Kamado grills offer precise heat control, excellent moisture retention, and the ability to perform low-and-slow smoking as well as high-heat searing. This guide compares top models across sizes and brands to help American grillers choose the best Kamado for backyard cooking, camping trips, or small outdoor spaces. Below, you’ll find five standout options with diverse features and cooking areas to fit different needs and budgets.
| Product | Brand | Cooking Area | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Char-Griller AKORN Kamado Grill | Char-Griller | 447 sq in total | Insulated triple-walled body |
| Kamado Joe Classic Joe I | Kamado Joe | 250 sq in | Divide & Conquer system |
| Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series II | Kamado Joe | 250 sq in | Kontrol Tower Top Vent |
| London Sunshine 13” Ceramic Kamado | London Sunshine | 13” cooking area | Waterproof air vent cap |
| London Sunshine 15” Ceramic Kamado | London Sunshine | 15” cooking area | Premium gasket & stainless grates |
Char-Griller AKORN Kamado Charcoal Grill Overview
The Char-Griller AKORN Kamado blends a compact footprint with a large cooking area and robust insulative design. Its triple-walled steel construction helps maintain consistent temperatures, while cast iron grates deliver even heat distribution for searing. A 20 inch main cooking diameter accommodates large meals, and the warming rack adds flexibility for multi-stage cooks. This model is ideal for cooks who want a more traditional kamado experience without the size of a full-scale ceramic unit.
Kamado Joe Classic Joe I Premium 18-inch Overview
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I Premium focuses on modular cooking with the Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System, allowing multi-zone heat management for different recipes simultaneously. The Control Tower Top Vent provides precise airflow control, supporting temperatures from 225°F for smoking to 750°F for searing. Cleaning is made easier by an ash drawer, enabling quick disposal without dismantling interior components. The 18-inch ceramic body combines heat retention with durable construction for long-term performance.
Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series II 18-inch Overview
Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series II expands on the original with a premium cart, locking wheels, and the Divide & Conquer 2-tier system. The Kontrol Tower Top Vent ensures stable air intake, reducing the chance of temperature swings. The patented ash drawer simplifies cleanup, letting you dump ashes without removing internal parts. This model is well-suited for cooks who want a reliable 18-inch ceramic grill with user-friendly maintenance features.
London Sunshine 13-Inch Ceramic Kamado Overview
This portable 13-inch Kamado from London Sunshine emphasizes heat efficiency through a 0.8 inch thick ceramic wall and a tight dome shape. It supports a broad temperature range suitable for smoking, baking, grilling, and broiling. The waterproof top vent helps maintain consistent performance in varying weather, making it a versatile option for travel, camping, or balcony grilling where space is at a premium.
London Sunshine 15-Inch Ceramic Kamado Overview
The 15-inch London Sunshine Kamado offers a larger cooking surface with a robust ceramic wall that emphasizes heat retention and even airflow. It features a premium gasket and durable stainless steel grates with side folds for adding charcoal mid-cook. The design aims to deliver consistent results across smoking, baking, and grilling, making it a strong all-rounder for backyard chefs who want flexibility and durability in a mid-sized Kamado.
Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series II Grill Cover
For ongoing protection, the Kamado Joe cover helps shield the grill from the elements when not in use. Made from durable polyester, it provides full-length coverage and weather resistance, supporting long-term performance and maintenance of heat seals and external components. A good accessory alongside a Kamado grill to extend lifespan and preserve finish.
Kamado Joe Joe Jr 13.5-Inch Portable Overview
The Kamado Joe Joe Jr offers portability with a 13.5-inch ceramic shell and a compact stand. It includes a stainless steel cooking grate and heat deflectors for efficient heat management and moisture retention. The built-in ash tool and robust construction make it suitable for tailgates, picnics, and small patios where space or weight matters.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations And Comparisons
- Cooking capacity: If you frequently cook for groups, prioritize larger diameters (18-20 inches) with multi-cook systems. Smaller tabletop Kamados (13-15 inches) excel for portability but have limited capacity.
- Heat control: Look for top vents, multi-level cooking systems, and heat sealing features. Kontrol Tower or equivalent top vents provide precise airflow management for stable temps.
- Construction materials: Ceramic bodies retain heat well but can be heavier; metal-insulated designs (like Char-Griller AKORN) offer durability and portability with good heat retention, though may require more careful temperature control.
- Ease of cleaning: Ash drawers or removable trays simplify cleanup between cooks. This saves time on maintenance and reduces mess for regular performers.
- Portability vs. stability: Tabletop and portable Kamados suit balconies and trips; freestanding units with carts or stands are better for backyards and frequent use. Consider wheels and lock mechanisms for mobility and safety.
- Weather resilience: Some models include waterproof vents or gasket upgrades to handle rain, humidity, and wind. This is important for outdoor setups with variable weather.
- Access to accessories: Check for compatible warming racks, additional grates, and tool hooks. A well-featured model often expands cooking versatility without extra purchases.
- Maintenance needs: Ceramic Kamados demand careful handling to prevent cracks, while metal-insulated variants may require rust prevention care and periodic seal checks.
- Budget and intended use: If you want authentic kamado flavor and smoking capabilities, prioritize models with multi-zone heat and robust air control. For quick weeknight grilling, a compact or insulated metal model may be more practical.
- Warranty and support: Reputable brands like Kamado Joe offer warranties and replacement parts. Check what is included in the warranty and typical coverage duration.