Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This weber weber performer 22 inch smart review covers a charcoal grill that blends traditional fuel with modern automation. The unit features a 22-inch cooking diameter and a digital fan system. These two specs define its operation. The fan regulates airflow to maintain temperature automatically. You can monitor and adjust settings remotely via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The porcelain-enameled bowl retains heat well. This model offers a hybrid approach. You get the smoky flavor of charcoal with the convenience of smart controls. It is designed for outdoor cooking in standard patio or yard spaces.
What stands out
- Digital fan automatically regulates charcoal airflow for precise temperature control.
- LCD Wi-Fi controller allows remote monitoring and adjustment via the Weber Connect App.
- Rapidfire Assist mode stokes charcoal for faster preheating without a chimney starter.
- Built-in probe ports and included food sensor prevent overcooking.
- Hand-applied porcelain-enameled finish resists rust and corrosion.
Who it fits
Good fit for
You will like this grill if you want charcoal flavor without the guesswork. The automated fan handles temperature regulation, which helps you hold steady heat for slow cooks. The app alerts you when to add charcoal or flip food. This suits busy cooks who need remote monitoring. The 22-inch grate size fits family meals. You can also use it manually like a traditional kettle if you prefer to skip the tech. It is ideal for those who value convenience and consistent results.
Who should skip it
Skip this model if you prefer gas or pellet grills. This unit requires charcoal management, including loading fuel and handling ash. The 72-pound weight and 40.3-inch width demand a sturdy, flat outdoor surface. You may not have room for it on small balconies or tight patios. If you want zero maintenance or instant ignition without charcoal, look elsewhere. This grill is for those willing to manage fuel for better flavor.
Verdict: The Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Grill combines charcoal flavor with automated temperature control. It is best for cooks who want convenience without sacrificing smoky taste.
Key specs explained for this grill
Fuel Type: Charcoal
This grill burns charcoal, not gas or pellets. You manage the fuel source yourself, which many outdoor cooks prefer for flavor. Unlike gas griddles, charcoal requires lighting and ash cleanup. You need space for charcoal storage and bags. This fuel type suits buyers who want traditional smoky taste and do not mind manual fuel management.
Color: Black
The unit has a black finish. Black surfaces absorb heat well and hide soot from charcoal use. This color blends with most outdoor kitchens. It requires occasional cleaning to remove grease and ash residue. Black finishes are standard for charcoal grills. This option suits buyers who want a classic look that matches traditional kettle grills and outdoor cooking stations.
Width: 40.3 inches
The grill is 40.3 inches wide. This width determines how much counter space you need on your patio or deck. It is wider than many portable griddles. You must ensure your outdoor area has enough clearance for the lid to open. This size suits larger families or entertainers who need space for multiple items simultaneously.
Height: 45 inches
The unit stands 45 inches tall. This height affects ergonomic comfort when cooking. You may not need to bend as much as with lower grills. It also impacts storage space under the lid. Compare this to lower profile griddles that require more bending. This height suits taller users or those who prefer an upright cooking posture for better airflow access.
Weight: 72 pounds
The grill weighs 72 pounds. This weight indicates a sturdy build but requires a solid surface. You cannot easily move it like a small portable griddle. It needs a permanent spot on a patio or deck. This weight suits buyers who prioritize stability and heat retention over portability. It also suggests durable materials that withstand outdoor weather conditions.
Design and build details
The listing describes a black porcelain-enameled finish on both the lid and bowl. This coating is hand-applied to improve heat retention. It also resists scratching, rust, and corrosion. You benefit from a surface that withstands high temperatures and remains easy to clean during routine maintenance.
Size is substantial for outdoor placement. The unit measures 40.3 inches wide, 28 inches long, and 45 inches tall. It weighs 72 pounds. These dimensions require a stable, flat surface that can support the load. The height allows for comfortable standing operation without excessive bending. The width accommodates the 22-inch cooking diameter mentioned in other sections.
Controls are integrated into an intuitive LCD controller. This screen is Wi-Fi enabled for remote monitoring via the Weber Connect App. You can set grill temperature, monitor food probes, and set timers from your phone. Bluetooth wireless technology is also included for local connectivity. The design includes two built-in probe ports and one included food probe. This layout lets you track internal food temperature directly. The digital fan sits inside to regulate airflow automatically. You can also use the grill manually like a traditional kettle if you prefer not to use smart features.
Setup and everyday use
Setting up this Weber Performer involves assembling a unit that weighs 72 pounds and measures 45 inches in height. You place it outdoors, where its 40.3-inch width and 28-inch length require adequate clearance. The porcelain-enameled finish is durable, so you do not need special care during initial setup beyond standard assembly.
Everyday use centers on the smart controller. You connect the grill via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to the Weber Connect App on your phone. This allows you to set temperatures, monitor food probes, and set timers remotely. The digital fan regulates charcoal airflow automatically. You can raise, lower, or hold temperatures without constant manual adjustment. The Rapidfire Assist mode helps preheat the grill quickly by stoking the charcoal, reducing the need for a chimney starter.
