Whether you’re buying it for the first time or replacing an old model, choosing a gas grill for yourself is serious business. The decision requires a lot of time and consideration. However, if you don’t have that much time or the relevant information, we can make the process a bit easier. When it comes to gas grills, you need to look no further than Weber. To make it even better read, we have compared it with Genesis, in this Weber Spirit vs Genesis comparison.
Inspired by the shape of a buoy, George Stephen was the first one to introduce revolutionary kettle-style grills in 1952. He went on to establish Weber and make it one of the most innovative and best brands today.
Weber Spirit vs Genesis: A Detailed Comparison
If you did even a quick search on Weber and their range of gas grills, you would have noticed two names: Weber Spirit and Weber Genesis. Both are gas grill series with their own range of models and signature Weber qualities. They were initially introduced in the previous century, but since then, Weber has launched their second versions: Spirit II and Genesis II.
So, which one is the best for you? Well, the short answer is that if you can’t afford a higher price tag, then the Spirit is better. However, if you’re willing to pay a little extra for more features and convenience, Genesis is the one. If you want to know what we mean precisely, keep on reading.
The Spirit II series includes two models: E-210 and E-310.
Whereas, the Genesis II series consists of nine models: E-310, S-310, E-315, E-330, E-335, S-335, E-410, E-435, and S-435.
The Genesis II LX series has been discontinued for 2019. We’ll discuss both series’ models briefly first and then look at the similarities. Finally, we’ll see the key differences between Spirit and Genesis to help you choose wisely.
Weber Spirit
Both models in this series are high-quality grills that offer good value for money. They might lack some of the features that you’ll find in the Genesis models. However, they do have Weber’s signature GS4 grilling system and iGrill 3 compatibility, which we’ll elaborate on later. Moreover, both models come in various colors and with the option to choose between natural gas and liquid propane.
#1. Weber Spirit II E-210 2-Burner Liquid Propane Grill
The E-210 model has a small yet sleek construction that is designed to fit easily into small spaces. It weighs 103 pounds, which, along with the wheels, makes it easy to move. It has two stainless steel burners which have a combined input of 26,500 BTU per hour. The total cooking area is 450 square inches, which can comfortably feed three to four people.
It has porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates and a porcelain-enameled lid. Furthermore, it has two side tables of which the left one can be folded down when there isn’t space. It has an open cart design and six tool hooks which provide ample storage space. There is a built-in lid thermometer and an easy to read fuel gauge as well for the liquid propane versions.
#2. Weber Spirit II E-310 3-Burner Liquid Propane Grill
The E-310 is pretty similar to the E-210. It has all the same features, such as the side tables, hooks, wheels, etc. However, it has more cooking capacity than the previous model. The E-310 has three stainless steel burners which have a total input of 30,000 BTU per hour. The cooking area is also more significant at a total of 529 square inches.
Read about it here for a more detailed review.
Weber Genesis
The Genesis series has much more features than the Spirit line, which is reflected in the prices as well. There are also more models to choose from so you can pick the one that suits your needs the best. All the models have the GS4 grilling system and iGrill3 compatibility. Some models have color options.
Within the Genesis series, you’ll find either three-burner models or four-burner models. We’ll discuss under those categories and then a little bit about what makes the models different.
Three Burners
This includes the E-310, S-310, E-315, E-330, E-335, and S-335 model. All these models have three stainless steel burners which have a combined input of 39,000 BTU per hour. They have a total cooking area of 669 square inches, which can accommodate up to 20 Weber Burger Press burger patties.
Other than that, all the models have the basic grill features that were present in the Spirit line as well. For example, they have side tables, durable wheels, tool hooks, built-in thermometers, and easy-to-read fuel gauges. Besides that, each model has some extra features too.
For instance, the E-330, E-335, and S-335 have additional sear stations and side burners with inputs of 9000 and 12000 BTU per hour, respectively. Similarly, the S-310 and S-335 have 7mm diameter solid stainless steel rod cooking grates.
