation
The learning curve for basic operation is minimal. Load pellets, set the temperature, and let the grill do its work. The meat probe simplifies cooking to temperature rather than time, taking much of the guesswork out of barbecue.
The most common operational issue reported is running out of pellets during a cook. This creates a challenging situation because the auger tube emptying means a significant delay in returning to the cooking temperature.
Cleaning Requirements
The Traeger Pro 575 requires regular maintenance for optimal performance:
- After Every Cook: Empty the Grease Bucket
- Every 3-5 Cooks: Replace foil on the drip tray
- Every 5-10 Cooks: Vacuum ash from the firepot
- Seasonally: Deep clean interior surfaces
Traeger sells liners for both the drip tray and grease bucket, though heavy-duty aluminum foil works just as well for the drip tray at a fraction of the cost.
Traeger Pro 575 vs. Other Models
Within the Traeger Family
| Features/ Models | Traeger Pro 575 | Traeger Pro 780 | Traeger Ironwood 650 | Traeger Timberline 850 | Traeger Mesa |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Capacity | 572 square inches | 780 square inches | 650 square inches | 850 square inches | 176 square inches |
| Price | Base Price | Approx. $200 more than Pro 575 | Approx. $500 more than Pro 575 | Nearly twice the price of Pro 575 | Lower price point |
| Dimensions | 45 x 26 x 49 in. | 49 x 27 x 49 in. | 49 x 27 x 49 in. | 50 x 27 x 50 in. | 37 x 19 x 36 in. |
| Weight | 120 lbs | 135 lbs | 140 lbs | 190 lbs | 50 lbs |
| Insulation | Standard | Standard | Double-wall insulation | Fully insulated | Standard |
| Smoke Management | Standard | Standard | Downdraft exhaust system | Advanced smoke management system | Standard |
| Grill Grates | Porcelain-coated steel | Porcelain-coated steel | Porcelain-coated steel | Three tiers of stainless steel grates | Porcelain-coated steel |
| Temperature Range | 180°F - 500°F | 180°F - 500°F | 180°F - 500°F | 180°F - 500°F | 180°F - 450°F |
| Control System | Digital Elite Controller | WiFIRE technology (smart app control) | WiFIRE technology (smart app control) | WiFIRE technology (smart app control) | Analog temperature control |
| Special Features | Easy clean-up, built-in meat probe | Higher cooking capacity, advanced controller | Super Smoke mode, upgraded controller | Magnetic bamboo cutting board, superior smoke management | Portable design, lightweight for easy transport |
| Performance in Cold Weather | Moderate | Moderate | Better performance retains heat well | Superior performance due to insulation | Moderate |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years |
| Target User | Families, casual grillers | Families needing more space | Serious enthusiasts, flavor-focused grilling | Dedicated outdoor cooking enthusiasts, premium users | Campers, tailgaters, small patios |
| Portability | Stationary | Stationary | Stationary | Stationary | Highly portable |
| Color Options | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black or copper |
Against Competitor Models
| Features/ Models | Traeger Pro 575 | Weber Spearwood 600 | Pit Boss 850 | Recteq 590 | Z Grills 700D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Surface | 575 sq. in. | 600 sq. in. | 850 sq. in. | 590 sq. in. | 700 sq. in. |
| Direct Flame Access | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Smoke Settings | Standard (up to 5 smoke settings) | Variable smoke settings (up to 10 settings) | Standard (typically 3 settings) | Standard (up to 6 settings) | Standard (low, medium, high) |
| App Integration | Excellent (WiFi, smart temperature control) | Basic (limited features) | Basic (compatible app, less advanced) | Basic (app for basic controls) | No app control |
| Temperature Control | Digital Pro Controller with dual LED readouts | Basic dial control with no display | Digital control with LED readout | Smart PID controller for stable temperatures | Manual dial control |
| Hopper Capacity | 18 lbs | N/A | 21 lbs | 30 lbs | 20 lbs |
| Construction | Powder-coated steel | Wood and steel (more aesthetic finish) | Steel body, durable finish | Stainless steel construction | Steel body with painted finish |
| Warranty | 3 years | 5 years | 3 years | 6 years | 3 years |
| Included Accessories | None (optional accessories available) | Compatible with various accessories (rotisserie, griddle) | Front shelf included | None (grill mats and utensils not included) | No |
