Lol! Thanks for Watching Bill! I’ve done a dozen cooks on the 980. I keep it clean! Please don’t judge me because I keep my grills clean! Thanks again for Watching!
@@TomHorsmanAmateurBBQ evidently our friend Bill doesn’t possess OCD qualities like we do. I grill on my Weber 4-5 times per 7 days. It’s CLEAN. It will remain that way albeit it takes work to keep it that way. Keep up the good work!
I did 22lbs of wings on my 980. And the grease trap worked flawlessly. The grease catch was almost completely full when I emptied it. I never had one flare up the entire cook. I have always used Weber kettles but this 980 is outstanding so far.
I recently put a comment that talked shit about the Char Griller 980, I want to take that shit back. I failed to read about how using wood may increase temperature as well as that you never add more than 1lb. of wood to a full hopper. Well, I added 3lbs of Hickory to a half full hopper. Discovering my error I want to say this, this grill/smoker is amazing. It maintains such a good temperature and the food is OMG good. You answered my recently deleted review and I just want to say I was wrong and thank you for helping me decide on which Grill/Smoker to buy!
I learned more in this one video than all the other ones combined. I almost picked up a Masterbuilt 1050 today but wanted to do some more research. Now I'm looking at the Char-grillers.
Excellent review! Thank you. I currently own MB 1050 and am overwhelmingly pleased with it. Love the control of the temperature and the flavor of charcoal. But I do know that it has some shortcomings in its design. Being that it was the first of its kind, I can't really complain. I also know that because of these shortcomings, along with the fact that I haven't done many of the mods, I will have to purchase another gravity-fed smoker/grill in a few years. I love cooking on the MB 1050 so much that, when the time comes, I will be purchasing the same technology. That's why I'm so happy to see another model from a different company. I too believe competition drives tech & quality. So my next gravity-fed charcoal smoker will be much improved and last much longer🤞. Thanks again
I’m going with the Char-Griller. My Lowe’s sells them for $599. I’ve seen many reviews on the Masterbuilt and the burn chamber can’t handle the heat. You need to buy an insert to save the burn chamber. It’s crazy how you need to spend $200+ on extras for the Masterbuilt. The extras extend the life of the grill. The Char-Griller seems to have learned a few things from the Masterbuilt. The only extra you need for the Char-Griller is heat gaskets around the top and bottom doors on the charcoal stack.
I purchased the Char-Griller after seeing this video without looking at the reviews on their website. I assembled it so i know it was put together correctly. I seasoned it according to the instructions, cooked wings on it to try it out. Next cook was ribs and butts. 2 hrs in erf code no fan, unplugged re-set worked again for about an hr. ERF code again, no resetting. Took apart the fan, it was warped and partially melted. They wanted to send me parts but i took it back to Lowe's. This smoker should have an aluminum flapper and a metal fan and next year it might! i did not use any wood strictly lump charcoal. Read the reviews on their web site everyone is having the same issues.
Really good review. Goes through systematically on each of the specs for each unit side by side, making for a comparison that is easy to digest and remember. I really appreciated the removal of the heat diffusers in order to demonstrate how easy/difficult cleaning the units would be. Nicely done.
Thanks for the video. The 1st time I used the grill I added a few pieces of wood in the ash tray as the directions stated. For the 2nd time, I added a few pieces of wood in the ash tray but this time the silicone cover leading to the fan burned. This caused the digital display to show "Open." By this time, I had a brisket on the grill. Because the grill was malfunctioning, I lost a $57 brisket. I called Char Griller for guidance. After buying the grill at Lowe's and having them assemble it, I'm pissed that Char Griller would NOT reimburse me for the brisket. If I had been using the grill multiple times before this malfunction, I would not think of asking them for a refund. This was the 2nd cook in 2 weeks! Char Griller is going to send me the parts and now I have to make the repair instead of Lowe's which is NOT my thing. Nov 21, 2021 Update Do NOT buy your grill directly from Char Griller! Buy it from Lowe's or another store that wants to satisfy their customers. If your grill malfunctions, simply return it to the retail outlet within the return policy dates and they will exchange it for a new one. Do NOT follow Char Griller's manual guidance to contact them instead of the store you bought it!!! After researching complaints against Char Griller, it seems everything boils down to "Operator Error." The so called "warranty" is worthless. They make you pay for the parts to repair the grill. Since I am getting a new grill from Lowe's, I will follow Grill and Smoke BBQ's guidance on getting the "new" flap so it doesn't ruin grill #2.
Thank you so much for the tip in a previous video about putting a folded tin foil gasket under the top loading door of the charcoal hopper. It was taking 5-6 hours for the charcoal to go out completely once done cooking. With the tin foil gasket that dropped by half to 2-3 hours allowing me to save a good amount of charcoal.
I was finally able to find a 980. Had to drive 2 states over to get it lol. I'm upgrading from my camp chef pellet smoker. I can already tell from the burn in, I'm going to love this 980 over a pellet smoker. Temps were a little high at first but after 30min it stabilized to hold a constant 350. Your channel helped me quite a bit in making my decision
This is a solid comparison. I have the 560, but I really wanted the Char-Griller. It wasn't available when I was ready to buy, so I went with the Masterbuilt. I really have no complaints about the grill itself; I've smoked a porkbutt, ribs and chicken as well as grilled chicken, burgers, sausage and vegetables. The temperature control is good and I rarely worry about it getting too hot or losing heat after a long cook. My biggest issue with it is the Masterbuilt app. It's just not good. Connecting the controller via bluetooth is pretty straightforward, but I haven't been able to connect it to Wi-Fi which is the only way to update the controller. All-in-all, I've been happy with the grill and hope they can release an updated app that alleviates these issues.
