Masterbuilt Digital Charcoal Smoker Review | Initial Thoughts & First Light

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Did you like this video? Here's a smoker and video I'd recommend instead: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i5y0fKCZf51_rbc

[@lollipop84858]

Nope.

[@JoeAnshien]

You are right. I have the MB 800 and love it.

[@janwheeler87]

So glad I came across your videos! My hubby and I watched your Excellent video on assembly of this smoker (my Christmas present from hubby) and 2 years after your video, Masterbuilt did change the wiring directions!! Can't wait to begin smoking meats, I used my smaller Bradley cabinet smoker for 2 years until it went kaput! Thanks!

[@Grim_Veteran_usaf]

Everyone! Anderson's assembly video is a MUST WATCH! Anderson, nice job saving me assembly time. I am also in Ohio. I bought mine at lowes 2 days ago and seasoned it last night. This smoker maintained the desired temp within 5° the whole time. 1st smoke will be this weekend. Thanks again Anderson!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

That’s awesome hear Steve! I do these videos to help others, so it’s always great to get some feedback! Thanks for the support man!

[@naziyatamira385]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow said oh oh ok ok oh oh my

[@uguana11]

Entry level smoker, entry level video and perfect for helping me through my first cook. Thank you!

[@dkidl2000]

Hey, Tommy at the Gallery Backyard BBQ just got one of these too, just did a rack of ribs. He did the unboxing and assembly. The assembly was a PAIN on his channel, and seems to be built very cheap. And Tommy had the partition in during his cook and put it up to 400 degrees and it got there no problem.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I saw that he had the partition in there on his burn in... I was surprised to see that because the instructions clearly state that the partition must be out. That may be something that I experiment with later, but I just followed the instructions lol

[@stratoscape]

Great video!! I spent the afternoon assembling this and had the exact same questions bout the build order! If anyone stumbles across this post, please skip ahead in the instructions to find ALL the components that need to be hooked up BEFORE you stand the smoker right side up to complete the build or you will end up partially breaking it back down to flip it back over to do it later, I actually got lucky just did it while I had it upside down :-D

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Yeah I was a bit baffled by their order of operations

[@slacra8619]

awesome review dude. i really appreciate it. it's so hard to find honest reviews. I really appreciate the time you took to make this!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I always go for honesty. And I honestly wasn’t impressed with this one

[@DanDelzell]

Thanks for the initial review. I have the 1050 and love it, but it addressed some of the failings of the 560, including the power cord issue you have. I was excited about this smoker, but after some of your comments I think I'm going to hold off. The lack of insulation or even double walled construction is bothersome.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

You’re better off with the 1050. Close to the same amount of space and a better constructed grill/smoker.

[@travishowell7560]

Good luck with our winters. I found on the single walled smokers I always had to wrap a canvas tarp around it

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Yeah I think I’ll need to get myself a blanket for this one, but I’m going to run it without it to see

[@billwielbruda2000]

I have heard people using welding blankets.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I installed a gasket yesterday to help seal the cabinet up, and I’ll probably get a welding blanket sometime soon. Thanks for watching Bill

[@CadaverBuffet]

Great video. Thank you for being very informative. I just recently purchased my MB gravity 560 due to your videos, and I love it. Thank you very much!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Awesome! I’m glad to hear that I was able to help with the decision. The 560 cooks some great food!

[@acemak14721]

@@AndersonsSmokeShowdoes the gravity smoker smoke as well as the upright smoker?

[@shickjr1]

Thanks for the great tutorial! I will be using the info when I get my smoker up and running this week.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I hope that it helps you when you get yours

[@MD62383]

Thanks for the honest review. I was about to order one of these but changed my mind.

[@kathyorock751]

I was really considering purchasing this smoker until learning from your video that it's a single-wall construction, now I'm hesitant. Being an Ohioan also, I'm looking forward to more videos showing how this smoker handles all that an Ohio winter can throw at it.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

This smoker made great food, but I was not impressed with the build quality. Granted it was only $350, so I can’t expect too much… but it could’ve been a little sturdier with double wall construction.

[@Johnycakee]

I purchased a Masterbuilt upright based on one of your reviews. Its so far the best value for money BBQ I have purchased. I'm not sure how long it will run faultlessly,. but so far its 5 stars from me. Cant wait to see how this cooks for you.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

That’s awesome to hear! And they do make some dang good food!