Four Burners
This category includes the E-410, E-435, and S-435 model. All of them have four stainless steel burners which have a combined input of 48,000 BTU per hour. They have a massive cooking area of 844 square inches, which can serve up to 28 Weber Burger Press burger patties. Besides that, they have all the typical grill features found in other Weber grills.
Moreover, similar to before, these models also have various special features. For example, the E-410 has an open cart design while the S-435 has 7mm diameter solid stainless steel rod cooking grates.
Main Similarities
No matter which direction you decide to go, there are a few things that will remain constant. These are quality and performance. Whether you go for Spirit or Genesis, you’ll get superior quality and exceptional performance either way. Weber ensures this through the GS4 grilling system, iGrill3 compatibility, and 10-year warranty.
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GS4 Grilling System
The GS4 grilling system consists of four components.
- Infinity Ignition System
- High-Performance Burner Tubes
- Stainless Steel Flavorizer Bars
- Grease Management System
Together, these components ensure that you have the easiest grilling procedure which allows you to focus more on grilling rather than continually fidgeting with the grill. The infinity ignition system will enable you to ignite and fire up your grill quickly with just a push of a button. The new burner tubes are designed to have better and more even heating.
Moreover, the flavorizer bars are constructed in such a fashion that it catches more of the drips and smokes it to give your meat the best flavor. The grease management system makes the cleaning up afterward a quick and straightforward process.
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iGrill 3 Compatible
All of these Weber grills are iGrill 3 compatible. iGrill 3 is Weber’s very own thermometer which you can directly mount to the grill. The thermometer can be connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth. You can then monitor your grill and meat temperatures on the iGrill 3 app on your smartphone from anywhere inside your house.
The app has various features like recipes, timers, and alarms. It’s available for both Android and iOs users. However, the thermometer has to be purchased separately.
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10-year Warranty
Both Weber series come with 10-year warranties. This is something you will rarely find in other brands. Moreover, until a while ago, even Weber used to offer only a 2-year warranty. Fortunately, both Spirit and Genesis now have a 10-year warranty. This includes all the components within the gas grill as well.
Weber Spirit vs Genesis: Key Differences
You’ve probably gotten a rough idea of which series is better for you. However, in case you didn’t, we’ll make the difference clear so that you know which is better for you in the Weber Spirit vs Genesis battle. Basically, there are three key differences.
- First, the Genesis series has more features which provide a better experience overall. For instance, if you compare the Spirit II E-310 with the very basic Genesis II model E-310, you’ll notice the difference right away. The Genesis model has a higher BTU input, larger cooking area, swivel locking casters, infinite control burner valves, and more.
This might not seem significant to some people, but for people who take their grilling and BBQ seriously, these factors make a big difference. So, if you’re not exactly an enthusiast or someone who grills regularly, the Spirit series will be more suitable.
- Second, the Spirit line has only two and three-burner models, which offer limited cooking area and capacity. The Genesis, in comparison, offers more. Therefore, if you’re someone who has to serve a large group of people, you’ll be better off with a Genesis model.
- Third, and you might have figured this out yourself, the Genesis line is more expensive than the Spirit line. This makes sense considering all the extra features. Therefore, if you’re on a budget, Spirit is the way to go.
Weber Summit
If neither, Spirit or Genesis, strike you as your type of grill, there is another option. Within Weber’s gas grill series, you also have the option of Weber Summit. This series also has multiple models to choose from. However, all of them are super expensive as this series includes high-end models that are loaded with features.
The Summit E-470 model alone has various extra features. For instance, it has lighted control knobs, handle lights, snap-jet individual burner ignition system, grill cabinet, LED fuel gauge, and much more.
Conclusion
Hopefully, by now you would have been able to solve the whole Weber Spirit vs Genesis confusion in your mind. While both series have excellent models, we personally love the Genesis line more. Considering the fact that you don’t buy a grill very regularly, and won’t even need to with Weber, a Genesis with all its impressive features will be more useful in the long run.
It is worth the extra cost. However, if you are on a budget, you won’t regret the Spirit line either.
Last Updated on August 6, 2020 by Judith Fertig
Brian says
What is the deal with the Spirit E-315 ?
Home Depot has it, but it’s not on Weber’s website.
It has some different features than the E-310.