Just started watching your videos when I saw this came out and must say your reviews are some of the best if not the absolute best out there. Keep up the great work.
Having had a MB 560 & 1050 then recently a CG 980 (with great hesitation to actually buy anything CG). Had high hopes I’d be wrong about CG, but I wasn’t impressed and took it back , brought home another MB 1050. The MB runs precise temps like a finely tuned machine, isn’t finicky for using lump & lots of wood and most importantly trustable.
Very clear and concise comparison. I acutally ordered a CG 980 based off your comparison. Its coming later this week and excited to smoke some meats. Wonderful content btw.
I agree, I have the 560 also, and my firebox has burned away to expose the insulation. I don't trust that that stuff is not harmful as masterbuilt claims. I have not cooked on it since. I will be looking at the char griller or I will build my own. Excellent review, by the way. Thank you.
I have the MB 560 and love how easy it is to use and the quality of the food. However, I am concerned with how long it will last. About 10 years ago, I bought a Char-Griller Duo (two bbq's on one frame-one was propane and one was charcoal. I also bought the side fire box for the charcoal side). I learned a lot about smoking meat with the charcoal side even though it was not air tight and was very hard to control temperatures. It was nice and shinny when new, but quickly rusted and parts stopped working. I would need reassurance that Char-Griller have improved the overall quality and longevity of their grills before I would buy the 980.
I have a Weber Q for gas, kettle for rotisserie and quicker hotter cooks and a WSM 18 for smoking. I am waiting until these have proven long term reliability before buying. While this seems better built, Charbroils in the past have quickly rusted out.
Was walking into home depot about a month ago. They had the Masterbuilt 560 already assembled and on sale for $300.00. I bought it immediately. Been loving it, so easy to cook with. Only thing is I had to order the heat manifold cover Mod, it’s NECESSARY!!!!
I have the 1050 and I got it because of the size of the 2 shelves. All the real-estate up there for long smokes without concern for burnt food. I think the hopper and fan placement are superior on the chargriller as well as the heat manifold and diffuser. Now we need a 3rd player to take the best from both and make a super grill.
Thanks for the indepth review Tom! It really helped explain the differences between the 2 smokers. I just saw the Char-griller at Lowes the other day and it renewed my interest in the gravity style charcoal units.
They need to make a smaller Char-broiler. Just not enough room in the outdoor kitchen. I thought the Masterbuilt was built really flimsy and did not buy one. I am a Weber and Campchef guy but would love a gravity feed. Thanks for the video!
I’ve always associated Char Griils with cheap low quality products. It would take a lot of convincing for me to believe that they now have something can stand the test of time. Thank you for your excellent reviews and videos, Tom!
I have had the Char Griller Duo for several years and quality is indeed an issue for Char Griller. They are entry level grills and not made for the long haul.
I bought a Chargriller 2 years ago and it's already trash. Barrel warped and the middle grate falls into the ashes. I'll never by Chargriller again. Cheap and low quality
Just found your channel yesterday for this exact reason! I stumbled across the Char-Griller gravity fed when I was searching for the Master Built but forgot the brand! I wanted the 800 with the griddle but it's all sold out. Thanks for the comparison. Looks like it's going to be Char-Griller for me!
Tom, I have had masterbuilt for about 2 years. I agree with the bottom shelf sear grate I don't cook on it. I use it for drip pan. I have had 2 grease fires which ruined the factory thermometer and a tomahawk steak. Had no idea you could take the heat baffle out. With that said I love the masterbuilt. Soon as I can find a chargriller I'm going to get one. Enjoy your channel and always look forward to watching. Peace Luke T
I hate that you have to order the additional grates to take advantage of a 3 rack setup on the Masterbuilt, THAT BEING SAID, I am loving my Masterbuilt so far! The gravity smoker is definitely the next best thing to a true offset in flavor profile. I just posted a vid of my latest cook with the Masterbuilt and was not disappointed with it at all. I'm sure the Char-Griller one is great also but no point for me to own another gravity smoker. If anything, I may upgrade later to the 1050 for more real estate. Cheers, Tom!
Great review--you dug deep into both grills and showed me new things to consider. This will definitely help me in making my decision. One question: you had lots of grills in the background. Do you own a grill store?
By Akron do you mean Akorn? Not trying to be a smartass, I'm just wondering. I've been a big kamado fan for years. Kamados are great, but this looks a lot better!
Thanks for the review. I agree the bread box style Masterbuilt hood is really cool. But I bet Char Grill leveraged cost and carried over the same hood as its popular side burn models. That could explain the better value. One other design improvement on the Char Griller is the even heat due to the different size cut outs on the heat Mansfield.
Great video Tom, thank you! That white board around the burn box is a ceramic refractory fiber board of some type. Kaowool, marinite, one might be called superwool, or similar.
Thought I was sold on the Masterbuilt but man that Char-Griller seems better in almost every way. I still want to like the MB because of the style but that's a hard sell after seeing this video. I hope Weber joins this market.
Thanks for the video. I definitely want one or the other at one point. Holding out for the companies to continue to improve. I like the bread box style of the Masterbuilt, but like the design features you covered about the Char Griller.
Regarding the Masterbuilt WiFI - First off, only supports 2.4ghz. Second, the combined length of the SSID and password must be 15 characters or less (this has been corrected in the new 3.x version) Also helps if the wireless router is really close to the Gravity . Had my 1050 for about 2 weeks now - love it...
