Many people are torn between the Weber Genesis and Spirit gas grills when it comes to outdoor grilling. Both are hugely popular models that offer a range of features and functionality, so which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll look at both the Weber Genesis and Spirit gas grills to help you decide which is best for your needs. We’ll cover their design, features, performance, price range, and more. So read on if you’re looking for a comprehensive analysis of the Weber Genesis vs Spirit debate.
About Weber Genesis Grill
As someone who loves to grill, I have been through my fair share of grills over the years; there is Weber Genesis Grill. Today, I will share my experience with the Weber Genesis Grill and why it is worth every penny.
When it comes to cooking, the Weber Genesis Grill is the ultimate tool. With its powerful burners and precise temperature control, this grill can cook anything from burgers to steaks to vegetables to perfection. The grill’s high-quality stainless steel grates distribute heat evenly, ensuring that your food is cooked uniformly every time. Plus, the grill’s built-in thermometer allows you to monitor the temperature of your grill easily, so you know when your food is ready to be served.
One of the things that I love most about the Weber Genesis Grill is its versatility. With its side burner, you can cook sauces and side dishes while grilling your main course. Plus, the grill’s warming rack keeps your food warm while you finish cooking the rest of your meal. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the Weber Genesis Grill even comes with a rotisserie attachment, so you can easily cook whole chickens or roasts.
When it comes to durability, the Weber Genesis Grill is unbeatable. The grill’s stainless steel construction ensures it will last for years, even with regular use. And if anything goes wrong, Weber’s customer service is second to none. They stand behind their products and will do everything in their power to ensure you are satisfied with your purchase.
About Weber Spirit Grill
It’s undeniable that gas grills are convenient, and the Weber Spirit gas grill takes that convenience to a new level. With its easy-to-use electronic ignition system, I can have the grill up and running in seconds. No more fumbling with matches or lighters, trying to coax a flame out of charcoal or wood chips. I turn a knob, and the grill is ready to go.
But convenience is just the beginning. The Spirit gas grill packs a severe punch regarding cooking power. The burners are designed to provide even heat distribution across the cooking surface, so every inch of your food is perfectly cooked. And with the option to use direct or indirect heat, I can easily cook everything from burgers to roasts.
One of the things I appreciate most about my Spirit gas grill is how easy it is to clean. The porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates are a breeze to wipe down, and the grease management system ensures quick and painless cleanup. Plus, the grill is designed with durability, so I know it will last for years.
But perhaps the best thing about the Spirit gas grill is the way it brings people together. There’s something about grilling that makes people happy. Whether having a family barbecue or hosting a neighborhood cookout, the Spirit gas grill is always at the center of the action. And with its spacious cooking surface, there’s plenty of room to cook for a crowd.
Weber Genesis And Spirit: What’re The Main Similarities
When it comes to gas grills, Weber is a well-known and trusted brand. Their Genesis and Spirit lines are two of their most popular offerings. While the two have some differences, there are also several key similarities.
Both the Genesis and Spirit lines are designed to deliver high-quality grilling experiences with durable construction and reliable performance. Additionally, both lines offer a range of sizes and features to fit different needs and preferences. For example, both lines include models with two or three burners and larger options for those needing more cooking space.
Both also offer options for liquid propane or natural gas and share the same 10-year warranty on burner tubes, cooking grates, and flavorizer bars. Whether you choose a Weber Genesis or Spirit grill, you can expect a high quality and performance that will make your grilling experience enjoyable and satisfying.
What Are The Main Differences Between Weber Genesis Vs Spirit
A few key differences exist when comparing Weber Genesis and Spirit gas grills. The Genesis models have a higher BTU output, with a main burner delivering 39000 BTUs compared to the Spirit’s 30000 BTUs. Additionally, the Genesis has an expandable top cooking grill, while the Spirit has a traditional warming rack. The primary cooking area on the Weber Genesis is also 23% bigger than the Spirit, measuring 513 square inches compared to the Spirit’s 529 square inches. The Genesis also features a Sear Zone burner for better grilling performance.
