Which is better for a big backyard party?

The Backyard Beast 1200. Its 1,220 sq. in. and 50-burger capacity roughly double the Ironwood 650's 650 sq. in. and 32 burgers.

Which one sears better?

The Backyard Beast 1200. It reaches 700°F; the Ironwood 650 tops out at 500°F.

Is the Ironwood 650 worth the extra over the Beast?

It may not be extra at all. The Ironwood 650 has sold from $480.65 to $899.99 since October 31, 2026, and the Beast's price is not shown here, so check both live. The Ironwood earns its price with WiFIRE app control and Super Smoke, not size.

Which is better for smoking low and slow?

Both smoke well. The Ironwood 650 has a dedicated Super Smoke mode and integrated smoker; the Beast relies on PID control down to 180°F and its 30 lb hopper, which means fewer refills on long cooks.

The Backyard Beast 1200 has the edge on materials: 304 stainless steel grates versus porcelain-coated steel, which can chip. Both are freestanding metal cookers that need cover and shelter from rain.

Which is easier to move and store?

The Ironwood 650. At 149 lbs and 27 in. deep it is 44 lbs lighter and much shallower than the 193 lb, 45 in. deep Beast.

recteq Backyard Beast 1200 Pellet Grill vs Traeger Ironwood 650 Pellet Grill

The Backyard Beast 1200 is the better pick for large cooks and high-heat searing: 1,220 sq. in., 50 burgers, and a 180–700°F range. The Traeger Ironwood 650 is the better pick for smaller households that want WiFIRE app control and Super Smoke in a lighter, narrower footprint. On price, the Ironwood 650 has ranged from $480.65 to $899.99 since October 31, 2026, so it can undercut the Beast by a wide margin at its low. The Beast's current price is not shown here, so compare live store prices before deciding.

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