@@TomHorsmanAmateurBBQ Oh, sorry, I was referring to the Old Country Pits Gravity, which I had heard wasn't shipping, but their website is now saying it's in stock.
So basically Char Griller has improved on nearly almost every complaint that people have with the Masterbuilt which is what a new product from a rival brand should do.
Great video - was debating which one to get until watching this video. Going with chargriller because of the better quality grease trap and charcoal chimney. Thank you
I bought my MB 1050 about a year ago. I love it, but I have the same darn complaints. Looks like chargrilled bought an MB griller and improved on it weak points. I have had several grease fires and they always happened when I didn’t clean below before my cook.
Thanks for the video. I have a Kamado Joe, which I do like, but have been wanting to switch to a pellet grill for more quick startup and ease of use. I ran across these and they seem interesting too.
Thank you Tom...i still love my 560..one of the ones who has installed all the mods that Luke or Nathan has out..plus the front shelf..the gen 2 560 has a better charcoal grate and better switches..
Great review. These are game changers for sure. I can’t wait to get one. You did a fantastic job. If I was a smoker business I would send you grills to review. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks for posting this, its great to learn more about these grills, they are not very popular in the UK. I had a question if you had time. - What is the smallest amount of charcoal you could use for a cook, given I think it burns whatever you put in. I normally use a direct heat charcoal two or three times a week and the midweek cooks are just quick couple of steaks/burgers/whatever and use around half a weber chimney starter in charcoal.
Thanks for Watching! You are incorrect, when you are complete with your cook you put the sliders back in and close the back vent, leave the hood down and it snuffs out the charcoal
I would choose the char griller based on build quality alone. The only thing I like better about the MB is the upper shelves that that pull out, rather than the single half shelf the chargriller uses.
Both of those grills look really cool, it seems like chargriller has thought it out a bit more, but like you say competition leads to innovation. Awesome review between the two Tom!
My question on these is if I load the hopper and just cook a couple steaks, is the rest of the charcoal wasted by smouldering away? Would you just load the same you would for a normal cook on my traditional charcoal grill? I'd love to be able to load the hopper, grill, and have charcoal left in the hopper for the next night. And this review was as complete as any review I've seen. 👏👏👏
Thanks for Watching Bobby! Yes, when you are done cooking you put the slider in close all the doors and the vent and it snuffs out the charcoal so you have it left for the next cook
Correct me if I am wrong, but my understanding is you can’t sear a steak by baking it at 700 F. You either sear it by direct radiant heat from a charcoal fire or direct contact with a cast iron skillet. It looks to me like the best way to sear a steak in either one of these would be to put a skillet or grill grates and bring them to temp.
Thanks for Watching Jeff! That’s an excellent question ! The high heat that’s produced by both grills heats the cast iron grates to the point that they can sear, this is from a charcoal fire and if there is any fat rendering off that will produce flame and assist with the sear. All I know is that it works! Thanks again for Watching!
I believe the radiant heat that heats the cast iron does the same to the meat, not going to be the same as an open flame. But works pretty darn nice. Thanks again for Watching!
Wow great job Tom,, I'm so very glad you did this you make great videos 📹.. and you are very good with your Knowledge thank you very much for your time Tom..
The char griller with the removable charcoal sleeve,real fire brick,and no sensor on the cooking chamber makes it seem like a better product. Just based on those few differences
I am a little late in watching this, but a great review as always. I would love to see Weber release a better quality version of this style of grill, but we all know it would likely carry a hefty price tag.
@@TomHorsmanAmateurBBQ you bet sir! I think I may sit this one out for a year or so and see what the improvements to the entry level gravity feed smokers looks like. I looked at the Char Griller this morning at my local Menards and it looks impressive, but I've been bitten by being the Guinea Pig in the past. I'm certain the 2nd gen of each will be vastly improved!
I have a Masterbuilt 560, it’s a game changer in the grill game. However, in the last 4 months mine has been breaking down frequently and has been almost unusable. I think I may be switching to the chargriller, hopefully it is more reliable
Thanks for the review tom I see the quality of the Char-Griller there is no comparison I always thought Masterbuilt quality was very low at bat I can't find Char-Griller anywhere
Is Chargriller airflow better through the hopper? On my 560 a lot of hot air (and ash) blows right back out the sides of the fan hole in the bottom. I imagine this gets worse when you further constrict the charcoal grate. Hence why the gaps are so big on the 560: to keep air flowing. Your 560 lid probably doesn't turn off because the switch melted. How have you not melted you hopper top switch as well? I have had two 560's and that switch only lasted about 10 700 deg cooks on each. Looks like Char-griller solved a few problems and obviously did a little more testing, but I see others that remain: Fixed: 1. Wifi. Masterbuilt's goof is inexcusable and I only recommend people get the 560 for < $250. 2. Air vent more weatherproof and adjustable! 3. Firebrick is obvious and recognizable material 4. Fan relocated so that it is less likely to melt or start on fire (This happened to my first one) Remains: 1. Cheap plastic refrigerator switches still in locations 2. Charcoal burning issues (low air flow and big grate gaps on 560, small ash pan on Chargriller). Seems like trade offs still need to be made. On a happy note, it is usually pretty easy to return a 'defective' product that melted its safety sensors even a few months after purchase. I am waiting for the Weber version, or I will move up to a ceramic egg with fireboard if there isn't a great gravity when my 560 kicks.
Thanks for Watching! I. Not sure I haven’t melted any of the safety switch’s, I agree with your assessment, I would also like to see Weber make one. Thanks again for Watching and commenting!
