Updated Review of the Inkbird IBBQ-4T: Once Reliable, Now Frustrating
I initially loved my Inkbird IBBQ-4T. When I first started using it, the Wi-Fi connection was consistent, and it worked exactly as advertised. However, since the latest firmware update, the device has become unreliable, with constant Wi-Fi dropouts that make it frustrating to use during long cooks. Pros: 1. Accurate Temperature Monitoring: The probes still provide accurate readings when the device stays connected. 2. Good Build Quality: The compact, sturdy design is appealing and feels durable. 3. Multi-Probe Capability: Having four probes is a great feature, particularly for smoking multiple cuts of meat. Cons (Post-Update): 1. Unstable Wi-Fi Connection: • After the recent update, the Wi-Fi connection has become incredibly inconsistent. Even in close range to a strong router, the device now disconnects frequently, which was never an issue before. • Reconnecting is tedious, often requiring multiple attempts to get the app and device synced again. 2. Clunky User Interface: • The app’s design makes it difficult to access critical information quickly. Features like “time to cook” estimates are non existent or key smoking parameters (e.g., cooking temp ranges) are buried deep in submenus. • For a product tailored to BBQ enthusiasts, the interface feels unnecessarily complicated. Streamlining these features into the main dashboard would significantly improve usability. 3. Notifications are Unreliable: With the constant Wi-Fi dropouts, the app fails to send timely notifications, which can cause major issues during slow-cooked BBQ sessions. Suggestions for Improvement: • Fix the Wi-Fi stability issues introduced in the latest update. • Overhaul the app’s UI to prioritise key features for smoking meats. Information like cooking temperature parameters, estimated cook times, and alarms should be more accessible, not hidden behind multiple menus. Final Thoughts: The Inkbird IBBQ-4T had a strong start, but its recent performance has been disappointing. A product like this needs to prioritise reliability, especially during long, low-and-slow smoking sessions. Until these connectivity and app usability issues are resolved, I find myself questioning its value. Hopefully, Inkbird addresses these concerns in a future update, as the hardware itself has great potential. Rating: 2.5/5 – Great hardware, but software issues are dragging it down.
