Can the Weber Smokey Joe Premium 14-Inch Grill Deliver? Honest Review Inside!

Description

Features

The Weber Smokey Joe Premium 14-Inch Portable Grill, model 40020, packs a surprising number of features into its compact frame. Its porcelain-enameled lid and bowl are standout design elements, ensuring superior heat retention and resistance to rust and peeling. The Tuck-N-Carry lid lock is more than a nifty add-on; it doubles as a lid holder, saving you from awkwardly placing the lid on the ground during grilling sessions. I also appreciated the heavy-duty fuel grate, which holds up well under high heat and frequent use. Dampers on both sides allow for precise heat control, making it easy to manage temperature adjustments depending on what you’re cooking. Despite its small size, this grill is highly functional, capable of holding up to five burgers made with a Weber burger press. These features make it a strong contender for outdoor enthusiasts and picnic lovers.

Grilling Performance

Using this portable grill for my weekend cookouts has been a game-changer. The heat distribution is impressively even, thanks to its kettle-style design. I tested it with burgers, chicken thighs, and even veggie skewers, and the results were consistent across the board. The charcoal sits close to the cooking grate, which speeds up the cooking process while locking in that smoky flavor. However, keep in mind that the grill’s smaller size means you’ll need to be strategic about how you arrange your food. For a party of four or fewer, it’s perfect, but it might feel a bit cramped if you’re cooking for a larger group.

Ease of Use

Setting up this grill was straightforward, even for someone like me who isn’t particularly handy. The instructions were clear, and the assembly process took less than 15 minutes. Lighting the charcoal is a breeze with a Weber Rapid Fire chimney starter, which I highly recommend as an accessory. Once heated, it’s easy to adjust the airflow using the side dampers for optimal cooking conditions. The Tuck-N-Carry lid lock is incredibly convenient for both transport and while grilling, as it keeps the lid securely in place or acts as a handy holder. This design minimizes any fumbling around, making the overall grilling experience smooth and enjoyable.

Cleaning

Cleaning this grill was a mixed bag. The porcelain-enameled surface is easy to wipe down, and a quick spray with a garden hose takes care of most of the mess. However, the absence of an ash catcher on the bottom means you’ll need to manually scoop out the ash after every use. I found this a bit tedious, especially after longer grilling sessions. Adding aluminum foil to the bottom of the bowl helped to some extent, but it’s worth noting that this feature could be improved for added convenience.

Durability

This portable charcoal grill feels solid and well-made, living up to the reputation of its brand. The metal legs are sturdy, and the nylon handle is heat-resistant, which is a nice touch for safety. After months of use, the paint on the exterior has shown no signs of chipping, and the overall build is as robust as day one. That said, the wing nuts that hold the legs in place seem a bit flimsy. I replaced them with 1/4″-20 thread hex nuts for extra peace of mind, and now I feel confident this grill will last me several years.

Portability & Storage

Weighing in at just under 10 pounds, the Smokey Joe Premium is incredibly easy to carry. The compact size fits effortlessly into the trunk of my car, making it ideal for camping trips, beach outings, or tailgating. The Tuck-N-Carry lid lock secures the grill for transport, so there’s no risk of it opening up and spilling charcoal everywhere. When not in use, it doesn’t take up much storage space in my garage, which is a bonus for those with limited storage room.

Warranty

The limited warranty on this grill offers reassurance about its longevity. While I haven’t needed to use it, knowing that Weber stands behind their product adds to my confidence in its quality. It’s always a good idea to register your product with the manufacturer to streamline any potential warranty claims.

Strong Points

• Durable porcelain-enameled lid and bowl resist rust and peeling.
• Compact and lightweight design for easy transport.
• Tuck-N-Carry lid lock doubles as a lid holder.
• Even heat distribution ensures great grilling results.
• Precise airflow control with well-placed dampers.

Shortcomings

• Lack of an ash catcher makes cleanup less convenient.
• Cooking grate can feel cramped for larger meals.
• Wing nuts included for assembly may not be very durable.

Competing Brands

In comparison to other portable grills like the Cuisinart CCG-190RB and the Coleman RoadTrip 285, the Smokey Joe Premium excels in durability and heat retention but falls short in cleanup convenience. The Cuisinart model, for instance, features an ash catcher, making post-grill maintenance quicker, but it doesn’t match the Smokey Joe in build quality. The Coleman RoadTrip offers more cooking space, but it’s bulkier and not as easy to transport. For those prioritizing portability and robust construction, the Smokey Joe is a clear winner.

Cost-Effectiveness

This grill hits a sweet spot for quality and price. Its durable materials and thoughtful design details justify the investment, especially when compared to cheaper, less reliable models. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some higher-end options, it’s a reliable, long-lasting product that delivers excellent grilling performance. For anyone in need of a portable and efficient charcoal grill, it’s a smart choice that offers great value for the price.

Additional information