YODER SMOKERS YS640S PELLET GRILL VS the newly designed TRAEGER TIMBERLINE XL | TRIGGER ALERT!!!

[@mikemcmahon67]

I was strongly considering the Traeger Timberline after a trip to a store today and boy am I glad that I saw this video. Totally rethinking now that I saw what you get for equivalent cost on a Yoder. I deeply appreciate the time you took to produce this and agree with your sentiments about our country’s spending habits. I mistakenly presumed Traeger’s Timberline was made here!

[@TheAleShire]

You made the right choice. I did not. Did you end up with a Yoder?

[@thewolfofgod3908]

I have a Yoder trading in for the Traeger, unless you move the Yoder from competition to competition you do not need it built like that, it’s a shovel where a spoon is required. Traeger is far superior for a backyard. 50 cal. For home defense is a Yoder.

[@rickbesser8887]

Hey thanks guys. I have been a diehard Traeger guy for years, but I found the same strengths and weaknesses you did! I now own a Yoder 1500 and just ordered a y640s built in for my outdoor kitchen. Good job on the comparison video.

[@iklutah]

We have had a Traeger Lil Texas for many years, it was starting to show signs of age and we were in the market for a new pellet grill. Last week we went with the intent of buying the Traeger Timberline. We ended up buying the Yoder after seeing the design and build quality. After using it to cook brisket, pork belly, and sausage for 40 people yesterday, we're big fans of the Yoder. Thanks for this video!

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Amazing. This is exactly what I tried to get across in this video. Thanks for the comment.

[@jameswaymyers6359]

Brother, you dont know how valuable this content is, and it's real and honest. You saved me money.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

I appreciate that!

[@Jimmer-Space88]

For anybody wondering how long the introduction is, it’s 17 minutes and 35 seconds. That’s where you want to fast forward to to start watching the actual comparison lol.

[@Sardious]

Yeah i ended up forwarding through. The info was fine not sure why I got a 20 minute complaint about it before it even started

[@juanrivas53]

Then he wonders why his first video was 58 min long.

[@koryh.6491]

Thank you for making this video. I actually had a Traeger Timberline on order. After watching this video I cancelled the Traeger and ordered a YS640 with all the accessories. I couldn't be happier with my Yoder !!

[@henrylewis7652]

I had a YS640, and it's an absolute beast. I gave it to a friend because I upgraded to a Lonestar grill pellet grill with an offload package, which is 100 percent made in the USA as well. The YS640 is just not advanced as the Lonestar Grillz pellet smoker but BOTH are built like tanks 😉 and BOTH are USA built.

[@henrylewis7652]

Do yourself a favor and check out the Lonestar grillz pellet smoker. It's gonna be a wait, but it will last your lifetime and your kids' lifetime and probably their kids' lifetime. CHECK IT OUT

[@MoseMoser]

I'm a YS1500 guy for the last 8 months now, and if you think the 640 is a tank, the 1500 is a Naval Destroyer. Yoders are worth the price for sure. I agree maybe an induction burner on the side would seal the deal and make it an ultimate cooking rig, but i also have a blackstone 36'' so i can't complain too much, i maybe used it 4 times since i got the Yoder and i do 90% of my cooking on it. My Stove top oven has since developed cobwebs. good video guys, great points!

[@brianpreston5206]

I'm buying the yoder ys640s competition

[@MrRumBacardi]

Yes, it was a long video. But! You backed it with usefull information. I own a YS640 Competition and I was debating if I should have gotten a Timberline. I am so happy with my YS I actually got almost all the accesories you mentionned. So it made sense for me to get a fully decked out yoder for the price of almost a barebones Timberline. Great work. Keep up the good reviews :) You have a new sub!

[@patrickkuhn652]

Thank you! Saved my bacon with your comparison. Going with Yoder now. Didn't know about Traeger's Chinese manufacturing until your video.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

I'm glad this was useful to you Patrick. I would appreciate it if you go with Yoder to mention my video to them. Let me know if I can answer anymore questions. Cheers.

