BEST Grill Controller For The $$$? FireBoard | Thermoworks | FlameBoss | Smobot | TEST & REVIEW

[@hansmaartenvink2581]

As a Fireboard user I couldn't agree more. After two years of usage I am still very happy with it.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

glad to hear

[@njpondguy]

I just ordered the drive 2 bundle today. cant wait to try it on my BGE XL

[@lakorai2]

I have the Fire board 2 Pro. It was expensive AF. But it really is a great controller. Love that you can use industry standard probes, though you are limited to 3 total. Allows much higher temps vs the stock 2.5mm ones. Use the BBQ guru fan and adapters. The Fire board Drive sucks.

[@thebeatagp]

Man, from one KZbinr to another, this was high-qualitycontent. I really appreciate how much time and effort you put into your videos. In a time where many creators are trying to focus so much on shorts, for topics like this and many others, longer explanation is not only desired, but needed. Keep up the great work.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks so much

[@Anteater23]

Hi Allen, so cool to see you here :) What smoker do you use?

[@grapenuts_]

This video has been teased for months, and I'm so glad it's finally here. Really appreciate the thought and work that went into this such as adding an unbiased thermometer just to keep things honest. Great video.

[@ianpaddick2003]

I’ve had my smobot for over a year. Love that it keeps true to the authentic kamato cooking style. To shut it down I just take it off and put the standard topper on. Lol

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

lol that works too.

[@nicholastorok9859]

I've had my fireboard for a couple years now and love it. I've done overnight brisket cooks and been able to sleep sound no worries. My 12 yr old has even set it up by himself and smoked a beef roast, so yes very simple. I love it.

[@davescolini8466]

I've been waiting for this for years. So glad you finally did this video. It's great. I have owned the Fireboard Drive for 2 years+ now, it's fantastic.

[@StefLuci]

I use fireboard 2 drive on the past two years and i love it. No issues, great app where you can add notes and pics, can access to all controls from computer if it's need, the analysis options works fine like the meater. Plus you can have the slim probes and access to all calibrations

[@herb7877]

About 3 minutes in I had to laugh. I did a "hold" one time in my wife's fancy built in, kitchen warmer tray. Not only did I "stink up" the kitchen / family room but the oven & warmer. I got delegated to clean both. The smell really didn't go away for months. That was 5-6 years ago and every time I bring something in off the smoker I get the 'evil eye' and , " now "your not going to put that in the warmer again are you !" I'll never live it down.

[@rkrulla]

Been a FireBoard user going on 3 years and have nothing but great experiences to share!

[@mguerramd]

I used the Stoker and the BBQ Guru years ago. I liked them as toys to play with. But the last few years I realized I can get excellent temp control with my vents. You only need three fire temps. Very hot for grilling, or pizza, you can see that with your eyes. 300-350 for roasting, easy to set with your vents, and 200-250 for a low and slow, also easy to set with your vents. Realize that once your brisket or pork butt is done, it is sterile. Unless you drag it through a porta potty or across some raw chicken juice, it’s not at risk for contamination. Food borne pathogens aren’t drifting through the air. So you don’t need to keep it at so called food safe temps. In my opinion! And I’m a physician. I rest a brisket for up to 24 hours wrapped in towels in a cooler. And never worry at all what temp it drops to. It is nice to rest a brisket in a warmer for succulence, true. Anyway my controllers are just gathering dust at this point. For thermometers I use one probe in the meat and one grate probe. That’s it. I went full circle from vents to controllers and back to vents. Each to his own…

[@pawpawstew]

Thanks for your insight. That being said, I have had a fire/heat failure on my Primo Oval XL a couple of times just relying on the vent adjustment. On two occasions that I can remember, I had it nailed at 225°F for an ovenight brisket cook and went to bed. Got up at 6am started the coffee, and went out to check the cook. The fire had gone out, there was plenty of lump left, and the Primo had cooled to 140°-150°F. I was only eight hours into the cook and I was able to get it fired back up and cooking, but it was a pain in the bumper. So, if that controller gives me more insurance /peace of mind, I'll spend the money.

[@EpicNinjaRides]

I bought a cheap turkey roaster oven for like $30 bucks and I use that for my hot holds. Works great and I don’t have to worry about using my kamado, oven or pellet grill.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

how low can it hold?

