Choosing the right gas grill can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available under $400. This review compares three popular models – the Weber Spirit E210, Char-Broil Performance, and Monument Mesa – to help you make an informed decision. We put each grill through a rigorous series of tests, evaluating key aspects like build quality, cooking performance, ease of use, and overall value. From searing capabilities to low-temperature cooking and even cleaning convenience, we've covered all the bases to provide a comprehensive comparison.This in-depth analysis delves into the specifics of each grill, highlighting both their strengths and weaknesses. We examined factors such as size and portability, material durability, cooking grate performance, temperature control, and the inclusion of features like side burners. Our detailed assessment will help you determine which grill best suits your needs and budget, whether you prioritize superior build quality, exceptional searing power, or ease of maneuverability. Read on to discover which grill reigns supreme in the sub-$400 category.
Pros And Cons
- Thickest cook chamber material
- Most sturdy shelves
- Easiest to move (second easiest)
- Best low temperature control
- Tallest cooking interaction height
- Easiest to clean
- Best warranty
- Only two wheels
- Smaller upper rack
- Average searing ability
- Best searing ability
- Side burner
- Most accessories available
- Least sturdy shelves
- Hardest to move
- Poor wind resistance
- Uneven cooking
- Average cleaning
- Average warranty
- Easiest to move
- Best wind resistance
- Simplest controls
- Thinnest cook chamber material
- Least sturdy shelves
- Poor low temperature control
- Uneven cooking
- Difficult to clean
- Small flavorizer bars
Read more: Top 10 Blue Rhino Gas Grills: Reviews & Buying Guide
Grill Size and Weight
The three grills under consideration—Weber Spirit E210, Char-Broil Performance, and Monument Mesa—vary significantly in size and weight. The Weber and Monument are heavier, impacting portability. Size considerations are important for patio space.
The Weber Spirit E210 (90 lbs, 48"W x 46"H x 26.5"D) and Monument Mesa (90 lbs, 55"W x 45.5"H x 22"D) are substantial. The Char-Broil Performance (72 lbs, 50"W x 45"H x 20"D) is slightly lighter and more compact.
Build Quality and Materials
Build quality is crucial for longevity. The Weber boasts the thickest cook chamber walls (cast aluminum), followed by the Monument (stainless steel), with the Char-Broil trailing significantly.
Material choice impacts durability and heat retention. Weber's cast aluminum construction shows superior build quality compared to the stainless steel of the Monument and Char-Broil.
Side Shelves and Grill Stability
All three grills feature side shelves (approximately 17" x 13"), but stability varies considerably. The Weber shelves proved the sturdiest, followed by the Char-Broil, while the Monument's were the least stable.
Sturdy side shelves are essential for prep work. The Weber's superior stability makes it more convenient for food preparation and serving.
Storage and Tool Hooks
Storage is limited to propane tank concealment; none offer ample space for grilling tools. The Char-Broil uses a unique door-mounted tool holder, while the Weber and Monument have tool hooks.
The design of the tool hooks impacts functionality. The Weber and Monument's hooks might not accommodate all tools effectively.
Mobility and Wheels
Portability varies; the Char-Broil is easiest to move due to its lighter weight and wheel design. The Weber's two-wheeled design requires lifting, while the Monument's wheels are less maneuverable.
Wheel design significantly affects ease of movement. The Char-Broil's plastic wheels, although less durable, offer better maneuverability than the Weber's or Monument's.
Cooking Grates and Capacity
Cooking grate materials and capacity differ. Char-Broil offers stainless steel grates, while Weber and Monument use porcelain-coated cast iron. The Weber unexpectedly held the most burgers in the practical test.
Grate material affects heat distribution and cleaning. Stainless steel (Char-Broil) is easier to clean but may not retain heat as well as cast iron. Weber's unexpected capacity win highlights its effective design.
Upper Rack and Cooking Height
Upper racks' size and accessibility vary. The Char-Broil and Monument offer more substantial upper racks than the Weber, which is smaller. The cooking height is also a factor, with Weber slightly taller (36" vs. 35").
The upper rack's size impacts its usability. The Char-Broil and Monument offer more space for indirect cooking or warming, while the Weber's is less practical.
Ease of Control and Temperature Monitoring
Control dials are standard on all grills, but the range of control varies. The Char-Broil offers the widest range (180°), followed by the Weber (135°), and the Monument (90°). Temperature monitoring relies on hood gauges; only the Monument includes a viewing window.
The range of control impacts precise temperature adjustments. The Char-Broil's wider range allows for more fine-tuned temperature control. The Monument's window provides better visual monitoring of food.
High Heat Searing Performance
Searing performance was tested using flank steak. The Monument Grill reached the highest temperature (over 750°F in 15 minutes) and produced the best sear in the shortest time.
High-heat performance varied significantly. The Monument's superior heat output resulted in a superior sear, while the Char-Broil and Weber took longer and produced less intense searing.
Low Temperature Control and Wind Resistance
Low-temperature control and wind resistance were also evaluated. The Weber demonstrated the best low-temperature control (around 300°F), followed by the Monument and Char-Broil.
Wind resistance testing showed the Char-Broil performed best, maintaining relatively consistent temperatures even with wind. The Weber showed better wind resistance than the Monument.
Indirect Cooking and Evenness of Heat Distribution
Indirect cooking capabilities were assessed. All three grills could be used for indirect cooking, but their design isn't ideal for retaining heat. The bread test revealed uneven heat distribution in the Char-Broil and Monument, while the Weber showed the most even cooking.
Even heat distribution is crucial for consistent cooking results. The Weber’s superior evenness demonstrates its better design for consistent low-temperature cooking.
Multi-Functional Use and Accessories
Multi-functional features were considered, primarily side burners. The Monument and Char-Broil have side burners (12,000 BTU and 10,000 BTU respectively); the Weber lacks one. Accessory availability varied.
Accessories enhance functionality. The Monument and Weber offer a wider range of accessories, expanding their capabilities beyond basic grilling.
Ease of Cleaning and Warranty
Cleaning ease is crucial. Weber's grates and drip tray were easiest to clean. The Monument was second, and the Char-Broil proved the most challenging. Warranty lengths and coverage also differed significantly.
Warranty terms affect long-term value. Weber's 10-year warranty on key components is superior to the Char-Broil's 5-year and Monument's 8-year (limited coverage) warranties.
Flavor and Price
Flavor depends on grate material and flavorizer bars. The Monument's design provides more extensive flavorizer bars, potentially leading to better flavor development compared to the Weber and Char-Broil.
Price points are similar for the Weber and Monument ($399), with the Char-Broil slightly lower ($349). Considering features, build quality, and performance, the price reflects value differently across the models.
Overall Conclusion and Winner
The Weber Spirit E210 emerges as the winner, earning a total score of 150 out of 230, excelling in build quality, warranty, low-temperature control, and ease of cleaning. While the Monument Mesa performs well in searing and offers more features, the Weber's overall consistency across various tests makes it the superior choice.
The Char-Broil Performance comes in last but still offers features like good mobility and wind resistance at a lower price point. The choice ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences; these reviews highlight strengths and weaknesses to inform purchasing decisions.
