Should You Buy the Slow 'N Sear Original or 2.0?

To be clear, this video is not sponsored! I've seen a lot of people asking questions about the differences between the Slow 'N Sear Original and the more expensive 2.0. In this video, I outline the differences between the two and talk about the kind of person that would want the Original and the one that would want the 2.0 with the removable reservoir. I was surprised by what I found.
Slow 'N Sear Original : amzn.to/39qYDly
Slow 'N Sear 2.0 : amzn.to/2WPaoj2
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

[@flakbait5771]

Outstanding work again, GTE. I appreciate your informative videos on the various tools available to grillers.

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thanks. I try to answer my own questions and ones that I see other people asking. Sometimes the only way to know is to try.

[@danfalen7104]

THIS one was great. I appreciate the work that went into it. Thank you!

[@GrillTopExperience]

I'm happy to do it. People had the same question I did, so I got one to try out. Might as well share it with others.

[@tiwamura20]

This video was basically perfect. I appreciate your research and explanation.

[@GrillTopExperience]

I hope it helps you make your decision.

[@AshKickinBBQ]

Excellent and thorough video! You answered all of my questions, thank you!

[@GrillTopExperience]

Glad it was helpful! I had questions too and wanted to give it a try.

[@stremf1]

Totally agree. I love my original, and the simple, sturdy design has never let me down.

[@GrillTopExperience]

Mine has warped some from adding water after it got hot, but other than that it works the same. It stays in the kettle.

[@christopherhelms7290]

I've had mine for a few years. It's the updated S&S, which is like the 2.0 but the well does not come out. I made a 14lb brisket with it yesterday, it still works great and the well hasn't warped at all. Some of the best money I ever spent.

[@Viewtoagrill]

Thanks for the video. I have the SNS for my 26 inch kettle... which I don't think they make any more. I don't have one for my 22 inch kettle but was thinking about get the 2.0 only because of the larger cooking area when you remove the reservoir.. Take care!

[@GrillTopExperience]

They still make the XL, but they posted on the Facebook group that they'll likely run out before they can get more. I don't need the bigger cooking area for the 2.0 most of the time, but I'm sure other people need it.

[@akesq01]

Really helpful and well done video. Thank you!!!!

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thanks, Alan. I hope it helps people make their decision.

[@RobFerrellDrumStudio]

Thank you sir. I just got my Weber kettle three weeks ago. I’ve been researching the SnS extensively. Currently I’m using charcoal baskets and a drip pan. I wanted to try several cooks with this set up. Everything worked well but I was going through drip pans like crazy and clean up was a little inconvenient. After watching this video (and subbing!) I pulled the trigger on the Slow n Sear original and Drip n Griddle pan. Thank you for taking the time to make quality content!

[@edwardprokopchuk3264]

How do you like your setup? Any regrets on not going with the 2.0?

[@RobFerrellDrumStudio]

I’ve since added a Deluxe as it was on sale! 🤣 After using both, there are things I like with each of them. If I had it to do over again, I’d probably stick with the original. I prefer how it sits in the kettle. I feel like I use less charcoal with it. I like the open bottom. Both work well and as advertised.

[@edwardprokopchuk3264]

@@RobFerrellDrumStudio thank you for the reply! I went ahead and ordered the deluxe for the removal of the water tray and sifting of the ash 😁

[@RobFerrellDrumStudio]

You can’t go wrong with either. I love the removable tray when I use my rotisserie! The heavier gauge stainless is nice and the ash sifting is a breeze with the Deluxe! Grill on! 🔥

[@ey5644]

Love the instructions on the steak!!! Thank you!

[@GrillTopExperience]

You're welcome! I have another video that goes over the cold grate technique a little closer, but this is a good overview.

[@THEREALSHOWBBQ]

Great looking steak bro. Love the simplicity but the results were perfect.

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thanks! It was so easy, even I could do it. I hope you and your family are staying safe and healthy!

[@ComparisonCooking]

Very interesting video, and well done!

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thanks, just trying to answer questions I've seen.

[@jon4589]

Good video combining steak cooking instruction and buying advice. The main advantage of the 2.0 is that when you shake out the ash of the previous cook, you can be a little more aggressive, lifting things a bit. With the original, you can just go back and forth to shake out. I bought and delivered two original SNS to my son-in-law and an old friend when the promotion started.

