Each style has definite benefits, and which one you choose is a matter of personal preference. However, we prefer the ergonomic lids and durable oversized wheels that are available on the Genesis II models. Neither will affect the grill’s performance, but we think they’re easier on the eyes. The regular Genesis II grills are designed to appeal to everyday grillers, while the II LX models are geared toward die-hard BBQ fans. With the Genesis II line, Weber has attempted to ramp up the quality of their products. In addition to updating the overall design, they’ve made the burners and ignition systems more efficient.
The baseline features are 3 burners with each 13,000 BTU cooking power. The other gas-grilling weak spot I hoped this Weber could overcome is obtaining a good, hard sear. I picked up a ribeye and let the grill preheat for 15 minutes, portable bbq which left the heat deflectors glowing orange. I patted the steak dry, salted and peppered it, then set it on the grill and let it rip for five minutes on a dial setting Weber calls High+, the LX line’s version of going to 11.
Weber’s Genesis grills feature a sturdy stainless-steel construction for the frame, side tables, and burners. All are equipped with heavy-duty steel lids, and the lids in the E series also feature a porcelain coating that helps to protect the grill while locking in the heat. Made in China labelSad, but true, 2016 is the last model year in which all Weber Genesis grills can say, “Made in the United States of America with globally sourced parts and components”.
In our Weber Genesis vs Genesis II review, we’ll walk you through the answers. The handle light illuminates the entire grilling surface allowing you to see the true color of your food. If you’re an app person, you might want to avail yourself of a downloadable app called Bilt that offers 3-D step-by-step assembly instructions. However, when you start looking more closely at other components, they don’t seem as substantial. The work surfaces, the control panel, some of the smaller pieces on the back side of the grill, and especially the cover that visually screens the propane tank seem quite flimsy. One of the first impressions you get from a Weber gas grill is when you lift the lid and feel its substantial weight.
Weber is known to have the best warranty in the industry for its grilling products. Genesis II and II LX series are not an exception to this. Weber provides and amazing 10 year warranty for the heart of their grills (i.e. Burners, Ignition, Lid and the Cookbox).
Grill chicken on the main grates, sear steaks on the searing station, simmer barbecue sauce on the side burner and keep veggie burgers warm on the tucked-away warming rack. Every component was designed for ease-of-use and a satisfying grilling experience. The Infinity Ignition ensures the burners light easily every time. Smoke-infused food grills evenly and consistently regardless of where it’s placed on the porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grate. A doored cabinet and six tool hooks provide plenty of storage space for grilling essentials.
Since its inception in the 1950s, Weber has been an industry leader when it comes to backyard grilling. I draped the ribs across the Genesis II’s metal warming tray that sits above the grill grates. Finally I dialed all three burner knobs down to their lowest setting and closed the lid. I cooked two racks this way; the first I ran for 3 hours, the second for 3 hours 30 minutes.
Finally there is an “entry-level” Genesis two burner grill. I’m not sure if Weber realizes that this model is sort of getting stiff competition from their new Spirit II range, but I guess it doesn’t matter much as it’s all in the family. Okay, those are the basics applicable to every grill in the series. In this space, quite conveniently placed right in the center, is the grease tray, making for easy cleanup at least. This easier grease management is a plus, so you win some you lose some. Up top the Genesis II grills cut a close copy of their predecessors.
With its high-end build quality, excellent cooking power and advanced range of features, it’s the grill range to turn to when you want results. Then, shop Weber grill covers to protect your investment well into the future. Weber is one of the biggest names in grilling, and the Genesis range of BBQs is known for combining excellent build quality, great cooking ability and high-value affordability. The Genesis lineup has recently been redesigned to include many new advanced features, and you can find the Weber Genesis II collection here at Ace. In terms of both looks and performance, the Weber Genesis II E-310 gas grill packs a punch. Plus, it’s easy-to-use for beginners and offers room for growth.
I learned that while its burners are mighty, they also offer a wide temperature range which can be unforgiving if you’re not careful. For example, when I turned the Genesis II’s burner dials all the way up, after 10 minutes the temperature under the hood easily cracked weber q 600 degrees (633.7 in fact). That same high setting and preheat time on the Char-Broil SmartChef Tru-Infrared yielded an internal temp of 457.4 degrees. Likewise, medium power on the Genesis, especially cooking with indirect heat, was much cooler than I expected.