Best Kamado Grill: Top Picks for 2024

Kamado grills have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their versatility and ability to cook food to perfection. These grills originated in Japan and are made from ceramic or other heat-resistant materials. They are designed to retain heat and moisture, making them ideal for slow-cooking, smoking, and grilling.

When it comes to kamado grills, the best option for most people is the charcoal-fueled variety. Charcoal provides a unique flavor and aroma that cannot be replicated by gas or electric grills. Additionally, charcoal grills are generally more affordable and offer more temperature control than their gas counterparts.

When purchasing a kamado grill, there are several critical factors to consider. The first is the size of the grill. Kamado grills come in a variety of sizes, from small portable models to large, stationary units. It’s essential to choose a size that fits your needs and is appropriate for the amount of food you plan to cook.

Another important factor to consider is the material of the grill. Ceramic grills are the most popular and offer excellent heat retention and durability. However, they are also the most expensive. Other materials, such as steel or aluminum, can be more affordable but may not retain heat as well.

Overall, the best kamado grill is one that fits your needs and budget while providing excellent temperature control and cooking capabilities. In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various kamado grills to identify the top options on the market.

Best Kamado Grills

We have researched and tested the top kamado grills on the market to bring you our list of the best options for your outdoor cooking needs. Kamado grills are known for their versatility, allowing you to grill, smoke, bake, and even roast with ease. Our list features a range of sizes and price points to fit any budget and backyard space. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for the best kamado grills.

1) Kamado Joe Classic Joe I Premium 18-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill and Smoker

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If you’re looking for a versatile grill and smoker that can cook different foods at different temperatures, the Kamado Joe Classic Joe I Premium 18-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill and Smoker is worth considering.

PROS

The Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System allows you to cook multiple dishes simultaneously, making it perfect for hosting parties or large family gatherings.
The Control Tower Top Vent lets you adjust the airflow for precise temperature control, so you can smoke meats at low temperatures or sear steaks at high temperatures.
The slide-out ash drawer makes cleaning up a breeze, eliminating the need to remove the internal components to dispose of ashes.

CONS

The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I is heavy and bulky, making it difficult to move around or store.
The grill takes a while to heat up, so you’ll need to plan ahead if you’re cooking for a large group.
The price point may be too high for some buyers, especially those who only grill occasionally.

Overall, we think the Kamado Joe Classic Joe I Premium 18-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill and Smoker is a great investment for serious grillers who want a versatile, high-quality grill that can handle a variety of cooking styles. With its durable construction, precise temperature control, and easy-to-clean design, this grill is sure to impress even the most discerning grill masters.

2) Weber Summit Kamado E6 Charcoal Grill

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If you’re looking for a versatile and durable kamado grill, the Weber Summit Kamado E6 is a great choice.

PROS

Dual-walled insulation for precise temperature changes and heat retention
Extra-large 24″ cooking area to feed a crowd or for a two-zone setup
Adjustable grate for low and slow smoking or high-heat searing

CONS

Heavy at 132 pounds, which can make it difficult to move around
Expensive compared to some other kamado grills on the market
Assembly required, which can take some time and effort

We were impressed by the Summit Kamado’s ability to maintain consistent low temperatures for smoking, and its rapid-fire lid damper boosted air flow to quickly reach high heat for searing. The built-in lid thermometer also made it easy to monitor the temperature inside the grill.

Cleanup was hassle-free thanks to the one-touch cleaning system, and the diffuser plate helped maintain consistent low temperatures for smoking. The Char-Basket Charcoal Fuel Holders also made it easy to organize charcoal for direct or indirect grilling.

Overall, we recommend the Weber Summit Kamado E6 Charcoal Grill for those looking for a high-quality and versatile kamado grill that can handle any size feast.

3) Char-Griller® AKORN® Kamado Charcoal Grill and Smoker

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If you’re looking for a versatile grill that can handle both high heat grilling and low and slow cooking, the Char-Griller AKORN Kamado charcoal grill is a great option. With a large cooking area and best-in-class features, this grill delivers great results and is easy to use and clean.

PROS

The triple-walled steel insulated design helps maintain consistent temperatures and makes it easy to control the heat levels with the indexed adjustable dual dampers and thermometer.
The cast iron grates and warming rack make cooking for the whole crew a breeze, while the bottom storage shelf and foldable side shelf workstations with BBQ tool storage hooks provide plenty of space for your grilling accessories.
The easy dump ash pan makes it quick and easy to clean up after grilling, and the 8″ locking caster wheels make it easy to move the grill around your backyard or patio.

