Traeger Ironwood vs Ironwood 885: Which Should You Choose? (November 2026)
Choose the redesigned Ironwood for its newer feature set, or the Ironwood 885 if you need its larger cooking area. Compare the exact model year and dimensions before you decide, since the 885 is an older, larger numbered model.
On this page (7 sections)
- Traeger Ironwood vs Ironwood 885: Which Should You Choose?
- Traeger Ironwood vs Ironwood 885: what is the main difference?
- Which Ironwood fits your cooking needs?
- How should you compare size and cooking capacity?
- What changes between the older and redesigned grills?
- Which accessories fit the Ironwood 885?
- How do you decide between the Ironwood and Ironwood 885?
Traeger Ironwood vs Ironwood 885: Which Should You Choose?
Choose the redesigned Traeger Ironwood for its newer feature set, or the older Ironwood 885 if you need its larger cooking area. The Ironwood 885 is a previous, larger numbered model, so compare the exact generation, dimensions and features before you buy.
The shared name can make these grills seem like simple size options. They represent different generations, and the right choice depends on whether you value the newer design or the 885's larger format.
Traeger Ironwood vs Ironwood 885: what is the main difference?
The redesigned Ironwood is the newer generation; the Ironwood 885 is an older, larger numbered model. Treat them as different versions rather than assuming the newer grill is just a renamed 885.
The number in Ironwood 885 identifies that older model. It signals a larger format, but it doesn't tell you every dimension or how much space a specific cook will need.
The redesigned Ironwood brings a newer feature set. Compare the exact model details and manual for features that matter to you, rather than carrying assumptions from the 885 to the newer grill.
If capacity is your main concern, look at the listed cooking area for the exact model. Also measure the grill's outside footprint and the space needed to open it and work safely around it.
Which Ironwood fits your cooking needs?
Choose the Ironwood 885 if its larger cooking area suits the amount of food you prepare at once. The redesigned Ironwood may suit you better if its newer features matter more than the older model's larger format.
Think through a typical cook rather than your biggest occasion. A grill that can handle an extra-large gathering may take up space and cost more to maintain when most meals are smaller.
When the Ironwood 885 makes sense
The Ironwood 885 can be a better match for cooks who regularly prepare several dishes or larger batches at once. Its larger numbered format is the key reason to consider it over the redesigned model.
A bigger cooking area can give you more room to arrange food with space between pieces. That can make it easier to manage different foods or cooking times during one session.
Before choosing it, confirm that the grill will fit your patio and that you can access its lid, hopper and grease bucket. An older model may also require more care when checking condition and finding the right parts or accessories.
When the redesigned Ironwood makes sense
Choose the redesigned Ironwood if you want its newer generation of features and don't need the 885's larger format. Compare the feature list for the specific model you're considering with the tasks you expect it to handle.
Make a short list of must-haves, such as the cooking area you need or the controls you prefer. Then confirm those details in Traeger's specifications and owner information for that model.
If you are still weighing different Traeger lines, our comparison of the Traeger Ironwood vs Pro can help you decide whether a different model family fits better. You can also browse our best Traeger pellet grill guide for other options.
How should you compare size and cooking capacity?
Measure the space around the grill and compare the cooking-area figures for the exact models. The 885's larger format may help with batch cooking, but the right size depends on your usual meals and outdoor space.
Start by measuring the available patio or deck area. Leave room to move around the grill, open its lid and reach the hopper and grease bucket.
Cooking area is only one part of the fit. Check the exterior dimensions too, especially if the grill must pass through a gate, doorway or narrow path.
Consider how often you cook for a group. If you mostly prepare meals for a few people, a larger grill may not add enough value to justify its footprint.
For another size comparison, read our guide to Traeger Ironwood vs Ironwood XL. It covers a newer size choice within the Ironwood line.
What changes between the older and redesigned grills?
The models differ by generation, so verify each feature on the exact grill rather than assuming one-to-one replacements. The newer Ironwood's feature set is a reason to compare it directly with the older 885 before deciding.
Check Traeger's current specifications and manuals for the model year you plan to buy. Pay attention to the controls, cooking features, dimensions and care instructions that affect your routine.
For a used Ironwood 885, ask for the exact model identification and inspect the grill in person if possible. Check that the main parts are present and that the condition matches the seller's description.
Don't assume an accessory made for one Ironwood generation will fit another. Model names can overlap across years, and fit may depend on the exact grill size.
Which accessories fit the Ironwood 885?
Check an accessory's compatibility against your exact grill model before ordering. Some accessories named for the Ironwood 885 won't fit other Ironwood sizes.
The QuliMetal folding front shelf in this guide fits the Ironwood 885 and Traeger Pro 780. It folds down for storage and is rated to hold up to 30 lb; it does not fit the Ironwood 650.
For grease-bucket cleanup, the Findful 30-pack includes disposable aluminum liners compatible with the Ironwood 885 and 650. The Findful 20-pack also includes a black bucket along with 20 liners for those models.
The Traeger Ironwood vs Woodridge comparison can help if you're open to a different Traeger line. For a non-Traeger alternative, see our Traeger Ironwood vs Camp Chef Woodwind Pro comparison.
How do you decide between the Ironwood and Ironwood 885?
Pick the redesigned Ironwood for its newer feature set; pick the Ironwood 885 when its larger cooking area is the deciding factor. Confirm dimensions, generation and accessory fit before settling on either grill.
Choose based on the cooks you make most often, not the largest meal you might prepare once a year. A grill that fits your routine and outdoor space is easier to use.
For a used 885, check its condition and whether compatible accessories are available. For the redesigned Ironwood, verify the features and size of the exact model you intend to buy.
The Ironwood name covers multiple generations. Compare the specific grill in front of you, then choose the one that matches your space and cooking needs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the new Traeger Ironwood the same as the Ironwood 885?
No. Ironwood 885 refers to an older, larger numbered model, while the redesigned Ironwood is a newer generation with a different feature set.
Check the exact model name and year before comparing dimensions, accessories or manuals, since the shared Ironwood name doesn't mean the grills are interchangeable.
Is the Ironwood 885 bigger than the new Ironwood?
The Ironwood 885 is the older larger numbered model, but confirm the cooking area and exterior dimensions for the specific versions you're comparing. Traeger has used the Ironwood name across generations, so don't rely on the name alone when planning space or capacity.
Do Ironwood 885 accessories fit the new Ironwood?
Not necessarily. Accessories can depend on the grill's size and generation; for example, the QuliMetal folding front shelf here fits the Ironwood 885 and Pro 780, but not the Ironwood 650.
Check compatibility against the exact model before ordering.
Should I choose the Ironwood or Ironwood 885?
Choose the redesigned Ironwood if its updated features fit your needs and you want a current-generation model. Consider the Ironwood 885 if you specifically need its larger cooking area and can find a suitable unit.
Compare current availability, dimensions and included features before deciding.
