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For 2026’s discerning grillmaster, the pellet grill debate intensifies between two standout models: the Pit Boss Navigator 850 and the Traeger Pro 22.
One offers expansive space and direct-flame access for a budget-friendly price; the other provides legendary temperature consistency and seamless integration into a premium ecosystem.
But which delivers where it counts—precision, flavor, durability, and overall value? We break down every feature, performance metric, and real-world use case to determine the definitive winner for your investment.
Pit Boss Navigator 850 Vs Traeger Pro 22: Ultimate Grill Showdown!
Discover how these two fan-favorite pellet grills stack up in power, features, and value so you can pick the perfect one for your grilling needs.
Design And Build
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 and the Traeger Pro 22 are two popular pellet grills with unique designs. Their design and build affect how easy they are to use, move, and maintain.
Understanding their size, materials, and control panels helps choose the right grill. Both models offer solid construction but differ in portability and user interface. Let’s explore these aspects to see how they compare.
Size And Portability
The size and portability of a pellet grill matter for outdoor cooking and storage. The Pit Boss Navigator 850 is larger and heavier than the Traeger Pro 22. It offers more cooking space but takes more room in your yard or patio.
- Pit Boss Navigator 850 dimensions: approximately 43″ wide, 28″ deep, and 48″ tall.
- Traeger Pro 22 dimensions: around 40″ wide, 22″ deep, and 48″ tall.
The Navigator 850 has a bigger cooking area of 850 square inches, suitable for cooking for large groups. The Pro 22 provides about 572 square inches, enough for small to medium gatherings.
| Feature | Pit Boss Navigator 850 | Traeger Pro 22 |
| Cooking Area | 850 sq. in. | 572 sq. in. |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 43″ x 28″ x 48″ | 40″ x 22″ x 48″ |
| Weight | 123 lbs | 90 lbs |
Portability is easier with the Traeger Pro 22. It weighs less and fits in smaller spaces. The Navigator 850 has two large wheels and two small caster wheels. This setup helps move it but not as easily as the Pro 22, which has bigger wheels designed for smoother transport.
- Navigator 850: heavier, needs two people to move comfortably.
- Pro 22: lighter, can be moved by one person.
Choose the Navigator 850 for larger cooking needs but expect less portability. Pick the Pro 22 for easier transport and compact storage.
Material Quality
Material quality affects durability and how well a grill handles weather and heat. Both grills use strong steel, but their finishes and parts differ.
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 uses heavy-gauge steel for the main body. This steel handles heat well and resists warping over time. Its paint is high-temperature powder coat, protecting against rust and scratches.
- Heavy steel body for long-lasting use
- Powder-coated finish protects from weather
- Strong steel grates for even heat distribution
The Traeger Pro 22 also features a steel body but with a slightly thinner gauge than the Navigator. It has a porcelain-coated grilling grate, which helps prevent food from sticking and makes cleaning easier.
- Steel body with durable finish
- Porcelain-coated grates for easy cleaning
- Weather-resistant paint for outdoor use
Both grills include insulated lids to keep heat steady during cooking. The Navigator 850’s thicker steel gives it an edge in heat retention and durability. The Pro 22’s porcelain grates make it easier to clean after use.
For heavy use and rough weather, the Navigator 850 may last longer. For easier maintenance and moderate use, the Pro 22 suits well.
Control Panel Layout
Easy control panels improve the grilling experience. The Pit Boss Navigator 850 and Traeger Pro 22 have different layouts and features.
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 has a simple digital controller. It shows temperature and lets users set it in 5-degree increments. The panel is straightforward, with buttons for power, temperature, and timer.
- Digital display with temperature readout
- Buttons for power, temperature up/down, and timer
- No Wi-Fi or app control
This setup is easy to use but basic. It fits users who want clear, direct control without extra technology.
