Grill size changes everything from how much food hits the grate to how evenly heat flows. Weber’s 22 and 26-inch charcoal grills both promise smoky flavor and classic design, but they don’t serve the same needs.

The 22-inch model fits smaller patios, costs less, and handles everyday cookouts with ease. The 26-inch version steps up with extra room, more heat control, and better support for large gatherings.

Some grillers prefer quick setups and lighter gear, while others want serious space for ribs, roasts, and multi-zone cooking. Each model brings something different to the table, literally. Deciding between them starts with understanding how each one handles heat, fuel, and food volume.

One size doesn’t always fit all, and the choice often depends on cooking style, crowd size, and storage space. Dive into this comparison to find out which grill turns your backyard into a flavor-packed hot spot.

Weber 22 vs Weber 26 Charcoal Grill

Weber charcoal grills are known for their strong build and tasty results. Two popular models the Weber 22 and Weber 26 both bring quality, but in different ways. The 22 is the classic size.

The 26 is the bigger version with a few added features. This guide breaks down both models in simple terms. You’ll get clear answers, honest pros and cons, and help choosing the one that works for your grilling style.

Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill

 

The Weber 22 is the classic round charcoal grill. It holds up to 13 burgers at once, making it a solid pick for small families or weekend grilling. The body is made of porcelain-coated steel, which keeps heat in and doesn’t rust.

It comes with a One-Touch cleaning system that moves ashes into a bottom tray. The grill has dampers for heat control, a lid hook, and a strong cooking grate that’s easy to clean.

Features

• Holds up to 13 burgers

• One-Touch ash cleaning system

• Porcelain-enameled bowl and lid

• Lid hook keeps lid off the ground

• Dampers to control temperature

• Plated steel cooking grate

What Is the Good?

• Fast cleanup with the ash sweeper

• Classic shape with a simple setup

• Lid holds heat well and doesn’t peel

• Compact size fits most patios

• Easy to move and store

What Is the Bad?

• No thermometer on the lid

• Small cooking surface for big parties

• No warming rack or extra space

• Basic grate without side flip-ups

• No tool hooks or storage

Overall Opinion

The Weber 22 is a strong, simple grill. It works well for small families or new grillers. It covers the basics and does them right. It’s easy to clean, easy to use, and heats fast. Best for weekend meals and small gatherings.

Weber Master-Touch Charcoal Grill 26-Inch

The Weber 26 offers a larger cooking area and more helpful features. It gives you 508 square inches of space, enough for big meals, ribs, or multiple dishes at once.

It also includes a warming rack to toast buns or keep food hot. The One-Touch cleaning system is upgraded with stainless steel blades and a big ash catcher.

The cooking grate is stainless steel and hinged, which makes it easy to add more charcoal without lifting the whole grate. It also has tool hooks, a lid thermometer, and adjustable charcoal rails for different cooking styles.

Features

• 508 square inches of cooking space

• Warming rack included

• One-Touch stainless steel cleaning system

• Stainless steel hinged cooking grate

• Lid thermometer

• Tool hooks for easy access

• Lid holder on the side

• Charcoal rails for direct and indirect cooking

• Porcelain-enameled body

What Is the Good?

• Large space for big meals

• Warming rack adds extra cooking room

• Hinged grate for easy refueling

• Thermometer helps monitor heat

• Charcoal rails make smoking easier

• Stronger ash system handles more charcoal

• Side lid holder is more convenient

What Is the Bad?

• Larger size needs more space

• Higher price than the 22

• Heavier to move

• May be too big for small families

• Extra features can be confusing at first

Overall Opinion

The Weber 26 gives you more control and more room. It’s built for bigger families or people who grill often. The added features help with long cooks and multi-item meals. Great for smoking, searing, and grilling all in one.

Detailed Comparison for Weber 22 vs Weber 26

Both grills share Weber’s strong build, porcelain-coated steel, and the One-Touch ash cleaning system. Both keep heat well and are built to last. But they fit different needs.

The Weber 22 is a classic. It’s light, simple, and easy to move. It has enough room for a family dinner and works for anyone learning charcoal grilling. It skips extras, but still gets the job done.

The Weber 26 is the next level. It adds cooking space, a warming rack, and a better cleaning system. You can grill, smoke, and sear with more control. It costs more but delivers more. It fits people who host big meals or want more grilling options.

If you grill a few burgers now and then, the 22 is enough. If you cook for crowds or love long cooks like ribs or brisket, the 26 is the better pick.

FAQs

Can both grills use the same charcoal?

Yes. Both use standard charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal.

Do they both come with a lid hook?

Yes. The 22 has a basic hook inside the lid. The 26 has a side lid holder, which is easier to use.

Is the ash cleaning system the same?

No. The 22 has a simple sweeper. The 26 has stronger stainless-steel blades and a larger catcher.

Can I add a thermometer to the Weber 22?

Yes. You can drill a hole and add a thermometer, but it does not come with one.

Are the grates dishwasher safe?

No. It’s better to clean the grates by hand with a brush after grilling.

Conclusion

The Weber 22 and Weber 26 are both solid charcoal grills. The 22 is light, simple, and budget-friendly. It’s best for small families or new grillers.

The 26 offers more space, better features, and more cooking control. It fits those who cook often or love to smoke meat. Both grills do the basics well.

The right one depends on how much you grill and how many people you feed. Simple choice for small meals? Go with the 22. Want space, control, and features? The 26 gives you more.