Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Charcoal Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This masterbuilt masterbuilt gravity series 800 review examines a charcoal grill that prioritizes digital precision over manual charcoal management. It features a DigitalFan control system that actively manages airflow to maintain steady heat. The unit offers 800 square inches of total cooking area, including two porcelain-coated smoking racks and a flat top griddle insert. It reaches high temperatures quickly, hitting 700 degrees Fahrenheit in just 14 minutes. This combination of automated temperature control and substantial capacity defines its place in the outdoor cooking market.
What stands out
- DigitalFan technology minimizes heat fluctuations for consistent cooking results
- Heats up to 700°F in 14 minutes for searing capabilities
- Includes a flat top griddle insert for versatile cooking options
- Total cooking area of 800 square inches across multiple racks
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should consider this grill if you want charcoal flavor without the hassle of constant tending. The DigitalFan system handles the airflow, so you can monitor temperatures remotely via WiFi or Bluetooth. The large 800-square-inch capacity suits families or those hosting gatherings. The included griddle insert also appeals to cooks who enjoy breakfast items or flat-top techniques alongside traditional smoking and grilling.
Who should skip it
You might want to look elsewhere if you prefer a smaller footprint. This unit weighs 204 pounds and measures 55.1 inches wide, making it a substantial piece of outdoor furniture. If you lack the deck or patio space for a grill of this size, it will dominate your area. Additionally, if you strictly want a traditional kettle-style experience without digital controls, the automated DigitalFan system may not align with your preferences for manual charcoal management.
Verdict: This grill delivers automated charcoal smoking with a large, versatile cooking surface. It is ideal for those who want consistent results without manual intervention.
Key specs explained for this grill
Fuel Type: Charcoal
This unit burns charcoal rather than gas or pellets. You load the hopper with briquettes or lump charcoal to generate heat and smoke. This fuel source provides a traditional smoky flavor profile that many outdoor cooks prefer. Unlike gas grills, you manage the fuel load manually, but the DigitalFan system automates the airflow to keep the burn consistent. It is ideal for enthusiasts who want authentic charcoal taste with modern temperature stability.
Control Type: DigitalFan
The DigitalFan is an automated system that adjusts airflow based on your set temperature. It actively minimizes heat fluctuations, maintaining a steady cooking environment without manual damper adjustments. This is useful for long cooks like smoking brisket or low-and-slow roasting. You set the target heat, and the fan does the work. This reduces the guesswork involved in traditional charcoal grilling and helps prevent temperature spikes that can burn food.
Cooking Area: 800 sq. in.
You get 800 square inches of total cooking space, including two porcelain-coated smoking racks and the main grill area. This capacity allows you to cook multiple items simultaneously, such as ribs, burgers, and vegetables. It is larger than standard portable grills but smaller than commercial units. This size suits families or small gatherings. When comparing outdoor cooking equipment, this area offers enough room for serious meal prep without requiring a massive footprint.
Maximum Temperature: 700°F
The grill can reach up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit in about 14 minutes. This high heat capability allows for searing steaks and achieving a crisp crust on foods that benefit from intense direct heat. It bridges the gap between low-temperature smoking and high-temperature grilling. You can use this range for versatile cooking tasks, from slow smoking to quick searing. This speed and range make it suitable for cooks who want one unit for multiple techniques.
Design and Build Specs
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 is a substantial unit. According to the listing, it measures 55.1 inches wide, 30.5 inches long, and 50.9 inches tall. It weighs 204 pounds. This mass suggests stability, but it also means you need a permanent spot for it. You cannot easily move it around your patio or storage shed. The footprint requires a dedicated outdoor cooking station with enough clearance for the DigitalFan system to operate safely.
The cooking layout provides 800 square inches of total area. This includes cast iron grill grates and two porcelain-coated smoking racks. The listing notes that a flat top griddle insert is included. This insert changes the surface from open grates to a solid plane. You can sear steaks on the grates or cook eggs and pancakes on the flat top. The porcelain coating on the racks helps resist rust, which is important for a charcoal unit exposed to the elements.
The control interface is digital. You manage the DigitalFan via a panel on the unit or through a smartphone app using WiFi or Bluetooth. The unit also features a built-in temperature gauge and a meat probe thermometer. These sensors help you monitor heat without opening the lid. The charcoal and black color scheme is standard for this type of equipment. The finish appears designed to withstand outdoor conditions, though the listing does not specify the exact coating material beyond the porcelain racks.
Setup and everyday use
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 requires a dedicated space due to its footprint. At 55.1 inches wide and 30.5 inches long, it needs a sturdy, level surface. The unit weighs 204 pounds, so moving it is not a casual task. You should plan its placement carefully before unpacking. The height of 50.9 inches places the cooking grates at a comfortable working level for most adults.
Daily operation centers on the DigitalFan system. You load charcoal into the hopper, and the digital control manages airflow automatically. This minimizes heat fluctuations without manual vent adjustments. The grill reaches 225°F in eight minutes, 450°F in ten minutes, and 700°F in fourteen minutes. This rapid heat-up allows you to switch between low-and-slow smoking and high-heat searing quickly.