[@4MzBBQandGRILL]

Looks interesting. Can’t wait to see some cooks on it 👍🏻

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Me either! I think that this smoker will make some banging food! I think my first cook is going to have to be ribs!

[@SweetHavok]

I get taking out the partition so it would be able to get to the right temperature. But think you should have left that partition inside of the upper cabinet, to burn off any oils.

[@DeadBrokeBBQ]

Looks like a nice cooker Andrew! I wonder how many bowling balls you can trade for this one?? ha ha I wish it was double walled but maybe they will build a better charcoal one in the future! Thanks for sharing Andrew!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Hahaha I may be able to get a ball and a used towel 🤣🤣

[@Tedzepplin]

I bought this smoker and your assembly video made it much easier. I know this is an old video, but i just did the first burn in on it this morning and I followed the booklet. I left the partition in and it will most definitely get up to 400 F. I know, because mine got to 485 F and was still climbing until I opened the door to blow off the heat before it was destroyed. The fan shut off at 275 F, but holy majoly! That thing just ran away from reality very quickly! I used exactly 4 pounds of charcoal and have no idea what made it take the left turn into the wall. I used my barrel smoker for decades and never had this happen. I'm curious to hear your thoughts on what i may have done wrong.

[@burntdog8277]

I use a combination of charcoal and wood in my masterbuilt electric smoker food comes out very good I love the masterbuilt products

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

They do make some great food! Thanks for watching!

[@bruceharlick3322]

I was hoping you'd take a look at this one. I love my 560 but there are times I want more room to do 5-6 racks of ribs and this looks like it might be a solution. I'll be looking for your cook videos on this thing.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Hey Bruce thanks for watching! Yeah I really like the concept of the 560 which is why I chose to grab one of these too. I will say that I wish they made a more stout version on this... I would've paid $500-600. I will confirm that there are videos in the works as we speak... The assembly video is already filmed as well as rib video! Unfortunately there aren't enough hours in the day lol!

[@joealonso2692]

Great job on this video! Been watching your videos lately, especially the Gravity series ones, as I have been in the market for the 1050... then I stumbled onto THIS video - now you messed up my head (LOL). I have been reading online of several complaints regarding the Gravity models, and how certain mods need to be made for what I am calling, simply, "Design Flaws". That has given me much pause. I am coming from the MES 30 (which crapped out during an overnight smoke) and been wanting to transition towards charcoal. I sense THIS model has fewer elements than can go wrong, when compared to the Gravity series. You mentioned something on this video that confused me... You said that during the burn-in process, to start at 275* for some time, and then to crank it to 400*. But soon after that comment, you stated that once we set the temp at a certain level, you can't change it once that temp it hit. So... how does one "bump up" temp? Would I need to shut down the controller and re-start at new desired temp WHILE the smoker is till burning? Exactly what does that partition do, in terms of keeping or removing it depending on your desired temp set? Being that this is not a gravity fed smoker, do you feel this model will burn less fuel since it's not being force "down". Can we really hold a 8-10 hour smoke with just ONE fill of charcoal, or do you sense we need to replenish? And finally... why in God's name didn't MB place the controller on the top!! My knees hurt just watching you set temp. LOL. Thanks again for your great vids - much appreciate it.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Joe thanks for reaching out! First off I will tell you that if you are interested in these charcoal smokers, the Gravity series is probably going to be the better option. They both make great food, but the Gravity series is built better, easier to run, and more versatile. The issue with the temperature isn't written clearly... and I guess that I didn't explain it as good as I could've. First off the partition is to divert the "burn" of the charcoal which slows the burning process down. This inherently will keep the temps lower. You can't decide mid smoke to remove that.... which is where the temperature limitation comes in. Once the fire is going you are either using the partition, or you aren't and you are sort of stuck with the temperatures that its capable of with/without the partition. In my opinion and from experience, the gravity fed will provide longer run time vs the vertical... and its easier to refill too.

[@joealonso2692]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow ON POINT!!! I made up my mind already - I'm going with the 1050. Thanks again, and keep up the amazing work you do. I know we all appreciate the time and effort it takes to put these videos together. Best...

[@anti-audit2131]

See it`s been 3 years now, any issues with the control module due to moisture? After several uses our controller died due to suspect moisture which warranty replaced which will hopefully cure the wifi pairing issues. Love to hear your honest thoughts on these issues.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I sold this thing in less than 6 weeks after this video was made. It made good food, but was lackluster when it came to build quality

[@leeroyexcavator9149]

Great video! Looking to buy a smoker was looking at this one. Not Sure now what I will buy. May be just building my own out of better material. ? I can weld and fabricate good enuff I think to build something that will work just as good..

