Quick Summary:
Price: $1,499.00
Pros
- Powerful grilling performance with four burners and a sear station
- Versatile with a side burner for additional cooking options
- Large cooking area suitable for entertaining
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Easy to clean with stainless steel grates
Cons
- Higher price point compared to other models in the Genesis series
- Assembly can be time-consuming due to the grill’s size and features
As an experienced backyard griller, I was excited to put the Weber Genesis S-435 4 Burner Natural Gas Grill Stainless Steel to the test. Known for its high performance and popularity among grill enthusiasts, especially those who cook for large groups, my expectations were sky-high. From the moment I unboxed it, the grill’s sleek stainless steel design stood out. Not only did it look professional and modern, but it also felt sturdy and well-built. It was clear from the start that this grill was designed to last, which was a promising sign.
After years of grilling, I've come to appreciate the importance of durability and functionality in outdoor cooking equipment, and the Weber Genesis S-435 seemed to check all the boxes. I was ready to see how this top-tier grill would perform, and it did not disappoint.
Setting Up the Weber Genesis S-435
The first thing that pleasantly surprised me was how relatively easy it was to assemble the Weber Genesis S-435. Having assembled multiple grills in the past, I was prepared for a lengthy process, but the clear, step-by-step instructions made things run smoothly. While it wasn’t a quick task (it took me about two hours), the parts fit together perfectly, and there were no missing components or frustrating moments. The only tricky part was handling the size of the grill—it's a substantial piece of equipment—but having an extra set of hands made things easier. Once fully assembled, the grill felt robust, with no wobbling or instability. It was ready to go, and I had full confidence in its long-term durability.
Design and Build Quality
One of the main reasons I was drawn to the Weber Genesis S-435 was its superior build quality. The stainless steel finish gives it a polished, high-end appearance, but the benefits go far beyond aesthetics. The durable construction ensures that this grill can withstand harsh weather conditions and remain rust-free for years to come.
The design is also highly functional. The grill’s large cooking area is perfect for those who often host large gatherings or cook for big families. With four powerful burners, the heat distribution across the surface is impressively even, eliminating the dreaded hot spots that can ruin a meal. In addition to its ruggedness, the stainless steel is easy to clean and maintain, which is a huge plus for frequent grillers like me.
Cooking Power and Performance
The Weber Genesis S-435 boasts an impressive cooking power. Its four main burners generate a total of 48,000 BTUs, which allows the grill to heat up quickly and maintain high temperatures with ease. During my first grilling session, I was able to cook multiple dishes at once without any temperature drops, and it only took a few minutes to reach the desired heat level.
One of my favorite features is the 9,000 BTU sear station burner, which is perfect for achieving restaurant-quality sear marks on steaks and other meats. If you're a steak lover like me, you'll appreciate this feature—it delivered some of the best grill marks I’ve seen.
Additionally, the grill includes a 12,000 BTU side burner, which I found incredibly useful for preparing side dishes like sauces and sautéed vegetables. This makes it easy to cook entire meals outdoors without needing to juggle space inside the kitchen. The side burner adds versatility, making this grill more than just a barbecue—it’s a complete outdoor cooking station.
Ease of Use and Convenience
From lighting the grill to adjusting cooking temperatures, the Weber Genesis S-435 is designed with convenience in mind. The electronic ignition system works flawlessly, igniting the burners with ease every time. The controls are intuitive, allowing for quick adjustments to cooking temperatures, making it simple to switch between high-heat searing and low-and-slow cooking.
The storage options on this grill are also impressive. The spacious enclosed cabinet provides plenty of room to store grilling tools, propane tanks, or any accessories you might need. The large side tables offer additional prep space, and the attached tool hooks keep everything within reach. This made my grilling experience much more organized and efficient, allowing me to focus on cooking rather than searching for utensils.
Grill Grates and Cooking Space
One of the standout features of the Weber Genesis S-435 is its generous cooking space. The primary cooking area provides 646 square inches of grilling surface, with an additional 198 square inches on the warming rack. This ample space allowed me to cook multiple items at once, a feature I truly appreciated when hosting a family barbecue.
