You are currently viewing Best Weber Grill For Any Budget

Best Weber Grill For Any Budget

  • Post author:
Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links on this website may be affiliate links, meaning that I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase the item. This helps to support my website and keep my content free for everyone.

Looking for the best Weber Grill? You are not alone! In this mouthwatering post, we’ll explore the best Weber grills on the market, delving into their standout features, key specifications, and what makes each model a must-have for grilling aficionados.

Whether you’re in the market for a new grill or just looking to fuel your passion for outdoor cooking, our comprehensive guide will help you navigate the sizzling world of Weber grills.

So, fire up your appetite and join us on this tantalizing journey to grilling nirvana!

Product Image Product Name / Price Description / Primary Button
Our Pick
  • Description:
    • Holds up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press; Built-in lid thermometer. Rust-resistant aluminum dampers
    • One-Touch cleaning system with high-capacity ash catcher provides hassle-free ash cleanup
    • Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat, and won’t rust or peel
Best Setup
  • Description:
    • Electronic Touch-N-Go with Propane Gas powered ignition system (propane tank not included)
    • Dimensions - Lid Closed: 43.5"H x 48"W x 30"D | Weight: 91 lbs
    • 22-inch diameter porcelain-enameled bowl and lid with a cooking area of 363 square inch
    • Aluminized steel One-Touch cleaning system with removable, high-capacity, aluminum ash catcher
    • Removable LCD cook timer and built-in lid thermometer
    • 3D interactive assembly instructions for this product are available through the free BILT app.


Best Weber Smoker - BY FAR
  • Description:
    • The Weber Smokey Mountain charcoal smoker helps you achieve an authentic smokehouse flavor at home
    • It can accommodate a whole turkey and an entire ham at the same time. Item weight- 39.1 pounds
    • Made of porcelain-enameled steel, this smoker comes with 2 nickel-plated 18-1/2-inch-wide cooking grates
    • Includes a water pan, thermometer, individual vents on bowl and lid, and heat-resistant nylon handle


Our Pick
$219.00
Description:
  • Holds up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press; Built-in lid thermometer. Rust-resistant aluminum dampers
  • One-Touch cleaning system with high-capacity ash catcher provides hassle-free ash cleanup
  • Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat, and won’t rust or peel
Best Setup
$549.00
Description:
  • Electronic Touch-N-Go with Propane Gas powered ignition system (propane tank not included)
  • Dimensions - Lid Closed: 43.5"H x 48"W x 30"D | Weight: 91 lbs
  • 22-inch diameter porcelain-enameled bowl and lid with a cooking area of 363 square inch
  • Aluminized steel One-Touch cleaning system with removable, high-capacity, aluminum ash catcher
  • Removable LCD cook timer and built-in lid thermometer
  • 3D interactive assembly instructions for this product are available through the free BILT app.


Best Weber Smoker - BY FAR
$329.99
Description:
  • The Weber Smokey Mountain charcoal smoker helps you achieve an authentic smokehouse flavor at home
  • It can accommodate a whole turkey and an entire ham at the same time. Item weight- 39.1 pounds
  • Made of porcelain-enameled steel, this smoker comes with 2 nickel-plated 18-1/2-inch-wide cooking grates
  • Includes a water pan, thermometer, individual vents on bowl and lid, and heat-resistant nylon handle


02/19/2024 03:15 am GMT

Brief history of Weber grills

Nothing says summer like firing up a Weber grill and feasting on perfectly seared steaks and juicy, tender burgers.

But have you ever wondered how this iconic brand became synonymous with grilling excellence? Let’s take a brief trip down memory lane to explore the origins of Weber grills.

In 1952, George Stephen Sr., a welder at Weber Brothers Metal Works in Chicago, was frustrated with the uneven and inconsistent cooking results of open brazier grills.

He envisioned a grill that would keep heat and smoke inside while maintaining a consistent temperature, making it easy to control the cooking process.

His innovative solution? The first Weber kettle grill, fashioned from two halves of a buoy.

Little did George know, his invention would transform outdoor cooking forever, setting the stage for Weber to become the go-to brand for grill enthusiasts worldwide.

Why Weber grills are popular

Weber grills have won the hearts and appetites of backyard chefs for a myriad of reasons. For starters, Weber grills are known for their durability and craftsmanship.

The high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail ensure that these grills can withstand the test of time, providing countless seasons of grilling bliss.

Another reason for Weber’s popularity is their exceptional performance. With even heat distribution, precise temperature control, and superior heat retention, Weber grills make it easy to achieve grilling perfection.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grilling maestro, you can expect consistently delicious results from your Weber grill.