The Traeger Pro 22 has a more advanced controller with Wi-Fi capability. It connects to the Traeger app, allowing remote temperature control. The panel shows temperature digitally and has buttons for adjusting heat and other settings.
- Wi-Fi enabled for app control
- Digital temperature display
- Buttons for power and temperature adjustment
The app lets users monitor cooking progress and adjust settings from a phone. This feature adds convenience, especially during long cooks.
Choose the Navigator 850 for a simple, no-frills panel. Pick the Pro 22 for smart control and remote access.
Cooking Performance
Comparing the Pit Boss Navigator 850 and the Traeger Pro 22 reveals key differences in cooking performance. Both offer unique strengths that affect grilling, smoking, and roasting results.
Understanding their temperature range, heat distribution, and cooking capacity helps choose the right pellet grill for your needs. These features directly impact how evenly food cooks and how much food you can prepare at once.
Temperature Range
The temperature range determines the grill’s versatility. The Pit Boss Navigator 850 covers a wider range, offering more options for different cooking styles.
- Pit Boss Navigator 850: 180°F to 650°F
- Traeger Pro 22: 180°F to 450°F
The Navigator 850’s higher max temperature allows for searing and faster cooking. It can handle both low-and-slow smoking and high-heat grilling. The Traeger Pro 22 maintains steady temperatures ideal for smoking and indirect cooking but lacks high-heat searing capability.
Both grills start low enough to smoke meats gently. The Navigator’s broader range makes it more flexible for recipes needing a quick temperature boost. The Traeger excels in consistent mid-range temps, perfect for delicate foods or slow roasts.
| Feature | Pit Boss Navigator 850 | Traeger Pro 22 |
| Minimum Temperature | 180°F | 180°F |
| Maximum Temperature | 650°F | 450°F |
| Ideal for Searing | Yes | No |
Heat Distribution
Heat distribution affects how evenly food cooks across the grill surface. Uneven heat causes hot spots or undercooked areas, which can ruin a meal.
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 uses a large cast iron cooking grid combined with a flame broiler system. This setup helps spread heat more evenly. The flame broiler allows direct flame contact for searing, improving heat concentration.
The Traeger Pro 22 features a porcelain-coated steel grill grate. It provides good heat retention and even cooking but relies on indirect heat from the pellet fire pot below. This results in gentler heat suitable for smoking but less direct flame heat.
- Pit Boss Navigator 850: Cast iron grids, flame broiler for direct heat
- Traeger Pro 22: Porcelain steel grates, indirect heat from fire pot
The Navigator’s design delivers better heat zones for grilling and searing. The Traeger offers steady, consistent heat that suits low and slow cooking styles best. Users who want to sear steaks or grill burgers might find the Navigator’s heat distribution more effective.
Cooking Capacity
Cooking capacity matters for families and gatherings. More space means cooking several items at once, saving time and effort.
| Model | Primary Cooking Area | Secondary Cooking Area | Total Cooking Space |
| Pit Boss Navigator 850 | 850 sq. in. | 250 sq. in. | 1,100 sq. in. |
| Traeger Pro 22 | 418 sq. in. | 162 sq. in. | 580 sq. in. |
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 offers nearly double the cooking space of the Traeger Pro 22. This allows cooking large cuts of meat or multiple dishes simultaneously. It suits users who cook for bigger groups or like meal prepping.
The Traeger Pro 22 fits smaller spaces and is easier to move. Its size works well for couples or small families. It is ideal for simple meals but limits cooking volume.
- Navigator 850: Large capacity, great for big meals and gatherings
- Traeger Pro 22: Compact size, fits small spaces and kitchens
Choosing the right grill depends on how much food you plan to cook regularly. The Navigator’s capacity stands out for serious outdoor cooking needs.
Features And Technology
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 and the Traeger Pro 22 are two popular pellet grills known for their advanced features and technology.
Both models offer smart designs to make grilling easier and more precise. Understanding their features and technology helps decide which one fits your needs better. This section breaks down key tech aspects like Wi-Fi connectivity, temperature control, and extra functions.