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thanks, Jon. I think you are saying the 2.0 can act as a sifter too. It still keeps old charcoal in pretty well if you block off all the vents and snuff it out. I've noticed the original doesn't hold the ash in as much either. You are right, the price on the original is hard to beat.

[@davetarrant6888]

I have to agree that the biggest advantage of the 2.0 is being able to snuff your charcoal out at the end of a cook and then at the beginning of your next cook you can give the charcoal a good shake to remove all the ash and re-use the left over coals.

[@meatcranium4280]

Don’t forget. The original is 304 SS, as where the 2.0 is a Cheaper 400 grade, probably why the thicker metal. Wait did I just Defend the SNS? Nah, I still wouldn’t buy either one, but really nice test. You have a nice presence on camera.

[@CookinWithJames]

LMAO

[@CookinWithJames]

You love the sns!!

[@GrillTopExperience]

That's a good point. I'm pretty sure the "original" original is a couple pounds heaver and used the 304 stainless. Both of them have 430 steel today including the thiner original design.

[@SA-fx4id]

@@GrillTopExperience where does one pick up an original original?

[@GrillTopExperience]

@@SA-fx4id They don't make it anymore. You'd have to find it used somewhere.

[@polsok44]

Nice video keep up the good work!

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thanks! It's been a lot of fun. Thanks for checking it out!

[@mlzz805]

The $100 price tag always kept me away, but at $60, I caved and pulled the trigger on one. Thanks for comparing!

[@GrillTopExperience]

It can be a hard sell for a convenience item that costs as much as a low end kettle and that's probably why they offer a less expensive version. I hope you enjoy it.

[@TheOriginalFSword]

This is a great video, kudos for your effort! I noticed you use a lodge cast iron pan, is it the 10.25'' or the 12'' one? Also would you prefer a pan with two short handles like the one on the video or the same one but with one short and one long handle? I would assume the pan with the two short handles is more convenient for the Webber grill since it takes up less space but perhaps one with a long and a short handle could be considered as a more "all around" pan (e.g. used as a frying pan in the kitchen as well)? Thanks!

[@GrillTopExperience]

It's the 12 inch one. It gives you more room on the grill without the long handle. I have both and use the long handled one in the stove.

[@TheOriginalFSword]

@@GrillTopExperience Thanks a lot for the reply - appreciate the fast response! I guess having both is always the best solution if you can't decide :-) However, as I try to limit the budget and intend to use it mostly on the grill I think I'll opt for the short handled one. Do you believe the lid is also useful?

[@jernigan007]

I love my SNS+. Original build quality w/ a bottom grate for small bits. I have 2 :)

[@GrillTopExperience]

Very nice! I hear the 26" kettles are pretty great.

[@rajaadawood5171]

Very informative Ryan 👍thanks 🙏🌹🙏❤️

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thanks, Rajaa. Next week is another recipe video. I'm digging deep in the freezer for this one.

[@rajaadawood5171]

Awesome 🤗 thanks a lot for understanding how beginners students like myself get lost with such a professional informations and terms on your profession field😊your reply really made me happy Ryan🤗 because I after reading all the comments today from all the experts on this field, I felt like I need to study a lot, but thanks a lot for all your amazing replies on all your videos addressing us on the first place that made me and all beginners learn more about each topic, it was great comments and replies by all which led me to think of how did you become so professional like Chef Glen who believed in you and introduced you to us, I know a lot about his success journey and his profession from his wonderful teaching videos, I wish that you could make a video talking to us about how or where did you study to achieve your success and expertise so we can find the magic point to start from to learn the basics😊I thank you again for sharing your amazing grill top experience to help us make the best outcome results👌stay safe and your wonderful family🤗Bless you all🙏🌸💖

[@dougharlow6037]

What BBQ gloves do you recommend? Great videos. Thanks

[@EthEdr]

Great video thanks

[@moviefan62]

Hi. I just came across your videos. Great stuff. Thank you. I was wondering if you had a chance to try different grates for the Weber kettle i.e.: Grill Grates or the Malory M1. I own Grill Grates for my Genesis but not sure if I should get them for my 22" premium kettle too or go with the Malorys. Or the Claycorts. The stock Weber grates just aren't doing it for me. Sorry if this isn't the place to ask this question, but I searched your videos and didn't see anything regarding this and you seem super Q knowledgeable so I thought I'd ask :-)

[@GrillTopExperience]

I've used the SNS easy spin grates, the cheap Weber grates, and the fancy Weber grates with the hole in the middle. Sorry, but I've never tried those other brands.

