In 2014 Traeger introduced their PRO Series, upgraded versions of their Select, Lil’Tex and Texas pellet smokers. What the new PRO smokers have that other Traegers don’t is Traeger’s logo stamped into the lid, a choice of colors, dual meat probes integrated into the digital controller, an additional upper grill shelf, and a hopper clean out door that lets you empty the hopper to change from one type wood pellet to another.
The Texas PRO is one of Traeger’s largest residential pellet smokers. With 646 square inches of primary cook surface. Although it has an upgraded digital controller, it is still an older style notched dial control like those made by Ortech. Not bad, but once you get into this price range some competitors, like REC TEC, feature more advanced touchpad controls that work better. Of course, having the new dual meat temp capability helps. But there is no way around it, these notched dial controllers are getting long in the tooth.
Traeger often offers deals throughout the year. MSRPs are identical on traditional and PRO smokers. However, Traeger is trying to stick with the sticker price on their new PROs. They are also currently restricting sales to dealers and not going direct to the consumer as with older models.
Traeger pioneered and popularized BBQ pellet smokers and remains the best known brand since it is in wide distribution. The consensus is that Traegers are reasonably well built, but some buyers complain that since manufacturing moved to China quality has dropped, especially on entry level models.
Texas PRO is offered in rustic bronze and metallic blue. All Traegers have porcelain enamel steel cooking grates.
