Traeger Ironwood 885 review

The Traeger Ironwood 885 is a well-regarded pellet grill that offers a blend of traditional barbecue flavor with modern convenience, thanks to its use of wood pellets and advanced technology. With 885 square inches of cooking space, it accommodates large meals, making it suitable for both family dinners and larger gatherings. Key features include WiFIRE technology for remote control via a smartphone app, a D2 Controller for precise temperature management, and a pellet sensor to alert you when fuel is low. The grill also features Super Smoke Mode for enhanced flavor and TurboTemp for quick heating.

While the grill is praised for its performance and robust construction, some users find the price high, and the reliance on electricity may not suit everyone. The assembly is straightforward, though it can be time-consuming, and its size makes it less portable. Compared to competitors like the Camp Chef Woodwind WiFi 36 and Rec Tec RT-700, the Ironwood 885 stands out for its consistent performance and advanced features, despite being pricier.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Traeger Ironwood XL or Traeger Grills Pro 780 or Traeger Ironwood.

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Pellet barbecues have revolutionized the way we grill, offering a blend of flavor, convenience, and precision. The Traeger Ironwood 885 stands out as a popular choice for both backyard enthusiasts and seasoned grill masters. Combining innovative technology with traditional barbecue methods, this grill promises to elevate your outdoor cooking experience.

At its core, the Traeger Ironwood 885 uses wood pellets to infuse your food with a rich, smoky flavor that's hard to achieve with other types of grills. But what sets it apart from the crowd is its advanced features that cater to both novice and expert users. With a generous cooking space of 885 square inches, this grill can handle everything from a family dinner to a neighborhood feast.

However, no product is without its quirks. Some users might find the price tag a bit steep, and the reliance on electricity for its digital controls may not appeal to everyone. Still, for those who value precision and ease of use, this grill offers a compelling package.

The Traeger Ironwood 885 is packed with features that make it a standout choice for barbecue enthusiasts. Let's dive into what makes this pellet grill a top contender in the outdoor cooking arena.

WiFIRE Technology

WiFIRE technology allows you to control the grill from virtually anywhere using the Traeger app on your smartphone. You can adjust the temperature, set timers, and even monitor the cooking progress without needing to be right next to the grill. It’s like having a remote control for your barbecue!

Advanced D2 Controller

The grill features the Ironwood D2 Controller, which ensures consistent temperature control. This is essential for slow-cooking meats to perfection. The grill maintains the heat within a narrow range, so your food cooks evenly every time.

Capacity and Versatility

With a generous 885 square inches of cooking space, you can easily cook for a crowd. Whether you're smoking a brisket or grilling burgers, this grill has plenty of room to accommodate large meals. The versatility of the grill is further enhanced by the ability to roast, bake, and BBQ, making it a true multi-tasker.

Pellet Sensor

The pellet sensor is a handy feature that lets you know when your pellets are running low. It sends notifications to your phone, so you won't be caught off guard mid-cook.

Super Smoke Mode and TurboTemp

The Super Smoke Mode adds an extra burst of smokiness to your dishes, perfect for those who love that deep, smoky flavor. Meanwhile, TurboTemp helps the grill reach the desired temperature faster, which is great for cutting down on preheat time.

Durable Construction

Constructed with high-quality materials, the Ironwood 885 is built to last. Its sturdy design can withstand the elements, although some users have mentioned the need for additional weather protection for extended longevity.

The Traeger Ironwood 885 packs a punch with its array of features, making it a versatile and reliable choice for anyone serious about their grilling game. While there are a few minor areas for improvement, the overall package is hard to beat.

The design and build quality of a pellet barbecue can make or break your grilling experience. The Traeger Ironwood 885 stands out with its robust construction and thoughtful design elements. Made from durable steel, this grill is built to withstand the elements and provide long-lasting performance. Its powder-coated finish not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also adds an extra layer of protection against rust and wear.