The stainless steel grates offer excellent heat retention and are incredibly easy to clean. I loved that small items, like vegetables or shrimp, didn’t fall through the grates, yet the wide design provided excellent grill marks on steaks and burgers. After grilling, a quick brush down was all it took to keep the grates looking good as new.
Additional Features
One of the features I found particularly helpful is the grease management system. It made cleaning up after grilling much easier than with other models I’ve used. The grease tray is easily accessible and can be removed for quick cleaning. This significantly reduced the time I spent on post-cooking maintenance.
Another thoughtful addition is the tool hooks attached to the side of the grill. I was able to hang my spatula, tongs, and other grilling tools right where I needed them, making it easy to stay organized throughout the cooking process.
Temperature Control and Heat Retention
The temperature control on the Weber Genesis S-435 is fantastic. The four burners offer precise control, allowing me to cook at a wide range of temperatures. Whether I was searing steaks at high heat or slow-cooking ribs over a low flame, the grill maintained consistent heat across the entire cooking surface. This precision is crucial when you want to ensure that everything cooks evenly.
The well-designed lid also contributes to excellent heat retention. Even in windy or cool conditions, the grill held its temperature, ensuring that the food cooked efficiently and evenly, which is a must for those long, slow grilling sessions.
Versatility and Cooking Experience
The Weber Genesis S-435 isn’t just a grill—it’s a versatile cooking machine. From delicate fish to pizza, this grill handled everything I threw at it. The multiple burners allowed me to create different heat zones, so I could grill vegetables on one side while searing meat on the other. The warming rack was another great feature, as it allowed me to keep food warm or toast buns while freeing up the main grill surface.
Durability and Long-Term Use
After months of use, I can confidently say that the Weber Genesis S-435 is built to last. I’ve left it exposed to various weather conditions, including rain and intense summer heat, and it still looks and performs as it did on day one. The stainless steel components, from the burners to the grates, have shown minimal signs of wear, even with frequent use. While it’s an investment, I’m confident that this grill will provide excellent value over the long term.
What Could Be Improved
While the Weber Genesis S-435 is impressive, there are a few areas where I think it could be improved. First, the price may be a bit steep for occasional grillers, but for someone who grills frequently, like me, the investment is worthwhile.
Another potential improvement would be the inclusion of a rotisserie kit. Although the grill is compatible with rotisserie accessories, it would be nice if one were included, especially given the grill's premium price point.
Conclusion
The Weber Genesis S-435 4 Burner Natural Gas Grill Stainless Steel is an excellent choice for serious grillers looking for a top-of-the-line outdoor cooking experience. Its powerful performance, durable construction, and impressive features make it well worth the investment. Whether you're grilling for a small family dinner or a large party, this grill delivers in terms of cooking space, temperature control, and ease of use.
While it comes with a higher price tag, the quality, versatility, and durability of the Weber Genesis S-435 make it a standout option for anyone passionate about outdoor grilling. It’s a grill that will not only enhance your cooking experience but also last for years to come.
FAQs for Weber Genesis S-435 4 Burner Natural Gas Grill
Q: What are the dimensions of the Weber Genesis S-435 grill?
A: The grill measures 62 inches in width, 32 inches in depth, and 47 inches in height with the lid closed.
Q: How many burners does the Weber Genesis S-435 have?
A: The grill features four main burners with a total cooking area of 646 square inches.
Q: What type of fuel does the Weber Genesis S-435 use?
A: This model uses natural gas.
Q: Does the grill come with a warranty?
A: Yes, the grill includes a limited warranty—10 years for burners and 5 years for other parts.
Q: Is the Weber Genesis S-435 easy to assemble?
A: Yes, assembly typically takes 1-2 hours and comes with clear instructions.
Q: What are the key features of the Weber Genesis S-435?
A: Key features include stainless steel grates, a side burner, a sear station, and a grease management system.
Q: How does heat distribution work on this grill?
A: The four high-performance burners ensure even heat distribution, while the Flavorizer bars help minimize flare-ups.
Q: Can the Weber Genesis S-435 be converted to propane?
A: No, this model is designed for natural gas and cannot be converted to propane.
Q: What is the weight of the Weber Genesis S-435?
A: The grill weighs approximately 200 pounds.
Q: Is there storage space available in this grill?
A: Yes, it has a storage cabinet beneath the grill and side tables for additional workspace and tool storage.