The Weber Spirit EX-325 delivers impressive searing performance with its upgraded sear zone that boosts burner power by 40%. Reviewers praised its removable grease tray, reversible porcelain-enameled grates, and snap-on accessory system. The grill weighs 98 pounds and includes a sturdy metal lid handle, though the plastic wheels are noted as a weak point. While assembly is straightforward when following instructions, some users reported delays due to rushing. It's ideal for small families and weeknight grilling, offering steakhouse-level results at a sub-$500 price point.
Full review
Sear zone performance
The new sear zone on the Weber Spirit EX-325 delivers a noticeable power boost that significantly enhances grilling capabilities. This enhanced performance allows for more effective searing, creating better grill marks and achieving higher surface temperatures for faster cooking. The sear zone burners are specifically designed to provide concentrated heat, making it easier to achieve that characteristic char and crispiness on meats like steaks and chicken. The ability to reach such high temperatures quickly makes this feature particularly valuable for cooks who want restaurant-quality results at home.
Testing confirmed that the sear zone works effectively for achieving the desired level of doneness and texture. When using the sear zone, ribeye steaks cooked in six minutes achieved a perfect medium-rare result, which was slightly faster than expected due to the increased heat. The sear zone also proved effective for indirect grilling, where one burner was set to high and the others to low, creating a temperature gradient that allowed for even cooking and the ability to finish foods with a final char. This versatility means that users can take advantage of the sear zone for both direct and indirect cooking methods, depending on their needs and preferences.
Assembly and build quality
Assembly of the Weber Spirit EX-325 requires approximately an hour if done carefully, though some users have reported taking closer to an hour and a half due to misreading instructions or rushing the process. The grill's core cooking chamber clips into place, which streamlines the assembly process, but some users noted that certain parts are nearly identical, leading to potential confusion during setup. The build quality otherwise appears solid, with the grill weighing 98 pounds, providing stability without being overly cumbersome for its size.
The overall construction includes a cast aluminum cooking chamber that is designed to last with proper maintenance, and the stainless steel burners offer durability and consistent performance. However, the plastic wheels included are considered flimsy by some users, though they are deemed acceptable for stationary use. The grill's side shelves fold down and include two tool hooks each, and the new snap-on accessory system allows for customization with items like beverage holders and spice racks. The lid features a metal handle instead of plastic, which improves the overall feel and longevity of the unit. The inclusion of a removable grease tray and drip pan system makes cleanup significantly easier compared to previous models, which required scraping into narrow catch basins.
Cooking performance and heat distribution
The heat distribution across the cooking surface was found to be even, with minimal variation from left to right, allowing for consistent cooking results. The 360 square inch primary cooking area combined with a 90 square inch warming rack provides ample space for preparing meals, and the dual-sided cast iron grates offer versatility in cooking techniques.
The grill's performance was tested with various foods including ribeye steaks, chicken wings, and pork chops. Steaks cooked in six minutes achieved ideal medium-rare doneness, while chicken wings were finished with a good char after indirect cooking. The sear zone was particularly effective for achieving crisp edges and better browning on meats. Some users noted that the middle gap between the grates was slightly larger than expected, which could affect heat retention. However, this was not considered a major issue, and the overall cooking performance remained strong. The inclusion of a large drip tray section that pulls out easily allows for quick cleanup and prevents grease buildup, which is a significant improvement over previous models.
Design and accessory integration
The design of the Weber Spirit EX-325 incorporates several user-friendly features that enhance the grilling experience. The lid includes a metal handle instead of plastic, improving durability and feel. The side shelves fold down and feature two tool hooks each, providing convenient storage for grilling tools and accessories. The new snap-on accessory system allows users to customize their grill with items such as beverage holders, spice racks, and additional tool hooks, offering flexibility for different cooking needs. The cart design includes enclosed storage space for the propane tank on the right side and small accessories on the left, which helps keep the workspace organized and efficient.
The removable grease tray and drip pan system is a notable upgrade that simplifies cleanup. Users can easily pull out the drip pan for disposal and reuse the aluminum liner multiple times before replacement. The grill's storage unit is designed to hold the propane tank securely, while the left side provides space for barbecue supplies and equipment. The inclusion of a lid thermometer is standard, though some users noted that digital temperature readings would be more accurate. The overall aesthetic maintains Weber's signature look while incorporating practical improvements that make the grill more user-friendly and adaptable to various grilling scenarios.
Cleanup and maintenance
The removable drip pan system significantly improves cleanup efficiency compared to previous Weber models. Users can easily pull out the drip pan for disposal, and the aluminum liner can be reused multiple times before requiring replacement. The design allows for quick access to grease and debris without the need for scraping or extensive cleaning. The cast aluminum cooking chamber is built to last with proper maintenance, and the porcelain-enameled cast iron grates provide a durable cooking surface. However, some users noted that the cast iron grates may require seasoning or oiling to prevent food from sticking, similar to a Blackstone griddle. The overall maintenance requirements are minimal, with the main upkeep involving periodic cleaning of the drip pan and checking the burner connections.
The ease of cleaning was highlighted as a major improvement over older models, where scraping into narrow catch basins was required. The new system allows for straightforward disposal of grease and food debris, making the process less time-consuming and more hygienic. Users also appreciated the ability to remove the entire drip pan for thorough cleaning, which helps maintain the grill's performance and longevity. The removable grease tray is particularly useful for those who grill frequently, as it prevents buildup and reduces the risk of flare-ups. The overall design promotes good hygiene and makes regular maintenance more manageable for busy cooks.
Strengths
- +Features a sear zone that increases burner power by 40%
- +Includes a removable grease tray and drip pan system for easy cleanup
- +Sturdy metal lid handle instead of plastic for better durability
- +Snap-on accessory system for adding tools, spice racks, or beverage holders
Watch-outs
- −Plastic wagon wheels feel cheap and could be more durable
- −Assembly requires following instructions carefully to avoid delays
How it compares
The Weber Spirit EX-325 offers a sear zone that boosts burner power by 40%, which the E-325 lacks, but it's more expensive and has plastic wheels that the E-325 avoids. Unlike the E-335, it includes a snap-on accessory system and a removable grease tray, but it's less spacious and lacks the side tables that make the E-335 more family-friendly. The EX-325 is ideal for those who want steakhouse-level searing without the high-end price tag.
Rating sources
“This thing was awesome. The digital thermometer worked instantly to give me the results and the reading that I needed.”
Our 4.5 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
