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 avid backyard griller, I couldn't wait to put the Weber Genesis S-435 4 Burner Natural Gas Grill Stainless Steel to the test. I've hosted countless barbecue gatherings over the years, and a high-quality grill is a must-have for making those events memorable. With the Weber Genesis S-435, my expectations were understandably high, especially given its glowing reputation as a premium grill for larger groups. From the moment I unboxed it, I was struck by its sleek, professional stainless steel finish. But I quickly learned that its beauty wasn't just skin deep—its solid build quality spoke volumes about its durability and performance.
Setting Up the Weber Genesis S-435 4 Burner Natural Gas Grill Stainless Steel
The first step in the journey was setting up the grill. Now, I've assembled my fair share of outdoor cookers, and while this one wasn't the fastest to put together, it wasn't a headache either. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, which is always a blessing. Every piece fit together as it should, and there weren't any missing parts to frustrate me—something not every brand manages to get right. This grill is fairly hefty, so having a friend help with the heavy lifting made the process more manageable. Once it was fully set up, I was pleased with its sturdy construction. It stood confidently in my backyard, with no wobbling and no sense of weakness—just a strong, robust grill ready to tackle whatever I threw at it.
Design and Build Quality
The Weber Genesis S-435 truly excels in design and build quality. Its premium stainless steel construction gives it a polished, modern look that immediately elevates the atmosphere of any outdoor space. But the quality goes beyond looks; this grill is designed to last. The stainless steel finish means it can withstand the elements, including harsh sun and heavy rain, without rusting or deteriorating.
The large cooking surface was another major draw for me. The main cooking area of 646 square inches, complemented by a warming rack of 198 square inches, makes this grill a great choice for anyone who loves cooking for a crowd. Whether it's a family reunion or a neighborhood cookout, the ample grilling space ensures there's plenty of room for all the food. The four high-performance burners are strategically placed to promote even heat distribution, eliminating the frustrating hot spots that have ruined meals on some of my past grills.
Cooking Power and Performance of the Weber Genesis S-435 4 Burner Natural Gas Grill Stainless Steel
When it comes to power, the Weber Genesis S-435 doesn’t disappoint. It boasts a total of 48,000 BTUs across the main burners, giving it the power needed to heat up quickly and maintain high temperatures without struggle. One of my favorite features is the dedicated 9,000 BTU sear station burner, which allowed me to achieve perfect sear marks on my steaks—giving them that restaurant-quality look and taste. Nothing says summer grilling like those beautiful sear marks.
Additionally, the 12,000 BTU side burner added an extra layer of versatility. I used it to prepare sauces and sauté veggies while the main grill was occupied with meats, saving me from the constant trips back to the kitchen. This made the grill feel like a complete outdoor kitchen—a perfect setup for anyone who loves spending time outdoors preparing meals for friends and family.
Ease of Use and Convenience
After getting everything assembled, I found the Weber Genesis S-435 very user-friendly. The electronic ignition system made starting the grill simple and reliable, sparing me the frustration of failed ignitions on those windy days. The control knobs are smooth and intuitive, allowing for precise adjustments to cooking temperatures without much fuss.
Storage is another aspect where this grill really shines. The spacious enclosed cabinet beneath the grill provided plenty of room to store grilling tools, spices, and cleaning supplies, while the large side tables served as convenient prep areas. The built-in tool hooks were incredibly handy, allowing me to keep all my grilling utensils within reach without cluttering the workspace—a real bonus when managing a busy cookout.
Grill Grates and Cooking Space of the Weber Genesis S-435 4 Burner Natural Gas Grill Stainless Steel
The generous cooking area of the Weber Genesis S-435 is one of its standout features. With 646 square inches on the main cooking grate and an additional 198 square inches on the warming rack, the grill offers ample space to cook everything at once. When hosting larger gatherings, I could grill burgers, sausages, veggies, and even toast buns simultaneously, which saved me a lot of time and made entertaining easy.
The cooking grates are made of stainless steel, which means excellent heat retention and durability. They were wide enough to keep smaller items, like asparagus spears or shrimp skewers, from slipping through, while also delivering those impressive grill marks on steaks and burgers. Cleanup was a breeze, too—the grates just needed a quick brush-down, and they were good as new.
