By Miles SinclairUpdated November 2026
The Weber Genesis II S-310 is one of the most widely discussed models in the Genesis II gas grill lineup, a three-burner natural gas grill built for backyard cooks who want consistent heat, a large cooking surface and enough side-shelf space for prep. It suits households that cook most nights, grill for groups on weekends, and want a grill that holds up to years of regular use. It is less suited to buyers who need portability, those who run a propane tank instead of a natural gas line, or cooks looking for a dedicated smoking or searing setup beyond what a standard gas grill offers. Read on for specs, owner feedback patterns and a buying guide before you commit.
Weber Genesis II S-310 Natural Gas Grill
Product Overview
The Weber Genesis II S-310 is a freestanding gas grill sold in a natural gas configuration. It belongs to the Genesis II family, which Weber positions as a mid-to-upper tier line between its entry Spirit models and its larger premium carts. The S-310 is designed to be a permanent fixture on a patio or deck, connected to a home natural gas supply rather than a portable propane cylinder. Weber’s core design approach across the Genesis line centers on evenly distributed heat from front-to-back burners, a closed lid for convection-style cooking, and a sturdy cart with storage.
The grill is aimed at everyday outdoor cooking rather than competition barbecue. Its strengths are predictability, ease of ignition with an electronic igniter, and a cooking area that accommodates a full rack of ribs or several burgers and chicken pieces at once. If you are weighing the broader Weber lineup, our overview of Weber Genesis E-325 Gas Grill Review: Features and Performance covers a sibling model in more depth, and Weber Genesis 2 Gas Grill Review: Is It Worth It? takes a closer look at the value question for the wider family.
Key Features & Specifications
Weber’s published specifications for this model are the most reliable starting point. Confirm current dimensions and figures on the manufacturer’s site or the product listing before purchasing, as configurations can change between production runs.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fuel type | Natural gas (converted from propane requires a conversion kit) |
| Burner layout | Three main burners, front-to-back arrangement |
| Ignition | Electronic igniter |
| Grates | Porcelain-enameled cast iron |
| Lid | Closed-lid cooking with built-in lid-mounted thermometer |
| Side tables | Folding side shelves for prep and resting food |
| Cart | Enclosed cart base with storage area |
| Construction | Steel body with enamel-coated finish |
Check the product listing for the exact cooking area, total BTU rating and warranty terms. Weber typically specifies these per model, and they vary slightly across the Genesis II range.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Three burners give good zone control for indirect cooking and mixed loads.
- Porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates retain heat and resist sticking when preheated and oiled.
- Natural gas setup removes the need to swap propane tanks during long cooks.
- Enclosed cart keeps tools and accessories off the patio.
- Side shelves offer workable prep space for a family-size cook.
- Electronic igniter makes startup quick and simple.
Cons
- Natural gas only, so you need a home gas line or a conversion kit.
- Heavy and not practical to move once installed.
- Not built for low-and-slow smoking; temperature control at very low settings takes practice.
- Assembly takes a meaningful amount of time and usually two people.
- Owners often mention grease management needs regular attention.
Performance Analysis
Performance on any gas grill comes down to three things: how evenly it heats, how well it holds temperature with the lid closed, and how easily it recovers when you open it to flip food. Based on the specification set and the patterns owners commonly describe, the Genesis II S-310 performs well in the areas that matter most for weekend and weeknight grilling.
Heat distribution from front-to-back burners is generally reported as even across the grate, which means you can run a two-zone setup by lighting one or two burners and keeping the rest off. Owners frequently describe this as the feature that makes the grill useful for both direct searing of steaks and indirect cooking of thicker cuts like bone-in chicken thighs. Preheating for 10 to 15 minutes with the lid closed is a common recommendation to get grates up to temperature and burn off residue.
Temperature stability is a strength at medium and high settings. Owners tend to report that the lid-mounted thermometer reads close enough for routine cooking, though most experienced cooks recommend checking grate-level temperature with a separate probe thermometer for precise work. At low settings suitable for smoking, gas grills in this class generally hold temperature less steadily than a dedicated smoker, so expect some fiddling with burner knobs to hold a target around 225 to 250°F.
Durability feedback centers on the cart and cooking surfaces. Enamel-coated grates and a powder-coated or enameled body tend to resist rust when cleaned after use and covered when idle. Owners who skip covers or leave grease to build up report corrosion sooner, which is consistent across most outdoor gas grills. A grill cover and periodic burner cleaning help extend service life considerably.
For a broader perspective on how gas compares with other fuel types for backyard use, see Wood Pellet Grill vs Gas Grill (2026): Which Is Better for Your Backyard?, and for background on fuel categories, Types of BBQ Grills: Charcoal, Gas, Pellet and Electric Explained is a useful primer.
