Best Overall
Char-Griller E06614
- Insulated design
- Easy Lift Handles
- Option to control heat levels
Best Portable
Lifesmart Kamado Grill
- 6-IN-1 Kamado Grill
- Infinite options for grilling
- Dual vent temperature controls
Best Budget
VESSILS Kamado Charcoal Grill
- 5 in 1 versatile outdoor grill
- Dual-handle iron stand
- Weather-resistant smoker grill
A kamado grill is a type of ceramic cooker that can be used for all sorts of outdoor cooking. They come in a variety of sizes, and can be used to cook everything from ribs to pizza. Kamados are a popular choice for cooking enthusiasts because they are versatile and durable. If you’re thinking about purchasing a kamado grill, here are some things you should know.
There is a reason the kamado grill has become so popular in recent years. These versatile grills can be used for everything from smoking to searing, making them the perfect choice for anyone who likes to cook outdoors.
Kamado grills are more precisely referred to as Japanese barbecue. It is different from your regular grill. It is a barbecue of japanese style and is made up of ceramic. These are preferred over regular ones as they are quite versatile and can multitask easily.
The kamado grills can save up a lot of your time and effort making it overall more impressive. A kamado grill can also retain heat making your food even more delicious with its smoky flavor. The kamado grills are easy to maintain and clean. So, this is an all-in-one package that you just can’t miss!
In this article, we’ll cover all the things you need to know about a kamado grill before buying it.
However, with so many different models and brands available, it could become tougher to figure out which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best kamado grills on the market today.
We’ll help you decide which one is right for your needs, and give you some tips on how to get the most out of your kamado grill. So read on to find out more!
Quick Overview Of Best Kamado Grills
Best Overall: Char-Griller E06614
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Runner-Up, Best Overall: Kamado Joe KJ23RHC
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Editor’s Choice: Weber 18201001 Summit Kamado E6 Charcoal Grill
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Medium-Sized Option: PIT BOSS 71220
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Best With Smoker: Char-Griller E16620
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Best With Table: VISION Grills Ceramic Kamado
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Best Portable: Lifesmart 18″, 6-In-1 Kamado Grill
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Best Design: Char-Griller E6520
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Perfect for Small Groups: Kamado Joe BJ24RH Big Joe Grill
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Best Budget: VESSILS 13 Inch Kamado Charcoal BBQ Grill
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10 Best Kamado Grills In 2023
Contents
Best Overall: Char-Griller E06614 AKORN Jr. Kamado Grill
Char-Griller Kamado style grill weighs 33 pounds and is made out of heavy-gauge powder-coated steel. This portable BBQ smoker and grill can prove to be your perfect companion for outdoor cookouts, be it at camping, tailgating, barbecuing, or a backyard cooking with your friends and family. It is compact, convenient, and highly effective for high-temperature cooking or those slow-cooked delicacies.
The grill is crafted with an insulated design with a locking lid that locks in the heat, smoke, and moisture resulting in scrumptious barbecue dishes. It is attached with cast iron cooking grates that retain heat and deliver adequate results in no time.
Further, you get a total cooking space of 155 square inches which is adequate for smaller families and small get together. You can make an array of dishes at different temperatures like burgers, steak, roasted wings, and seared fish. Moreover, the precision temperature gauge gives you ample control over the temperature range and the dual dampers help in regulating the temperature.
You can easily clean the grill with a removable easy dump ash pan, simply remove the pan dump the ash and get back to grilling. Overall, the grill delivers effective performance and durability, thus it can be an adequate choice for your outdoor kitchen.
Pros
- Heavy Constructed Body
- Assembling Is Very Easy
- Easy To Maintain Its Cleaning
- Gives Versatility In Cooking
Cons
- Some Quality Related Issues
Runner-Up, Best Overall: Kamado Joe KJ23RHC Classic Joe II Charcoal Grill
Kamado Joe grills are classic when it comes to Kamado-style grills, their creative build, high-quality designs make them stand out from the rest. Weighing 250 pounds this Classic Joe II grill is made of stainless steel and ceramic, which imparts its reliability and much-needed durability.
