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

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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.

  • Holds up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press
  • 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
  • Use the lid hook to avoid placing the lid on the ground while grilling
  • Cooking grate is hinged for easily adding charcoal while grilling

Weber Performer Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch

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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.

  • 22-inch diameter porcelain-enameled bowl and lid with a cooking area of 363 square inch
  • Gourmet BBQ System hinged cooking grate. Tool hooks: 3
  • Aluminized steel One-Touch cleaning system with removable, high-capacity, aluminum ash catcher
  • Tuck-Away lid holder, rust-resistant aluminum damper and one glass-reinforced nylon handle
  • Assembled dimensions are 43.5-inch by 42-inch by 29-inch

Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill

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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.

  • Holds up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press
  • One-Touch cleaning system provides hassle-free ash cleanup
  • Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl Retain heat, and won’t rust or peel
  • Use the lid hook to avoid placing the lid on the ground while grilling
  • Dampers allow you to easily control the temperature inside your grill
  • Durable plated steel cooking grate retains heat and is easy to clean

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 bankWeber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch
✅ If you need a complete grilling station with workspace and storageWeber 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!

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