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Check out Fireboard controllers, if you built one you could use one of those to run it

[@zachcooper6843]

That's interesting grill design, I have the masterbuilt pro and its literally built like a mini fridge, idk why they would have a gasket on the fuel chamber but not the cooking chamber. Will be intersting to see what you smoke on it. I know the vertical smokers have a bit more heat control.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Yeah I was pretty surprised to see that there was no gasket on the door.... I think the bottom door has it so that they have better temperature control as we know more air equals more heat. I plan on doing a ribs cook on this very soon!

[@brooksjohnson1885]

Possibly for better temperature control. Harder to control the temperature if the heat can’t escape. If the heat escapes, it can at least use more fuel.

[@victorbenner539]

For a introduction charcoal smoker with built in digital control that's a very good/low price. Of course it's going to not have ALL the things you get on a more expensive smoker ( I'm currently waiting for my IVS from Lonestargrillz, can't wait) but this sounds like a great starter. Or something for the pellet smoker guy who wants to check out charcoal. As to temperature change problems, vertical smokers can go up in temperature easily, but can be difficult to bring back down on temperature. Its because once fuel gets lit,it stays lit until it burns up. Giving it less air can only reduce heat a bit so it can take awhile to bring things down. It's something we just have to deal with, but once up to temperature you can walk away for hours ( or sleep through the night, ahhh wonderful sleep 😴 ) Interesting review, have a great day.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks for watching Victor! Yeah this would be a great beginner charcoal smoker. Learn the ropes and if you really like charcoal (some people don’t, including my cameraman). This smoker isn’t perfect but it’s cheap and makes great food! We all dream about getting a Lonestar one day!

[@victorbenner539]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow looking at the construction you showed saying "cheap" might not be fair. I prefer inexpensive. But definitely a good value. The starting price on LSG's large IVS is $3,000. That's before all the other goodies and shipping ( I live in the sw portion of Washington state, so shipping is a thing) And like you pointed out the capacity for a smoker of that price range is pretty darned good. I feel confident to suggest someone who is looking for their first cooker to check it out. Im curious about how it cooks. So do some cooks and let us know. FYI, I'm thinking about getting a pet rabbit and calling it " Traigger" 😄🐇 hope I spelled that right.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Well I consider it cheap when they have other smokers in the same price range that are double walled.

[@victorbenner539]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow I have to admit I haven't been looking at Backyard cookers in awhile so im not up on them. I did notice that they were using thin sheet metal construction but at that price range that doesn't surprise me. My only true concern about this cooker is its longevity. How long will everything work. Myself I have two offsets,two 22" wsm's,two propane powered vertical water smoker ( don't tease me about the propane,they work wonderfully for my smoked salmon, hmmm ) and the big IVS arriving in February but if I was just starting out this smoker you showed looks promising so again I'm looking forward to seeing how it performs and lasts. Have a great day.

[@nicolassplichal7966]

Can you turn the fan on with out selecting a temperature and using coals to heat the smoker? I would like to cold smoke out of this with my amaze smoke tube in the charcoal box.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Unfortunately not exactly. The fan runs when the controller is trying to heat up the smoker. I guess you could set a “fake” temperature and it would turn on, but after a certain time it would error out with a flame out error... because the smoker couldn’t get up to temp within the allotted time.

[@alman3071]

Nice video. can wood chips or pallets be used instead of wood chunks?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

You can throw wood chips on there, but you aren’t going to get as good of a result as chunks of wood... you’d have to sit there all day and add them LOL. Pellets is a no go. They get way too Smokey and not in a good way

[@thegrumpyolgringo]

Great review. Masterbuilt seems to be coming our with some good innovations, but they need to back producing quality products. I had two of their electric smokers, I loved them. They were well built. Now they seem to be going for cheap. Nicely Done. Thanks for sharing.😎.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Yeah I like my 560, and I’m excited to try this out on some ribs this week.... I am not sure how it will hold up overtime though.

[@acemak14721]

Hello, and thank you for your review. How did you manage to seal the top door? Or did you? It seems like a lot of smoke escapes from my door. I also think mine is defective as the door is sagging.

[@dominicanyor6590]

Thanks for the video. It was very helpful when putting it together.

