The Ultimate Weber Charcoal Grill Review: 3 Top Picks Compared
If you’re a grilling enthusiast, you know that Weber is one of the most trusted names in outdoor cooking. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, cooking for your family, or just love that authentic charcoal-grilled flavor, having the right grill makes all the difference.
Today, we’re reviewing three popular Weber charcoal grills that stand out on Amazon:
✅ Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch
✅ Weber Performer Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch
✅ Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
Let’s break them down, so you can decide which one fits your backyard cooking dreams.
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch
The Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch is a classic choice that has stood the test of time. It’s designed for grillers who want simplicity but still demand top-notch performance.
✅ Key Features:
- 363 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl (retains heat, resists rust/peeling)
- Built-in lid thermometer
- Hinged cooking grate (easy to add charcoal during grilling)
- One-Touch cleaning system with removable ash catcher
✅ Why We Like It:
It’s an excellent value for the price, offering durability and a timeless design. The hinged grate makes adding fuel easy, and the One-Touch system simplifies cleanup — perfect for busy grillers.
✅ Drawbacks:
It doesn’t include side tables or extra storage, so it’s best for those who don’t need a workspace attached.
Weber Performer Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch
The Weber Performer 22-Inch kicks things up a notch by combining the Original Kettle with a built-in work table, making it a top choice for serious backyard chefs.
✅ Key Features:
- 363 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl
- Built-in lid thermometer
- Heavy-duty steel cart frame with work table
- CharBin storage container for charcoal
- One-Touch cleaning system
✅ Why We Like It:
The Performer is like the Premium’s bigger, smarter sibling. The attached work surface gives you a prep area, and the CharBin is incredibly handy for keeping your charcoal dry and accessible. It’s perfect for grillers who want more organization and space.
✅ Drawbacks:
It’s larger and heavier than the Premium, so it takes up more patio space. Also, the extra features come at a higher price point.
Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
The Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch is the no-frills version of the Kettle series, offering the same classic shape and dependable performance but at a more affordable price.
✅ Key Features:
- 363 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl
- Plated steel cooking grate
- Aluminum ash catcher (non-removable)
- Adjustable dampers for temperature control
✅ Why We Like It:
This grill is straightforward, affordable, and perfect for those just getting into charcoal grilling or those who grill occasionally. You still get Weber’s reliable construction without paying extra for features you might not need.
✅ Drawbacks:
There’s no built-in thermometer, the ash catcher is basic, and the grate doesn’t have hinges, so adding charcoal mid-cook can be trickier.
Final Thoughts: Which Weber Grill Should You Choose?
✅ If you’re a beginner or on a tighter budget → Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch
✅ If you want more features without breaking the bank → Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch
✅ If you need a complete grilling station with workspace and storage → Weber Performer 22-Inch
No matter which you pick, you’re getting a quality charcoal grill that’s built to last. Weber’s reputation is well-earned, and these models cover every type of griller, from weekend hobbyists to seasoned BBQ masters.
Have You Used One of These Grills?
We’d love to hear your experience! Drop a comment below and let us know which Weber grill you love and why.
And if you’re ready to upgrade your grill setup, click the banners above or the product links to check them out on Amazon and get cooking!
