Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch Review

The Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch charcoal grill offers a blend of classic grilling and modern convenience, appealing to both seasoned grillers and newcomers. Its 22-inch cooking grate provides ample space, and the grill's design includes a sturdy steel frame and porcelain-enameled components for durability. Features like the Gourmet BBQ System grate, One-Touch cleaning system, and Electronic Touch-N-Go ignition enhance grilling versatility and ease of use. However, the grill's size may be cumbersome for small spaces, and the plastic components might not be as durable as the rest of the build.

In terms of performance, the grill excels with its temperature control and flexible cooking options, though it lacks the precision of gas grills. Cleaning is straightforward, thanks to the One-Touch system and removable ash catcher. Compared to competitors like Kamado Joe and Big Green Egg, the Weber offers a more affordable and mobile option, albeit with less heat efficiency. Overall, the Weber Performer Premium is a reliable choice for those seeking a functional and stylish charcoal grill with a few modern touches.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Weber Master Touch GBS E-5750 22 inch or Weber Master Touch Premium SE E-5775.

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If you're someone who loves the rich flavor of food grilled over charcoal, the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch might just be the barbecue you've been dreaming of. This grill is all about combining the classic charms of charcoal grilling with modern convenience, aimed at making your outdoor cooking experience just a bit more enjoyable and efficient.

With its sleek design and practical features, this grill caters to both seasoned grill masters and those just starting to explore the joys of outdoor cooking. The 22-inch diameter gives you ample space to cook for family and friends, while the additional features make grilling more than just a weekend hobby.

However, it's worth noting that this grill can take up quite a bit of space on your patio or backyard, which might be a minor drawback if you're tight on room. Also, like most charcoal grills, it requires a bit of patience to get the coals just right, which is part of the charm but can test your nerves if you're in a hurry.

Overall, the Weber Performer Premium offers an intriguing mix of tradition and innovation, promising an enjoyable grilling experience with just a few quirks that are typical of charcoal barbecues.

When talking about the design and build quality of the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch, the first impression is that it's built to last. The charcoal barbecue features a sturdy steel frame that feels solid and reliable. This is paired with a sleek, black porcelain-enameled bowl and lid, which not only look great but also offer excellent heat retention and resilience against rust and peeling.

The grill section is equipped with a 22-inch diameter cooking grate, providing ample space for grilling a variety of foods. Made from stainless steel, the grate is designed for durability and even heat distribution, ensuring your food is cooked to perfection. It's also compatible with Weber's Gourmet BBQ System (GBS), which allows the addition of other accessories like a pizza stone or wok, providing you with flexible cooking options.

What really stands out is the inclusion of a cart that combines functionality with style. The cart includes a metal table that offers a convenient prep surface and hooks for your grilling tools, keeping everything within arm’s reach. The table is robust enough to handle the weight of your grilling essentials without wobbling. One might question the plastic components, such as the weather-protected CharBin storage container. While they are practical for storing charcoal, they may not hold up as well over time compared to the rest of the grill's robust materials. However, the overall construction feels well thought out and reliable.

Additionally, the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch includes an integrated lid thermometer, which is a nice touch for keeping an eye on cooking temperatures without having to lift the lid constantly. The inclusion of a lid holder is another small yet practical feature that prevents the lid from being placed on the ground while handling food. In summary, the design and build quality of this barbecue are impressive, offering a balance of durability and functionality. While there are some concerns with the longevity of certain plastic parts, the overall build promises a reliable and enjoyable grilling experience.

Features and Performance The Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch is not just another grill in the neighborhood. It's actually quite special! For starters, it comes with the renowned Gourmet BBQ System grate. This nifty feature allows you to switch out the center section with various inserts like a pizza stone, wok, or sear grate, giving you a ton of versatility. So if you want to try making a pizza on your grill, you're all set. Speaking of versatility, the One-Touch cleaning system is a lifesaver. It uses a simple lever to sweep ash into the removable ash catcher. No more messy cleanups with this bad boy. Plus, the ash catcher is enclosed, so there's no risk of ash flying all over the place on a windy day.

The Electronic Touch-N-Go ignition system is another feature that stands out. It utilizes a simple push-button to ignite the charcoal with propane. This means you can skip the lighter fluid and get grilling faster. It's a touch of convenience that many traditional charcoal grills miss out on. Now, let's chat about space.

