Weber One-Touch Gold

Bottom Line

The One-Touch Gold is for those who like the Weber Silver charcoal grill but want additional features. Extras you won't find on the Silver include a built-in thermometer, a hinged cooking grate that's handy for adding more charcoal, and an ash bucket that gets far better reviews than the Silver version. The Gold will cost you about $50 more than the Silver, but many say the features are well worth the upcharge.

Performance

Grills, smokes and slow-cooks with excellent results. Reviewers say that thanks to its large cooking space, round shape, and well-designed venting, the Weber One-Touch Gold holds heat extremely well--which, they note, leads to consistently good performance. One user says the air circulates so well, it's like having a convection grill, while another says the coals stay hot "for a long time." Owners report successfully serving up a range of foods, including steaks, burgers, ribs, stuffed jalapenos, pork loin, and chicken, as well as a whole turkey. We found no complaints about cooking performance in any user or professional review.

Ease Of Use

Quick assembly, convenient extras. Users say it takes no more than 20 minutes to set up the One-Touch Gold, and they note that this Weber is easy to use, too. One reviewer calls it "simple and effortless," and another says cleanup is "a breeze." Owners like the built-in thermometer and hinged cooking grate (which allows you to add more charcoal); the ash basket is considered effective too. However, one owner wishes the hinged portion of the grate was larger, and some grillers would like a hook for the lid.

Safety

Almost no safety concerns. We found very few safety-related comments about the One-Touch Gold. One reviewer complains that the handle isn't insulated enough and gets too hot (although another finds the model's glass-reinforced handle a "nice upgrade" from previous units). Another griller reports "far fewer flare-ups" than with a previously owned gas grill. Some find that construction is flimsy, which could be a safety concern if stability problems occur when the grill is hot. Standard safety tips from the Weber owner manual include keeping the grill away from flammable liquids and using barbecue mitts and long-handled utensils.

Cost Of Ownership

"Worth every penny." Reviewers say the One-Touch Gold is a great value. One user calls the construction "solid," and another expects the grill to "last a long time." A third says it is "worth every penny." Nevertheless, one owner finds the enamel of "lower quality" than that of a previously owned version, and there are two reports of rust and mold. Some also find the legs flimsy. As for maintenance, the user manual advises an annual thorough cleaning with mild detergent and water. The warranty runs 10 years for the bowl, lid and handle; and two years for the grates and other parts.