Weber Q1400 Review
The Weber Q1400 electric grill is perfect for urban grill enthusiasts. Compact yet feature-rich, it offers convenience and flavor without compromise. Ideal for small spaces!
check best priceSummary / TL;DR
The Weber Q1400 is an electric barbecue designed for those who need an efficient grilling solution in compact spaces like balconies or small patios. Its sleek design and durable cast aluminum build make it a practical choice for urban dwellers. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates provide even heat distribution, ensuring well-cooked meals, although their weight might be cumbersome for some users. While the grill heats up in about 20 minutes, its cooking area of 189 square inches is best suited for small gatherings.
Temperature control is a highlight, offering precise adjustments, though the electric nature may not satisfy those craving traditional smoky flavors. The grill's portability is a plus, but the need for an electrical outlet can limit location flexibility. Cleaning is straightforward, with removable parts aiding maintenance, though the drip tray may require frequent emptying during extended use.
Compared to competitors, the Weber Q1400 stands out for its durability and reliable performance, despite lacking some advanced features. It's a solid choice for those prioritizing simplicity and efficiency in an electric barbecue.
If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Weber Lumin or Weber Pulse 2000 or Weber Pulse 1000.
Where to buy
Best offers of the Weber Q1400 at Amazon.com
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Introduction
The Weber Q1400 is an electric barbecue that's been turning heads for its efficiency and convenience. Perfect for those who love grilling but live in places where gas or charcoal grills aren't practical, like urban apartments or condos. This electric grill offers a great alternative without sacrificing the flavor that BBQ enthusiasts crave. What makes this grill stand out is its compact size and sleek design, which means it can fit into tight spaces, from balconies to small patios. Despite its small stature, it's big on features and performance, making it a popular choice among city dwellers.
But, it ain't all sunshine and rainbows. Some users might find the electric nature a bit limiting if they're used to that smokey flavor from traditional grills. Nevertheless, the Weber Q1400 promises a hassle-free cooking experience with minimal setup and maintenance, making it a worthy contender in the electric barbecue market.
Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of the Weber Q1400 is a blend of modern aesthetics and practical functionality. It sports a sleek, compact design that easily fits onto any balcony or terrace, perfect for those with limited space. The body is constructed with cast aluminum, which not only makes it lightweight but also durable and resistant to rust. This is a BBQ built to last through many grilling seasons.
The grill's cooking grates are made from porcelain-enameled cast iron, which does an excellent job of retaining and distributing heat evenly. This means you'll get those perfect grill marks every time, and it can handle various types of food from veggies to steaks. However, be prepared for a bit of weight when handling these grates—they are sturdy but heavy.
The Weber Q1400 features an ergonomic design with large handles on both sides, making it easy to move around when needed. The control knobs are conveniently placed on the front, giving users easy access without having to reach over a hot grill. The lid, also made from cast aluminum, is well-balanced and includes a heat-resistant handle, ensuring safe operation during cooking.
Overall, the build quality feels robust and thoughtfully put together. However, it's worth noting that some users have mentioned the grill's power cord is a bit short, which might require an extension cord depending where your power outlet is located. Additionally, while the compact size is a benefit for small spaces, it does limit the cooking area somewhat, so large gatherings might require multiple rounds of grilling.

Performance and Cooking Experience
The performance and cooking experience with the Weber Q1400 is something many BBQ enthusiasts will appreciate. This electric barbecue provides a consistent cooking performance that’s perfect for both newbies and seasoned grillers. The cast-iron grates are porcelain-enameled, which helps in retaining heat and delivering those classic grill marks we all love. Plus, these grates make sure your food cooks evenly across the surface.
When it comes to heat-up time, the Weber Q1400 does not disappoint. It reaches cooking temperature in just about 20 minutes, which is reasonably quick for an electric grill. This means you won't have to wait too long before you get those burgers sizzling. However, if you're someone who prefers charcoal's intense heat, you might find this grill a tad slower in comparison.
The cooking area of 189 square inches might sound limited, but it’s surprisingly adequate for small gatherings or family meals. You can easily fit six burgers or a couple of steaks with some veggies on the side. This size might be restrictive for larger parties, but it's perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a small backyard get-together.
One aspect where the Weber Q1400 truly shines is in its ability to maintain a steady temperature. The infinite heat control settings let you tweak the temperature with precision, ensuring your food cooks just the way you want it. Whether you're searing a steak or slow-cooking some veggies, you’ll find it delivers a reliable performance every time.
While the flavor from an electric barbecue might not completely match that of a traditional charcoal grill, the Q1400 does a commendable job of infusing a nice grilled taste into your meals. The absence of smoke might be a downside for some, but for others, it’s a blessing—especially when grilling indoors or on a balcony where smoke might be a concern.
Overall, the grilling experience with this BBQ strikes a good balance between ease of use and performance. It might not replicate the full experience of charcoal grilling, but its convenience and consistency make it a worthwhile companion for any aspiring grill master.