[@moviefan62]

@@GrillTopExperience Ok, thanks, no problem.

[@davidibrahim1383]

Have you tried the Grillaque by changon bbq? I much prefer that product as you can adjust it. I’ve had mine for 4 years and I love it

[@GrillTopExperience]

I haven't seen that one. Thanks for sharing it! That's an interesting design to be able to adjust the direct side. It looks like it's out of stock on Amazon and it's not clear how to buy one on their website though.

[@joer1757]

I enjoy how professional your videos are.. i subscribed thanks for putting out good info

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thanks for the support, Joe. Videos like this one are fun to put together.

[@CookinWithJames]

Awesome video brother!! steak looked super good!!

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thanks, James. It turned out well. I think I might like front searing better than reverse searing. How you are staying safe down there!

[@resteringsalonze9303]

Question? Couldn't you also move the slow in sear original basket 1+1/2 inch diameter off the side before you sear? Maybe even drop another 12-20 hot coles behind it. Wouldn't that extra inch+1/2 still be very direct? Would that risk clogging the bottom dampeners?

[@scottroberts3705]

I also wondered if I should get the XL for my 26.75 kettle or just transfer from one to the other!?

[@GrillTopExperience]

Personal preference I guess! They posted on the SNS Facebook page today that they might run out of XLs and have to wait a bit for new ones to arrive. It just depends if you want the extra capacity in the XL or not.

[@dgblac0]

Good job.

[@SupaBuma]

The no longer available SNS Plus model all day everyday and cook twice on Sunday ;) The old Plus model is Heavy, Thicc and Welded! I still couldn't be happier with my SNS Plus.

[@GrillTopExperience]

That's right, the newer original is quite a bit lighter than the old one. It still comes with the same warranty though. We'll have to see if it makes a big difference.

[@dannymendozapercussion]

I’m in the market for a charcoal grill and very torn between a Weber Performer vs the SnS. Any thoughts or insights you could share?

[@joshuahodges308]

Just got the original and smoked a turkey in 10 degree weather with high wind gust and my Webber stayed at 325 for the whole cook this thing is awesome!

[@GrillTopExperience]

Nice! Winter grilling at its finest!

[@supervike1]

Thanks dude, you just saved me some money.

[@GrillTopExperience]

Glad I could help! A lot of people had that question and I wanted to know the differences too.

[@FrankC656]

Great video, time for me to buy the slow and sear original.

[@GrillTopExperience]

A fine choice! You might want to join the SNS Grills Facebook group for inspiration and tips.

[@canonman223]

I think you meant to say the 18 gauge 2.0 was thinner metal? For the steak, how much shorter is the cook without water in the reservoir? Or does it matter much? I know the water helps stabilize the temp for longer cooks, so this may not mean as much for cooking a steak.

[@GrillTopExperience]

The 2.0 is thicker than the original. Sorry, I should have done a better job explaining that. You don't want to fill the water reservoir for any cooks over about 275F. You'll have a harder time getting to those temperatures and you'll have a lot of spattering water. I don't fill the water for a reverse seared steak, but I absolutely would for anything else that is only cooked low and slow.

[@michaelmendoza5361]

Does the difference in the thickness of the steel affect the heat radiation? the deluxe has thicker steel. So with smoking a meat on the indirect side, does that mean it’ll decrease the amount of heat radiation and not leading to some parts of the meat getting overcooked?

[@GrillTopExperience]

That's a good question and one I don't have a solid answer for yet. I've used the original quite a bit and haven't noticed a big difference. The biggest contributor to blocking the heat radiation is the double walled reservoir. Filling it with water for low and slow would block even more radiant heat.