![[OFFICIAL] Char-Griller Gravity Fed 980 Charcoal Grill Burn In & Season Process!](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/WxWDjD0a0K0/mqdefault.jpg)
This DEEP DIVE IS WHAT EVERY PITMASTER WANTED> GREAT JOB SIR!
Thanks for watching Eddie! I appreciate the feedback! Thank you!
This is the clearest and most comprehensive explanation of these kinds of grills that I've ever seen, thanks so much!
Thanks Cam! I appreciate the feedback!
looks like he did one cook on the char griller..too clean to be a lot of cooks..waste of time here
Lol! Thanks for Watching Bill! I’ve done a dozen cooks on the 980. I keep it clean! Please don’t judge me because I keep my grills clean! Thanks again for Watching!
@@TomHorsmanAmateurBBQ evidently our friend Bill doesn’t possess OCD qualities like we do. I grill on my Weber 4-5 times per 7 days. It’s CLEAN. It will remain that way albeit it takes work to keep it that way. Keep up the good work!
Thanks for Watching Ron!
I did 22lbs of wings on my 980. And the grease trap worked flawlessly. The grease catch was almost completely full when I emptied it. I never had one flare up the entire cook. I have always used Weber kettles but this 980 is outstanding so far.
Thanks for Watching! Appreciate the feedback! That’s great to hear!
I recently put a comment that talked shit about the Char Griller 980, I want to take that shit back. I failed to read about how using wood may increase temperature as well as that you never add more than 1lb. of wood to a full hopper. Well, I added 3lbs of Hickory to a half full hopper. Discovering my error I want to say this, this grill/smoker is amazing. It maintains such a good temperature and the food is OMG good. You answered my recently deleted review and I just want to say I was wrong and thank you for helping me decide on which Grill/Smoker to buy!
Thanks for Watching! Glad it is working out for you!
I learned more in this one video than all the other ones combined.
I almost picked up a Masterbuilt 1050 today but wanted to do some more research. Now I'm looking at the Char-grillers.
Thanks for watching! I will have a review coming soon of the 980 vs 1050
Excellent review! Thank you. I currently own MB 1050 and am overwhelmingly pleased with it. Love the control of the temperature and the flavor of charcoal. But I do know that it has some shortcomings in its design. Being that it was the first of its kind, I can't really complain. I also know that because of these shortcomings, along with the fact that I haven't done many of the mods, I will have to purchase another gravity-fed smoker/grill in a few years. I love cooking on the MB 1050 so much that, when the time comes, I will be purchasing the same technology. That's why I'm so happy to see another model from a different company. I too believe competition drives tech & quality. So my next gravity-fed charcoal smoker will be much improved and last much longer🤞. Thanks again
Thanks for Watching Stafford! I appreciate the feedback!
I’m going with the Char-Griller. My Lowe’s sells them for $599. I’ve seen many reviews on the Masterbuilt and the burn chamber can’t handle the heat. You need to buy an insert to save the burn chamber. It’s crazy how you need to spend $200+ on extras for the Masterbuilt. The extras extend the life of the grill. The Char-Griller seems to have learned a few things from the Masterbuilt. The only extra you need for the Char-Griller is heat gaskets around the top and bottom doors on the charcoal stack.
Thanks for Watching Rich! I agree!
I purchased the Char-Griller after seeing this video without looking at the reviews on their website. I assembled it so i know it was put together correctly. I seasoned it according to the instructions, cooked wings on it to try it out. Next cook was ribs and butts. 2 hrs in erf code no fan, unplugged re-set worked again for about an hr. ERF code again, no resetting. Took apart the fan, it was warped and partially melted. They wanted to send me parts but i took it back to Lowe's. This smoker should have an aluminum flapper and a metal fan and next year it might! i did not use any wood strictly lump charcoal. Read the reviews on their web site everyone is having the same issues.
Thanks for watching Raymond! Appreciate the feedback
Tough job to pick a winner from these two grills. Appreciate your honesty. Always comes through. Keep up the good work!
Thanks Tom! I appreciate you Watching and rot your feedback! Thank you!
Awesome review and comparison. I was unaware of any other gravity grills until your video. Thanks for all you do and keep up the good work!
Thanks Erik! I appreciate you Watching!
Really good review. Goes through systematically on each of the specs for each unit side by side, making for a comparison that is easy to digest and remember. I really appreciated the removal of the heat diffusers in order to demonstrate how easy/difficult cleaning the units would be. Nicely done.
Thanks for Watching Tom! I appreciate the feedback!
Early adopters like myself will always have buyers envy when the new ones come on the market.
Thanks for Watching!
I'm holdin out till they come out with the next round
Thanks for Watching!
This is a very well thought out and nicely done comparison and breakdown of what these two cookers are all about. Excellent video, Tom! 👍
Thanks for watching! I appreciate the feedback!
Thanks for the video. The 1st time I used the grill I added a few pieces of wood in the ash tray as the directions stated. For the 2nd time, I added a few pieces of wood in the ash tray but this time the silicone cover leading to the fan burned. This caused the digital display to show "Open." By this time, I had a brisket on the grill. Because the grill was malfunctioning, I lost a $57 brisket. I called Char Griller for guidance. After buying the grill at Lowe's and having them assemble it, I'm pissed that Char Griller would NOT reimburse me for the brisket. If I had been using the grill multiple times before this malfunction, I would not think of asking them for a refund. This was the 2nd cook in 2 weeks! Char Griller is going to send me the parts and now I have to make the repair instead of Lowe's which is NOT my thing.