Wi-fi And App Connectivity
Both the Pit Boss Navigator 850 and Traeger Pro 22 offer Wi-Fi and app connectivity, letting you control the grill remotely. This feature adds convenience by allowing temperature adjustments and monitoring from a smartphone.
Traeger Pro 22 uses the Traeger app, which includes:
- Real-time temperature monitoring
- Preset cooking programs
- Step-by-step recipes
- Notifications for food and grill status
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 supports Pit Boss’s own app, offering:
- Remote temperature control
- Customizable cooking settings
- Alerts and timers
- Access to cooking guides
Both apps improve grill management but vary slightly in interface and features. The table below compares their connectivity features:
| Feature | Pit Boss Navigator 850 | Traeger Pro 22 |
| Wi-Fi Range | Up to 150 ft | Up to 200 ft |
| App Compatibility | iOS and Android | iOS and Android |
| Preset Recipes | Yes | Yes |
| Real-time Alerts | Yes | Yes |
In summary, both grills provide solid app connectivity, but Traeger offers a slightly longer Wi-Fi range. These features make remote grilling simple and effective.
Temperature Control Systems
Precise temperature control is essential for good grilling results. Both grills have advanced systems to maintain steady heat.
The Traeger Pro 22 uses a digital controller with a temperature range from 180°F to 450°F. It adjusts pellet feed and fan speed to keep the set temperature steady.
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 features a similar digital control system but with a slightly wider temperature range, from 180°F up to 500°F. This allows for more flexibility, especially for high-heat cooking.
Here is a comparison of their temperature control features:
| Feature | Pit Boss Navigator 850 | Traeger Pro 22 |
| Temperature Range | 180°F – 500°F | 180°F – 450°F |
| Control Type | Digital LED controller | Digital controller |
| Temperature Accuracy | ±10°F | ±10°F |
| Fan Speed Adjustment | Yes | Yes |
Both grills keep temperature stable by controlling pellet feed and airflow automatically. The Pit Boss’s higher max temperature is useful for searing. The digital displays on both make it easy to monitor and adjust heat quickly.
Additional Functionalities
Extra features add value and improve the overall grilling experience on both models. These include cooking space, construction, and ease of cleaning.
Pit Boss Navigator 850 offers:
- 850 sq. inches of cooking area
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Removable ash pan for easy cleaning
- Large hopper capacity (20 lbs) for long cooking sessions
- Porcelain-coated grill grates for durability
Traeger Pro 22 features:
- 572 sq. inches of cooking space
- Sturdy steel body with a powder-coated finish
- Grease management system for cleaner cooking
- 18 lbs pellet hopper capacity
- Porcelain grill grates for easy cleaning
Both grills include easy-to-use hopper systems and durable designs. The larger cooking area on the Pit Boss suits bigger gatherings. Traeger’s grease system helps reduce flare-ups and cleanup time.
Additional helpful features include:
- Folding front shelf on Traeger for workspace
- Side shelves on Pit Boss for tools and prep
- Automatic startup and shutdown sequences
- Multi-position smoke settings for flavor control
These functionalities improve convenience and cooking flexibility. Both grills offer user-friendly designs that save time and effort.
Fuel And Pellet Options
Choosing between the Pit Boss Navigator 850 and the Traeger Pro 22 means understanding their fuel and pellet options. This factor affects cooking time, flavor, and convenience.
Both grills use wood pellets as fuel, but their hopper sizes, pellet compatibility, and fuel efficiency vary. These differences impact how long you can grill without refilling and the types of pellets you can use for different flavors. Knowing these details helps pick the right grill for your needs.
Pellet Hopper Size
The hopper size determines how many wood pellets the grill can hold. A larger hopper means less frequent refills, ideal for long cooking sessions.
Pit Boss Navigator 850 has a hopper capacity of 18 pounds. This size supports extended grilling without interruption. Great for slow cooking and smoking large cuts of meat.
