Whether you want to grill burgers, sear steak, smoke brisket, or just bake, instead of spending time in the kitchen, why not step outdoors, enjoy the sun, and utilize a kamado grill? The kamado, which is designed to do all of these culinary roles and more, is much more flexible than the grill and may be used in the same manner as a smoker or even a wood-fired oven!
Some kamado grills are complete ceramic cookers, while others are kamado style grills, although they both provide multifunctional cooking. Personal tastes and budget are only two factors to consider when searching for the finest kamado grill, so in this post we look at some of the most popular kamado and kamado-style grills, as well as some helpful advice that we hope you will find useful in your search for a new kamado grill.
Best Selection
With its large cooking surface and porcelain-coated interior, the versatile Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker Grill and Smoker is our top option.
Budget Selection
The Char-Griller E06614 Akorn Jr. Kamado Kooker Red Charcoal Grill is our budget option because of its mobility and temperature range of 200F to 700F, which allows it to compete with its heavyweight cooking siblings.
Contents
- Quick Comparison: Top 7 Best Kamado Grills
- 1. Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker Grill and Smoker
- 2. Char-Griller E06614 Akorn Jr. Kamado Kooker Red Charcoal Grill
- 3. KamadoJoe KJ23RHC Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill
- 4. Large Grill Dome Infinity Series Ceramic Kamado Charcoal Smoker Grill
- 5. Broil King 911470 Keg 5000 Charcoal Barbecue Grill
- 6. WEBER Summit Charcoal Grill
- 7. BBQ Guru Monolith Ceramic Grill with Digital DigiQ Temperature Control
- Things to Consider Before Buying The Best Kamado Grill
- Conclusion
- FAQs
- Is Big Green Egg or Kamado Joe better?
- What is the best time of year to buy a kamado grill?
- Who makes Costco kamado?
- How long will a kamado grill last?
- Who makes the best kamado?
- What is the best wood to use Kamado Joe?
- Can I leave my Kamado Joe in the winter?
- What is the best fuel for Kamado grill?
- What is the best fuel for kamado bbq?
- Is Kamado Joe made in China?
Quick Comparison: Top 7 Best Kamado Grills
Product Name | Grade |
---|---|
Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker Grill and Smoker | A+ |
Char-Griller E06614 Akorn Jr. Kamado Kooker Red Charcoal Grill | A |
KamadoJoe KJ23RHC Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill | A |
Large Grill Dome Infinity Series Ceramic Kamado Charcoal Smoker Grill | B+ |
Broil King 911470 Keg 5000 Charcoal Barbecue Grill | A |
WEBER Summit Charcoal Grill | A |
BBQ Guru Monolith Ceramic Grill with Digital DigiQ Temperature Control | A |
1. Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker Grill and Smoker
Highlighted Features
- The temperature range is 200F to 700F.
- It has a 314 square inch cast iron cooking surface as well as a 133 square inch detachable warming rack.
- The inside is made of porcelain coated 22 gauge steel, while the outside is powder coated.
- Has a one-year faulty warranty and a five-year burn-through warranty.
- It has fold-away shelves with utensil hooks as well as a steel heat gauge.
The Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Kooker Grill and Smoker can cook at temperatures ranging from 200F to 700F. It features a powder coated surface and an inside porcelain coated 22 gauge steel finish. It has a 314 sq. in. cast iron cooking surface and a 133 sq. in. detachable warming rack, for a total cooking space of 447 sq. in. Since the cooking surface is cast iron, it must be seasoned before use.
It includes a stainless heat gauge and a convenient ashpan. In addition, the Akorn includes two side shelves with utensil hooks that can be folded away when not in use. When assembling any big item that has been brought to your house, make sure that all of the pieces are there and that there is no cosmetic damage to the item.
The front wheels are 8 inches in diameter, while the rear castor locks for safety. It has a one-year guarantee against faults and a five-year warranty against corrosion or burn-through.
Pros
- It has a total cooking space of 447 square inches.
- Temperature range: 200F-700F
- Internal porcelain coating
- There are wheels and a lockable castor.
- There is a warranty included.
- Simple ash pan dump
- Stainless steel thermometer
Cons
- Is a steel and ceramic cooker, as opposed to a complete ceramic kamado.
- Before assembly, inspect for aesthetic damage.
- Seasoning the cast iron grate will assist keep food from sticking.
2. Char-Griller E06614 Akorn Jr. Kamado Kooker Red Charcoal Grill
Highlighted Features
- Red tiny Kamado grill with 153 square inches of cooking space
- It has triple wall insulation to keep its heat in.
- Can cook at temperatures ranging from 200F to 700F.
