You’ll get a versatile cooker that smokes low, sears ultra-hot, and griddles reliably across about 800 sq in. Heat-up is fast — 225°F in ~8 minutes, 450°F in ~10, 700°F in ~14 — and the DigitalFan plus app keep temps steady. Two top smoking racks, a cast-iron grate and optional griddle cover common cooks, while probes and the built-in gauge need quick calibration. It’s bulky but mobile; keep maintenance in mind, and scroll on to see specifics.
Some Key Takeaways
- Heats quickly: reaches 225°F in ~8 min, 450°F in ~10 min, and 700°F in ~14 min for fast searing or smoking.
- Versatile 3-in-1 cooker: serves as smoker, high-heat searer, and griddle with optional flat-top insert.
- Large cooking area: about 800 sq in with two porcelain smoking racks plus a main cast-iron grate.
- Precise control: DigitalFan with app connectivity offers steady airflow, real-time temps, scheduling, and cook logs.
- Considerations: bulky but wheeled, requires regular hopper/ash/iron maintenance, probe calibration, and wind adjustments.
Performance and Heat-Up Results: Real-World Timings and Temperature Stability
Although the Gravity Series 800 looks large, it heats remarkably fast: you’ll hit 225°F in about 8 minutes, 450°F in 10 minutes, and 700°F in 14 minutes. You’ll appreciate fast preheating that gets you cooking without waiting. The DigitalFan keeps airflow steady, so you see stable temperatures instead of wild swings. Controls are precise; you set temps and the grill holds them. Be critical: on extreme cold or open wind you’ll need adjustments, but performance stays reliable. For someone who values independence and control, the unit delivers predictable heat and responsive behavior that won’t limit your cooking plans. It’s a great choice for anyone who enjoys outdoor cooking and wants reliable performance with charcoal grills.
Cooking Area, Grates, and Accessories: What Fits on 800 Sq in
When you’re planning a cook for a crowd, the Gravity Series 800’s 800 square inches of usable space gives you real flexibility: two porcelain-coated smoking racks plus the main cast-iron grate and optional flat-top griddle let you run multiple zones—direct sear, low-and-slow, and a griddle surface—without overcrowding. You’ll appreciate a logical rack arrangement: top racks for brisket and ribs, main grate for steaks and burgers, griddle for veggies and breakfast. Accessories fit without fuss, but plan accessory storage—hooks, bins, or nearby cart—to keep inserts and tools tidy. It’s spacious, modular, and favors purposeful setups over clutter. Consider adding a dedicated grill tool set to keep spatulas, tongs, and brushes organized and ready.
Controls, Connectivity, and Temperature Tools: How the DigitalFan, App, Gauge, and Probe Work
Because the Gravity Series 800 combines automated airflow with app control, you get precise temperature management without constant babysitting. You set temps on the DigitalFan panel or via smart connectivity; the fan modulates airflow to hit targets fast and hold steady. The app shows real-time temps, lets you schedule ramps, and logs cooks so you stay hands-off. The built-in gauge gives a quick visual, while the included meat probe needs proper probe calibration for accurate doneness. You’ll appreciate reliable PID-like behavior at startup and long cooks, but verify probe readings before serving to avoid surprises. The site also offers accessories and guidance for using wireless thermometers to improve outdoor cooking with the grill, including how to pair probes and interpret readings for consistent results with wireless thermometers.
What It Cooks Best: Use Cases, Recipes, and Tips for Grill/Smoker/Griddle
Break out the recipe book: the Gravity Series 800 excels as a three-in-one cooker—smoking low-and-slow brisket or pork shoulder, searing steaks at high heat on the cast-iron grates, and making flat-top favorites like breakfast hash or quesadillas on the griddle insert. You’ll use the smoker for bark-rich ribs and unexpected smoker desserts like apple cobbler; maintain 225°F steady for long cooks. For steak, hit 700°F fast for a perfect sear, then finish indirect. The griddle handles weeknight grilling and breakfast runs. Tips: probe for doneness, preheat the griddle, and rely on the app to free you to roam. For consistent results across cooking modes, pay attention to pellet selection and keep your hopper stocked.
Buy or Skip? Value, Comparisons, and Who Should Choose the Gravity Series 800
If you want a single cooker that genuinely handles smoking, high-heat searing, and griddle work without constant babysitting, the Gravity Series 800 is worth a close look. You get rapid heat-up, strong temperature control, and 800 sq in of versatile surface — compelling for its price point if you value multi-functionality. Consider portability options: it’s bulky but wheeled, so it travels, but not like a tabletop grill. The accessory ecosystem is growing (griddle, probes, racks) which extends value. Remember maintenance needs: hopper, ash, and cast-iron care add chores. Buy if freedom and performance outweigh size and upkeep. Our store focuses on compact propane solutions and accessories that complement larger multi-function cookers like this one.
Some Questions Answered
How Hard Is the Gravity Series 800 to Assemble Out of the Box?
Pretty straightforward — you won’t struggle. Quick setup gets you cooking fast; most panels and legs bolt on with clear steps. You’ll want a Tool checklist: socket wrench, screwdriver, and pliers. Follow the digital control and probe wiring instructions carefully. Expect about 45–60 minutes if you work methodically. Stay critical on fitment and gasket seating, but you’ll be free to enjoy the large cooking area and smart features soon.
What Warranty and Customer Support Options Does Masterbuilt Provide?
You get a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship for a set period, and you’ll need proof of purchase to file a claim. For help, Masterbuilt’s customer support offers phone, email, and online resources including FAQs and parts ordering. If you value independence, don’t rely solely on warranty—inspect components, register the product, keep receipts, and contact customer support quickly to resolve issues or request replacement parts.
How Often and How Easy Is Routine Maintenance and Cleaning?
You’ll need routine maintenance every few uses and deeper cleaning monthly; it’s generally easy cleanup. Wipe grates and trays after each cook, empty ash and pellets weekly if you use it often, and do periodic checkups on seals, the DigitalFan, probe and app connectivity every few months. You’ll remove and scrub the griddle or grates as needed. The design keeps upkeep straightforward so you’ll stay free to cook.
Can the Unit Run on Natural Gas or Only on Propane?
Only propane is supported out of the box; it won’t run on natural gas without modification. You’ll need a proper natural gas conversion kit and a qualified technician to install it, or you risk unsafe operation and voiding warranties. Check Masterbuilt’s official parts and instructions before buying a conversion kit. If you want freedom from refill hassles, factor in installation cost, gas line access, and local code permits before converting.
Are There Common Replacement Parts or Accessories Available Aftermarket?
Yes — you can find common replacement parts and aftermarket accessories. You’ll locate replacement grates, spare igniters, extra porcelain smoking racks, griddles, and probes from third-party sellers. Check part compatibility with your model number before buying. You’ll want quality cast-iron replacements and OEM-equivalent igniters to avoid performance drops. Shop specialist grill retailers, maker forums, and online marketplaces to maintain independence and keep your unit running reliably.
