Affiliate disclosure: This post contains Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Gas grills are convenient. Push a button, turn a dial, grill a burger. But something’s missing. That smoky flavor, that primal satisfaction, that connection to cooking over fire.
Charcoal grilling isn’t harder—it’s different. And no charcoal grill does it better than the Weber Kettle.
Our verdict: The Weber Original Kettle 22" is the best charcoal grill for anyone ready to discover what real grilling tastes like. The design hasn’t changed much since 1952 because it didn’t need to.
Our Pick: Weber Original Kettle Premium 22"
Quick take: 22" diameter provides 363 sq inches of cooking space, porcelain-enameled bowl and lid for durability, one-touch cleaning system, hinged grate for adding charcoal, and the legendary Weber shape that creates perfect convection airflow.
Best for:
- Anyone wanting real grilled flavor
- Backyard cooks ready to level up from gas
- Beginner charcoal users (forgiving to learn on)
- Budget-conscious grillers wanting quality
Skip if:
- Convenience is paramount (gas is easier)
- You grill rarely (charcoal requires commitment)
- You need huge capacity (Weber makes larger options)
Why the Weber Kettle Has Lasted 70 Years
The Shape Is Engineering Genius
The spherical kettle shape isn’t just iconic—it creates perfect airflow. Hot air rises around food, reflects off the lid, and circulates evenly. No hot spots, no cold zones.
This is why a $219 Weber cooks better than $500 barrel grills. The physics work.
Temperature Control That Works
Two vents—bottom for intake, top for exhaust—give you precision heat control:
- Wide open: 500°F+ for searing
- Half closed: 350°F for roasting
- Barely cracked: 225°F for smoking
Master the vents, master the grill.
Build Quality That Lasts Decades
Porcelain-enameled steel resists rust and won’t burn through. Weber owners regularly report 15-20 years of use with basic care. Your grill will outlast several gas grills at the same price point.
Two-Zone Cooking
Place coals on one side, leave the other empty. Direct heat for searing, indirect for roasting. One grill, multiple cooking methods, infinite possibilities.
The Honest Downsides
Charcoal Requires Effort
You’ll wait 15-20 minutes for coals to ash over. You’ll manage vents during cooking. You’ll clean ash afterward. This is the trade-off for superior flavor.
Weather Affects Cooking
Cold, wind, and rain change heat dynamics. You’ll learn to adapt, but it’s more variable than gas. Consider a windbreak for your setup.
No Built-In Thermometer
The Premium model includes a thermometer, but base models don’t. An instant-read thermometer is essential either way.
Ash Cleanup Required
The one-touch cleaning system helps, but you’re still dealing with ash. Empty it before each use to maintain airflow.
Who Should Buy the Weber Kettle
Perfect for you if:
- Flavor is your priority
- You’ll use it regularly (weekly or more)
- You enjoy the grilling process, not just the result
- Budget is under $250
Consider alternatives if:
- Convenience matters most (gas grill)
- You need set-and-forget (pellet smoker)
- You want massive capacity (larger Weber or offset)
How It Compares
| Feature | Weber Kettle 22" | Weber Spirit E-310 (Gas) | Char-Griller Akorn |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $219 | $529 | $369 |
| Fuel | Charcoal | Propane | Charcoal |
| Flavor | Excellent | Good | Excellent |
| Convenience | Moderate | High | Low |
| Lifespan | 15-20 years | 10-15 years | 10+ years |
The Bottom Line
The Weber Original Kettle 22" is the grill that changed backyard cooking—and it’s still the best charcoal grill for most people. The learning curve is real, but the flavor payoff is worth every minute of practice.
Your grandfather grilled on one. Your grandchildren can too.
