Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 Charcoal Grill and Smoker Review with Digital Features

Description

Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050: A Charcoal Enthusiast’s Dream

Design and Build Quality
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 immediately stands out with its sleek black finish and robust stainless steel construction. It’s a hefty piece of equipment, weighing in at 203 pounds, but that weight is well distributed, offering a solid and stable grilling experience. The dimensions of 33.1″D x 61″W x 52.2″H make it a substantial addition to any backyard, but the thoughtfully designed layout ensures it doesn’t feel overwhelming. I particularly appreciated the stainless steel front and side shelves, which provided ample space for prepping burgers, veggies, and even some barbecue sauces.

The GravityFed vertical charcoal hopper is a genius feature, allowing me to load up to 10 pounds of lump charcoal or 16 pounds of briquettes, which lasted for hours without needing constant refills. The porcelain-coated warming racks were another standout, as they kept food warm without overcooking.

Performance and Versatility
This grill isn’t just about looks—it’s a powerhouse. With 1,050 square inches of cooking space, I was able to smoke a brisket and grill burgers for the family all at once. The DigitalFan technology is a game-changer, ensuring the temperature remains consistent whether I’m cooking at a low 225°F for smoking or cranking it up to a fiery 700°F for searing steaks.

The performance was further enhanced by the reversible cast iron grates, which seamlessly transitioned between high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking. I tested both methods and found the results to be equally impressive. The sear marks on the steak were perfect, while the smoked ribs had that tender, fall-off-the-bone texture I’ve always aimed for.

Positives
This grill has a lot going for it, and a few highlights stood out:

• Quick heat-up times: Reaches 225°F in just 8 minutes, and 700°F in 15 minutes, saving time without compromising on taste.
• App connectivity: The ability to control everything from temperature to shutdown via the Masterbuilt app was incredibly convenient.
• Built-in meat probe thermometer: Ensures perfectly cooked meat every single time.
• Durable materials: The stainless steel and porcelain-coated components feel built to last.

Areas for Improvement
While the performance was stellar, there are a few caveats to consider:

• Weight and size: At 203 pounds, this isn’t a grill you’ll be moving around often. Make sure you have a dedicated space for it.
• Charcoal management: While the gravity-fed hopper is innovative, cleaning out residual ash can be slightly tedious.
• Learning curve: For those new to digital charcoal grills, mastering the app and settings might take some time.

Product Competitors
When comparing this grill to other products like the Traeger Pro Series 575 or the Weber Smokefire EX6, the Masterbuilt holds its own. Unlike the Traeger, which relies on wood pellets, the Gravity Series uniquely combines traditional charcoal grilling with the convenience of digital controls. The Weber Smokefire, while strong in the pellet grill market, doesn’t offer the same high-temperature searing capabilities that the Masterbuilt does.

That said, the Traeger does have an edge in ease of cleaning, while the Weber Smokefire boasts a slightly larger hopper for extended cooking times. But for those who crave the authentic charcoal flavor with modern tech, this grill is a standout choice.

Value for Money
When it comes to bang for the buck, the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 delivers. The combination of traditional charcoal grilling, digital precision, and app functionality feels like a luxury, but without the exorbitant price tag of some competitors. While it’s an investment, the sheer versatility and performance make it worth every penny for serious grillers and BBQ enthusiasts alike.

Beyond its features, the grill’s durability means you’re not just buying a one-summer appliance. This is a long-term addition to your outdoor cooking arsenal, capable of handling everything from casual burgers to elaborate smoked briskets.

The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 1050 is for those who refuse to compromise on flavor or convenience. It’s a grill that caters to both novice backyard cooks and seasoned pitmasters, offering a unique blend of modern tech and classic charcoal cooking. If you’re serious about grilling and smoking, this is a product that deserves your attention.

Additional information