Weber Grill 18 vs 22 – Which Size Delivers the Better Experience?

A backyard cookout deserves the right grill. Weber’s 18 and 22-inch charcoal models bring solid heat, great flavor, and trusted durability. Still, their size difference sparks one big question does the extra space on the 22 offer more than just room for burgers?

Or does the compact 18 bring better control for small gatherings? Grill masters often lean toward one size for a reason. The 18-inch version fits tighter spaces, heats up faster, and uses less charcoal.

The 22-inch model handles more food, spreads heat wider, and supports two-zone cooking with ease. Each grill has strengths that match different cooking styles, crowd sizes, and backyard setups.

This comparison breaks down the key differences. From cooking surface to fuel efficiency, it covers the real impact of grill size so you can pick the one that suits your BBQ style best.

Weber Grill 18 vs Weber Grill 22

Weber charcoal grills are trusted around the world. Two popular models are the Weber 18 and Weber 22. Both look similar and work in the same way. But the size difference changes how much you can cook and how you grill.

This article compares the Weber 18 and Weber 22 in simple language. You’ll see the details, the features, and the good and bad sides of both. At the end, you’ll find a clear comparison, helpful FAQs, and a short conclusion to help you choose the right one.

Weber Original Kettle 18 Inch Charcoal Grill

The Weber 18 is the smaller of the two. It holds up to 9 burgers at once using the Weber burger press. The grill bowl and lid are made of porcelain-enamel. That helps keep heat inside and prevents rust or peeling over time.

It also has a One-Touch cleaning system. With a simple push, you can sweep ash into the bottom catcher. The dampers let you control the air inside, so you can change the cooking temperature as needed.

Features

• Holds up to 9 burgers

• Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl

• One-Touch ash cleaning system

• Durable plated steel cooking grate

• Dampers for heat control

• Lid hook to hang the lid while cooking

What Is the Good?

• Heats up quickly

• Easy to clean ash with the One-Touch system

• Great for small families or solo grilling

• Solid build with rust-free design

• Small and easy to move or store

• Simple air control with dampers

What Is the Bad?

• Limited cooking space

• No built-in thermometer

• Not ideal for large meals

• No extra space for indirect cooking

• Grate does not have a hinged section

Overall Opinion

The Weber 18 is perfect for quick meals. It fits small patios, balconies, or tight outdoor spaces. It’s easy to clean, simple to use, and built to last. Best for people who cook for one to three people.

Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill

The Weber 22 is a step up in size. It holds up to 13 burgers using the Weber press. Like the 18, it uses a porcelain-enameled bowl and lid to hold heat and stop rust. The One-Touch cleaning system is also included.

This model gives you more room to grill larger items like whole chickens or multiple steaks. You also get the same lid hook, steel grate, and dampers for air control.

Features

• Holds up to 13 burgers

• Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl

• One-Touch ash cleaning system

• Durable plated steel cooking grate

• Lid hook to avoid placing the lid on the ground

• Dampers for easy temperature control

What Is the Good?

• Bigger cooking surface

• Cooks more food at once

• Easy ash cleanup

• Strong and rust-resistant design

• Great for families or small parties

• Simple to adjust heat

What Is the Bad?

• Bigger body takes more space

• Heavier than the 18

• Still no built-in thermometer

• No hinged grate for easy coal access

• Can be overkill for 1–2 people

Overall Opinion

The Weber 22 offers more space and the same strong build. It fits well for families, gatherings, or weekend BBQs. It’s still simple to use and doesn’t take long to learn. Great for anyone who grills more than once a week.

Detailed Comparison  for Weber 18 vs Weber 22

Both grills have the same design, build, and main features. They use porcelain-enamel to keep heat inside and stop rust. Both have the One-Touch system, steel grates, and adjustable dampers.

The real difference is size. The Weber 18 has a smaller grill area. It holds up to 9 burgers and fits tight spaces. It’s lighter and easier to carry or store. It’s best for single users or couples who grill small meals.

The Weber 22 gives you more space. You can cook 13 burgers at once, or fit big items like ribs or whole chickens. The larger bowl also allows better heat control for indirect cooking.

It’s great for regular grilling and weekend BBQs with friends or family. The 18 is better for casual users or small areas. The 22 fits those who need more room and grill more often.

FAQs

Is the Weber 22 worth the extra size?

Yes, if you cook for more than two people or want to grill larger items. It gives you more space and flexibility.

Do both models have the same cleaning system?

Yes. Both use the One-Touch system to sweep ash into the catcher below.

Can I grill the same food on both?

Yes. You can cook the same food on both, but the 22 lets you cook more at once or grill bigger pieces.

Do either of them come with a thermometer?

No. You’ll need to buy a thermometer separately if you want to check the temperature without opening the lid.

Are both grills portable?

Yes. The 18 is easier to carry. The 22 is still movable, but heavier and takes more space.

Conclusion

The Weber 18 and Weber 22 both offer solid quality, good heat control, and easy cleanup. The 18 is best for small meals and tight spaces. The 22 works better for bigger groups and longer cooking sessions.

Pick the Weber 18 for quick, small grilling. Choose the Weber 22 for more space and more grilling power. Both will serve you well. The right choice depends on how often you grill and how many people you feed.