Nov 21, 2021 Update
Do NOT buy your grill directly from Char Griller! Buy it from Lowe's or another store that wants to satisfy their customers. If your grill malfunctions, simply return it to the retail outlet within the return policy dates and they will exchange it for a new one. Do NOT follow Char Griller's manual guidance to contact them instead of the store you bought it!!! After researching complaints against Char Griller, it seems everything boils down to "Operator Error." The so called "warranty" is worthless. They make you pay for the parts to repair the grill. Since I am getting a new grill from Lowe's, I will follow Grill and Smoke BBQ's guidance on getting the "new" flap so it doesn't ruin grill #2.
Thanks for Watching Barry! I appreciate the feedback
Thank you so much for the tip in a previous video about putting a folded tin foil gasket under the top loading door of the charcoal hopper. It was taking 5-6 hours for the charcoal to go out completely once done cooking. With the tin foil gasket that dropped by half to 2-3 hours allowing me to save a good amount of charcoal.
Thanks for Watching!
I was finally able to find a 980. Had to drive 2 states over to get it lol. I'm upgrading from my camp chef pellet smoker. I can already tell from the burn in, I'm going to love this 980 over a pellet smoker. Temps were a little high at first but after 30min it stabilized to hold a constant 350. Your channel helped me quite a bit in making my decision
Thanks for watching! Congrats!
I've had my 560 for over a year and Not sure how long my fire box will go. It's warped pretty bad but it's still working great. Great video. 👍
Thanks for Watching Josh! Good feedback, Thank you
I picked up the Char-Griller. My deciding factor was size/price. Thanks for the great videos.
Thanks for Watching Rusty! Congrats on the new cooker!
This is a solid comparison. I have the 560, but I really wanted the Char-Griller. It wasn't available when I was ready to buy, so I went with the Masterbuilt. I really have no complaints about the grill itself; I've smoked a porkbutt, ribs and chicken as well as grilled chicken, burgers, sausage and vegetables. The temperature control is good and I rarely worry about it getting too hot or losing heat after a long cook. My biggest issue with it is the Masterbuilt app. It's just not good. Connecting the controller via bluetooth is pretty straightforward, but I haven't been able to connect it to Wi-Fi which is the only way to update the controller. All-in-all, I've been happy with the grill and hope they can release an updated app that alleviates these issues.
Thanks for Watching Robert! I appreciate the feedback!
Just started watching your videos when I saw this came out and must say your reviews are some of the best if not the absolute best out there. Keep up the great work.
Thanks Richard! I appreciate you Watching!
Char-griller put in some work this year and had a great new line of a bunch of stuff. I'm sold on char-griller for sure, cheers Tom!
Thanks for Watching! I agree!
Having had a MB 560 & 1050 then recently a CG 980 (with great hesitation to actually buy anything CG). Had high hopes I’d be wrong about CG, but I wasn’t impressed and took it back , brought home another MB 1050. The MB runs precise temps like a finely tuned machine, isn’t finicky for using lump & lots of wood and most importantly trustable.
Thanks for watching
Very clear and concise comparison. I acutally ordered a CG 980 based off your comparison. Its coming later this week and excited to smoke some meats. Wonderful content btw.
Thanks for watching Tim! I appreciate the feedback!
I agree, I have the 560 also, and my firebox has burned away to expose the insulation. I don't trust that that stuff is not harmful as masterbuilt claims. I have not cooked on it since. I will be looking at the char griller or I will build my own. Excellent review, by the way. Thank you.
Thanks for Watching Ron!
I have the MB 560 and love how easy it is to use and the quality of the food. However, I am concerned with how long it will last. About 10 years ago, I bought a Char-Griller Duo (two bbq's on one frame-one was propane and one was charcoal. I also bought the side fire box for the charcoal side). I learned a lot about smoking meat with the charcoal side even though it was not air tight and was very hard to control temperatures. It was nice and shinny when new, but quickly rusted and parts stopped working. I would need reassurance that Char-Griller have improved the overall quality and longevity of their grills before I would buy the 980.
Thanks for Watching Dave! Time will tell with both units, Thanks for your feedback, I appreciate it!
I have a Weber Q for gas, kettle for rotisserie and quicker hotter cooks and a WSM 18 for smoking. I am waiting until these have proven long term reliability before buying. While this seems better built, Charbroils in the past have quickly rusted out.
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the great review. Just found out we are getting this for a wedding gift and i am so excited. I have a first gen smoke fire 4
Thanks for Watching! Congrats!
Was walking into home depot about a month ago. They had the Masterbuilt 560 already assembled and on sale for $300.00. I bought it immediately. Been loving it, so easy to cook with. Only thing is I had to order the heat manifold cover Mod, it’s NECESSARY!!!!
Thanks for Watching! Funny you should mention that... I have new mod coming up that will be a heat manifold heat diffuser diy for about $25.00
@@TomHorsmanAmateurBBQ you waited until I paid $75 for one to mention this 😂😂. Good vid by the way 👍🏾
Thanks again for Watching! Sorry about that....
I have the 1050 and I got it because of the size of the 2 shelves. All the real-estate up there for long smokes without concern for burnt food. I think the hopper and fan placement are superior on the chargriller as well as the heat manifold and diffuser. Now we need a 3rd player to take the best from both and make a super grill.
Thanks for Watching Johnny! Yes! That would awesome !
Oh man oh man! Awesome video, thanks Tom! I’m hoping they bring this Char Griller model out in Australia.
Thanks for Watching Lucas! I hope they do!
Awesome comparison. Just looking at the build, I would go with the same one you picked Tom. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching JP! I appreciate you stopping by!
Thanks for the indepth review Tom! It really helped explain the differences between the 2 smokers. I just saw the Char-griller at Lowes the other day and it renewed my interest in the gravity style charcoal units.