The grill includes a folding side table that provides ample room for prep work. It’s sturdy and offers a handy space for your marinades, sauces, and utensils. But, while the table is a major plus, it's not heat-resistant. You gotta be careful not to place hot items directly on it. Temperature control is key for a good barbecue, and the Weber Performer Premium does not disappoint. It has a built-in thermometer on the lid and easily adjustable dampers for maintaining the perfect cooking temperature. Whether you're slow-cooking ribs or searing steaks, you have control over the grill's heat. However, keep in mind that, as a charcoal grill, it doesn't provide the precise temperature control of a gas grill.

Those who prioritize exact temperatures might find it a bit challenging until they get used to the nuances of charcoal grilling. Overall, the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch boasts a range of features that elevate your grilling experience. While it has a couple of minor downsides, the performance and features it offers make it a worthwhile addition to any backyard barbecue session.

The ease of use for the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch is pretty impressive. It’s designed with the everyday griller in mind, making it straightforward even for barbecue beginners. Assembling the grill is a breeze with the clear instructions provided, taking roughly an hour from box to backyard.

Using the charcoal ignition system is a game-changer. You simply load the charcoal, press the electric start button, and you're off to the races. No more fumbling with lighter fluid or endless matches. Within minutes, you'll have a roaring fire ready to cook your favorite meals. You might wonder, does it feel a bit too easy? Well, it kind of is, and that’s a good thing.

The integrated lid holder is another thoughtful feature, allowing you to easily hang the lid on the side while attending to the food. This means no awkward placements or dirtied surfaces. The built-in thermometer on the lid is also quite handy, ensuring you get the temperature just right without having to guess.

However, some might find the size a bit bulky if they have limited space. Maneuvering the grill around a tight patio or small balcony might require a bit of finesse. Despite this, the grill's sturdy wheels do facilitate relatively smooth movement across different surfaces.

One thing that stands out is the ease of adjusting the airflow. The damper system works seamlessly, allowing you to control the cooking temperature without lifting the lid. It really simplifies temperature management and keeps the grilling process smooth.

Overall, the Performer Premium GBS 22 inch balances ease with functionality, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to elevate their charcoal grilling without jumping through hoops.

When you crack open the box of the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch, you'll find everything you need to get grilling in no time. Here's what's packed inside:

• 22-inch Charcoal Grill: The main attraction, of course, is the 22-inch grill, which offers ample cooking space for your BBQ feasts.
• Gourmet BBQ System (GBS) Cooking Grate: This grate is designed for versatility, allowing you to use various GBS inserts for different cooking methods.
• Porcelain-Enamelled Bowl and Lid: These components are not only durable but also help retain heat efficiently.
• Built-in Lid Thermometer: This handy feature helps you keep an eye on the internal temperature without lifting the lid.
• Charcoal Holder: There's a dedicated holder for your charcoal, making refueling during long cooking sessions a breeze.
• Removable, High-Capacity Ash Catcher: Keeping things tidy, this catcher makes ash disposal straightforward and less messy.
• One-Touch Cleaning System: It includes a lever that slides ash and debris into the catcher, simplifying the cleaning process.
• Convenient Work Table: A handy addition, the work table provides space for your tools, sauces, and other essentials.
• Assembly Instructions: You'll find a manual for assembling the grill, though some users find it a tad complex.

While the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch is well-equipped, it could benefit from more detailed assembly instructions or even some pre-assembly of certain components. Overall, though, it sure packs a punch in terms of value.

Keeping your charcoal barbecue clean and well-maintained is key to enjoying delicious grilled meals and ensuring your gear lasts longer. When it comes to the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch, maintenance is thankfully straightforward, though a bit of elbow grease is expected.

Cleaning After Use

After each grilling session, it's good practice to clean the cooking grate while it's still warm. The plated steel cooking grate can be brushed down with a stainless steel grill brush to remove food remnants and excess grease. This helps prevent the buildup of burnt residues that can affect the flavor of your food.

Ash Management

One of the great features of this model is the One-Touch Cleaning System. Just swipe the handle and the ash falls directly into a large-capacity, removable ash catcher. This makes ash disposal much less of a hassle compared to other models where you have to scoop ashes manually. However, be sure the ashes are completely cool before disposing of them to avoid any safety hazards.

Regular Maintenance

Every now and then, it's essential to give the inside of your grill a more thorough cleaning. This involves scraping any accumulated grease and grime from the inside of the lid and bowl. Using a mild soap solution and a soft cloth, wipe down the surfaces.