Additional Features of the Weber Genesis S-435 4 Burner Natural Gas Grill Stainless Steel
The Weber Genesis S-435 also includes several thoughtful features that enhance the grilling experience. One of the highlights for me was the built-in grease management system. It directed grease away from the burners, reducing flare-ups, and the removable grease tray was easy to clean, which made the dreaded post-cook cleanup much less of a chore.
I also appreciated the side tool hooks, which kept my workspace organized. It’s amazing how much easier grilling becomes when your tongs, spatula, and basting brush are always right where you need them. These small conveniences really add up when you’re managing a hot grill with multiple dishes cooking at once.
Temperature Control and Heat Retention
Effective temperature control is crucial for great grilling, and the Weber Genesis S-435 excels here. The four burners can be adjusted independently, giving me precise control over cooking temperatures. Whether I needed a high-heat sear for steaks or a lower, more controlled temperature for slow-cooking ribs, this grill delivered consistent results.
The well-built stainless steel lid also plays an important role in retaining heat. Even when grilling on breezy evenings, I found that the grill maintained its temperature reliably, ensuring even cooking throughout the session. This kind of performance is exactly what I need for more challenging dishes, like smoked brisket, which require steady heat over extended periods.
Versatility and Cooking Experience with the Weber Genesis S-435 4 Burner Natural Gas Grill Stainless Steel
The Weber Genesis S-435 isn’t just a grill—it’s a versatile outdoor cooking station. I’ve used it for everything from delicate fish fillets to homemade pizzas, and it has consistently delivered excellent results. The different heat zones made it easy for me to manage a variety of foods at once, which is a big plus when you’re grilling for a crowd. For example, I could grill veggies over medium heat on one side while getting a perfect sear on steaks at high heat on the other.
The warming rack was another handy feature. It kept foods warm while I finished grilling other items or toasted buns without taking up valuable space on the main grates. This thoughtful design meant that everything could be ready at the same time, hot and delicious—just the way I like it.
Durability and Long-Term Use of the Weber Genesis S-435 4 Burner Natural Gas Grill Stainless Steel
After several months of regular use, I can confidently say that the Weber Genesis S-435 is built to last. The stainless steel components are not only aesthetically pleasing but are also highly resistant to rust and corrosion. I’ve left the grill uncovered through rain and heat, and it still performs beautifully, with no signs of wear.
The burners, grates, and all other parts have held up well, even after frequent grilling sessions. For a serious backyard cook like me, this durability means peace of mind. It’s clear that this grill is designed with the long haul in mind, making the investment worthwhile for anyone passionate about outdoor cooking.
What Could Be Improved
While I’m thoroughly impressed with the Weber Genesis S-435, there are a couple of aspects that could be improved. Firstly, the price point is on the higher side. For those who grill only occasionally, the cost may be hard to justify. However, if you’re like me and take grilling seriously, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Another improvement I’d suggest is including a rotisserie kit as a standard accessory. The grill is rotisserie-compatible, but given the price, I would have liked to see it come bundled with the kit. This is a minor point but worth noting for those interested in adding more cooking options to their grill setup.
Product Review Conclusion
The Weber Genesis S-435 4 Burner Natural Gas Grill Stainless Steel is a premium choice for those who are serious about their outdoor cooking. It combines a high-quality, durable construction with powerful performance, versatile cooking features, and ample grilling space. Whether you're hosting a large party or just cooking a weeknight dinner, this grill has the features and reliability to make every meal a success.
Yes, it comes at a higher price point, but for those who love to grill and want a product that will stand the test of time, it's worth the investment. If you’re in the market for a natural gas grill that delivers on both performance and durability, the Weber Genesis S-435 should be at the top of your list.
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: It 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 grill uses natural gas.
Q: Does the grill come with a warranty?
A: Yes, the grill includes a limited warranty, covering burners for 10 years and other parts for 5 years.
Q: Is the Weber Genesis S-435 easy to assemble?
A: Assembly is straightforward, typically taking 1-2 hours, with clear instructions provided.
Q: What are the key features of the Weber Genesis S-435?
A: Key features include stainless steel cooking grates, a side burner, a sear station, and a grease management system.
Q: How does heat distribution work on this grill?
A: The four burners ensure even heat distribution, with Flavorizer bars minimizing 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 features a storage cabinet beneath the grill for tools and accessories.