[@sevenoaksbrewing]

I just got a turkey roaster for holding briskets, too, it has a Keep warm setting as well as temp range from 150 to 450. Mine was on sale for $39 😊

[@erolsen58]

Thank you Smoking Dad. I got a Billows for my Pit Boss K22 and found that it was blowing too much air and I haven't used it in two years. I didn't know that they sold a damper for it so now it won't collect dust.

[@thebeatagp]

Hey James, quick question. I'm about to use your link to purchase the Fireboard. Should I just get the Fireboard drive or the bundle? Which do I need to make sure I'm fully set up perfectly to be able to regular my temperature during very long cooks like with a brisket? Thanks,

[@warwickkane8102]

Have a look at the smart fire, very happy with it

[@crushingbelial]

BBQguru and fireboard user here. If bbqgurus algorithm could be adopted to fireboard I'd say perfection would be achieved. Alas the variable fan speed on FBoard is a hammer, while the puffing of bbqguru is so gentle and effective. Excellent video thank you James

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

i set the fan speed in the FB app to 20% and didn’t find i needed to play with the damper. it performed from what i can see similarly to the 6.5cfm flame boss. are you at 100% or a different setting?

[@bdelbanco]

Use your bbq guru fan with the Fireboard. They’re compatible!

[@crushingbelial]

@@bdelbanco oh I know. It's not that it is the method of delivery

[@crushingbelial]

@@SmokingDadBBQ from bbqgurus documentation: The Blower Status Indicator and Blower Display Warble will help determine how the fire is being controlled. When there is sufficient fuel in the pit, the blower will gently puff the fire, feeding it little bursts of oxygen. I think that approach keeps the fluctuations lower

[@socomon69]

i sold the bbq guru ultraq and bought the fireboard. i kept the pit viper fan to use with it.

[@briandaffern5108]

Great episode James. As I've said before, I've got a Flame Boss 500 and for what I use it for, it works flawlessly. It does come with a hefty price tag, and would have definitely looked at a fire board if I'd have seen your video first. This is the sort of content you need to make available on your new website, but in more detail. You should go into detail using video and graphics on the down loading, physical setup and operation of each controller, in separate digital books, this way if a person is looking at say a fireboard, they can make a decision based on real world operation. There is a lot of accessories I'd like to see in operation before laying out big bucks, and would be willing to lay out a couple to see if it's what I truly want or need for the price.

[@donr62]

Yes, I have a Smobot and am totally happy with its excellent performance over many years and mind you none of my cooks are at 150°F 🙄 To close the damper simply switch it to manually and close the damper…simple.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

It works great higher temps. The long hot hold is what I am most interested in and that particular temp is a struggle for the smobot

[@williamwilson2624]

I have been anxiously awaiting this video. I really appreciate the time and hard work that you put into this test. This has been a very informative and enjoyable video.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jrfh22012]

I use an electric smoker for the hold. It will keep 140 all day . For the controller the Inkbird has served me very well.

[@mikecoughlin4128]

Now that you have some offsets I'd like to see an updated test of controllers on an offset. Once wrapped I expect you would stop using wood and move to charcoal which would allow for extended unattended cook time.

[@Oilcruzer]

Not making the house smell like brisket is a win. Nice review.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks

[@MikeSpringer]

But not the smartfire? After a ton of research, that was my clear winner

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

i based it on a poll on IG and FB groups earlier this year and these came back with the most requests

[@bdelbanco]

A really solid video and the expected result. A couple notes. The billows fan can have a little plastic damper added to it which makes it quieter and with the restricted airflow I suspect would improve fuel consumption. Another *huge* pro for Fireboard is that it can drive other fans! The Fireboard fan is fine and much better than their first try but it can drive any fan that uses that barrel connector. Many, many people (including me) use a Fireboard controller along with a BBQGuru pit viper fan for a yet better experience. Check it out!

[@scotts7630]

I have a Thermoworks Signals/Billows combo; I ordered because I'm a big fan of Thermoworks' other products, and because I didn't really expect to use the Billows all that much. When I called and talked with them about purchasing (they have GREAT customer service), and told them I was ordering for a Kamado, they said that the damper was almost-required. The damper is only an extra $4, and it does work fine... typically I'll have the opening almost completely choked off, and it'll still maintain temperature just fine. Another note with the Signals/Billows combo (and this may be addressed later in the video, I haven't made it through the whole thing yet) is that while the Signals itself can run off it's internal battery, to drive the Billows, it MUST be plugged in with the provided 12V power adapter and power splitter. So you need power handy, and your grill will be tethered by wire. Not a huge deal for my usage, but definitely something to be aware of. I'm happy with my purchase, but the detriments that James has mentioned are definitely fair criticisms. And my primary use is for the Signals, with Billows as an occasional use accessory, which fits with my priorities and needs.