[@tomiovino3542]

I just picked up a Slow 'N Sear original based on your recommendation. So far, it has performed exactly as advertised. Wings. Spare ribs. Beef ribs. Beer can chicken. The best purchase after my kettle grill!

[@GrillTopExperience]

Nice, Tom! Thanks for reporting back. I'm glad you are enjoying it. It has made things a lot easier for me too.

[@yesitsmario88]

Can you perhaps do a mod to add expanded metal to the bottom of the the original SNS?

[@GrillTopExperience]

You might be able to, but I don't know how to weld... Yet.

[@Didit_myself]

Can you do a video with the slow n sear only using woods chunks? or solid wood?

[@GrillTopExperience]

For low and slow or searing something like a steak?

[@Didit_myself]

@@GrillTopExperience why not both? :)

[@alansaunders7768]

why did you pan sear it after searing on the grill?

[@GrizzAxxemann]

The only ones available in Canaderp are the 2.0, and only from two dealers. I went with the one 3 hours away so I could spend a day out of the house and do curbside pickup. The other option was 3 provinces away, and 2 weeks shipping.

[@GrillTopExperience]

I hope you enjoyed the drive! The last I heard, they've had supply issues and are waiting for another shipment. That could be part of your issue.

[@GrizzAxxemann]

@@GrillTopExperience I make the drive as soon as I get the ready note. Hoping to be using it for some baby backs on the Napoleon this weekend. Placed the order on monday morning, should have word by tomorrow, since they say 24-72hours lead time. If that's the case, I head down Thursday. Dickson BBQ in Ontario has a bigger selection of SnS products. But they're too far, so I'm going through Barbecues Galore out of Calgary. Plus they had a few odds & ends in stock that I was after.

[@builtthroughbbq3755]

What a killer looking steak man! I gotta try this.

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thanks! I was really happy with it and saved some of it for burritos later. I heated it back up in the cast iron pan. Yum!

[@MBINC]

Is there a difference in the searing ability on either? Their website says the Deluxe gets 50% hotter, but does that translate into a better steak crust?

[@GrillTopExperience]

I had the same question when I saw that on their site. They say it has 50% more searing power, but that statement doesn't make a lot of sense to me. I interpret it to mean that you have more searing space and more room for coals. Overall it produces more heat, but over a wider area. Does that mean it's hotter? I'm not sure. The steak I cooked on the original was only 2/3 full. I could have filled it to the top to get it closer to the fire, but that was till more than enough to get a good sear on it.

[@MikeFLHT]

Video is well done. Still don't feel like I want to spend $70 or more for a Slow n Sear. Weber baskets do a great job.

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thanks for the honesty. Everybody has their own jam and there are lots of good ways to make BBQ on a kettle.

[@scottroberts3705]

As always great video, My dad has the Original original and loves it and I have 2.0 but would have gotten the Original if they had them when I ordered.

[@GrillTopExperience]

I saw quite a few people that said they liked the original design and didn't like the increase in price for the 2.0. They fixed that later by bringing the original back and lowering the price of both.

[@ricoe5306]

Good vid. 16 guage is thicker than 18 guage. Is that what you were saying at around 3:35? Not clear which one you meant was thicker.

[@GrillTopExperience]

I could have made that clearer. The deluxe 2.0 is thicker.

[@CraigLumpyLemke]

A little confusion on metal thickness. 16 ga is thicker than 18 ga. I think something got transposed in the description.

[@vinec1129]

I'm new to bbqing i have 22 inch weber and bought original sns. The top grill doesn't sit right when I put sns in. It sits too high . Any suggestions?

[@GrillTopExperience]

It should fit as long as the two grates are resting on the tabs. I've heard of people not being able to make it work in a Napoleon kettle and other different configurations. How tall is your SNS and what is the distance between the charcoal and cooking grates?

[@coryline]

May I ask what you are using on the cold side bottom grate during the sear test?

[@GrillTopExperience]

Of Course! That's the Drip N Griddle pan and it helps funnel the air in to the Slow N Sear and make it sear just a little bit hotter. It's also nice to catch the drips when you are cooking so you don't have to clean the kettle. It is not necessary, but it's a "nice to have." Here is a link to the product page : bit.ly/DripNGriddle

[@coryline]

@@GrillTopExperience thanks. That does seem like it would be very useful.