[@thomassferes8487]

I guess it was meant to be. Ive been toying with buying a pellet grill and yes Yoder was “The One” I’m comparing everything with. . . You know doing my due diligence! Then I stumble upon your comparison which after listening to a well thought out presentation / comparison which I am very thankful for, I’m with out a doubt choosing The Yoder YS640!! “ ‘Buy Once Cry Once’ “ great Job and Im sure everyone that views this awesome comparison will agree!

[@markchappell1008]

I have ys640 I put a strip of heat protector around the exhaust pipe it’s silver with fiber about 1 inch it stopped mine from dripping on shelve

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Good idea....thanks for the comment.

[@alviemiller7541]

@@JusPiddlinBBQ All Yoder would need to do is put a slight angle up on the pipe that exits the chamber to stop that dripping! They could compensate on the exhaust tube by making it a bit more than a 90 degree upward bend.

[@benwilliams9627]

Let me start by saying thank you. This is by far the best comparison video I have ever seen. I am sold on the Yoder and thanks for taking the time to go into detail about the build quality. You guys have no idea how valuable this was and how much money you have saved me and other buys.

[@CW5Light]

Wow! From another vet, army 29 years! Thank you for your research and heartfelt effort ya’ll put into this video! I know what my next pellet grill will be! Cheers!

[@scalfaroc]

Thanks for a great review! Appreciate the hours you put in to make the video.

[@Finnegan7]

What are the must add ons for the 640?

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Grill Grates for sure to take advantage of the direct flame searing capability. After that, the griddle is awesome, but to be honest we have enjoyed the pizza oven the most. I know it isn't cheap, but man is it worth it.

[@thewolfofgod3908]

Set for purpose why is the gauge thickness an issue. If it works?

[@roncoon8894]

Bought a a YS640S a month ago, not my first smoker or grill. Wife and I spent a day shopping the chain stores and our local BBQ stores and at the end of the day I bought the Yoder for all the reasons you picked it. The only bad thing I have to say is the Yoder is so versatile that I'm on a steep learning curve as to how to use all of it's cooking options :)

[@Mike-u7i6j]

Thank you for the time and effort!! I had up to yesterday not heard of the Yoder… as I am new to the BBQ world.

[@FollowRevolutionNine]

I saw your offset review from Lone Star Grillz, but do you know how their pellet smoker compares to the YS640S?

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

From what I have seen, the general fabrication is very similar.

[@RieKei73]

Absolutely fantastic review/comparison, I appreciate your brutal honesty! Looking forward to watching all of your videos with Yoder! I have been researching a lot over the past few months for a upgrade grill for myself and have been going back and forth between the YS640S and a few others of similar price points. This will be my purchase and my son in-law will be getting my old pellet grill. Great job, keep it honest, keep it true!

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

I'm glad this was helpful,. and I really appreciate your comment! Thanks for watching, and I hope you continue to do so.

[@RieKei73]

@@JusPiddlinBBQ you are doing great stuff, also...as soon as you started talking I knew you served lol. Did 21 years myself and was waiting for the knife hand to come out LOL. Keep on keepin it real brother!

[@shaneallee6168]

The quality of the Treager is the same as no name Walmart pellet grills, but at over ten times the price. I understand your frustration in that a company is just breaking it off in their customers. Just relying on name recognition with maybe $250 dollar innovations. Would like to see a comparison video with Yoder, Pitts and Spits, and Lone Star Grilz. All three made in USA with similar prices. Thank you for the honest video. I know some creators have to give glowing reviews because of sponsorship, and they have to make a living too. But their opinions on things mean little to nothing when their word is trash.

