And with each new version of the models we’re familiar with, the most important characteristics—such as quality of materials and construction—are the same. We spoke again with Joe Salvaggio of Big Apple BBQ about the newest models, and we examined our main contenders in person at Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Bering’s in Houston. Our tests were designed and run by Wirecutter senior staff writer Lesley Stockton, who has a decade of experience in professional kitchens, much of it spent on the grill station. Senior staff writer Tim Heffernan, who wrote the original version of this guide, helped with testing, along with senior staff writer Michael Sullivan. Sam Sifton, then food editor of The New York Times, also joined in the testing and added his extensive knowledge. In 2018, we tested Weber’s new Spirit II E-310—successor to our previous pick, the first-gen Spirit E-310—against our upgrade pick for the best gas grill.
After years of testing grills, we can’t think of a better deal for a great grill than the Original Weber Kettle, which has been our favorite charcoal grill for almost 10 years. Cooking with charcoal is not as convenient as turning a dial and walking away, but we love a Weber kettle for its simplicity and durability. It’s a classic backyard staple, and it can fit up to 12 burger patties to feed a crowd—the same as the Spirit II E-310, but for less than half the price. Even though we didn’t officially test the Spirit II E-210, we did test its predecessor, the Weber Spirit E-210 .
In 2021, Weber introduced a line of smart grills that we chose not to test. The app also has recipes and a step-by-step feature that sends alerts to your phone when it’s time to tend to your food. All of these extra gadgets require power, and the Genesis Smart Grill takes 10 batteries. The Wi-Fi module alone uses six D batteries, but there is an option to power that part with a power bank.
This is still the best fuel for firing up the grill quickly and easily, without needing special hookups or having to tend coals. With more heat per square inch and a larger grilling area than the Spirit E-310, the Genesis Blackstone Adventure E-325s is our top choice for dedicated grillers. Be the first to know about promotions, special offers and product releases. Sign up to be the first to know about promotions, special offers and product releases.
What is more, its heat redistribution is fantastic, ensuring great results even if you cram it with as much food as it can hold. The porcelain enameled cast iron Gourmet BBQ System cooking grate is a cooking grate that fits all attachments. Weber’s Smart Grill revolution may be mostly a Genesis-line upgrade, but they did spread the wealth to the Spirit series with the SX-315. They took the quality of the Spirit line and added their new Weber CONNECT technology so you can monitor how quickly your food is cooking via the included probe thermometer.