Types of Weber Grills

Charcoal Grills

Features and Benefits

There’s something undeniably satisfying about grilling over charcoal. The crackle of the fire, the smoky aroma, and the primal connection to the cooking process are hard to resist. Weber charcoal grills offer:

  • Authentic smoky flavor: The magic of charcoal imparts a deep, smoky taste that’s hard to replicate with gas or electric grills.
  • High heat potential: Charcoal grills can reach scorching temperatures, perfect for searing steaks and achieving beautiful grill marks.
  • Portability: Many Weber charcoal grills are designed for easy transport, making them ideal for camping trips or beachside cookouts.
  • Budget-friendly options: Charcoal grills are generally more affordable than their gas and electric counterparts.

Best Weber Charcoal Grills

Product Image Product Name / Price Description / Primary Button
Our Pick
  • Description:
    • Holds up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press; Built-in lid thermometer. Rust-resistant aluminum dampers
    • One-Touch cleaning system with high-capacity ash catcher provides hassle-free ash cleanup
    • Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat, and won’t rust or peel
Best Setup
  • Description:
    • Electronic Touch-N-Go with Propane Gas powered ignition system (propane tank not included)
    • Dimensions - Lid Closed: 43.5"H x 48"W x 30"D | Weight: 91 lbs
    • 22-inch diameter porcelain-enameled bowl and lid with a cooking area of 363 square inch
    • Aluminized steel One-Touch cleaning system with removable, high-capacity, aluminum ash catcher
    • Removable LCD cook timer and built-in lid thermometer
    • 3D interactive assembly instructions for this product are available through the free BILT app.


Best Weber Smoker - BY FAR
  • Description:
    • The Weber Smokey Mountain charcoal smoker helps you achieve an authentic smokehouse flavor at home
    • It can accommodate a whole turkey and an entire ham at the same time. Item weight- 39.1 pounds
    • Made of porcelain-enameled steel, this smoker comes with 2 nickel-plated 18-1/2-inch-wide cooking grates
    • Includes a water pan, thermometer, individual vents on bowl and lid, and heat-resistant nylon handle


Our Pick
$219.00
Description:
  • Holds up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press; Built-in lid thermometer. Rust-resistant aluminum dampers
  • One-Touch cleaning system with high-capacity ash catcher provides hassle-free ash cleanup
  • Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat, and won’t rust or peel
Best Setup
$549.00
Description:
  • Electronic Touch-N-Go with Propane Gas powered ignition system (propane tank not included)
  • Dimensions - Lid Closed: 43.5"H x 48"W x 30"D | Weight: 91 lbs
  • 22-inch diameter porcelain-enameled bowl and lid with a cooking area of 363 square inch
  • Aluminized steel One-Touch cleaning system with removable, high-capacity, aluminum ash catcher
  • Removable LCD cook timer and built-in lid thermometer
  • 3D interactive assembly instructions for this product are available through the free BILT app.


Best Weber Smoker - BY FAR
$329.99
Description:
  • The Weber Smokey Mountain charcoal smoker helps you achieve an authentic smokehouse flavor at home
  • It can accommodate a whole turkey and an entire ham at the same time. Item weight- 39.1 pounds
  • Made of porcelain-enameled steel, this smoker comes with 2 nickel-plated 18-1/2-inch-wide cooking grates
  • Includes a water pan, thermometer, individual vents on bowl and lid, and heat-resistant nylon handle


02/19/2024 03:15 am GMT
  • Weber Original Kettle Premium 22”: The iconic grill that started it all, this classic kettle-style grill is perfect for the charcoal purist.
  • Weber Performer Deluxe: Combining the convenience of a work surface with the beloved kettle design, this grill caters to those looking for added functionality.
  • Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker: For low-and-slow barbecue enthusiasts, this dedicated smoker delivers tender, smoky perfection.

Gas Grills

Features and Benefits

Weber gas grills offer the ultimate convenience for those who want to get grilling with minimal fuss. Key features and benefits include:

  • Quick start-up: With the push of a button or the turn of a knob, gas grills heat up quickly and maintain consistent temperatures.
  • Precise temperature control: Easily adjust the heat for different cooking techniques, from searing to slow-roasting.
  • Low maintenance: Gas grills require less cleaning and upkeep compared to charcoal grills.
  • Variety of sizes and styles: From compact models to professional-grade grills, Weber gas grills cater to a wide range of needs.

Best Weber Gas Grills

  • Weber Spirit II E-310: This three-burner gas grill is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, mid-size grill with plenty of cooking space.
  • Weber Genesis II E-335: A top-of-the-line model, this grill offers a sear station, side burner, and exceptional performance.
  • Weber Q3200: A compact and portable option, perfect for small patios or balconies.