[@rickb3276]

Thanks for the great video. I have owned a YS-640 since 2012, and it’s still going strong. I upgraded to the dual fan system many years ago, and other than replacing the thermocouple twice and the starter rod once, I’ve never had a problem. It still has the original control board, but they mailed me a device to update the firmware about 8 years ago. I am thinking about doing a major upgrade to the Yoder, (control board, relocate thermocouple, upgrade heat deflector) but was wondering if I would be better off just spending the money on a new Traeger. Your video made up my mind for me. I’ll be upgrading the Yoder. Thanks again.

[@jamescummings2131]

Had dinner at a friend's house last night and he just got his ys40s. I asked him why he chose it over others and his feelings were an exact match with yours. He may have just quoted you, but I haven't asked yet. This has convinced me to go with this as I was originally looking at the Ironwood XL. Thank you sir!

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Thank you for your comment James.

[@MrMikey1215]

Exactly the info I was looking for. Thank you!!!

[@TMAquatics]

Thanks for sharing. My first pellet grill was the Traeger Pro 22. I’ve had it for 5 years now and it’s been nothing but problems. I realize this is a very entry level smoker. I want to up my smoking game, and Traeger is not a brand I will even consider. I’m here to learn more about the Yoder.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Thanks for the comment......glad to have you here.

[@SinisterMD]

One thing the Yoder has changed or does offer are fans with bearings. The pre-installed ones have failed, especially in cold weather, for some people. So you can purchase and self-install the upgraded bearing fans but that's about the only thing I can find that's a compromise from the factory. I have a YS640S.

[@mrler6823]

This is exactly the type of content we need. Thank you for the time and dedication to your craft; it makes a difference in the world. I don't care what you are reviewing in the future, I AM WATCHING. Keep up the good work.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

I appreciate that!

[@brianhawkins184]

I really appreciate all the time and effort you put in putting out this content. Thank you for what you do

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

I appreciate that Brian

[@jamestheadvisor1650]

I’ve cooked with charcoal for years and years now. I’m keeping my charcoal grill but going to add a pellet grill. I looked at Traeger and felt the same way. My first thought was “This is a lot of money for thin metal”. So my journey started looking. I always come back to Yoder. I’m still looking but right now Yoder is in the lead. Thanks for the video! 🙏

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Thanks for the comment, and let me know what you decide on!

[@pawpawstew]

Have you looked at Lone Star Grillz? Looking for a comparison.

[@charleslorne]

Does all of this heavy metal etc have any bearing on performance??? Flavor of the food, consistency of temperature, efficient pellet consumption??..which is the better PERFORMING grill?

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Yes...thermal dynamics, heat retention, heat recovery, smoke retention, grill longevity, cold weather heat consistency......but if you prefer a thinly made smoke, then the Traeger is it.

[@carlmedgaus2114]

Thanks for taking the time to do this video. I’ve been thinking about moving to a Yoder…..You’ve convinced me!

[@AussieTimeSirStewietheKnight]

Great review. Nice to see someone take their time to think about before they state what they see and feel. I am buying a used Mint Yoder YS640/Comp that my friend had i am getting cheap. I was on the fence about the Timeberline XL but this deal came up. I will be upgrading the YS to the new controller.

[@ordehaas]

but that most important was not answered. What about the food result? flavor? which one is better?

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

This was a price / construction comparison video. Cooking and taste testing wouldv'e added another 15 minutes to the video.

[@heeroyuy9z]

How did you manage to lift your Yoder onto the bbq trailer? Is there a ramp you purchased?

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

I have ramps. I pull off the back gate....help is needed, but it gets up there.

[@larrysioxson2567]

Never apologize for speaking the truth. Keep doing what you’re doing and keep these companies accountable for the quality of their products. 👍🏽

[@dank9288639]

hard to choose between the lsg pellet grill or the yoders

[@jeffstallings8737]

You know I looked at both these grills, and man do I appreciate the honesty!! Sorry it caused you so much grief, but man this old man is a fan for life!

[@shanepassafaro4339]

Yoder and Lone Star claim made in the USA, I was wondering where they get their steel? I'm torn between the two.

