Today, we’re diving deep into the Megamaster 820-0065C 1 Burner Propane Gas Tabletop Grill — a compact powerhouse that’s been gaining popularity among outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
This comprehensive review will cover everything you need to know: specifications, performance, build quality, value for money, comparison with competitors, and much more. By the end, you’ll know if this is the perfect portable grilling companion for your outdoor lifestyle.
Megamaster 820- 0065C: At a Glance
Before we dive into the details, let’s quickly review what the Megamaster 820- 0065C offers:
- Model Number: 820-0065C (also listed as MEMT1004 at some retailers)
- Type: 1-burner portable propane gas tabletop grill
- Cooking Power: 11,000 BTU stainless steel burner
- Cooking Area: 360 square inches (fits approximately 12 burgers)
- Ignition System: Push-button piezo electric ignitor
- Construction: Durable steel frame with porcelain-enameled firebox
- Portability Features: Folding legs and locking lid
- MSRP: $149.00 (Though frequently available at discounted prices)
Read more: Cuisinart Grillster Review
Design and Build Quality
Construction Materials
The Megamaster 820- 0065C boasts impressive build quality, especially considering its price point:
- Burner: Stainless steel for longevity and consistent performance
- Cooking Grates: Stainless steel for excellent heat retention and durability
- Firebox: Porcelain-enameled for superior heat retention and easier cleaning
- Exterior: Powder-coated steel for weather resistance
- Thermometer: Built into the lid for temperature monitoring
Portability Features
This grill truly shines in the portability department:
- Folding Legs: Tuck neatly under the grill for compact storage
- Locking Lid: Secures all components during transport
- Side Handles: Make carrying comfortable, even with gloves
- Compact Footprint: Takes up minimal space in your vehicle or storage area
- Lightweight Design: Heavy enough for stability, light enough for one person to carry
Performance and Cooking Experience
The 11,000 BTU stainless steel burner provides impressive heat output for this size. The ignition button lights first try. Gas flows evenly through the burner. Flames spread beneath the flame tamer. Heat reaches cooking temperature within minutes. Five minutes brings 300 degrees. Seven minutes delivers 350 degrees.
Food cooks evenly across the surface. The flame tamer eliminates cold spots. No food suffers from placement. Temperature control works through the lid. The built-in thermometer provides adequate readings. External thermometers confirm reasonable accuracy.
The single burner delivers sufficient heat. High settings bring strong searing capability. Low settings maintain gentle cooking temperatures. The range satisfies most outdoor cooking needs. Temperature adjusts with a single knob. Control feels intuitive after brief practice.
Cooking Capacity
Twelve burgers fit the cooking surface. Eight large patties leave comfortable spacing. A whole chicken roasts with room to spare. Four steaks cook without crowding. Vegetables find space alongside main dishes. Cooking for groups becomes entirely possible.
Heat distribution remains remarkably consistent. The center matches the edges in temperature. Food cooks with predictable timing. Flipping becomes less critical with evenness. Results satisfy even particular eaters. The cooking performance exceeds the price point.
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Fuel Considerations
It runs on small propane bottles. Each bottle lasts about two hours. Cooking multiple meals drains them quickly. An adapter fits standard propane tanks. This accessory costs fifteen dollars more. The investment pays off quickly. Large tanks last significantly longer. The adapter installs in five minutes. Regular propane tanks reduce operating costs.
The flame stays consistent during cooking. No sputtering interrupts the heat delivery. Fuel efficiency compares well to competitors. Economy matches more expensive grilling options. The regulator performs its job quietly. Gas flow remains predictable and safe.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Cleaning remains straightforward after grilling. The grease tray catches drippings well. Porcelain surfaces wipe down easily. The grate brushes clean while warm. Maintenance requires minimal special effort. Regular cleaning prevents any serious buildup.
The burner occasionally needs brief attention. Spider webs can block gas flow. The venturi tube needs occasional checking. These represent standard grill maintenance issues. The manual explains these tasks clearly. Pictures guide the maintenance procedures well.
