Grilling season at my place isn’t a casual affair—it’s a weekly ritual that demands a reliable grill. Over the past few months I’ve rotated between two Weber favorites: the Spirit E-325 and the Genesis E-335. They share that unmistakable Weber build quality, yet each caters to slightly different backyard chefs. After many rounds of burgers, briskets, and late-night veggie skewers, here’s how they truly stack up.
Key Difference at a Glance: Weber Spirit E-325 vs Genesis E-335 Propane Grill
The Spirit E-325 is Weber’s mid-range, three-burner workhorse designed for focused grilling in a compact footprint. The Genesis E-335 moves into premium territory with a larger cooking area, a dedicated side burner, and compatibility with Weber’s Crafted Outdoor Kitchen accessories. Think of the E-325 as your dependable sedan and the E-335 as the feature-packed SUV.
- Weber Black Genesis Grill includes PureBlu burners with a unique, tapered design, creating a consistent flame and even heat across the grilling surface; Raised...
Quick Comparison Table: Weber Spirit E-325 vs Genesis E-335 Propane Grill
| Feature | Weber Spirit E-325 | Weber Genesis E-335 |
| Dimensions | 26.6″ D × 48.3″ W × 46.2″ H | 27″ D × 57.7″ W × 48.1″ H |
| Burners | 3 main | 3 main + 1 side |
| Sear Zone | Boost Burners, 40% more power | Extra-large sear zone with PureBlu burners |
| Cooking Grates | Porcelain-enameled cast iron | Porcelain-enameled cast iron |
| Extras | Weber Works side rails, stainless steel Flavorizer bars | Side burner, storage locker, Weber Crafted frame kit compatibility |
| Warranty | 10-year limited | 10-year limited |
| Weight | Approx. 114 lbs | Approx. 187 lbs |
| Check Latest Price | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review
Design & Build
The Spirit E-325 fits neatly on a modest patio. Its cast-aluminum cook box resists rust, and the porcelain-enameled grates look new after months of use. The Weber Works side rails let me snap on accessories like extra hooks and a bottle holder—handy when I’m juggling tongs and a cold drink.
The Genesis E-335 is a step up in size and presence. Its wider stance provides more prep room, while stainless-steel side tables feel sturdier and easier to wipe down after saucy ribs. The storage locker beneath is a quiet hero, swallowing larger tools and a griddle plate with room to spare.
- Weber Black Genesis Grill includes PureBlu burners with a unique, tapered design, creating a consistent flame and even heat across the grilling surface; Raised...
Ease of Use
Both models fire up instantly thanks to Snap-Jet-style ignition (Weber calls it slightly different things, but the experience is the same: turn the knob and it lights). The Spirit reaches cooking temp quickly and distributes heat evenly across all three burners.
The Genesis adds a digital thermometer that’s visible even when I’m across the yard—a small detail that saves constant lid lifting. Its PureBlu burners create a consistent flame and resist clogging, which matters when you grill as often as I do.
Performance & Functions
On pure grilling performance, the Spirit E-325 impresses with its Boost Burners. Searing steaks over that concentrated heat zone produces restaurant-worthy crusts. It’s perfect when I’m grilling for four to six people.
The Genesis E-335 ups the ante. The extra-large sear zone means I can sear multiple ribeyes simultaneously, and the side burner is invaluable for simmering sauces or sautéing mushrooms without leaving the deck. When friends come over, the extra surface area is a lifesaver.
- Weber Black Genesis Grill includes PureBlu burners with a unique, tapered design, creating a consistent flame and even heat across the grilling surface; Raised...
Cleanup & Maintenance
Both grills share Weber’s grease-management system—a large drip pan with a slide-out tray that makes cleanup a two-minute job. The Genesis tray is slightly bigger, but functionally they’re identical. After repeated weekend use, neither shows rust or peeling.
Weber Spirit E-325 Propane Grill
Pros:
- Compact footprint, perfect for smaller patios
- Powerful Boost Burners for excellent searing
- Weber Works side rails for modular accessories
- Simple ignition and even heat
Cons:
- No side burner for sauces or sides
- Lacks digital temperature readout
- Limited storage compared to Genesis
Weber Genesis E-335 Propane Grill
- Weber Black Genesis Grill includes PureBlu burners with a unique, tapered design, creating a consistent flame and even heat across the grilling surface; Raised...
Pros:
- Larger cooking surface and extra-large sear zone
- Integrated side burner for multitasking
- Digital thermometer and PureBlu burners for steady flame
- Storage locker fits bulky accessories and Weber Crafted gear
Cons:
- Bigger size demands more patio space
- Higher price point
- Heavier, less portable if you move it often
My Recommendation:
After weeks of alternating between these two, here’s my verdict:
Choose the Weber Spirit E-325 if you’re a weeknight griller or have a smaller outdoor space. It’s efficient, quick to heat, and delivers that signature Weber flavor without overwhelming your deck.
Opt for the Weber Genesis E-335 if entertaining is your norm or you love culinary variety. The side burner, expanded sear zone, and storage make it a full outdoor kitchen. For big gatherings or ambitious meals, it’s worth every extra inch and dollar.
Both grills share Weber’s ten-year warranty and solid craftsmanship, so you’re covered either way. For me, the Genesis E-335 wins when I’m hosting a crowd, but on quiet evenings the Spirit E-325 remains my trusty, space-saving favorite.