Another notable difference is the price, with the Genesis starting at $1799 and the Spirit starting at $1099. Both models feature stainless steel burners, enameled cast iron grills, electronic ignition systems, and side tables with tool hooks for convenience. While the Spirit may be a good value choice for beginner grillers, the Genesis line offers premium features for more experienced and frequent grillers.
Cooking Performance
The Genesis series comes with the GS4 Pure Blue Grilling System, which aims to improve grilling performance and allow for better management. This system has been a major selling point for the Genesis series, delivering even heat distribution and a powerful burn. In contrast, the Spirit series has a more basic burner system and lacks the additional features and power of the Genesis. However, it still provides a reliable performance that can cook most types of food.
The Genesis series offers a larger cooking space and higher BTUs, while the Spirit series has a more straightforward setup and a lower price point. Overall, for those who prioritize cooking performance and versatility, the Genesis series may be the better option, while the Spirit series is a good starter choice for occasional grillers on a budget.
Temperature Control
The Genesis line has upgraded temperature control through the PUREBLU Grilling System, allowing for better heat management and overall grilling performance. On the other hand, the Spirit line has basic temperature control technology. Both lines also offer the Weber Connect system, allowing temperature control through a smartphone app. However, the Genesis line has the option to upgrade to a 13,000 BTU searing burner, which can increase the temperature for faster and more efficient cooking.
Ultimately, the main difference between the two when it comes to temperature control is that the Genesis line offers more advanced options. At the same time, the Spirit line is more basic and straightforward in its temperature control features.
Burner Power
The Genesis models generally offer higher BTU (British Thermal Unit) ratings than the Spirit models. For example, the Genesis II line has a total BTU output ranging from 29,000 to 69,000 across its various models, while the Spirit II line has a total BTU output ranging from 26,500 to 32,000. This means the Genesis grills may heat up faster and have a higher maximum temperature than the Spirit grills. However, it should be noted that BTU rating is not the only factor that affects a grill’s performance, and the Spirit grills are still capable and affordable options for those looking for value.
Heat Retention
The Genesis line has been designed to offer better heat retention due to its thicker gauge steel construction. This means Genesis grills can reach and maintain higher temperatures for longer, making them ideal for searing steaks and other meats. On the other hand, the Spirit series is made with thinner gauge steel, which can result in less heat retention. However, this can make the Spirit grills more efficient, as they take less time to heat up and cool down.
Warming Rack / Top grill
The main differences between Weber Genesis vs Spirit grills can be seen in the heat retention capabilities. Genesis grills boast a more advanced design with more features, including the GS4 PUREBLU Grilling System, designed to improve grilling performance and allow for better heat management. The system includes a sear station and a side burner, adding to the grill’s versatility.
In comparison, the Spirit series is more basic and simple in design, with a smaller number of features and less advanced technology. As a result, heat retention is not quite as efficient as in the Genesis line. Overall, while Genesis grills offer more advanced technology, Spirit grills are still of high quality and provide reliable heat retention performance.
Accessories
The Genesis line is generally geared towards grilling enthusiasts willing to pay for higher quality and extra functionality. At the same time, the Spirit range is designed for those prioritizing value for money over extra features. One noticeable difference between the two ranges is the number of burners and the burners’ power. The new Genesis models have a 13000 BTU searing burner, while the Spirit range offers simpler models. The Genesis range also includes more burners and higher BTUs, providing extra cooking versatility.
Another notable difference between the two ranges is the availability of accessories. The Genesis grills have the option to add CONNECT Smart Technology for food monitoring and gas lighting to illuminate the grilling surface and knobs. At the same time, the Spirit models don’t offer this feature. The Genesis range includes more prep areas, an enclosed cart, and an expandable top cooking grill, while the Spirit models have a traditional warming rack.
How Does The Cooking Space Compare Between The Two Models?
