Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Portable Grills

Cuisinart Grillster 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

Weber Smokey Joe Premium comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.3 vs 4.0). Weber Smokey Joe Premium is best for: Couples or small families seeking lightweight charcoal portability for tailgates and camping. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Cuisinart Grillster
Ranked #5 in Best Portable Grills
Cuisinart Grillster
1 source$117.62as of Oct 24

OutdoorGearLab found that the Cuisinart Grillster reaches searing temperatures exceeding 600°F, hitting 720°F after ten minutes of operation. Thebest-grills.com noted that this single-burner configuration produces surprisingly even heat distribution across the 146 sq in grate when preheated properly. Cookingdownhome highlighted that the unit requires no assembly and is ready to use in under five minutes, while also confirming the dishwasher-safe enameled steel cooking grate simplifies cleanup. However, OutdoorGearLab explicitly identified poor heat range control as a major drawback, noting the grill struggles significantly when attempting to cook items requiring gentle, indirect heat. Homepatiolawn observed that the single-burner design inherently limits multi-zone cooking control, preventing users from creating cool zones for slow-cooking thicker cuts simultaneously with searing. This product fits quick cookouts where all items can withstand high heat but is unsuitable for extended sessions involving varied ingredients or delicate foods.

Strengths
  • — Reaches searing temperatures exceeding 600°F with a single 8,000 BTU burner
  • — Tool-free assembly allows setup in under 5 minutes
  • — Dishwasher-safe enameled steel cooking grate simplifies cleanup
Watch-outs
  • — Struggles to maintain low temperatures suitable for delicate foods
  • — Single burner limits volume and multi-zone cooking control
  • — Quick deterioration of the grill surface noted in long-term use
Weber Smokey Joe Premium
Higher ratedRanked #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

Cuisinart Grillster

The Cuisinart Grillster reaches searing temperatures exceeding 600°F, outperforming the Weber Smokey Joe Premium's charcoal-based heat retention for quick high-heat tasks.

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

SpecCuisinart GrillsterWeber Smokey Joe Premium
Weight10 lbs10 lbs
Cooking Area146 sq in147 sq in
BTU Output8,000—
Fuel TypeLiquid propaneCharcoal
Burner Configurationsingle burner—
Materialstainless-steel bodyPorcelain-enameled steel
Dimensions20.5"L x 12.0"D x 10.2"H36 x 42 x 43cm (WDH)
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