Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker review

Description

Key Features of the Masterbuilt® Gravity Series® 1050 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker

I was genuinely intrigued by the Masterbuilt® Gravity Series® 1050, especially because it combines the charm of charcoal grilling with the precision of digital control. This grill isn’t your everyday outdoor cooker; it’s packed with features that make cooking feel like a seamless, professional experience. Whether I was grilling steaks or experimenting with smoked ribs, the 1,050 square inches of cooking space gave me all the room I needed to cook for my family and a few hungry neighbors. The build quality also stood out, with its sturdy black exterior and thoughtful design.

What got my attention almost immediately is the GravityFed charcoal hopper, which uses—you guessed it—gravity to keep the charcoal burning consistently. I tested it with both lump charcoal and briquettes, and the results were impressive. It managed to run for hours without needing constant refueling, which is a blessing when you’re multitasking during a barbecue.

Performance and Temperature Control

One of the standout features of this grill is how quickly it heats up. I mean, reaching 225°F in just 8 minutes and 700°F in 15 minutes is game-changing. I used to dread the long wait times with my previous grill, but this one flips that narrative. The DigitalFan technology is a lifesaver, as it maintains the cooking temperature with incredible accuracy. I didn’t have to hover nearby, nervously adjusting vents or poking at the charcoal.

The built-in meat probe thermometer was another win for me. I tested it out while smoking a brisket, and it gave me precise readings without the usual guesswork. Coupled with the digital control panel, I felt like I had full authority over the cooking process.

Also, can we talk about the Masterbuilt app? I controlled the temperature, set timers, and even monitored the food’s progress—all from my phone. For someone like me who enjoys mingling with guests during a barbecue, the app felt like a game-changer. However, I wish the app interface was slightly more intuitive. There were moments when it lagged, especially when reconnecting to the grill.

Positives

• Large cooking space of 1,050 square inches accommodates large meals effortlessly.
• The GravityFed charcoal hopper ensures consistent fuel burning for hours.
• DigitalFan technology keeps the temperature stable without constant manual adjustments.
• Reaches 700°F in just 15 minutes, perfect for searing steaks.
• The Masterbuilt app allows remote control and monitoring, adding convenience.

Design and Build Quality

Let me say, this is one sturdy piece of equipment. The stainless steel side and front shelves were incredibly handy for food prep and holding tools. I found the reversible cast-iron grates to be a thoughtful addition, as they allow for both high-heat searing and low-and-slow smoking. The porcelain-coated warming racks? Absolute lifesavers when I had multiple dishes going. However, I did notice that the grill is quite heavy, which made moving it around a bit of a chore. A set of more robust wheels could’ve been a nice touch.

Another small hiccup was the built-in temperature gauge, which sometimes gave readings that didn’t match the meat probe or app. It wasn’t a dealbreaker since I relied on the probe more, but it’s worth mentioning.

Negative Attributes

• The weight of the grill makes it difficult to move around without help.
• The app interface could use some refinements for smoother user experience.
• The built-in temperature gauge isn’t always 100% reliable.

Who Is This Grill For?

I’d say this grill is a perfect fit for anyone who loves the flavor of charcoal cooking but doesn’t want the hassle of constant babysitting. If you’re someone who enjoys experimenting with both grilling and smoking techniques, you’ll likely appreciate the versatility. Families, barbecue enthusiasts, and even those who host frequent outdoor gatherings will benefit from the large cooking area and ease of use. However, if portability is a priority for you, this might not be the ideal choice due to its size and weight.

Competing Products

While the Masterbuilt Gravity Series® 1050 is an impressive piece of equipment, there are some notable competitors in the market. For instance, the Weber Smokefire EX6 offers similar app connectivity and digital temperature controls. However, I’ve noticed that Weber’s pellet system doesn’t quite capture the authentic charcoal flavor. On the other hand, the Traeger Ironwood 885 excels in its wood pellet system but lacks the quick heat-up time that this grill offers.

Compared to traditional charcoal grills like the Big Green Egg, the Masterbuilt product stands out for its ease of use. The DigitalFan technology and app integration make it significantly more user-friendly. However, I’ll admit that the Big Green Egg has a slight edge in terms of heat retention due to its ceramic build.

Value for Money

This grill strikes a good balance between high-end features and affordability. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the combination of digital controls, app connectivity, and versatile cooking methods justifies the investment. I’d argue that for what it offers, it delivers excellent price-to-quality ratio. You’re essentially paying for convenience, precision, and an elevated grilling experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just getting into outdoor cooking, this grill brings a lot to the table—literally. While there are some areas for improvement, the Masterbuilt Gravity Series® 1050 offers a unique blend of modern technology and the timeless appeal of charcoal grilling.