This 18-inch grill is delivered to you with a cart that has locking casters and wheels, thus you can easily move it around in your backyard according to your convenience. Its signature half-moon design serves enough room to circulate the heat and smoke throughout, resulting in consistently cooked food that is loved by everyone.
The grill is featured with a two-tier divide and conquer system, which doubles the total cooking surface area and delivers you a comprehensive cooking space of 245 square inches. You can create a variety of dishes at different temperatures all at the same time.
The grill dome can be easily lifted with a single finger, thanks to the patented air-lift hinge that reduces the weight by approximately 96%. The six-paneled firebox further increases the grill efficiency eliminating breakages and thus adding to the overall durability.
Pros
- Maintain Natural Flavors Of Foods
- Sturdy Product
- Wheels Fitted For Easy Movement
- Very Nicely Designed
Cons
- Pricey
Editor’s Choice: Weber 18201001 Summit Kamado E6 Charcoal Grill
Weber is a popular name in the niche of grills and smokers, they are known for delivering quality products at a reasonable price range. This weber E6 kamado-style grill takes this legacy further. It is made of steel and enameled with porcelain for effective functionality and long-term durability.
You get a cooking grate that can be adjusted according to the choice of cooking if you want to cook slow-cooked pulled meat or you are seeking high-temperature sears. Further, you get a char-basket for effective fuel organization for indirect or direct heat grilling and smoking.
The grill is pre-installed with several features that help in temperature regulation, for instance, you get a built-in-thermometer that helps in monitoring the grill temperature and it is equipped with cook-zone indicators. There is a diffuser plate for adequate low-temperature cooking and lid dampers to control the amount of heat and smoke in the smoker.
You can easily clean the smoker with a one-touch cleaning system, simply remove the ash-catcher, dump the content and get back to cooking. Although the grill is great for your outdoor kitchen and cooking, the customer support is a little patchy.
Pros
- Quickly Change Temperature
- Fast To Reach High Heat
- Gives Untroubled Cleaning
- Very Large Cooking Area
Cons
- Patchy customer service
Medium-Sized Option: PIT BOSS 71220 Kamado BBQ Ceramic Grill
Summer is here, and that means grilling out with friends and family! The Kamado BBQ Grill is the perfect way to cook up a delicious meal outdoors. This grill is made of ceramic and can reach temperatures over 700 degrees, making it perfect for searing meat or cooking pizza. With its easy-to-use digital controls, you’ll be able to cook your food just the way you like it. Plus, the grill’s compact size makes it easy to transport and store when not in use.
Also, this grill is perfect for all your grilling needs, from burgers and hot dogs to steaks and chicken. With its ceramic construction, it cooks evenly and efficiently, giving your food the perfect flavor every time. So add some sizzle to your summer cookouts with the this Grill!
Pros
- Dual Tier Cooking Area Available
- Holding Is Solid
- Easy To Store Foods
Cons
- Gaps In Lid
Best With Smoker: Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill
Are you looking for a reliable and durable charcoal grill that can help you cook up some amazing barbecued meals? If so, this Grill might be just what you need. With its sturdy construction and convenient features, this grill is sure to make your grilling experience a breeze.
The Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado charcoal grill is a high-quality, affordable option for anyone looking to get into smoking and grilling. This unit is made of durable steel, with a cooking area of 447 square inches. It also features an adjustable damper for precision heat control, along with a rust-resistant coating that will keep your grill looking new for years to come.
Pros
- Best For High And Low Grilling
- Gives Very Large Cooking Space
- Very Easy To Operate
- Easily Maintains Temperature
Cons
- Material Quality Issues
Best With Table: VISION Grills Ceramic Kamado
The Vision Grills is an excellent choice if you are looking for a high-quality and durable kamado grill. It is an ultra-premium ceramic grill that offers all the features and benefits of a traditional kamado while adding some innovative new features. It is made of premium-grade ceramics that are virtually indestructible and offer excellent heat retention, so you can cook low and slow or high and fast with equal precision.
