Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Portable Grills

Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill vs Weber Smokey Joe Premium

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill and Weber Smokey Joe Premium score essentially the same (4.3 vs 4.3). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill
Ranked #2 in Best Portable Grills
Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill
3 sources$424.99as of Oct 24

The Coleman RoadTrip 285 delivers substantial thermal power through three independent burners that create distinct temperature zones, allowing simultaneous searing and warming. OutdoorGearLab found the heat distribution remarkably consistent, while Topnotchoutdoor awarded the generous 285-square-inch cooking grate a perfect score for its ability to handle large groups without overcrowding. The InstaStart push-button ignition ensures reliable lighting, and quick-fold legs with built-in wheels facilitate rolling transport across flat surfaces like parking lots or campsite pads. However, the unit weighs approximately 49 lbs, making it cumbersome for hiking, and thin metal construction raises durability concerns regarding rust on components like the water tray. Its bulky folded dimensions also require significant trunk or truck-bed storage space. This grill fits tailgating, car camping, and small patio use where cooking capacity is prioritized over lightweight portability, but users seeking a backpacking companion should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — Three independently adjustable burners provide distinct temperature zones for searing and warming simultaneously.
  • — Generous 285 square inch porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grate offers ample space for groups.
  • — InstaStart push-button ignition system enables reliable, matchless lighting.
Watch-outs
  • — Heavy weight of approximately 46 to 49 lbs makes it cumbersome for hiking or carrying long distances.
  • — Thin metal construction and rust-prone parts, particularly on the water tray, raise durability concerns.
  • — Bulky packed dimensions require significant trunk or truck-bed storage space.
Weber Smokey Joe Premium
Ranked #3 in Best Portable Grills
Weber Smokey Joe Premium
2 sources$226.31as of Oct 24

The Weber Smokey Joe Premium delivers durable, rust-resistant cooking via its porcelain-enameled steel bowl and lid, which retain heat effectively across its 147 sq in surface. Grillwizardoz found that the compact footprint fits four burgers or two steaks, while Expert Reviews highlighted the Tuck-N-Carry lid lock as a key feature for secure transport and convenient handling during use. However, the single bottom vent restricts fine airflow tuning compared to full-size kettles, limiting precise temperature control for low-and-slow smoking sessions. This model suits couples or small families seeking portable charcoal grilling for tailgates or camping, but those requiring advanced smoke management should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — Porcelain-enameled steel bowl and lid provide durable, rust-resistant construction that retains heat effectively.
  • — Tuck-N-Carry lid lock secures the lid for transport and doubles as a convenient lid holder during use.
  • — Lightweight design at approximately 10 lbs (5.48 kg) allows for easy one-handed carrying to campsites or tailgates.
Watch-outs
  • — Single bottom vent restricts airflow fine-tuning compared to full-size kettle grills with dual vents.

How they stack up

Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill

The Coleman RoadTrip 285 provides three independent burners and a 285 sq in cooking area, offering far more versatility than the single-burner Weber Traveler's 320 sq in surface. Although it is heavier at roughly 49 lbs compared to the Cuisinart Grillster's 10 lbs, it allows simultaneous searing and warming zones that lighter models cannot match.

Weber Smokey Joe Premium

The Weber Smokey Joe Premium utilizes charcoal for authentic smoky flavor, contrasting with the propane systems of the Coleman Fold N Go + Propane Grill. While its single bottom vent restricts airflow fine-tuning compared to dual-vent full-size models, it offers a secure Tuck-N-Carry lid lock that many open-frame portable grills lack.

Specs side-by-side

SpecColeman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane GrillWeber Smokey Joe Premium
Weight49.0 lbs10 lbs
Cooking Area285 sq in147 sq in
BTU Output20,000—
Fuel Type1 lb propane, adapter for 20 lb tankCharcoal
Burner Configuration3 independent—
MaterialPorcelain-coated cast ironPorcelain-enameled steel
Dimensions39.0"L x 14.0"D x 19.0"H36 x 42 x 43cm (WDH)
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