Thinking about upgrading your outdoor cooking setup with the Masterbuilt® Gravity Series® 800 Digital Charcoal Grill, Griddle and Smoker with Digital Control, App Connectivity and 800 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20040221?
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Quick overview
You’re looking at a versatile, high-capacity outdoor cooker that combines charcoal flavor, digital temperature control, and a flat top griddle option. The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 (Model MB20040221) is built to handle everything from breakfast pancakes on the griddle to low-and-slow brisket and high-heat searing.
Masterbuilt® Gravity Series® 800 Digital Charcoal Grill, Griddle and Smoker with Digital Control, App Connectivity and 800 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20040221
What this unit brings to your backyard
This grill promises fast heat-up times, accurate digital control, and a large 800 square inches of combined cooking area. You’ll get both cast iron grates and a included flat top griddle insert, plus two porcelain-coated smoking racks for indirect cooking or warming.
Key specifications (at a glance)
You’ll find the main specs summarized in this table so you can compare features quickly.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 (MB20040221) |
| Total cooking area | 800 square inches (includes grates + 2 porcelain-coated smoking racks) |
| Heat-up performance | 225°F in ~8 minutes; 450°F in ~10 minutes; 700°F in ~14 minutes |
| Cooking surfaces | Cast iron grill grates + flat top griddle insert + 2 porcelain-coated smoking racks |
| Temperature control | Digital control panel + built-in temperature gauge + meat probe |
| Connectivity | WiFi and Bluetooth via app |
| Airflow tech | DigitalFan for minimized heat fluctuations |
| Fuel type | Charcoal (gravity-fed hopper) |
| Color/finish | Black |
How fast it heats and why that matters
The numbers are impressive: you’ll reach 225°F in about 8 minutes, 450°F in about 10 minutes, and about 700°F in 14 minutes. That means you can go from cold start to searing in under a quarter hour. For you, that translates into less waiting when friends drop by, faster weeknight dinners, and the flexibility to switch cooking styles during a session.
DigitalFan and temperature stability
The DigitalFan continuously adjusts airflow to keep temperature swings minimal. You’ll notice more consistent temps compared with manual charcoal grills, which means you’ll spend less time babysitting and more time enjoying the food and company.
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Digital controls and app connectivity
You can manage temperature and cook time from the grill’s digital control panel or remotely via WiFi/Bluetooth with the app. That gives you the convenience of checking progress from your phone while you prep sides or relax inside. The built-in temperature gauge and included meat probe also help you hit doneness targets precisely.
Using the app
The app simplifies remote monitoring and control. You’ll be able to change target temperatures, monitor probe temps, and get notifications when the grill reaches set points or when your meat is done. If you like to multitask or host, app control is a real convenience.
Cooking area and components
You get a substantial 800 square inches total area — plenty for multi-tiered cooking. The package includes the cast iron grill grates, a flat top griddle insert, and two porcelain-coated smoking racks.
Cast iron grates
Cast iron gives you great heat retention and beautiful sear marks. You’ll want to keep them seasoned and oiled to get the best nonstick performance and to prevent rust.
Flat top griddle insert
The griddle transforms the grill into a versatile breakfast or sauté station. You can cook pancakes, eggs, shrimp, and stir-fry directly on the insert, making the unit useful beyond typical grilling.
Porcelain-coated smoking racks
The two upper porcelain-coated racks offer extra indirect cooking space, perfect for smoking ribs or keeping finished items warm without drying them out.
Setup and first-time use
Putting the Gravity Series 800 together is fairly straightforward, though it’s a two-person job for some steps because of the unit’s size. The manual walks you through assembly, and the parts are labeled clearly.
Filling the hopper and lighting
You’ll pour lump charcoal or briquettes into the gravity-fed hopper. The unit’s design allows charcoal to flow into the burn cone for steady fuel delivery. Follow the manual for the initial light-up procedure and always use recommended starter methods. Avoid lighting methods that can damage components or leave residues on the grates.
First fire and seasoning
On first use, you’ll want to run a burn-in to remove factory oils and residues. Heat the grill to a moderate temperature for 30–45 minutes, then apply a light coat of cooking oil to the grates and griddle to build initial seasoning and protect cast iron.
Performance: grilling, smoking, and griddling
You’ll be able to switch between multiple cooking styles without swapping equipment.