Thanks for watching Mark! I appreciate the feedback!
I’m getting the Char-grill because of you!!! Thanks sir!!!
Thanks for watching!
I'm in the market for a gravity-fed and this is a fantastic comparison. Thank you!
Thanks for Watching Joey!
They need to make a smaller Char-broiler. Just not enough room in the outdoor kitchen. I thought the Masterbuilt was built really flimsy and did not buy one. I am a Weber and Campchef guy but would love a gravity feed. Thanks for the video!
Thanks for Watching Robert! I agree! I think a mid sized gravity from CG would do well. I also think a true gravity vertical would do very well also
I think this is where you really stand out! Always great reviews. Thanks so much
Thanks for watching Wade! I appreciate you watching!
The Char-Griller is my next grill. I already have the Double-Griller and have had it for 3 years now.
Thanks for Watching Tyrone!
Great Job Tom! You answered all of my questions with one video. Thanks for your review. Time and money saved.
Thanks for watching David!
I’ve always associated Char Griils with cheap low quality products. It would take a lot of convincing for me to believe that they now have something can stand the test of time. Thank you for your excellent reviews and videos, Tom!
Thanks for Alan! I appreciate your feedback
I have had the Char Griller Duo for several years and quality is indeed an issue for Char Griller. They are entry level grills and not made for the long haul.
Thanks for Watching Alan! I appreciate the feedback
I bought a Chargriller 2 years ago and it's already trash. Barrel warped and the middle grate falls into the ashes. I'll never by Chargriller again. Cheap and low quality
Thanks for Watching Randy! Appreciate the feedback!
Good comparison. The lid switch on the masterbuilt shuts the fan off at 500*.
Thanks for watching Scott!
Great comparison Tom!
What a fun time to be into BBQ with cookers like these. Hoping Weber and other big names get into the gravity smoker game.
I hope so too! Thanks for Watching Mario!
Would be awesome if Weber offered one indeed.
First video of yours that I have watched. Great format, good information. Thanks.
Thanks for watching Nick!
I love my master built! I have been wanting to purchase a second grill for a bit now. I think I will be buying the char-grill
Thanks for Watching!
Another SUPER video Tom.. Great comparison. 👍 I enjoyed all the detail and thought put into this production. Smoke on!
Thanks for Watching Ken! I appreciate the feedback!
Just found your channel yesterday for this exact reason! I stumbled across the Char-Griller gravity fed when I was searching for the Master Built but forgot the brand! I wanted the 800 with the griddle but it's all sold out. Thanks for the comparison. Looks like it's going to be Char-Griller for me!
Thanks for Watching and subscribing Adam! Congrats on the new Cooker!
Tom,
I have had masterbuilt for about 2 years. I agree with the bottom shelf sear grate I don't cook on it. I use it for drip pan. I have had 2 grease fires which ruined the factory thermometer and a tomahawk steak. Had no idea you could take the heat baffle out. With that said I love the masterbuilt. Soon as I can find a chargriller I'm going to get one. Enjoy your channel and always look forward to watching.
Peace Luke T
Thanks for Watching Luke! You will notice the difference! It’s a game changer!
Tom you do a great job on your videos. Very informative.
Thanks for watching Okie!
Fantastic comparison. I will be getting a new grill in the next couple months and really like the Chargriller.
Thanks for watching Marty! The Char-Griller performs very well!
I went with the Masterbuilt 800.. finally found one and I think the flattop insert really makes it stand out.
Thanks for watching George! Congrats!
I hate that you have to order the additional grates to take advantage of a 3 rack setup on the Masterbuilt, THAT BEING SAID, I am loving my Masterbuilt so far! The gravity smoker is definitely the next best thing to a true offset in flavor profile. I just posted a vid of my latest cook with the Masterbuilt and was not disappointed with it at all. I'm sure the Char-Griller one is great also but no point for me to own another gravity smoker. If anything, I may upgrade later to the 1050 for more real estate. Cheers, Tom!
Thanks for watching! I appreciate your feedback!
Great review--you dug deep into both grills and showed me new things to consider. This will definitely help me in making my decision. One question: you had lots of grills in the background. Do you own a grill store?
Thanks for watching Mark! It’s all for the UA-cam channel
I just found out about the 980 and now I need one. I have the Akron. Thank you for this video. I enjoyed it
Thanks for Watching Charlie!
By Akron do you mean Akorn? Not trying to be a smartass, I'm just wondering. I've been a big kamado fan for years. Kamados are great, but this looks a lot better!
@@1300miles yep my bad forgot to spell check my smart phone
Thanks for the review. I agree the bread box style Masterbuilt hood is really cool. But I bet Char Grill leveraged cost and carried over the same hood as its popular side burn models. That could explain the better value. One other design improvement on the Char Griller is the even heat due to the different size cut outs on the heat Mansfield.
Thanks for Watching Gerald! I appreciate your insight, Thank you!
Great video as usual 😊
Thanks for Watching!
Thanks Tom for the great information...it takes a lot of effort to do this comparison so thank you!
Thanks for Watching Robert! I appreciate the kind words! Thank you!
Great comparison. I feel, like everyone else, competition is great for us consumers!
Yes it is! Thanks for Watching!
Great video Tom, thank you! That white board around the burn box is a ceramic refractory fiber board of some type. Kaowool, marinite, one might be called superwool, or similar.
Thanks for Watching Rick! Thanks for the info!
Nice breakdown of these Gravity Series products. Trying to recommend a smoker to my brother at this price point. Good job!!
