The maximum temperature setting on the Traeger Timberline XL is 500 degrees, which is the same as many/most pellet grills on the market today. However, the Timberline XL lacks direct-flame access that many pellet grills use to achieve higher grate temperatures of 650 degrees plus.

Can you grill at 500 degrees? Sure, but its not ideal, you want a grate surface temperature closer to 600 to 700 degrees to get the best grilling/searing results. 

Now, with the Timberline XL, it does also have its induction hob, which can easily get a cast-iron skillet up to those high 600 to 700 degree temperatures for good searing.

In fact, it can be a good setup for reverse searing steaks, they can be smoking steaks/burgers on the Timberline XL at 225 degrees, and when close to temp, quickly taken off and instantly seared on the induction hob/cast-iron pan.

However, that only really really works for cooking a couple of steaks/burgers at a time. Therefore, if you are looking for a pellet grill that can get its entire grate up to 600/700 degrees, check out our database through the link below.