Traeger Pro 22 features a smaller hopper with a capacity of 20 pounds. This size also suits long cooks but may require slightly more frequent refills during very long sessions.
| Grill Model | Hopper Size (pounds) | Benefits |
| Pit Boss Navigator 850 | 18 | Long cooking time, fewer refills |
| Traeger Pro 22 | 20 | Good for long cooks, easy to refill |
Both hoppers are large enough for most recipes. The 20-pound hopper on the Traeger Pro 22 offers a slight edge for very long cooks.
Compatible Pellet Types
Wood pellets give food unique flavors. Each grill works best with certain pellet types.
- Pit Boss Navigator 850 supports many pellet types like:
- Hickory
- Mesquite
- Apple
- Cherry
- Maple
- Traeger Pro 22 also accepts multiple pellets, including:
- Hickory
- Oak
- Mesquite
- Apple
- Pecan
Both grills use 100% natural hardwood pellets. Avoid pellets with fillers or additives to protect the grill and keep food taste pure.
Choosing pellet types affects smoke flavor. For example:
- Hickory: Strong, smoky taste, good for beef and pork.
- Apple and Cherry: Mild and sweet, great for poultry and fish.
- Mesquite: Bold and earthy, best for red meats.
Both grills allow experimenting with different pellet flavors. The choice depends on personal taste and the food you grill.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency shows how well a grill uses pellets to keep temperature stable. It affects how many pellets you need per cooking session.
Pit Boss Navigator 850 is known for its efficient pellet use. It maintains heat well, using pellets slowly during long cooks.
Traeger Pro 22 also offers good fuel efficiency thanks to its digital temperature control system. It adjusts pellet feeding to save fuel.
| Grill Model | Pellet Use Rate | Efficiency Notes |
| Pit Boss Navigator 850 | About 1.2 lbs/hr | Good for long cooks, steady temperature |
| Traeger Pro 22 | About 1.0 lbs/hr | Precise control saves pellets |
Fuel efficiency depends on cooking temperature and pellet type. Lower temps use fewer pellets. Both grills provide efficient fuel use, but Traeger Pro 22 may save slightly more pellets during low-and-slow cooking.
Efficient pellet use reduces costs and ensures longer cooking without interruptions.
Ease Of Use And Maintenance
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 and Traeger Pro 22 are popular pellet grills known for their great cooking results. Ease of use and maintenance is key for many grill owners. Both models offer different features and designs that affect how simple they are to set up, clean, and operate. Understanding these differences helps choose the grill that fits daily use and care best.
Assembly And Setup
Setting up the Pit Boss Navigator 850 and Traeger Pro 22 takes some time but varies in complexity. The Traeger Pro 22 comes with detailed instructions and fewer parts. Most users can assemble it within 1 to 2 hours. The process includes:
- Attaching legs and wheels
- Mounting the hopper and firepot
- Connecting the controller
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 is larger and heavier. Assembly may take 2 to 3 hours. It includes similar steps but requires more effort due to its size and extra components. Some parts are heavier and need two people to lift safely.
| Feature | Pit Boss Navigator 850 | Traeger Pro 22 |
| Assembly Time | 2-3 hours | 1-2 hours |
| Parts Complexity | Moderate to High | Low to Moderate |
| Weight | Heavy, may need 2 people | Lighter, can be done solo |
Both grills require a flat, stable surface for setup and access to power. The Traeger Pro 22’s simpler design suits beginners better. Pit Boss may suit those comfortable with larger equipment.
