Traeger built a smaller Flatrock griddle for smaller outdoor spaces

Engadget - Apr 3rd, 2025

Traeger is introducing a compact version of its popular Flatrock griddle, named the Flatrock 2 Zone, which is designed to cater to smaller outdoor spaces. This new model retains the key features of the larger Flatrock 3 Zone, including precise heat control with two separate cooking areas, U-shaped burners for even heating, and a wind-blocking design to prevent flame issues. Additional features include folding side shelves, the Pop-And-Lock rail system for accessories, and the EZ-Clean grease keg for easy maintenance. With a cooking surface of 468 square inches, the Flatrock 2 Zone is priced at $700, making it $200 less expensive than its larger counterpart. However, Traeger has yet to announce its availability date, stating only that it will be available soon in the US and Canada.

The expansion of the Flatrock line underscores the increasing popularity of griddles as essential backyard cooking tools. By offering a smaller and more affordable model, Traeger aims to attract consumers who have limited outdoor space but still desire the versatility of a high-quality griddle. This move also positions Traeger to compete with other notable brands like Weber, which offers a range of griddle options. Weber's smallest model provides a larger cooking area for a lower starting price, highlighting the competitive landscape Traeger is entering. The introduction of the Flatrock 2 Zone demonstrates Traeger's strategy to diversify its product offerings beyond wood pellet grills, tapping into a growing market trend for griddle-style cooking.

Traeger Flatrock 2 Zone Griddle Outdoor Cooking Weber Wood Pellets Barbecue Backyard Cooking

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.4

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The article provides a clear and timely overview of Traeger's new Flatrock 2 Zone griddle, highlighting its features and positioning it within the competitive landscape of outdoor cooking products. Its strengths lie in its clarity, readability, and timeliness, making it accessible to a general audience interested in grilling. However, the article's accuracy could be improved with more explicit sourcing and verification of claims, particularly regarding the exclusivity of Traeger's gas-powered models. The balance is somewhat skewed towards promoting Traeger's product, with limited exploration of alternative viewpoints or potential drawbacks. While the article is unlikely to drive significant societal impact or controversy, it serves as a useful resource for consumers considering a new griddle purchase. Enhancing source quality and transparency would strengthen its credibility and overall quality.

Accuracy

The story provides a generally accurate overview of Traeger's new Flatrock 2 Zone griddle, including its features, pricing, and intended market. Most claims about the product's features, such as the two-burner design, U-shaped burners, and edge-to-edge wind-blocking design, are consistent with available information from Traeger's official sources. However, the claim that the Flatrock 2 Zone is Traeger's only gas-powered grill might require further verification, as the article does not provide direct sources for this assertion. Additionally, the story accurately mentions the lack of a specific availability date, stating that it will be available "soon," which aligns with the information from Traeger. Overall, while the story is mostly accurate, some claims would benefit from additional sourcing or verification.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on Traeger's new product, providing detailed information about its features and benefits, which may lead to a slightly promotional tone. While it does mention an alternative option from Weber, the comparison is brief and lacks depth, potentially skewing the balance towards Traeger. The story does not explore consumer reviews or potential drawbacks of the Flatrock 2 Zone, which could have provided a more balanced perspective. Including more diverse viewpoints, such as customer feedback or expert opinions, would enhance the balance of the article.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, straightforward language to describe the features and benefits of the Flatrock 2 Zone. It effectively communicates the product's main selling points, such as its compact size and specific features like the Pop-And-Lock rail system. The comparison with Weber's Slate griddles is concise and helps readers understand alternative options. However, the article could benefit from more detailed explanations of technical terms, such as the "EZ-Clean grease keg," to aid reader comprehension. Overall, the article maintains a clear and neutral tone throughout.

Source quality

The article does not explicitly cite its sources, which makes it challenging to assess the reliability and credibility of the information presented. While the details about the Flatrock 2 Zone align with Traeger's official product descriptions, the lack of direct citations or references to authoritative sources weakens the source quality. The inclusion of more diverse and authoritative sources, such as industry experts or consumer reviews, would improve the overall source quality and credibility of the article.

Transparency

The article lacks explicit transparency regarding its sources and the basis for its claims, which affects its overall transparency score. While it provides a clear description of the product's features and pricing, it does not disclose the methodology for obtaining this information or any potential conflicts of interest. The mention of potential commission earnings from product links suggests a commercial interest, but this is not prominently disclosed, which could impact the perceived impartiality of the article. Greater transparency about sources and potential conflicts would enhance the article's credibility.