[@DanDaciuk]

Thanks for putting the time in to give an unbiased opinion. I had an ikamand, as well as a heatermeater I built from a kit, sadly neither work anymore and neither can be replaced :(

[@TyphoonCoffee]

I was planning to order Masterbuilt gravity 800 grill, but i read mixed reviews about electronics and customer service. I know it is super good grill when it works, but i was stil hesitant to buy it. I have 7 years old 21" Kamado-grill and i just bought Fireboard 2 drive + fan. I think this combo will be running longer than Masterbuilt and i even saved some money 😊 I am also going to buy Smokai smoker for cold smoking (also maybe for hot smoking). Thanks for this video, it really helped me to make my decision 👍 Love your channel, keep up the good work!

[@CoolJay77]

I use Fireboard and I agree with your assessment. It has been quite a while since I have used the fan, but it does a great job. The way that it detects the opening of the lid, and delays the fan to come back on, is a great feature. My beef with Fireboard is that the factory supplied thermocouple sensors only last for handful of cooking sessions, no matter how careful you are with them. I have ended up getting aftermarket sensors that are durable. Hopefully by now the durability of the sensors have improved. Thumbs up for the thumbnail image.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Hahaha thanks

[@etherealshade]

which ones did you have issues with? I've had no issues with mine for the last 3 or 4 years, so curious if its a different style than I have or unlucky batch

[@CoolJay77]

@@etherealshade Do you have the thermocouple version? I've got Fireboard 2 Pro from around 2 1/2 years ago. Did they even make the thermocouple version four years ago? At first the temperature would jump up and down erratically, they would give me the run around, to wait for the software updates. But it was a probe issue. Then they sent me one new probe, it did not last long either. I ended up buying US made aftermarket probes, for around $100 a pop. For the rest, I've found out that the wiring near the connectors tend to short circuit. I ended up separating the wirings and insulating with shrink tubing. If you got thermocouples, take extreme care not to bend or twist the cables at either end. Obviously, one can't expect them to include three probes costing a total of $300.

[@etherealshade]

@@CoolJay77 no I don’t the first fireboard, guess the older one is maybe more reliable probes

[@Keith80027]

Thanks for doing this comparison. I have an older controller that I can't get parts for and some day I going to have to replace it. I like the stress test of 150 degrees as I want to do this too when cooking a brisket and I don't want to cook for 15 hours. My stress test for a pork butt was during a blizzard during xmas. My controller did manage to keep the cook going even in a high wind and cold event.

[@kurtfillman9266]

Was just looking to add a temp controller to my Kamado Joe and saw this YT Video. Smoking Dad made the decision for me! That was an excellent well detailed video educating us on controllers. Thanks again!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Glad it helped

[@pawpawstew]

Thanks for the great overview. A couple of notes about the Fireboard... A weatherproof case is available on the market. So, while it doesn't necessarily come in the kit, it's worth mentioning. After-market accessories available to enhance the chosen product is good to know. Also, it should be noted that one of the highest rated pellet smoker brands out there... "Lone Star Grills" , chose the Fireboard as their controller. That says something.

[@GarysBBQSupplies]

Yoder's YS series pellet smokers also use Fireboard as their controller. Simple, accurate, intuitive. Just a great controller all around.

[@pawpawstew]

I hadn't looked at the Yoder. Good to know.

[@RobertDickert]

Excellent channel, thank you for helping me as I shopped for a new grill! I bought a Konnected Joe, so I've already decided (and it's amazing so far), but here's a video idea for you that I would definitely have watched before I bought if it existed: For someone buying a new grill, which one wins, Konnected Joe, Classic II with Fireboard, or Classic III with Fireboard? Cheers!

[@samacc2536]

Thanks for the super detailed reviews! Do you think the fans impact the food taste? Is there an argument to be made regarding fuel consumption while using a fan vs not using it? I know you’ve mentioned multiple times that more fuel can lead to more flavor. So curious on your thoughts. Thank you!!