Electric Grills

Features and Benefits

For those with limited outdoor space or strict fire regulations, Weber electric grills provide an alternative way to enjoy grilled delicacies. Key advantages include:

  • No fuel required: Just plug in the grill and start cooking—no need for propane tanks or charcoal.
  • Indoor/outdoor versatility: Many electric grills are designed for both indoor and outdoor use, making them a flexible option.
  • Smokeless operation: Electric grills produce minimal smoke, making them ideal for apartment dwellers or those with sensitive neighbors.
  • Precise temperature control: Like gas grills, electric models offer the ability to control cooking temperatures with ease.

Best Weber Electric Grills

  • Weber Q1400: This compact, portable electric grill is perfect for small spaces and offers reliable performance.
  • Weber Pulse 2000: With two independently controlled heating elements and a digital temperature display, this grill caters to those seeking advanced features and precision.
best-weber-gas-grills

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Weber Grill

Size and Cooking Area

The size and cooking area of your grill are crucial factors to consider when selecting the perfect Weber grill.

Keep in mind the number of people you typically cook for and the type of food you like to grill.

Weber grills offer various sizes, from compact models suitable for small families to large grills with ample cooking space for parties and gatherings.

Materials and Durability

Weber grills are known for their durability and high-quality construction. When selecting your grill, pay close attention to the materials used in its construction. Look for:

  • Porcelain-enameled cast iron or stainless steel cooking grates: These materials ensure even heat distribution and excellent heat retention, resulting in perfectly cooked food.
  • Heavy-duty framework: A sturdy frame provides stability and longevity.
  • Rust-resistant materials: To protect your grill from the elements and extend its lifespan, choose a model with rust-resistant materials such as stainless steel or aluminum.

Heat Distribution and Control

One of the key factors that sets Weber grills apart from the competition is their superior heat distribution and control. When choosing a grill, consider:

  • Burner configuration (for gas grills): Burners should be positioned to provide even heat across the entire cooking surface.
  • Adjustable dampers (for charcoal grills): Dampers allow you to control the airflow and temperature within your grill, ensuring consistent cooking results.
  • Temperature gauges: Accurate temperature gauges are essential for monitoring the heat inside your grill, helping you achieve perfect cooking results every time.

Additional Features

Consider what additional features are important to you when selecting a Weber grill:

  • Side tables: These provide a convenient workspace for prepping and serving food.
  • Side burners: Available on some gas grill models, side burners allow you to cook side dishes or sauces without needing a separate stove.
  • Sear stations: Some Weber grills offer dedicated sear stations for high-heat cooking, perfect for achieving restaurant-quality sear marks.
  • Storage: Extra storage, such as built-in cabinets or shelves, can be a valuable addition for keeping your grilling tools and accessories organized.

Budget

Weber grills are available at various price points to suit different budgets. While it’s essential to consider the initial cost of the grill, also take into account the long-term value provided by a high-quality, durable grill.

Investing in a well-built Weber grill can save you money in the long run, as it will likely last longer and require less maintenance than cheaper alternatives.

Keep in mind that some additional features may increase the cost, so weigh their importance against your budget when making your decision.

Best Weber Grills for Different Needs

Best Weber Grill for Beginners

For those new to grilling or looking for a user-friendly option, the Weber Spirit II E-210 is an excellent choice.

This two-burner gas grill offers a compact size, easy-to-use controls, and a reliable cooking performance, making it perfect for beginners.

Best Weber Grill for Small Spaces

If you have limited space but still want to enjoy outdoor cooking, the Weber Q1200 is the ideal grill for you.

This portable gas grill is compact and lightweight, with foldable side tables, making it perfect for small patios, balconies, or even on-the-go grilling.

Best Weber Grill for Large Gatherings

For those who love hosting large gatherings, the Weber Summit S-670 is the ultimate grilling machine.

With six primary burners, a side burner, a sear station, and a rotisserie burner, this gas grill provides ample cooking space and versatility to cater to a crowd.

Best Weber Grill for Smoking

The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is the top choice for smoking enthusiasts. This dedicated charcoal smoker is designed for low-and-slow cooking, allowing you to achieve tender, smoky perfection with meats, poultry, and fish.

Best Weber Grill for Portability

For grillers who love to take their cooking on the road, the Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill is the perfect companion.

This compact, lightweight charcoal grill features a space-saving design and convenient carrying handles, making it ideal for tailgating, camping, or beach cookouts.

Tips for Maintaining Your Weber Grill

Cleaning and Maintenance

Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for keeping your Weber grill in top condition.

Regularly clean the cooking grates and interior with a grill brush or scraper, and wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth.

For deep cleaning, disassemble your grill and clean the individual parts with warm, soapy water.

Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning recommendations for your model.

Storing Your Weber Grill

Proper storage is crucial for protecting your Weber grill from the elements and prolonging its lifespan.