The Weber Spirit line offers 529 square inches of cooking space with 30,000 BTUs, while the Genesis II line provides 513-787 square inches of cooking space with 32,000-37,500 BTUs. Additionally, the Genesis II features an expandable top cooking grill, while the Spirit has a traditional warming rack. The primary cooking area in Genesis II is also 23% larger than that of Spirit II.
Cart And Wheels
The Genesis models come with an enclosed cart, whereas the Spirit series has an open cart design. The enclosed cart on the Genesis provides more storage space as compared to the open cart on Spirit. The Genesis models also come with caster wheel designs, allowing easier maneuverability on uneven surfaces. Meanwhile, the Spirit series features a simple plastic wheel design.
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Price
The Genesis line is more expensive, with an RRP of $1799, while the Spirit line is priced at $1099. The Genesis models offer more premium features and greater durability, making them suitable for those who grill frequently or consider themselves lifestyle grillers. Meanwhile, the Spirit line is a more value-oriented choice and is suitable for beginner grillers. Both grill lines offer modern updates and compatibility with Weber’s Smart Grill CONNECT system, which allows for temperature setting and control from a smartphone app.
Grill Grates
The Spirit line features porcelain-enameled cast iron grates, which are durable and offer excellent heat retention for even cooking. On the other hand, the Genesis II line comes with stainless steel grates as part of their GS4 Grilling System. These grates are designed to provide maximum heat output and are easier to clean than cast iron. Ultimately, the choice between these grates comes down to personal preference and how you plan to use your grill. Cast iron grates are great for searing and retaining heat, while stainless steel grates are ideal for grilling a wider range of foods and are easier to maintain.
Sizes
The Spirit series generally offers smaller grills perfect for those with limited outdoor space or those looking for a more portable option. The two-burner Spirit II E-210 and three-burner E-310 models are the most popular in this series. On the other hand, the Genesis series has a wider range of sizes, with models like the Genesis II E-335 offering a larger cooking surface of 669 square inches and four burners, perfect for those who want to cook for larger families or entertain guests.
While both series offer smart grill capabilities and use the same warranty on burner tubes, cooking grates, and flavorizer bars, the Genesis line’s extra burners, larger cooking areas, and enhanced features make it a better option for the more experienced grillers who are willing to invest in higher quality and functionality.
Upgraded Storage Options
The new Genesis models have better storage options, including better casters for moving the grill around, optional LED lighting in the handles, a bigger gap for the rotisserie bracket, and even a doubled size of the warming rack. This contrasts with the Spirit line, which has more basic storage options. The upgraded storage options on the Genesis models make them an excellent choice for those who plan on using their grill often and need ample space for their grilling accessories.
Are Weber Genesis Grills More Durable Than Weber Spirit Grills?
When it comes to durability, Weber Genesis grills are generally considered to be more durable than Spirit grills.
The Genesis line of grills is designed for grilling enthusiasts who are willing to pay more for higher quality and extra functionality. These grills have more burners than the Spirit line and can provide higher heat outputs. Furthermore, the Genesis grills are compatible with Weber’s iGrill 3 Smart Tech, a Bluetooth-enabled thermometer that gives important information about what you’re cooking and sends notifications to your phone. The Genesis grills also come with an enclosed cart, offering more prep areas and extra storage space.
On the other hand, Weber Spirit grills are simpler and are generally cheaper. Even though they are simple, the Spirit line is equipped with reliable products offering high-quality grilling experiences even on a budget. The inclusion of side tables that provide the cook with extra space to prepare meals and tool hooks make the Spirit series exceptional at trapping heat and providing even cooking.
The Genesis and Spirit lines come with a 10-year warranty on the burner tubes, cooking grates, and flavorizer bars, while the Genesis offers 12 years on the cook box and lid. It is important to note that this warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, which might be obtained with regular use.