- It is lighter in weight and has solid handles for easier transportation since it is made of 22 gauge steel.
- via rust It has a one-year faulty warranty and a five-year burn guarantee.
The Char-Griller E06614 Akorn Jr. Kamado Kooker red charcoal grill has cast iron grates and a 153 sq. in. cooking surface, making it excellent for limited settings for RVing. It is lighter in weight, composed of 22 gauge steel, and has triple wall insulation.
built to keep heat in. This is not a smoker, unlike comparable grills, however the maker does sell a smoking stone and cover. For indirect cooking, you may also purchase a heat deflector. It includes sturdy handles for convenient movement and comes with an easy-to-empty ash pan. While it features an in-built temperature gauge, you may want to use a separate wireless thermometer in the cooking area for improved temperature accuracy.
This grill is ready to construct, but you should double-check that you have all of the necessary parts before you start. You should also look for any aesthetic damage. This item comes with a manufacturer warranty in case there are any problems.
Pros
- Portable kamado-style small grill in red
- 153 square inches of cooking space
- Temperature range of 200F to 700F
- Insulation on three sides of the building
- Steel 22 gauge lightweight
- Is there a warranty?
Cons
- Smoking and indirect cooking accessories must be purchased separately from the manufacturer.
- Cooking precision may need the use of an additional thermometer.
- Before using a cast iron grate, it must be seasoned.
3. KamadoJoe KJ23RHC Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill
Highlighted Features
- A bright red ceramic barbecue with HDPE foldable side shelves and an extra-large thermometer
- Includes locking castors for ease of movement.
- The air lift hinge enables for effortless lifting and keeps the lid in place no matter where you hold it.
- It features a 406 sq. in. cooking surface and a temperature range of 225F to 750F.
- You may cook meals at multiple temperatures at the same time using the Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System.
The Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System is multi-level and allows you to cook various items at different temperatures. The flaming red KamadoJoe KJ23RHC Classic II Ceramic Charcoal Grill is a thick walled and heat resistant exterior that keeps smoke and moisture in. Its feather-touch air lift hinge enables for simple lifting and keeps the lid open even if you pull your hand away. It has a split 304 stainless steel cooking grate.
It features a 406-square-inch cooking surface and can cook dishes at temperatures ranging from 225F to 750F. It also contains an enormous thermometer, foldable side shelves, and grips made of HDPE. This is a hefty ceramic grill that may need a few additional pairs of hands to install, however it does come with lockable castors for easy movement once completed. You should also inspect the grill for any damage when it arrives. It has a slide-out ash pan and an ash rake, as well as a grill and grate gripper.
Pros
- Ceramic grill in blaze red with castors
- Temperature range of 225F to 750F on a cooking surface of 406 sq. in.
- Versatile Cooking System Divide & Conquer
- Side shelves and handle made of HDPE
- Easy opening with an air lift hinge
Cons
- The grill on its pallet may be more vulnerable to damage during the shipping process.
- Since it is top-heavy and hefty, you will need assistance building it up and transporting it over rough terrain.
4. Large Grill Dome Infinity Series Ceramic Kamado Charcoal Smoker Grill
Highlighted Features
- Large multifunctional ceramic grill and smoker in blue
- Cooking temperatures range from 225°F to 750°F and the cooking area is 255 square inches.
- Terapex ceramics are used to increase heat and moisture retention.
- Ceramics are guaranteed for life, while gaskets are guaranteed for five years.
The Big Grill Dome Infinity Series ceramic kamado charcoal smoker barbecue (blue) has a temperature range of 225F to 750F plus. Its thick ceramic walls allow for optimal heat retention and employ a special Terapex Ceramic mix for juicier food.
It contains a temperature gauge and a Featherlite hinge on the lid for easy opening and shutting. Some current owners may have seen paint cracking on the dome, albeit this is covered under warranty (lifetime for ceramics and five years on gaskets). Extra grilling attachments must be purchased separately, and this model does not come with feet, however they are available directly from the manufacturer. It also lacks castors for ease of movement.
Pros
- Grills, smokers, sears, bakes, and BBQs that serve several functions
- Temperature range between 225F and 750F
- 255 square inches of cooking space
- Featherlite hinge allows for simple opening and shutting.
- There is a warranty included.
Cons
- There are no castors included for convenient movement.
- There are no cooking accessories included with this barbecue, such as a grill stand or rack extension.
- Feet for this grill must be purchased separately from the manufacturer.
5. Broil King 911470 Keg 5000 Charcoal Barbecue Grill
Highlighted Features
- Steel grill with porcelain coated cooking chamber that provides up to 480 square inches of cooking area
- A cast iron main cooking grate and a hinged steel secondary cooking grate are included.