Potential Drawbacks

While the cleaning features are generally effective, the ash catcher can sometimes be a bit finicky to reattach after emptying. It's a minor inconvenience but worth mentioning if you're someone who prioritizes seamless maintenance.

Durability

Thanks to the porcelain-enameled bowl and lid, rust and peeling are much less of a concern. This makes the cleaning process simpler and keeps your barbecue looking shiny and new for longer. In summary, the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch is designed with user-friendly cleaning features, making it fairly easy to maintain. Regular care ensures that this trusty grill stays in tip-top shape, ready for your next cookout.

The charcoal barbecue market is packed with options, making it tough to choose the right one. Let's see how the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch stacks up against its competitors.

Kamado Joe Classic II

When comparing with the Kamado Joe Classic II, you'll notice a few differences. The Kamado Joe offers excellent heat retention due to its ceramic build, making it a fantastic choice for slow cooking and smoking. However, it is on the pricier side and significantly heavier, which might make mobility a concern. Meanwhile, the Weber is easier to move around and generally more affordable, though it lacks the extreme heat efficiency of ceramic grills.

Big Green Egg

The Big Green Egg is another heavyweight champion in the charcoal grill arena. Like the Kamado Joe, it boasts superior heat retention and versatility. It's great for both grilling and baking. However, the Big Green Egg comes at a premium price and requires additional purchases for a complete grilling setup. The Weber, on the other hand, provides a more inclusive package at a lower initial cost, making it a more budget-friendly option.

Char-Griller Akorn

The Char-Griller Akorn offers a more wallet-friendly approach to kamado grilling. It's made of steel instead of ceramic, which makes it lighter and less expensive. However, its durability and heat retention don’t match up to the ceramic models. The Weber Performer Premium, with its solid steel construction and integrated features, offers a good balance between cost, durability, and performance compared to the Akorn.

Conclusion

In summary, while the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch might not have the extreme heat capabilities of ceramic grills, it holds its own with excellent design and convenience at a more accessible price point. It is a great option for those who want a reliable, easy-to-use grill without breaking the bank.

In wrapping things up, the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch is a solid choice for anyone serious about their grilling game. It's not just any typical charcoal barbecue; it offers a great blend of functionality and style. The durable design means it'll stand up to plenty of grilling sessions, and the features it packs, like the built-in thermometer and One-Touch cleaning system, genuinely enhance the grilling experience.

Of course, no product is without its quirks. It's worth noting that the setup might feel a bit cumbersome if you're not used to assembling grills, but once you get past that hurdle, it's mostly smooth sailing. And while the addition of the Gourmet BBQ System is fantastic, some might find the accessories a bit pricey if you're looking to expand your grilling repertoire. Ultimately, if you're after a barbecue that combines tradition with modern features, the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch should definitely be on your radar. It's a grill that promises not just to cook your food but to elevate your grilling experience. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a seasoned pro, this grill is ready to serve up some delicious results.

Video by: KITCHEN & DINING

• Can I use charcoal briquettes with the Weber Performer Premium GBS 22 inch?
  Absolutely! This grill works well with both charcoal briquettes and lump charcoal. Briquettes are often preferred for their consistent burn and are generally cheaper. However, lump charcoal gives off more heat, resulting in a nice sear.
• How long does it take to assemble this grill?
  Assembly is fairly straightforward and usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour. The instructions are clear, but you'll want a second pair of hands to help with the larger parts. Make sure to have a screwdriver and a wrench handy.
• Is the grill large enough to cook for a big group?
  With its 22-inch diameter cooking grate, you can comfortably cook for a group of 4-6 people. If you're cooking for a larger crowd, you might need to cook in batches.
• How weather-resistant is the Weber Performer?
  The grill is built with durable materials like porcelain-enameled steel, making it quite resistant to rust and weather. However, it’s always a good idea to use a cover if you plan to leave it outside, especially in harsh weather conditions.
• Can I use it for smoking?
  You can definitely smoke with this grill by using the indirect cooking method. Place your charcoal on one side and the food on the other, adding a water pan for moisture. It’s not as efficient as a dedicated smoker, but it gets the job done for smaller smoking tasks.
• What is the GBS in the product name?
  GBS stands for Gourmet BBQ System, which means the grill has a special cooking grate that allows you to use various inserts, like a wok or pizza stone. It adds versatility, though these accessories are sold separately.
• How easy is it to clean the grill?
  Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the ash catcher and hinged cooking grate. Although the grill is not self-cleaning, regular maintenance will keep it in top shape. A quick brush of the grate after each use is usually sufficient.

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