Store your grill in a dry, covered area, such as a garage or shed. If you’re storing your grill outside, invest in a high-quality grill cover to protect it from rain, wind, and other elements.

Replacing Parts and Accessories

Over time, parts and accessories on your Weber grill may need to be replaced.

Always use genuine Weber replacement parts to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.

Some common replacement parts include cooking grates, burners, and igniters.

Additionally, consider upgrading your grill with new accessories, such as a rotisserie attachment or smoker box, to enhance your grilling experience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues on Weber Grills

If you experience issues with your Weber grill, consult the manufacturer’s troubleshooting guide or contact customer support for assistance.

Some common issues include difficulty lighting the grill, uneven heat distribution, and flare-ups.

Many problems can be easily resolved with basic maintenance and cleaning, so be sure to perform regular checks on your grill.

Are Weber Grills Worth The Money?

In short, Yes! When it comes to outdoor cooking, there’s perhaps no better brand than Weber.

Weber grills are known for their quality, excellent heat retention, and durability, but they also come with a pretty hefty price tag. 

So it’s natural to wonder  “are Weber grills worth the money?” 

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of Weber grills to help you decide if one is right for you.

Before we go on, just a quick note, I will NOT be comparing Webers Grills to a Blackstone Griddle. If you are looking for that, check this article out here, it has some really helpful info!

Webers Have Excellent Heat Retention

This is a fact that needs focussing on in much greater depth. If you’re looking for a grill (gas, charcoal, or electric, it doesn’t matter) that has excellent heat retention, then Weber is one of the best manufacturers on the market for this.

Heat retention is really important when cooking on grills because you need to be sure that the food you’re cooking is, well, cooked.

Imagine an oven in your home with poor heat retention, and every time you wanted to roast a chicken, you had to guess how long it would take because you couldn’t be sure if it would be cooked or not. That wouldn’t work, would it?

So don’t settle for that with your grills either. I know I wouldn’t.

Now we know Webers have excellent heat retention, but what’s really important is understanding why they do.

are-weber-grills-worth-the-money
See, Webers are fancy!

Aluminum Heat Retention Liners

This isn’t something you’ll find on every Weber grill, but it’s still a feature I want to talk about.

To find out if the Weber grill you’re most interested in has this feature or not, just head to the Weber product page on their website, find your grill, and check out the features.

If it has it, it’ll usually say, because for grilling enthusiasts, this is a pretty exciting feature and it’ll be one you’d want to boast about as a manufacturer.

Basically, the aluminum heat retention liners work by reflecting heat back to the food.

Rather than escaping from the lid and bowl, the heat retention liners reflect the heat back, so the inside of the grill keeps the high temperatures it needs to cook your food quickly and efficiently.

And what works for heat retention usually works for heat distribution.

If you just imagine the Weber grill without the aluminum liner for a moment, the heat would be coming from the heat source below the food, heading up, and escaping after that.

With the aluminum heat retention liners, the heat is then reflected back at the food. No longer is it just getting heated from below, but it’s being heated from all directions.

Not only does that mean better heat retention and better heat distribution, but also just a more even cook, resulting in better food. That’s pretty amazing, right?

Ceramic Coated

Weber grills are ceramic coated, and that makes them especially great at heat retention. Ceramic is basically something of a mix between a conductor and insulator.

That means it’s both good at keeping hold of heat (heat retention) and spreading it around (heat distribution).

By having a ceramic coating inside the grills, Weber actually makes their grills much more efficient than others that don’t have the same ceramic coating.

As well as making the grills more efficient, and resulting food much more reliable and delicious as a result, the coating is also scratch-resistant.

That means that the ceramic-coated grill will remain looking great as well as performing great.

Really, there’s not much else to say about ceramic coated Weber grills other than the fact that ceramic coating is recognized as one of the most reliable features on grills for temperature control.

Even the top outdoor BBQ chefs will say that when a grill has a ceramic coating, it’ll be much more reliable and much more efficient as a result.

how-long-do-weber-grills-last
Webers Being Born!

Porcelain Coated

Wait a minute? Didn’t I just say these Weber grills were ceramic coated? Well, turns out they’re porcelain-coated too, and I’ll explain why that’s amazing below.

For now, though, let’s just give porcelain its place in the sun!

Porcelain-coated anything is good for grilling. Why? Because porcelain heats much quicker than most other products. Take porcelain grill grates, for example, which is what Weber uses.

While cast iron grill grates are often seen as the pinnacle of grill grates for longevity, it’s actually porcelain that performs best on the heat front.

And that’s why Weber takes their cast iron grill grates and gives them a porcelain coating.

Basically, porcelain gets hot quickly, stays hot for longer, and doesn’t ever reach a temperature point in a grill where it can become damaged.

