Since cooking space is important, one thing to consider is the actual useable cooking space (in cubic inches) and not just the advertised surface cook area.
The MAK 1 Star's seemingly smaller size is deceptively roomy, for example.
Initially the Rec-Tec has 680 Sq. In. of surface cook are, HOWEVER... when you take into account the round barrel style cook chamber, at it's highest point, the center (from front to back) has about 9 1/4" of head room. Taller food will start bumping into the lid when you push it to the back or front. As far as I know they do not offer a second tier rack.
The MAK has 380 Sq. In. initial surface area, BUT is has a lot of head room (9 1/4 in at the lowest point and 12+ in. at the highest), and because it has straight-sided walls, when you add the MAK upper rack you end up with 760 sq. inches of useable surface cook area. I hope this makes sense.
I know, for example, with the upper rack, the MAK 1 Star will hold 8 pork butts or 4 whole shoulders at one time.
BUT make no mistake, you will pay more for the MAK.
Again, not trying to knock Rec-Tec. They have a lot of good going for their grills, and their warranty is great! Just trying to give a true head to head comparison and accurate info. I hope this helps.
Cliff
