Weber Smokey Joe Gold

Bottom Line

For those who want a portable grill for tailgating or camping, reviewers say you can't go wrong with the Smokey Joe Gold. Many also agree this portable version works as well as Weber's highly rated, full-sized charcoal models. We found a few complaints about design, but most say this model is solidly built and cooks dependably -- exactly what a portable grill should be.

Performance

As good as a full-size Weber. Most reviewers say the Smokey Joe Gold performs as well as full-size Weber grills. Owners report using the model with great success to cook a range of foods, from burgers and hot dogs to venison, steaks, chicken, vegetables and marshmallows. Some also say it does a fine job with indirect cooking, although one user says it's not suited to this method. Moreover, in one professional, comparative test the Smokey Joe Gold's cooking performance earns a top rating.

Ease Of Use

Sturdy and roomy. Reviewers say the Smokey Joe Gold's cooking surface is roomy, and its domed lid allows for roasting something as large as a butterflied chicken. In addition, users say it is sturdy, with one noting that it remained undamaged even when bumped around. Many also find that it catches ashes effectively and is easy to clean, and some say the lid lock keeps the unit secure during transport. However, some users fault the air vents, which are located above the coals, because they say this causes the fire to go out during cooking if the lid is shut.

Safety

Few safety worries. We found only two safety-related complaints about the Smokey Joe Gold: One comes from a user who says it produces a lot of smoke; and the other comes from a user who complains that the legs are not that secure and need to be regularly tightened, since you don't want one to come loose when the grill is hot. Other than that, safety is not a big concern in reviews. The grill's safety instructions are identical to those for all Weber charcoal grills, and include keeping the grill clear of flammable liquids and extinguishing charcoal after cooking.

Cost Of Ownership

Inexpensive, with "rock-solid" construction. The combination of an extremely affordable price and a build that one reviewer calls "rock-solid" makes the Smokey Joe Gold a great value, reviewers say. The unit gets a top rating for durability in one professional test, and one home griller writes, "The quality and gauge of metal used in this product tells me I will have it for many years to come, if I take care of it." The grill comes with a 10-year warranty on the bowl, lid and nylon handle, and a two-year warranty on the grates and remaining components.