Weber Crafted Grates vs. Solid Steel (The Truth) | Arteflame

The Verdict: Arteflame vs. Weber Crafted Grates

If you are looking for maximum cooking surface area and professional-grade searing, the Arteflame Carbon Steel Grill Insert is the superior choice because it replaces the entire grate, turning your kettle into a 360-degree plancha. Conversely, the Weber Crafted Outdoor Kitchen Collection is best suited for grillers who prioritize modularity, as it requires a separate frame kit to swap between smaller inserts like a glazing stone, wok, or searing grate.

Which Griddle System Offers Better Performance?

When upgrading a Weber Kettle or gas grill, the primary decision lies between specialized performance (Arteflame) and modular versatility (Weber Crafted). Below is a direct comparison of the specifications that matter most to outdoor cooks.

How Does the Cooking Surface Area Compare?

The most significant difference between these two systems is the usable cooking real estate.

Arteflame: Maximizing the Firebox

The Arteflame insert is designed to replace your existing wire grate entirely. It provides a solid carbon steel surface that covers virtually the entire opening of the grill, leaving a center opening for wood or charcoal access. This design allows you to cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously—searing steaks near the center while roasting vegetables on the outer ring.

Weber Crafted: The Modular Approach

The Weber Crafted system utilizes a rectangular insert that sits within a specialized frame. While high quality, the actual griddle or searing surface is significantly smaller than the full diameter of the grill. This limits the amount of food you can cook at once on the flat surface, forcing you to use the standard wire grates for the rest of the meal.

Pro Tip: For the best results on an Arteflame, treat the carbon steel like a cast-iron skillet. Build up the seasoning layer over time by applying a thin coat of grapeseed oil after every cook. This creates a natural, chemical-free non-stick surface that rivals Teflon.

Which Material Creates the Best Sear?

Carbon Steel (Arteflame)

Arteflame inserts are cut from solid US steel. Carbon steel conducts heat efficiently and can withstand incredibly high temperatures without cracking. Because it is a solid piece of metal, it eliminates "hot spots" often found in thinner pans, ensuring an even, edge-to-edge sear (the Maillard reaction) that locks in flavor.

Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron (Weber Crafted)

Weber uses porcelain-enameled cast iron. While excellent for heat retention, the enamel coating can be prone to chipping if handled roughly or cleaned with abrasive tools. Once chipped, moisture can penetrate and cause rust. Additionally, the thermal shock resistance of enamel is generally lower than that of raw carbon steel.

Is the Installation Process Difficult?

The Simplicity of Drop-In

Arteflame wins on ease of use. There is no assembly required. You simply remove your old wire grate and drop the Arteflame insert onto the existing grill grate supports. It is an instant upgrade that takes seconds.

The Frame Kit Requirement

Weber Crafted requires more setup. You must purchase and install the Weber Crafted Frame Kit, which serves as the foundation for the various inserts. If you have an older model grill, you may need to verify compatibility or purchase additional adapters to ensure the frame sits correctly.

Pro Tip: When using the Arteflame insert on a kettle grill, arrange your charcoal in a "ring of fire" or pile it on one side to create distinct heat zones. This allows you to move food from the intense heat of the center hole to the cooler outer edges to finish cooking without burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an Arteflame insert on any round grill?

Arteflame manufactures inserts specifically sized for Weber Kettles (22" and 26"), Big Green Egg, Kamado Joe, and other round grills. As long as you select the size matching your specific grill model, it will fit perfectly as a drop-in replacement.

Do I need to season the Weber Crafted grates?

Generally, no. Weber Crafted grates are porcelain-enameled, meaning they do not require the initial seasoning process that raw cast iron or carbon steel does. However, you must be gentle during cleaning to avoid damaging the enamel coating.

Is carbon steel better than cast iron for grilling?

Carbon steel is often preferred for outdoor griddle cooking because it heats up faster than cast iron and is lighter and less brittle. While both retain heat well, carbon steel's surface becomes smoother and more non-stick the more you use it, making it ideal for smashing burgers or frying eggs.