There’s something special about charcoal grilling — that authentic smoky flavor, the satisfying sizzle, and the freedom to cook anywhere outdoors. For years, Weber has dominated this space with compact and travel-friendly grills like the Smokey Joe and the Go-Anywhere. I’ve personally used both models on road trips, picnics, and weekend camping, and while they share the same Weber DNA, their personalities couldn’t be more different.
If you’re torn between these two portable powerhouses, this hands-on comparison will help you decide which one deserves a spot on your next adventure.
Key Difference Between Weber Smokey Joe vs Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill
The main difference between the Weber Smokey Joe and the Weber Go-Anywhere lies in their design and cooking setup.
- The Smokey Joe features the classic round kettle design, offering deep heat circulation ideal for burgers, steaks, and even small roasts.
- The Go-Anywhere, on the other hand, takes a rectangular approach, giving it a more “tabletop grill” feel, great for skewers, sausages, and evenly spaced grilling.
Simply put, the Smokey Joe feels like a mini backyard grill, while the Go-Anywhere acts like a portable barbecue station.
- The Weber Smokey Joe Portable Charcoal Grill has a durable-plated, steel cooking grate, crafted from premium steel for enhanced durability; Cooking grate offers...
- Holds up to six burgers made with a Weber burger press
Comparison Table: Weber Smokey Joe vs Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill
| Features | Weber Smokey Joe | Weber Go-Anywhere |
| Design | Classic round kettle | Rectangular box design |
| Cooking Area | ~147 sq. in. | ~160 sq. in. |
| Material | Porcelain-enameled steel | Porcelain-enameled steel |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal | Charcoal |
| Weight | Around 9.5 lbs | Around 14 lbs |
| Portability | Extremely lightweight | Compact with locking lid and side handles |
| Air Control | Single damper | Two lid dampers and bowl vents |
| Ash Management | Aluminum ash catcher | Easy clean-up with foil pans |
| Capacity | Up to 5 burgers | Up to 6 burgers |
| Best For | Solo grilling, couples, travel | Small families, road trips, tailgating |
| Check Latest Price & Deals | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Detailed Comparative Review
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Design & Build Quality
Both models carry Weber’s trademark durability, but their designs cater to different use cases.
The Smokey Joe’s rounded kettle design gives it that nostalgic backyard charm. It’s built with a porcelain-enameled lid and bowl, which retain heat beautifully and resist rust or peeling even after years of use. Despite its compact size, the shape allows for excellent air circulation — perfect for cooking thicker cuts evenly.
The Go-Anywhere, on the other hand, looks more rugged and modern. Its rectangular body not only saves space in your trunk but also provides a more stable surface when cooking on uneven ground. The legs cleverly lock the lid in place for transport — something I found surprisingly convenient during beach trips.
If you prefer a traditional grill feel, Smokey Joe wins here. But if you value portability and smart storage, Go-Anywhere takes the crown.
- The Weber Smokey Joe Portable Charcoal Grill has a durable-plated, steel cooking grate, crafted from premium steel for enhanced durability; Cooking grate offers...
- Holds up to six burgers made with a Weber burger press
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Ease of Use
In terms of setup, the Smokey Joe is as simple as it gets — just load charcoal, light it, and you’re ready to go. The single damper system is easy to control, though it requires a bit of practice to fine-tune airflow for low-and-slow cooking.
The Go-Anywhere, however, offers more precise control. With two lid dampers and bowl vents, I was able to maintain consistent heat for longer sessions. This is especially helpful when cooking chicken or ribs that need gentle, even heat.
Both models start up quickly, but the Go-Anywhere provides better flexibility if you enjoy adjusting temperatures mid-cook.
- The Weber Smokey Joe Portable Charcoal Grill has a durable-plated, steel cooking grate, crafted from premium steel for enhanced durability; Cooking grate offers...
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Cooking Performance
Performance-wise, both grills deliver that signature Weber sear and smoke flavor.
The Smokey Joe’s round design creates a natural convection flow, which helps cook food evenly without frequent flipping. Its deep bowl also lets you pile up charcoal for high-heat grilling — perfect for searing steaks or getting that crispy burger crust.
The Go-Anywhere, while slightly shallower, impressed me with its spacious layout. The rectangular grate easily fits longer foods like hotdogs, kebabs, or corn on the cob. Plus, the dual-damper setup helps maintain steady heat across the entire cooking area, reducing hot spots.
If you’re cooking for one or two people, Smokey Joe is unbeatable for simplicity. But if you’re feeding three to four people, Go-Anywhere gives you that extra space and control.
- Holds up to six burgers made with a Weber burger press
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Portability & Storage
Portability is where both shine — but in different ways.
The Smokey Joe is lighter (under 10 lbs) and easy to carry with one hand. It fits effortlessly in the trunk or even the back seat, making it ideal for quick getaways. However, the round shape can be a bit awkward to pack alongside other gear.
The Go-Anywhere feels more structured for travel. Its lid-locking legs and side handles make it secure to move, even with leftover charcoal inside. The rectangular shape also stacks neatly with coolers and picnic baskets — something I really appreciated on long road trips.
So, for ultra-portable solo trips, go with Smokey Joe. For organized packing and longer adventures, Go-Anywhere wins.
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Maintenance & Cleanup
Both models are low-maintenance by design.
The Smokey Joe includes an aluminum ash catcher, which works fine for small sessions but can fill up quickly during longer cooks.
The Go-Anywhere doesn’t have a dedicated ash catcher, but I found cleanup easier thanks to its flat bottom and optional foil pans that catch drippings. The grates on both are plated steel — durable, heat-retaining, and simple to clean with a brush.
In real-world use, the Go-Anywhere has a slight edge in cleaning convenience, especially if you use foil liners.
Weber Smokey Joe Charcoal Grill
- The Weber Smokey Joe Portable Charcoal Grill has a durable-plated, steel cooking grate, crafted from premium steel for enhanced durability; Cooking grate offers...
Pros:
- Lightweight and extremely portable
- Classic kettle design with great heat retention
- Easy to set up and use
- Rust-resistant porcelain enamel build
- Perfect for small meals or quick grilling sessions
Cons:
- Limited cooking space
- No lid lock for travel
- Single damper offers less airflow control
Weber Go-Anywhere Portable Charcoal Grill
- Holds up to six burgers made with a Weber burger press
Pros:
- Smart rectangular design fits easily in cars
- Lid locks securely for transport
- Two dampers provide better heat management
- Slightly larger cooking area
- Stable legs and handles make it safe to use anywhere
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than Smokey Joe
- Less depth for piling charcoal
- No built-in ash catcher
Conclusion: My Verdict
After testing both grills on multiple trips, here’s my honest take:
If your priority is lightweight simplicity, the Weber Smokey Joe remains unbeatable. It’s perfect for impromptu cookouts, solo campers, or anyone who values traditional kettle-style cooking in a travel-friendly package.
But if you want better control, secure transport, and more space, the Weber Go-Anywhere is the smarter choice. Its locking lid, dual dampers, and rectangular grate make it far more versatile for various dishes and longer cook sessions.
In short:
- Choose Smokey Joe if you love the classic Weber charm and quick, no-fuss grilling.
- Choose Go-Anywhere if you crave control, portability, and versatility.
Both grills deliver Weber’s signature flavor and durability — it just depends on how (and where) you love to grill.
