Last Updated
First Published
Two pellet grills aimed at the budget-portable buyer. Traeger Tailgater folds up tight for tailgates and camping. Pit Boss Navigator 550 isn't truly portable but offers more cooking area at the same price. Which one fits your life?
Quick Verdict
Buy the Traeger Tailgater ($449) if you actually need portability for tailgates, camping, or small patios. Buy the Pit Boss Navigator 550 ($499) if you want more cooking area and don't need to move it.
The Contenders
Traeger Tailgater
$449
Tailgaters and campers who need a folding portable pellet grill that fits in a trunk
Check PricePit Boss Navigator 550
$499
Patio cooks who want more cooking area and don't need true portability
Check PriceCategory Breakdown
Portability
Winner: TraegerTraeger wins decisively. Folding legs and 62 lbs make it actually portable. The Pit Boss is too big and heavy to move regularly.
Cooking Area
Winner: Pit BossPit Boss wins decisively. 540 sq in vs the Tailgater's 300 sq in. Nearly twice the food capacity.
App & Smart Features
Winner: Pit BossPit Boss wins. WiFi, app monitoring, and meat probes included. The Tailgater is dial-only with no smart features.
Build Quality
Winner: TieTie. Both use comparable steel construction. Neither is premium but both will last 5-7 years with care.
Value
Winner: Pit BossPit Boss wins. More grill, more features, only $50 more. Unless portability is essential, Pit Boss is the smarter buy.
Final Verdict
Buy the Traeger Tailgater if you genuinely need to move your grill regularly. Buy the Pit Boss Navigator 550 if it's staying on the patio.
Buying Advice
Be honest about how often you'll actually move the grill. Most people who buy 'portable' grills move them twice. If that's you, get the Navigator and enjoy the extra space.