[@MadHorseBBQ]

Great video Andrew! Love the unbiased review before you even used it! I bet it will put out some good grub! 🍻

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Mad Horse BBQ thanks for watching Brian! I’ve got some spare ribs that will be going in there this holiday weekend!

[@dylanhamilton1221]

I have this smoker, and he’s right about the build steps… goofy order. Also, mine had the screws mislabeled. However, I can tell you they will definitely get over 275 with the partition installed. I know this because i didn’t know what the partition was, and I left it in and ran for 4 hours at 310.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Yeah I’ve seen the same thing too. It can get a little wild with the temperature. I found that using gaskets helped

[@LakerTriangle]

Well made and very informative! This was recommended by YT because I've been researching vertical smokers. No the one for me with the thin metal.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Glad that you found the video useful!

[@garbageman18]

Thank you for the info. What is the lowest temp you can set the smoker too? Only info I can find is that it goes to 275.

[@Grim_Veteran_usaf]

Just picked this model up today. I too, live in Ohio. I can't wait to use it this weekend. Going to smoke some cheese first, in this cold climate. I'll post an update. Good video!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Enjoy man! Smoked cheese is one thing that I’ve yet to do!

[@lollipop84858]

Never ended up posting your update did you. I knew you wouldnt

[@Grim_Veteran_usaf]

@@lollipop84858 Here's an update for you. Fucking doors broke off on the 3rd smoke. Thanks for reminding me about something from 3 years ago. Good job!

[@mariadelcarmenlopez8716]

I love you video and I got a question; can I cook bread and how? Thank you 😊

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I haven’t attempted bread in my smokers, but I don’t see why not.

[@mariadelcarmenlopez8716]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow Thank you so much 😊

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

No problem! Thanks for watching

[@Supreme.Dark.Overl0rd]

Very informative. Thank you, this video answered all my questions about this smoker. Unfortunately, I don't think this really what I'm looking for now. Back to the hunt though!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Glad it was helpful!

[@PhillipMarcum-qw1rc]

Can you show how the wires hook to controller plz

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Unfortunately I don’t have mine any longer. There aren’t too many wires, so it’s not too much of a guessing game. When I got mine, one set of wires was slightly shorter than the others so it was pretty obvious which went where.

[@tonypauline225]

Where is the assembly video?? I'm going to purchase one of these in a few weeks.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/bpXbl6SYas5-j6M

[@kenrachels1021]

I have a brisket on the Masterbuilt Charcoal Smoker. I have the temp set at 250 and it started out ok but now when the temp drops below 250 the fan is not turning on. the temp is holding around 245 and the fan is not coming on to increase the temp. Any suggestions?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Ken Rachels I’m not sure what the deadband is on the controller, but I wouldn’t be concerned with 5 degrees at this point, it could also be running so slow that you don’t hear it... as this is a PID controller which would mean that the control variable is the fan speed and it would adjust the speed according to the amount of error (difference between set point and actual temp)

[@ulyssesbenton8082]

Is it charcoal only or can I used 🪵 wood ?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

You can mix some wood in with the charcoal, but the charcoal must be the primary fuel source.

[@ulyssesbenton8082]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow Understood thank you

[@getjimmysbbq]

Well done bro, very informative, educational, and totally unbiased. I totally get the bowling ball deal. Bowling is my game, lol.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

My friends own a Pro Shop and wanted to get into smoking. I have a slight bowling ball addiction, so it was a great trade for both of us!

[@getjimmysbbq]

right on bro ✊ lol, keep on doing your thang!

[@MrDavisel]

How did it hold you in the winter…? I'm in minnesota should I get one?

[@dlandes14]

I'm confused. You said once it hits the set temp you can't change it but you said for the burn in you were going to run it at 275 then bump it up to 400?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Dlandes 14 yeah I thought about that too... I was reading that directly out of the manual. I’ll have to look again but that’s what it said.

[@JimMitton]

I have one of these but not sure what I think of it. I went through the seasoning process but the fan wouldn’t shut off at the set temperature and I can’t figure out why the fan won’t shut off at the set temperatures. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I wasn't a fan. Sold it after one cook

[@jonbuettner270]

New subscriber. I like the gravity series and this one. I have a pellet smoker. So I am looking for something to do with charcoal. Kind of in between a pellet smoker and an offset. I look forward to see more videos on how you like this.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I can tell you that I can’t wait to get an offset!