Temperature Control and Heating
The temperature control and heating capabilities of an electric barbecue are essential for achieving that perfect grill mark and juicy bite. The Weber Q1400 doesn't disappoint in this area, offering a solid performance that will please both beginners and seasoned grillers.
The electric grill is equipped with a powerful 1560-watt heating element. This ensures even heat distribution across its cast-iron grates, which means no more hotspots or cold spots—you're getting consistent cooking results every time. Whether you're grilling steaks, chicken, or vegetables, you can be confident that your food will cook evenly.
One of the standout features here is the infinite heat control settings. It allows you to adjust the temperature with precision, giving you the flexibility to sear your meats at high temperatures or keep your veggies at a gentle simmer. This level of control is particularly beneficial for those who like to experiment with different cooking techniques.
However, it’s worth mentioning that electric grills, including this one, often take a bit longer to heat up compared to their gas or charcoal counterparts. If you're used to the instant high heat of gas grills, you might need to adjust your expectations slightly. Once heated, though, the Weber Q1400 maintains its temperature quite well, making it reliable during those longer grilling sessions.
Overall, the temperature control and heating of the Weber Q1400 make it a reliable companion for most grilling tasks. While it might take a little patience to reach the desired temperature, its consistent performance once there makes it a worthy choice for electric grill enthusiasts.
Portability and Storage
The portability of the Weber Q1400 is quite a highlight for those who love grilling on the go. Its compact design allows for easy transportation, making it a stellar choice for small outdoor gatherings or a picnic in the park. Weighing around 29 pounds, it's light enough for most people to carry without breaking a sweat. Plus, it easily fits in most car trunks. Storage is another area where this grill shines. Its modest footprint means it won't gobble up space on your patio or balcony. The side tables are foldable, which helps reduce the overall storage space required. If you're tight on space, you'll appreciate how easily it can be tucked away.
However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. While it’s portable, you still need access to a power outlet, which might limit your location options. Also, there's no built-in storage for accessories, so you'll have to find a separate spot for those tongs and spatulas.
In summary, the Weber Q1400 offers a good balance of portability and storage convenience, making it a solid choice for both home use and adventures. Just remember to plan for power access and utensil storage!

What's in the Box
Curious about what you get when you purchase the Weber Q1400? Let’s take a peek inside the box. First up, you'll find the fully-assembled electric barbecue unit itself, which is a nice touch since you won't have to fiddle around with tiny screws or perplexing assembly instructions. Also included is a 6-foot grounded cord, which is pretty decent but might limit your placement options if you don't have an outlet nearby. You might want to have an extension cord handy, especially if you plan to grill outdoors.
The package comes with a removable catch pan. This is essential for catching drips and spills, making your cleaning process easier—though, do keep in mind it's on the smaller side. If you tend to grill juicy meats, checking and emptying it often might be necessary.
You’ll also find the cast-iron cooking grates, which come porcelain-enameled for easy cleaning and heat retention. These are quite heavy, so handle with care to avoid any accidents.
Lastly, there's a straightforward user manual to guide you through the setup and maintenance. It's pretty simple to follow, but don’t expect any fancy recipe ideas here.
All in all, the box contains just what you need to get started, though a few extras like a cover or stand would have been nice additions. What's your take—would you add anything else to this package?
Cleaning and Maintenance
The cleaning and maintenance of the Weber Q1400 is pretty straightforward, which is always a plus when you're dealing with electric barbecues. The grill grates are made from cast iron and coated with porcelain enamel, so they’re rust-resistant and fairly easy to clean. After your cooking session, just let them cool down a bit and you can give them a scrub with a grill brush to get rid of any food residue.
One thing to keep in mind is that while the grates are robust, they can be a bit heavy. If you're not used to it, handling them can feel a bit awkward. But once you get the hang of it, it's not much of a biggie.
The drip tray is another part of the barbecue that could use some regular attention. It's disposable, so all you need to do is check it after each use and replace it when needed. This simple task helps prevent any buildup that could affect performance.
Now, let’s talk about the exterior. The aluminum body is easy to maintain; just wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild detergent when necessary. It's best to avoid harsh chemicals as they can damage the finish.
As for the heating element, you generally don't need to do much except ensure it’s free of any debris. It’s designed to sit snugly below the cooking surface, minimizing the risk of food bits falling onto it.
In summary, keeping the Q1400 in tip-top shape doesn't require much effort. Regularly cleaning the grates and drip tray will ensure it stays efficient for years to come. And if you're consistent with maintenance, you can expect a long and happy grilling life with this electric barbecue.

Competitor Comparison
The electric barbecue market is buzzing with options, and the Weber Q1400 has some strong contenders to measure up against. Let's take a look at how it stacks up against a few popular competitors.