Thanks for Watching Robert!
Thought I was sold on the Masterbuilt but man that Char-Griller seems better in almost every way. I still want to like the MB because of the style but that's a hard sell after seeing this video. I hope Weber joins this market.
Thanks for Watching Ian! I hope Weber does too!
I have the Masterbuilt 560 and it changed my competition bbq game.
Thanks for watching Gary! I wasn’t aware that people are using these at competitions! Thanks for the feedback
Fantastic review. Thanks for putting this together. Love my MB560... But that Char-Griller looks great!
Thanks for Watching Jeff! I appreciate the feedback!
Thanks for the video. I definitely want one or the other at one point. Holding out for the companies to continue to improve. I like the bread box style of the Masterbuilt, but like the design features you covered about the Char Griller.
Thanks for Watching Eric! It would be cool to combine the best of both!
Regarding the Masterbuilt WiFI - First off, only supports 2.4ghz. Second, the combined length of the SSID and password must be 15 characters or less (this has been corrected in the new 3.x version) Also helps if the wireless router is really close to the Gravity . Had my 1050 for about 2 weeks now - love it...
Thanks for Watching Tom! Thanks for the info!
Awesome comparison video Tom!
Thanks Rob! I appreciate you Watching!
Tom, you did a great review on the smokers! I like the Char-Griller. in Blue.
Thanks for Watching Nelson! The Blue one is from Lowe’s. The red one from Menards
Good stuff, Tom... Old Country makes a gravity-fed smoker too.
Thanks for Watching! Yes they do
Have they actually shipped any yet or are they all still back-ordered/no-show?
Thanks for watching! I’m not sure which one you’re referring to...if it’s the Char - Griller, some Lowe’s have them, better to check online
@@TomHorsmanAmateurBBQ Oh, sorry, I was referring to the Old Country Pits Gravity, which I had heard wasn't shipping, but their website is now saying it's in stock.
Awesome review from the land of grills! Thanks Tom, great job!
Thanks Mike! I appreciate you Watching!
Great video love it. I have a 20 yr old treater still work an just got rid of my mph gas grill I had 22 yrs
Thanks for Watching!
So basically Char Griller has improved on nearly almost every complaint that people have with the Masterbuilt which is what a new product from a rival brand should do.
Thanks for Watching Mark! Yes! You said it perfectly!
@@TomHorsmanAmateurBBQ never found your channel to a Char Griller video popped up on my page, so glad it did as your videos are great.
Thanks Mark! I appreciate the kind words! Thank you!
The lower propensity for a grease fire seems like a strong differentiator.
Thanks for watching!
Great video - was debating which one to get until watching this video. Going with chargriller because of the better quality grease trap and charcoal chimney. Thank you
Thanks for Watching Ramon! Good choice!
I bought my MB 1050 about a year ago. I love it, but I have the same darn complaints. Looks like chargrilled bought an MB griller and improved on it weak points. I have had several grease fires and they always happened when I didn’t clean below before my cook.
Thanks for watching Chris! I appreciate the feedback!
Thanks for the video. I have a Kamado Joe, which I do like, but have been wanting to switch to a pellet grill for more quick startup and ease of use. I ran across these and they seem interesting too.
Thanks for watching! They work very well!
Thank you Tom...i still love my 560..one of the ones who has installed all the mods that Luke or Nathan has out..plus the front shelf..the gen 2 560 has a better charcoal grate and better switches..
Thanks for Watching Billy! I appreciate the feedback! Thank you!
I think your pick was right one!
Thanks for Watching and for the feedback DS!
Great comparison video Tom. Thanks for putting it out here...
Thanks for Watching and commenting Bill!
Great comparison of these grills Tom. I agree with your conclusion and also feel that we’ll see more companies enter into this market.
Thanks Jay! Would love to see Weber jump into this
Tom, I was thinking the same or maybe SNS.
Yes! SNS would be perfect!
Great review. These are game changers for sure. I can’t wait to get one. You did a fantastic job. If I was a smoker business I would send you grills to review. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks for watching Blayne! I appreciate the kind words! Thank yoy
Thanks for posting this, its great to learn more about these grills, they are not very popular in the UK. I had a question if you had time. - What is the smallest amount of charcoal you could use for a cook, given I think it burns whatever you put in. I normally use a direct heat charcoal two or three times a week and the midweek cooks are just quick couple of steaks/burgers/whatever and use around half a weber chimney starter in charcoal.
Thanks for Watching! You are incorrect, when you are complete with your cook you put the sliders back in and close the back vent, leave the hood down and it snuffs out the charcoal
@@TomHorsmanAmateurBBQ thanks for the reply, so comparitively it can compete from an efficiency perspective then. Appreciate the input.
Yes, it does take about 2-3hrs to totally snuff out and cool down
I would choose the char griller based on build quality alone. The only thing I like better about the MB is the upper shelves that that pull out, rather than the single half shelf the chargriller uses.
Thanks for Watching! I agree.
Bought the Char Griller off of this review and I love it. I will never touch another Pellet grill again.
Thanks for Watching! Congrats on the New Char-Griller!
Both of those grills look really cool, it seems like chargriller has thought it out a bit more, but like you say competition leads to innovation. Awesome review between the two Tom!
Thanks for Watching Charlie! I appreciate it!
Been wanted to get a gravity feed smoker. Thanks for sharing this video. Chargriller for the win.
Thanks for watching Sparky!
those are the cleanest "used" grills I've ever seen in my life.
Thanks Bryan! I appreciate you watching!