You can monitor two food probes through the built-in ports. The app sends alerts for fuel levels and cooking tasks, such as flipping or serving. This system minimizes guesswork during cooking. If you prefer a traditional approach, you can use the grill manually like a standard kettle. The smart features remain optional. The porcelain-enameled bowl and lid retain heat effectively, supporting even crisping and browning. You manage charcoal refills through app alerts, ensuring consistent performance. The design supports both automated precision and manual control, adapting to your preferred cooking style without requiring complex calibration.
Before you buy this grill
This Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Grill stands apart from standard pizza ovens and griddles by combining traditional charcoal fuel with automated temperature control. You must ensure your outdoor space can accommodate its 40.3-inch width and 45-inch height. The unit weighs 72 pounds, so a stable, level surface is essential for safe operation. Unlike electric pizza ovens, this grill requires you to manage charcoal storage and ash disposal. You should also verify that your smartphone supports the required Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections for the Weber Connect App. The porcelain-enameled finish demands occasional cleaning to maintain its rust-resistant properties. While other options in this guide may offer faster heat-up times or different cooking styles, this model suits those who want precise temperature management for charcoal cooking. You benefit from automated airflow regulation, which simplifies the grilling process. Check that your deck or patio can support the weight and dimensions before purchase.
Check before you buy
- Verify your outdoor space fits the 40.3-inch width and 45-inch height.
- Ensure your patio surface is level and supports 72 pounds.
- Confirm your phone supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for app control.
- Check if you have space for charcoal storage and ash disposal.
The product at a glance
Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Grill
Best for: Automated charcoal temperature control
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Form Factor
- Cart
- Placement
- Outdoor
- Features
- Side Shelf
- Style
- Kettle
- Dimensions
- 28 × 40.3 × 45 inches
View on Amazon: Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Grill Affiliate link
This Weber Performer is a 22-inch charcoal grill with a digital fan and Wi-Fi controller. It measures 40.3 by 28 inches and weighs 72 pounds. The porcelain-enameled bowl retains heat well. You can monitor food with one included probe. The app alerts you when to add charcoal or flip food. It suits you if you want automated temperature control for consistent results.
Pros
- Digital fan regulates airflow to reach and hold temperatures automatically.
- LCD controller and app allow remote monitoring via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
- Porcelain-enameled finish resists rust and corrosion for easy cleaning.
- Rapidfire Assist mode preheats the grill quickly without a chimney starter.
Cons
- Weighs 72 pounds, making it heavy and bulky to move.
- Requires Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for full smart features.
- Includes only one food probe despite having two built-in ports.
Good fit if
- You want automated charcoal temperature management without constant tending.
- You prefer monitoring cooking progress remotely from your phone.
- You have space for a 40-inch wide outdoor grill.
Skip if
- You need to grill indoors or in small enclosed spaces.
- You prefer manual charcoal control without digital assistance.
- You want to monitor multiple foods simultaneously with included probes.
Verdict: Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Grill fits you if you value automated temperature regulation and remote monitoring for consistent charcoal cooking results.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Grill |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Charcoal |
| Form Factor | Cart |
| Placement | Outdoor |
| Features | Side Shelf |
| Style | Kettle |
| Dimensions | 28 × 40.3 × 45 inches |
| Weight | 72 pounds |
| Color | Black |
| Model | 1501870 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best use case for the Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Grill?
This grill is best for cooks who want automated temperature control with charcoal. It uses a digital fan to regulate airflow, keeping heat steady without manual adjustments. You get consistent results for slow smoking or direct grilling. The 22-inch diameter provides ample space for large cuts of meat or multiple items at once.
How large is the Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Grill?
The unit measures 40.3 inches in width, 28 inches in length, and 45 inches in height. It weighs 72 pounds, making it a substantial piece of outdoor equipment. You need a flat, stable surface outdoors to support this weight. The footprint requires adequate clearance for safe operation and airflow around the base.
Does the Weber Performer use gas or charcoal?
It burns charcoal, not gas or propane. You manage the fuel source yourself, lighting the charcoal and handling ash cleanup. This traditional fuel choice appeals to those who prefer the flavor profile of wood smoke. The smart fan system then manages the burn rate, removing the guesswork from maintaining a specific temperature range.
What color is the Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Grill?
The grill features a black finish. This color is part of the porcelain-enameled coating on the lid and bowl. The coating is hand-applied to enhance heat retention and durability. It resists scratching, rust, and corrosion, helping the unit withstand outdoor conditions while maintaining a classic, dark aesthetic on your patio or deck.
Is the Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Grill suitable for small spaces?
No, it is not ideal for tight spaces. Its width of 40.3 inches and height of 45 inches require significant outdoor clearance. You must place it in an area that can accommodate its 28-inch length. The 72-pound weight also means it is not designed for frequent moving or storage in compact areas.
What model number is the Weber Performer 22-Inch Smart Charcoal Grill?
The model number is 1501870. This identifier helps you locate the correct parts, manuals, or replacement components for your specific unit. It distinguishes this smart charcoal grill from other Weber Performer series models. You can reference this number when contacting support or checking compatibility for accessories.