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5 Best Kamado Joe Grills 2025 in US

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An expert product reviewer known for her comprehensive analysis and in-depth expertise across various categories.
Updated

Main Features

  • Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System
  • Kontrol Tower Top Vent for precise airflow
  • Air Lift Hinge for easy dome lifting
  • AMP FireBox for durability
  • Thick ceramic construction for heat retention

Product Overview

The Kamado Joe Classic II stands out with its thick-walled, heat-resistant ceramic shell that locks in smoke and moisture at any temperature. The Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System transforms the humble grill grate into the most powerful cooking tool in your arsenal, allowing you to cook different foods in different styles at different temperatures—all at the same time.

The Kontrol Tower top vent maintains consistent airflow for precise temperature management, while the Air Lift Hinge significantly reduces dome weight, making it easy to lift with a single finger. The AMP FireBox is designed to eliminate breakage and increase grill efficiency, ensuring years of reliable use.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pitmaster, the Classic II offers the control and flexibility needed to create restaurant-quality meals in your own backyard.

PROS
  • Excellent heat retention
  • Innovative multi-level cooking system
  • Easy to control temperature
  • Durable construction
CONS
  • Heavy and difficult to move
  • Higher price point

Product Specifications

  • Cooking Surface 18 inches diameter
  • Weight 250 lbs
  • Dimensions 46.5 x 28 x 48 inches
  • Material Ceramic
  • Color Red

Main Features

  • 24-inch cooking surface
  • Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System
  • Kontrol Tower Top Vent
  • Air Lift Hinge
  • AMP FireBox

Product Overview

The Big Joe II offers all the innovative features of the Classic II but with a larger 24-inch cooking surface, making it ideal for big families or parties. The Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System allows for simultaneous multi-level cooking, while the Kontrol Tower top vent ensures precise temperature control in any weather.

The Air Lift Hinge makes opening the heavy ceramic dome effortless, and the AMP FireBox increases durability and efficiency. The Big Joe II is designed to handle everything from low-and-slow smoking to high-heat searing, making it a centerpiece for any outdoor kitchen.

Its robust build and thoughtful design make it a long-lasting investment for serious grillers.

PROS
  • Large cooking area
  • Excellent heat and moisture retention
  • Easy to adjust temperature
  • Durable and sturdy
CONS
  • Very heavy
  • Requires significant space

Product Specifications

  • Cooking Surface 24 inches diameter
  • Weight 375 lbs
  • Dimensions 58 x 30 x 50.5 inches
  • Material Ceramic
  • Color Red

Main Features

  • Portable design with stand
  • Thick ceramic construction
  • 13.5-inch cooking surface
  • Top vent for airflow control
  • Easy to clean

Product Overview

Despite its smaller size, the Joe Jr. delivers impressive cooking power and flavor. Its thick ceramic walls retain heat and moisture, ensuring juicy, flavorful results. The grill comes with a sturdy cast iron stand, making it easy to transport and set up wherever you go.

The Joe Jr. features a 13.5-inch cooking surface, which is ample for grilling burgers, steaks, or even a small chicken. The top vent allows for precise temperature control, and the ceramic construction ensures even heat distribution.

Whether you're grilling on the go or looking for a space-saving option, the Joe Jr. is a reliable choice.

PROS
  • Portable and compact
  • Excellent heat retention
  • Easy to transport
  • Great for small spaces
CONS
  • Limited cooking area
  • Heavier than other portable grills

Product Specifications

  • Cooking Surface 13.5 inches diameter
  • Weight 68 lbs
  • Dimensions 19.75 x 20.75 x 27 inches
  • Material Ceramic
  • Color Red

Main Features

  • Includes grill cover, ash tool, and grill gripper
  • Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System
  • Kontrol Tower Top Vent
  • Air Lift Hinge
  • AMP FireBox

Product Overview

The Classic Joe II Bundle features the same high-quality ceramic grill as the standard Classic II, but adds valuable accessories such as a grill cover, ash tool, and grill gripper. The Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System and Kontrol Tower top vent are included, providing precise temperature control and multi-level cooking options.