[@mr.shellcracker9161]

What's the difference between using a Slow n sear and just banking the charcoal on one side?

[@GrillTopExperience]

The SNS blocks the radiant heat from the charcoal so you end up with more even heat on the indirect side. You could do it without it, but you'll have to rotate and flip the meat more often.

[@inthedogghouse86]

FYI the smaller the Guage number the thicker. You said the 2.0 has 16 Guage while the older is 18 guage. Did u miss speak or is the new one thicker? Great video

[@GrillTopExperience]

The 2.0 with the removable reservoir has thicker metal than the original. I reached out to an "original" original owner and theirs was quite a bit heavier than the one I got, which explains why the newer one it's $40 cheaper than his. It's the original design, but with thinner metal.

[@fiftyf1]

I just bought a bundle with the 2.0 and the SS dripngriddle. The griddle gets used on all the grills for easier cleaning. The 2.0 I am still on the fence about. I was told it is better for lump charcoal, and that is all I use now. It works, and I guess the double layer of metal might save the finish on my kettle. Who knows? Thanks for a great video! Now go cook something! 🙂

[@GrillTopExperience]

Yes, cooking things is the best part. SNS Grills has a bunch of how to videos if you are looking for more tips. Congrats on the purchase.

[@razorpit]

Still don’t understand why some one would spend he money on a SnS when can usually buy Weber baskets for $15.

[@meatcranium4280]

razorpit Amen to that.

[@GrillTopExperience]

You can get similar results with both, but the baskets require more effort and fiddling. In the spirit of pellet grills, sometimes it's nice to cross off a few variables and not have to mess with it.

[@razorpit]

Grill Top Experience I guess you can make the case for that. Buying the original version is one thing, if you’re on a limited budget/space. But when I see things like the $270 Slow ‘N Sear® Deluxe Platinum Bundle I really don’t understand. That’s what I spent on a new 18” WSM. I can have either two fully functional cookers, or one kettle with it’s capacity cut in half. Not a hard choice there. By the way I didn’t mention it but that was a great video. Thanks for getting in to the facts. Maybe someday I’ll give in and get the original model. 😉 Stay safe!

[@GrillTopExperience]

@@razorpit I totally get that. There is a point of diminishing return. I've been using the cheapest Weber grates for a while and they haven't worn out and they spin too. If I spend $270 on Weber stuff, I think it'll be the green kettle. Thanks for watching and for the feedback!

[@likeachamp91]

MeatCranium BBQ AND REVIEW looks like he should test the cold grate technique. Wonder if he would use his hand lol maybe a piece of bread might be more forgiving but either way good video 👌🏼👌🏼

[@RossPotts]

2.0 is welded now. I just took delivery a couple days ago on 9/8

[@GrillTopExperience]

They got rid of the rivets?

[@mckeon1960]

I know this may sound a bit odd but why not just turn steak, by rotating both sides are hot, if you need a cooler side

[@GrillTopExperience]

The idea is to get an even sear all on every part of the meat. That method avoids charred grill marks (which some people like)

[@ryanbaker2134]

Hi, I am curious you state that your SNS had not warped but it looked like the water reservoir was beaten with a hammer lol. I have yet to see one that does not look warped.

[@GrillTopExperience]

You are right, the water reservoir will look like that pretty quickly since it is up against the heat and gets cooled quickly when you dump the water in. I was referring to the entire unit warping, which hasn't happened to the 2.0 or the thinner "original" that I have. It still sits flat and does its job.

[@ryanbaker2134]

@@GrillTopExperience thanks for the clarification 👍

[@issombeituni]

So long story short. I sold one of my kettles with a slow n sear on accident lol good for them I hope they enjoy it. I purchased a 26er. And I want to get another slow n sear. I know its not everyone's cup of tea but worked well for me. I don't cook over nights the longest is 6 to b 8hrs. I had the removable waterpan in mine. The 2.0 model. I really didn't ever remove it. On their site I can get Orginal for 59.99 the 2.0 for 99.99 or pre order the XL for the 26er 149.99 I just can't make up my mind. I don't like tossing money away where I can reinvest in more bbq stuff lol. I heard from guys that use the 22 sns in the 26er and love it and I heard others wish they had the XL versions....... idk what to do confused... lol help me lol

[@GrillTopExperience]

Doh! If selling the kettle with the SNS still in it doesn't say, it never leaves my kettle, I don't know what does. I don't have the 26" kettle or the XL, so I don't have an informed opinion. Are you ok with waiting until the end of May for the XL? Do you need the searing space? Are you OK with adding charcoal on longer cooks with the smaller one? I also wonder if the smaller SNS gives you more usable space.

