Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Review: Would Owners Buy It Again?
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through links on this page we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. How this review was made: We did not test this grill in person. This verdict rests on expert coverage listed at the end. We could read only a small number of detailed sources, so we found little on rust or long-term owner complaints and say so below. Our method.
A simple classic that experts still recommend
AmazingRibs describes the 22-inch kettle as sturdy, long-lasting and versatile, with a tight lid seal that makes the vents effective for heat control, and gave it its top rating. It is a basic charcoal grill with no extras, so low-and-slow smoking needs an add-on, and charcoal takes more skill than gas. For people who want to learn charcoal cooking without a big outlay, it is an easy repeat.
Check current price on Amazon → Prices and availability change often, so we don't list them here.Buy it again if you…
- want to learn charcoal grilling with a proven design
- like a simple grill with no electronics
- grill for a family or small group
Skip it if you…
- want push-button convenience like gas
- want built-in smoker features
- cook for large crowds regularly
The Weber Original Kettle is the classic round charcoal grill. The 22-inch version is the mid-size model and is built around two sets of vents that control airflow and temperature.
We relied on expert coverage and manufacturer information. Independent long-term durability data is limited, and we flag that below.
What owners say, at a glance
Bars show our editorial summary of how consistently owners praise or complain about each area across all sources — not a lab measurement.
The key specs
| Fuel | Charcoal |
|---|---|
| Cooking area | 363 square inches |
| Bowl and lid | Porcelain-enamelled (per Weber) |
| Ash handling | Lever sweeps ash into an aluminium pan (per AmazingRibs) |
| Control | Top and bottom vents |
What experts like
What to know before buying
How it holds up over time
Expert coverage calls the kettle durable and long-lasting, and Weber offers a long warranty in some markets. We did not find detailed independent long-term tests or a reliable summary of rust complaints, so we cannot quantify failures. Keeping the ash dry and covering the grill is the usual advice.
Tips
- Empty ash regularly and keep it dry.
- Use both vents to steer temperature rather than the lid alone.
- Cook with two zones by piling coals to one side.
- Add a smoking insert if you want low-and-slow results.
Pros and cons
What owners love
- Proven, simple design
- Good heat control from the vents
- Versatile: sear, roast, grill
- Described as sturdy and long-lasting
- Can be extended with add-ons for smoking
What owners complain about
- Basic with no extras
- Charcoal needs more effort than gas
- Smoking needs a separate insert
- Ash must be kept dry to avoid corrosion
Other options owners compare
Charcoal grills run from simple to premium.
| Model | Style | Consider it if… | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weber Original Kettle 22-inch (this review) | Classic charcoal kettle | You want a simple, proven charcoal grill | See on Amazon |
| Kamado Joe Big Joe III | Premium ceramic kamado | You want a premium-priced, heavy-duty grill and smoker | See on Amazon |
| Ninja Foodi Smart 6-in-1 Indoor Grill Read our review | Electric indoor grill | You want grilling without charcoal or outdoor space | See on Amazon |
Ready to start cooking over charcoal?
Check current options and accessories on Amazon.
Frequently asked questions
Can I smoke on it?
Yes with an add-on such as a Slow 'N Sear insert, per AmazingRibs.
Does the curved shape reflect more heat?
AmazingRibs says no; most heat comes straight from the coals.
How do I clear ash?
Sweep it through the bottom vent with the lever into the pan, and empty it regularly.
Is it good for beginners?
Experts call it a perfectly fine tool, though charcoal has a learning curve.
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Sources we analyzed
- AmazingRibs: Weber Original Kettle 22 review — specs, strengths, caveats, rating
- Weber: Original Kettle (Ireland) — materials, warranty, ash catcher advice
Figures reflect each source as of October 21, 2026 and may change. We summarize owner feedback in our own words and do not reproduce retailer reviews.