Cleaning Process
Cleaning is essential for both grills to perform well and last long. The Traeger Pro 22 has a straightforward cleaning routine thanks to its grease management system. Key steps include:
- Removing and emptying the drip tray
- Brushing the grill grates
- Vacuuming ash from the firepot
- Wiping down the exterior
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 uses a similar method but with a larger drip pan and firepot. Cleaning may take more time because of its size. Regular ash removal is important to avoid clogs.
| Cleaning Step | Traeger Pro 22 | Pit Boss Navigator 850 |
| Drip Tray | Easy to remove and clean | Larger, requires more effort |
| Grill Grates | Brushable with included tool | Same process, larger area |
| Ash Removal | Vacuum or scoop out | Same but more volume |
Both grills benefit from weekly cleaning during heavy use. The Traeger Pro 22’s smaller size makes maintenance quicker for casual users.
User-friendly Aspects
Both grills focus on ease of use but differ in controls and features. The Traeger Pro 22 offers a digital controller with WiFIRE technology. This allows users to:
- Set and adjust temperature remotely via an app
- Receive alerts about cooking progress
- Access preset cooking programs
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 uses a digital control board with an LED display. It allows precise temperature control but lacks remote access. This suits users who prefer manual control.
Other user-friendly features include:
- Traeger Pro 22: Compact design, easy to move, simple hopper refill
- Pit Boss Navigator 850: Larger cooking area, sturdy build, side shelves for prep
Both grills have safety features like auto shut-off and consistent pellet feeding. User manuals are clear and include troubleshooting tips.
Price And Warranty
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 and Traeger Pro 22 are popular pellet grills with loyal followings. Understanding their price and warranty details helps buyers choose the best fit. Both models offer quality, but costs and protection plans differ. This section breaks down these two key factors to guide your decision.
Cost Comparison
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 and Traeger Pro 22 come at different price points, reflecting their features and brand positioning. Pricing can vary by retailer and region, but a general comparison highlights their cost differences.
| Model | Average Price (USD) | Key Price Factors |
| Pit Boss Navigator 850 | $650 – $750 | Large cooking area, sturdy build, basic digital controls |
| Traeger Pro 22 | $900 – $1,000 | Advanced temperature control, Wi-Fi capability, refined design |
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 is generally more affordable. It suits budget-conscious grillers wanting good space and function. The Traeger Pro 22 costs more but offers smart tech and a smoother finish.
- Pit Boss: Lower price, larger cooking area.
- Traeger: Higher price, added convenience features.
Warranty Coverage
Warranty protects your purchase and shows how much a brand trusts its product. Both grills include warranties, but their terms differ.
| Model | Warranty Length | What It Covers |
| Pit Boss Navigator 850 | 3 years | Parts and labor for defects in materials and workmanship |
| Traeger Pro 22 | 3 years | Parts and labor, including electronic components |
Both offer a 3-year limited warranty. The Traeger tends to cover electronic parts more explicitly, reflecting its tech focus. Pit Boss warranty is solid but may require extra attention on digital parts.
- Pit Boss: Covers core components, check digital parts terms.
- Traeger: Strong electronics coverage, clear warranty policies.
Value For Money
Value depends on price, features, and warranty combined. The Pit Boss Navigator 850 delivers great cooking space and reliable performance at a lower price. It suits users who want solid grilling without extra tech.
The Traeger Pro 22 costs more but adds Wi-Fi control and a sleek design. These features improve ease of use and precision. Its warranty supports these extras well.
Consider these points:
- Budget: Choose Pit Boss to save upfront.
- Tech: Pick Traeger for smart grilling features.
- Warranty: Both offer good coverage, but Traeger is clearer on electronics.
For many, the Pit Boss offers the best bang for the buck. For those valuing convenience and connectivity, the Traeger justifies its price.
Customer Feedback
This feedback helps potential users decide which grill suits their needs better. Both grills have loyal followers, but they also show some drawbacks. Understanding these opinions highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each model.
Positive Reviews
Many users praise the Pit Boss Navigator 850 for its spacious cooking area and strong heat output. Customers enjoy cooking large meals without worrying about space. The grill heats up quickly, which saves time during busy days. Users mention the digital control board as easy to use. The sturdy build feels solid and durable.