Who Should Buy This Product?
The Genesis II S-310 fits a specific set of buyers. It is a strong match if you already have a natural gas line on your patio or deck, cook several times a week, and want a dependable grill that handles family meals and small gatherings without constant attention. Cooks who like zone-based grilling, who want a built-in cart for storage, and who value a grill they will keep for many years will find it satisfying.
It is a weaker choice if you rely on propane cylinders, need to move the grill regularly, live in an apartment without gas hookup, or plan to do extended low-temperature smoking as your main method. In those cases a portable propane model or a dedicated pellet grill will serve you better. If you are looking at compact options instead, our guide to Top 5 Small Gas Grill Propane Picks for Compact Cooking in 2026 covers smaller footprints.
Buying Guide
Before buying any Genesis II model, confirm your fuel source. The S-310 is designed for natural gas. If your home only has propane, look for a propane configuration of the Genesis line rather than converting, and check local code requirements for gas connections. Professional installation of a gas line is strongly recommended, and a licensed plumber or gas technician should handle any connection work. Consult a qualified professional before making changes to a home gas supply.
Next, measure your space. Account for the grill’s footprint plus clearance from walls, overhangs and combustible materials as specified by the manufacturer. Plan for airflow and keep the grill away from doors and windows.
Consider cooking volume against the number of people you usually feed. Three burners and a standard cooking area handle most families well, but if you regularly cook for large groups, you may want a larger model.
Alternatives are worth comparing. Two well-known Weber options within the same family are:
- Weber Genesis E-325 with PureBlu burners and XL sear zone – A larger, three-burner gas grill with an added sear zone and porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates, suited to buyers who want more searing capacity.
Weber3 PureBlu® Burners, XL Sear Zone, Porcelain-Enameled Cast-Iron Grates, Stainless-Steel Side Tables, BBQ Grill, Weber Grill Genesis E-325 Gas Grill for Outdoor Cooking, Natural Gas, Black
- Weber Genesis E-315 with PureBlu burners – A propane-fueled three-burner model with porcelain-enameled grates and stainless-steel side tables, useful if you do not have a natural gas line.
Weber3 PureBlu® Burners, Porcelain-Enameled Cast-Iron Grates, Stainless-Steel Side Tables, BBQ Grill, Outdoor Grill, Weber Grill Genesis E-315 Gas Grill for Outdoor Cooking, Propane Grill, Black
For buyers weighing a more compact or budget-oriented route, Weber Spirit 2-burner Gas Grill Review: Is It Worth It? offers a useful comparison point in the Weber lineup.
FAQ
Does the Genesis II S-310 run on propane?
No. This configuration is built for natural gas. Converting to propane typically requires a manufacturer-approved conversion kit, and you should have it installed by a qualified technician. Check the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting any conversion.
How long does assembly usually take?
Owners generally report that assembly takes several hours and is easier with two people. Read the full manual first and lay out all hardware before starting.
Can I use this grill for smoking?
You can do low-temperature cooking with indirect heat, but it is not a purpose-built smoker. Expect to adjust burner settings frequently to hold temperature. Many cooks add a smoker box with wood chips for flavor.
How should I clean the grates?
Preheat the grill for 10 to 15 minutes, brush the grates with a stiff wire or grill brush, then wipe lightly with oil while warm. Avoid harsh abrasives that can damage the porcelain enamel coating.
How do I prevent rust on the grill body?
Keep the grill covered when not in use, empty and clean the grease tray regularly, and store the grill out of direct rain when possible. Periodic cleaning of the burners also helps prevent corrosion.
Is a grill cover necessary?
A fitted cover is strongly recommended for any outdoor gas grill. It protects enamel, stainless and burner components from moisture, debris and UV exposure, extending the life of the unit.
What maintenance does the grill need each season?
Inspect hoses and connections for leaks using a soapy water test, clean burner ports, check the igniter, and inspect grease management components. Consult the manual and a qualified technician for any gas-related repairs.
Final Verdict
The Weber Genesis II S-310 is a solid choice for households with a natural gas connection that want a reliable three-burner grill with good zone control, enameled cast-iron grates and a practical cart with side shelves. Owner feedback patterns point to even heating and dependable everyday performance, with the main trade-offs being natural-gas-only fuel, limited portability and modest low-temperature smoking ability. If those constraints fit your setup, it is a grill you can expect to use for years. If not, compare the propane-fueled and larger Genesis options before deciding.
About Miles Sinclair
Miles Sinclair is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our BBQ & grilling guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
