Char-Broil Performance Cover
✅ PROS
- Heavy-duty 600D polyester with water-resistant coating, not cheap flimsy tarp material
- Adjustable hem with buckles keeps it secured in wind without cinching too tight
- Fits most 3-5 burner gas grills up to 60 inches — verified by multiple buyer photos
❌ CONS
- Not fully waterproof — heavy rain can seep through seams over time (needs reproofing)
- Air vents are minimal; can trap moisture underneath in humid climates if grill isn't cool
The Verdict
A grill cover is one of those purchases that feels boring until the first rust spot appears on your investment. The Char-Broil Performance Cover has 235 ratings averaging 4.7 stars, which is impressive for something so unglamorous. But is it actually protecting grills, or just collecting good reviews from people who haven’t owned it long enough? I dug into the specs, the buyer feedback, and the real-world tradeoffs to give you the straight answer.
What you actually get
The Performance Cover is made from 600D polyester — that’s the same weight class as decent luggage, not the flimsy 150D material you see on dollar-store covers. It has a water-resistant coating rather than a waterproof membrane, which is an important distinction we’ll get to in a moment. The hem has an adjustable drawcord with buckles, and there are two small air vents near the top to let heat and condensation escape.
As shown in the product image, it’s cut with a bit of slack around the sides — enough to clear side shelves and a propane tank, but not so baggy that it turns into a sail. Char-Broil lists it for grills up to 60 inches wide, which covers most 3 to 5-burner models from any brand, not just their own.
Performance and real-world use
The 600D fabric is the headline feature here. Buyers consistently mention how much heavier and more substantial it feels than other covers in this price range. One reviewer put it simply: “This replaced a cheap cover that shredded after one winter. The Char-Broil is noticeably thicker and the stitching is solid.”
The buckle system deserves credit. Instead of the elastic drawstring that breaks after six months, these are actual plastic buckles with a strap you can tighten. Multiple buyers in windy areas confirmed it stayed put through storms without tearing at the grommets — a common failure point on cheaper covers.
Where it falls short
Here’s the honest catch: this cover is water-resistant, not waterproof. In a light rain, you’re fine — water beads and rolls off. But in a prolonged downpour, moisture can work through the seams over time. A few long-term reviewers noted their covers started absorbing water after about a year of heavy use. The fix is simple — spray it with a fabric waterproofing treatment seasonally — but it’s worth knowing before you buy.
The air vents are also minimal. If you put the cover on while the grill is still warm (or live in a humid climate), you may see condensation on the underside. One buyer in Florida mentioned finding mildew spots on their grill after a humid summer. Letting the grill fully cool before covering solves most of this.
Who should buy this
This is the right cover if you own a mid-size gas grill and want protection that will last more than one season without spending premium money. It’s ideal for:
- Weekend grillers who keep their grill on a patio or deck year-round
- Windy-area residents who need something that won’t blow off or tear at the corners
- Budget-conscious buyers who want 80% of the performance of a $60 cover at a lower price
Skip it if you live in a region with torrential rain for weeks at a time, or if you want a truly waterproof cover you never have to think about. In those cases, you’ll want a PVC-backed or fully waterproof model with taped seams.
FAQ
Q: Will it fit my Weber or Napoleon grill? A: Most likely, if your grill is 60 inches or less in total width. The cover is designed to fit a range of 3-5 burner grills, not just Char-Broil models. Measure your grill at its widest point (including side shelves) before ordering.
Q: Does it have vents to prevent rust? A: Yes, there are two small vents near the top. They help, but they’re not a substitute for letting your grill cool completely before covering. In humid climates, consider a cover with more ventilation or check underneath periodically.
Q: Can I leave it on all winter? A: Yes, the 600D fabric handles snow and freezing temperatures without cracking. Just make sure the grill is clean and dry before covering, and reapply a waterproofing spray before winter if you’ve had it for a season.
The Verdict
Buy it if: You want a heavy-duty, well-made cover for a standard 3-5 burner gas grill that will survive wind, sun, and multiple seasons without falling apart. The 600D fabric and buckle system justify the price over cheaper alternatives.
Skip it if: You need a truly waterproof cover for extreme rain climates, or you’re covering a grill larger than 60 inches. This is a great cover, but it has limits.
Rating: 4.6/5 — A solid, dependable cover that does its job well. The water-resistance tradeoff is the only real knock, and it’s manageable with a bit of seasonal maintenance.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.