[@issombeituni]

@UCnke_wrVy3HqDs3POdvtgCg thanks

[@elsanto8879]

Great video my man! That steak looked outstanding!

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thank you! It was pretty great.

[@nelsoncontreras2615]

I purchase the 2.0 for my 22 inches and then I purchase the slow N Sear 26 inch for my 26-inch weber il wish you can remove the water reservoir.

[@GrillTopExperience]

They don't sell as many in the 26, so they have the one design. If you haven't joined the SNS Grills facebook group, they are always open to ideas.

[@MacD2029]

The 2.0 bottom platform is great for knocking ash off old coals.

[@usmczippoguy7947]

One thing as an original owner I'd like to add is that moving the used charcoal is somewhat of a pain in the ass, just a little. If I would've bought the deluxe I could just pick it up and dump the leftover charcoal in my Oklahoma Joe's firebox. If I had a redo, I'd get the deluxe but not that mad about my choice.

[@GrillTopExperience]

That is one disadvantage, but some have complained that ash accumulates in the deluxe when cooking low and slow. That's usually only an issue with cheap charcoal.

[@raymondjbarron]

How's the clearance, say I wanted to rotisserie smoke a whole turkey or chickens?

[@GrillTopExperience]

I've seen people do it with chicken, but you'd need a rotisserie accessory that raises the lid.

[@stevebarber7562]

I absolutely agree with you. I prefer the original primarily because I grill with briquettes and want the ash to fall into the lower section of the grill and not block the air flow. I've tried the second version for several months, noticed a difference in ash build-up, and passed the "new and improved" version on to a family member.

[@GrillTopExperience]

I'm sure they appreciated the gift! I've run into the same thing where the 2.0 holds on to ash and starts to choke the fire out on low and slow cooks. It happens less with the more expensive low ash briquettes.

[@GHTRVSA]

I love my original but love the 2.0 better. Both are made to last but the 2.0 bottom is way better.

[@progers5019]

Nice presentation. Nice steak. In the metal thickness comment, the 18 gauge is thinner than 16. The lower the number, the thicker the steel. Therefore, 16 gauge is thicker than 18 gauge steel.

[@karlsimonian1424]

True!

[@GrillTopExperience]

Right : 3:32 I had it right there. Did I mix it up somewhere else?

[@progers5019]

@@GrillTopExperience , Well I just listened again at 3:32 and you said it right. My brain just heard it different. Sorry bud

[@mlzz805]

@@progers5019 Ha, I heard wrong too!

[@dnystrand001]

I know this is an old video, but hopefully you see this and can reply- would be much appreciated… I’ve been watching a lot of your videos lately along with some others as I’m deciding between a SNS Kettle Deluxe or the Weber Performer as my next purchase (I’ve been more of a smoker over the years- brought up in north MS and the land of Memphis BBQ- so I already have excellent smoking equipment, but I’ve historically gone the “cheap” route on grills only after the good sear you can’t get from most smoker-grills). I do want smoking capabilities with the kettle I choose for smaller cooks so I don’t always have to break out my larger smoking equipment, but the grilling and sear is priority for me. That being said, you used a spinning grate in this video and mentioned “cheap Weber grates.” I’m assuming from that statement, you’re using a Weber grill and those same “cheap Weber grates.” That’s what my primary question is about. From all the research I’ve done lately, the easy spin grate is an SNS thing. Guga even has a video on YT and the SNS website talking about this particular feature is one of the primary reasons he prefers SNS kettles over Weber. Can you provide some clarity for me on this? I really like the Weber Performer setup with the 4-wheel larger table, but it would run me more than the SNS Kettle Deluxe package to have to purchase a spin grate in addition. Also, it’s Weber- I know there are Weber grills out there older than the SNS company. That being said, It also seems like SNS grills and accessories are built with quality material like stainless steel where as Weber uses aluminum or steel playing in many of the same parts (legs, ash pan, grates, etc.). If the Weber grates do in fact spin that could carry some weight in my decision. I was considering purchasing a few fire bricks to play with my own smoking setup inside either kettle so the SNS/Weber charcoal baskets that come with each grill is not really super important to me, although I do like the thermometer and smoke holes that come on the SNS kettles. Sorry for such a long post, but since I have minimal experience on an old original Weber and none on the SNS I’ve been struggling on this decision all week 😂 and your input might just put me over the edge! TIA!