Grilling and searing
When you need a great sear, the fast heat-up to 700°F is your friend. You’ll get that Maillard crust on steaks, chops, and burgers. The cast iron grates help maintain contact heat to produce those appealing grill marks.
Smoking and low-and-slow
The DigitalFan’s ability to hold low temps makes long smokes stable. You can set a low temp and let the unit maintain it for hours, using the porcelain-coated racks for bigger cuts or the main grate for brisket and pork shoulder.
Griddle cooking
The flat top is excellent for items that benefit from consistent flat heat — breakfast foods, smashed burgers, and stir-fry. You’ll appreciate the versatility when feeding a crowd with varied tastes.
Temperature control and probe use
The built-in grill thermometer gives an overview of chamber temp while the included meat probe gives direct feedback from the food. Use them together: set your grill to a target and monitor probe temps to know when proteins reach safe and desired doneness.
Best practices for probe placement
Insert the probe into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding bone or fatty pockets. Calibrate your expectations for doneness based on probe temps rather than guesswork. The app will let you monitor probe temps without standing next to the grill.
Fuel and efficiency
The gravity-fed hopper minimizes charcoal use by controlling the flow into the burn area. You’ll find fuel efficiency is better than many traditional charcoal setups because the airflow is regulated electronically.
What type of charcoal to use
You can use lump charcoal for quicker heat response and a cleaner ash profile, or briquettes for longer, steadier burns. Choose quality fuel to avoid off-flavors and excessive ash that could affect airflow.
Cleaning and maintenance
Keeping this grill in good shape requires regular cleaning, but most tasks are straightforward.
Grates and griddle care
- Cast iron grates: After cooking, scrape and brush, then apply a thin coat of oil to prevent rust. If they accumulate residue, heat the grill and use a stiff brush and oil to clean.
- Griddle: Scrape while warm, then wipe with oil and paper towels. Avoid soap on seasoned cast iron unless you plan to re-season.
Ash and hopper maintenance
Empty ash and leftover charcoal as recommended. Too much ash can restrict airflow and affect temperature control. Wipe out the hopper occasionally and check for blockages.
Electronics care
Keep the digital control panel and fan housing dry and free of grease buildup. If you plan to clean with a mild solution, protect electronic components and follow manufacturer guidance.
Stability, build quality, and mobility
The Gravity Series 800 is substantial and built for performance. It feels sturdy when you handle it but is heavy enough that you’ll want to place it where it will stay. Casters help if you need to move it short distances, but plan for semi-permanent placement.
Accessories worth considering
You’ll find a range of accessories that expand what you can do with this grill.
- Additional griddle plates or rib racks for bigger cooks.
- Extra probes for multi-item monitoring.
- A cover to protect the unit from weather.
- Charcoal storage solutions or a quality ash tool.
- Cast iron maintenance kit (seasoning oil and brushes).
Table: Feature benefits and how they affect your cooking
This quick reference helps you see how each feature changes what you can cook and how easy the process becomes.
| Feature | Benefit to you | Practical result |
|---|---|---|
| DigitalFan | Stable temperatures | Less manual adjustment, consistent long cooks |
| App connectivity (WiFi/Bluetooth) | Remote monitoring/control | Multitask while cooking; fewer interruptions |
| Fast heat-up (225°F/8min; 450°F/10min; 700°F/14min) | Rapid flexibility | Quick sears and fast transitions between cooking styles |
| Flat top griddle | Expanded menu options | Breakfast, stir-fry, and griddle-specific recipes |
| Cast iron grates | Great searing & heat retention | Better crusts on steaks and burgers |
| 800 sq in cooking area | Large cooking capacity | Cook for big groups or multi-item sessions |
| Meat probe + built-in gauge | Accurate doneness | Fewer overcooked or undercooked results |
Pros and cons — what you’ll appreciate and what might frustrate you
You’ll want to weigh strengths and limitations to decide if this unit fits your needs.
Pros
- Versatility: grill, griddle, smoker in one unit.
- Fast heat-up and wide temperature range.
- Digital control and app connectivity make cooking more convenient.
- Large cooking area for entertaining.
- Included griddle and cast iron grates give immediate flexibility.
Cons
- Size and weight: not ideal if you need a highly portable grill.
- Electronic elements mean you’ll need basic care to avoid water damage.
- Initial assembly and setup may take some time.