- Its wheeled base makes traveling simpler, and it may be attached to a trailer hitch.
- It comes with a two-year limited warranty.
The Broil King 911470 Keg 5000 charcoal barbecue grill offers an insulated steel construction and 480 square inches of cooking area. It has a porcelain-coated cooking chamber. It is not as hefty as a complete ceramic grill, but it is still rather substantial.
It contains a heavy duty reversible cast iron main cooking grate that you will need to season on a regular basis, as well as a chrome plated steel secondary cooking surface that rotates for easy access to the main cooking grate. It also includes a wheeled base that can be converted for trailer hitch travel and two detachable side shelves. The manufacturer provides a two-year limited guarantee.
Pros
- insulated steel grill with porcelain coating on the inside
- 480 square inches of cooking area spread over two surfaces
- It is not as weighty as a complete ceramic grill.
- Wheeled base for simple transportation
- Side shelves are removable.
Cons
- Instead of a standard ceramic kamado, use a steel grill.
- Its cast iron grate will need to be seasoned on a regular basis.
- Since it is a hefty grill, you will want assistance in assembling it.
6. WEBER Summit Charcoal Grill
Highlighted Features
- Weber charcoal barbecue and smoker powered by Snap-jet gas burner ignition.
- Ideal for direct and indirect cooking as well as smoking
- It is ceramic lined and offers 452 square inches of cooking area.
- It comes on a heavy-duty cart with a stainless steel surface and a wire storage basket.
- void the warranty Includes a ten-year no-rust warranty.
The WEBER Summit Charcoal Grill is a high-end barbecue setup. It has a charcoal barbecue and smoker, as well as a Snap-jet individual burner gas ignition. The available cooking area is 452 square inches. The porcelain enameled double-walled bowl and lid include a built-in thermometer. It features an aluminum ash pan and a one-touch stainless steel cleaning mechanism.
It contains a stainless steel countertop and storage basket, as well as a heavy duty steel frame cart with castors, and is ideal for direct or indirect cooking. It also has a ten-year limited guarantee.
Pros
- Grill and smoker made of charcoal
- Each gas burner ignition makes illumination simple.
- Bowl and lid made of ceramic
- Cooking area is 452 square inches.
- Tabletop and storage basket made of stainless steel
- Castors on a heavy duty wagon
Cons
- To utilize gas ignition, a separate gas cylinder must be purchased.
- larger than comparable grills
7. BBQ Guru Monolith Ceramic Grill with Digital DigiQ Temperature Control
Highlighted Features
- Cooker that may be used for grilling, smoking, and baking.
- It includes a cart with castors and two bamboo side shelves.
- DigiQ digital temperature control monitors food temperature and changes grill temperature using an integrated fan.
The BBQ Guru Monolith Ceramic Grill with digital DigiQ temperature control is a multifunctional cooker that lets you place smoke chips over charcoal without raising the top. Its thermometer will monitor the temperature of your food as well as the temperature within the cooker, and this will work in conjunction with a built-in fan to manage cooking temperature. Since this improves fuel efficiency, it burns up to 50% less charcoal than comparable barbecues.
It may be used for both direct and indirect cooking, as well as smoking, grilling, and baking. It includes a castors cart, two bamboo side tables, an extension grate, and a variety of additional accessories.
Pros
- Grill and multipurpose cooker
- DigiQ is a digital temperature control system.
- Efficient use of fuel
- It includes important accessories.
Cons
- Since this is a hefty grill, additional hands will be required for construction.
Things to Consider Before Buying The Best Kamado Grill
Advantages of a Kamado Grill
Kamados are very flexible, with the ability to grill, smoke, sear, cook wood-fired pizza, and even bake bread outside. It is important to ensure that the grill you are considering purchasing will enable you to utilize it as you see fit. Not all cookers come with all of the essential pieces; you may need to purchase additional racks, smoking stones, or heat deflectors from the manufacturer.
Ceramic cookers, such as the Japanese mushikamado (rice cooker), have been used for ages in numerous cultures. During the Kofun era, China is said to have brought the kamado to Japan. During World War II, American servicemen carried traditional cookers home with them, and US firms started manufacturing them.
The same principles apply to kamados and kamado-style cookers. These are wood (charcoal) burners with strong walls for insulation and top and bottom vents. When lit, they need little attention and may burn for 12 hours or more without having to be refilled. Kamados take around 15 minutes to heat up, and food cooks quicker and stays moister on them than a gas or charcoal grill.
