How much cooking area do I need?

For a family of four, 500–600 sq. in. is usually plenty. If you regularly cook multiple racks of ribs, a packer brisket plus sides, or host larger groups, look at 800+ sq. in. models like the Traeger Pro 34 or Woodridge Pro. Portable units around 300 sq. in. are best treated as second grills for tailgating and camping.