Sear Station
The sear station has been available on previous Genesis models, but the new models have an even larger sear station. This addresses previous concerns about how many steaks can be seared at once. If searing is important to the grilling enthusiast, then the Weber Genesis may be the way to go. On the other hand, the Spirit line may be a better choice for beginner grillers or those who want a simpler grill.
Both lines now feature the Smart Grill Weber CONNECT system, allowing remote monitoring through an app. The Weber Genesis line also has a CRAFTED Outdoor Collection that can swap standard grill grates for special sear grates, a baking stone, a flat-top griddle, or even more, while the Weber Spirit line does not offer this feature.
Design
The Weber Genesis line is considered to have a more premium design with extra features and greater durability, making it an excellent choice for those who grill frequently or consider themselves a lifestyle griller. On the other hand, the Weber Spirit line has a simpler and more value-oriented design, making it a good choice for beginner grillers.
The newest Genesis models also incorporate more technology and features than ever, including upgraded storage, better casters, optional LED lighting in the handles, and larger warming racks. The Spirit line also offers modern updates, including the Weber Connect system that allows remote monitoring through a smartphone app and stainless or porcelain enameled cast iron grates.
Which Grill Is Easier To Clean: Weber Genesis Or Spirit?
When it comes to cleaning, both the Weber Genesis and Spirit lines of gas grills are relatively easy to maintain. The grates on both models are made of porcelain-enameled cast iron, which makes cleaning a breeze. The process involves brushing off any excess debris and cleaning the grates with soap and water. Additionally, both grills have grease management systems that reduce flare-ups and make interior cleaning easier. The Genesis models have a more advanced grease management system that funnels grease into a disposable drip tray. However, both lines of grills require regular cleaning to ensure that they continue to function properly and look their best.
Unique Features
One of the main differences between the two is the number of burners and the size of the cooking areas. The Genesis offers more burners and a higher KW capacity for generating higher heat, while the Spirit has fewer burners and smaller cooking space. The new Genesis line also includes a 13000 BTU searing burner and an enclosed cart with more prep areas, while the Spirit models remain simpler and cheaper.
Additionally, the Genesis models have the option to add CONNECT Smart Technology for food monitoring and gas lighting to illuminate the grilling surface and knobs. Both lines come with a 10-year warranty on the burner tubes, cooking grates, and flavorizer bars, while the Genesis offers 12 years on the cook box and lid. Overall, the Genesis line offers more unique features and functionality than the Spirit line but comes at a higher cost.
Which Grill Is Better Suited For Larger Households: Weber Genesis Or Spirit?
Both the Weber Genesis and Spirit models can offer good options when choosing a grill for a larger household. The Weber Genesis boasts a larger cooking space with 787 square inches compared to the Spirit’s 529 square inches. The Genesis also has higher BTUs at 37500 compared to Spirit’s 30000. Both models offer smart grill capabilities with their Weber Connect system, allowing remote monitoring through the Weber Connect app.
The Genesis models also offer additional features, such as a sear station and the ability to swap out grill grates. However, the Spirit models are typically more affordable and can still provide good value for money. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to individual needs and budget.
Which Grill Is Ideal For Outdoor Cooking Enthusiasts: Weber Genesis Or Spirit?
The Spirit line is designed for those prioritizing value for money over extra features, while the Genesis offers higher quality and extra functionality for grilling enthusiasts willing to pay more. However, the Spirit grills are generally simpler and cheaper, making them a great option for those on a budget.
The Spirit II E-210 and E-310 models are capable and affordable, providing good value for money. The main difference between these two models is their cooking space, with the latter model having more area to work with and the ability to reverse some of its grates. The Genesis E-325s is a great option for dedicated grillers, offering more heat per square inch and a larger grilling area than the Spirit while maintaining exceptional performance and durability.
Ultimately, the grill choice will depend on personal preferences and budget. Both Weber Spirit and Genesis lines offer quality grills that come with a 10 to 12-year warranty, making them a reliable choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Are Weber Genesis Grills Easier To Assemble Than Spirit Grills?