[@bjorne46]

Hey James. Saw the line-up, and would be very surprised if the Fireboard didn't come out on top. Though I am surprised you didn't took the BBQ Guru in the mix. Looks like I've made the right choice 3 years ago, still very happy with my Fireboard. Also; I use the big baffle plate with my FB blower, and flip it 90 degrees so that the backing plate faces up. Just a little more waterproofing that way. And; I might have missed it... but the FB is also compatible with the use of Powerbanks. Anyhow, thanks for the review and time+effort that went into this video.

[@onotsamada]

Just got the FB2 and it’s awesome for programming and alerts. WSM gives better mark than those Kamados you focus on due to its inefficiency and therefore stronger fire and airflow.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

It is a great value

[@etherealshade]

Love my fireboard, got it originally to use with my akorn and it works just as well on my kamado joe now. Added a spark as well its so easy to use even my wife doesn't object to using them for her cooks too.

[@bdabus]

Thanks for doing this video! You made a rather challenging decision very easy and straightforward. Exactly what I was looking for.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TheDarienJim]

Awesome review. Been using the FB500 for several years with BGE and it works well but your comments are spot on. I would say though it’s been rained on several times and it still works. I do wish I had the battery pack as I don’t have an electrical outlet nearby.

[@lakorai2]

Just get literally any USB battery bank that supports power delivery. Problem solved.

[@tonyflo04]

I’ve been a FireBoard user since the FBX11, currently I have the FireBoard 2 Drive and it runs my Masterbuilt Gravity 1050 with an interface cable from The BBQHQ…it runs my 1050 flawlessly. The ability to set max fan percentage is key to it holding temp. The drive program and analysis features make it the best in class.( I have had issues with a fan adapter plate for my Kettle Joe, just can’t get it to fit. I agree it’s built to last, I’ve had the FB2Drive in snow and rain and ice and it’s chugs along without any issues. Apparently the FireBoard can use thermalworks signals probes as well as FireBoard probes. If I could get the fan to fit properly in my Kettle Joe, it’d be more than perfect.

[@mikecoughlin4128]

Before you send them out use them on the offsets. People look to this type of device often to lessen the care of an offset. Not the feeding, lol. That still has to happen! Lots of the fan setup have adapters for common offset damper installation.

[@praetorxyn]

Expected and objectively correct result. I've been using a Fireboard for a couple years probably, and it's rock solid. I don't even think the warranty is something to get hung up on, as when mine was out of warranty, I forgot to unplug the probes after a cook one day, pulled the wires to take them into the kitchen to clean, and pulled my Fireboard off onto about a 4 or 5 foot drop on concrete. It still worked completely fine, but I think port 3 or something didn't work anymore. So while I didn't NEED to, I called Fireboard to see about a replacement, and I think they charged me $30-50 for an out of warranty replacement, something like that. I haven't actually been able to use the blower fan though, as I can't get it to attach to the original version of the SnS Kamado. I couldn't get the BBQ Guru to attach either, etc. I think they revised that kamado now and this shouldn't be a problem anymore.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

good to hear about the service, thanks for sharing

[@hazardo4378]

I use a Fireboard 2 drive on an XL BGE. It allows me to get out to the shops without worrying for a couple of hours when I'm doing some beef ribs*. The biggest issue with blowers IMO is that they can't stop a runaway temp spike which I expect the smobot would be capable of, so ideally I'd like a holistic combination of both of them. *I was in the supermarket during a rib cook and this South African lady who I'd chatted to the week before asked "Are you not BBQing today?" Out came the mobile "Yes I am, and I've got a steady 110C at the moment" 😄

[@bw935]

You can with the fireboard. In the setting you can limit the percent of fan speed. I limit mine to 10 percent or less to avoid any temp over spikes whatsoever. Sure it may overshoot 5-10 degrees but that’s no biggie in the bbq world. But I have never seen a temp run off. Plus I have my draft door closed enough that it would struggle to get any additional air. It still maintains a flat line in fridgid cold temps and windy days as long as the vents are pointed out of the way. Just a few extra things I have found. I usually use these devices during the winter season.

