Weber SmokeFire EX6

The Weber SmokeFire EX6 represents Weber's ambitious entry into the pellet grill market, combining their legendary build quality with modern smart technology. After extensive testing over multiple months, this grill has proven to be a versatile outdoor cooking powerhouse that excels at both low-and-slow smoking and high-heat grilling.

Smart Technology Integration

The Weber Connect system is genuinely impressive. The app provides step-by-step cooking guidance, real-time temperature monitoring, and alerts when your food is ready. During testing, we found the temperature probes to be accurate within 2-3 degrees, and the notifications were timely and helpful. The ability to monitor and adjust temperatures remotely gave us confidence to leave the grill unattended during long smoking sessions.

Cooking Performance

Temperature control is where the SmokeFire truly shines. The DC-powered auger system maintains consistent temperatures even in windy conditions. We tested smoking brisket at 225°F for 14 hours, and the temperature variance was minimal throughout. The smoke boost feature adds noticeable smoke flavor, though it does increase pellet consumption.

High-heat performance exceeded expectations. The grill reaches 600°F quickly, and the Flavorizer bars create excellent searing marks on steaks. We achieved restaurant-quality crusts on ribeyes while maintaining perfect medium-rare interiors. The large cooking surface easily accommodated 8 burgers or 3 full racks of ribs simultaneously.

Build Quality and Design

Weber's construction quality is evident throughout. The porcelain-enameled steel body resists rust and weathering. The Flavorizer bars are a unique feature that vaporizes drippings for added flavor while protecting the burn pot. The 20-pound hopper capacity is generous, providing 10-20 hours of cooking depending on temperature settings.

The viewing window on the hopper is a thoughtful touch that lets you monitor pellet levels without opening the lid. The ash removal system is straightforward - a simple pull-out tray that makes cleanup much easier than many competitors. The side shelf provides adequate prep space, though some users may want additional work surface.

Pellet Efficiency and Flavor

Pellet consumption varies significantly with temperature. At 225°F, expect about 1 pound per hour. At maximum temperature, consumption can reach 3-4 pounds per hour. The grill works well with various pellet brands, though Weber recommends their own pellets for optimal performance. We tested with hickory, mesquite, and apple pellets, all producing excellent smoke flavor.

Maintenance and Durability

Regular maintenance is straightforward. After every few cooks, vacuum out ash from the burn pot and empty the grease tray. The porcelain-enameled surfaces clean easily with a grill brush. The auger system should be cleared of pellets if the grill will sit unused for extended periods, especially in humid climates where pellets can absorb moisture and swell.

After six months of regular use in various weather conditions, the grill shows minimal wear. The paint finish remains intact, and all mechanical components function smoothly. The WiFi module has been reliable with no connectivity issues.

Who Should Buy This Grill

The Weber SmokeFire EX6 is ideal for serious outdoor cooks who want the convenience of pellet grilling with the versatility to sear at high temperatures. The smart technology appeals to tech-savvy users who appreciate data-driven cooking. The large capacity makes it perfect for families or those who frequently entertain.

However, budget-conscious buyers might find better value in less expensive pellet grills that offer similar core functionality without the smart features. Those with limited outdoor space should consider the smaller EX4 model. And if you primarily grill at high heat, a traditional gas grill might be more economical to operate.