CONS

The grill can be a bit heavy and bulky, making it difficult to move around or store when not in use.
Some users have reported issues with the locking lid not staying in place, which can be frustrating when trying to cook at high temperatures.
While the grill is relatively easy to assemble, it can take some time to put together and may require some additional tools.

Overall, we think the Char-Griller AKORN Kamado charcoal grill is a great option for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable grill that can handle a variety of cooking styles and techniques. While it may be a bit heavy and bulky, the best-in-class features and easy-to-use design make it a great choice for both novice and experienced grillers alike.

4) Kamado Joe Big Joe Series III 24-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Premium Cart, SloRoller Insert and 450 Cooking Square Inches in Red, Model KJ15041021 Big Joe III with Cart and Side Shelves

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If you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality kamado grill, the Kamado Joe Big Joe Series III is definitely worth considering.

PROS

The SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber is a game changer, distributing smoke and heat in rolling, recirculating waves to enhance flavor and reduce hot spots.
The 3-Tier Divide & Conquer system allows for flexible cooking, freeing you to cook different foods in different styles at different temperatures—all at the same time.
The Kontrol Tower Top Vent maintains consistent air setting for precise airflow management during dome opening and closing, allowing you to smoke from 225F all the way to searing at 750F.

CONS

The Kamado Joe Big Joe Series III is quite expensive, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
Some users have reported manufacturing defects with the ceramic under the bands, making it difficult for the band to stay seated.
Assembly requires two people and can be a bit challenging.

We recently had the opportunity to try out the Kamado Joe Big Joe Series III, and we were thoroughly impressed with its performance. The SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber truly is a game changer, producing delicious, evenly cooked food with enhanced flavor. We were also impressed with the 3-Tier Divide & Conquer system, which allowed us to cook multiple dishes at once with ease.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Kamado Joe Big Joe Series III is quite expensive, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget. Additionally, some users have reported manufacturing defects with the ceramic under the bands, making it difficult for the band to stay seated. However, we did not experience this issue ourselves.

Assembly did require two people and was a bit challenging, but we were able to get it set up without too much trouble. Overall, we highly recommend the Kamado Joe Big Joe Series III to anyone in the market for a high-quality kamado grill.

5) Captiva Designs 4-Burners Propane Gas BBQ Grill

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If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient option for outdoor cooking, the Captiva Designs 4-Burners Propane Gas BBQ Grill is a great choice.

PROS

The porcelain-enameled cast iron grill grates are heavy duty, non-stick, rust-resistant, and crack-resistant, providing even heat when working with the 4 stainless steel burners and enameled flame tamers.
With a large cooking area of 360 sq.in. porcelain-enameled cast iron primary cooking area plus 150 sq.in. stainless steel warm rack secondary cooking area, this grill is perfect for family and friends parties. Additionally, the cooking height is 35.5 in, higher than other gas grills, making it easier to use without bending down so low.
Cleaning this grill is a breeze thanks to the full-sized slide-out grease tray, which has been designed with a tilt so that the grease can flow directly into the hanging grease box below.

CONS

The rotisserie kit or rotisserie basket is not included, so you’ll need to purchase it separately if you want to enjoy a wider variety of barbecue cooking methods.
Although the assembly is not too difficult, the steel is very thin and may bend, so bushings would be necessary to help with the bending and structural strength.
It’s not the most durable grill, so it may not last as long as other models.

The Captiva Designs 4-Burners Propane Gas BBQ Grill is a versatile powerhouse for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Its dual-fuel capability provides flexibility, whether you’re craving the convenience of propane or the classic flavor of charcoal. The heavy-duty porcelain-enameled cast iron grates and large cooking area make it perfect for family and friends parties, while the easy-to-clean design ensures that you won’t spend hours cleaning up after your barbecue. If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient grill, the Captiva Designs 4-Burners Propane Gas BBQ Grill is definitely worth considering.

6) Kamado Joe® Joe Jr Premium 13.5-inch Portable Ceramic Charcoal BBQ Grill and Smoker with Grill Stand, Stainless Steel Cooking Grate, Heat Deflectors and Ash Tool in Red, Model KJ13RH Joe Junior Grill

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If you’re looking for a portable and high-quality grill, the Kamado Joe Joe Jr is an excellent option.

PROS

The thick-walled, heat-resistant shell locks in smoke and moisture at any temperature, ensuring that your food is juicy and flavorful.
The cast-iron air vent allows for precise temperature control, giving you the ability to cook your food to perfection.
The 304 stainless steel cooking grate is durable and easy to clean, making it a breeze to maintain your grill.

CONS

The grill is relatively small, with only 150 square inches of cooking surface area, so it may not be suitable for larger gatherings.
The stand is not very stable, so you’ll need to be careful when opening the lid to avoid tipping the grill over.
The price point is on the higher side, so it may not be the best option if you’re on a tight budget.