One of the key highlights is the double-wall steel interior, which helps in maintaining consistent heat, an essential factor for achieving that perfect smoky flavor. The grill's solid build is complemented by its sturdy legs and all-terrain wheels, making it easy to move around your backyard or patio despite its hefty size. 

The grill's design also includes a spacious cooking chamber that can comfortably accommodate a large number of burgers, ribs, or even a whole turkey. With 885 square inches of cooking space, you won't have to worry about running out of room when hosting a barbecue party. The integrated meat probe and magnetic cutting board on the side add to the convenience, ensuring everything you need is within arm's reach. While the Ironwood 885 excels in many areas, it does have a few drawbacks. The hopper, although sizeable, can be a bit tricky to clean due to its design. Some users have also noted that the grease management system could be more efficient, as it requires regular maintenance to prevent clogs.

Overall, the Traeger Ironwood 885's design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, making it a great addition to any outdoor cooking setup. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a weekend griller, this pellet barbecue is sure to impress with its solid build and thoughtful features.

The performance of the Traeger Ironwood 885 is where it truly shines, making it a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts. This pellet grill boasts an advanced temperature control system that consistently delivers precise cooking results. With a temperature range of 165°F to 500°F, you can effortlessly achieve anything from low-and-slow smoking to high-heat searing.

The D2 Direct Drive technology is a standout feature, offering a powerful motor and variable speed fan that ensures even heat distribution. This means your food cooks uniformly, with no annoying hot spots. The grill maintains temperature within a narrow range, which is crucial for achieving those perfectly smoked ribs or a juicy brisket.

One of the key benefits is the inclusion of the WiFIRE technology, allowing you to control your grill remotely via a smartphone app. This means you can monitor and adjust the temperature without being tethered to the grill, giving you more freedom to entertain guests or simply relax. However, some users have noted that the app can occasionally be glitchy, requiring a restart to sync properly with the grill.

Another important aspect is the TurboTemp feature, which helps the grill recover its temperature quickly after opening the lid, saving you time and ensuring your cook remains on track.

While the Ironwood 885 performs admirably, it's worth mentioning that it can be a bit slow to reach higher temperatures compared to some gas grills. This might be a minor inconvenience if you're in a hurry, but the trade-off is the rich, smoky flavor that pellet grills are known for.

Overall, the performance and temperature control of this pellet barbecue make it a worthy investment for anyone serious about outdoor cooking. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, the Ironwood 885's reliable and efficient cooking capabilities will likely impress you.

When it comes to ease of use, the Traeger Ironwood 885 is designed with the user in mind. Setting up this pellet barbecue doesn't require extensive technical knowledge, but having a helper can make the process smoother. The assembly instructions are clear, and most necessary tools are included in the box. However, a power drill might save you some time and effort, especially when attaching the legs.

Once assembled, the grill's user-friendly interface is a breeze to navigate. The digital controller is intuitive, with a simple interface that lets you set your desired temperature with precision. If you’re new to pellet grills, the learning curve is minimal, and the experience is quite straightforward. 

One of the standout features is the WiFIRE technology, which allows you to control and monitor the grill remotely using a smartphone app. Whether you're checking the temperature or adjusting settings, the app makes it possible to do it all without being glued to the grill. This is perfect for multitaskers who like to entertain while cooking. On the downside, the grill's size and weight make it a bit cumbersome to move around, so once it's in place, you might want to keep it there.

Additionally, the initial setup can take a bit of time, especially if you're not used to assembling large appliances. But once it's up and running, the ease of use is undeniable. In summary, the Traeger Ironwood 885 offers a user-friendly experience with its advanced technology and simple operation, though initial assembly can be a bit of a workout.