A kamado may be left outdoors all year; however, you may wish to cover it in the winter to prevent water from getting into it, and unlike other kinds of grills, the surface of a kamado does not become as hot.
How the Structure of a Kamado Grill helps it Function
Understanding the grill pieces, their purposes, and how they assist the kamado grill cook is beneficial, particularly if you are using one for the first time.
For cooking, the bottom vent is the primary air source, pulling in the oxygen required to keep the fire going. It will take some skill to control the temperature using this, however some versions now have designated vents so you know where to open it. When the vent is fully open, the temperature rises to perfect levels for grilling. If you must smoke, block the bottom vent nearly completely.
Above this, the fire box includes a fire grate where you may place your charcoal and wood. The fire box, like the grate, generally includes some pre-drilled holes to allow for air passage. Ash may also fall through the little holes in the grate.
The ceramic fire ring is placed above the fire, leaving plenty of room between the charcoal and the cooking grate. The grate is normally stainless steel, and as you gain experience with the grill, you may add additional racks, griddles, and so on.
When closed, the lid or dome helps establish a tight seal, not just to keep heat in but also to prevent moisture loss during cooking. The dome is connected to the base by a hinge, which must be checked and tightened on a regular basis to reduce the possibility of the dome loosening and coming off while in use.
Although most kamado grills feature a thermometer on the dome, the temperature it provides might differ from the temperature of the cooking surface, therefore you may want to use another appropriate thermometer inside.
The grill’s top vent enables for precise temperature control.
Starting Up and Damping Down a Kamado Grill
Please be patient! When you first start cooking on a kamado grill, it will take some experience to manage the temperature through vents.
Unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer, the basic method for starting a kamado grill is to put the necessary quantity of charcoal to the firebox and one or two fire starters. When you’ve ignited it, keep the dome (and top vent) and bottom vent open for around 10 minutes. Then shut the dome. As the temperature reaches roughly 50 degrees Fahrenheit, start shutting the top and bottom vents.
After you’re done cooking, shut the bottom vent. When the temperature goes below 400°F, shut the top vent nearly completely. If you wish to cover the grill, wait until the dome is cold enough to touch.
Benefits of Lump Charcoal
A kamado can retain heat effectively and may run unsupervised for 12 hours or more, particularly when using lump charcoal. This burns hotter and for longer than ordinary charcoal, making it excellent for smoking bigger pieces at lower temperatures. Lump charcoal also emits less ash than standard charcoal, allowing for improved air movement.
You may reuse charcoal till it runs out. Just stir the old charcoal to loosen any loose ash, empty the ash pan, and then add some fresh charcoal to the firebox before the next cook.
Smoking with a Kamado
You will need to purchase a smoking stone if your kamado does not come with one. This is just a ceramic insert that goes between the heat and the meat. While some of us like a water pan when smoking, it is important to test the cooker first since adding more water may make it overly moist.
Direct, Indirect or Raised Direct Cooking
Direct cooking is when your meal is placed directly on the grate above the fire. This is great for foods that need minimal cooking time, such as burgers, thin chops, or delicate veggies. An interior heat barrier is used in indirect cooking to deflect the direct heat from the charcoal. This barrier is a heat deflector that permits airflow to continue. It is often constructed of the same material as the kamado. Food cooked using the heat deflector cooks in an atmosphere similar to that of a charcoal-fired oven.
Food should be 8 to 10 inches above the heat for increased direct cooking. This enables meat to cook more slowly, which is ideal for roasts like tri-tip or tenderloin. It may also offer poultry crispy skin without compromising its fluids.
A kamado is also great at low and slow speeds. Cooking joints at 225F may take anywhere from 5 to 15 hours, and you can add wood chips to the charcoal to smolder.
Basic Cooking Temperatures
Smoking temperatures in a kamado range from 225F to 275F, roasting temperatures range from 300F to 450F, baking temperatures range from 300F to 750F, grilling temperatures range from 400F to 600F, and searing temperatures range from 500F to 750F.
Burping your Kamado Grill
When cooking at temperatures exceeding 350°F, always open the dome gently (burp the grill) to avoid flashback. This is especially true when both vents are closed! Just elevate the dome gently and slightly (1 to 2), then lower. Repeat many times before completely raising the dome. Burping it every time you open it is a smart habit for when you’re cooking at higher temps. Using a heatproof glove while opening the grill can also assist avoid hand burns if any flames do escape.
Basic Maintenance Tips
Manufacturers normally provide detailed instructions on how to clean their grills, but here are some general guidelines we hope you find helpful.
