Even after several years of gas grills, there is something about charcoal grills that can never be old. Perhaps the reason is its great taste as compared to the charcoal grill. Two grills are the top competitors in the market right now.
The Old Smokey grill vs. the Weber charcoal grill is a major debate on the internet. These brands have huge names in the grill industry. On the top of that, both of them have their uniqueness.
We are going to review and dissect both and see where they stand.
Comparison: Old Smokey Grill vs Weber Charcoal Grill
Model | Old Smokey Charcoal Grill | Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill 18 Inch Black |
---|---|---|
Dampers | None | 4 |
Handles | Two on the side on the lid | One on the lid |
Cooking surface | 22 inches | 18 inches |
Product Dimensions | 22 x 22 x 28 inches | 19.75 x 20.5 x 19.75 inches |
Weight | 19 Pounds | 18 Pounds |
Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Old Smokey Industry History
Old Smokey is also a very long-standing company like Weber. There is not much of a difference between both. They generally were a family business of metal products. The company originally gave the market pipes, tubs, pails, coffee cans, and other items.
Soon, they had an idea of making outdoor grills and it is unstoppable now. They advanced into making material for outdoor grilling thus moved on to camping and brought about all the accessories associated.
Since their first item in this department was the Old Smokey grill, they named the company with it too. It began in Houston, Texas; and is still there. Not long after its inception, the company found international recognition and success. Today, Old Smokey runs neck to neck with all other competitors. They keep advancing their technology with time and keep introducing outdoor grill accessories and material.
Weber Industry History
Weber is one of the most popular companies in the world and Weber produces almost everything that is related to grilling and barbecuing. It started when George Stephen Sr. worked in the Weber Bros. Metal Works. He made a charcoal kettle which was the most desirable grill.
Within a few years, he was able to buy a partnership of the company, which then became Weber-Stephen Products Co. However, the company still grew. When the products started getting their foreign tours, Stephen knew he has made it. People all over America were fond of these products and the company became one of the most popular and reliable sources for grilling accessories in a short time.
Specialty
Weber and Old Smokey are more than a hundred years old each. Since they started they got bigger with each passing day. However, both of them have their specialty. Let’s take a look at what both of them have to offer.
Old Smokey Specialty
Since the company gained success in the grilling industry, they stuck to only special features and ruled the industry. You will find a lot of different outdoor charcoal and other kinds of grills with Old Smokey. Old Smokey products are great if you are into tailgating, camping, and other senses of outdoor grilling.
Weber Specialty
Weber started with a kettle charcoal grill. In the years after, the company stuck to all accessories connected to grilling. Each accessory is unique and especially for grilling and barbecuing. They have all kinds of grills and multiple grilling cookbooks as well. Weber is a great option for commercial use since it comes in grand sizes.
Old Smokey Charcoal Grill #22 (Large)
Old Smokey is about a century old brand and has its captivating charm. The Old Smokey Charcoal Grill #22 is one of the proofs of their quality and uniqueness when it comes to the grill. This grill comes with different features that make it ideal. There are many diverse models in this particular charcoal grill. These refer to the different sizes that you will find in this grill. This specific one is the jumbo charcoal grill.
Let’s talk about the material first. The material is a special aluminized steel. This is a very unique material and has the properties of steel and aluminum to some extent. It is resistant to corrosion and rusting. However, it is still light in weight and portable. Two plastic side handles work as an insulator for heat. The top cover also has a handle that does not heat up and makes handling easier and safer.
The cooking space is about 22 inches in diameter. This gives you enough space for bulk cooking. One of the reasons the Old Smokey Charcoal Grill #22 is great for cooking is its aluminized steel material.
The Old Smokey Charcoal Grill #22 has an 11.75 distance from the coals to the grates. This distance allows the food to cook without touching the coals and burning. There is a big lid that comes with this grill. The lid helps the food cook in its smoke and at its own pace.
All in all, the design is very simple. A charcoal grill does not require big hassles. This is a lightweight product that is easy to carry on your tailgating and camping adventures. It needs low maintenance and helps with outdoor grills.
Notable features:
- aluminized steel body
- plenty of space between coals and grates
- 22 inches diameter
- lightweight and portable
- plastic handle on the lid
- effortless assembly
Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill 18 Inch Black
Weber is highly competitive with Old Smokey. It has the charcoal grill for outdoors and otherwise as well. The idea of jumbo for Weber is slightly different than Old Smokey’s idea. The Weber charcoal grill is 18 inches in diameter. Let’s look at the features that Weber has to offer.
The most noticeable thing in the Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill is the aesthetics. This grill is great in looking good, it is neat and tidy, and compact. For more options in portability, this grill is lightweight and has an overall locking system to carry it without spills. The material is heavy-duty steel. However, there is an enamel coating in black color to make it rust and corrosion-free. It is also easy to clean without scrubbing for hours.
The cooking surface is about 18 inches which allows about bulk cooking for 8 people. The cooking grates have a heavy gauge steel material. They are plated steel to make it nonstick and effortless cleaning and maintaining, even during the cooking process.
Its lid has a handle that keeps the heat out. This feature adds a bunch of safety precautions. The lid tucks on the bowl so you do not have to place it somewhere else and increase the chances of having an injury or burn. One unique feature is, the lid has vent holes that help maintain the temperature of the charcoal heat. The more holes you close, the lower will be the heat. To shut down the grill, you can cover all holes and put the lid on it.
You will also find an aluminum ash catcher in this grill. This feature allows you to safely dispose of the ash and keep the grill clean without making a mess. There is a small aluminum stand as well to keep the whole thing in place.
All in all, the Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill is portable, functional, and stylish.
Notable features:
- Dampers to control heat.
- Enamel coating on the entire body.
- Heavy gauge steel nonstick grates.
- Ash catcher and stand.
- Lightweight and portable.
The Most Important Weber Charcoal Grill Accessories
Which product is for whom?
The products in the Old Smokey Grill vs. Weber charcoal grill comparison are so similar that it is hard to choose which one is better. Both seem to work on the same level of exceptionality in their specific territories.
The Old Smokey Grill is perfect for adventurous and outdoor people. Those who love camping, hiking, and are adventurous will benefit from it. This is a very low maintenance and uncomplicated grill. Just add some coal, light it up, and make the delicious food.
However, Weber’s is a little different. It’s slightly smaller and needs slightly more maintenance. People who like picnics and tailgating with a lot of people, this is for them. There is not much room to cook but the aesthetics make it look great.
Conclusion
Choosing one of these grills is a hard nut to crack. They are a lot of similarities and cooking capacities. However, keeping in mind several angles, we think that the Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill is the finest of these two. There are plenty of different reasons that are mentioned above why we think it is better.
The topmost reason is, it is compact and functional. It does not look like an Haute mess. Instead, the design is neat, tidy, and safe. The dampers ensure the best and toothsome food no matter what you cook. Food cannot be compromised and Weber takes the lead here.
Do you agree with our decision? What is your take or what is your experience with both these grills?