It also comes with a built-in thermometer, making it easy to monitor the temperature inside the grill. Plus, it comes with a host of other features, such as a built-in temperature gauge, an ash catcher, a nest for holding your food, and more. Plus, it has a unique design that will add style to your outdoor space. If you’re looking for the ultimate ceramic grilling experience, then look no further.
Pros
- Gives Versatility In Grilling
- Maintains Natural Flavour Very Well
- Very Sturdy
- Assembling Is Not Very Tough
Cons
- Parts Quality Is Not Good
Best Portable: Lifesmart 18″, 6-In-1 Kamado Grill
Summertime is the perfect time to break out the grill and have some fun cooking outdoors. Also, I’m always on the lookout for a new and interesting piece of cookware to add to my kitchen collection, so when I came across this Kamado Grill, I knew I had to check it out. This grill is definitely not your average backyard barbecue unit – it has a ton of features that make it perfect for cooking up all sorts of dishes.
The Lifesmart Kamado Grill is a must-have for anyone who loves to cook outdoors! This versatile grill can be used as a smoker, oven, or griddle, and it comes with an ash catcher and built-in thermometer so you can always make sure your food is cooked perfectly. Plus, the porcelain enamel coating prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. With its large cooking surface, you’ll be able to cook up a feast for the whole family. Plus, the included stand means you can use it anywhere – on your patio or even in your backyard.
Pros
- Easy To Port
- Maintain Temperature Perfectly
- Easy To Set Up
Cons
- Very Small
Best Design: Char-Griller E6520 AKORN Kamado Charcoal Grill
Looking for a durable and reliable Kamado Charcoal Grill? This may be the perfect grill for you! This cart-style grill is made of heavy-duty steel and comes with an ash catcher, which makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s easy to assemble – you’ll be cooking up delicious meals in no time!
With its ample cooking surface and adjustable heat settings, this grill can handle everything from burgers to brisket. Plus, the cart design makes it easy to move your grill around your yard or patio. This cart-style grill is made of powder-coated steel and features a porcelain-enameled firebox and cooking grate. It also has an easy-to-use ash catcher, which makes cleaning up a breeze.
Pros
- Gives Full Value Of Your Money
- Solid Construction
- Easy Maintenance
Cons
- Rusting Issues
Perfect for Small Groups: Kamado Joe BJ24RH Big Joe Grill
Looking for a large grill that can handle all of your grilling needs? The Kamado Joe Grill is the perfect option! This grill has a whopping 24 inches of cooking surface, which is perfect for grilling large quantities of food. Plus, it comes with an adjustable coal tray so you can customize your cooking experience. Plus, the ceramic construction means that your food will be cooked evenly and perfectly every time.
It also features an electronic ignition system and adjustable dampers, so you can cook like a pro. Plus, the built-in thermometer ensures that your food is always cooked. Whether you’re grilling up burgers and hot dogs for a summer party or smoking a rack of ribs, this is sure to meet your needs! perfectly.
Pros
- Very Versatile Product
- Easy To Access
- Cooking Is Very Flexible
- Gives Natural Flavors
Cons
- Customer Service Is Not So Good
Best Budget: VESSILS 13 Inch Kamado Charcoal BBQ Grill
Looking for a quality, durable charcoal grill that will last? This top-of-the-line grill is made of premium materials and features construction that will make grilling a breeze. With a porcelain-enameled finish, this grill is easy to clean and ready to use right out of the box! This little grill is perfect for apartments, small decks, or anywhere else you want to cook up a nice piece of meat.
