Okay since you asked, I will share my thoughts on why I chose an SNS Kettle over a Weber. First let me say I have owned Weber’s most my adult life including a 1998 EZ 18.5, a Genesis Silver-A, Smokey Joe-14, a Genesis E-310 and a WSM-22. After having the Smokey Mountain-22, I got reinvigorated around charcoal cooking and loved the versatility you have with a Kettle and the right accessories. I was initially interested in the Weber Performer, which was in my (wife's) price range of <$500. However, after reading a ton of reviews and comparing the Performer and SNS Kettle side by side, I noticed the SNS had a few more features that were important to me.
Price/Value: Advantage SNS - they both retail for about $350, however the SNS comes with a $70 slow-in-sear insert where Weber charges an extra $26 for charcoal baskets.
Design/Features: Advantage SNS - let’s face it, the SNS Kettle is a direct rip off of the Weber Performer design; obviously the shape and basic dimensions, to the side table, to the lid catch, to the one touch cleaning system, to the 4-wheel design and lower shelf. However SNS has made a few improvements to their Kettle that Weber should have done years ago. Starting with the temp probe hole and cover, then putting the temp gauge closer to the grate and under the vent away from the heat for more accurate readings. It also includes an easy spin grill grate that moves easily to assist with alternating between cold and hot zones… ideal for searing. Then finally the wonderful little smoke hole which makes temp control a breeze and 225 a reality I could hardly achieve on my other Weber charcoal grills. On a single load of charcoal in the ring (about 110 briquets) and diffusor, I was able to hold 225 for 10 ½ hours before temps dropped. That is WAY longer then I’ve ever achieved on a Weber Kettle.
Weber Advantages: Before it looks like I’m a 100% SNS fan boy let me recognize a few things that are still better about a Weber. Resell Value - I'm amazed at how well Weber grills in serviceable shape can still hold value in the open market. It will be a long time before an SNS grill gains that kind of reputation. Product Offerings - Weber makes so many cool grill types, supplies and accessories, does anybody really compete with their full portfolio of stellar BBQ products? However, those choices, quality and reputation do come at a price.... cuz Weber’s ain't cheap.
Warranty: Equal - Although Weber holds a significant reputation advantage and a great track record as a customer service organization. The two Kettles have very similar warranties with a very slight edge to SNS.
Both: Bowl and lid -10 years, no rust through/burn through
Both: One-Touch cleaning system - 5 years, no rust through/burn through
Both: Plastic components - 5 years, excluding fading or discoloration
Both: All remaining parts - 2 years
SNS: Side Shelf- 5 years no rust through excluding fading or discoloration
Quality and Output: Equal - The only real comparison here is the SNS Kettle-22 with a Performer-22 and in that regard, I believe the SNS is on par with a Weber Kettle in every way and in a few instances perhaps a bit more innovative.
Accessories/Upgrades: Equal - Obviously there is a huge secondary market for customizing a Weber Kettle, however every item that works on a 22 inch Weber Kettle will work on a 22 inch SNS Kettle as their dimensions are nearly identical. I have purchased and used a charcoal ring with heat diffusor and a vortex, accessories all originally made for a Weber-22 and they fit/work perfectly on the SNS-22.
I am still fiercely loyal to Weber and will continue to purchase their products and support the brand. However, in this case, I do think SNS has made improvements over the Weber Kettle at the $350 price point. With that being said, unless you’re in the market for a new kettle and are attracted to the SNS features like I was, I would never sell my Weber Kettle just to upgrade for a few options that could easily be addressed through a little customization or accessorizing. My 2 cents.