Should You Buy the Weber Smokey Joe Portable Grill? A Detailed Review!

Description

Grilling Performance

As someone who grills regularly, I was eager to see if the Weber Smokey Joe 14-Inch Portable Grill lived up to its reputation. This little powerhouse impressed me with its consistent grilling performance. I managed to cook five burgers at once, and every single one came out evenly grilled. The porcelain-enameled bowl and lid help retain heat effectively, ensuring the food cooks through without any flare-ups. I’ve even grilled steaks and hot dogs on this, and they always come out juicy and flavorful. Its ability to maintain steady heat is something I genuinely didn’t expect from such a compact charcoal grill.

Temperature Control

Controlling the temperature on this grill is surprisingly easy, even for a portable model. It features adjustable dampers, which allow precise regulation of airflow. Whether I wanted high heat for searing or lower temperatures for slow cooking, adjusting the dampers was intuitive. I experimented by creating a two-zone setup, banking the coals to one side for indirect cooking. This worked wonderfully for reverse-searing a steak. One thing to note, though, is that the grill lacks a built-in thermometer, so I had to rely on a separate one. It’s an extra step but nothing that ruined the experience.

Portability & Storage

Convenience is a top priority for me, and this grill doesn’t disappoint. At just under 10 pounds, it’s light enough for me to carry to the park, beach, or even my friend’s backyard. The compact size means it fits easily in the trunk of my car. Despite its portability, it doesn’t feel flimsy. The build quality is solid, and I trust it to last through multiple trips. Storage at home is also a breeze; it doesn’t take up much space in my garage. I even had my neighbor borrow it for a camping trip, and they couldn’t stop raving about how easy it was to transport.

Ease of Use

Setting up the grill was straightforward, even for someone like me who isn’t particularly handy. Assembly mainly involved attaching the legs and ash catcher, which took me about 10 minutes. Lighting the charcoal is simple, especially if you use a chimney starter. Once lit, the grill heats up quickly, and the cooking grate provides enough room for small gatherings. One of my favorite aspects is how intuitive it is to use, even for beginners. My cousin, who had never grilled before, used it during a family cookout and handled it like a pro.

Cleaning

Cleaning up after grilling is always the least enjoyable part, but the Weber Smokey Joe makes it manageable. The aluminum ash catcher collects most of the debris, making disposal quick and easy. I also found that the plated steel cooking grate wipes clean with minimal effort. For tougher grease, I used a ball of aluminum foil to scrub it down, and it worked like a charm. However, the bottom vents can sometimes get clogged with ash, requiring a quick poke with a screwdriver. It’s a minor inconvenience but worth noting.

Durability

After weeks of regular use, I can confidently say this grill is built to last. The porcelain-enameled finish resists rust and peeling, which is great because I’ve left it outdoors during light rain without any issues. The glass-reinforced nylon handle stays cool to the touch and feels sturdy. My coworker owns the same model and mentioned that his has survived years of tailgating and camping trips without significant wear. Compared to other portable grills I’ve tried, this one feels above average in terms of durability.

Features

One of the standout features is its porcelain-enameled bowl and lid. They don’t just look sleek; they provide excellent heat retention, which is crucial for consistent grilling. The plated steel cooking grate is another highlight, as it heats evenly and is easy to clean. The rust-resistant aluminum damper and ash catcher add to the overall convenience. While it doesn’t come with bells and whistles like a built-in thermometer, its simplicity is part of its charm. It’s a grill that focuses on doing the basics exceptionally well.

Warranty

Having a warranty on a product always gives me peace of mind, and this grill comes with Weber’s limited warranty. Knowing that the brand stands behind its product reassures me that I’ve made a solid investment. I haven’t needed to use the warranty yet, but reviews suggest Weber has good customer service should you encounter any issues. My friend, who owns another Weber product, had a minor problem with a component, and they resolved it quickly.

Good Points

• Durable porcelain-enameled finish resists rust and peeling.
• Compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel and storage.
• Adjustable dampers allow precise temperature control.
• Easy to assemble and intuitive for beginners.

Negative Attributes

• No built-in thermometer included, requiring a separate one for precise temperature monitoring.
• Bottom vents can occasionally clog with ash, needing manual clearing.
• Limited cooking space may not be ideal for larger gatherings.

Competing Products

When I compared the Weber Smokey Joe to other portable grills, a few names stood out. The Lodge Cast Iron Sportsman’s Grill offers similar portability but lacks the ease of cleaning and precise temperature control. Larger models like the Char-Griller Akorn Jr. Kamado offer more cooking space and temperature efficiency but are heavier and less portable. The Smokey Joe strikes a perfect balance between portability, durability, and grilling performance, making it a winner in its category.

True Value

This little grill delivers a lot of bang for your buck. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, its durability, reliability, and consistent performance make it worth the investment. I’ve tried budget grills before, and they either rust quickly or fail to maintain heat properly. Spending a bit more on the Weber Smokey Joe feels like a smart move for anyone serious about grilling on the go.

Additional information