Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill review portable and lightweight option for outdoor cooking

Description

Portable and Lightweight Design

The Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill lives up to its name by being incredibly portable and user-friendly. I found the compact rectangular shape a game-changer when loading it into my car for a weekend camping trip. Compared to bulkier grills, this one is a breeze to transport, thanks to its lightweight 14-pound frame. Despite its compact size, the grill doesn’t compromise on stability. The sturdy legs fold up neatly to lock the lid in place during transit, which makes it feel secure when carrying it around. I also appreciated the painted finish, which gave it a sleek and durable appearance—even after a few uses in rugged outdoor conditions.

Cooking Performance That Packs a Punch

Grilling on this charcoal-fueled beauty was an absolute delight. With a 160-square-inch cooking surface, I managed to cook burgers, hot dogs, and even some veggies for a small group without feeling cramped. The two-piece cooking grate design is pure genius—it not only allows you to add more charcoal mid-cook but also makes cleaning up afterward much easier. The heat distribution was consistent, and thanks to the char-rail insert, I could easily arrange coals for indirect cooking. This little feature added versatility, letting me sear steaks on one side while slow-cooking chicken on the other.

Ideal for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Whether you’re tailgating, camping, or simply enjoying a sunny day at the park, this grill is a fantastic companion. Its free-standing installation type means you can set it up virtually anywhere. I used it during a backyard barbecue and was impressed by how quickly it heated up and retained heat. Despite its single-level grill configuration, it manages to cater to a small crowd of 2-4 people without skipping a beat. The plastic handle stays cool to the touch, which is a thoughtful detail when you’re adjusting the lid mid-grill.

Positives

This grill has several key benefits that stood out during my testing:

• Extremely portable and lightweight, making it perfect for travel.
• Efficient heat distribution, thanks to the charcoal setup.
• Durable painted finish that holds up well to outdoor use.
• Compact yet spacious grilling area, ideal for small groups.

Areas of Improvement

While the grill performed admirably, there are areas for improvement worth noting:

• The grilling surface is best suited for smaller portions, which might not work for larger gatherings.
• Assembly is required, and while it’s straightforward, it’s something to keep in mind.
• No built-in thermometer, so temperature monitoring requires extra effort.

Product Competitors

Comparing this to rival brands like the Cuisinart CCG-190 Portable Charcoal Grill, it’s clear the Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill excels in portability and durability. The Cuisinart model, while lighter, doesn’t feel as sturdy or secure during transport. Another well-known contender, the Lodge Sportsman’s Grill, offers a heavy-duty cast iron build but falls short in terms of portability and ease of cleaning. What sets the Weber apart is its versatile cooking system and the ingenious two-piece grate, which neither competitor offers.

Affordable Quality

Given the performance and features packed into this grill, it offers excellent value for money. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the durability, convenience, and cooking versatility make it well worth the investment. If you’re someone who enjoys frequent outdoor cooking and needs a reliable, compact solution, this grill is a solid choice. It balances cost efficiency with quality, ensuring you’re not just getting a product that works but one that lasts.

Additional information