[@GrillTopExperience]

The cheap weber grates spin pretty well. Others have taken an angle grinder to the thicker weber grates to remove a little nub that can sometimes catch on the tabs that hold up the grates on the kettle. SNS stainless steel grates will last longer under the high heat searing you want to do. The grates that come with the performer make me sad because of the piece in the middle that falls out. I prefer the cheapest grates and the ones that come with the premium kettle over those. The SNS grill I tested wasn't as sturdy as any kettle I've used, but they may have fixed some of those things when they switched to black enamel over the original black., but the SNS Deluxe kettle is a resonable value if you want a kettle with all of the SNS accessories. However, if price were no object, I prefer the Weber Kettle. If you go the kettle route, you can purchase the smoke and probe port covers if you really want that feature.

[@dnystrand001]

@@GrillTopExperience When you say I can purchase the smoke and probe port covers, you mean for the Weber? What do you mean by that? They sell a kettle lid that has them?? I’ve been on the Weber site and haven’t seen anything that suggests smoke or probe holes as any sort of option. Thanks for the reply!

[@dnystrand001]

@@GrillTopExperience On another note, I have wondered about the upgrades on the new model vs the old gray ones. Seems like you can’t find a review on any of these new ones. Guess they haven’t been out long enough. Seems like maybe the stainless steel grates vs the cheaper grates might be the way to go for my searing needs, as you mentioned. I like the circular cut-out grate only for using my wok. Otherwise, I agree with you that it would be annoying and could probably see myself purchasing an SNS stainless steel plate for that searing, putting my cost over that of the SNS which comes with it. If I still want the cut-out great, you can get those pretty cheap I’m Amazon for like $25. I think I am leaning towards the SNS. Like you mentioned, their grate is right up my alley, and with the smoke and port holes, the SNS deluxe basket, it seems like it’s even possibly the better small batch smoker as well. The main thing that appeals to me about the Performer is the larger table and better cart/wheels. Not ever owning a Weber, I don’t suppose I’d know what I was missing out on and like you said, maybe they’ve improved on the features and functions like the sturdiness you disliked about it now with the newer model. Cheers!

[@faceplantakaraybowman3501]

Another advantage to the 2.0 is you can pick it up and shake over trash can to get ash off and you dont have to scoop out old charcoal

[@GrillTopExperience]

That's true too. I usually let mine burn out until it's down to ash so the grill self cleans after the cook is done.

[@PKSullivan]

Steel thickness is inverse to the gauge, i.e., the smaller the gauge the thicker the steel. If your numbers are right, the 2.0 is actually thicker being 16 gauge compared to the original’s 18 gauge.

[@GrillTopExperience]

Right. The 2.0 is thicker. The new original uses the original design with thinner metal (I assume) to get the price down.

[@richarddenatale2955]

I am not sure whether or not you mixed up your words on the version and the gauge of material. In sheet metal and wire, the lower the number is, the thicker the material. 16 gauge is thicker than 18 gauge. 30 gauge is like tin foil. So is the original 16 and the 2.0 18?

[@GrillTopExperience]

I had it right, but the terms I used to describe each were not clear and people heard both.. The original uses thinner metal than the deluxe, which is one reason why the original is less expensive.

[@richarddenatale2955]

@@GrillTopExperience Thank you

[@makibnadam]

Why no reverse sear?

[@GrillTopExperience]

Good question. I've found that reverse sear works great for thicker cuts of meat. If it is an inch or less, I'll sear it first so I don't over cook it doing the sear. It's harder to mess up when you go sear first.