- Large cooking area: Great for family gatherings and parties.
- Fast heating: Ready to cook in a short time.
- Easy temperature control: Digital controls make grilling simple.
- Good value: Affordable price for the features offered.
On the other hand, the Traeger Pro 22 gets high marks for consistent temperature control and excellent smoke flavor. Users love the Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows remote control from a smartphone. The build quality is praised, especially the compact size that fits small spaces well.
| Feature | Pit Boss Navigator 850 | Traeger Pro 22 |
| Cooking Area | 850 sq. in. | 572 sq. in. |
| Temperature Control | Digital control board | Wi-Fi enabled digital control |
| Build Quality | Heavy-duty steel | Durable steel with powder coat |
| Additional Features | Large hopper, easy ash removal | Smart app integration, easy cleanup |
Common Complaints
Some users report issues with the Pit Boss Navigator 850 regarding temperature fluctuations. It can be tricky to maintain steady heat during long cooks. A few customers find the hopper capacity smaller than expected, requiring frequent refills. The assembly instructions may confuse beginners, leading to longer setup times.
- Temperature swings: Heat control can be inconsistent.
- Hopper size: Needs refilling for extended cooking.
- Assembly: Instructions are not clear for some users.
The Traeger Pro 22 gets complaints about the Wi-Fi connection dropping, which frustrates some owners. The smaller cooking surface limits large meal preparation. Some users mention the pellet consumption as higher compared to other grills. Customer service response times vary, causing delays in issue resolution.
- Wi-Fi issues: Connection can be unstable at times.
- Cooking space: Smaller than some competitors.
- Pellet use: Uses more pellets for longer cooks.
- Customer support: Mixed experiences with service speed.
Overall Satisfaction
Both grills receive good overall satisfaction scores. Users appreciate their unique strengths and accept minor flaws. The Pit Boss Navigator 850 satisfies those needing large cooking capacity and strong heat. Its value for price is a big plus for many buyers.
The Traeger Pro 22 appeals to tech-savvy grillers who want smart features and consistent smoke flavor. Its compact design suits small patios and backyards well. Despite some connectivity issues, the grill earns loyalty for ease of use and flavor.
| Aspect | Pit Boss Navigator 850 | Traeger Pro 22 |
| User Satisfaction | High for value and space | High for technology and flavor |
| Reliability | Good, some heat control issues | Good, occasional Wi-Fi drops |
| Ease of Use | Simple controls, tricky assembly | Easy controls, app integration |
Users recommend checking what features matter most before choosing. Both grills deliver solid performance and enjoyment for outdoor cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Main Differences Between Pit Boss Navigator 850 And Traeger Pro 22?
The Pit Boss Navigator 850 offers larger cooking space and more temperature range. Traeger Pro 22 is compact and easier to use. Both provide excellent pellet grilling but differ in size, features, and price points.
Which Pellet Grill Heats Up Faster, Pit Boss Or Traeger Pro 22?
Traeger Pro 22 generally heats up faster due to its efficient pellet delivery system. Pit Boss Navigator 850 takes slightly longer but offers more consistent temperature control.
Is The Cooking Capacity Better In Pit Boss Navigator 850?
Yes, the Pit Boss Navigator 850 has a larger cooking area, ideal for big gatherings. It offers 850 square inches compared to Traeger Pro 22’s 418 square inches.
Which Grill Is More User-friendly For Beginners?
Traeger Pro 22 is more beginner-friendly with its simple controls and app connectivity. Pit Boss Navigator 850 suits users who prefer more control and larger cooking space.
Conclusion
Both the Pit Boss Navigator 850 and Traeger Pro 22 offer strong features for grilling. The Navigator 850 has a larger cooking area. The Pro 22 is easier to move and store. Both grills provide good temperature control and flavor.
Choose based on your space and cooking needs. Either one will help you enjoy tasty meals outdoors. A smart pick depends on your style and budget. Happy grilling!