Weber kettle models compared: Original, Master-Touch and Performer

In its favour

• A stainless steel folding grate opens to add coals and resists rust better than plated steel.
• The Gourmet BBQ System centre accepts Weber inserts for pizza, wok or griddle cooking.
• A folding side table gives a little prep space without a full cart.

Good to know

• The listing does not describe the ash system or damper layout.
• At 24 kg it is heavier than the Original Kettle for the same grill size.

In its favour

• One-Touch cleaning sweeps ash into a removable catcher for quick emptying.
• A lid hook and tool hooks keep the lid and utensils off the ground.
• At 13.6 kg it is the lightest kettle in this comparison.

Good to know

• The plated steel grate is not hinged, so refuelling means lifting food off.
• No side table or GBS insert system is included.

In its favour

• A folding work table gives proper prep space, unlike a standalone kettle.
• An extra large ash collector is emptied with a single handle, says Weber.
• Two char baskets make it easy to switch between direct and indirect set-ups.

Good to know

• At 48 kg and 126 cm wide it takes far more room than a plain kettle.
• The listing does not give the cooking area in cm², so rely on the 57 cm size.

In its favour

• A char ring and diffuser plate turn the kettle into a smoker without extra purchases.
• A hinged lid stays attached, so checking the food is a one-handed job.
• Weber lists 3-in-1 use for grilling, roasting and smoking.

Good to know

• A kettle holds less meat on a smoke than a bullet stack or offset chamber.
• The listing is short and does not describe vents or ash handling.

In its favour

• One-Touch cleaning with a deep ash catcher, as on the dearer models.
• Closing the damper fully cuts the oxygen and puts out the coals, says Weber.
• Longer legs and improved stability are named in the listing.

Good to know

• No lid thermometer is mentioned in this listing.
• The basic grate has no hinged sections or insert centre.

In its favour

• A closed ash box underneath makes cleaning considerably easier, says the listing.
• Wheels let you roll it out on the patio and back into place.
• Dimensions of 126 x 72 x 102 cm are given for planning space.

Good to know

• The listing is thin on detail and does not describe the grate or ignition.
• It sits at the top of the kettle range and suits regular rather than occasional cooks.

In its favour

• Lid-closed dimensions of 107 x 65 x 72 cm are given for planning patio space.
• A 2,342 cm² cooking surface, the same as the Original 57 cm kettle.
• A rust-resistant powder coated finish is listed.

Good to know

• The listing does not describe the ash system or grate type.
• You pay for the edition styling rather than extra cooking features.