Both sizes have the same features and are available in LP and natural gas models. LP models have Weber’s Fuel Gauge, which estimates your gas tank level by weight. Many gas (that is, propane gas) grills also come in a natural-gas version, usually with a different model number that includes an “N” for natural gas. Some models have a conversion kit (as standard or optional equipment) that requires some modification to a propane grill in order to use it with natural gas. If you’re unfamiliar or uncomfortable with these modifications, you may need to hire a professional to do the job your retailer should be able to help with arrangements.
They cooked fast at two minutes per side, although the front row needed an additional minute. We’d prefer overall, even heat from the front to the back of the grill, but we appreciated how quickly and easily Spirit II cooked this popular item. The burgers were remarkably juicy, perhaps due to the fast cook time. This fire box design holds and radiates heat evenly, perhaps making up for a lid that seems slightly light weight.
This two-burner grill is great for grilling novices or for folks with limited space. However, it lacks some of the versatility—and heat output—of our other picks. The Weber Genesis E-325s is a whole foot longer than the company’s Spirit II E-310, with 20% more cooking area.
Most grills have a mechanical igniter of either the push-button or rotary design. More convenient is a battery-operated electronic igniter, which usually ignites the gas on the first try. Some grills also have lighting holes, on the side of or beneath the grill, that can be used with a match should the igniter fail. Indicates whether the grill provides one ore more hooks to hang your grilling tools. While burners remain the grill’s most-replaced part, most are warranted for only 3 to 5 years.
Gas grills cook faster and are easier to use than charcoal grills because you can light the flame with the press of a button and control the heat with the turn of a knob. They don’t produce much smoke, and they’re simpler to clean than charcoal grills, since you don’t have to dump any ashes. To some extent, all grills run cooler toward the front of the grate, but in our tests the Spirit II E-310 offered the most consistent heating across the entire grate surface.
If you’re looking for a big grill that has a larger cooking area and more power, consider the Weber Genesis E-325s. Our reader survey revealed high satisfaction char broil performance with Weber grills’ performance and reliability. Of the 1,000-plus Wirecutter readers we surveyed, over 60% said they owned Weber grills.
Note the notches on the sides of each bar which provide a visual confirmation that the burners beneath them are indeed lit. For 2018, Weber sticks to the basics with a revamped version of their popular, full-size, entry-level Spirit gas grill line. Like its predecessor, Spirit II is a workhorse that delivers solid performance and is easy to use, easy to clean and available in two and three burner configurations. Increasingly cuckoo for color, Weber offers Spirit in black, ivory, red, sapphire, exclusive mocha versions for Lowe’s and exclusive stainless steel versions for Home Depot. Weber added two new models to its Spirit line of gas grills in 2020, but we ultimately chose not to test them.
With their acquisition of iGrill digital thermometers, Weber is addressing this issue. Spirit II is “iGrill3 Ready” with a mounting place on the right side shelf for an optional iGrill 3 digital thermometer. This Bluetooth device enables you to place one digital probe at the cooking surface to dial up the correct oven temp, and one probe in your food to monitor internal meat temp. The concept is a big leap in the right direction. Surprisingly, however, there is no read out on the iGrill 3 itself. You need to use the app even when you’re standing at the grill.
Every grill lover has been involved in or heard about lump charcoal vs briquettes arguments before. Five different types of charcoal can serve grillers excellently. Here, we’ll show them to you and tell you which is the best. If you are using the grill outside, you’re definitely going to attract some dust. Just ensure that your cleaning brush isn’t toxic.
Size category for the grill, based on CR’s measurement of the main cooking grid area. Portable grills are grouped together regardless of cooking area, though typically these are small grills. Wirecutter is the product recommendation service from The New York Times. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing so you can make quick and confident buying decisions. Whether it’s finding great products or discovering helpful advice, we’ll help you get it right (the first time).