Weber has been making charcoal grills for over 70 years. The Performer 22-Inch is their most practical take on the classic kettle design. The key upgrade is the Gourmet BBQ System hinged cooking grate. It lets you lift the center grate to add charcoal mid-cook without removing the entire surface. That matters when you’re searing steaks and need a quick heat boost.

The 22-inch diameter gives you 363 square inches of cooking space. That fits about 13 burgers or a whole chicken comfortably. The built-in lid thermometer is reliable and keeps you from lifting the lid to check temperature. The One-Touch cleaning system uses a simple aluminum blade that sweeps ash into a removable catcher below. It takes about 30 seconds to clean. The fold-down side table is sturdy enough to hold a platter of food or a cutting board. Three tool hooks keep tongs and spatulas within reach.

The porcelain-enameled bowl and lid hold heat well, even in windy conditions. The Tuck-Away lid holder is a small detail that saves counter space. The glass-reinforced nylon handle stays cool to the touch. One limitation: the ash catcher is aluminum and can dent if dropped. But it’s easy to replace. For weekend cooks who want kettle performance with better workflow, the Performer delivers without fuss.