Masterbuilt 560 Gravity Smoker Review
Introduction – The Masterbuilt 560
Let me start by saying that The Masterbuilt 560 Gravity smoker was my very first gravity smoker. I’m extremely happy that I made the jump to these style smokers. Clean up is extremely easy, temp control is laughably easy and the flavor is almost identical to an offset-style smoker.
so far, I’ve had no issues with this smoker. However, I’ve heard of a few. micro switch issues, Fan issues, and controller issues. The good news is that there are multiple fixes for those issues, which makes me love this smoker even more!
Overview of the Masterbuilt 560 Gravity Smoker
The Masterbuilt 560 Gravity Smoker is not your average electric smoker. It’s a game-changer in the smoking world, designed to simplify the process while delivering consistent results.
What sets it apart is its unique gravity-fed charcoal technology. This means you get the authentic flavor of a traditional charcoal smoker with the convenience of an electric one.
Its build is robust and user-friendly. The smoker features a digital control panel and a smart, Wi-Fi-enabled technology, allowing you to monitor and adjust temperatures from your smartphone.
This is a huge plus for beginners who might be intimidated by manual temperature adjustments. With a temperature range of 150°F to 700°F, it’s versatile enough for slow smoking or searing steaks.
Storage-wise, the Masterbuilt 560 has ample space. It boasts a total cooking area of 560 square inches, including both the main grilling space and the warming rack. Whether it’s a large brisket or multiple racks of ribs, this smoker can handle it with ease.
Now, let’s move on to the next sections where I’ll discuss the benefits of gravity smokers, and provide a detailed review of the Masterbuilt 560.
Design and Build Quality
The MasterBuilt 560 stands out with its sleek design and robust build. Despite its considerable size, users often remark on its surprisingly light construction, which raises questions about its durability. However, this lightweight design doesn’t compromise on performance.
The smoker can reach temperatures up to a scorching 700 degrees, yet the external touch remains safe, a testament to its excellent insulation and material quality. The grill’s components, including the Smoking/Warming Racks, Smoke + Sear Grates, and Temperature Gauge, are designed for optimal performance and user convenience.
MasterBuilt 560 Gravity Smoker Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model Number | MB20040220 |
| Dimensions | cooking grid deminsion 24 X 14 1/2″ |
| Weight | 148 lb |
| Temperature Range | 150 to 700 degrees |
| Safety Features | Lid Switch, Hopper Switches |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal, with option for wood chips, chunks, or pellets |
| Cooking Capacity | 8 chickens OR 4 racks of ribs OR 37 sausages OR 21 burgers |
| Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Capability | Yes (details from manual or user experience) |
| Control Type | Digital, with PID controller for temperature regulation |
| Cooking Grates Material | main grates are made of cast iron |
| Maximum Operating Temperature | 700°F |
| Safety Warnings | Carbon Monoxide Hazard Warning, Outdoor Use Only“【oaicite:0】“ |
Authors Notes – What I’ve Noticed
- The masterbuilt application on my phone has never glitched.
- I’ve had no flame flare-ups because I clean my pit after every 5 cooks.
- There’s a TON of groups on Facebook that have hundreds of helpful members.
- I found a way to use wood splits for fuel rather than just briquets and chunks.
- There are a few companies that make accessories for the 560 Gravity smoker that make using it easier. I’ll review those at a later date.
Why Choose a Gravity Smoker?
Imagine you’re new to smoking and you’re chatting with a friend who’s a bit of a pitmaster pro. They’d probably tell you that a gravity smoker, like the Masterbuilt 560, is a perfect starting point. Why?
First off, it bridges the gap between the traditional smoking experience and modern convenience. Gravity smokers use charcoal – the heart and soul of classic smoking – but automate the temperature control, which is often the trickiest part for beginners.
The consistent heat distribution is another big plus. It means fewer fluctuations and more predictable cooking times, crucial when you’re just learning the ropes.
Also, the ease of refilling the charcoal and the overall maintenance are beginner-friendly. It’s like having training wheels on a bike – it gives you the confidence to experiment and learn without the fear of messing up your first big barbecue.
Ease of Assembly and Safety Features
MasterBuilt ensures that the assembly of the 560 Gravity Smoker is straightforward, with clear instructions provided for a hassle-free setup. Safety is a paramount consideration in its design.
The smoker is equipped with a series of Lid switches to prevent overheating and Hopper Switches to reduce the chimney effect when the hopper is opened. These features are crucial for maintaining a safe cooking environment, especially when the smoker reaches high temperatures.
Masterbuilt 560 Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Innovative Gravity-Fed Charcoal System: Offers the authentic flavor of charcoal with the convenience of an electric smoker. | Exterior Can Get Hot: The smoker’s exterior may become quite warm during use, requiring caution. |
| Digital Control Panel and Wi-Fi Connectivity: User-friendly and allows for remote monitoring and temperature control. | Initial Setup Time: The setup process can be time-consuming, needing patience during the first assembly. |
| Consistent Temperature Control: Maintains desired temperature with minimal effort, ideal for beginners. | |
| Large Cooking Capacity: Spacious enough for large cuts of meat or multiple dishes at once. | |
| Built-In Meat Probe: Ensures perfectly cooked meats by monitoring internal temperatures. | |
| Easy Clean-Up: Efficient ash and grease management system for hassle-free maintenance. | |
| Versatile Temperature Range: Suitable for a wide range of cooking methods, from slow smoking to searing. |
Detailed Review of Masterbuilt 560
Now, let’s delve deeper into the Masterbuilt 560, as if you’re getting the inside scoop from a friend who’s used it for months. First and foremost, the performance is impressive.
