Texas Star Grill Shop • Yoder buying guide
Yoder YS480S vs. YS640S
Choose the cooking chamber first, then the cart. The YS640S gives you a wider cooking layout and a Variable Displacement Damper; the YS480S brings the same ACS control platform to a shorter standard-cart setup.
The decision that matters first
Will you use the extra cooking width?
Both models have a 20 lb hopper and ACS controls with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Start with the YS480S if its layout fits your normal cook. Choose the YS640S when several large foods or pans regularly need to share the cooking surface.
The competition cart is a separate choice about wheels, handling and the exact package. It does not turn a YS480S into a larger cooking chamber.
YS480S and YS640S on standard carts
These links are the Texas Star configurations with wire front and side shelves and an upper slide-out cooking shelf. The total area includes both cooking levels; it is not the main grate alone.
On a phone, swipe the table sideways to see all columns.
| Model | Advertised total cooking area | Nominal main cooking footprint | Hopper & controls | Key difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YS480S | 800 sq. in. | 20 × 24 in. | 20 lb; ACS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth; two food probes | Shorter cooking chamber; no Variable Displacement Damper |
| YS640S | 1,070 sq. in. | 20 × 32 in. | 20 lb; ACS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth; two food probes | Wider cooking chamber; Variable Displacement Damper |
Yoder’s advertised total areas and nominal grate dimensions are presented as published, not recomputed measurements. Both models list a 150–600°F operating range. Direct-grilling grate-temperature claims are a separate specification, not a 700°F controller setting.
Choose the chamber for your usual menu
The shorter standard-cart setup
YS480S
The 20 × 24-inch nominal main cooking footprint is the starting point for planning pans and larger cuts. The upper cooking shelf adds a second level when the food’s height allows it.
Choose it for: the ACS-controlled Yoder platform when its cooking layout covers your normal meal and the shorter overall setup is useful. The current standard model is listed at 53 inches long including the side shelf.
Explore YS480S →More side-by-side cooking room
YS640S
The nominal main cooking footprint grows to 20 × 32 inches. Its Variable Displacement Damper lets you adjust heat distribution within the cooking chamber according to Yoder’s operating instructions.
Choose it for: regularly cooking several large items or arranging mains and sides together. The current standard model is listed at 61.3 inches long including the side shelf.
Explore YS640S →Check height above the food, too.
An upper shelf is useful for another cooking level, but a tall roast or poultry can change the arrangement. Compare the main surface and shelf clearance using your own pans and typical menu. More advertised area does not mean every cut fits on every level.
Standard cart vs. competition cart
Choose a competition cart for its transport and handling features, not for a larger chamber or different ACS electronics. Yoder’s competition designs use flat-free tires and integrated tie-downs. These remain heavy cookers; wheels do not remove the need to plan gates, steps, slopes and delivery access.
On a phone, swipe the table sideways to see all columns.
| Configuration | Shelves | Wheels / storage | What stays the same |
|---|---|---|---|
| YS480S standard / YS640S standard | Wire front and side shelves | Standard cart; confirm the full assembled setup | Your selected 480 or 640 chamber and ACS controls |
| YS640S Competition • Black, 8-inch wheels | Stainless steel shelves | 8-inch wheels; no drawer listed | YS640S chamber and ACS controls |
| YS640S Competition • Black, 10-inch wheels & drawer | Stainless steel shelves | 10-inch wheels and storage drawer | YS640S chamber and ACS controls |
These are specific merchant configurations, not a claim that every competition cart has stainless shelves, 10-inch wheels or a drawer. Ask about other color and YS480S competition-cart configurations, and confirm the exact equipment on the current listing.
Finish the setup
Match the accessories and delivery plan.
- Direct grilling: both models support a direct-grilling setup. Follow the diffuser and grate instructions, and confirm the optional GrillGrate panels are included in your order if you want that setup.
- Covers and storage: choose by both chamber model and cart. Do not assume a standard-cart cover fits a competition-cart package.
- Placement: use the exact model and cart drawing, including shelves and lid clearance. Built-in models are separate products with their own installation requirements.
- Power and operation: plan outdoor electrical access and follow the full manual for safe placement, startup, grease management and shutdown.
A few questions before you choose
What is the main difference between YS480S and YS640S?
The YS640S gives you a wider cooking layout and a Variable Displacement Damper. Advertised total cooking area is 800 square inches for YS480S and 1,070 for YS640S. Both have a 20 lb hopper and ACS controls.
Does a competition cart cook better?
The chamber and electronics stay the same for that model. Choose the cart for handling, wheels and transport features, then compare the specific shelves and storage included in the listing.
Are stainless shelves, 10-inch wheels and a drawer always included?
No. The linked standard-cart models specify wire shelves. Texas Star’s competition-cart packages vary, so a stainless shelf package, wheel size and drawer must be checked on the exact listing you select.
Can either model sear?
Both support direct-grilling setups. Follow Yoder’s instructions for the diffuser and cooking grates, and confirm the required optional GrillGrate panels are part of your order. Do not assume those panels are included with the standard grill listing.
Is the YS640S too large for everyday cooking?
It can be used for everyday meals. The useful question is whether the extra width fits your normal menu and outdoor space. Compare food layout, the full cart dimensions and access rather than choosing only by the largest capacity number.
Sources & comparison notes
Specifications checked November 11, 2026. Standard-cart dimensions come from current Yoder model pages; exact merchant product pages define the linked shelf, wheel and drawer packages. Follow the complete manual and current drawings for your chosen configuration.
- Manufacturer model pages: YS480S and YS640S.
- Chamber and cooking information: Yoder pellet-grill FAQ and YS640S operating manual.
- Competition-cart platform: YS640S Competition. Merchant configurations can add different shelf, wheel and storage options.
- Current prices and availability are on the linked Texas Star Grill Shop product pages. This guide does not promise stock, assembly or delivery timing.