This might be surprising to you since when I think of porcelain I think of delicate vases, but actually, porcelain is pretty hardy and durable stuff. You don’t need to worry about it being in a grill, let’s put it that way.

So what does porcelain coated grill grates mean for you in your Weber grills? Well, since that’s where the food is cooking, it means it’ll start cooking quicker and in a much more even way than with other grill grates.

A porcelain-coated Weber grill will heat up quicker, handle that heat more efficiently, and porcelain will even help with heat distribution.

The way porcelain-coated grates help with heat distribution is because they conduct the heat so well.

It’s what makes them so great for cooking (excuse the pun) because the grates distribute the heat evenly, meaning all the food on the grill cooks at relatively even temperatures.

I don’t know about you, but that sounds like it would benefit me just in practical cooking terms.

If everything is cooking evenly at the same time and same temperature, then that makes serving my guests much easier.

Weber Grills Are Double Walled

This is sort of my pièce de résistance! If the ceramic-coated grill, porcelain-coated grates, and aluminum-lined lid and bowl don’t convince you that Weber is one of the leading manufacturers, then I’m fairly certain the fact that they’re double-walled will.

What does double-walled even mean exactly?

Well, surprisingly, exactly as it sounds. The grills are all designed with two walls – an inner wall, and an outer wall. But why does that matter and how does it affect heat retention for Weber grills?

To illustrate my point, I’m going to ask you to do something that I don’t often ask of you on this blog – forget about grills for a moment. Don’t worry all you grill lovers out there.

We’ll return to grills in a moment or two. For now, though, I want you to imagine building a shelter instead.

Now, imagine I task you and a friend with building shelters. Your primary goal is to build shelters that retain heat as well as possible.

That means keeping hold of more of it for longer. Imagine you build a shelter that’s double-walled – one inner wall, one outer wall – and your friend only builds a shelter with a single wall.

Your shelter is going to be much better at heat retention. It’ll get hotter quicker, and it’ll stay hotter for longer.

And the same basic principles apply to Weber grills (I told you we’d get back to grills eventually, didn’t I?).

Because the heat would essentially need to escape from two walls, it struggles. That’s it.

That’s how double-walled Weber grills retain their heat so well. Even if you stripped back the porcelain and ceramic coatings and the aluminum lining, it’d still retain heat pretty well, because the heat just couldn’t escape as quickly.

There’s really no secret to it. If there are more barriers to stop heat from escaping, then there is less chance of that heat escaping. Simple enough, really.

best-weber-charcoal-grill

A Note On Heat Distribution

I mentioned at the start of this section on Webers having excellent heat retention that what works for heat retention often works for heat distribution, and that’s still true.

The aluminum lid reflecting heat back towards the food distributes heat evenly. The ceramic coating of the grill heats up evenly, helping distribute heat evenly too.

And the porcelain coated grates will heat up quickly and evenly, meaning the heat is distributed quickly and evenly too.

As for the double walls? Well, if the heat can’t escape, then it has to simply travel around the grill.

When heat travels around the grill, it’s being distributed! So it even works for the double-walled feature too.

So, Weber’s Really Do Have Excellent Heat Retention

When grilling outdoors, the two most fundamental things a grill needs to be good at are heat distribution and heat retention.

Honestly, for me, Weber is one of the best grill manufacturers out there for both.

They focus on innovation and exciting new ways of improving their heat distribution and retention all the time, and that’s something as a griddle enthusiast, I want to see manufacturers doing.

Cooking outdoors needs proper equipment that can stand up to the elements and handle the temperature changes outside.

When a grill can perform brilliantly outdoors because of its excellent features focussing on heat retention and distribution, then you know you’re already on to a good thing.

With Weber, thanks to the aluminum lining, ceramic and porcelain coatings, and double-walled design, you can be confident that their grills can stand up to the elements and create great food that’s cooked evenly, every single time.

Pros Of a Gas Weber Grill

The major advantage of gas grills over, say, charcoal grills is that they’re much easier to maintain and clean.

Burning charcoal makes a mess, everybody knows it, and it can be a real pain when you’ve finished a long day of grilling with friends and family and don’t feel like cleaning up the grill.

Gas Weber grills don’t suffer from this problem, and that’s a huge plus.

Another thing I love about gas Weber grills is that they’re much faster to cook on, and that starts with the infinity ignition systems.

Just from personal user experience, I can tell you that if I’m ever in a rush to eat, I’ll fire up a gas grill over a charcoal one any day.

Why? Because there’s no messing around trying to light the charcoal and get the flames under control.

You just switch on the gas, switch on your burners, and then go. It’s fast, it’s convenient, and it makes any grill users’ life much easier.

