There’s a familiar story that plays out in backyards across the country every few years. It starts with a wobbly, rust-streaked grill that has developed frustrating hot spots, a failing igniter, and a grease trap that’s more of a fire hazard than a feature. You remember the day you bought it; it seemed like a bargain at the time. But after just a few seasons of battling flare-ups that char your chicken and uneven heat that leaves one burger raw while another is cremated, you realize the “bargain” has become a source of culinary frustration. This cycle of buying, using, and ultimately discarding mediocre grills isn’t just wasteful; it actively robs you of the joy of cooking outdoors. The promise of perfectly seared steaks and juicy, flavorful burgers is replaced by a game of chance. That’s the problem we set out to solve: to find a grill that isn’t a temporary appliance, but a permanent fixture of our outdoor kitchen—a reliable partner for years of memorable meals. That search led us directly to the Weber Genesis S-335 3-Burner Propane Grill, a unit that promises to break the cycle.
- Weber Stainless Steel Genesis Grill includes PureBlu burners with a unique, tapered design, creating a consistent flame and even heat across the grilling...
- Extra Grilling Space: An extra-large sear zone with intense heat ensures outdoor grill has room for you to cook multiple steaks and burgers at once; Want...
What to Consider Before Investing in a High-Performance Propane Grill
A propane grill is more than just an item for cooking hot dogs; it’s a key solution for anyone who values convenience, control, and consistent results in their outdoor cooking. Unlike charcoal, propane offers instant, adjustable heat at the turn of a knob, transforming a weekend project into a feasible weeknight dinner option. The main benefits lie in this precision and ease of use, allowing you to go from a low-and-slow heat for delicate fish to a roaring sear for a thick ribeye in seconds. It eliminates the lengthy pre-heating and messy cleanup associated with charcoal, making spontaneous barbecues a reality.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the frustrations of cheaper, less reliable grills. They are tired of uneven cooking, frequent replacement of rusted-out parts, and the general unreliability that turns a relaxing evening into a stressful one. They see grilling not just as a method of cooking, but as a hobby and a way to entertain friends and family. This product might not be suitable for those who grill only once or twice a year, or for individuals with extremely limited patio space who might be better served by a smaller, portable unit. For the serious home chef who values performance and longevity, a high-end propane grill is a worthy investment.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: A substantial grill like this requires a dedicated footprint on your patio or deck. Measure your available space carefully, accounting not only for the grill’s dimensions (57.7″W x 27″D) but also for safe clearance from combustible materials and enough room to comfortably open the lid and access the side tables and storage cabinet.
- Capacity/Performance: Think about how many people you typically cook for. The Weber Genesis S-335 3-Burner Propane Grill offers a generous primary cooking area, plus a sear zone and warming rack, making it ideal for families or small gatherings. Performance isn’t just about total BTUs; it’s about how efficiently that heat is delivered. Look for features like advanced burner systems and heavy-duty grates that ensure even heat distribution and retention.
- Materials & Durability: This is arguably the most important factor separating a 2-year grill from a 20-year one. Painted steel and lower-grade metals are prone to rust and degradation, especially when left outdoors. The full stainless steel construction of the S-335, from the cookbox to the grates and frame, offers superior resistance to the elements and promises a much longer lifespan, a sentiment echoed by countless long-time Weber owners.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A great grill should be a pleasure to use and simple to maintain. Look for features like a reliable ignition system, intuitive controls, and a smart grease management system. The pull-out grease tray on the Genesis is a massive improvement over older, messier designs, making cleanup quick and helping to prevent dangerous grease fires.
Making the right choice is about balancing your immediate needs with your long-term expectations for performance and durability.
While the Weber Genesis S-335 3-Burner Propane Grill is an excellent choice for a traditional grilling experience, the world of outdoor cooking has expanded significantly. For a broader look at different styles, especially the increasingly popular flat-top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- High-Heat Propane Gas BBQ Grill – This 4-burner gas grill with an additional 8,500 BTU side burner delivers a total of 46,500 BTU. Enjoy rapid...
- ❤ STAINLESS STEEL BURNERS: This propane gas grill has 3 Stainless Steel burners, can put out 30,000 BTU-per-hour with integrated piezoelectric ignition...
- Heavy-Duty Griddle Plate – Built with a 4mm thick, reinforced hot-pressed steel griddle that ensures excellent heat retention and durability. Perfect for...
First Impressions: Built Like a Stainless Steel Fortress
From the moment the components of the Weber Genesis S-335 3-Burner Propane Grill came out of the box, one thing was abundantly clear: this is a serious piece of equipment. The weight and gauge of the stainless steel used for the hood, doors, and side tables immediately inspire confidence. While assembly is required, the instructions are clear, and every part fits together with precision—no misaligned holes or frustrating rework needed. One user mentioned needing to make a few minor adjustments after a professional setup, which we found plausible; the key is that the core components are so well-machined that any small tweaks are simple.