[@michaelholliday6037]

As a guy that lives to cook outside, I always wanted a Traeger. When the Timberline came out I was salivating over it at Ace hardware. But, the Yoder is an absolute beast! It will be around for you grandchildren. If I was going to spend 4,000 I would buy the Yoder or a 1/4 inch 90 gallon offset. By the way, I spotted your EGA on the Yoder. Semper Fi!

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Semper Fi!!

[@RobertKick-n5u]

How about a comparison to a Mak2 vs yoder

[@blaurenza6593]

Did the ole lid shake test on my recteq 1250 and it didn't budge! Glad to see it didn't wobble. Thanks for the video

[@bhogan843]

👊👊

[@bhogan843]

You just had to come in here and brag. 😂😂😂

[@RockyMountainPeterbilts]

Considering upgrading my GMG Daniel Boone. I have had zero problems with it but we may be doing a new covered patio and I was considering the new Traeger. Went to our local ACE hardware and there it was. After opening it up and looking at it there is no way I would give up my GMG. The GMG is built better. I have also been looking at the Yoder 640. I'd just do the basic wheels or a built in set up. After seeing this video my decision is made. Especially with Yoder Grill's retrofit philosophy. Yoder will be my next purchase. Thank you very much for the video. Well done!

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Thanks for the great comment. Glad this video was helpful.

[@MrDavidwesty]

Was curious if the older Timberline 1300 has a better quality than the newer Timberline ? Ace is clearing them out cheaper than list price right now.

[@teamtsn9626]

I was just talking to a buddy of mine about name recognition being the primary thing you pay for with Traeger's (customer service coming second). This came up in conversation when I was trying to figure out if i wanted to get a Yoder or a Traeger and after seeing this video I cannot thank you enough for confirming my fear. Thanks for being honest and not just blinded by a name.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

I appreciate your comment. On another note, Traeger customer service is contracted out .... some of the folks you get on the phone have never owned or cooked on a grill before in their lives. Glad you found this video helpful. Cheers!

[@jabero54]

I’ve had a Primo XL charcoal grill for a couple of years and I love it, but I’m looking to buy a pellet grill too. I’d pretty much decided on a YoderYS640s and this video just made up my mind, I’m definitely getting the Yoder. Thank you.

[@mrhappy9911]

damn, is trager 1300 okay?? I was about to purchase an XL. is the 1300 better quality? I I dont have access to yodder where I am

[@moogs]

Good for you for having what is one of the best REAL reviews out there. There is so much crap being peddled with affiliates selling junk and lies. I like my Traeger Ironwood don’t get me wrong but it was first Gen and it was a deal. Their prices now are insane. I’m going 640 when my Traeger takes a crap. Thank you for being real.

[@Twohandsranch58]

WOW that was straight up !!! Great video thanks for sharing your info and hard work....

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Thanks so much.

[@yambor44]

So glad you took the time to do this video. I have owned many pellet grills over the last 15 years including a Yoder 1500, Memphis, MAK 2star, Fast Eddy 650 and Traeger (my first pellet grill) and a few others. I was considering the new Traeger Timberline XL partially due to the grease/ash management system being easy to get to. I appreciate your brother covering his thoughts on that portion alone. I currently own a Yoder 640 that I converted to the new Wifi controller a couple of years ago. I LOVE the ease of cleaning the ash out of the fire pot via the 2 piece deflector. I also own a LSG 42" pellet grill. Other than having to get down on my knees to clean the ash out, it's better than the Yoder. I agree that the price tag of this newest Traeger is too high and I will not be pursuing the purchase of one at this time thanks in part to this video. Again, thank you for taking the time and effort to put it out there.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

I'm glad you got value out of the video. Thanks.

[@guitaristguy20]

What made you let go of the Yoder 1500?