Talking more about usability, controlling the cook is much easier too. Notice something getting a little charred? Turn down one of the burners to create a separate ‘keep warm’ zone.

With charcoal grills, you cook at one temperature whether you like it or not. So if you ever have burgers that are charred on the outside and raw in the middle, there’s not a lot you can do about it.

But with a gas Weber grill, you can control the cook and move the food around as and when you need it, so you get perfectly cooked food every time.

There are other pros too, and I’ll quick-fire them to you at the end of this point, but I just wanted to finish on what I think is the best thing about Weber grills that run on gas: it feels safer.

Sure, you need to store the propane gas for the grill in a safe place and be responsible with it. I’m not arguing with you there.

But in terms of the actual cook, I always feel safer behind a gas grill compared with any other.

There’s no black smoke and ash billowing up to your face, and you don’t have to stand over it breathing it all in.

Instead, the food just cooks nicely and you don’t need to worry about large flare-ups as you do with charcoal grills.

And here are the other quick-fire pros I promised:

  • There’s an argument to be had that food cooked over gas grills are healthier than those over charcoal ones
  • Arguably a cheaper alternative considering the price of gas tanks isn’t too expensive when compared to charcoal
  • Still get a great flavor from the food

Cons Of a Gas Weber Grill

I’m not one to write one-sided reviews, though, and I know there are some problems with gas grills compared to charcoal and electric ones.

First, I said before how much faster gas grills are to cook on, but if you want something that’s extremely fast and extremely controlled, then you can’t really get better than electric grills.

On the safety front, electric grills probably win again.

Flavor-wise, I don’t think you can beat charcoal grills, and many other grilling enthusiasts will agree.

There’s something both primal and delicious about cooking a slab of meat over charcoal flames, and that smoke and char give the food an extra something that gas grills just can’t.

I do think gas grills still give great flavor, and arguably better flavor than electric grills, but if you’re looking for the best of the best, then you’d have to give it to a charcoal grill.

Another thing you have to say about gas Weber grills is that they’re much heavier. That means much less opportunity for you to take them with you.

Even smaller gas grills are much heavier than small charcoal grills, and you can’t take them places as easily.

First, you have to pack the thing up, grab the gas, and then put it all into a truck and drive it over to wherever you’re headed. With charcoal grills, the process is much simpler.

And finally, although I said earlier gas grills are cheaper when running them, the initial investment is much higher for a Weber gas grill over a Weber charcoal grill.

Sure, the electric grills will set you back even more, but there’s no way anyone can say Weber gas grills are cheap. Charcoal? Yes. Gas? Not really.

Pros Of a Charcoal Weber Grill

If you’re thinking about charcoal as an alternative to electric and gas grills, then here are a few reasons why that’s a brilliant idea. But, first, that smokey flavor.

You’re not going to be able to recreate that authentically with either of your two alternative grill options, so if you want an original smokey flavor for your food, then come to the original: charcoal grills.

Second, they are the cheapest of the lot for initial investment. That means right now, if you’ve not got a grill yet and you want to start grilling right away, you won’t have to save for very long to pick up a Weber charcoal grill that will suit your needs.

Nowadays, the cost of things is more important than ever, so I’d have to recommend a charcoal Weber grill over the others if you’re worried about the price.

And for me, the best thing is portability. Grilling and adventuring should go together more often than it does, and with a Weber charcoal grill, you get that option.

Light, easy to take along with you, and fun to fire up anywhere? Yeah, that sounds good to me!

Cons Of a Charcoal Weber Grill

The number one problem for me and millions of grillers like me is the lack of control that charcoal grills give you.

This isn’t exclusive to Weber grills, it’s the same complaint across the board.

Why? Because with the introduction of electric grills and gas grills, we started to expect a little more control over our cooking. Too hot? Turn it down. Need more heat? Turn the dial the other way.

With charcoal grills, your cook is left up to the will of Mother Nature, and let me tell you, she can be cruel sometimes.

Sure, you can learn to eyeball the food on your grill and know when to take it off so it’s perfectly cooked, but that takes experience, and not everybody has that.

Another issue that’s related are hot and cold spots. Sometimes Mother Nature will fire up those flames and make the whole thing burn red hot.

Other times, she’ll give a half-hearted attempt, leaving you with hot and cold spots, and making your cooking process much more complicated as a result.

Here are some more of my top quick-fire complaints about charcoal Weber grills:

  • Messy and difficult to clean
  • Smoke is good for the flavor, but bad for you and the environment
  • Restricted to outdoor use in very well-ventilated areas
  • Sometimes struggle to get the fire started

A Note On an Electric Weber Grill

There are many pros and cons to electric Weber grills too, but I think these grills appeal most often to the health-conscious, so really the pros and cons of these don’t matter as much.

