The comparison of the Weber Jumbo Joe versus the Weber GoAnywhere is subjective since they have fundamentally different designs. Although there is no “apples to apples” comparison between these two grills I have no hesitation in recommending the Weber Jumbo Joe
The Weber GoAnywhere is an odd child in the Weber family. This rectangular portable charcoal grill is a transformation of Weber’s first portable gas grill sold under the same name.
Advantages of the GoAnywhere:
- The legs on the grill fold up onto the top of the grill making it very compact when not in use.
- The grill is rectangular which is a style preferred by some people.
- Small distance between charcoal grate and cooking grate (2.5 inches) makes the grill great for searing.
Advantages of the Jumbo Joe:
- The 268 square inches of grilling surface is 67% larger than the 160 square inches on the GoAnywhere.
- Classic Weber kettle design.
- Larger distance between charcoal grate and cooking grate (3.75 inches) is more forgiving.
The Go Anywhere typically sells for about $20 less than the Jumbo Joe; don’t let this be a decision point for you. The GoAnywhere is a fine little grill and if you are into rectangles then I am not going to try to talk you into buying a kettle.
If what you want is a great portable grill then spend the extra $20 and get the much larger Jumbo Joe.
Full disclaimer: I have never cooked on a GoAnywhere but have put my hands on one for measurements.