[@paulholland3232]

I’m glad that you mentioned you have LSG pellet that’s the one I’ve been leaning toward but I’ve been looking a lot at the Yoder 640. Any words of advice between the two

[@kevinvardy5039]

Great video. I have a 10 year old ys640 and was thinking about upgrading to a timberline. After watching your honest review I’m going to spend the money to upgrade what I have and add the accessories you showed. The double wall cook chamber on the traeger was one of the things that appealed to me living in northern Ontario Canada. But not when it’s as flimsy as you demonstrated. I use my yoder in -30 deg and colder weather and it moans and growns and takes a wile to heat up but has never let me down. Thanks for the great advice.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Great choice kevin....after the Yoder, you would've been extremely disappointed.

[@kevinvardy5039]

@@JusPiddlinBBQ I really appreciate an honest review. Great job!

[@bradtucker999]

Amen Brother! Preach it! Don’t feel bad about stating the facts!

[@ZenWarrior-u1g]

Believe me I own one have had two, my first one had the first igniter system i sold that for more than i paid for it. Purchased a new one last year. I tell ya i love it. The only thing i did to improve it was use a hi heat silicone to form a better gasket around the lid, had the same issue with the earlier one. You will appreciate the quality when you receive your new one.😀

[@EverydayBBQ]

I always appreciate your honesty and approach, brother. I also know exactly what you mean about these videos. They are hard to do and require a lot of patience and effort. I think you did good. I’m currently working on a review video for the LSG pellet grill. Made is the USA 🇺🇸, everything from top to bottom!

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Cheers brother....you're one of the good ones!!

[@EverydayBBQ]

@@JusPiddlinBBQ likewise. You were one of the guys I watched before I started my channel. You are a good dude.

[@robertmann8177]

i have owned a yoder ys640 for 5 years and have never regreted spending the money for it! i have replaced the igniter one time and that is it.great grill!!

[@HollerTenn]

Nice work men… extremely helpful!

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Glad it helped!

[@fredaripco3897]

Shopping for a new pellet grill, sure glad I viewed your video. I was going to buy the Timberline today but talked myself into researching a little more before I laid down $4K. Thank you for the great video.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Thanks for checking it out. Glad it was helpful Fred!

[@robsmith4125]

Amazing review. I've always been a Traeger guy but can totally see the Yoder build is pretty awesome. And I have thought the Timberline was overpriced. But now I've been researching the new Traeger Ironwood XL and watched a lot of comparisons of the Ironwood vs Timberline. Other than a little difference in height of the grill area and losing that side induction burner, it looks like the Ironwood is basically the same smoker for over half the price at $1800. So... with that price point and these features, how would you say the Ironwood is for a deal?

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

I liked the old Ironwood, and the new one is probably a better value over the Timberline, however the build quality is going to be the same...and for that price, I just don't see it.

[@robsmith4125]

@@JusPiddlinBBQ Thank you very much for the quick reply and your thoughts on that!

[@k.b.1759]

Thank you so much for this video!! I’m about to get my first pellet grill within the year. The very two I’m looking at are shown in this video. Maybe it’s me, but does the Timberline have more grilling area? Also, how hard is it to clean out a Yoder, I’ve been told they are very prone to rusting, is that true? However I really like the 10ga steel and that it’s built in America. Also, how does Yoders costumer service compare to the other?

[@StealthJackson12B]

I've had the Yoder for 2 years and love it, build quality is CRAZY - YES ITS BUILT LIKE A TANK. Not a single part on it is questionable. Customer service is great. My opinion is you can't beat it. THE END.

[@scottsworld21]

Great video! I’m coming from a old country wrangler stick burner and it was awesome! Probably 400lbs. I started looking for a new pellet smoker, and they all seem like they’re made out of tin foil. Finally found this Yoder. I can’t wait to save up and get one of these bad boys. Great video! China crap is garbage. I can’t believe people just throw their money away like that.

