They are... however I picked up a used one for a great price! I must say... I'm hooked. I've only cooked salmon and pork loin on it so far (Chistmas will be Turkey, Ribs and Brisket).
I've never wanted a pellet pooper. I think it would take the "hands on" out of smoking which is half the fun for me. Traegers are the "Showtime rotisseries" of smoking, you just "Set it and forget it".