[@oceanjunctionpodcastnetwor3805]

I just ordered mine. What kind of seal did you put on the door

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

It was an Oklahoma Joe’s gasket kit I bought at lowes

[@frazierguyrage7649]

Nice detailed clip not to long not to short NOT BORING THX YOU THAT MAN

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks for watching!

[@rookieinvestments3663]

How do you shut it down ?suffocate the fire ? Or only add enough coal for what you will use ?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Let it burn out. There’s no vents to close to suffocate the fire

[@rookieinvestments3663]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow yea I hate that ,I have a 560 as well and I’m used to just using my slides to shut er down

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Yeah I think they dropped the ball on that with this one

[@jamesgordy880]

Have you insulated one of these for cold weather?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

No, I didn’t keep this long at all

[@PicklesBBQandCooking]

Masterbuilt doesn’t really seem built to last with the cheaper construction. It does look like a cool idea however. Looking forward to seeing you cook on it especially in winter. Great review Andrew!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Yeah for sure... I have to remind myself of what the price point is and really try and be reasonable with my comparisons. Regardless of build quality, I think this will make some kick ass food!

[@msullivan86]

Just got one... new to this.. doin burn in process set to 275 and it just kept on rising to 350+... how do i stop this?

[@samuelgilmore6196]

On the burnout the temp ran to 400° plus when set to 275°...when cooking on a low temp, will it run away as well ??? If so how do you control that ???

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Was the divider in?

[@samuelgilmore6196]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow which you referring to...the heat deflecter or the charcoal partition ?

[@carlnicholson8324]

Hey I'm new at this so do you put your meat in right after you light it up are do you wait for it to reach temp

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Wait for it to reach temp

[@carlnicholson8324]

Thank a

[@paulconner3765]

Question do you think I wired something wrong. The fan automatically comes on when I plug it in. Now it Shuts off when the bottom door closes and turns on when closed but just curiousbon what you think would be the issue on why the fan automatically comes on when I plug in the power

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

So does it seem to act normal when you start it up? Most of the wiring issues I have seen have been where you start it up and the entire thing shuts off.

[@paulconner3765]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow it acts normal. I thought the fan comes on once you set temp and go

[@meirowsky]

How does the Masterbuilt Digital Charcoal smoker compare to the gravity feed charcoal models? I like cooking with charcoal and am looking for the best option.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I would pick the masterbuilt gravity series over the vertical 11/10 times

[@MicJaguar]

I see you figured out that you left the glass label on. 😆 Saw you removed it. What do you think about putting pellets inside in a metal pan or something

[@yaaarightt4127]

Could you tell me what the cord is called or how I can find a replacement ? The main power cord

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I'm not sure.... I don't have this smoker any longer

[@carlnicholson8324]

Ok I have tried to use the smoker again I can't seem to get the temp to regulate I set it for 235 it stays above the temp and won't set what am I doing wrong please help

[@JB-mb6lm]

What is the yellow and silver cord in the back of the smoke that goes to the middle of the inside of the smoker? No instructions on what it does. My smoker is just beeping and not working.

[@CrossCutCreations]

That's a slick unit. I've seen those start to pop up on people's channels recently.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Yeah I tried to get mine out first, but i didn’t have the ability to get it edited in time

[@AverageJoProduction]

Great channel and I like how all videos are clear, concise, and to the point. Quick question- I love the idea of this smoker (charcoal flavor with ease of digital temperature control), but I’m concerned with the build quality. I’m considering either this smoker or the pit boss pro series 4 pellet smoker. Which do you think would be better? I like the pit boss pro series ease of use but from what some people have said online, I’m worried the pellets won’t produce enough smokey flavor? Im really disappointed with masterbuilt, I LOVE the idea for this smoker but seems like it was poor execution on their part. I’d pay $100 extra for this smoker if it was well built. Sorry for such a long comment, thanks man!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks! I’d say the quality of the Pit Boss is noticeably better! Double wall construction, sturdy, better overall. I loved the charcoal aspect, but this could’ve been better executed for sure

[@meirowsky]

Great question because I am looking at both of these models. I am looking for an alternative to cooking on my Weber kettle that has more space, ease of use and has wifi capabilities. I like the footprint of those models and they seem to produce good food. I have been leaning towards the Masterbilt Charcoal Digital Smoker because I assumed the food was taste better.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

The charcoal definitely gives a more bold smoke flavor but it wasn’t entirely impressed with the build

[@jacobhorpinjuk4241]

Yeah I had the wires wrong. Working perfectly now. I like the smoker. Not bad for the price. Plenty of size.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Awesome!