[@gofy8481]

I had a Pitts and Spitts which I had nothing but trouble with, really didn't add much smoke flavor, and its paint was gone in 3 years. I gave it away. I bought a Yoder ys640 and I love it. It is the best. I am getting the pizza oven tomorrow.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Thanks for sharing

[@glennhobbs59]

Gotta check out the LoneStar grillz pellet smoker

[@holg3070]

I have been in the market for 1 week now looking for a backyard smoker. Of course i heard of treager. But i did my REASEARCH. I know better now. The reason people don’t know about the yoder is simply due to advertising. Treagar has better advertising. I am sold on the Yoder. The question for me is which size, 480 or 640?

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

I think if you get the 480 you will wish you had gotten the 640. If you get the 640, you will never wish you had gotten the 480.

[@1230mkelly]

1500

[@dewaynefile3754]

Just wanted to say thanks and all your hard work was helpful. I was on the fence of buying a new traeger timberline XL but after watching this video I went to my Yoder dealer to check them out, needless to say bought a ys640s and picking it up Tuesday…thanks again

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Congratulations Dewayne!

[@Two_Bit_Smoke]

I love your video and I’ve watched it twice. I have a few suggestions that I think would add value to the Yoder. Let me know what you think. I’ve owned a YS640S, but I sold it because of these issue. So, my suggestions for improvement are as follows: 1. Eliminate the smoke stack and put vents in the back of the body of the grill. 2. Make all the grill grates 304 stainless steel. 3. Fix the grease bucket issue. Grease leaks from the area where there are nuts and it’s ridiculous for a premium grill. 4. Make the body and legs fully welded on the base model. 5. Finally, the auger for a premium pellet smoker needs to be an open center auger. This will virtually eliminate pellet auger jams. If Yoder fixes these issues, I might purchase it again. I replaced my YS640S with a Smokin’ Brothers Premier Plus pellet smoker and that is an awesome pellet smoker minus the fact that they need to add a handle and a shelf. Smoke on, brother!

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

I really appreciate your comment, and I think you have valid points. I haven't had any grease leaking issues so far, and I have the competition cart so I can't speak to the base model cart, however I will say that the legs appear small to me. I haven't had any auger jams so far either, but I agree with you about the grill grates, and the smoke vents are an interesting idea. I've had pellet grills with vents in the back and there are drawbacks and benefits. Smokin' Brothers make great pits as well. Smoke on!

[@stephenbrady916]

Does Yoder provide more smoke flavor?

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

I believe it does, especially when you consider you will get more smoke flavor the lower temps that you cook at. The Yoder temp range is from 150 - 600. I actually did the duck breast video at 150 to start off with, and the temp accuracy at 150F was perfect.

[@stephenbrady916]

Thanks. @@JusPiddlinBBQ

[@justinbcook1]

Fantastic video! I was already set on the Yoder (buy American every chance possible) but this just makes me feel like I'm getting that much better of a value out of it. Thanks for doing this.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Cheers Justin!

[@LovesHighGround]

Thanks! Simple videos like this go a long way. I'm in Washington State and looked up dealer locations where they broker the product. Some of these locations seem to really jack up the price, unfortunately.

[@BrianFatt]

thanks for your review, I really like the material used on the Yoder!

[@stephenfriend442]

Would a part 1 and 2 have helped?

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Probably Stephen, but at that point I was tired of thinking about it. I appreciate your feedback and your comment.

[@stephenfriend442]

Appreciate you taking the time and doing this video and try and not let the negative comments get you if you get any.

[@sdlittlefield]

Wish I could send you my Pitts & Spitts Maverick 1250 to compare to the Yoder. Your in depth reviews are enjoyable to watch! Keep up the great content sir

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

That would be cool!

[@Robs_fitnessmission]

This was honestly a huge game changer in my decision to buy the new timberline. I had it in the cart and just took it out. I’d love to learn more about the Yoder smokers.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Made in America by hard working craftsman, not stamped out in a machine. Made in Yoder, KS. The controller is made by Fireboard Labs in the USA as well, and Yoder puts their own proprietary algorithym to produce the best smoke flavor. Offers direct fire gilling/searing as well. A vast array of accessories are available for it. Thanks for the comment.