Compared to countless other grills we’ve assembled over the years, which often feel flimsy and thin-walled, the Genesis feels monolithic. The heavy lid lifts smoothly and holds its position, and the control knobs turn with a satisfying, tactile resistance. This isn’t just a collection of metal parts; it’s an engineered system. The stainless steel cooking grates are hefty, promising excellent heat retention, and the enclosed cabinet provides a clean look while offering substantial storage space for tools and accessories. Our initial impression is that this grill is designed not just to cook well, but to endure.
What We Like
- Exceptional build quality with heavy-duty stainless steel construction
- PureBlu burner system provides incredibly even and precise heat distribution
- Extra-large dedicated sear zone for achieving perfect steakhouse crusts
- Excellent versatility with a side burner and WEBER CRAFTED compatibility
- Proven brand longevity, with users reporting over a decade of reliable use
Potential Drawbacks
- Premium price point makes it a significant initial investment
- Does not include a built-in propane tank scale or gauge
Deep Dive: A Masterclass in Grilling Performance
Putting the Weber Genesis S-335 3-Burner Propane Grill through its paces was less of a test and more of a revelation. This grill addresses the fundamental flaws present in so many of its competitors, focusing on the three pillars of great outdoor cooking: precise heat control, robust construction, and user-centric design. We pushed it with everything from delicate vegetables to thick-cut steaks to see if the performance lived up to the premium branding.
The Heart of the Machine: PureBlu Burners and the Quest for Even Heat
The single greatest point of failure for most gas grills is heat distribution. We’ve all experienced the frustration of a grill with “hot spots” that forces you to constantly shuffle food around to prevent burning some pieces while others remain undercooked. Weber tackles this head-on with their new PureBlu burner system, and based on our testing, it’s a resounding success. The unique tapered shape of the burner tubes is designed to equalize pressure from front to back, ensuring a consistent flame height along the entire length. The raised gas ports also help prevent grease and debris from causing clogs, a common issue that degrades performance over time.
In practice, this translated to one of the most even cooking surfaces we have ever tested. We covered the entire grate with burger patties and saw remarkably consistent cooking across the board. This finding was directly confirmed by a user who upgraded from a big-box store grill with “horrible hot spots,” stating that with the Genesis, “the heat is even and precise across the cooking surface.” This consistency is a game-changer. It means you can use the entire grilling area with confidence, knowing that everything will be cooked to perfection without constant monitoring and rearranging. It elevates the experience from a frantic juggling act to a controlled, enjoyable process. The addition of the extra-large sear zone, which provides a concentrated blast of intense heat, is the perfect complement. We were able to lay down four large ribeyes simultaneously and achieve a deep, flavorful crust on each one without steaming them—a feat many lesser grills struggle with. It’s a feature that truly sets it apart for steak lovers.
An Investment in Durability: Stainless Steel Construction That Lasts
Weber’s reputation is built on longevity, and the Weber Genesis S-335 3-Burner Propane Grill is a testament to that legacy. The entire unit, from the cookbox and lid to the frame and flavorizer bars, is constructed from high-quality stainless steel. This isn’t just for looks; it’s about withstanding years of exposure to heat, grease, and the elements. The stainless steel FLAVORIZER Bars are a key part of the system. They sit directly above the burners, catching drips and vaporizing them into flavorful smoke that infuses the food, while also protecting the burners from grease, which prevents flare-ups and extends their life.
This commitment to quality materials is why you see user reviews mentioning their previous Weber grills lasting 12, 15, or even 25 years. One user noted, “Weber is more expensive; however, the product will outlast the competition thereby increasing the value.” This is the core philosophy we subscribe to. Spending more upfront for a grill that will serve you reliably for over a decade is far more economical and satisfying than replacing a cheaper model every three to four years. While one user questioned the presence of “some plastic parts,” we found these to be limited to non-critical, cosmetic components like wheel casters or knob bezels, which do not impact the structural integrity or cooking performance of the grill. The core cooking system is pure, heavy-duty metal, and it feels built to be a permanent backyard fixture. You can see its full feature set and detailed specifications online.
Beyond the Basics: Smart Design and Unmatched Versatility
A great grill should do more than just grill. The S-335 shines in its thoughtful design features that expand its culinary horizons. The integrated side burner is a perfect example. We used it to sauté onions and mushrooms for our burgers and to keep a side of BBQ sauce warm, freeing up stove space in the kitchen and keeping the entire meal preparation outdoors. It’s a simple feature that dramatically increases the grill’s utility.