Overall, we highly recommend the Kamado Joe Joe Jr for anyone looking for a portable and high-quality grill that’s perfect for tailgating or cooking out by the lake. Its thick-walled, heat-resistant shell, cast-iron air vent, and 304 stainless steel cooking grate make it an excellent choice for any grilling enthusiast.

In our experience, the Kamado Joe Joe Jr is easy to use and produces delicious, smoky-flavored food that will impress your friends and family. Whether you’re grilling up burgers, smoking a brisket, or roasting vegetables, this grill will get the job done. Plus, its compact size makes it easy to transport and store, so you can take it with you wherever you go.

If you’re in the market for a high-quality and portable grill, the Kamado Joe Joe Jr is definitely worth considering. Its superior heat retention and heavy-duty construction make it a reliable and long-lasting investment that you won’t regret.

7) Char-Griller® AKORN® Jr. Portable Kamado Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cast Iron Grates and Locking Lid with 155 Cooking Square Inches in Ash, Model E86714 Grey

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If you’re looking for a portable kamado grill that delivers a superior grilling experience, the Char-Griller Akorn Jr. Kamado portable Charcoal grill is a great option to consider.

PROS

The easy dump ash pan makes clean up quick and easy.
The built-in handles and locking lid make it easy to move and transport.
The triple wall steel with insulation holds heat like ceramic for even cooking.

CONS

Coals take a bit longer to heat up than other grills.
The cooking area is on the smaller side, making it difficult to cook for larger groups.
The grill is not weather-resistant and should be stored indoors.

We’ve used the Char-Griller Akorn Jr. Kamado portable Charcoal grill for a variety of outdoor cooking events and have found it to be a reliable and efficient grill. The easy dump ash pan makes clean up a breeze, and the built-in handles and locking lid make it easy to move and transport. The triple wall steel with insulation holds heat like ceramic for even cooking, making it easy to grill up your favorite meats and vegetables.

While the coals do take a bit longer to heat up than other grills, the even heat distribution and superior flavor make it worth the wait. The cooking area is on the smaller side, making it difficult to cook for larger groups, but it’s perfect for smaller gatherings or intimate dinners. However, it’s important to note that the grill is not weather-resistant and should be stored indoors to prevent rusting.

Overall, if you’re looking for a portable kamado grill that delivers great flavor and easy clean up, the Char-Griller Akorn Jr. Kamado portable Charcoal grill is a great choice.

8) Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series III 18-inch Charcoal Grill & Smoker

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If you’re in the market for a high-quality, versatile grill and smoker, the Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series III is an excellent choice.

PROS

The SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber ensures enhanced flavor and significantly reduced hot spots.
The 3-Tier Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System allows you to cook different foods in different styles at different temperatures—all at the same time.
The Kontrol Tower Top Vent maintains consistent air setting for precise airflow management during dome opening and closing.

CONS

The grill is quite heavy, weighing in at 286 pounds.
The price point may be too high for some consumers.
The assembly process can be time-consuming.

We were impressed with the Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series III’s performance and features. The SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber is a game-changer, resulting in delicious, evenly-smoked food. The 3-Tier Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System is also a standout feature, allowing us to cook multiple items at once with ease.

One potential downside is the weight of the grill, which can make it difficult to move around. Additionally, the assembly process can take some time, so be prepared to set aside a few hours for setup.

Overall, we highly recommend the Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series III for anyone in the market for a high-end grill and smoker. While it may be pricier than some other options, the quality and performance make it well worth the investment.

9) Kamado Joe® Joe Jr Premium 13.5-inch Portable Ceramic Charcoal BBQ Grill and Smoker with Grill Stand, Stainless Steel Cooking Grate, Heat Deflectors and Ash Tool in Red, Model KJ13RH Joe Junior Grill

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If you’re looking for a portable kamado grill that can deliver premium grilling results anywhere, then the Kamado Joe Joe Jr is worth considering.

PROS

The thick-walled, heat-resistant shell of the Joe Jr can lock in smoke and moisture at any temperature, allowing you to cook your food to perfection every time.
The cast-iron air vent of this grill offers precise temperature control, so you can cook your food exactly the way you want it.
The 304 stainless steel cooking grate of the Joe Jr is durable and can withstand high temperatures, ensuring that your food is cooked evenly and thoroughly.

CONS

The Joe Jr can be a bit unstable on its cast iron stand, which can be a problem if you’re grilling in windy conditions.
The 13.5-inch cooking surface of this grill is relatively small, so it may not be suitable for larger families or groups.
The Joe Jr can be a bit heavy, which can make it difficult to move around.