[@ZenWarrior-u1g]

Believe me I own one have had two, my first one had the first igniter system i sold that for more than i paid for it. Purchased a new one last year. I tell ya i love it. The only thing i did to improve it was use a hi heat silicone to form a better gasket around the lid, had the same issue with the earlier one. You will appreciate the quality when you receive your new one.😀

[@andrewpope204]

This was a great video! I did a ton of research before I bought my first pellet grill and everyone said to get a traeger. There were not a lot of YT videos out about comparisons when I was looking. I went to my local store and the traeger felt like a tin can. I lived in the mid-west where it is cold and wanted something to cook on year round. I found 2 companies that I like Grilla Grills and Yoder. I didn't want to spend the money like you said since it was my first pellet grill. If and when I upgrade it will be a yoder. Thank you for the great video and taking the time.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Thank you for your reply.

[@mikeburklin2675]

Great video, appreciate your honesty. Great job!!

[@garygolden9220]

Great video comparison! Glad I have my 2017 Yoder YS-640. To this day I have not had to replace any parts, even the igniter. Truly satisfied. May 4, 2023 Gary Golden

[@scottbowden9686]

Great, unbiased, fair comparison. The comment that you take the high quality controller and induction oven (17:05) out of the Traeger and you have a Walmart quality grill really stood out. The preference for American made (Yoder in this case) shouldn't fall on party lines. Companies outsource manufacturing overseas to reduce labor costs and are often too shortsighted or too apathetic to evaluate the quality reduction that ensues. As an engineer in the oil and gas industry, we would avoid Chinese mills when purchasing steel because we could not trust their material test reports that the stated amount of each element was true. You even see this in silverware, 18/10 stainless steel may be advertised, but if it came from China, it's hard to know for sure. The company I currently work for outsourced motor engineering and manufacture overseas several years ago, and the engineering left in the US cannot even communicate effectively with the engineers in South America that have a broken understanding of English and who work under a culture of get it done cheap and fast. Motors are often late and/or sent back because of the resultant quality issues. This video paints a similar picture with the grill industry. The intro of this review is long winded, but this guy offers the most earnest, unbiased grill review video I have yet seen, and it helped immensely in my own research for what to buy. Thanks a ton.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Thank you for your kind feedback on this video. It is reasuring to hear that this was helpful and informative. Cheers Scott!

[@t-mac6210]

I have a offset Yoder Wichita that I’m looking at selling just don’t have the time. I love it. I think it creates the best barbecue but now looking for pellet.

[@darrensager2516]

We sold our Timberline 1300 to get a Yoder YS 640s. The Traeger was just like you said even with their previous top of the line model. It never produced good smoke. The firebox would get filled up too easily. The only nice feature was the ability to empty the pellets from the hopper. The Yoder is an incredible piece of equipment. Yes proudly made in the United States. Wish we never spent a dime on the Traeger. I let everyone that I meet know our experience with both. Get the Yoder!

[@ricklandgrebe]

Great, heartfelt, sober review and honest comparison. I am in the market for the Yoder YS640S on a competition cart. YES, a lot of $$$. But all the reviews I have checked seem to agree: Yoder makes quality products that are MADE IN AMERICA!!! I am sold. and will be ordering my Yoder soon. Thx.

[@Brodiesix]

I was gifted an ironwood xl last month, it’s super great! I did the wiggle test with the door and it was sturdy. I think it’s a much better deal than the timberline, it’s only $2000

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Thanks for watching and your comment Brandon!

[@jonaszaiger64]

Loved the video I'm definitely buying the Yoder...American made and the best on the market in my opinion. My dad has a Traeger and it's trash. Flimsy build and hinges are bent already after a year. Thanks for calling out the China made garbage!!