This high-quality grill is made of durable, weather-resistant stainless steel and has a cooking area of 360 square inches. It’s also equipped with an airtight lid seal and adjustable dampers for temperature control. It’s also really easy to use, so even if you’re a grilling novice, you’ll be able to make the perfect steak every time.
Pros
- Portable Product
- Heavy And Sturdy Body
- Easy To Hold
Cons
- Not For Big Occasions
What to Look for in a Kamado Grill?
Before selecting any of the Kamado grills, you should definitely look at these parameters and then only go for any specific Kamado grill.
Size
The size is one of the important factors to consider before buying a kamado grill. The size of the kamado grill depends on the number of people you need it for; do you need the grill for large servings or small servings. You also need to keep in mind that the larger the size, the heavier the weight. If you need the kamado grill for family gatherings or a crowd, you’ll need a large sized grill for about 20-24 inches, and the large sized grills are heavier so choose accordingly. Similarly, if you need a kamado grill for less people or a small family, a small sized grill about 7-11 inches will work perfect for you.
Material
The next important thing to look for in a kamado grill is its material. The material of the grill shows the durability and quality of the grill. Kamado grills are made up of different materials like ceramic, iron, stainless steel etc. The best among these materials is ceramic as it is not only durable but also good at controlling temperatures, whether it be high or low. Though, a ceramic kamado grill has one drawback that it is heavy and can be difficult to lift up, it can break or get a crack. The other materials like steel and cast iron are a substitute but they are not as good and durable as ceramic.
Bells and Whistles
This is also an important feature that you should know about before buying a kamado grill. The best thing about a kamado grill is its temperature maintenance and multitasking. A kamado grill has an egg-shaped body with vents situated on the body. It also has a thermometer on its lid. Bells and whistles are quite practical as they can indicate when the food is cooked and ready to be served. They can be used for other tasks as well.
Accessories
Accessories available with the kamado grill is yet another thing to take into consideration while buying a kamado grill. While many kamado grills also offer the accessories required with them, some may not and in that case you will have to choose and buy the accessories by yourself
separately. So, it’s always better to be prepared beforehand. Some of the required accessories with a kamado grill are: a durable in-built thermometer, table, sear grate, cooking racks, heat deflectors, table. If you are not provided with these accessories along with the kamado grill, do look for these important accessories first.
Price
Price is yet another thing to take into account while buying a kamado grill. A good kamado grill is expensive, these do not come at cheap rates. So, if you don’t really need it, don’t buy it. A kamado grill will cost you around $700-$1000. Although, there are also a few kamado grills available at less rates ranging from $300 or $400. There are only a few models available at less rates over the web, but you can still check out. If you have a budget, you need to choose accordingly.
Maintenance
The maintenance is one of the important features to consider in a kamado grill. The kamado grill should be easy to use and function according to your needs. You should always check that you are able to operate the kamado grill without any difficulty. Moving on, it should also be easy to clean; it shouldn’t take much of your effort and time. It can often be hassling to clean the kitchen appliances, so ensure before buying that the cleaning process is easy.
How Kamado Grills Work?
This japanese styled grill is quite unique in itself and so is its way of working. The kamado grills have vents in them that allow the air to pass in order to cook food fast and more efficiently. The thick ceramic walls of a kamado grill provide heat retention. The air passes from the bottom of the grill to the inside and then releases through the top vent, you can easily control the temperature by operating these vents. The working of a kamado grill is a very simple process, also one of the reasons why a kamado grill is preferred by people.
How To Use A Kamado Grill?
A kamado grill is multifunctional so you can grill, roast, smoke and cook different food items in this at the same time. You need to use charcoal in order to use a kamado grill. If you’re new to kamado grilling, don’t start using it at high temperatures or without any information. Firstly, assemble your kamado grill and clean it to ensure no foul smell, dirt is there. Now, put the heat deflector on the fire ring. After this, place the sear grate on the cooking rack. All you have to do now is just set the temperature for the food items you’ll cook and then open the bottom vent to let the air pass through. Place the food items on the racks and close the lid. Now, let it cook and adjust the temperature whenever needed. See! That’s how easy it was to use a kamado grill.
