Weber Smokey Mountain 18 vs 22
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Are you looking for a high-quality smoker that can help you cook delicious meat and vegetables? If so, you might want to consider the Weber Smokey Mountain. This smoker is available in two sizes: 18 inches and 22 inches.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Weber Smokey Mountain 18 vs 22 and help you decide which one is best for your needs.
Weber Smokey Mountain 18
The Weber Smokey Mountain 18 is a mid-sized smoker that is perfect for small to medium-sized families. Here are some of the key features of this smoker:
- 481 square inches of cooking space
- Two plated steel cooking grates
- Porcelain-enameled bowl, lid, and water pan
- Built-in lid thermometer
- Rust-resistant aluminum fuel door
- Glass-reinforced nylon handles
This smoker is easy to use and produces delicious results. It’s also easy to transport, making it a great choice for tailgating or camping trips.
Last update on 2024-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Weber Smokey Mountain 22
The Weber Smokey Mountain 22 is a larger smoker that is perfect for big families, parties, or catering events. Here are some of the key features of this smoker:
- 726 square inches of cooking space
- Two plated steel cooking grates
- Porcelain-enameled bowl, lid, and water pan
- Built-in lid thermometer
- Rust-resistant aluminum fuel door
- Glass-reinforced nylon handles
This smoker is perfect for those who want to cook large cuts of meat or multiple items at once. It’s also great for those who want to cook for a large group of people.
Last update on 2024-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Comparison Table
| Feature | Weber Smokey Mountain 18 | Weber Smokey Mountain 22 |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Space | 481 square inches | 726 square inches |
| Portability | Easy to transport | Bulkier and harder to transport |
| Price | More affordable | More expensive |
| Cooking Experience | Great for small to medium-sized families | Great for large cuts of meat and multiple items at once |
TL;DR
If you have a small to medium-sized family and plan on transporting your smoker, the Weber Smokey Mountain 18 is the better choice.
However, if you plan on cooking for a large group of people and have the space to store a larger smoker, the Weber Smokey Mountain 22 is the way to go.
Both the Weber Smokey Mountain 18 and 22 are high-quality smokers that will help you cook delicious meals.
Cooking Space
One of the most significant differences between the Weber Smokey Mountain 18 and 22 is the cooking space. The Weber Smokey Mountain 18 has a cooking area of 481 square inches, while the Weber Smokey Mountain 22 has a cooking area of 726 square inches. That means the Weber Smokey Mountain 22 has 50% more cooking space than the Weber Smokey Mountain 18.
If you’re cooking for a large family or entertaining guests, the Weber Smokey Mountain 22 might be a better option. With the extra cooking space, you can cook more food at once, which means less time spent cooking and more time spent enjoying your meal with your family and friends.
On the other hand, if you’re cooking for a smaller family or just yourself, the Weber Smokey Mountain 18 might be a better option. It’s more compact and easier to store, and you won’t have to worry about wasting space on a larger smoker that you won’t use to its full potential.
Both the Weber Smokey Mountain 18 and 22 are excellent smokers that can help you create delicious, smoky meals. However, the cooking space is a significant factor to consider when deciding which one to purchase.
Portability and Storage
When it comes to portability and storage, the Weber Smokey Mountain 18 and 22 have some differences to consider.
The Weber Smokey Mountain 18 is the smaller of the two models and is more compact, making it easier to transport. It weighs approximately 47 pounds and has a cooking area of 481 square inches. This size is perfect for small families or if you plan to take it on camping trips or tailgating events. Additionally, the 18-inch model is easier to store, as it takes up less space in your garage or storage area.
On the other hand, the Weber Smokey Mountain 22 is a larger model that weighs approximately 68 pounds and has a cooking area of 726 square inches. This size is perfect for larger families or if you plan to host parties or events. However, due to its larger size, it can be more difficult to transport and store. You may need a larger vehicle or storage space to accommodate this model.
Both models come with durable handles that make them easier to carry, and the legs can be removed for easy storage. However, if portability is a top priority, the Weber Smokey Mountain 18 is the better option. If you plan to use the smoker primarily in your backyard, the Weber Smokey Mountain 22 is a great choice.
Price and Value
One of the most significant differences between the Weber Smokey Mountain 18 and 22 is the price. The 18-inch model is usually cheaper than the 22-inch model. The price difference can range from around $50 to $100, depending on the retailer and current promotions.
While the 22-inch model is more expensive, it also offers more cooking space, which may be worth the extra cost for some buyers. However, for those who don’t need the additional space, the 18-inch model might be the better value.
In terms of overall value, both models are highly regarded for their quality and durability. They are built to last and are backed by Weber’s excellent customer service. Additionally, the Smokey Mountain line is known for its excellent smoking capabilities, making them a great investment for BBQ enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the decision between the Weber Smokey Mountain 18 and 22 comes down to personal preference and needs. If you need more cooking space and don’t mind paying a bit extra, the 22-inch model might be the better choice. However, if you’re on a budget or don’t need the extra space, the 18-inch model is an excellent value.
Accessories and Upgrades
Both the Weber Smokey Mountain 18 and 22 come with a decent set of accessories that allow you to get started right away. However, there are a few upgrades and accessories that can help you take your smoking game to the next level.
One popular upgrade for both models is the addition of a BBQ Guru temperature controller. This device helps regulate the temperature inside the smoker, making it easier to maintain a consistent temperature for long periods of time. The BBQ Guru can be especially helpful for overnight cooks or when cooking large cuts of meat.
Another popular accessory is the addition of a charcoal ring. This accessory helps keep the charcoal in a more confined space, which can help with temperature control and also make it easier to add more charcoal during longer cooks.
If you plan on smoking a lot of ribs or other meats that require hanging, you may want to consider purchasing a set of hanging hooks. These hooks can be used to hang meat from the top rack of the smoker, allowing for more efficient use of space and ensuring that the meat is evenly cooked on all sides.
Finally, both models can benefit from the addition of a high-quality thermometer. While the built-in thermometer is decent, a more accurate thermometer can help ensure that your meat is cooked to perfection every time.
Conclusion
After comparing the Weber Smokey Mountain 18 and 22, it is clear that both models are excellent choices for BBQ enthusiasts. The 18-inch model is perfect for smaller families or those with limited outdoor space, while the 22-inch model is better suited for larger gatherings or those who frequently smoke larger cuts of meat.
When it comes to price, the 18-inch model is more affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget. However, the 22-inch model offers more cooking space, which can be a valuable investment for those who entertain frequently.
Both models are made with high-quality materials and are built to last, ensuring that you will be able to enjoy delicious smoked meats for years to come. The Weber Smokey Mountain is a reliable and versatile smoker that can handle a wide range of cooking temperatures and techniques, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced pitmasters.
Ultimately, the decision between the Weber Smokey Mountain 18 and 22 will come down to your individual needs and preferences. Whether you opt for the smaller or larger model, you can rest assured that you will be getting a top-of-the-line smoker that will deliver delicious, smoky results every time.