The removable grease tray simplifies cleanup. It slides out without catching edges. Aluminum foil can line the tray. This makes disposal even simpler. Cleaning requires ten minutes after cooking. The time investment protects your purchase.
Megamaster 820- 0065C Accessories and Expansion Options
Official Accessories
- Propane tank adapter hose: This is perhaps the most popular accessory
- LED grill light: The Megamaster LED Grill Light (530- 0013P) can be attached for nighttime cooking
- Cast iron cookware: Megamaster’s 10-inch Cast Iron Square Skillet (630- 0010P) is compatible
Third-Party Accessories
- Grilling tool sets: Any standard BBQ tool set works well
- Thermometers: For those wanting more precise temperature readings than the built-in gauge provides
- Grill mats: Useful for cooking smaller or more delicate items
- Cleaning brushes: Standard grill brushes work perfectly with the stainless steel grates
Long-Term Durability
Weather resistance comes from quality materials. The powder coating prevents rust formation. Stainless components resist corrosion naturally. A cover extends the protection further. Many universal covers fit perfectly. Measurements should match twenty inches wide. Fifteen inches in height covers adequately. Sixteen inches in depth accommodates the depth.
Parts availability protects your investment. Megamaster sells all replacement components. The main lid costs twenty dollars. The cooking grid costs thirteen dollars. The burner costs just nine dollars. Even small parts remain available separately. Complete replacement remains unnecessary with repairs.
Warranty and Support
The manufacturer provides a one-year warranty. This covers manufacturing defects comprehensively. Customer service responds to inquiries promptly. The website offers downloadable manuals. Support emails receive same-day responses. Telephone support answers common questions quickly.
Registration extends some warranty protections. The process takes five minutes online. The confirmation arrives by email. The process requires minimal personal information. The benefit outweighs the small effort. Protection brings peace of mind.
Comparative Analysis: How Does It Stack Up?
Megamaster 820- 0065C vs. Napoleon TravelQ
| Feature | Megamaster | Napoleon TravelQ |
|---|---|---|
| BTU Output | 11,000 BTU single burner | Between 10,500 to 12,000 BTU, depending on the model |
| Construction Quality | Good quality; uses stainless steel and porcelain-coated components for durability and rust resistance | Premium materials, primarily cast aluminum construction, offering robust build and lightweight feel |
| Cooking Area | 360 square inches—larger cooking surface allowing for more food to be grilled at once | Ranges from 225 to 285 square inches, depending on the model; smaller cooking space, but well-designed |
| Portability | Folding design provides ease of transport; larger cooking footprint compared to size. | Folding design, noted for a sleeker profile, slightly more compact, and stylish for portability |
Megamaster 820- 0065C vs. Weber Traveler
| Feature | Megamaster | Weber Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Design Philosophy | Traditional tabletop design with folding legs | Cart-style design with large wheels and collapsible frame |
| Cooking Surface | 360 square inches | 320 square inches |
| Portability | Lighter and more compact when folded | More convenient transport with built-in wheels and a handle, but a larger footprint |
| Heat Distribution | Even cooking, 11,000 BTU single burner | Even cooking, 13,000 BTU single burner |
| Value Assessment | Offers similar cooking capacity at less than half the price | Premium design and easier transport at a premium price |
Megamaster 820- 0065C vs. Weber Tailgater
| Feature | Megamaster | Weber Q Series ("Tailgater") |
|---|---|---|
| Size and Form Factor | 360 square inches of cooking area | 189-280 square inches cooking area (varies by model) |
| Heat Output | 11,000 BTU from a single tubular burner | 8,500-12,000 BTU, depending on model |
| Construction Materials | Steel frame | Cast aluminum body |
| Cooking Performance | Good heat distribution and temperature control | Good heat distribution and temperature control |
| Value Consideration | More cooking area at a lower price | Premium price with strong brand reputation and proven longevity |
Real User Experiences: What Owners Are Saying
Common themes in positive reviews include:
- Value for money: Many users are impressed by the quality relative to the price
- Cooking performance: Even heating and good temperature control
- Portability: Ease of transport and storage
- Cooking capacity: Larger than expected cooking area
- Durability: Solid construction that holds up well to frequent use
The most common criticisms involve:
- Assembly time: Many users mention lengthy assembly
- Ignition issues: Some units require minor adjustments to the ignition system
- Limited temperature range: Some users note minimal difference between low and high settings
Pros and Cons:
| pros | cons |
|---|---|
Overall Rating: 4.6/5
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Who Should Buy the Megamaster 820- 0065C?
