I have a Char Griller 980 and it has been fine. I did have a probe go out right at Christmas (very bad timing) but it turned out a very easy fix. As far as cooking goes the gravity feeds are a great idea. The food comes out really good.
There is some cheapness about it but the Masterbuilt doesn't look any better in that respect.
I did not use the crappy little power supply that came with it. I hooked up a 12-volt power supply with battery backup so it gets clean regulated power all the time. ( I can help with that for anyone needing a 12v power supply).
I went ahead and added the LSS mod fan extension as well. I figured I'd fix that before it starts...
I see a lot of complaints but some of these guys run them as hot as they can all the time so I don't know what they expect when doing that. I run mine at or under 450. I have used charcoal, wood chunks, and even small hickory logs.
I know that is not the Masterbuilt info but maybe it helps with something. LSS mods have a few items to "Hot Rod" the Mastbuilt as well...
I saw this Old Country BBQ Pits Insulated Gravity Fed Charcoal Smoker at Academy Sports and found it interesting. . I don't think it requires power at all but I'm not positive on that yet. It may require a little learning to maintain the temps but that should be easy enough...