The Masterbuilt Gravity Series has changed the way backyard chefs grill and smoke food. With automatic temperature control, a GravityFed charcoal hopper, and digital technology, these grills offer the authentic flavor of charcoal while delivering the convenience usually associated with pellet or gas grills. Two of the most popular models in the Gravity lineup are the Masterbuilt Gravity 560 and the Masterbuilt Gravity 800.
If you’re comparing the Masterbuilt Gravity 560 vs 800 to determine which one is right for you, this detailed guide breaks down every factor: cooking performance, griddle capability, build quality, heat consistency, fuel efficiency, size, accessories, and long-term value. This 2000-word article is optimized for SEO, fully formatted in HTML, and designed for mobile-friendly reading.
Main Difference Between Masterbuilt Gravity 560 and 800
Cooking Area Capacity
The most significant difference between these two grills is the **total cooking space**.
The Gravity 560 offers **560 square inches** of cooking surface, ideal for small families and casual backyard cooking. It is compact enough for patios and limited outdoor areas but still spacious enough to smoke large cuts of meat.
The Gravity 800 provides a much larger **800 square inches** of cooking area. This expanded space allows you to cook multiple dishes at once, smoke larger cuts, or host parties without worrying about running out of room.
Griddle Functionality
Another major difference is that the Masterbuilt Gravity 800 features a **built-in flat-top griddle**, which the Gravity 560 does not include.
With the 800, you can griddle foods like eggs, hash browns, smash burgers, fajitas, and stir-fries—expanding your cooking possibilities beyond the traditional grill and smoker features.
The 560 is strictly a grill and smoker, making it more straightforward and a better choice if you want classic charcoal grilling without extra cooking surfaces.
Cooking Versatility
Both units excel at grilling and smoking, but the 800 goes beyond that.
The Gravity 560 allows you to sear, grill, smoke, roast, and bake.
The Gravity 800 does all of that **plus griddle cooking**, giving you more styles of outdoor cooking in one machine.
If you prefer having an all-in-one outdoor cooking station, the 800 offers more versatility.
Heat Performance & Speed
Both models use a powerful digital fan and the GravityFed charcoal hopper to reach cooking temperatures rapidly.
The Gravity 560 and 800 reach **225°F in just minutes**, ideal for smoking brisket, ribs, wings, or roasts.
They can also climb to **700°F**, making them excellent for high-heat searing.
However, the Gravity 560 tends to heat up slightly faster due to its smaller cooking chamber.
The Gravity 800, while extremely efficient, takes minimally longer to heat because of its larger size.
Size, Weight & Portability
The Gravity 560 is more compact and easier to move. If you have limited outdoor space or want a grill that feels less bulky, the 560 is more practical.
The Gravity 800 is larger and heavier, but its added weight contributes to better stability and durability.
Additionally, the 800 commonly includes a **front folding shelf**, which the 560 lacks. This extra workspace is incredibly useful for preparing, holding, or serving food right at the grill.
Fuel Efficiency
Both grills use the same charcoal hopper system, allowing them to burn charcoal efficiently and consistently.
On low-and-slow settings, both can run for hours on a single hopper load.
Because of its larger cooking space, the Gravity 800 may use slightly more fuel at high temperatures, but both perform exceptionally well in terms of charcoal efficiency.
Maintenance & Cleaning
The Gravity 560 is simpler to maintain because it lacks a flat-top surface. Just clean the grates, empty the ash pan, and wipe the interior.
The Gravity 800 requires all the same cleaning steps plus **griddle maintenance**, including seasoning and oiling the surface to prevent rust.
If you prefer less upkeep, the 560 may be better for you. If you love the idea of a multifunctional cooking unit, the 800’s extra maintenance is worth it.
Price Difference
The Gravity 800 is priced higher because of its larger size, griddle capabilities, front shelf, and added versatility.
The Gravity 560 is more budget-friendly while still offering outstanding grilling and smoking performance.
Your choice will ultimately depend on whether you value affordability or versatility.
Masterbuilt Gravity 560 vs 800 Comparison Table (Mobile-Friendly)
| Feature | Gravity 560 | Gravity 800 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Cooking Space | 560 sq. in. | 800 sq. in. |
| Griddle Capability | No | Yes (Flat-top griddle) |
| Temperature Range | 225°F – 700°F | 225°F – 700°F |
| Heat-Up Speed | Faster | Slightly slower due to size |
| Shelf Options | Basic | Front folding shelf |
| Weight & Portability | Lighter, easier to move | Heavier, more stable |
| Best For | Small families, beginners | Large families, versatile cooking |
- Reaches 225 F in 8 minutes, 450 F in 10 minutes, or 700 degrees Fahrenheit in 14 minutes
- Includes a flat top griddle insert and cast iron grill grates with 800 total square inches...
- DigitalFan minimizes heat fluctuations – maintains temperature
- Control temperature and cook time with the digital control panel or with smart device...
- Built-in temperature gauge and meat probe thermometer for perfect results every time
- Front folding shelf for the Gravity Series 560 Grill + Smoker
- Made of power-coated steel for easy cleaning and lasting durability
- Holds up to 50 pounds
- Fold down when not in use
Masterbuilt Gravity 560 – Full Breakdown
Performance Overview
The Gravity 560 is a powerful grill and smoker designed for those who want an efficient, digital charcoal system without taking up too much outdoor space. With its fast heat-up time, the 560 allows you to start grilling or smoking within minutes. Its ability to reach high temperatures makes it ideal for searing steaks or grilling burgers with excellent texture and flavor.
Cooking Features
The cooking grates provide a solid area for both direct and indirect cooking. You can also use the grill for smoking large cuts like brisket or pork shoulder thanks to the precise temperature control system.
Ease of Use
Users appreciate the 560 for its simple operation. The digital control panel paired with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth gives you remote access to temperature and timing settings. Beginners find the 560 easy to learn, making it one of the top entry-level digital charcoal grills.
Benefits of Gravity 560
– Compact build
– Affordable price
– Fast heating
– Easy to use
– Precise charcoal temperature control
– Ideal for everyday grilling
Masterbuilt Gravity 800 – Full Breakdown
Performance Overview
The Gravity 800 is built for those who want maximum versatility. With its griddle insert, extra cooking area, and front shelf, the 800 becomes an all-in-one outdoor kitchen. Its larger interior offers more space for bigger meals, making it the perfect choice for hosting gatherings.
Griddle Cooking Advantage
The flat-top griddle adds immense value. You can cook delicate foods or large batches that are impossible on standard grates. From breakfast to dinner, the griddle surface expands what you can create outdoors.
Convenience Features
The folding front shelf is a standout feature for food prep and organization. The larger construction also feels sturdier, offering better stability during long cooking sessions.
Benefits of Gravity 800
– Large cooking area
– Built-in griddle capability
– Heavy-duty construction
– More workspace
– Highly versatile
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Gravity 560 If:
– You want affordability
– You prefer compact grills
– You don’t need a griddle
– You want fast heat-up times
Choose Gravity 800 If:
– You want maximum flexibility
– You frequently host large gatherings
– You want the griddle feature
– You prefer a larger cooking surface
Final Verdict
The Right Pick for Your Needs
The Masterbuilt Gravity 560 and 800 are both exceptional choices with outstanding cooking performance and convenience.
The **Masterbuilt Gravity 560** is perfect for people who want compact, fast, powerful grilling and smoking without extra features.
The **Masterbuilt Gravity 800** is ideal for cooks who want versatility, more space, and the griddle option for expanded cooking styles.
Both grills deliver superior charcoal flavor with modern technology, ensuring that whichever model you choose will elevate your outdoor cooking experience.