[@anthonychan1686]

I just got my Big Joe set up. Can’t wait to start cranking out great cooks with your videos as my guide.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Hope you enjoy

[@anthonychan1686]

Do you have any videos about what you’d consider to be “critical” accessories? I got the Big Joe I. It was on deep sale and I couldn’t justify the cost difference for the II or III.

[@TheSillyKitchenwithSylvia]

Firstly OMG your thumbnail for this is epic!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Hahah thanks 🙏

[@drjdchan]

Fantastic indepth review! Have you tried cooking a brisket at 275 then letting the fireboard drop to 150 without taking everything out first? Is it practical to be able to do that or would you need two different kamados?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

That’s why I got it. I tested on my pastrami and actually had to go down to 100f for the meat to be holding 145. Needs more work but it can do it

[@1981craigc]

Thanks for your advice James, I've just ordered the Fireboard based on your findings. My question is, how would you go from a ~275F brisket cook to a 150F hot hold in the KJ? Would you take the brisket out while the KJ decreased in temp? Would the Fireboard be able to bring the temp down from ~275F to ~150F? How long would that take and what would the impact be on the coals and the flavours they would be giving off?? Perhaps this is a good idea for a new video, outlining how this could be achieved on a single KJ?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

I started backing it down as the brisket was finishing. Pulled it out for 30min and really cut down the temps.

[@mulefan1977]

Pony car was more like 40 years ago 😉 time flies. Great video

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Oh gosh you’re right lol. I had the first gen Hyundai accent and that was over 20 years ago for that

[@Nede4ever]

Hi James, Many thanks for this super informative video and all the time you put into your channel! Im currently looking for a controller as I have some trouble keeping the temperatures low and am a bit struggling on which one I should take. I’m leaning towards the Smobot and the Fireboard. Just one quick question. Did you compare the Smobot and Fireboard fuel usage? I assume that the Smobot uses a lot less fuel than the FireBoard, is that correct?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

i didn't compare fuel usage but i suspect based on previous tests any manual option would use the least fuel

[@Nede4ever]

Thanks! I think I’ll buy the FireBoard. We can’t get the smobot here in the Netherlands unfortunately

[@Burdette305]

Can you use these on your offset please, would especially like to see the smobot on a stack. Set them at 250 though so its realistic and hopefully with the draw of an offset you wont have a flame out

[@kgrinda]

I have the ThermoWorks Signal and Billows. I also have the Fireboard 2 drive and Spark. I love the Fireboard. That is all I use. My Signal just sits on shelf. I like thermoworks products but Fireboard with the Spark is just a better product. And the fact it is Made in America.

[@SteveLoweMedia]

I've had a Flame Boss 400 and now the Thermoworks Billows. I'm not too sure about the FB 500 but one thing I liked about the way the FB works is that it's a constant stream of air vs the Thermoworks which pulses. I just found the FB has more consistent temperatures.

[@maximpavlov2599]

Hi James! Thanks for the amazingly informative video! I've been thinking about buying a temp controller for my BJ2 for quite some time now, your video really helped clear things up! If I don't win any of the other 3 controllers - definitely will go for Fireboard 😁

[@wesleydrew9242]

I've had my FIreboard 2 Drive for over 2 years and it's been a great device. One thing I haven't played with much is the programming function. I would love to see a video where you create a perfect program for cooking a brisket that includes a hot hold. Maybe you can figure out the stages and the internal temps to trigger the stages so that you don't overshoot your target during the hold? Thanks for giving us another great video, James.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

I’ve got a pastrami on at the moment and had to pivot. I first tried my dojoe setup to see if the fireboard could contain the fire but it couldn’t stop the run away train with the extra venting the dojoe provides So plan b… moved it to the series 1 and set a program to run 200f overnight until the brisket hits 195 and then drop to 150 so will see if that’s the right programming choice

[@wesleydrew9242]

@@SmokingDadBBQ really looking forward to hearing about your results. I've got a prime packer in the freezer I plan on cooking soon and if that works, I'm going to give it a try.

[@bobcarey5384]

I would also like to figure out more about the drive programming especially for a turkey with Christmas around the corner

[@bandagraph]

I made a heater meter 10 yrs ago or so. Seems pretty similar to the fireboard. It was awesome albeit temperamental due to my shoddy soldering skills. I ended up moving away from it as i became more relaxed with temperature flux (within 10-15 degrees). The long hot hold does seem like a decent reason to get one but like Mr Dad said - i think it is overkill for your normal use case. Just set up a high or low alarm on a wireless probe and don't look at the temperature unless the alarm goes off.