[@joetakacs2132]

I'm considering one of these. When the cook is done are you able to "snuff out" the coals for the next cook or do you have to burn out everything in the basket?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

No, it burns down until it goes out. There’s really no way around that

[@OutdoorsWithGeoff]

Great video. So coming from someone who owns a MB 560 myself, does this give you more flavor than the gravity series or is it more smoke flavor than anything? I miss the extra flavor my offset used to produce and I know that fan is just a propulsion mechanism for the heat in the 560 and dissipates any charcoal flavor. Wonder if it differs here cause you don’t get the same flavor on a 560 like you would on a Weber Kettle or offset. Not complaining. Just asking cause I’m thinking of adding a new unit.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

It’s the same technology As the 560 so I don’t think you’re going to get much different between the two. Truthfully the 560 is a better built cooker than this one by far. Have you considered a WSM?

[@TomHorsmanAmateurBBQ]

Nicely done!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks Mr. Horsman!

[@tacos_tequila]

how is the single way construction holding up?

[@aaronwilson8698]

Can you use this smoker without using the pid controller as if I wanted to use it as a traditional vertical smoker?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

It wouldn’t be recommended as there’s no way to control air flow

[@teambennett3060]

Can you use wood chips aswell?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

You can but they'll burn so quick....Use chunks

[@Cduster1]

I'm considering buying this. I'm first time smoker, but I have done a bunch on off set cooks with my weber kettle. It's alot of work maintaining heat, coals etc. How did masterbuilt hold up? It's on sale at my local store. I'll be smoking jerky a lot and in cold weather thanks

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I thought the overall quality was poor, so I ended up selling it fairly quickly

[@levi-oy7ew]

If you had to buy this one or the gravity feed. Which one would you pick?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Gravity fed 100 out of 100 times

[@grizxly_1]

I need to buy a replacement chord for this smoker does anyone know what type of adapter I need

[@timtoles2843]

Great video, as I mentioned in another post. Any tips for adding charcoal during a long cook? One load is only going to get me 4-5 hours at 200F. Just doing the first burn-in today, and as a Texan living in Ireland, I cannot wait to do a brisket.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

You can add directly to the basket, but don’t overload it or else the temperature can get out of control

[@ghostrider729]

Cheap construction, I gave away a charbroil stick burner , just because it was thin , I got me a kamado now!!! Not a ceramic $$ !! But I love it, I'm leaning towards a 560 too, not a big fan of pellets.. I like my charcoal!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Yeah it’s definitely not the best built, but it’s a cool concept to go along with my 560.. and I wanted another vertical too. I like pellets and charcoal both.

[@trtdude82]

Hi there, I’m trying to preseason my smoker but when I set the temp to 275 my smoker turns off. Any reason why? Thank you.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

After how long does it turn off? Also what temp does it get up to?

[@trtdude82]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow not even for a sec. I’ll set the temp and electronics shut off completely. I’m going to have take another look later today as it got too late. Thanks

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Makes me wonder if there is some sort of short.... that when it tells the fan to turn on that it shuts off. Have you verified the wiring and make sure that the connections are secure?

[@jacobhorpinjuk4241]

Mine does the same thing. I just bought it. Tried to season it. Turns on, set temp. Shuts down immediately.

[@trtdude82]

@@jacobhorpinjuk4241 hey there!! I figured out why this happens. You got to switch the connectors underneath the electronics. The instructions tells you to connect them wrong. I found this on Pioneer Smoke Houses channel. I put his link below. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qGitgnyLf8mBars

[@thetangierc]

Hmmm. I was excited about this, but am admittedly concerned about the single wall and oddly there's no vents of any kind and no sealing. Why is that? I was thinking about getting rid of my Broil King Vertical Charcoal smoker for this. It's steal appealing, but have to rethink this.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Tangier Clarke there is one small vent on the back about the size of your pinky finger. Yeah... I’m not a big fan of the construction of this, but it cooks good food.

[@thetangierc]

Anderson, what are you thoughts about no vents and seals? I have an MB 1050 and this BK (broilkingbbq.com/grills/smoke_vertical_charcoal_smoker/) which I was thinking of changing out for the one in this review. If you didn't have the controller, do you feel confident running this manually?