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Right on

[@chadhartline2297]

Great job on the video! Thank you for all the info. I thought your brother did a fantastic job too. Would love to see both of you collaborate in future videos if possible

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Thanks Chad.....we actually have a pork belly video that we did together on the channel. Check it out. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZDWnGdte5eVbpY

[@meals24u]

*I’m a huge Traeger fan, but more so of their old stuff.* I have an old 20 series Traeger, bought second hand and have used it now for about 5 years, and over the past 10 months it has run about 3 times a week or more on average (Carnivore diet), without a problem other than smoke in my hopper occasionally.. I’ve had the Pro’s and other Traegers and I love their old old Pro 34 (with welded legs). That thing was built solid too, not 10ga like the yoder, but far far better than anything else these days.. Also like their old Pro 22. Other than that, the new sheet metal beer cans can stay under Gucci Folks covers and look pretty with their Apps! Old school for me, and if not that, then we doing stick burner. Simple as that. I’ve also had 2 Pit Boss’s and some other pellet grills and price is a big deal for me. My fave ended up being the Coleman and my old Traegers, hands down. But I’m now considering the new Z Grills Multitasker. Not build like the Yoder, and not American, but dang good price for what you get. In my opinion better than the Traeger Timberline XL

[@brianmorris2702]

Great review guys I live in Northern Ontario Canada and was so anoyed with a 1 year old Louisiana 800 Black Label grill that I gave it to my son and am looking for a superior smoker for myself. The Yoder 640 seems to be what I am looking for. Thanks for the unbiased review Brian Morris

[@bigblockmaro1]

I went with a Yoder YS640. You can make great food with either option. Being a car guy my entire life, and a Mechanical Engineer, I needed look no farther than inspecting the quality of fabrication of the Yoder to know it would last much longer. Like I said either one can make good food, you just need to decide what aspects are more important for you.

[@marquisem5]

I really appreciate this information. I was online tonight looking at Timberline to go into my outdoor kitchen. I said let me go look at some reviews before I buy. Yoder it is!

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Glad it was helpful!

[@hablep]

Do tanks make good food? I hear “tank” over and over but nobody cooked and tasted any food.

[@JusPiddlinBBQ]

Lucky for you I have made other videos showing the quality of food. You're welcome.

[@careyemory7757]

Made in the USA or China easy to make the choice i have the YS640S

[@rebsince71]

Great job on the video. Appreciate the honesty.

[@mike7783]

Great job. Good video.

[@bridges174]

Bro, I appreciate the work you put in this video.

[@rawbeartoe_AK]

Fook! No Yoder dealers in Alaska! Thank you for the awesome review.

[@LovesHighGround]

I'm in Washington State and looked up dealer locations where they broker the product. Some of these locations seem to really jack up the price, unfortunately.

[@Cinccinatti_C3]

You are right but I will say. Everyone needs to be more innovative. Even Yoder is being lazy. A Leaking stack. Do a complete welded stack and make adjustments for the shipping for it. Also the technology and features comparison vs the Traeger. I agree spend your money wisely and spend money for U.S. products but we have to call Yoder on being the best and pushing forward newer technology and feature rich options. Cant just stick a controller on it and call it a day. Great video!

[@danmacdonald8829]

I've got five smokers and for a pellet grill I bought a Yoder 640 over a Timberline. Overall, Yoder is way better.

[@aaronsandoval6164]

My next smoker will definitely be a Yoder! Smoke meat, I will. (That's Yoder speak) Use the Fork Luke!

[@jimwright5529]

Great video with being completely honest. I aspire to have a Yoder, but when shopping for my first smoker, I ended up going with another American made brand that was much heavier construction and steel than Traeger.

[@zackeryporio956]

Thats why they say the ironwood is the best bang for your buck on the traeger lines

[@ricrudy]

Let’s see steel versus aluminum? Easy to decide which one is better Yoder.

[@RumandCook]

Pretty tough to compare those two. Few are made as well as Yoder. 🍻

[@rdw670]

but after thinking about it instead of a ironwood a Yoder is definitely the way to go. nice job.