Traeger Wireless Probe vs. MEATER: Which Should You Buy?

Traeger has released a branded version of the MEATER probe (often called the Traeger x MEATER). While the hardware is physically identical to the standard MEATER probe, the software and connectivity are completely different.

Here is the breakdown of why the standard MEATER is likely the better option:

1. The "Ecosystem Lock" The most important difference is that these probes are software-locked to their specific apps. They are not interchangeable.

• Traeger x MEATER Probe:

  • Works with: Traeger Touchscreen Grills (Ironwood, Timberline, and the new Woodridge Series) and the Traeger App.

  • Does NOT work with: The standalone MEATER App.

• Standard MEATER Probe:

  • Works with: The MEATER App (on your phone/tablet).

  • Does NOT work with: The Traeger Grill dashboard or the Traeger App directly.

2. Functionality

• Traeger Probe: If you buy the Traeger version, you can view your meat temps directly on the grill's touchscreen display. However, you are limited to using it only with your Traeger grill.

• Standard MEATER: While it won't display the temperature on your grill's screen, the MEATER App provides excellent data, including internal and ambient temperatures, estimated cook times, and graphs.

As you noted, the Standard MEATER is the more versatile choice.

Because the standard probe connects to your phone rather than the grill, you can use it for any style of cooking—inside in your kitchen oven, on a rotisserie, or even on a different BBQ. If you buy the Traeger version, you lose the ability to use that expensive probe effectively when you aren't using the smoker.