Who Should Buy A Kamado Grill?
This can depend from person to person. Are you a foodie? Do you like grilling or smoking food? Do you like cooking new things? If yes, then you should definitely buy a kamado grill without any second thought. A kamado grill is surely of use to the person who likes grilling, roasting and cooking food. Though that’s not the only criteria to decide whether you should buy a kamado grill or not. If you feel the need to purchase it, you should buy it. But if you don’t really need a kamado grill, you should not buy it as it will be of no use to you. But one thing is for sure that investing in a kamado grill is always a good decision, it will be of use to you ultimately.
FAQs
What is a kamado grill?
A kamado grill is a japanese style grill that is egg shaped and can perform more than one task at a time. A kamado grill has the best heat retention and temperature control. It is made from ceramic that is quite durable and can adapt to low and high temperatures easily. A kamado grill is also multitasking; it can grill, roast, cook, all at the same time. One of the reasons why people prefer it so much is that it is versatile and can cook with utmost efficiency.
Can you use briquettes, wood or wood pellets in a kamado grill?
Yes, you can surely use briquettes, wood or wood pellets in a kamado grill. Although hardwood lump charcoal is the best fuel out there for a kamado grill, the wood chips and wood pellets also work just fine. But, you will need to soak them in water first to get the smokiness in the food. So, keep that in mind while using wood pellets.
How do you clean a kamado grill?
Cleaning a kamado grill is quite simple. Firstly, take out the charcoal, ash and other components in the kamado grill. Now just take a damp cloth and start cleaning. You can also disassemble the grill to clean all the parts thoroughly and then reassemble it. You can put the remaining ash in a piece of paper.
How do you control the temperature on a kamado grill?
There are vents in the kamado grill for controlling the temperature. You can easily adjust the bottom and top vent of the grill to control the temperature. Just open the vent holes first and then you can adjust the temperature to low or high by sliding the top vent to the side.
How do you use a kamado grill?
Using a kamado grill can be tricky for some people and easy for others. In order to use a kamado grill, you need to ensure that it is clean. After that, put the heat deflector on the fire ring. Now, just assemble everything and set the temperature required for cooking. You need charcoal or wood chips in order to use a kamado grill so that your food gets the perfect smoky flavor.
How do you light a kamado grill?
Firstly, remove the previous charcoal and Ash collected to prevent clogging. Now, just open the vent at the bottom and place new charcoal pieces over there. Put the charcoal or wood pieces over the very bottom. If you’re using wood, don’t forget to soak it with water. Once it’s all done, light the charcoal to start cooking.
What can you cook on a kamado grill?
You can cook anything of your choice in a kamado grill; be it a vegetable, chicken, fish, pork, steak, burger, pizza, sandwich and much more. You can cook, roast, grill, and smoke various food items in a kamado grill.
Why are kamado grills so expensive?
Kamado grills are not made up from any regular material, it’s made up of ceramic and that’s why kamado grills are so expensive. They have thick ceramic walls that can maintain a steady temperature with ultimate excellence. Although kamado grills are also made of cast iron and steel, they still can’t be compared to ceramic in any way.
Are kamado grills good for smoking?
A kamado grill has a heat retention feature due to which it can smoke for a longer time with just a small amount of input. They Are also excellent in locking moisture to prevent drying of food. So yes, kamado grills are perfect for smoking.
Conclusion
Kamado grills are a great investment for anyone who loves to cook outdoors. Not only do they provide an even heat distribution that allows you to cook evenly, but they also come in a variety of sizes so that you can find the perfect one for your needs. They can be used to cook anything from steak to pizza, and they’re easy to use! In this post, we’re going to take a look at the 10 best kamado grills on the market and what makes them stand out from the competition. We hope that by the end of this post, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed purchase decision and start enjoying outdoor cooking like never before!