George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
One of the primary competitors is the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill. This model is known for its versatility as it can be used both indoors and outdoors. It's got a slightly larger cooking surface than the Weber Q1400, making it suitable for larger gatherings. However, it doesn’t quite hit the mark when it comes to temperature control. The George Foreman grill has a fixed temperature setting, which can limit your cooking options compared to the adjustable temperature feature of the Weber.
Char-Broil Patio Bistro Electric Grill
The Char-Broil Patio Bistro offers another interesting comparison. It's often praised for its TRU-Infrared cooking system, which aims to provide even heat distribution, reducing flare-ups. While the cooking power is impressive, the Char-Broil tends to require a bit more patience in maintenance and cleaning due to its complex design. On the portability front, the Weber Q1400 edges ahead thanks to its compact build and ease of storage, perfect for those with limited space.
Cuisinart CEG-980 Outdoor Electric Grill
Then we have the Cuisinart CEG-980, a model that focuses heavily on portability. It's super lightweight and easy to carry, which makes it a darling for campers. Though it's portable, it lacks the robust build quality and premium feel of the Weber Q1400. The heating capability also doesn’t quite match up, often needing longer preheat times. If you're looking for consistent performance, the Weber's efficient heating element often delivers quicker and more even cooking results.
Overall, while each competitor brings its own unique advantages to the table, the Weber Q1400 remains a solid choice for those prioritizing durability, temperature control, and a blend of both indoor and outdoor cooking capabilities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Weber Q1400 electric barbecue is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a compact and efficient grilling solution. Its design and build quality offer durability and a sleek look that fits well in any setting, whether it's your balcony or small backyard. The standout feature is undoubtedly its performance, providing an impressive cooking experience with its reliable heating elements and even heat distribution.
While the temperature control offers decent precision, some users might find the heat-up time could be a tad faster. It's a minor trade-off considering the overall ease of use and consistent results.
Regarding portability, the grill is relatively easy to move around, although its weight might be a concern if you plan to transport it frequently. Storage is straightforward, and it doesn't demand much space, which is a big plus for those tight on room.
Cleaning and maintenance of the Weber Q1400 are hassle-free, thanks to its removable parts and straightforward design. However, if you're someone who grills often, you might wish the drip pan was a bit bigger to accommodate longer cooking sessions without frequent emptying.
Compared to other models in its price range, the Q1400 stands out with its robust build and reliable cooking performance. Though it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it delivers where it matters most: flavorful and evenly cooked meals. For those who prioritize simplicity and efficiency, this electric barbecue is a solid choice that won't disappoint.
FAQ
- How much cooking space does this electric barbecue offer?
The Weber Q1400 provides about 189 square inches of cooking area, which is ample for small family gatherings or a couple of friends. You might find it a bit tight if you're planning a large party, though. - Can I use it indoors?
It's not recommended to use the Weber Q1400 indoors. Like many electric barbecues, it should be used in well-ventilated outdoor spaces to avoid smoke accumulation and to ensure safety. - Is the grill easy to clean?
Yes, cleaning is relatively straightforward. The removable catch pan makes for an easy cleanup, but do remember that the grill grates need regular maintenance to prevent buildup. - Does it heat up quickly?
The Weber Q1400 heats up fairly quickly, usually within 15 minutes. However, the heating might sometimes feel a tad uneven, so it's good to preheat thoroughly for consistent results. - How portable is it?
It's designed for portability with its compact size and lightweight build. However, the absence of foldable legs or wheels means it might not be as easy to move around as some other models. - What kind of power outlet does it require?
The electric grill uses a standard 110-volt power outlet. Be sure you have access to an outdoor electrical source or an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. - Are there any accessories included?
Typically, the package includes the grill itself and a removable catch pan. Optional accessories like a griddle or stand are sold separately, so factor that into your budget if you need them.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Compact and sleek design
- Durable cast aluminum body
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates
- Infinite heat control settings
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Limited cooking area
- Short power cord
- Heavier grates
- Lacks smokey flavor
Technical specifications
Product Name | Weber Q1400 Electric Grill |
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Manufacturer | Weber-Stephen Products LLC |
Model Number | Q1400 |
Type | Electric Grill |
Dimensions | 14.5" H x 27" W x 16.5" D |
Weight | 29 lbs |
Cooking Area | 189 square inches |
Power Source | Electric |
Power Rating | 1560 watts / 120 volts |
Material | Cast aluminum lid and body |
Grate Material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron |
Temperature Control | Infinite heat control settings |
Heating Element | Stainless steel |
Power Cord Length | 6 feet |
Color | Dark Gray |
Features | Removable catch pan, ergonomic side handles, sturdy front and rear cradles |
Warranty | 5 years (limited) |
Assembly Required | Yes |
Usage | Outdoor use only |
Safety Certifications | UL Certified |
Included Accessories | Owner's manual |
Optional Accessories | Grill cover, stand, griddle |
Country of Origin | USA |