[@TheHelicapt]

Question, for the fireboard, does the top vent stay completely closed ? Or slightly open and to what mark ?

[@m9hrdad]

Great video! Does the Spark have a speaker to alert you when a temperature has been reached? I plan to sync a Fireboard Drive 2 with the Spark.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

It has haptic vibrations. Not sure about a speaker. Will check next time

[@m9hrdad]

@@SmokingDadBBQ Thank you Sir! I want something to wake me up during the night when I have a brisket on. If you know of a device or ecosystem to buy into, please let me know.

[@charlesloeffler333]

Unrelated Question: I’m interested in transporting a Kamado Joe to other locations, such as a friends lake house. Probably, I’d only move around the little one. Have you done this? If so, should one remove and carefully pack the ceramic pieces? Thanks

[@penguinpuck]

Awesome and was waiting for this ever since the iKammand went down. I got the smobot and its been great and actually supprised it didnt do so well at 150. How does the 150 long hot hold brisket work? Cook on something else and prep the 150 kamado for the hold since we cant cool it down fast enough from 2xx deg?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks for your patience. Plan is to remove the gear while the brisket rests down to 140 with everything shut and then turn on the fan for the hot hold

[@daleshrock5664]

Downside of flame boss is the probes and customer service. I still have the flame boss but switched to thermoworks as there probes and wires are very durable. Both maintain temp very well but if you cook a lot you will be constantly purchasing probes with flame boss.

[@luvyesmusici4886]

I always do my research before I buy anything of quality and cost. My grilling game plateaued with the addition of my FireBoard 2 drive with my Weber Summit Charcoal/Kamado. There’s nothing manly about staying up with your cooker outside overnight, and into the morning. Sure, there are some folks who say you don’t need any of these. However, it is foolish not to have the proper tool for a long cook, when dealing with charcoal. I’ll save the less manly pallet grills for the soft boys. LOL

[@TheWinwin4all]

The next test video should be the battle between this Fireboard on classic Joe vs. new Kamado pelletJoe.

[@dominiclacroix9316]

I really like watching your videos! Greetings from holland! Why dont you reviewed the inkbird edition i have the old and new version. The are really great! And for a really low price.

[@itny2009]

Hey, I didn’t see 1 for an offset smoker. Do you have any recommendations for for the offsets and thank you by the way for doing all this content has been very very helpful.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

There’s not really a good solution for an offset because the firebox unlike a Kamado won’t hold enough fuel for the entire cook on most models. The old country g2 I loaded with 20 lbs of charcoal and got 8hrs of low and slow heat but as these pits are seldom air tight once the fuel source ignites there’s no stopping it running away even with the vents shut so I don’t think a fan would have any more luck. Steve from smoke trials tried a tip top temp on the smoke stack in a video once but I don’t believe he’s used it again

[@scottboettcher1344]

Oh, wish this had come out two weeks ago. I had been using a Smobot for several years now, my only issue was having to disassemble the vent assembly a few times to scrub it clean, or it would stick. The last time I used it the display lit up, but no numbers on the display, so I guess it's toast (oh, and I never did get it hooked up to my wifi either). Thermoworks was running a sale with a free Billows with the Signals, so I got that; wish I'd known about the full-on/full-off fan operation, but its not a biggie. As someone below mentioned, Thermoworks items just don't seem to break so I'm satisfied. - Botch

[@bw935]

Thermoworks makes great units. I have the smoke x4 and the billows along with fireboards. Picked up the x4 due to fireboard having an issue and not sending out notifications a few times. So I don’t trust it a 100 percent. I have learned with Fireboard to use redundancy if it’s an overnight cook or something you are going to be away from since you are relying on it. Seems late night cooks and late night weekend cooks is when I have encountered the problems. I usually check to make sure notifications are being sent before I start a cook. They are usually rock solid but things happen. That’s why I run a backup especially if I know I may catch a nap in between smoking. Just a few things I have encountered over the last 2 to 3 yrs of use.

[@stewharr]

I have the Fireboard 2 Pro that I use to control my Masterbuilt Gravity 800. Love this controller.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

its legit for sure

[@fattony1a]

Have you looked at INKBIRD ISC-027BW? It seems like one of the more cost effective options.

