Walking into the world of gravity-fed charcoal grilling is a bit like stepping into a cockpit. The first time I fired up a Masterbuilt Gravity Series, I felt like I was cheating. I had the deep, soulful flavor of a real wood and charcoal fire, but I was controlling it with a digital dial and a smartphone app. I’ve spent the better part of the last year rotating between the Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 and the Gravity Series 800, and while they share the same fundamental DNA, the experience of living with them side-by-side reveals some stark differences in how they handle a Sunday afternoon cookout.
The Gravity Series changed the game by automating the airflow of a charcoal fire, allowing us to reach 700°F for a steak sear or hold a steady 225°F for an overnight brisket without ever touching a damper. However, choosing between the entry-level 560 and the mid-sized 800 isn’t just about how many burgers you can fit on the grates. It’s about a significant shift in build quality, versatility, and prep space. After burning through countless bags of lump charcoal, I’ve found that one of these is a specialized tool for the space-conscious griller, while the other is a complete outdoor kitchen in a single footprint.
The Key Difference: Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 vs. 800 Smoker Grill
The most important distinction between the Masterbuilt 560 and the 800 is the inclusion of the Griddle System and the total Cooking Capacity.
- The Masterbuilt 800 (The All-In-One): This model is designed for maximum versatility. It comes standard with a Full Flat Top Griddle Insert that replaces the grill grates. With 800 square inches of cooking space, it is built to be a primary outdoor cooking station.
- The Masterbuilt 560 (The Compact Smoker): This is the “gateway” model into gravity-fed cooking. It offers 560 square inches of space and focuses on a smaller footprint. While it is an exceptional smoker and grill, it lacks the out-of-the-box griddle capability and the heavy-duty shelf space of its larger sibling.
In short: The 800 is a 3-in-1 powerhouse (grill, smoker, griddle), whereas the 560 is a streamlined, efficient smoker-grill combo that fits perfectly on smaller decks or patios.
Comparison Table: Masterbuilt 560 vs. 800 Smoker Grill
| Feature | Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 | Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 |
| Cooking Area | 560 Sq. Inches | 800 Sq. Inches |
| Griddle Insert | Sold Separately | Included in Box |
| Max Temperature | 700°F | 700°F |
| Shelf Design | Powder-Coated Folding Front | Heavy-Duty Folding Front |
| Preheat Time | 225°F in 8-10 mins | 225°F in 8 mins |
| Hopper Capacity | 10 lbs. Lump / 16 lbs. Briquettes | 10 lbs. Lump / 16 lbs. Briquettes |
| Connectivity | WiFi & Bluetooth | WiFi & Bluetooth |
| Material | Powder-Coated Steel | Iron & Powder-Coated Steel |
| Price Point | Entry-Level / Budget-Friendly | Mid-Range / Premium Value |
| View Current Price On Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review: My Personal Take
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Design: Compact Utility vs. Backyard Command Center
When I first unboxed the 560, I was surprised at how “at home” it felt on a standard apartment-sized balcony. It’s significantly narrower than the 800, making it the clear choice for those of us who have to share our outdoor space with patio furniture or a herb garden. The front folding shelf on the 560 is a vital accessory; it’s rated to hold up to 50 pounds, which is more than enough for a heavy tray of ribs or a cutting board.
The 800, however, feels like a substantial upgrade the moment you put your hands on it. It’s wider, heavier (weighing in at over 200 pounds), and just feels more “planted.” The design of the 800 feels like Masterbuilt took all the feedback from the original 560 and beefed up the components. The folding front shelf on the 800 feels more integrated and robust. While the 560 is a great-looking grill, the 800 has a “command center” vibe that makes you want to invite the neighbors over just to show it off.
- Front folding shelf for the Gravity Series 560 Grill + Smoker
- Reaches 225 F in 8 minutes, 450 F in 10 minutes, or 700 degrees Fahrenheit in 14 minutes
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Ease of Use: The Learning Curve of Gravity
Operating both machines is virtually identical. You fill the vertical hopper with charcoal, put a fire starter in the bottom, and set your temperature on the digital controller.
- The 560 Experience: Because the cooking chamber is smaller, the 560 is incredibly efficient. I found it exceptionally easy to “quick-start” for a Tuesday night dinner. It holds temperature with very little fluctuation, and because there’s less air to heat up, it stays very stable even in breezy conditions.
- The 800 Experience: The 800 adds the variable of the griddle. Swapping the grates for the griddle is straightforward, but it does add a layer of “management.” You have to season the griddle and maintain it differently than you do the cast iron grates. However, having the DigitalFan control the heat underneath a flat top is a luxury I didn’t know I needed. Being able to set a precise 450°F for smash burgers and knowing the fan will maintain that exactly is something you just can’t get from a traditional gas griddle.
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Functions: Smoking, Searing, and Sizzling
Both grills reach 700°F, which is the “magic number” for a perfect steak sear.