| Weight | Approximately 125 lbs | Approximately 135 lbs | Approximately 150 lbs | Approximately 160 lbs | Approximately 90 lbs |
| Dimensions | 39 x 27 x 47 inches | 48 x 27 x 48 inches | 57 x 24 x 49 inches | 42 x 23 x 49 inches | 41 x 26 x 46 inches |
| Price Range | $600 - $800 | Approximately $900 | Approximately $600 | Approximately $800 | Approximately $400 |
| Build Quality | Good quality, user-friendly | Good quality with aesthetic wood accents | Good, sturdy build | Excellent build quality | Budget-friendly, good for beginners |
| Customization Options | Yes (various grilling trays & inserts) | Yes (accessories available) | Yes (supports accessories) | Limited (focuses on construction) | Limited options |
| Searing Capability | No direct sear but good indirect heat | Yes (direct flame allows good searing) | Yes (direct flame for easy searing) | No direct searing capability | No direct search capabilities |
| Portability | Wheels for easy transport | Wheels for easy transport | Wheels for easy transport | Wheels for easy transport | Wheels for easy transport |
| Temperature Range | 165°F - 500°F (smoking & grilling) | 200°F - 600°F | 180°F - 500°F | 225°F - 500°F | 180°F - 450°F |
Is the Traeger Pro 575 Still Worth It in 2025?
The competitive landscape for pellet grills has changed dramatically since the Pro 575 in 2019. With more companies entering the market and offering compelling features at competitive prices, does the Traeger Pro 575 still represent good value?
| pros | cons |
|---|---|
FAQs
1. What are the dimensions of the Traeger Pro 575, and how much cooking space does it offer?
The Traeger Pro 575 measures approximately 53″ H × 41″ W × 27″ D and weighs 124 pounds. It offers 572 square inches of total cooking space, with 418 square inches on the main cooking grate and 154 square inches on the secondary upper rack. This capacity allows you to cook approximately 24 burgers, 5 rib racks, or 4 chickens, though real-world capacity may be slightly less for larger food items.
2. How do I start my Traeger Pro 575 for the first time?
To start your Traeger Pro 575 for the first time, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Plug in the grill and turn the power switch to ON
- Fill the hopper with wood pellets
- Open the lid and turn the temperature dial to your desired setting
- Press the IGNITE button
- Keep the lid open until you see smoke (typically 5-7 minutes)
- Close the lid and allow 15-20 minutes for preheating
- Once preheated, place your food on the grill and cook according to your recipe
For subsequent uses, the process is the same, except you can skip the initial pellet priming.
3. Does the Traeger Pro 575 controller have a Super Smoke mode like higher-end models?
No, the Traeger Pro 575 does not have a dedicated Super Smoke mode that’s available on the higher-end Ironwood and Timberline series. However, you can achieve enhanced smoke flavor by cooking at the lowest temperature setting (165°F) for the first 1-2 hours of your cook before raising to your target cooking temperature. The D2 Direct Drive controller on the Pro 575 still provides excellent smoke production for most cooking needs.
4. What’s the difference between the Traeger Pro 575 vs Pro 780?
The Traeger Pro 575 and Pro 780 are identical in terms of features, construction quality, and controller functionality. The only difference is the cooking capacity:
- Pro 575: 572 square inches total (418 main rack, 154 upper rack)
- Pro 780: 780 square inches total (570 main rack, 210 upper rack)
The Pro 780 typically costs about $200 more than the Pro 575, making the decision primarily about how much cooking space you need.
5. How does the Traeger Pro 575 compare to the older Pro 22 and Pro 34 models?
The Pro 575 represents a significant upgrade over the older Pro 22 and Pro 34 models in several ways:
- WiFi connectivity via the WiFIRE controller (older models lack WiFi)
- D2 Direct Drive controller with PID technology for better temperature management
- Brushless DC motor for improved reliability and longer lifespan
- More sophisticated user interface with LCD
- Improved hopper design with cleanout door
- Higher maximum temperature (500°F vs 450°F)
The Pro 575 offers more cooking space than the Pro 22 (572 vs 418 square inches) but less than the Pro 34 (572 vs 884 square inches).