Another standout feature is the enclosed Grill Locker. This isn’t just a flimsy front panel; it’s a proper storage cabinet with enough space for large items like griddles, beer can chicken roasters, or baskets of wood chips. It keeps your most-used accessories protected from the elements and conveniently within arm’s reach. Furthermore, the compatibility with the WEBER CRAFTED Outdoor Kitchen Collection is a brilliant move towards modularity. By swapping out a section of the cooking grate with the frame kit (sold separately), you can drop in custom-fit grillware like a pizza stone, flat-top griddle, or roasting basket. This transforms the grill from a singular appliance into the hub of a versatile outdoor kitchen. Paired with the easy-to-clean grease management system, every aspect of the grill feels intentionally designed to make the cooking experience more enjoyable and less of a chore.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general consensus among users mirrors our own findings: the Weber Genesis S-335 3-Burner Propane Grill is a top-tier product that justifies its price through performance and durability. Many reviews come from previous Weber owners who are upgrading after more than a decade of service from their old model. One user happily reported their last Weber “lasted 12 years and still was going strong.” This theme of longevity and long-term value is the most common point of praise.
Users consistently highlight the “even and precise” heat, calling the grill “built like a tank.” Another new owner, who upgraded from a cheaper brand, said, “I can say without a doubt that weber made me a believer! Everything ive cooked on it has come out perfect and delicious.” The few criticisms we found were minor in comparison. The most notable was the lack of a propane weight gauge, a feature some competitors include. While not a dealbreaker, it is a surprising omission on a premium model, requiring users to manually check their tank level. However, the overwhelming sentiment is that the core cooking performance and build quality far outweigh any small feature omissions.
How the Weber Genesis S-335 Compares to the Competition
The Weber Genesis S-335 3-Burner Propane Grill operates in a competitive space, but its focus on quality sets it apart. While it excels as a primary, high-performance backyard grill, different needs may call for different solutions. Here’s how it stacks up against some notable alternatives.
1. Masterbuilt MB20030819 Portable Propane Grill
- 288 square inches of total cooking surface
- 10,000 BTU stainless steel U shaped burner for maximum heat distribution
The Masterbuilt Portable Propane Grill is designed for a completely different purpose. Its compact size and folding legs make it the ideal companion for tailgating, camping, or for those with very small balconies where a full-sized grill is not feasible. While it can’t match the sheer cooking area, heat control, or advanced features of the Weber, it offers solid performance in a package you can easily fit in your car trunk. If portability is your number one priority, the Masterbuilt is an excellent choice. However, for a permanent backyard setup, the Weber offers vastly superior durability, capacity, and cooking versatility.
2. Monument Grills Mesa415BZ 4+1 Propane Gas Grill
- PORCELAIN-ENAMELED CAST IRON GRATES : Achieve optimal flavor with our durable, easy-to-clean porcelain-enameled cast iron grates, ensuring even heat...
- ADVANCED SEAR-REACH UP TO 650F° In 10 MINUTES: Unlike conventional burners with side flame holes, this sear zone showcases U-shaped fire holes at the...
The Monument Grills Mesa415BZ represents a value-oriented alternative for those who need a large cooking surface on a tighter budget. With four main burners plus a side burner, it offers more raw cooking space than the Weber. It’s a compelling option for very large families or those who frequently entertain big crowds. The trade-off, however, typically comes in the form of materials and long-term durability. While it also features stainless steel, it may not be of the same gauge or quality as the Weber, and its burner system may not provide the same level of precision and evenness. This grill is for the buyer prioritizing size and a lower initial cost, whereas the Weber is for the buyer prioritizing build quality and refined performance.
3. Concord 16″ Single Banjo Wok Burner with Stand
- Concord Professional 16" Stronghold burners are capable to putting out up to 270,000 BTU and are built like tanks. This is part of our professional series,...
- This is our DROP IN WOK Edition, this means that there is a custom built wok ring that allows you to drop your 11" or wider wok into the burner. Drop in...
The Concord Wok Burner is not a grill at all, but a highly specialized outdoor cooker. It’s designed to produce an incredibly high, focused heat (up to 270,000 BTU) that is perfect for wok stir-frying, home brewing, or large-pot cooking like a crawfish boil. It excels at tasks that a traditional grill simply cannot perform. A user would choose the Concord burner to supplement their outdoor kitchen with high-heat capabilities, not to replace their primary grill. It’s an “and” product, not an “or” product when compared to the Weber Genesis S-335, which is the all-around workhorse for traditional grilling, searing, and roasting.
The Final Verdict: Is the Weber Genesis S-335 Worth It?
After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is unequivocal: the Weber Genesis S-335 3-Burner Propane Grill is a phenomenal piece of outdoor cooking equipment. It is a premium product with a premium price tag, but it delivers on every promise. The build quality is exceptional, promising a service life measured in decades, not seasons. The PureBlu burner system provides the even, controllable heat that is the foundation of all great grilling. And thoughtful features like the sear zone, side burner, and WEBER CRAFTED compatibility make it a versatile and expandable hub for any backyard chef.
This grill is not for the casual user who fires up a grill twice a summer. It is for the enthusiast, the entertainer, and the person who is tired of the frustrating cycle of replacing inferior grills. It is an investment in quality, consistency, and countless future meals shared with family and friends. If you’re ready to stop buying disposable grills and invest in the last one you may ever need, we can’t recommend it highly enough. To explore this exceptional grill further, you can check the latest price and secure yours today.
Last update on 2025-11-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API