My question on these is if I load the hopper and just cook a couple steaks, is the rest of the charcoal wasted by smouldering away? Would you just load the same you would for a normal cook on my traditional charcoal grill? I'd love to be able to load the hopper, grill, and have charcoal left in the hopper for the next night.
And this review was as complete as any review I've seen. 👏👏👏
Thanks for Watching Bobby! Yes, when you are done cooking you put the slider in close all the doors and the vent and it snuffs out the charcoal so you have it left for the next cook
As Tom mentioned, only add enough coals as needed so not to waste coals during snuffing. No need to fill it up to grill burgers...3-4 inches enough.
Correct me if I am wrong, but my understanding is you can’t sear a steak by baking it at 700 F. You either sear it by direct radiant heat from a charcoal fire or direct contact with a cast iron skillet. It looks to me like the best way to sear a steak in either one of these would be to put a skillet or grill grates and bring them to temp.
Thanks for Watching Jeff! That’s an excellent question ! The high heat that’s produced by both grills heats the cast iron grates to the point that they can sear, this is from a charcoal fire and if there is any fat rendering off that will produce flame and assist with the sear. All I know is that it works! Thanks again for Watching!
But does it only sear the part that touches the grate? A cast iron skillet or charcoal fire would sear the entire surface.
I believe the radiant heat that heats the cast iron does the same to the meat, not going to be the same as an open flame. But works pretty darn nice. Thanks again for Watching!
Could you post a video of you doing that? I hate to be a doubting Thomas, but...
From yesterday.....ua-cam.com/video/MHW4lV4eVho/v-deo.html
Wow great job Tom,, I'm so very glad you did this you make great videos 📹.. and you are very good with your Knowledge thank you very much for your time Tom..
Thanks Tom! I appreciate the feedback! Thanks for Watching!
Excellent review. Thanks for posting!
Thanks for watching Jack!
Thank you so very much,this video will make it easier to decide on , very informative,thank you for all you do
Thanks for watching Kenny!
The char griller with the removable charcoal sleeve,real fire brick,and no sensor on the cooking chamber makes it seem like a better product. Just based on those few differences
I Agree! Thanks for watching Johnny!
I am a little late in watching this, but a great review as always.
I would love to see Weber release a better quality version of this style of grill,
but we all know it would likely carry a hefty price tag.
Thanks for Watching Dave! I agree! This should’ve been a Weber!
Nicely done Tom! I very much enjoyed it...informative and entertaining
Thanks for Watching Daniel I appreciate the feedback!
@@TomHorsmanAmateurBBQ you bet sir! I think I may sit this one out for a year or so and see what the improvements to the entry level gravity feed smokers looks like. I looked at the Char Griller this morning at my local Menards and it looks impressive, but I've been bitten by being the Guinea Pig in the past. I'm certain the 2nd gen of each will be vastly improved!
Thanks Daniel! Good strategy, I’ve done the same
I have a Masterbuilt 560, it’s a game changer in the grill game. However, in the last 4 months mine has been breaking down frequently and has been almost unusable. I think I may be switching to the chargriller, hopefully it is more reliable
Thanks for watching! Time will tell with the Char-Griller, it is definitely better built than the 560
Based on what I've seen, totally agree. You have to mod the char griller less
Thanks for Watching Paul! I agree!
You've sold me on a chargriller 980 Tom, I'll be going to Lowes or Menards to get mine this spring
Thanks for Watching James!
Thanks for the review tom I see the quality of the Char-Griller there is no comparison I always thought Masterbuilt quality was very low at bat I can't find Char-Griller anywhere
Thanks for watching! I’ve had some telling me that they are finding it on Lowe’s online
@@TomHorsmanAmateurBBQ Tom I took your advice I ordered the Char-Griller 980 it will be here in a couple of weeks I can't wait
Congrats!
LOWES
when the lid is open is reduces top temp to 200 degrees
Thanks for Watching!
Excellent comparison review Tom. I'd go with the Char-Grill if I was looking to get another gravity cooker. Thanks much.
Thanks for Watching Mike! I agree!
Is Chargriller airflow better through the hopper? On my 560 a lot of hot air (and ash) blows right back out the sides of the fan hole in the bottom. I imagine this gets worse when you further constrict the charcoal grate. Hence why the gaps are so big on the 560: to keep air flowing.
Your 560 lid probably doesn't turn off because the switch melted. How have you not melted you hopper top switch as well? I have had two 560's and that switch only lasted about 10 700 deg cooks on each.
Looks like Char-griller solved a few problems and obviously did a little more testing, but I see others that remain:
Fixed:
1. Wifi. Masterbuilt's goof is inexcusable and I only recommend people get the 560 for < $250.
2. Air vent more weatherproof and adjustable!
3. Firebrick is obvious and recognizable material
4. Fan relocated so that it is less likely to melt or start on fire (This happened to my first one)
Remains:
1. Cheap plastic refrigerator switches still in locations
2. Charcoal burning issues (low air flow and big grate gaps on 560, small ash pan on Chargriller). Seems like trade offs still need to be made.
On a happy note, it is usually pretty easy to return a 'defective' product that melted its safety sensors even a few months after purchase.
I am waiting for the Weber version, or I will move up to a ceramic egg with fireboard if there isn't a great gravity when my 560 kicks.
Thanks for Watching! I. Not sure I haven’t melted any of the safety switch’s, I agree with your assessment, I would also like to see Weber make one. Thanks again for Watching and commenting!
Looking at them thanks for the review Tom !
Thanks for Watching!
Gravity feed is a fantastic innovation.
Great video Tom, thanks very much for a fantastic video!!!
Thanks Eric! I appreciate you Watching!