You’re ready to take your outdoor cooking to the next level, but standing in the grill aisle, you feel the familiar overwhelm. You want that authentic wood-fired flavor without babysitting a fire, and you need something that can handle a weeknight chicken dinner and a weekend brisket for the neighbors. That’s exactly where a Traeger wood pellet grill comes in. In this guide, we’ll zero in on two of Traeger’s most popular models, the Ironwood 885 and the Woodridge, to help you decide which one fits your grilling style and your patio.
Whether you’re a backyard beginner or a seasoned pitmaster, we’ve evaluated these smokers on real-world usability, temperature control, and overall cooking flexibility. We’ll walk you through their shared DNA, their key differences, and what each one excels at. By the end, you’ll know exactly which Traeger deserves a spot on your deck. And if you’re exploring other outdoor cooking gear, you might also enjoy our guide to outdoor flat top grills for more backyard inspiration.
Pros
- WiFi app control allows remote monitoring and adjustment for true set-and-forget convenience
- Large 860 sq in cooking area accommodates big batches for parties and meal prep
- Six cooking methods in one pellet grill provide exceptional versatility
- EZ-Clean grease and ash keg makes post-cook cleanup fast and simple
- Traeger's P.A.L. accessory system lets you customize the grill to fit your needs
Cons
- No built-in side shelf or storage included, accessories like shelves and hooks must be purchased separately
- Pellet grills require a power source and ongoing pellet refills, which may be less familiar to charcoal or gas users
- Initial learning curve to master pellet cooking and set up the WiFi app
The Traeger Woodridge is a feature-packed wood pellet grill and smoker designed for backyard cooks who crave authentic wood-fired flavor with modern convenience. With a generous 860 square inches of cooking space and WiFi connectivity, it targets families and entertainers who need to cook large meals while staying in control from anywhere.
At its core, the Woodridge delivers true 6-in-1 versatility: grilling, smoking, baking, roasting, braising, and BBQ. The precise temperature control, ranging from 180 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, ensures consistent heat whether you are slow-smoking a pork butt or searing steaks. The Traeger App lets you monitor and adjust temperatures remotely, making it incredibly easy to multitask while dinner cooks.
Build quality is solid, with a black, extra-large steel body that measures 27 by 50 by 46 inches. The EZ-Clean Grease and Ash Keg is a standout feature, collecting waste in one disposable container for quick cleanup. This is a big upgrade from traditional charcoal grills that require hours of scraping and ash removal.
One drawback is that the grill does not include essential accessories like shelves or hooks. To get the most out of the P.A.L. Pop-And-Lock system, you will need to purchase additional components separately, which adds to the overall cost. Also, pellet grills require electricity to run fans and igniters, so you cannot use the Woodridge in a blackout unless you have a backup power source.
Overall, the Traeger Woodridge is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a versatile, large-capacity pellet grill with smart controls and easy cleanup. It shines for weekend cooks, holiday feasts, and anyone looking to upgrade from gas or charcoal without sacrificing flavor.
Color: Black
Size: Extra Large
Dimensions: 27 x 50 x 46 Inches
Cooking Area: 860 square inches
Temperature Range: 180 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
Fuel Type: Wood Pellets
Connectivity: WiFi via Traeger App
Cooking Modes: Grill, Smoke, Bake, Roast, Braise, BBQ
Cleanup System: EZ-Clean Grease & Ash Keg
Customization: P.A.L. Pop-And-Lock compatible, ModiFIRE cooking surfaces (accessories sold separately)
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Traeger Smoker
Before you pull the trigger on a new pellet grill, it helps to know what separates a good smoker from a great one. Traeger has been a household name in wood-fired cooking for decades, but not all their models are created equal. Here are the key factors we recommend weighing before you buy.
Cooking Capacity and Your Crowd
Think about how many people you typically cook for. If you’re hosting a large family gathering or meal-prepping for the week, you’ll want a larger cooking surface. The Ironwood 885 offers 885 square inches of space, which fits up to 10 chickens or 9 pork butts, while the Woodridge provides 860 square inches, enough for 6 chickens or 6 pork butts. Both are generous, but the Ironwood gives you a bit more room for those big-batch cooks.
For most households, the Woodridge’s capacity is plenty. But if you regularly feed a crowd or love hosting holiday feasts, the extra space on the Ironwood might be worth the upgrade. Consider your typical gathering size and how often you cook multiple items at once.
Temperature Range and Control
Pellet grills shine when they hold a steady temperature, whether you’re smoking low and slow or searing hot. The Ironwood 885 has a range of 165 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for everything from cold-smoking cheese to getting a good sear on a steak. Its D2 controller maintains heat with impressive precision, even in colder weather, thanks to double-wall insulation.