After each usage, the ash pan should be cleaned to prevent ash from clogging the air vents and decreasing air flow. After stirring the charcoal so that the ash falls through, open the bottom vent and remove the ash pan or tray, empty it, and replace it on the grill.
Since they collect moisture, kamado grills are susceptible to mold growth. Since it is not safe to use chemical treatments on a grill, the simplest approach to destroy and eliminate the mold is with heat. After inserting all of the attachments, such as grates and heat deflectors, you may ignite the cooker, shut the dome, and leave both air vents open. After it hits 600F, attempt to maintain it there for about 20 minutes. Next shut the bottom vent, wait 15 to 20 minutes, and then close the top vent. Let it to cool before cleaning it with a brush as you would a regular grill.
While kamado grills are self-cleaning, you should still do a thorough cleaning once or twice a year. Heat it up to at least 600F, leave it for 30 minutes, then open the vents and let it to cool. After cold, remove all of the grill’s components, clean the grates and ceramic stones with a gentle brush, and vacuum up any ash residue. The grill may be reassembled and is ready for its next usage.
Conclusion
We hope you found this post useful, whether you are shopping for your first kamado grill or to replace an old one. Whether you choose a kamado-type grill or a typical full ceramic model, we have included some information that should help you determine which is ideal for you, as well as some recommendations on utilizing and getting the most out of your barbecue.
Instead of turning on your kitchen oven and grill to grill, sear, smoke, bake, or even wood-fire your pizza, why not fire up your finest kamado grill and let it do all of the cooking while you and your family enjoy the great outdoors?
FAQs
Is Big Green Egg or Kamado Joe better?
Though the quality of both firms’ grills is roughly the same, the higher practicality of Kamado Joe grills gives them the advantage over BGE, which is why we prefer them.
What is the best time of year to buy a kamado grill?
The optimum time to purchase a gas barbecue or charcoal grill is between the months of September and October. After the Fourth of July, the peak of grilling season, you’ll start seeing offers. Yet, there are still many weeks of pleasant grilling weather ahead, so the greatest deals are yet to come.
Who makes Costco kamado?
Additional information on the Louisiana Grills Costco Kamado Grill*
The two-tiered, 304-grade stainless steel cooking surface, which maximizes heat and space, is ideal for entertaining big people.
How long will a kamado grill last?
Heat Point: Kamados can withstand temperatures of up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit. A conventional backyard gas barbecue barely reaches 500 degrees Fahrenheit, making it more difficult to get the ideal sear on your steaks. Quality: If you’re fortunate, a gas barbecue will last you 10 years. Kamado grills, on the other hand, endure a lifetime.
Who makes the best kamado?
You’ll fall in love with them!
…
Big Joe III, Kamado Joe.
Huge Green Egg 2.2 XLarge.
2.3 Komodo Kamado Ultimate Kamado Grill 23 Inch.
Akorn Kamado Char-Griller 2.4.
Primo Oval Ceramic Grill 2.5″
Slow ‘N Sear Deluxe Kamado Charcoal Grill (2.6).
Kamado Joe Junior scores 2.7.
Weber Summit Kamado S6 Charcoal Grilling Center, 2.8 lbs.
Additional details…•January 3, 2023
What is the best wood to use Kamado Joe?
Thus, today I present you a tutorial to the many sorts of wood you may use to smoke on your Kamado!
Guava… Hickory… Juniper… Maple… Mesquite goes well with pork, chicken, veggies, and cheese. Serve with: beef, lamb, veggies, and oak. Serve with: beef, pork, lamb, and… peaches. Serve with: poultry, fish, pork, and… pecans. Serve with poultry, fish, and cheese.
More to come…
•Dec 7, 2016
Can I leave my Kamado Joe in the winter?
You are free to enjoy your KAMADO. Even if it is pouring or snowing outside, the interior must be kept dry. In cold weather, the water within the grill may freeze, causing ceramic pieces to break.
What is the best fuel for Kamado grill?
To guarantee you’re receiving the greatest quality wood, look for lump charcoal that says “hardwood lump charcoal” or “all-natural.” Lump charcoal is more expensive than briquettes, but it provides an entirely new and one-of-a-kind charcoal grilling experience.
What is the best fuel for kamado bbq?
Hardwood lump charcoal is the most effective solution.
While charcoal briquettes will and may be used, they are not the ideal fuel for your Kamado grill. Charcoal briquettes are formed from wood dust, tiny shards of wood, and filler materials.
Is Kamado Joe made in China?
Kamado Joe is a Chinese-made product. It has surpassed Big Green Egg as the fastest growing brand in the previous 10 years. Monolith Kamado is Europe’s best-selling brand, built in Germany and produced in China.