[@makibnadam]

@@GrillTopExperience Thanks for clarifying bud, makes 100% sense! -- I also love the idea of the cast iron pan on the charcoal grill.

[@faceplantakaraybowman3501]

I like the removable water holder better, saves a lot of time and makes it easier to clean , just pick it up and shake to get the ash off your coals, relight and continue

[@MetricButtload]

Sounds like you're making things very difficult if that saves you a lot of time

[@mrallan8063]

Wielded is far superior than rivets, and thickness is extremely important over time in very high heat applications.... thanks for pointing that out. Not going to buy a SnS 2.0, not worth it.

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thanks for pointing that out. Thickness is a big deal, which is why I was surprised to hear they both have the same warranty. I'd assume the 1.0 would wear out first.

[@razorpit]

I don’t think you’ll ever wear either out. They are both engineered well. I have almost three years on my cheap Weber baskets that are neither welded or riveted and if I gave them a quick wash you would would think I only used them once or twice.

[@PKSullivan]

Smaller gauge steel is thicker, as gauge is a measure of weight of a square plate at a certain thickness. If the numbers given in the video are correct (16 gauge for the 2.0, 18 gauge for the original) the 2.0 is actually thicker. As for the weld vs rivet, I’d argue that the increased flexibility of the rivets will cause less stress to the metal over time compared to seam welds. The rivets will let the metal expand and contract better, particularly if it is heating unevenly.

[@freedo64]

Just bought a 22” Landmann kettle grill. Will this fit in it?

[@GrillTopExperience]

Here are the dimensions listed in the SNS site: Length: 21” Depth: 8½” Height: 4¾” Measure and see. Other people have had luck with other brands of kettles.

[@jackwebb5917]

The 2.0 is 16ga the original 18ga. You said that’s how they brought the price down because it’s thinner. That’s not accurate, 16ga is actually THICKER than 18ga

[@chavez8541]

Just FYI....18 gauge steel is .048 in thickness and 16 gauge steel is .060 in thickness.

[@GrillTopExperience]

Thanks for the specs. It's definitely a noticeable difference in thickness and weight.

[@davidparker3346]

You are incorrect on steel thickness 16 gauge is thicker than 18 gauge. The lower the number the thicker the material. Check it out.,

[@GrillTopExperience]

I understand the difference, but didn't use clear references to the item I was talking about. The remake of the original is thinner than the 2.0.

[@MrMnmn911]

Stop playing around. Get the Deluxe model. (boom)

[@mattc825]

16 gauge is thicker (heavier) than 18 gauge..

[@GrillTopExperience]

Right, that is why the 18 gauge original is thinner, lighter, and less expensive.

[@mattc825]

@@GrillTopExperience Gotcha. Good review. +Rep

[@sdarms111doug9]

I wouldn't clean that in my sink if I don't like clogs. That ash can build up.

[@rickw4160]

Ash+fat=soap.. so.. not sure? not self cleaning? lol

[@johnmills837]

16 gauge is thicker than 18 gauge. Look at you video @ 5:47 see the one on the left is thicker and 16 gauge.

[@GrillTopExperience]

Yes, the 2.0 is thicker than the original. That's one reason why it costs more.

[@jackcle4544]

You dont need a slow and sear, two bricks and a pan of hot water. $1.90 plus tax at Home Depot

[@GrillTopExperience]

Somewhere there is someone saying you don't need a brick when you can use the snake method. Use what works for you.

[@jackcle4544]

@@GrillTopExperience I have tried snake method, lots of turning for me, im a lazy griller!!

[@SlainteFromFlorida]

Welded > riveted. How is there a debate there?!

[@GrillTopExperience]

There are some people that say that riveted is better. I think it was just an easier way to attache the mesh on the bottom.

[@TGJaws]

In this case, Riveted > Weld. I have the original 304 SS SnS and one of the first to have the 2.0 SnS. Since getting the 2.0, I use it more than the original. My original is permanently warped from the high heat it has seen while the 2.0 is not.

[@budscott1257]

I wouldn’t buy a slow n sear they don’t work and are a waste of money. JUNK👎🏻

[@Mainley-Free]

Neither... Overpriced Chinese stamped crap.

[@trumptookthevaccine1679]

You owned one?