The Big Green Egg and the Weber are two of the highest-quality outdoor cooking systems you can get. What’s great about them is that they’re both capable of grilling your food to perfection.
That said, these cooking systems have unique features that give them an edge over others. You may want to explore their differences to find the unit with the right price and functions.
Today, I’ll compare the Big Green Egg vs. Weber and discuss their key features. I’ll also go through the most frequent questions about these grills.
If you’re looking to elevate your cooking this summer, this article’s for you!
An Overview of the Big Green Egg and Weber Grills
Should you buy a Big Green Egg or a Weber? Here’s an overview of both brands.
The Big Green Egg – Where Versatility Meets Style
The Big Green Egg is a classically styled outdoor oven that works as a griller. Its design originates from the Kamado oven – a tool the Japanese used to cook meat and rice for centuries.
After World War II, American soldiers serving in Japan brought this oven type back to the US.
In 1974, Ed Fisher opened The Big Green Egg company in Atlanta, Georgia. This is when Eggs as we know them came into production.
To own a Big Green Egg is not just about the food you’re going to prepare. The presence of these gorgeous and durable ovens creates an ambiance that sets your backyard apart!
The Weber Grill – An American Icon
Weber products come with a proven history of quality. The brand has been producing excellent outdoor cooking equipment since the 1950s.
Weber’s inventor, George Stephen Sr, designed them by connecting the half-spheres of two buoys. Doing this meant the grills had a lid that could open and close, contributing to their popularity.
In 2021, Weber held 24% of the market share in outdoor grills. It became the leading brand across the globe.
Today, most people are familiar with Weber’s black kettle-style charcoal grill. These iconic grills have become a household name in many American backyards!
Big Green Egg vs. Weber – What’s the Difference?
The main difference between the Big Green Egg and the Weber is that the former is a thick ceramic air-tight oven. It lets you produce anything from bread to pizza.
Meanwhile, the Weber is a relaxed, convenient grill ideal for summer weekends on the patio.
Let’s further break down their variances.
1. Price
The Big Green Egg is an outdoor Kamado-style oven that’s highly versatile in the range of menu items. It can perform more functions than its competitors.
Because of this, Eggs are in the higher price range. One XL model Egg, which is 24”, starts at $1399, without any accessories.
Meanwhile, Webers are no-fuss grills that are far less expensive than Eggs. A 26” Original Standard-sized Weber will set you back around $389, which includes a complete setup and the stand.
Of course, when comparing Weber and Big Green Egg prices, you should check similar-sized models. Both brands offer a variety of sizes in the same design.
2. Weight
Another significant difference between a Big Green Egg and a Weber is their weight.
The Egg is notoriously heavy, so you may need to keep it in one place. Don’t forget to see if your deck or patio can support its weight.
An XL Big Green Egg weighs 219 lbs and requires more than one person to install.
Compared to this, you can easily wheel a Weber to where you need it. The Standard size of a Weber comes in at 56.6lbs. You can set it up yourself and even bring it on trips!
3. Versatility
What I like most about the Big Green Egg is its air-tight lid and precise temperature cooking control system. Its design provides better heat retention than any other outdoor cooker.
These features let you make subtle changes during cooking to produce a versatile range of menu items. You may use it for grilling, smoking, and even baking!
In contrast, you might have a hard time smoking or baking food with the Weber grill. However, the brand does have other types of equipment on top of its charcoal grills.
You can buy electric, gas, wood pellets, and portable grills from Weber in a range of attractive colors. It also sells smokers, griddles, and even Kamado-style cookers!
So while Weber grillers aren’t as versatile as Eggs, you can buy other Weber products if needed.
4. Accessories
The Big Green Egg comes with accessories that’ll expand your capabilities. There are wok and rotisserie expander systems.
You may customize the Big Green Egg with modular wheels or acacia tables.
Compared to this, the Weber grill has several useful options for accessories. It has a griddle, pizza stone, and rotisserie attachment.
What’s great about the Weber grill is that it has a large surface to work with, and you don’t need to buy a table to house it like the Egg.
5. Weather Resistance
There’s nothing better than a hearty casserole baked in a Big Green Egg during the winter. Luckily, you won’t have a problem getting your coals lit during this time.
One of the best features of a Big Green Egg is that it’s usable no matter the weather. You can leave a Big Egg out in rain or shine, and it’ll survive through blizzards and heat waves.
Plus, weatherproof Egg covers are available if you want to keep the setup in mint condition.
Compared to this, you may have to pack a Weber grill away in the cold months if you don’t plan on using it. Although Webers are resistant to water, you must cover it for added protection.
6. Temperature Control
Temperature is a crucial factor when it comes to cooking.
With the Big Green Egg, you can reach higher temperatures because of its thick material. An Egg can reach temperatures of up to 750°F. It’s easier to control than other brands and can heat up within 20 minutes.
This makes the Egg perfect for food that needs high heat, like pizza.
On the other hand, Webers can only go up to 550°F. It has a thinner cover, meaning cold weather can affect the inside temperature of the grill.
The good news is there’s no startup time with propane or gas Weber grills. You can use it right away for cooking barbecue with no issues.
7. Lifespan
If you need an impressive outside cooking system that you can enjoy all year through, a Big Green Egg is an excellent investment. The Egg has a lifetime warranty, so you’ll save on costs in the long run.