- Cast iron requires periodic seasoning and care to avoid rust.
Troubleshooting common issues
You’ll likely encounter a few common hiccups, and knowing how to handle them will save you time and frustration.
If the grill won’t reach target temps
- Check charcoal level and quality in the hopper.
- Ensure ash buildup or blockages aren’t restricting airflow.
- Confirm DigitalFan is operating and unobstructed.
If temperatures fluctuate unexpectedly
- Make sure the hopper lid and vents are properly closed.
- Inspect for ash or debris that could interfere with the burn cone or fan.
- Verify that the app and grill firmware are updated.
If the probe readings seem off
- Recalibrate or test the probe in boiling water (212°F at sea level) and ice water (32°F) if calibration guidance is provided.
- Replace probes if they appear damaged or inconsistent.
Comparisons: how it stacks up against other options
If you’re comparing to pellet grills or traditional charcoal grills, here’s what to expect.
Versus pellet grills
- Charcoal flavor is stronger here; you’ll get more authentic charcoal smoke taste.
- Pellet grills often offer finer automation and steadier long smokes, but the Gravity Series’ DigitalFan narrows that gap for charcoal.
- Pellets require electricity for augers; the Gravity Series needs electricity for the fan and control but uses charcoal fuel.
Versus traditional charcoal kettle grills
- You’ll get better temperature control and less hands-on tending.
- More cooking surface and cooking modes with the Gravity Series.
- Traditional kettles are simpler and cheaper but require more active management.
Who should buy the Gravity Series 800
You’ll want this grill if you:
- Love the flavor of charcoal but want modern convenience.
- Entertain medium-to-large groups and need a roomy cooking surface.
- Appreciate app control and consistent temperature for long cooks.
- Want a single unit that can grill, smoke, and griddle.
Who might want a different option
You might look elsewhere if you:
- Need ultra-portability for tailgating or camping.
- Prefer a simpler, lower-cost grill for occasional use.
- Want a pellet grill specifically for automated pellet flavor profiles.
Tips to get the best results
You’ll shorten your learning curve and improve outcomes with a few simple practices.
- Preheat properly: allow the unit to reach target temps before loading food.
- Season grates and griddle regularly: keep cast iron protected for best performance.
- Place the probe correctly: thickest part of the meat, away from bone and fat pockets.
- Use good fuel: high-quality lump charcoal or briquettes minimize ash and off-flavors.
- Keep spare probes: they save time when cooking multiple items.
- Monitor airflow: keep the hopper and fan area clean to avoid disruptions.
Recipe ideas to try right away
You’ll want to use the grill’s versatility with recipes that show off different modes.
- Smashed burgers on the griddle: high heat, quick sear, fluffy insides.
- Reverse-seared ribeye: slow roast on the top rack, finish with a 700°F sear on the grates.
- Classic brisket: low-and-slow smoke with DigitalFan holding 225–250°F for consistent results.
- Breakfast platter: griddle pancakes, eggs, and bacon while warming sausages on the lower grate.
- Crispy-skinned salmon: griddle sear then indirect finish under the porcelain racks.
Safety and storage
You’ll want to follow basic safety rules to protect both your gear and your home.
- Keep the grill on a stable, non-combustible surface away from structures and overhead eaves.
- Disconnect power and allow the unit to cool fully before covering or storing.
- Store charcoal and flammable materials in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for safe operation and maintenance.
Warranty and support
Masterbuilt typically offers warranties and customer support for its products. You’ll want to register your unit and keep the receipt in case you need service. Check Masterbuilt’s website or the product manual for warranty length, coverage details, and support channels.
Final considerations before you buy
You’ll want to confirm the grill fits your space and lifestyle. Measure your storage area and consider whether you’ll regularly cook for groups or prefer simplicity. The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 is a powerful, flexible option that rewards careful use and maintenance with consistent results and multiple cooking methods.
Final thoughts
If you want charcoal flavor with digital convenience, plenty of cooking space, and the ability to grill, griddle, and smoke on a single platform, the Masterbuilt® Gravity Series® 800 Digital Charcoal Grill, Griddle and Smoker with Digital Control, App Connectivity and 800 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model MB20040221, is worth serious consideration. You’ll get fast heat-up times, reliable temperature control via the DigitalFan, and the convenience of app monitoring — all of which make it easier to produce great food with less fuss.
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