A question about unconnected Traegers

[Storm]

I do not yet own a Traeger grill, though I've used older ones a time or two, and I think I'd really like to have one...maybe a 780.

Here's the thing: all the talk and ads seem to be emphasizing the app, the wifi, and the software & features. I love my computer and some digital parts of my life, but I don't use a smart phone (at all) or apps to run my household stuff. My question is whether I can buy this grill and get all the basic functionality without using the software. I understand that remote control and monitoring is out, but does the grill work by itself? (turn it on, set the temp, cook the meat, etc) Or will I run into a basic function that can't be done without the thing talking to the world?

Thanks in advance for your help,
Storm

an ordinary, average, mostly analog guy

 

[magoo40]

Yes you can run the grill from the control panel, I have been doing it for years when the WIFI crapped out.

 

[RayClem]

When I first got my Traeger, I connected it to WiFi. I rarely used the app. When I upgraded my router, I never bothered to connect my Traeger. It has operated well without that connection. I rely on 3rd party thermometers to monitor the cook, so the WiFI connection to the Traeger is not that helpful.

That being saif, I suspect that those who do overnight cooks of briskets might well use the Traeger app to monitor the cook.

If you wish to upgrade the firmware on the Traeger to the latest version, you will need to connect the Traeger to WiFi so it can download the new firmware.

 

[Manannan]

My question is whether I can buy this grill and get all the basic functionality without using the software.

Like others have also alluded to you don't need the Traeger app nor have to monitor the grill remotely, I started off using the app but find it quite flaky with frequent drop outs. The most useful aspect to me was the pellet level sensor with remote monitoring but even then you get used to guesstimating when any top up is needed if at all.

I would have more of an issue managing without my third party Thermopen RFX thermometer system which requires the relevant app and remote access particularly for long and overnight cooks, even then I don't bother with the Traeger app.

However there are excellent third party thermometer alternatives available that don't need to be linked remotely, I used a 4 probe Inkbird wired system which was great albeit not for overnight cooks when I like to monitor things without the need to get out of my pit!

 

[Storm]

Thank you everyone for your kind and useful responses. Don't know when I'll take the leap (not before the Iowa winter descends) but I'm encouraged that I can run one of these with hands and electricity.

Long way from my memory as a kid in SC when my dad dug a hole in the ground and they put oak embers and a pig in chicken wire in it...

 

[katttfishh]

I have a 2 year old 780 and I can't describe how much I enjoy checking on my meat with my phone when cooking. Also the alarms for temp and timing are nice. I would never go back to non wifi.