According to factual data, no clear evidence suggests that Weber Genesis grills are easier to assemble than Spirit grills. Both of these grill lines come with instruction manuals and require similar levels of assembly, which typically takes anywhere from one to three hours, depending on the model.
However, some users may find the Genesis series slightly more complicated to assemble due to their extra features and larger size. Overall, the ease of assembly may depend on individual preferences and experience assembling grills. It is recommended that users carefully follow the instructions and take their time to ensure proper assembly and safe usage of their Weber grill.
Warranty
The Weber Spirit and Genesis gas grill lines have several key differences, including warranties. Both lines offer a 10-year warranty on burner tubes, cooking grates, and flavorizer bars, while the Genesis line also offers a 12-year warranty on the cook box and lid. It is important to note that these warranties do not cover normal wear and tear.
Is Weber Genesis Better Than Spirit?
Both lines offer modern updates with new features added every few years. The new Genesis models include a larger sear station, compatibility with the Weber Connect app, and increased versatility by swapping out standard grill grates for different cooking surfaces. While more straightforward and generally cheaper, the Spirit models still offer smart grill capabilities and 10-year warranties on their burner tubes, cooking grates, and flavorizer bars. While the Genesis may have more premium offerings, the Spirit line can still provide excellent value for beginner grillers.
What Is The BTU Output For The Weber Genesis II And Spirit Gas Grills?
When choosing a gas grill, many buyers consider the BTU (British Thermal Unit) output, among other important features. In the case of Weber grills, both the Weber Genesis II and Weber Spirit lines offer impressive BTU outputs.
The Weber Genesis II has a BTU output of 37,500 with 513 square inches of cooking space, while the Spirit line has a BTU output of 30,000 with 529 square inches of cooking space. Furthermore, the Genesis II also features a sear station and the new CRAFTED Outdoor Collection, which allows users to swap out grill grates for special sear grates, a baking stone, a flat-top griddle, and more. Whether buyers opt for the Genesis or Spirit line, they can expect high-quality grills with modern features and impressive BTU outputs.
How Does The Weber Connect System Work, And Which Model(S) Offer This Feature?
The Weber Connect system is a step-by-step grilling assistant that turns any grill into a smart grill and any griller into a master. It provides remote wifi access, flip & serve notifications, and readiness countdowns, making grilling easier and more convenient. Grillers can select doneness using the Weber Connect app and receive alerts when food is ready.
The app also provides a food readiness countdown, estimated cook time, and step-by-step assistance from setup to when it’s time to eat. The Weber Connect app is compatible with iPhones on iOS 12.1 or later and most smartphones on Android 7.0 or later.
The system is offered in two models: the standalone Weber Connect Smart Grilling Hub, which can equip any grill with Bluetooth and wifi smarts, and the SmokeFire grills, equipped with the ability to tap into the cooking knowledge of JuneOS. Both models send real-time temperature readings to the app for up to four food probes, and in the case of the Grilling Hub, one of those can be designated for ambient grill temp.
FAQs About Weber Genesis Vs Spirit
How Does The Led Lighting Feature Enhance The User Experience On These Gas Grills?
The LED lighting feature on gas grills enhances the user experience by providing visibility during nighttime grilling. These lights are typically integrated into the control knobs or under the hood, ensuring users can easily navigate their grill settings or check on their food without struggling to see in the dark. This feature is particularly useful for those who enjoy hosting evening barbecues or live in areas with limited daylight hours. LED lighting also adds a touch of luxury to a gas grill, making it feel like a high-end appliance.
What Is The Crafted Outdoor Collection, And How Does It Enhance The Aesthetic Of Weber Gas Grills?
The Weber CRAFTED Outdoor Kitchen Collection is a line of custom-fit grillware designed to elevate the grilling experience and expand the possibilities of what can be cooked on a gas grill. The collection includes a variety of accessories, including a flat top griddle, dual-sided sear grate, wok and steamer, roasting basket, glazed baking stone, rotisserie skewers, and Dutch oven duo.
