I looked long and hard and did a lot of research before deciding on the Traeger Ironwood 650 (the older model - not this year's release). There are several different brands out there. I stayed away from the PitBoss (some folks swear by them) because my neighbor has one and has had several problems from augers to temp control, etc. I went with the 650 size because it's usually only my wife and I and I can do pretty much all I want on the 650. It is also big enough to feed a large crowd on those rare occasions. Plus I figured less space = less pellets used during a cook and a smaller footprint on my back porch. I went with the older model because I wasn't sold on the idea that the increase in price for the newer model was worth the extra dollars. I also opted for the Traeger for the app support which is great. All that being said, it's going to be a decision that YOU have to make in the end. There are a ton of various comparison videos out there on brand vs brand and model vs model. Look at ease of use, ease of cleaning, pellet hopper capacity, APP SUPPORT is a biggie, temperature consistency, Insulation, after market items, warranty support, user reviews, etc etc. There's really not a "beginner model" because a pellet grill is not something you want to purchase and then have to upgrade shortly afterwards - unless of course you happen to be independently wealthy. Spend the upgrade money on other types of smokers (kamado, electric, drums, offsets, etc etc).