The Woodridge offers a similar range of 180 to 500 degrees, which covers all the standard cooking techniques. Both models feature WiFIRE technology, so you can adjust the temperature and monitor your cook from your phone. If you live in a region with harsh winters, the Ironwood’s insulation gives it an edge in maintaining consistent heat.
Flavor Features and Versatility
The whole point of a pellet grill is that smoky, wood-fired taste. Traeger uses all-natural hardwood pellets, and both models deliver that classic flavor. However, the Ironwood includes a Super Smoke Mode, which pumps out extra smoke at low temperatures for a more intense, bold flavor. This is a game-changer if you’re serious about smoking brisket or ribs.
Both grills are 6-in-1 machines: they grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ. That versatility means you can use them for everything from a quick burger dinner to a slow-smoked pork shoulder. If you’re a purist who loves maximum smoke flavor, the Ironwood’s Super Smoke Mode is a standout feature.
Convenience and Cleanup
After a long cook, nobody wants to spend an hour scrubbing grates and emptying ash. The Woodridge comes with an EZ-Clean Grease & Ash Keg system that collects both grease and ash in one easy-to-empty container. This is a huge time-saver and keeps your grill ready for the next cook.
The Ironwood, on the other hand, has a standard grease management system that works well but requires a bit more attention. If easy cleanup is a priority, the Woodridge’s design is a clear win. Both grills are compatible with Traeger’s P.A.L. Pop-And-Lock accessory system, so you can add shelves, hooks, and storage bins to customize your setup.
Traeger Ironwood 885 vs Woodridge: Which One Should You Buy?
Both the Ironwood 885 and the Woodridge are excellent pellet grills, but they cater to slightly different needs. The Ironwood 885 is the more premium option, with a higher price tag, a larger cooking area, and the exclusive Super Smoke Mode. It’s built for the home cook who wants the best possible wood-fired flavor and isn’t afraid to invest in a top-tier machine.
The Woodridge, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly entry point without sacrificing the core Traeger experience. It still has WiFIRE, a solid temperature range, and that same 6-in-1 versatility. The EZ-Clean system is a thoughtful addition that makes maintenance a breeze. For most backyard cooks, the Woodridge delivers all the performance they need at a more accessible price.
If you’re torn, think about your priorities. Do you want maximum smoke flavor and extra cooking space for large gatherings? Go with the Ironwood 885. Do you value easy cleanup and a lower price point while still getting a versatile, WiFi-enabled smoker? The Woodridge is your pick. Either way, you’re getting a Traeger, which means reliable performance and that iconic wood-fired taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Traeger Ironwood and Woodridge?
The Ironwood 885 has a larger cooking surface (885 sq in vs 860 sq in), a higher temperature ceiling (500°F vs 500°F, but with a wider low range), and an exclusive Super Smoke Mode that produces more smoke flavor. The Woodridge features an easier cleanup system and a more budget-friendly price. Both offer WiFi connectivity and 6-in-1 cooking versatility.
Can you use a Traeger pellet grill for grilling and searing?
Yes, both the Ironwood 885 and Woodridge can reach temperatures up to 500°F, which is hot enough for direct grilling and searing steaks. For an even better sear, you can use a cast-iron skillet or a grill grate accessory. The pellet grill’s ability to switch from low-smoke to high-heat makes it a versatile outdoor cooker.
How do I clean a Traeger pellet grill?
Regular cleaning involves scraping the grates, emptying the ash from the firepot, and wiping down the interior. The Woodridge’s EZ-Clean Grease & Ash Keg simplifies this by collecting both grease and ash in one removable container. For the Ironwood, you’ll need to manually remove the grease tray and vacuum out any ash. Doing this after every few cooks keeps your grill performing well.
Is the Traeger app worth using?
Absolutely. The Traeger app lets you monitor and control your grill from anywhere, so you can adjust the temperature, set timers, and check the internal food probe without leaving your couch. It also offers a library of recipes and step-by-step guides. This feature is a huge convenience, especially for long smokes where you’d otherwise have to check on the grill frequently. If you’re new to pellet grilling, the app is like having a pitmaster in your pocket.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Traeger Ironwood 885 Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker and the Traeger Woodridge Wood Pellet Grill & Smoker comes down to your personal cooking style and budget. If you’re a smoke enthusiast who wants the boldest flavor and extra capacity, the Ironwood 885 is your best bet. If you prefer a more streamlined, easy-to-clean grill that still delivers fantastic results, the Woodridge is a smart choice. Both are reliable, versatile, and will elevate your outdoor cooking game for years to come.