Overall, we think that the Kamado Joe Joe Jr is a great option for anyone who wants a portable kamado grill that can deliver premium grilling results. With its thick-walled, heat-resistant shell, cast-iron air vent, and 304 stainless steel cooking grate, this grill can cook your food to perfection every time. While it may be a bit unstable on its cast iron stand and a bit heavy to move around, we think that the pros of this grill far outweigh the cons. So if you’re looking for a portable kamado grill that can deliver great results, then we highly recommend the Kamado Joe Joe Jr.

10) Kamado Joe Big Joe II Grill

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We highly recommend the Kamado Joe Big Joe II Grill for anyone looking to upgrade their outdoor cooking game. This grill is packed with features that make it easy to use and versatile enough to cook a variety of foods.

PROS

The air lift hinge reduces the weight of the dome, making it easy to lift with just one finger. This makes it comfortable to use and helps prevent accidents.
The divide and conquer flexible cooking system allows for multiple levels of cooking, making it easy to cook different foods at the same time. This feature also doubles the cooking space, freeing up room on the grill.
The all-aluminum, no-rust, rain-proof control tower top vent ensures consistent airflow, making it easy to manage the temperature of the grill.

CONS

The grill is heavy and difficult to move around, so it’s best to find a permanent spot for it in your backyard.
The price point is higher than some other grills on the market, but the quality and features make it worth the investment.
The assembly instructions can be a bit confusing and time-consuming, so make sure to set aside enough time to put it together.

Overall, the Kamado Joe Big Joe II Grill is a fantastic investment for anyone looking to take their outdoor cooking to the next level. With its versatile cooking system, easy-to-use features, and durable construction, this grill is sure to be a favorite for years to come.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best kamado grill, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:

Size

The size of the kamado grill is an important consideration. You want to make sure that it is large enough to accommodate the amount of food you plan to cook. A larger grill will also allow you to cook different types of food simultaneously. However, keep in mind that a larger grill may be more difficult to move or store.

Material

The material of the kamado grill is another important factor to consider. Most kamado grills are made from ceramic, which is durable and retains heat well. However, there are also models made from steel or other materials. Steel grills are often more affordable but may not retain heat as well as ceramic grills.

Temperature Control

Temperature control is a key feature of any kamado grill. Look for a grill that allows you to easily adjust the temperature and maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. Some grills have multiple vents that allow for precise temperature control.

Accessories

Many kamado grills come with accessories such as grilling grates, heat deflectors, and ash tools. Look for a grill that includes the accessories you need or allows you to purchase them separately. This will make it easier to use the grill and achieve the desired results.

In summary, when choosing the best kamado grill, consider the size, material, temperature control, and accessories. By taking these factors into account, you can select a grill that meets your needs and helps you achieve delicious results every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for in a high-quality kamado grill?

When looking for a high-quality kamado grill, there are a few key features to consider. First, look for a grill made from high-quality materials, such as ceramic, that can withstand high temperatures and maintain consistent heat. Additionally, consider the size of the grill, as well as any additional features such as adjustable vents, ash removal systems, and cooking surfaces.

How do the top kamado grills on the market compare in terms of durability and performance?

The top kamado grills on the market are known for their durability and performance. Ceramic grills are typically the most durable, able to withstand high temperatures and resist cracking or chipping. When it comes to performance, the top kamado grills offer consistent heat, even cooking, and the ability to smoke, grill, and bake with ease.

What are the benefits of using a ceramic kamado grill over other types?

Ceramic kamado grills offer a number of benefits over other types of grills. They are highly durable, able to maintain consistent heat, and offer a versatile range of cooking options. Additionally, ceramic grills are known for their ability to retain moisture, resulting in juicy and flavorful meats.

Which kamado grills offer the best value for their price?

The best value kamado grills will vary depending on individual needs and preferences. However, some top options to consider include the Kamado Joe Classic II, the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker, and the Vision Grills Classic B Series.

Can you recommend a kamado grill that is comparable to the Big Green Egg in terms of quality?

While the Big Green Egg is known for its quality, there are a number of comparable kamado grills on the market. The Kamado Joe Classic II, Primo Oval XL, and Vision Grills Classic B Series are all highly rated options with similar features and capabilities.

What are the long-term maintenance and care tips for a kamado grill to ensure its longevity?

To ensure the longevity of your kamado grill, it’s important to properly maintain and care for it. This includes regularly cleaning the grill and ash pan, replacing any damaged parts, and storing the grill in a dry and protected area when not in use. Additionally, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and care to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Best Kamado Grill: Top Picks for 2024

Best Kamado Grills