Are electric Weber grills your best option for your health and the health of the environment? Absolutely. And that is often the main selling point of them.

Could I complain about the lack of smokey flavor?

Sure, but that point becomes moot when you know you’re doing it for the health benefits to yourself and the environment.

You won’t miss the flavor, because you’re specifically avoiding the smoke to begin with.

Now I love electric grills, and Weber’s options are amazing, but you’ll only pick one up if you really want an electric grill for health and environmental purposes. If you’ve no interest in that, then you’ll have no interest in them.

Making Your Weber Grill Mind Up

So, the choice is yours. Gas vs electric vs charcoal. Above is all the information you need about their pros and cons.

Now all you need to do is consider your Weber options and decide which option is the right one for you.

  • Health and environmentally conscious? Go electric.
  • All about the flavor? Charcoal it is.
  • Looking for a middle ground? Gas is probably best.

And that’s all I’ll say about that…Now, on to the Best of Weber Grills!

Best Weber Charcoal Grill

Deciding on the very best Weber charcoal grill for this post is nigh on impossible, but what I have managed to do is narrow it down to two of the very best Weber charcoal grills for you to decide between.

Yes, I am very much passing the book on this one.

So, let me introduce you to the Weber Master Touch 22 and the Weber Performer Deluxe 22 below. Trust me, deciding between these two amazing charcoal grills isn’t going to be easy…

Weber Master Touch 22 Charcoal Grill

Let’s start with the Master-Touch. I think the reason I love this grill so much is that it doesn’t try to act too much like a traditional charcoal grill.

By that, I mean it doesn’t just give you the basics and expect you to handle the rest – it’s a little more advanced than that, and I think that’s what charcoal grills have been suffering with for a while.

They’re a little ‘stone age’, but the Weber Master Touch 22 is anything but.

The Gourmet BBQ System used here is a hinged cooking grate that also has room for additional extras. If you want to purchase a wok or griddle insert, then you can do so.

Now, why is that important? Because charcoal grills are often criticized for being too basic.

You can’t cook eggs for breakfast or whip up a stir-fry on a traditional grill because of the plates.

Well, this charcoal grill deals with that, making it a true all-rounder.

The usability of this charcoal grill is also much improved compared to older models from other manufacturers, and Weber gets it right here by thinking about the design more closely.

There’s a ‘Tuck-Away’ lid holder which makes placement much easier, taller legs for better use, and a Char-Basket that holds the fuel (charcoal briquettes) in a really intuitive way.

You can arrange the charcoal quickly, and get it lit fast, which is not something you can say about a lot of charcoal grills.

And because you can arrange them easily, you can set up areas for direct and indirect cooking too, giving you much more control over the cook (an advantage that gas grills usually have over charcoal ones, but not anymore!).

There’s a lot of space available too, with enough room for 13 burgers, according to Weber.

There are even grilling tool hooks incorporated into the design to just make the user experience that much more streamlined.

But perhaps the thing I love the most about the Weber Master Touch 22 is the built-in lid thermometer.

Control over the temperature isn’t something you can master with charcoal grills, but Weber recognizes that flaw and provides you with a thermometer that easily tells you the grill’s internal temperature.

It’s not a perfect fix, but it’s info that can help you control your cook much better – and that’s what’s so exciting about this Weber charcoal grill!

Weber Performer Deluxe 22 Charcoal Grill

Now for the Performer Deluxe. This is almost a hybrid grill, taking the best of gas grills and the best of charcoal ones and mixing it all up into one delightful package.

Why? Well, you just need to take one look at the new ‘Touch-N-Go’ gas ignition feature to know that this is a charcoal grill that’s heavily inspired by Weber’s gas counterparts.

The ‘Touch-N-Go’ feature means all you need to do is press a button to light the charcoal. It’s that simple.

Given that charcoal grills usually suffer from lengthy starting processes, this is a huge plus in Weber’s favor here. And they don’t stop there.

Ever heard that charcoal grills are a hassle to clean? What, I said it earlier? Yeah, I guess I did…

Well, Weber’s proved me wrong already with the Performer Deluxe, because it has something they call the ‘One-Touch’ cleaning system.

And how does that work? Well, it’s another quick fix. Just set the cleaning system to go, and it’ll clean the grill for you, catching all the ash and making the cleaning process a breeze.

In addition, it has a bunch of things you’d expect from a Weber grill – space (13 burgers again), porcelain-enameled lid and bowl, great cooking grates, and much more besides.

Usability is a priority again, with a work table for food prep and space for your tools!

As charcoal grills go, this one is an exciting one, because it deals with all the major flaws of a charcoal grill and delivers something with outstanding performance and usability.