[@tanyatyska8]

Thank you, very much! This was incredibly helpful.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Glad you like it!

[@gbell8112]

Good detailed review 👍🏼

[@markdove763]

What is the voltage and amp on the power supply Thx Mark

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I’ll have to look

[@allenpoole6352]

Every time I set my temperature to anything it kicks off have you had that issue before

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I have not, but every time I’ve seen it it’s been a wiring issue

[@kevinperot]

So would you say this is a better smoker than the gravity series? I was thinking of getting a 1050, but really want it as a smoker more than a grill.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Kevin Perot I’m going to say no, for the fact that the build quality is significantly lower than any of the gravity series. I have the Gravity Series 560 and this 40in has noticeable quality differences. Now don’t get me wrong... I understand how these are priced and I can’t expect 10 gauge steel for $350, but I think they could’ve easily made this a double wall for the same price or maybe $400.

[@kevinperot]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow Yeah I was disappointed in the build quality from watching your review. Just didn’t know if the smoke flavor was better with this smoker since it’s designed specifically for smoking, compared to the gravity series.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

There’s a little difference but it’s not that noticeable. I’ve gotten some great results with my 560 and I literally (minutes ago) was told that they are updating the 560 and 1050 for 2021

[@kevinperot]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow yeah I actually bought a 1050 from a local retail store that had it on sale. I returned it when I found out about the updates. I’d rather wait for that even if it meant losing the sale price. However I’m optimistic that I’ll find it on sale, again.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

@@kevinperot I would've done the same thing

[@johnmckinney3493]

Can someone explain to me how to maintain the temperature? My brother and I have been trying, but we can’t get it for some reason! We have it set for 250, and it’s going over 300! We’re wondering if the fan isn’t working properly

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Do you have the partition in? Are you letting the fire get too big before closing the doors?

[@pioneersmokehouseschannel]

I love my masterbuilt vertical charcoal. it is great for modifications

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

The food was great, I just wish they would’ve made it more similar to the gravity series.

[@chrisbarber1020]

We were at lowes the other day they had this on clearance for 150 bucks what’s your opinion I can’t find any videos you cooked with this

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I have one cook video on this one. It didn’t stick around here very long… I sold it pretty quick. I wasn’t happy with the quality

[@chrisbarber1020]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow no I could tell in the store it was pretty flimsy

[@danway9042]

What kind of gasket should I get for the cook door?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I used the Oklahoma Joe gasket

[@yaaarightt4127]

Does the gravity series plug fit in this smoker ?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Unfortunately I don’t have the vertical any longer to try….

[@yaaarightt4127]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow dang ! I picked one up from lows for 200$ because it was missing the cord

[@tmshort2836]

Andrew I bought this on Friday and we can’t get the fan to turn on, this was pre assembled by the store. The control turns on and I have been able to connect my phone but it shuts off within a minute. It wouldn’t go above 180. I have reached out to their customer service but got an email back they would get with me in a week or so. Any thoughts before I give up on this and take it back to Lowe’s ?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Make sure the wiring is correct. Most issues I have seen like this were all wiring related

[@moneycntbuyskill4095]

I have a question guys for the initial first burn do I have to light the coals or can I just turn the machine on with nothing in it?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

You’ll have to light the coals

[@kenrachels1021]

Hey Anderson I'm back again with a comment. I plan on smoking a brisket Saturday on my Masterbuilt Charcoal Smoker. I normally smoke briskets on my off-set between 250 and 275. I want to do the same on the Maserbuilt but WITHOUT the partition. I don't see a problem doing it this way. What do you think? Appreciate your input. Thanks, Ken

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I think you’ll be ok. It’s 275F and above that you need to remove the partition.

[@toosas]

I'm really tossing between masterbuilt vertical electric smoker and this. I come from a kamado, so charcoal is what I use. Is it gonna be duplicating my kamado a bit? I wanted a set up and forget system and electric kind of made sense first, but this is not that much more! Help!

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I’d spend the extra and get the gravity series over this. The build quality is much better

[@ghostrider729]

Cook bro!! I just subscribed, don't let me down!!👍👍

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks Curtis I really appreciate it!

[@iNsAnExCABLEGUY]

Have you tried lump charcoal like mesquite? How long does the bag of charcoal last for in a cook day? Its been awhile since you posted this video how are you liking it?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

I didn’t keep this smoker very long as it didn’t live up to my expectations.

