weber go anywhere grill vs jumbo joe

Weber Go-Anywhere vs Jumbo Joe: Portable Grill Showdown

By William DavisApril 21, 2026

When it comes to portable grills, two names often rise to the top: Weber's Go-Anywhere and Char-Griller's Jumbo Joe. Both are popular choices for their durability, performance, and portability. But which one is the better fit for your grilling needs? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Before we delve into the specifics, let's briefly explore what makes these grills stand out. The Weber Go-Anywhere is known for its compact size, robust construction, and excellent heat retention. On the other hand, the Char-Griller Jumbo Joe offers a larger cooking area, a side fire box for smoking, and a more affordable price point.

Design and Portability

The Weber Go-Anywhere is the clear winner when it comes to portability. Its compact size (20.5" x 12.2" x 14.5") and lightweight design (14.5 lbs) make it incredibly easy to carry, whether you're heading to the beach, a tailgate party, or a camping trip. It also comes with a convenient lid lock for secure transportation.

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While the Jumbo Joe is also portable, its larger size (23.5" x 21" x 15.3") and heavier weight (37.4 lbs) make it less convenient for carrying long distances. However, it's still manageable for most outdoor activities and offers more cooking space.

Cooking Area

The Jumbo Joe offers a larger cooking area with 220 square inches of space, compared to the Go-Anywhere's 160 square inches. This makes it a better choice for grilling for larger groups or cooking larger cuts of meat.

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Despite its smaller size, the Go-Anywhere's cooking area is still sufficient for grilling for 2-4 people. Its unique design also allows it to be used as a tabletop grill, making it a great option for small balconies or apartments.

Construction and Durability

Both grills are built to last, but the Weber Go-Anywhere has a slight edge in terms of construction quality. Its porcelain-enameled lid and body provide excellent heat retention and are resistant to rust and peeling. The grill grates are also made of high-quality, durable steel.

The Jumbo Joe is also well-built, with a sturdy steel body and cast iron grates. However, some users have reported issues with the paint chipping over time. Both grills come with a 10-year warranty, but the Weber's superior construction gives it an edge in terms of longevity.

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Features and Performance

The Weber Go-Anywhere offers excellent heat control with its infinite heat control valve, allowing you to adjust the temperature with ease. It also features a built-in thermometer on the lid for accurate temperature readings.

The Jumbo Joe, on the other hand, offers a side fire box for smoking, making it a versatile option for those interested in smoking meats. It also features two adjustable dampers for heat control. However, it lacks a built-in thermometer, which some users might find inconvenient.

Ease of Use

The Weber Go-Anywhere is incredibly easy to use, with its simple push-button ignition system and easy-to-adjust heat control valve. It also assembles in minutes and is ready to use right out of the box.

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The Jumbo Joe is also user-friendly, with a simple charcoal chimney starter system and adjustable dampers. However, its larger size and heavier weight make it less convenient to set up and move around compared to the Go-Anywhere.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Both grills are easy to clean, with their porcelain-enameled surfaces and removable ash catchers. However, the Weber Go-Anywhere's smaller size makes it easier to clean and maintain.

The Jumbo Joe's larger size means it can hold more ash, but its removable ash pan makes cleaning a breeze. Both grills require minimal maintenance, with occasional oiling of the grates and seasoning to prevent rust.

In the end, the choice between the Weber Go-Anywhere and Char-Griller Jumbo Joe depends on your specific needs. If portability and ease of use are your top priorities, the Weber Go-Anywhere is the clear winner. However, if you're looking for more cooking space and smoking capabilities, the Char-Griller Jumbo Joe might be the better choice. Both grills offer excellent performance and durability, making them great investments for any grilling enthusiast.