Weber Original Kettle 22"
BBQSource Score
Based on performance, value, and user satisfaction
The iconic charcoal kettle grill. A backyard classic since 1952.
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Quick Verdict
BBQSource Score: 95/100
The Weber Original Kettle is the greatest grill ever made. Period. At $139 it's the best value in outdoor cooking. If you've never grilled with charcoal, start here. If you have, you already know.
Who This Is For
- First-time charcoal grillers
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Small families and couples
- Anyone wanting authentic BBQ flavor
Who Should Avoid This
- No temperature gauge (sold separately)
- Those with very limited patio space
Top Strengths
- +Legendary reliability — built to last decades
- +Most affordable quality charcoal grill available
- +Huge accessory ecosystem
Weaknesses
- -No temperature gauge (sold separately)
- -Limited cooking area for large groups
- -Charcoal management requires practice
Bottom Line
At $139, the Weber Original Kettle 22" is a strong buy for first-time charcoal grillers.
Key Features
Who Is This Best For?
The Weber Original Kettle 22" is ideal for specific types of outdoor cooks. Here is who we recommend it for:
First-time charcoal grillers
Budget-conscious buyers
Small families and couples
Anyone wanting authentic BBQ flavor
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BBQSource Score: 95/100
Our BBQSource Score is calculated from hands-on testing, verified buyer sentiment analysis, spec comparison, and value-for-money assessment. A score of 95 means this is an exceptional product that we recommend without reservation.
Tested by BBQSource
Hands-on review by Mike Dawson, Founder & Head Reviewer
What We Cooked
$139 and it outlasted two gas grills. Porcelain enamel is flawless after 11 years. Nothing beats charcoal flavor.
No lid thermometer included. 363 sq in limits you to 4–5 people max before doing multiple batches.
About This Product
Here's the thing about the Weber Kettle: it's been $139 for years, it looks exactly the same as it did in 1952, and I genuinely cannot tell you it needs to be anything else. I've cooked on a Weber Kettle my entire adult life. Learned to grill on one at my dad's house. Bought my first one when I got my own place. My current one is 11 years old and it's fine. The porcelain enamel on the lid has zero chips or rust. The vents still move smoothly. The legs have never wobbled. $139 and it outlasted two gas grills I've also owned. Burgers and steaks are where you reach for the kettle first. High heat, direct flame, charcoal flavor — nothing reproduces this combination. For indirect smoking, you set up a two-zone fire and it works beautifully. I've done whole chickens, pork loins, and even a 14-lb brisket on this thing. The honest limitations: you don't get a thermometer with it (buy a Thermapen or clip a dial gauge into the vent hole). 363 sq in limits you to cooking for 4–5 people max before you're doing multiple batches. And yes, managing charcoal requires more attention than gas or pellets. But that's the tradeoff you make for the flavor, and it's worth it every single time.
Our Verdict
The Weber Original Kettle is the greatest grill ever made. Period. At $139 it's the best value in outdoor cooking. If you've never grilled with charcoal, start here. If you have, you already know.
What We Loved
There's something about charcoal flavor that gas and pellets just can't replicate. The smoky, slightly charred crust on chicken thighs from this grill is why we keep coming back to charcoal.
The build quality feels like it'll outlast us. The porcelain enamel is thick, the vents are smooth, and the ash catcher actually catches ash — not half of it like on cheaper kettles.
It's lighter than it looks. We can move this around the patio one-handed, which matters more than you'd think when you're rearranging for a party.
What Annoyed Us
Charcoal management takes practice. Your first few cooks will involve guessing at vent positions and fussing with the coals. It's part of the charm, but it's not for everyone.
There's no temperature gauge included. You'll need to buy a lid thermometer separately (about $15) or use an instant-read probe every time you check.
The cooking grate is plated steel, not cast iron. It works fine, but cast iron would hold heat better and create better sear marks. It's a minor cost-saving corner that Weber cut.
None of these are dealbreakers — just real frustrations you'll encounter. We mention them so you know exactly what you're getting into.
Cleanup & Maintenance
Real talk on keeping your Weber Original Kettle 22" in fighting shape. Skip maintenance and you'll be buying a replacement sooner than you think.
After-Use Cleanup
- 1Use the One-Touch cleaning system (if your grill has it) to sweep ash into the catcher. Empty the catcher when it's half full.
- 2Brush the grates clean while warm. For plated steel grates, a brass brush works best without scratching.
- 3Wipe the bowl interior with a damp cloth if there's grease buildup. The porcelain enamel resists most buildup naturally.
- 4Discard old charcoal that's been rained on. Wet charcoal doesn't burn evenly and can create excess ash.
Seasonal Maintenance
- Check the ash catcher for holes or cracks annually. Ash leaks make a mess and can stain your patio.
- Oil the vent wheels lightly if they get stiff. A drop of cooking oil keeps them turning smoothly.
- Store in a covered area or use a grill cover. The porcelain enamel is tough but the metal legs and vents will rust if exposed.
Pro Tip: After every cook, close all vents to snuff out the coals. This saves unburned charcoal for next time AND prevents accidental fires.
Value For Money
Let's talk dollars and sense. Is the Weber Original Kettle 22" actually worth $139?
Our Verdict
Exceptional value — buy it without hesitation.
Durability Expectation
Charcoal grills are basically immortal. We've seen 30-year-old Weber kettles still cooking like new. The porcelain enamel and thick steel last forever with minimal care.
How It Compares Price-Wise
At $139, this is one of the best values in outdoor cooking. The simplicity of charcoal means there's less to break."
Resale Value
Charcoal grills, especially Weber kettles, have cult status. A used kettle in decent shape sells for 60–70% of retail within days of posting.
Bottom line on value:
At $139 with a score of 95/100, this is a smart buy.
Alternatives Worth Considering
Not sure the Weber Original Kettle 22" is the one? Here are the other options we'd seriously consider in the same category.
The Char-Griller AKORN Kamado adds more cooking space and better vent control — if your budget stretches, it's worth the upgrade.
Want to see all Charcoal Grills side by side?
Browse all Charcoal GrillsRecommended Accessories
Gear we use alongside the Weber Original Kettle 22" for better results
How It Compares
Side-by-side specs vs. similar grills. Full comparison coming soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions based on our hands-on testing and verified buyer feedback.
With a BBQSource Score of 95/100 and a 4.8/5 star rating from 12,453 verified buyers, the Weber Original Kettle 22" is an exceptional investment for most backyard cooks. It's best for first-time charcoal grillers. At $139 (down from $169), it offers excellent value for the money.
Gas Grill Cluster
The convenience of propane with the flavor of fire. Your complete gas grilling ecosystem.
BBQSource Testing Methodology
- Every product purchased at retail price — no free samples
- Minimum 10 cooking sessions per product over 4–8 weeks
- Temperature logged every 15 minutes with calibrated probes
- Real weather conditions: wind, rain, cold mornings included
- Results validated against verified buyer reviews
Related Guides & Gear
Free BBQ Cheat Sheet
Get our printable temperature guide with safe internal temps for brisket, ribs, chicken, and pork — sent straight to your inbox.
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Our Final Take
The Weber Original Kettle is the greatest grill ever made. Period. At $139 it's the best value in outdoor cooking. If you've never grilled with charcoal, start here. If you have, you already know.
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