Based on its features, performance, and price point, the Megamaster 820- 0065C is ideal for:
- Campers and RV enthusiasts seeking a reliable cooking solution
- Tailgaters who need a portable yet capable grill
- Apartment dwellers with limited outdoor space
- Budget-conscious grillers who don’t want to compromise on cooking capacity
- Occasional outdoor cooks who don’t need premium features
- Those new to grilling who want a quality starter grill without a major investment
It may be less suitable for:
- Those seeking premium materials and construction, regardless of cost
- Grillers who need extremely precise temperature control
- Those who prioritize assembly convenience over value
Final Verdict
The Megamaster 820- 0065C delivers honest value. It cooks food well without fail. Construction quality exceeds its price point. Portability combines with serious cooking capacity. Heat distribution remains impressively consistent. Temperature control satisfies most cooking needs.
This grill will serve faithfully outdoors. The materials withstand regular use well. Cleaning requires minimal special effort. Parts availability ensures long service life. The warranty covers manufacturing defects adequately. Support responds to customer needs promptly.
FAQs
1. What type of fuel does the Megamaste 820- 0065C use?
The grill is designed to operate on liquid propane (LP) gas. It connects to a standard 20-pound propane tank via a hose and regulator, which are typically sold separately. The propane fuel allows for consistent heat output, making it ideal for outdoor grilling.
2. What is the size of the cooking surface?
The Megamaster 820- 0065C offers a spacious 360 square inches of cooking area. This provides ample room to grill multiple items such as burgers, steaks, vegetables, or hot dogs simultaneously, making it suitable for small family gatherings or tailgating.
3. What is the BTU (heat output) rating of this grill?
Equipped with a single tubular burner, this model produces approximately 11,000 BTUs of heat. This level of output is sufficient to evenly cook a variety of foods, maintaining stable temperatures and efficient cooking even in outdoor environments.
4. Is the Megamaster 820- 0065C portable?
Yes, portability is one of its key features. The grill includes foldable legs and a relatively lightweight steel frame, making it easy to carry and transport. It’s well-suited for tailgating parties, camping trips, picnics, and other outdoor activities.
5. What materials are used in the construction of this grill?
The main frame of the grill is constructed from durable steel, providing a sturdy base. Cooking grates and some components feature porcelain coating for rust resistance and easy cleaning, while stainless steel parts add durability and corrosion protection.
6. Can I adjust the heat output or temperature on this grill?
Yes, there is a single control knob that allows you to regulate the propane flow to the tubular burner, enabling precise temperature adjustments. This lets you manage heat levels from low to high depending on what you are cooking.
7. How easy is it to clean and maintain the Megamaster 820- 0065C?
The grill’s porcelain-coated cooking grates resist sticking and make cleanup much easier. After use, simply brush off food residue when the grates are still warm. The steel frame and other components can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Additionally, the grill features a removable grease tray to collect drippings, reducing flare-ups and simplifying maintenance.
8. Does the Megamaster 820- 0065C come with a warranty?
Generally, Megamaster products include a limited manufacturer’s warranty, which covers defects in materials or workmanship for a specific period after purchase. Warranty terms can vary, so it’s recommended to check the product documentation or the Megamaster website for details specific to the 820-0065C model.
9. Is assembly required, and how difficult is it?
Some assembly is required out of the box. This usually involves attaching the legs, burner assembly, and connecting the propane hose. The package includes detailed instructions and necessary hardware to make the process straightforward, typically taking 20-30 minutes for most users.
10. Can the Megamaster 820- 0065C be used indoors or in enclosed spaces?
No, it cannot be safely used indoors. Because it uses propane gas, proper ventilation is required to avoid dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide and other combustion byproducts. It’s intended strictly for outdoor use on stable, level surfaces away from flammable materials.
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