Weber Spirit I vs. Spirit II: What are the differences? These are considered some of the best Weber grills on the market. They were released in 2018 and offer various innovative features that make grilling a seamless adventure.
While these grills are different, they do have some similarities. For example, they both offer 360 sq in primary + 90 secondary. They also both provide the same heat output of 26,500 BTU/hr. However, to take your grilling to the next level, consider upgrading from the Weber Spirit I to the Spirit II. There are innovative upgrades that will change everything about how you grill.
This guide explores the differences between these grills regarding features, price, and how often you should grill with either one. You'll have a better idea of which one suits how often you grill and what you grill.
- 4-serving meals starting at $3.77 per serving (up to 25% cheaper than HelloFresh).
- Incredible variety with 10+ weekly meal options, delivered directly to you.
- Easy to prepare meals ready in 30-minutes or less.
What Is a Weber Grill?
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Before diving into the Weber Spirit I and Spirit II, it's essential to know some context and history behind this brand. For starters, it's one of the oldest grilling brands. It came out in the late 1800s and popularized in the mid-1900s.
The Weber offers charcoal, gas, and pellet grills. They also provide different grills with different features, from smoker box and burner infusing food to expandable grates for more cooking room. The Weber is also one of the most affordable, especially if you want the simple charcoal grill that can range from $50 to $100.
However, if you upgrade your Weber to the Genesis I or II, you'll find that they start around $800, depending on what features are part of the grill. A deeper dive into these grills can give you a better idea of what is best for you.
Weber Spirit I vs. Spirit II: How Are They Different?
Subtle differences between the Weber Spirit I and Spirit II make them unique. They can make grilling easier.
- 4-serving meals starting at $3.77 per serving (up to 25% cheaper than HelloFresh).
- Incredible variety with 10+ weekly meal options, delivered directly to you.
- Easy to prepare meals ready in 30-minutes or less.
For instance, the Weber Spirit I has an open cart, while the Spirit II has a closed cabinet. While this may not seem like a big deal, it depends on how you like the design of either one. The design change also relocated the propane tank from underneath the grill to the side of the grill. This may make changing out the propane tank easier since you don't have to get down on your knees to do it.
Another difference is the collapsable tables. The original Weber Spirit I has dual collapsible tables, while the Weber Spirit II only allows one collapsible side.
Some of the best upgrades are found in the Weber Spirit II. For example, you'll find that this grill has a Flavorizer bar design, which allows you to see the flames more distinctly. It also has a better grease design, better burner tubes, and a longer-lasting ignition system. Overall, it's an improvement over the Weber Spirit I.
Another benefit of the upgraded Weber model is the warranty. There's a ten-year warranty on the Weber Spirit II, while the Weber Spirit I has a ten-year warranty on select items.
When it comes to specifications, there are also differences between these grills. Here's a list of the specifications for the Weber Spirit I
- Burners: Two Primary Burners
- Primary Grilling Area: 360 square inches
- Grate: Porcelain enameled cast iron
- Warming Rack Area: 90 square inches
- Heating Capacity: 26,500 BTU/hr
- Dimensions: 44.5″H X 48″W X 27″D
- Weight: 103 pounds
Here's a list of the specifications for the Weber Spirit II
- Burners: Three Primary Burners
- Primary Grilling Area: 424 square inches
- Warming Rack Area: 105 square inches
- Cooking Grate: Porcelain enameled cast iron
- Heating Capacity: 30,000 BTU/hr
- Dimensions: 44.5″H X 52″W X 27″D
- Weight: 114 pounds
Tips for Grilling With the Weber Spirit I and the Spirit II
Whatever grill you decide to get, you should know the best tips to help your grill last longer. For example, preheat the grill for fifteen minutes and then scrub the inside with a soft bristle brush. This allows the debris to come off more easily.
- 4-serving meals starting at $3.77 per serving (up to 25% cheaper than HelloFresh).
- Incredible variety with 10+ weekly meal options, delivered directly to you.
- Easy to prepare meals ready in 30-minutes or less.
Beyond cleaning, a pro tip for grilling is allowing your Weber Spirit I or Spirit II to properly heat up before using. When you do this, your meat won't be as tough when cooked. You want to avoid having your meat sit on the grill because it can cause it to stick.
Weber Spirit I vs. Spirit II: What's the Better Choice?
The Weber Spirit I and Spirit II are excellent grills. They can grill ribs, hamburgers, brisket, and anything else you love to barbecue. However, knowing how they are different can give you a better idea of what's best for your home. The subtle differences can help you decide whether to upgrade from the Weber Spirit I to the Spirit II.
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