What To Know
- The Char-Griller 980 comes with a variety of cooking features, including a reversible cooking grate with both solid and grate sides, a side firebox for indirect grilling, and a warming rack.
- The Masterbuilt 1050 also offers a wide range of features, such as a porcelain-coated cooking grate, a built-in thermometer, and a side burner for preparing sauces or sides.
- If you prefer the traditional smoky flavor of charcoal and are willing to put in a little more effort in setup and maintenance, the Char-Griller 980 is a great option.
When it comes to backyard grilling, two names stand out: Char-Griller and Masterbuilt. The Char-Griller 980 and the Masterbuilt 1050 are two of their most popular models, each offering unique features and capabilities. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two grills to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Design and Construction
The Char-Griller 980 features a sturdy steel construction with a powder-coated finish for durability. It has a large cooking chamber with 980 square inches of total cooking space, making it ideal for grilling large gatherings. The Masterbuilt 1050, on the other hand, is made of stainless steel and has a sleek, modern design. It offers a slightly smaller cooking area of 800 square inches but is still spacious enough for most grilling needs.
Fuel Type
The Char-Griller 980 is a charcoal grill, while the Masterbuilt 1050 is a propane grill. Charcoal grills offer a more traditional grilling experience with the smoky flavor that many enthusiasts prefer. However, they require more setup and maintenance than propane grills. Propane grills, on the other hand, are more convenient and easier to use, but they may not provide the same level of flavor as charcoal grills.
Temperature Control
Both the Char-Griller 980 and the Masterbuilt 1050 offer good temperature control. The Char-Griller 980 uses a two-zone cooking system with adjustable dampers to control the heat in different areas of the grill. The Masterbuilt 1050 has a three-burner system with individual controls, giving you even more precise temperature management.
Cooking Features
The Char-Griller 980 comes with a variety of cooking features, including a reversible cooking grate with both solid and grate sides, a side firebox for indirect grilling, and a warming rack. The Masterbuilt 1050 also offers a wide range of features, such as a porcelain-coated cooking grate, a built-in thermometer, and a side burner for preparing sauces or sides.
Accessories
Both the Char-Griller 980 and the Masterbuilt 1050 have a wide range of accessories available to enhance your grilling experience. These include covers, grill tools, and specialized cooking surfaces.
Price
The Char-Griller 980 is typically priced lower than the Masterbuilt 1050. However, the price may vary depending on the retailer and any additional features or accessories included.
Which Grill is Right for You?
The choice between the Char-Griller 980 and the Masterbuilt 1050 ultimately depends on your individual preferences and grilling needs. If you prefer the traditional smoky flavor of charcoal and are willing to put in a little more effort in setup and maintenance, the Char-Griller 980 is a great option. If you want a more convenient and user-friendly grill with precise temperature control and a wide range of features, the Masterbuilt 1050 is a solid choice.
The Verdict: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Char-Griller 980 | Masterbuilt 1050 |
| — | — | — |
| Construction | Steel, powder-coated | Stainless steel |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal | Propane |
| Cooking Space | 980 square inches | 800 square inches |
| Temperature Control | Two-zone system with adjustable dampers | Three-burner system with individual controls |
| Cooking Features | Reversible cooking grate, side firebox, warming rack | Porcelain-coated cooking grate, built-in thermometer, side burner |
| Accessories | Wide range available | Wide range available |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which grill is better for large gatherings?
The Char-Griller 980 has a larger cooking area, making it better suited for grilling large gatherings.
2. Which grill is easier to use?
The Masterbuilt 1050 is easier to use due to its propane fuel source and precise temperature control.
3. Which grill produces better flavor?
Charcoal grills typically produce a more smoky flavor than propane grills.
4. Which grill is more durable?
Both grills are made of durable materials, but the stainless steel construction of the Masterbuilt 1050 may give it a slight edge in terms of longevity.
5. Which grill has a better warranty?
The Char-Griller 980 comes with a 5-year warranty, while the Masterbuilt 1050 has a 2-year warranty.
