For a newbie, what is the big difference between the two?
Only the cheap Weber Spirit gas grills are, the kettles and WSMs are all made in USA.I understood Weber has moved their manufacturing facilty to China. That issue aside, the biggest advantage with the ceramic cookers is their ability to retain heat. To me that advantage comes at the cost of weight, the added price and fragility. I know of a person who bought one used and dropped it thinking he could move it himself....smashed it to pieces! Bang for the buck...Weber hands down!
I have both & love both.
See, both cookers can live together in peace and harmony under one roof.
Regards,
Chris
you are going to be paying more for the hardwood lump.....