6. What essential accessories should I consider for my Traeger Pro 575?
The most valuable accessories for the Traeger Pro 575 include:
- Folding Front Shelf – Provides essential workspace that the grill lacks by default
- Insulation Blanket – Improves efficiency in cold weather and reduces pellet consumption
- Grill Cover – Protects your investment from the elements
- Pellet Sensor – Alerts you via the app when pellet levels run low
- Additional Temperature Probes – For monitoring multiple items simultaneously
The parts list for these and other accessories is available on Traeger’s website, with most accessories being compatible across multiple Traeger models.
7. How does the Traeger Pro 575 compare to competitors like the Weber Searwood 600 and Pit Boss 850?
Compared to the Weber Searwood 600, the Pro 575:
- Has slightly less cooking area (572 vs 600 square inches)
- Lacks direct flame access for searing
- Has fewer accessory options (no rotisserie capability)
- Features a more established app ecosystem
Compared to the Pit Boss 850, the Pro 575:
- Has less cooking area (572 vs 850 square inches)
- Is typically more expensive
- Lacks a standard front shelf (sold separately)
- Features superior temperature control and WiFi functionality
- Has a better app experience
The RecTeq 590 offers similar cooking space with stainless steel construction and a longer warranty (6 years vs Traeger’s 3 years), while the Z Grill models provide a more budget-friendly option with fewer advanced features.
8. Is the Traeger Pro 575 worth the upgrade to an Ironwood 650 or Timberline 850?
The decision to upgrade from a Pro 575 to an Ironwood 650 or Timberline 850 depends on your cooking needs and budget:
Ironwood 650 advantages (approximately $500 more):
- Double-wall insulation for better temperature control
- Downdraft exhaust system for improved smoke circulation
- Super Smoke mode for enhanced flavor
- Better performance in cold weather
Timberline 850 advantages (approximately $800+ more):
- Fully insulated construction for maximum efficiency
- Three tiers of stainless steel grates
- Additional features like a magnetic bamboo cutting board
- Superior smoke management system
For most casual users, the Pro 575 provides excellent performance without the premium price. The upgrades make the most sense for serious enthusiasts, those who cook in cold weather frequently, or those seeking maximum smoke flavor.
9. How difficult is the maintenance of a Traeger Pro 575?
Maintaining a Traeger Pro 575 requires regular but straightforward procedures:
- After each cook: Empty the grease bucket
- Every 3-5 cooks: Replace the aluminum foil on the drip tray
- Every 5-10 cooks: Vacuum ash from the firepot
- Seasonally: Deep clean interior surfaces
The grill design makes the cleaning process reasonably accessible, with the drip tray system directing most cooking residue away from critical components. The parts list for replacement items is readily available if components need replacement over time.
10. Can the Traeger Pro 575 be used year-round, including in cold weather?
Yes, the Traeger Pro 575 can be used year-round, though it performs best in moderate weather conditions. For cold-weather use, Traeger offers an insulation blanket specifically designed for the Pro 575’s dimensions. This accessory helps maintain cooking temperatures and reduces pellet consumption when outdoor temperatures drop below 35°F.
While the Pro 575 lacks the double-wall insulation of the Ironwood and Timberline series, adding an insulation blanket makes it a viable option for year-round cooking in most climates. Users in extremely cold regions who frequently cook outdoors in winter might consider the better-insulated models for optimal performance.
Conclusion
The Traeger Pro 575 pellet grill stands as a testament to why Traeger remains the leading name in pellet grilling. While not the newest or most feature-laden option on the market in 2025, it continues to deliver on the core promise of pellet grilling: delicious food with minimal effort.
What sets the Pro 575 apart is the complete ecosystem around it—from the intuitive app to the readily available accessories and support. For those who value reliability and ease of use over cutting-edge features, the Traeger Pro 575 remains an excellent choice that will likely provide years of delicious outdoor cooking experiences.
Learn More About Grilling
If you want to learn more about grilling, check out these other helpful resources!