When you unbox the Traeger Ironwood 885, you'll find everything you need to get started with your pellet barbecuing adventures. Here's what you can expect:

• Main Grill Unit: The main body of the grill, featuring sturdy construction and robust design, though it's not fully assembled as it requires leg installation.
• Pellet Hopper: A generously sized hopper to hold your wood pellets, ensuring you have enough fuel for those long smoking sessions.
• Grill Grates: Heavy-duty, porcelain-coated grill grates that offer excellent heat retention and easy cleaning.
• Drip Tray: This handy tray catches grease and drippings, making cleanup a breeze.
• Heat Baffle: Ensures even heat distribution across the cooking surface, preventing hot spots.
• Chimney Cap: Helps regulate smoke and heat, crucial for achieving that perfect smoky flavor.
• Wheels and Casters: For easy maneuverability, allowing you to position the grill wherever you need it.
• Assembly Tools: Basic tools that might come in handy during assembly, although some users prefer to use their own for convenience.
• User Manual: A comprehensive guide that walks you through setup, usage, and maintenance. It's straightforward, but a bit more detail on troubleshooting could be helpful.

One thing to note is that the packaging could be a bit more eco-friendly. While everything is well-protected during shipping, there's a fair amount of plastic involved. Overall, the unboxing experience is pretty straightforward and gets you ready to grill in no time

Comparing the Traeger Ironwood 885 to its competitors is like lining up a heavyweight in the pellet barbecue ring. This grill is often put head-to-head with models like the Camp Chef Woodwind WiFi 36 and the Rec Tec RT-700, both of which offer their own unique perks.

Performance and Features

The Camp Chef Woodwind WiFi 36 is known for its versatile cooking options, thanks to its Slide and Grill feature, which allows for direct flame cooking. It also boasts a similar WiFi connectivity for remote control, which is a major plus for tech-savvy grillers. However, the Ironwood 885's D2 Direct Drive and TurboTemp technologies tend to offer faster heating and more consistent temperatures, making it a bit more reliable for those long, slow cooks. Meanwhile, the Rec Tec RT-700 is another formidable contender in the market. It shines with its stainless steel build and offers a larger cooking area, which can be a deciding factor for those who regularly host large gatherings. Although the RT-700 often gets praise for its durable construction, it doesn't quite match the Ironwood 885's Super Smoke Mode when it comes to infusing that smoky flavor.

Price and Value

When it comes to price, the Ironwood 885 tends to be on the higher end of the scale. The Camp Chef Woodwind usually offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing too much on features. That said, the Ironwood 885’s quality build and advanced tech like the WiFIRE technology often justify the extra cost for those who prioritize cutting-edge features and robust performance.

Ease of Use

Assembly and ease of use are other considerations where the Ironwood 885 stands out. Its straightforward setup and user-friendly interface make it appealing to both barbecue beginners and seasoned pros. While the Camp Chef and Rec Tec models aren't particularly difficult to assemble, some users report that the Ironwood's instructions and design make the process a bit smoother.

• Camp Chef Woodwind WiFi 36: Great for direct flame cooking, more budget-friendly.
• Rec Tec RT-700: Offers a larger cooking space and durable build.
• Traeger Ironwood 885: Features advanced tech for consistent performance, albeit at a higher price.

In conclusion, while each grill has its strengths, the choice often boils down to personal preferences and specific needs. Whether you prioritize technology, cooking space, or price, there's a pellet barbecue out there that's just right for you.

In conclusion, the Traeger Ironwood 885 is a solid pick for anyone serious about grilling. Its versatility and consistency in delivering delicious smoky flavors make it a top choice among pellet barbecues. The standout feature of this grill is undoubtedly its WiFIRE technology, allowing you to control and monitor your cook from anywhere. This is especially handy for those who like to multitask while preparing meals.

However, it's worth mentioning that this barbecue isn't the most budget-friendly option out there. If you're looking for a more economical choice, you might want to explore other models. The initial setup can also be a bit of a challenge for those not used to assembling larger grills, but once it's up and running, it's smooth sailing.

Overall, if you're willing to invest in a high-quality grill that offers both convenience and performance, the Ironwood 885 is a fantastic option. It's perfect for both seasoned grill masters and those just starting to explore the joys of outdoor cooking. Just be prepared for a bit of an upfront investment, both in terms of cost and setup time.

Video by: Jenna Passaro | Home Cooking @sipbitego

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