Best Weber Gas Grill

That’s the charcoal grills covered. Now let’s do a quick section about the best Weber gas grills too.

Again, I’m leaving the final decision up to you, because I love them both and couldn’t decide, but if you’re looking for one, then I’d definitely choose between the Weber Genesis 325S or the Weber Spirit II E310.

Both of these are excellent examples of the best Weber gas grills on offer, and either of them would serve you well.

But if you want a little more information about why they’re the best, then I’ll include them in the sections below!

Weber Genesis 325S Gas Grill

The Weber Genesis is a perfect example of what gas grills should be.

It can handle everything from prepping and searing, all the way to serving, and it’s all thanks to the intuitive design.

The large prep and serve table is perfect for hosting large get-togethers, and it makes serving guests so much easier.

But perhaps the most exciting feature of the Weber Genesis is the Sear Zone.

This isn’t a new feature for Weber, and a lot of their gas grills have a zone designated for searing, but this one is the largest and the hottest one yet.

Why is that important? Because the more effective prep you can do, the easier the cook will be, and searing your meat is a really important step to get delicious food.

Especially on gas grills that lack the smoke of charcoal ones – searing is where you trap in that flavor.

In addition to the new, larger Sear Zone, the Genesis also has an expandable top cooking grate giving you an extra level for barbecuing.

In practice, I find that the second layer is often used as a ‘keep warm’ space for the meat whilst the sides cook after it.

And that’s perfect because it means everything is served hot, all at once.

And all you need to do is transfer it to a serving platter waiting on the prep and serve table we talked about above, and Voila, delicious food served quickly from an amazing grill.

Finally, another exciting feature is the grease tray. I know it doesn’t sound exciting, but it’s been improved to catch more of the grease that falls, making your clean-up process much easier too.

And that’s ultimately what’s so exciting about the Weber Genesis gas grill – everything has been thought about, so using it is easy for the customer.

To me, that’s what grilling is all about – fun, easy, fresh. And Genesis delivers.

Weber Spirit II E310 Gas Grill

And finally, we have the Weber Spirit! This is another great option when you’re looking for Weber gas grills.

It’s a stainless-steel three-burner grill with more than enough cooking space to feed your family and a few guests!

This is another example of a Weber grill that has some amazing additional extras you can buy to make the cooking experience even more streamlined, and I’d definitely recommend the iGrill 3 with this.

And finally, we have the Weber Spirit! This is another great option when you’re looking for Weber gas grills.

It’s a stainless-steel three-burner grill with more than enough cooking space to feed your family and a few guests!

This is another example of a Weber grill that has some amazing additional extras you can buy to make the cooking experience even more streamlined, and I’d definitely recommend the iGrill 3 with this.

Yes, that’s right, the Weber Spirit is compatible with the iGrill 3 thermometer, and it does make a real difference to the cook.

It’s app-connected, so it means you don’t even need to sit right by the grill the whole time to make sure everything is cooking as it should.

If something changes, you’ll get a notification right to your smartphone and then you can intervene as needed. It’s a smart way to cook, and it definitely makes grill fans like me excited.

The grease management system is similar to Genesis too, in that it’ll catch more grease than ever so clean-up will be simple.

The Spirit also comes with porcelain-enameled flavorizer bars for cooking, meaning you really get the most out of your gas grill.

No, it won’t recreate the smokey flavor of a charcoal grill, but it does make the food taste much better, and because it’s porcelain-enameled, you can guarantee a more even cook for the food too.

I’ve spoken before about all Weber grills heat retention properties, but this specific model really packs the most in – a stainless steel heat deflector, porcelain-coated grates, and porcelain-coated lid means that getting the perfect cook with this gas grill is going to be a breeze.

Team that with the iGrill 3, and you’ve got yourself a winning combination that will guarantee you barbecue success time and time again!

I can’t complain about the Weber Spirit gas grill, and I doubt you’ll find much to complain about either.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a reliable, portable electric grill that can cook up some delicious food in just minutes then the Weber Q 1400 is your best bet.

The Weber Spirit II E-310 is our top choice for a gas grill thanks to its exceptional design and quality, compact design, and top-notch all around performance.

If you want to cook like a pro, we recommend the Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill.

This tried-and-true design is perfect for any cooking occasion and will have your food cooked just right every time!

Investing in a high-quality Weber grill is a surefire way to elevate your outdoor cooking game. Whether you opt for a gas, charcoal, or electric model, be sure to consider factors such as size, materials, heat distribution, and additional features when making your decision.

With proper maintenance and care, your Weber grill can provide years of sizzling, mouthwatering meals for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

Mike

Lover of the outdoors and great food. If I'm not in my backyard cooking up a feast, I'm deep in the backcountry camping....and cooking up a feast! Follow along and let's create something great.