Control is handled via the digital panel or a smart device. The listing confirms WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. You can monitor temperature and set cook times from your phone. A built-in meat probe thermometer helps track internal food temperatures. The 800-square-inch cooking area includes cast iron grates and two porcelain-cooked smoking racks. A flat-top griddle insert is also included, expanding your cooking options. This setup supports both traditional smoking and versatile outdoor cooking tasks.
Before You Buy This Grill
Before you buy the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800, consider how it fits into your outdoor cooking routine. This unit combines charcoal smoking with griddle capabilities. You receive a flat top griddle insert and cast iron grill grates. Ensure your patio or deck can support its 204-pound weight and 55.1-inch width. The DigitalFan system requires charcoal, so keep a steady supply of briquettes or lump charcoal nearby. Since it connects via WiFi and Bluetooth, verify your smartphone is compatible with the app for remote monitoring. The 800-square-inch cooking area is generous, but verify it meets your family’s needs compared to smaller 560-square-inch models. Regular cleaning of the griddle and grates is necessary to maintain performance. This grill suits those who want digital precision without sacrificing traditional charcoal flavor. It stands apart from standard pellet grills by offering active airflow control. Check that your space allows for proper ventilation and heat dissipation. This model is ideal for cooks who value temperature stability and versatility in one substantial unit.
Check before you buy
- Verify your patio can support the 204-pound weight.
- Ensure your smartphone works with the companion app.
- Check if 800 square inches fits your cooking needs.
- Confirm you have space for charcoal storage nearby.
- Measure your area for the 55.1-inch width.
The product at a glance
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Charcoal Smoker Grill
Best for: High-heat searing and digital temperature management
- Cooking Area
- 800 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Control Type
- DigitalFan
- Connectivity
- WiFi, Bluetooth
- Maximum Temperature
- 700°F
- Compatible Appliance
- Griddle, Smoker
View on Amazon: Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Charcoal Smoker Grill Affiliate link
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 is a charcoal grill and smoker with 800 square inches of cooking space. It reaches 700°F in 14 minutes using DigitalFan temperature control. You can manage heat via the digital panel, WiFi, or Bluetooth. The unit includes a flat top griddle insert and cast iron grates. It weighs 204 pounds and measures 55.1 inches wide.
Pros
- Reaches 700°F maximum temperature in 14 minutes
- 800 square inches of total cooking area
- Includes flat top griddle insert and cast iron grates
- DigitalFan minimizes heat fluctuations for stable temperatures
- WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity for remote control
Cons
- Heavy at 204 pounds
- Large footprint at 55.1 inches wide
- Requires charcoal fuel
Good fit if
- You need high-heat searing capabilities up to 700°F
- You want to control cooking temperature from your smartphone
- You require versatile cooking surfaces including a griddle
Skip if
- You have limited outdoor space for a large unit
- You prefer gas or pellet fuel over charcoal
- You need a lightweight grill for easy transport
Verdict: Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Charcoal Grill offers precise digital temperature control and high heat for searing. It suits cooks who want smartphone management and versatile cooking surfaces like a griddle.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Charcoal Smoker Grill |
|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 800 sq. in. |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal |
| Control Type | DigitalFan |
| Connectivity | WiFi, Bluetooth |
| Maximum Temperature | 700°F |
| Compatible Appliance | Griddle, Smoker |
| Dimensions | 30.5 × 55.1 × 50.9 inches |
| Weight | 204 pounds |
| Size | 800 square inches |
| Color | Charcoal,Black |
| Model | MB20040221 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 come with a griddle?
Yes, this unit includes a flat top griddle insert alongside cast iron grill grates. The product data lists it as compatible with both griddle and smoker appliances. This allows you to switch between traditional grilling and flat-top cooking for eggs or pancakes without needing separate equipment.
How large is the cooking area on this smoker?
The model number indicates an 800 square inch capacity. This total cooking area provides ample space for large cuts of meat or multiple items. You can utilize the full surface for smoking or grilling depending on your current meal requirements and the insert you choose to install.
Can I control the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 with my phone?
Yes, the unit features app connectivity for digital management. You can monitor and adjust settings remotely through a smartphone application. This digital control system works with the DigitalFan to maintain precise temperatures, allowing you to manage the cook from inside your home or yard.
What type of fuel does this grill use?
This grill uses charcoal as its primary fuel source. You load the hopper with briquettes or lump charcoal to generate heat and smoke. This fuel type delivers a traditional smoky flavor profile that differs from gas or pellet smokers, appealing to cooks who prefer classic barbecue tastes.
Is the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 difficult to move?
The unit weighs 204 pounds, making it a heavy appliance to relocate. Its substantial mass provides stability during use but requires a permanent, level spot. You should plan its placement carefully on a sturdy patio or deck surface, as moving it is not a casual task.
What are the physical dimensions of this charcoal grill?
The grill measures 55.1 inches wide, 30.5 inches long, and 50.9 inches tall. These dimensions indicate a large footprint that needs significant outdoor space. Ensure your cooking area can accommodate this width and length before purchase, as it requires a dedicated spot for safe operation.