The smoker reaches the desired temperature quickly and maintains it with minimal effort, thanks to its gravity-fed system.
This feature alone makes it a gem for beginners, as it removes the guesswork and constant monitoring required in traditional smokers.
The digital control panel is intuitive and user-friendly. You don’t need to be tech-savvy to navigate through its functions.
The Wi-Fi connectivity is a modern touch, allowing you to monitor your cooking remotely – imagine checking your brisket’s progress while watching the game!
In terms of capacity, the Masterbuilt 560 is quite generous. It’s spacious enough for family gatherings yet not overly bulky for a small backyard.
The multiple racks and the warming rack add to its versatility, letting you smoke different meats at varying temperatures.
On the flip side, as with any product, there are a couple of cons. Some users have noted that the smoker’s exterior can get quite hot, so it’s wise to be cautious, especially around curious kids.
Also, while the setup isn’t overly complicated, it does take a bit of time, so patience is key during the initial assembly.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall ease of use, from lighting the charcoal to cleaning up afterward, is top-notch.
The ash management system is particularly noteworthy – it makes clean-up a breeze, a feature any beginner would appreciate.
Capacity and Efficiency
The MasterBuilt 560’s design considers both capacity and efficiency. It can accommodate multiple racks of meat, making it suitable for large gatherings or meal prep for the week. The parts list in the manual details the spaciousness and versatility of the cooking area, offering ample space for different types of food. Users have praised its ability to hold a significant amount of charcoal, lasting up to 10 hours of cooking, making it efficient for extended smoking sessions.
Performance: Temperature Control and Cooking Experience
One of the standout features of the MasterBuilt 560 is its precise temperature control. The PID controller maintains a stable temperature with minimal fluctuation, crucial for perfectly smoked meats. Whether you’re reverse searing steaks or slowly smoking a brisket, the smoker consistently delivers.
Users have noted its ability to maintain set temperatures with only a 5-degree swing, ensuring even cooking without constant monitoring. This precision, combined with the smoker’s versatile capacity, makes it ideal for a variety of cooking styles and preferences.
Common Masterbuilt 560 Problems and Fixes
| Common Problems | Common Fixes |
|---|---|
| Difficulty Maintaining Temperature: Some users report issues with the smoker not holding the set temperature. | Check Charcoal and Airflow: Ensure there’s enough charcoal and that it’s properly ignited. Also, check for any obstructions in the airflow system. |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity Issues: Problems with connecting or maintaining a connection to the smoker’s Wi-Fi feature. | Reset Wi-Fi Connection: Try resetting the smoker’s Wi-Fi settings and ensure your home network is stable. Also, check for firmware updates. |
| Excess Smoke Leakage: Smoke may escape from areas other than the designated vents. | Check Seals and Lids: Ensure all seals are intact and that the lids and doors are properly closed. You may need to replace worn-out seals. |
| Ash Tray Filling Up Quickly: The ash tray might fill up faster than expected, affecting performance. | Regular Cleaning: Empty the ash tray more frequently during long smoking sessions and ensure it’s clean before starting. |
| Uneven Cooking or Hot Spots: Some areas of the smoker may cook faster than others. | Reposition Food: Try rotating or repositioning the food during cooking to ensure even exposure to heat and smoke. |
| Trouble with Charcoal Feeding: The gravity-fed system may occasionally jam or not feed charcoal smoothly. | Quality of Charcoal: Use high-quality, uniformly-sized charcoal. Avoid overly small pieces that could block the system. |
Remember, regular maintenance and proper use according to the manufacturer’s instructions can prevent many common issues. If problems persist, contacting Masterbuilt customer support for assistance is advisable.
Tips and Tricks for Beginners
As you embark on your smoking adventure with the Masterbuilt 560, here are some friendly tips and tricks to enhance your experience:
- Start with Simple Recipes: Begin with easy-to-smoke meats like chicken or sausages before graduating to brisket or ribs. It builds your confidence and familiarity with the smoker.
- Monitor the Charcoal: Keep an eye on the charcoal level for longer smokes. Refilling before it runs too low ensures a steady temperature.
- Experiment with Wood Chips: Add different wood chips for varied flavors. Applewood for a sweeter touch or hickory for a classic smoky taste can add an exciting twist.
- Use the Meat Probe: Take advantage of the built-in meat probe to monitor internal temperatures, ensuring perfectly cooked meats every time.
- Keep It Clean: Regular cleaning, especially of the ash and grease trays, maintains the smoker’s efficiency and longevity.
Comparisons with Other Smokers
When you’re comparing the Masterbuilt 560 with other smokers, especially as a beginner, consider ease of use and versatility. Traditional offset smokers, for instance, require more manual temperature control and experience to master. Electric smokers, while easier, often lack the authentic flavor that charcoal smokers provide.
The Masterbuilt 560 stands out for its unique combination of charcoal flavor and electric smoker convenience. It’s a solid middle ground, offering the best of both worlds.
This makes it an excellent choice for beginners who want the authentic taste of charcoal smoking without the steep learning curve.
Conclusion and Buying Advice
In conclusion, the Masterbuilt 560 Gravity Smoker is a stellar choice for anyone new to smoking. Its user-friendly features, coupled with the authentic flavor of charcoal smoking, make it an ideal starting point.
When considering purchasing, look for retailers that offer good warranty and customer service. Also, check for any bundle deals that might include accessories like covers or extra racks.
Chatting with a friend about getting into smoking, the Masterbuilt 560 would come highly recommended. It’s like having a patient teacher by your side – guiding you through the smoking process, ensuring delicious results every time.
