Weber SmokeFire EX4
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The original SmokeFire was Weber's biggest embarrassment — pellet jams, flare-ups, and firmware issues plagued the launch. The second generation fixes nearly everything. Weber listened, and the EX4 is now a genuine contender.
What We Love
- +Weber Connect smart grilling system
- +Excellent searing at 600°F+
- +Porcelain-enameled steel construction
- +GrillGrate-compatible grates
- +Significantly improved pellet feeding
- +Weber's customer service and parts network
Watch Out For
- −First-gen reputation still lingers
- −$999 is competitive but not cheap
- −Smaller hopper than competitors (22 lbs)
- −App can be buggy
Specifications
Cooking Area
672 sq in
Hopper
22 lbs
Controller
Weber Connect (WiFi)
Material
Porcelain-enameled steel
Temp Range
200°F - 600°F
Warranty
3-year limited
The Full Review
I was skeptical after the SmokeFire Gen 1 disaster. But Weber genuinely fixed the problems. The redesigned auger and firepot eliminated the pellet jams that plagued the original.
The standout feature is searing capability. The SmokeFire reaches 600°F+ — higher than most pellet grills other than direct-flame designs. This means you can smoke a brisket at 225°F and sear steaks at 600°F on the same grill.
Weber Connect is a solid smart grilling platform. It provides step-by-step cook programs, real-time temperature monitoring, and notifications. For beginners, it's like having a pitmaster coach.
Smoke flavor is good at lower temps and adequate at higher temps. It won't match a Yoder or offset smoker, but it's in line with other premium pellet grills.
The biggest hesitation is the brand damage from Gen 1. Weber has earned back trust with the Gen 2, but if you're spending $999, you want confidence.
How Does It Compare?
At a glance against its closest pellet grill rivals.
| Grill | Rating | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weber SmokeFire EX4 (this) | 4.4 | $999 | Weber's second-gen pellet grill fixed the first gen's issues. |
| Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 24 | 4.6 | $999 | Innovative Sidekick smoke box. |
| Traeger Pro 780 | 4.6 | $999 | The sweet spot in Traeger's lineup — more cooking space than the Pro 575, WiFIRE, and Super Smoke without the Ironwood price. |
Who Is It For?
Weber loyalists who want pellet convenience with Weber build quality. Cooks who want high-heat searing AND low-and-slow smoking. Tech-forward grillers who appreciate smart features and guided cooking.
Final Verdict
The Weber SmokeFire EX4 Gen 2 is a genuine redemption story. It sears better than any pellet grill in its class and smokes respectably. At $999, it competes well with the Recteq RT-700 and Camp Chef Woodwind.
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