This bundle is ideal for those who want a complete grilling setup without having to purchase accessories separately. The included cover protects your investment from the elements, while the ash tool and grill gripper make maintenance and handling hot grates safe and easy.

With this bundle, you can enjoy a seamless grilling experience from day one.

PROS
  • Comes with essential accessories
  • Easy to set up
  • Excellent temperature control
  • Durable construction
CONS
  • Higher initial cost
  • Heavy and bulky

Product Specifications

  • Cooking Surface 18 inches diameter
  • Weight 250 lbs
  • Dimensions 46.5 x 28 x 48 inches
  • Material Ceramic
  • Color Red

Main Features

  • Designed for built-in installations
  • Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System
  • Kontrol Tower Top Vent
  • Air Lift Hinge
  • AMP FireBox

Product Overview

Perfect for built-in installations, the Classic II Stand-Alone provides the same thick ceramic construction, Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System, and Kontrol Tower top vent as the carted version. The absence of a cart makes it easier to fit into custom outdoor kitchen islands or barbecue setups.

This model is ideal for homeowners looking to create a seamless, integrated outdoor cooking space. The grill's advanced features ensure precise temperature control and efficient fuel use, while the robust ceramic body guarantees long-lasting performance.

With the Classic II Stand-Alone, you can enjoy premium grilling in a custom setting.

PROS
  • Ideal for custom outdoor kitchens
  • Same features as Classic II
  • Saves space by omitting cart
  • Excellent heat retention
CONS
  • Requires separate installation
  • No mobility without cart

Product Specifications

  • Cooking Surface 18 inches diameter
  • Weight 188 lbs
  • Dimensions 26.4 x 26.4 x 36 inches
  • Material Ceramic
  • Color Red

When searching for the best Kamado Joe grills, it’s important to approach the process with a clear understanding of your needs, preferences, and the unique features that set these ceramic cookers apart. Kamado Joe has earned a reputation for innovation, durability, and exceptional cooking performance, but their lineup includes several models and sizes, each with its own strengths. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the options and make an informed decision.

Begin by considering the size that best fits your lifestyle. Kamado Joe offers grills ranging from the compact Joe Jr., ideal for small patios or tailgating, to the Classic series, which suits most families and backyard gatherings, and the Big Joe, designed for those who frequently entertain large groups. Think about how many people you typically cook for and the space available in your outdoor area. A larger grill provides more cooking surface but also requires more fuel and space.

Next, examine the construction and materials. All Kamado Joe grills are made with thick, high-fire ceramics that retain heat efficiently and maintain steady temperatures for hours. This quality is essential for both low-and-slow smoking and high-temperature searing. Look for features like the Kontrol Tower top vent, which allows for precise airflow management, and the Air Lift hinge, which makes lifting the heavy lid effortless. These innovations not only improve the cooking experience but also contribute to safety and ease of use.

Pay attention to the included accessories and system compatibility. Many Kamado Joe grills come with the Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System, which enables you to cook different foods at various temperatures and heights simultaneously. This system expands your culinary possibilities and maximizes the use of the grill’s interior. Some models also include an ash drawer for simplified cleanup, a sturdy cart with locking wheels, and side shelves for prep space.

Consider the available upgrades and add-ons. Kamado Joe offers a range of accessories, such as the Joetisserie for rotisserie cooking, the DoJoe for pizza making, and various heat deflectors and grates. If you anticipate wanting to experiment with different cooking styles, ensure the model you choose is compatible with these enhancements.

Warranty and customer support are also crucial factors. Kamado Joe provides a limited lifetime warranty on ceramic parts, which speaks to the confidence they have in their product’s durability. Metal components and other parts are covered for shorter periods, so review the warranty details for peace of mind.

Finally, weigh the price against your budget and the features you value most. While Kamado Joe grills are an investment, their longevity and performance often justify the cost. Compare the different models side by side, taking note of what’s included in the package and any additional expenses for accessories you may want.

By carefully evaluating your needs, the grill’s size, construction, included features, and support, you can confidently select the Kamado Joe grill that will best enhance your outdoor cooking experience for years to come.