The Weber Spirit E-310 is a well-regarded gas grill that delivers even cooking performance, according to reviewers like CNET's Megan Wollerton. It features a GS4 High Performance Grilling System, a propane tank scale, and tool hooks for organization. While it's priced at $599, it lacks a side burner and has fewer burners than some competitors, making it a premium option that may not offer the best value for money. It's ideal for those who prioritize quality and performance over quantity.
Full review
Three burners for precise control
The Weber Spirit E-310 features three main burners that deliver 30,000 BTUs of heat across a 424-square-inch cooking area. This configuration allows for effective multi-zone cooking, enabling users to sear steaks at high temperatures while simultaneously grilling vegetables or side dishes at lower heat levels. Testers noted that the grill's three temperature control knobs provide intuitive adjustment for each burner, making it easy to manage different cooking zones. The burners are designed with a tapered system that optimizes heat distribution, which reviewers found to be effective in practice. The grill's ability to maintain consistent heat across all burners was particularly appreciated by users who needed reliable performance for both searing and slow cooking tasks.
Quick heating and efficient ignition
One of the standout features of the Weber Spirit E-310 is its rapid heating capability, which was demonstrated during testing when users were able to begin cooking within minutes of turning the grill on. The ignition system, part of the GS4 High Performance Grilling System, generally worked reliably, though some users reported occasional issues with the first attempt at ignition. The grill's quick preheat time makes it ideal for weeknight cooking when time is limited. Testers noted that the ignition system performed eight times out of ten during initial testing, with the remaining attempts requiring a second try. The system's reliability was seen as a significant improvement over previous models, though not flawless. The ease of lighting the grill was consistently praised, with users appreciating that the ignition button on the front panel made it simple to start cooking without the need for matches or lighters.
Compact design with ample storage
Despite its three-burner configuration, the Weber Spirit E-310 maintains a compact footprint that makes it suitable for small backyards or patios. The enclosed cart design provides storage space for the propane tank on the right side and small accessories on the left, which was appreciated by users who valued organization. The grill includes two built-in wheels for easy mobility, though moving it requires at least two people due to its weight of 114 pounds. The design includes folding side shelves that can be extended for food prep space, and each shelf has tool hooks for hanging grilling accessories. The storage area for the propane tank includes a built-in gauge that allows users to monitor gas levels at a glance, preventing unexpected fuel depletion during cooking sessions.
Cast iron grates with porcelain enamel coating
The Weber Spirit E-310 features porcelain-enamelled cast iron grates that offer superior heat retention and easy cleaning. The grates are reversible, with one side featuring flat surfaces and the other side having pointed ridges that create distinctive grill marks on food. Users appreciated the durability of the porcelain coating, which protects the cast iron from rust and wear. The grates were tested with various foods including steaks, chicken, and vegetables, and reviewers found that they maintained even heat distribution across the cooking surface. The enamel coating made cleaning easier compared to bare cast iron, as food residue could be wiped away rather than scraped off. Testers noted that the grates were particularly effective for searing steaks, achieving good browning and crisp edges while maintaining even heat throughout the cooking process. The coating's resistance to chipping or flaking was also observed during extended use testing.
Performance in various cooking scenarios
During testing, the Weber Spirit E-310 demonstrated solid performance across a range of cooking tasks, from quick weeknight meals to more elaborate gatherings. Testers were able to sear steaks at 500 degrees in just two minutes per side, with a four-minute covered cook between sears. The grill handled low and slow cooking well, with users successfully preparing baby back ribs at 225 degrees for two hours. Whole chicken was cooked at 350 degrees for 45 minutes, with consistent results and even cooking throughout. The grill's ability to maintain temperature control was particularly praised during extended cooking sessions. Users noted that the grill's three-burner setup allowed for simultaneous cooking of different food items at varying temperatures, making it efficient for family meals. The warming rack, which provides an additional 105 square inches of cooking space, was useful for keeping cooked food warm while preparing additional items.
Assembly and user experience
Assembly of the Weber Spirit E-310 was described as straightforward, though it required a helper due to the number of components involved. Testers found that the instructions were clear and well-organized, with most users completing the assembly within an hour. The packaging was noted for being well-designed, with parts carefully organized and labeled, though some users reported that unpacking took nearly 20 minutes. The build quality was consistently praised, with reviewers noting the sturdy construction and solid feel of the grill. The metal lid handle was described as more substantial than previous models, contributing to the overall durability of the unit. Users appreciated the enclosed cart design, which provided storage for the propane tank and small accessories. The grill's overall user experience was considered positive, with reviewers noting that the combination of quick heating, precise temperature control, and reliable performance made it suitable for both casual and regular use.
Comparison to similar models
When compared to other grills in the same price range, the Weber Spirit E-310 offers several advantages over competitors like the Char-Broil Performance XL and Broil King Baron S520. While the Char-Broil Performance XL offers five burners and a side burner for less money, it lacks the premium features and build quality of the Weber Spirit E-310. The Broil King Baron S520 provides more burners and cooking space but costs more and requires more experience to operate effectively. The Weber Spirit E-310's three-burner configuration strikes a balance between functionality and space efficiency, making it ideal for smaller households or those with limited outdoor space. The inclusion of a propane tank scale and the optional integration with the Weber iGrill 3 temperature probe were noted as premium features that justify the higher price point. Users found that the Spirit E-310's performance and reliability exceeded expectations, particularly when compared to older Weber models or less expensive alternatives.
Strengths
- +Cooking performance is even and consistent
- +Sturdy construction with durable trays and hooks
- +Includes useful propane tank scale for gas level visibility
- +Features a GS4 High Performance Grilling System with updated burners
Watch-outs
- −Expensive for a grill with only three main burners
- −No side burner included
How it compares
The Weber Spirit E-310 provides a GS4 system and a built-in propane scale that the E-210 lacks, but it's more expensive and lacks a side burner. Unlike the E-425, it doesn't have a digital temperature readout, but it offers more consistent cooking performance. The E-310 is more premium than the E-325 in terms of build quality, but lacks the large cooking area and side tables that make the E-325 more versatile.
Rating sources
Our 4.0 score is the average of the 3 scored reviews above; 3 more reviewed it without printing a score and are not in the average. More about methodology.