[@JBUCN]

I’ve got a FlameBoss. After working for two years, I cannot get it to work in any way. I then purchased a Smobot and I’ll never look back. It’s a small community because they don’t do a lot of advertising. But goodness, I’m the guy that “swears” by it. It’s expensive, but does its job flawlessly.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

They are good people and community no doubt

[@bnhik]

Between the Fireboard on a Big Joe and the Konnected Joe, which would you say is better overall?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

There have been some reports of the fans melting on the connected. This isn’t something that happened to be but based on that I would take a regular one and add a fan

[@crashcopter6000]

Thanks for a great and informative video! For what it's worth - about 8% of men are colorblind. Most (Including me) have a red/green deficiency. While I prefer the Fireboard as my go to controller, the Thermoworks Signals channel ap colors are much easier for a color blind person to use as the channel colors are farther apart in the color spectrum. Since a red/green deficiency makes it hard to distinguish color differences across the red/green spectrum, your slides were a bit of a challenge 🙂. At any rate, I thought that might interest you. Thank you again!

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Thanks for letting me know. Hope the verbal explanation helped make the info more clear but I will think about a different scorecard in the future

[@shaneandmaryjane4927]

James, you gave me the confidence to buy a Kamado Joe and start more live fire cooking! Thanks! Any chance you could do a KJ Beef Wellington?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Good idea. Let me see if I can get that done before holidays

[@PB4Y2]

I have had the Fireboard for about a year now and am very pleased with it so far. But one other con for it is that if the battery in the unit dies and needs to be recharged, there is no indication on the app. There is an indication on the unit itself, but there is no battery status on the app. In fact it will just hold the last value it had when the battery died. Not a major problem as a fully charged battery will last several hours but for long or overnight cooks, I now always make sure the unit is plugged in to a wall outlet.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

good call out. i also read later after recording this that the fire board can charge with any USB but the signals can be damaged by using either 5v or 12v USB power (can’t remember which)

[@bdelbanco]

@@SmokingDadBBQyeah. Fireboard can use either 5v or 12v usb power banks. I use a cheap 5v one for overnight cooks. I even modded my masterbuilt gravity series to use the Fireboard as the controller!

[@jimmymiller4732]

Jamie, this video has to be by far the most informative video that you have produced to date. I have been thinking about buying a smart controller for a number of years but keep putting it off because of all the variables that there are on the market. That and I cannot see paying hundreds of dollars for a controller that is not waterproof given that I do not have a covered deck I refuse to risk spending that much money on a product only to have it rain during the night only to wake up and find out that my new controller was destroyed.

[@CoolJay77]

Who the heck is Jamie, Jimmy? LOL Just kidding. Cheers.

Great video. Thank you. Maybe I missed it if you commented on it during the video, but why is the Kamado Joe iKamand not included in the test?

[@dread1187]

Ikamand is dead. It no longer functions.

[@D-Mag]

What are your thoughts on the BBQ Guru on a kamado?

[@brooktrout2760]

Any thoughts about the Konnected Joe and these aftermarket devises?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

This was my Konnected review - kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5-ml5-GbNmcsJIsi=EyICzBZOjrY4a1DF I would prefer external electronics for the optional use vs every time for me

[@maureengosselin3185]

I have the FireBoard 2 Pro and I really love it and the app on my apple cell phone is really easy to use.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Agree it’s very intuitive

[@Cbbq]

Found your new web site but cannot sign up for your newsletter…. Will try later. Cheers

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

i just tested it on a spare account and it worked, went to my junk folder though. maybe check there?

[@andyp562lakers]

Is it the same as just buying the kamado joe connect.... I bought it yesterday.. The kamado joe connect..waiting on it

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

The Konnected is only available in the classic size and gen 2 vs 3 dimensions so depends what you’re after. Konnected is an all in one out of the box where this is third party … the Konnected didn’t have the programming options when I last tested it but that might be coming

[@samrmills]

I wonder if the INKBIRD ISC-027BW would make this list?

[@chef_doug]

Hi James, I would think that the robot one would be affected by grease build up over time.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

A friend has one and does have to clean it but says it’s not been an issue

[@emmgeevideo]

And the Fireboard is made in Kansas City! Great BBQ roots! (my home town)

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Very cool!