[@mrraysax1121]

I just got my Masterbuilt 40 digital charcoal smoker and have a question. I was smoking a pork butt at 250 and the partition in the charcoal basket and filled the basket up. After about 5 hours my temp started to tank. What to do you do if that happens? I put more charcoal in and relit it and man the temp flew up to 340. Just trying to learn it before throwing a brisket on it. lol.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

When you saw the temperature starting to drop, was the fire just about completely out?

[@mrraysax1121]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow not really. The temp dropped from 250 to about 215 when I saw it. I opened the door to the charcoal and there was a really nice red glow on the coals that were there.

[@ianmacdougall7385]

Hey Anderson, I just tried out my Masterbuilt this weekend and I found that it leaks a lot of smoke even after tightening the latches. What do you recommend to insulate the doors better?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

This is the gasket that I used: amzn.to/33MVNr9

[@rubengonzalez3528]

Can anyone explain but if you use brickets isn’t it like your cooking with dirty smoke ?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Nah, it’s mostly about the fuel to air ratio. It’s not quite the same hardwood though.

[@lukeknight2343]

I’m having trouble, I have everything installed ready to do my burn in. I tried a little test run to see if the fan would go on and just immediately shuts down. No error 1 like someone mentioned earlier (actually did happen when I first started it but went away) just shuts off. Is there any chance that I have to have my charcoal going before it wants to turn the fan on,? I would hate to try it tomorrow with the charcoal burning and the same thing happen

[@elliotburkett1683]

I just got one also. Im pretty sure it has a feature where it shuts down automatically when you run out of charcoal. I loaded mine up with coal, lit it, let it rest then shut BOTH doors and set the temperature. The fans kicked in instantly. Hope this helps!

[@lukeknight2343]

@@elliotburkett1683 thanks but I tried it with burning charcoal and still didn’t work ended up having to return it

[@elliotburkett1683]

@@lukeknight2343 sorry to hear that! Hope you find the perfect smoker!

[@lukeknight2343]

@@elliotburkett1683 thanks for taking the time to try helping though!

[@elliotburkett1683]

@@lukeknight2343 for sure!

[@karensmith7265]

I purchased this 1320 unit and tried to do the burning process but the fan would not come on. Would you have a solution for this?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

It’s typically a wiring issue. Make sure the wiring is correct and secure

[@karensmith7265]

The instructions didn’t give good instructions especially for the wiring. Can you tell me what wire goes where. They all have the same colors. So frustrating

[@karensmith7265]

Also the bottom door has a issue as well. If I latch it all the way close it shuts the unit off.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Definitely sounds like wiring to me… I’ll try and take a look at mine when I’m home.

[@karensmith7265]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow thank you so much! I really appreciate it. I tried calling Masterbuilt but no luck plus they sent me a message starting that they would back to me in 5-7 days. I really appreciate your time

[@lee-e1767]

Great review

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Thanks!

[@lee-e1767]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow that warping when using the door clamp and no seal is a deal breaker for me, good detail bud. Also the tripping on the wire detail.

[@timvansimaeys3452]

Hey Anderson, from a fellow Ohioan here...have you used this in the winter temps here yet? If so, how did it perform? Going between this and the gravity fed and want to make sure that it performs in the winter.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Hey Tim thanks for reaching out. I honestly haven’t cooked with this in the cold because I know that it wouldn’t be efficient at all... the single wall construction is not going to provide any insulation from the elements. So In my opinion I’d go with the gravity series over this one. I cooked on my gravity series in 20F and it performed just fine!

[@FzRune15]

Have you had issues with the controller? I just got one and as I was running my burn in peocess the controller either shut off on me or freeze (wouldnt change display, buttons wouldn't work). Any thoughts?

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Is it working at all? Like is the fan running on once you set your temperature?

[@FzRune15]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow so obviously when it shuts off no... but when i get the freeze like state it seems like it but then on the app it shows that the smoker is off and if i trt to press any of the buttons nothing happens no beep like normal. Only way to reset it is unplugging it.

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

@@FzRune15 hmm most issues that I’ve seen has been relayed to wiring, but your case doesn’t sound like the others. I’d contact masterbuilt as they will probably need to send you a new controller

[@FzRune15]

@@AndersonsSmokeShow yea it seems odd. I opened up a case last night see what they say. I've been searching online to see if this was common but havent found too much troubleshooting issues I should record it

[@AndersonsSmokeShow]

Yeah I think going to them is the best move at this point