Meanwhile, a Weber is perfect if you need an affordable summer grill.
The warranty on its metal parts lasts for only five to ten years. Still, Weber owners say their grill outlasts the 10-year warranty, especially if you keep them clean and dry.
Big Green Egg vs. Weber: A Side-By-Side Comparison
Let’s take a side-by-side comparative look at a Big Green Egg vs. the Weber Kettle Charcoal Grill.
| Big Green Grill – XL | Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill | |
| Colors Available | Dark Green | Mostly black, but available in other colors |
| Sizes Available | The mini is 10” and the largest is 29”, which is the 2XL size. | Mostly 14″ – 26″. There is also a 37” Ranch Kettle. |
| Material | Thick ceramic | Metal–porcelain coated |
| Weight | Very heavy | Lightweight |
| Models | Charcoal burning | Charcoal |
| Portability | Difficult to move | Maneuverable |
| Grill Seal | Forms a tight seal when closed | Not air-tight |
| Max Temperature | 750°F – can be carefully controlled | 550°F – affected by the outside temperature |
| Weather conditions for effective use | Has a thick shell for all weather conditions | Thin walls so the inside temperature gets affected by extreme cold |
| Fuel | Lump hardwood charcoal | Briquettes and other fuels |
| Durability | Will never rust, wear out, or jam up | Weather-resistant but should be stored indoors in a dry place |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Ten years on the bowl and lid, five years on the One-Touch cleaning system, and two years on all remaining parts. |
Note that these aren’t the only models from both brands. You may want to check their other units before making a purchase.
Big Green Egg vs. Weber Pros and Cons
The Big Green Egg and the Weber are high-quality brands with global recognition. Let’s explore their pros and cons.
Big Green Egg Advantages
Here are the pros of the Big Green Egg.
- Durability: The strength and durability of the Big Green Egg make it a sought-after cooking system.
- Seal: Big Green Eggs have airtight seals. This means you can use them for smoking food items.
- Temperature Control: The Big Green Egg has a precise temperature control system. Use it for baking, grilling, and roasting!
Big Green Egg Disadvantages
These are some of the downsides of the Big Green Egg.
- Price: A Big Green Egg is way more expensive than a Weber.
- Corrosion Issues: While the Big Green Egg is weather-resistant, its stands and accessories may not be so hardy.
Weber Advantages
Here’s why you should buy a Weber grill.
- Equipment Options: The Weber brand has countless colors and cooking equipment. It has electric, gas, Kamado, and charcoal grills.
- Price: Weber grills are affordable and suitable for people who prefer a casual setup. You can get a great quality grill for less than what you’d spend on an Egg.
- Portability: You can bring a Weber grill anywhere. It’s lightweight and portable, which makes it suitable for camping trips.
Weber Disadvantages
These are a few disadvantages of Weber grills.
- Temperature Issues: Because of its thin covering, it’s difficult to control the internal temperature of Weber grills. Cold weather can affect the internal temperature of the grill.
- Lifespan: Weber grills only have a warranty of up to ten years. Some of its parts may have an even shorter lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Big Green Egg or Weber – What Came First?
The Kamado design of Big Green Eggs dates back centuries in Japan. However, the first company to go into production in the USA was Weber.
Weber was established in 1952 by metalworks expert George Stephen. It has a 20-year head start over Big Green Egg in commercially manufacturing high-quality grills.
Can a Big Green Egg Get Wet?
Yes. Big Green Eggs can get wet and they perform well in rain and snow. Still, it’s best to avoid letting water pool inside the grill as moisture can damage the ceramic.
To prolong the lifespan of a Big Green Egg, you should protect it with a ventilating cover and keep it dry when possible.
Are All Weber Grills the Same?
No. Weber has many grill designs at varying price points. You can get high-quality electric, charcoal, and gas grills from this brand.
Weber promises you’ll feel the difference in a seamless cooking experience with its high-performance models!
Does Weber Have a Kamado Style Grill?
Yes. Weber’s Summit Kamado E6 is a grill worth checking out.
This Kamado-style grill differs from the Egg because of its dual-walled insulated steel cover. The cover lets you reach higher temperatures.
You may use it for all-day smoking like the Big Green Egg!
What Do You Do with an Old Weber?
If your Weber still works, consider donating it to a charity or giving it to someone to restore.
You may also upcycle it. The lids and bottoms of Weber grills are usable as fire pit liners or even planters.
Remember to contact your local solid waste authority and inquire about the best option in your area. Check out recycling options for your old grill on Earth 911.
Final Thoughts
So, which is better, the Big Green Egg or the Weber? The answer depends on your needs.
Big Green Eggs are more expensive than Webers, but they’re durable and multi-purpose. You should consider this brand if you want to invest in a grill that’ll last a lifetime.
Meanwhile, Webers are affordable and portable. If your goal is to have a no-fuss summer grilling tool, then Weber is for you.
There’s no doubt that both the Big Green Egg and Weber are quality outdoor cooking systems that are a pleasure to own and use!
Ben has a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering. When not constructing or remodeling X-Ray Rooms, Cardiovascular Labs, and Pharmacies, you can find him at home with wife and two daughters. Outside of family, He loves grilling and barbequing on his Big Green Egg and Blackstone Griddle, as well as working on projects around the house.
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