[@Smoke_N_EmbersBBQ]

@smokingdadbbq i agree with you. Im all in with my fireboard 2 pro and spark and i cant wait for their wireless probe so much that i sold my meater block already hehe

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

Excited to test it myself

[@polsok44]

I started with a bbq guru worked great but wanted to run from my phone upgraded to fireboard drive with the pit viper fan i had

[@socomon69]

same

[@Justanoilworker]

A great review as always James!

[@KingBjord]

wonder about doing a gas assist mod for the kamados or like the connected joe and element in the bottom?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y6DOe3aqi86kmKc

[@kevinmason9579]

Maybe I missed it but what is the upper vent setting you’re using?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

40% less than what you’d normally use

[@KV-ed3pi]

Any thoughts on the Inkbird isc 027bw, if you have those ?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

haven't tested that one

[@jeoffbenzos4959]

Have you tried this on an offset smoker?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

No I’m haven’t. Airflow isn’t an issue but having enough fuel in the firebox without it all igniting would be the tricky thing

[@igotJesus88]

Finally a popular KZbinr gives the fireboard attention. I have had it for a couple of years and it is amazing. Before I moved to an offset I was using it with my Masterbuilt gravity. It was so easy to hook up to the stock fan.

[@luvyesmusici4886]

You haven’t been paying attention to some of the most popular channels/guys then. Sure, when I got mine, it was being pushed/promoted by an Englishman, but two of the big guys over here, must have gotten their Fireboards around the same time I did, because we have all been on the same page. You may have to order some new probes to replace a couple after use.

[@igotJesus88]

@@luvyesmusici4886 do you mind telling me what big KZbinrs are using them? Yea, I have already replaced all my probes with thermoworks probes due to issues.

[@dwaynem2618]

Yet another amazing video!!! I can attest to the long rest at 150 in my kamado with my fireboard. When my brisket is probe tender, I take it off and put it on my counter to cool to about 180 internal. Meanwhile, I pull everything out of my kamado including my ash basket and leave it open to cool to around 140-ish. I then wrap my brisket, put everything back into my kamado including more charcoal for the long rest and set my fireboard to 150. 12 hours (or more) later, epic and consistent results every time.

[@jwilson086]

Great video! Agree on the FireBoard, great product.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

They are all good. But I think it stands above the others

[@EricBorgen]

I had a sick feeling in my stomach when this video popped up because I had just bought a Fireboard and Fan to replace the iKammand (that is now bricked) 20 hours ago - but your video made me feel better about my choice!

[@bw935]

Fireboard is an amazing unit. Just check to make sure notifications is working. Have had a few times that wouldn’t work and almost lost a few good cooks. I added thermoworks as backups for the just in case. But those are the days I am not around the komado and in the winter when I don’t want to monitor and adjust temps outside.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

good choice. can’t go wrong here but i think its the best

[@Alpha_Fox]

When is the Weber Summit Kamado review due?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

I moved it to spring since I have also picked up a goldens cast iron Kamado … not as many people watch those types of videos this time of year sorry so to make sure some people see it I booked it for early spring

[@apriliamille1234]

There is a cable adapter out there to run your masterbuilt off the fireboard

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

That’s awesome

[@abehertel8146]

Any thoughts on the Inkbird Smoke Controller (ISC-027BW)?

[@nathanlewis5131]

I'm not familiar with the ISC-027BW, but have used the ISC-007BW extensively for over 2 years with no issues. I will say the app design isn't the greatest and at one point I think there were 3 unique Inkbird apps that would work with the ISC-007BW so it was a confusing mess for a while. But once you get used to the app and its quirks you can't beat the price on the Inkbird products.

[@timgallagher6529]

Great Video !!!nnI'm seeing a fireboard in my future.

[@hosedragger9001]

Love the signals but waiting for it to fail for 5 years to try a Firebird lol. The wait continues.

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

i dont think i have had any thermoworks product fail on me come to think of it

[@boltonweekender]

Does anyone know how easily the fireboard would fit to a kettle joe? Can’t find anything online!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Amazingly thorough - and making me question my life choices. Again! I Bet it All to Prove the Fireboard is All Hype!

[@barrylipham]

Fireboard hands down.

[@zootechdrum]

API hooks? Are you a programmer?

[@mikecraig8442]

Did you mention how to enter the giveaway?

[@SmokingDadBBQ]

I did but hid it in the middle of movie … I mean video 😂.