On the 560, I spent most of my time smoking. It’s the perfect size for a single large brisket or a couple of pork butts. The two porcelain-coated smoking racks provide enough vertical space for most tasks. I noticed the 560 produces a very clean smoke profile – you get that “thin blue smoke” almost instantly because of how the gravity hopper feeds the fire.
The 800 is where the real fun happens if you like to experiment. I used the 800 for a “Full English” breakfast on the griddle one morning, then swapped back to the grates for a low-and-slow prime rib that afternoon. The 800 square inches of space is the “Goldilocks” zone – it’s big enough to cook for a party of 10, but not so massive that you feel like you’re wasting charcoal for a meal for two. The 800 also feels like it has a bit more “thump” in the fan, reaching those high searing temperatures slightly more aggressively than the 560.
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Maintenance: The Long-Term Reality
Charcoal grills require a bit of love, and gravity-fed models have a few more moving parts than your old kettle. Both models feature a slide-out ash bin that makes emptying the “spent” fuel easy.
On the 560, maintenance is simple because there are fewer accessories to worry about. Keep the interior scraped down and the ash bin empty, and you’re good to go. The 800 requires a bit more commitment because of the griddle. If you leave the griddle insert in the rain, it will rust. You have to be diligent about oiling it and storing it properly. Also, the larger surface area of the 800 means more grease management. I’ve found that using disposable drip pans is a must for both, but especially for the 800 when you’re doing high-fat cooks on the flat top.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 Smoker Grill
- Front folding shelf for the Gravity Series 560 Grill + Smoker
Pros:
- Space Efficient: Perfect for smaller patios and decks.
- Fuel Efficiency: Uses slightly less charcoal for shorter cooks.
- Price: The most affordable way to get into automated charcoal cooking.
- Fast Setup: Simple assembly and straightforward operation.
Cons:
- Limited Versatility: No included griddle; strictly a grill and smoker out of the box.
- Lower Capacity: Can feel crowded if you’re cooking for more than 4-5 people.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 800 Smoker Grill
- Reaches 225 F in 8 minutes, 450 F in 10 minutes, or 700 degrees Fahrenheit in 14 minutes
Pros:
- The Griddle: Having a full flat top included is a massive benefit for breakfast and smash burgers.
- Perfect Size: 800 sq. inches handles almost any family gathering with ease.
- Improved Build: Feels sturdier and more refined than the 560.
- Prep Space: The shelving is more generous and feels more professional.
Cons:
- Weight: It’s a heavy unit; you won’t want to move it across grass or gravel often.
- Price: A higher initial investment (though arguably better value).
The Verdict: Which Gravity Series Wins Your Heart?
After months of lighting fires in both, the choice comes down to your backyard goals.
I recommend the Masterbuilt 560 if: You are short on space or primarily want a dedicated, high-tech smoker. If you already have a gas grill or a griddle and you just want the best “set-it-and-forget-it” charcoal smoker for your weekly ribs, the 560 is an incredible value. It does the core job of the Gravity Series perfectly without the extra bulk.
I recommend the Masterbuilt 800 if: You want the ultimate “do-everything” machine. The inclusion of the griddle makes the 800 a superior value in the long run. If you’re the type of cook who wants to smoke a brisket on Saturday and make a massive pile of cheesesteaks on Sunday, the 800 is the most versatile piece of equipment you can put in your backyard.
My Personal Choice: I am sticking with the Masterbuilt 800. The jump to 800 square inches makes a huge difference when you have a couple of racks of ribs and some corn on the cob going at the same time, and that griddle insert has completely changed how I think about charcoal cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is the 560 front shelf strong enough?
Yes. The power-coated steel shelf on the 560 is surprisingly sturdy. I’ve put a full 15-pound brisket on a heavy ceramic tray on that shelf, and it didn’t budge. Just make sure the bolts are tightened during assembly.
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Can I buy the griddle for the 560 later?
Masterbuilt does sell griddle accessories for the 560, but they are often smaller “half-griddles” or third-party inserts. The 800 is the only model that comes with a full-surface flat top specifically engineered to fit the chamber.
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How long does a bag of charcoal last?
At smoking temperatures (225°F), a full hopper in either model will last between 10 and 12 hours. If you’re cranking it up to 700°F for pizzas or steaks, expect to burn through a hopper in about 2.5 to 3 hours.
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Is the WiFi app reliable?
Masterbuilt has made massive improvements to the app. While earlier versions had connectivity issues, the current firmware is much more stable. I’ve found that as long as your home WiFi reaches your patio, the Bluetooth-to-WiFi handoff is seamless.
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Can I use wood chunks in the 560?
Absolutely. You can either mix wood chunks into the hopper with your charcoal or place a couple of chunks directly in the ash bin. The hot embers falling from the hopper will ignite the wood in the ash bin, providing a very clean, consistent smoke.