The right-hand grill grate is removed and placed on a side hanger hook, and the frame kit (if necessary) is inserted to use the CRAFTED collection. The selected grillware is placed in the frame, and grilling can commence. The CRAFTED collection is compatible with Weber Genesis, Spirit, and SmokeFire grills and is interchangeable for endless versatility.
With the addition of the CRAFTED outdoor collection, Weber gas grills have been transformed into a culinary hotspot, providing backyard chefs with ample opportunities to sear, roast, steam, bake, and stir-fry various dishes.
The Key Differences Between The Weber Genesis II And Spirit Gas Grills
The Weber Genesis II offers more premium offerings with extra features, including larger cooking spaces and higher KW capacity for generating higher heat. It also features a built-in Weber Connect system for remote monitoring through a smartphone app and compatibility with the CRAFTED Outdoor Collection. In contrast, the Weber Spirit is a simpler and more value-oriented line, but it is a great choice for beginner grillers with everything needed to get started.
Both lines now feature modern updates, including the Smart Grill Weber CONNECT system that sets a temperature digitally or controls the grill from the smartphone app. While the Weber Spirit has excellent value models for their money, the Weber Genesis II is a step up with more features and greater quality, making it a great choice for experienced grilles.
And it should be noted that except for the Weber Smokefire, all Weber models are no longer made entirely in the USA; both the Spirit and Genesis II lines are made and assembled entirely in Taiwan or China. Nevertheless, Weber products are designed and developed in the USA, and rigorous testing and a generous warranty substantiate the brand’s belief in their products’ quality.
Weber Spirit II E-310 Vs Genesis II E-310
While these models have similarities, the differences in functional characteristics can cause difficulties in choosing the right one for your requirements, conditions, and budget.
The Spirit II E-310 model offers 529 square inches of total cooking area, while the Genesis II E-310 model is almost 25% bigger at 669 square inches. The models possess a rating of 30000 and 39000 BTU, respectively, and both provide two side tables, with the Spirit’s left table being folded and the Genesis having both side tables fixed.
The Spirit grill stands on two legs complemented by two wheels for easier transportation, whereas the Genesis offers four wheels and no legs with a special tank niche. Inside, flavorizer bars are made of porcelain-enameled cast-iron and stainless steel, respectively, while the Spirit’s warming rack is removable, and Genesis’s one is tuck-away.
The Spirit II E-310 is perfect for frequent cooking tasks, large families, and big parties, allowing for even roasting with 3 burners and independent flame control valves, a large cooking area for 18+ burgers, a warming rack system for food warming, wide storage area with two side tables and an open cart niche, six built-in hooks for immediate access to cooking tools, and a fuel gauge for fuel level control.
In contrast, the Genesis II E-310 offers a Tuck-Away warming rack area versus the fixed rack on the Spirit, a welded tube design frame versus the panel frame on the Spirit, and stainless steel Flavorizer bars versus the porcelain enameled bars on the Spirit, among others.
Deciding which model is best for you is a matter of personal preference, as the Genesis lineup is designed for people who want a nicer grill with more features to cook full meals. In contrast, the Spirit model is a simple and reliable gas grill.
Conclusion
And there you have it, our thorough comparison of the Weber Genesis vs Spirit grills. We hope this discussion has clarified the differences and similarities between the two models and helped you decide which one best fits your grilling needs. As always, we appreciate your feedback and invite you to share your experiences with either grill in the comments below. Happy grilling!
References:
- https://www.engadget.com/2020-01-12-weber-connect-first-look-ces-2020.html
- https://www.weber.com/US/en/gas/genesis/
- https://www.weber.com/US/en/gas/spirit/
Hey readers! Chip Holland here, and I’m a Manager of this website. My passion for writing about it only matches my passion for BBQ. Follow my blog for mouth-watering recipes, tips, and tricks for the perfect smoke, grill, and BBQ. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!