A gasser for the masses with new Boost Burners
The big news out of Weber World for 2025 is a “reimagined” new lineup of Spirit, Weber’s most popular gas grill. The new Spirits are offered in a variety of two, three and four burner configurations priced from $449 to $1,099 and available in LP and NG models. We tested the Weber Spirit EP-435 Gas Grill, a 4 burner model that includes a side burner.
What’s new for 2025
Introduced in 1995 as an entry-level gasser, Spirit has always been a workhorse—easy to use, easy to clean and within the price range of grillers on a budget but willing to pay for quality. Weber celebrates Spirit’s 30th birthday with a significant redesign that the company describes as, “offering an upgraded cooking experience, greater versatility, and enhanced firepower through proprietary Boost Burner Technology.”
In this Weber Spirit EP-435 Gas Grill review, we did indeed find that the most striking redesign element is the new Boost Burner System. We haven’t seen anything like it. These Boost Burners are meant to provide an extra high gear for the main burners when searing temps are needed. Even though they rate the four main burners at only 35,000 BTUs total, Weber claims they can reach 750°F. Our tests blew past that number and came close to hitting 800°F.
We asked Weber how they achieved these high temps. They replied, “The enhanced high heat and efficiency you’re experiencing with our new Spirit grills come from a completely redesigned heat management system, which includes calibrated burner placement and optimized ventilation that maximizes the retention of heat without compromising combustion; all for consistent performance. When it comes to high heat specifically, each burner on high delivers enough BTUs to reach temperatures of 550–600°F. The real game-changer, however, is our Boost Burner technology. When activated on the right two burners, Boost increases power output in our 4 burner grills by 40% (taking them from 7,500 BTUs to 10,500 BTUs), boosting temperatures in the Sear Zone to an impressive 750°F plus.”
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The unusual design doesn’t work by turning the control knob clockwise past “High” to a “High +” setting. Boost kicks in by turning the knob counterclockwise past the “Low” setting. Notice the Boost setting in red.
Here’s a Boost Burner on the High setting.
The same burner boosted.
Snap-Jet flame thrower ignition at each burner replaces Weber’s standard, single, battery powered ignition.
And Spirit features cross-over ignition; fire up one burner and it will ignite all other burners you want to use.
Boost Burners
Let’s cut to the chase: These burners work as advertised. We clocked them approaching 800°F, providing ample and satisfying sear power that gets the job done. Check out this 1-inch+ T-Bone seared 3 minutes per side.
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Bread test for even heat
Our bread test indicated even heat front to back with a moderate drop off on each side.
Additionally
Spirits have a double walled hood designed to help mitigate heat transfer from the interior cookbox to the exterior.
And a 12,000 BTU side burner.
The grease management system consists of a large grease tray that slides out from the back. It funnels gunk down into a removable catch pan accessed from the front.
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No more open air carts
Responding to consumer research, all Spirits have enclosed carts to conceal the LP tank. None have Weber’s LP tank gauge that gives a rough estimate of fuel level by weight.
Basic Spirit models have large, built-in, analog hood temperature gauges. Premium models, like the Weber Spirit EP-435 Gas Grill reviewed here, have a digital temperature gauge mounted on the right side shelf.
Weber states, “This digital readout is designed to provide an average temperature reading from within the cookbox to help guide the grilling experience.” Displayed temp and actual temp at the cook surface will diverge especially when 2 zone setups are used, including use of the Boost Burners. Since Spirit has no integrated meat probe, you REALLY NEED accurate digital thermometers anyway, so click here to learn why digital thermometers are the most important tool in your barbecue tool box and explore our searchable thermometer reviews.
None of the new Spirit models are smart grills that integrate Weber Connect Wi-Fi technology to communicate with Weber’s app on your smart phone.
4-Burner Spirits can convert from grill to griddle with an optional, rust resistant griddle insert.
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3-Burner models can use Weber’s Crafted griddle insert.
Weber Crafted
Upgraded models include a Weber Crafted Frame kit that works with Crafted Accessories such as griddles, pizza stones, woks and Dutch ovens.
And all are compatible with the Weber Works Accessories System.
Weber Works
Weber Works is a fairly new line of accessories that first appeared in 2024 with Weber’s Slate Griddles and is now being incorporated into their new products for 2025. All new Spirits have special rails on the side shelves that accept snap-on Weber Works tool hooks, cup holders, towel racks and grill lights.
Premium models, like the Weber Spirit EP-435 Gas Grill reviewed here, are compatible with side table drop-in accessories like cutting boards and tool caddies. We really like the covered trays that allow you to take prepared foods directly from the indoor kitchen to a secure spot on the outdoor grill.
Conclusion
In many ways, Spirits are to gas grills what Weber kettles are to charcoal grills. Everyman’s Grill, a Gasser for the Masses. Folks who bought Spirits—and there are an awful lot of them— overwhelmingly post positive reviews with top ratings. The 2025 line carries on the spirit of the Spirit legacy and gives it a boost to boot. The distinction of being Weber’s most popular gas grill is noteworthy. Therefore, once again, the Weber Spirit EP-435 Gas Grill wins our AmazingRibs.com Best Value Platinum Award.
Warranty
10 years: Cook box, lid assembly and stainless steel tube burners.
5 years: Cooking grates, stainless steel flavorizer bars.
2 Years: All remaining parts.
We thank Weber for providing a Spirit for our review.
