Select Page

We hope you love the products we recommend. TheGrillinglife.com may earn a commission on qualifying purchases from Amazon Associates or other vendors including for our Best Kamado Grills recommendations. Read more here.

In our best of the best kamado grills review and buyers guide, I will be giving you the Pros, the Cons, and the Facts about the 10 best kamado grills for 2023.

Ceramic grills are the OG of all charcoal grills. They’re reminiscent of a simpler time, cooking over open flames under the stars of a summer night. Eventually, new technology formed in the charcoal grill arena, taking cooking over a fire to a whole new level.

As each new charcoal grill design emerges, it’s good to know that some things, like ceramic kamado grills, are timeless. There’s no need to fix something that isn’t broken, and that’s the case with the classic kamado grill style.

For centuries our ancestors used kamado-style grills for cooking. In fact, the original ceramic grills are thought to have been used up to 3000 years ago in China.

So, if you’re ready to try your hand at grilling on a kamado, you’re in the right place to find the best kamado grill for your outdoor kitchen.

With kamado grills for all experience levels, budgets, and grilling styles, we’ve got you covered with our top 10 picks. We’ll also break down what to look for when shopping for a kamado grill, how to know which is the right one for you, and how brand reputation really does matter when it comes to finding a kamado grill that lasts a lifetime.

I put together this top 10 Best Kamado Grills rating guide to help you choose the best kamado to fit your budget and needs.

Keep reading to get the full lowdown on our favorite kamado grills in 2023.

Quick View of Our Top Picks

Best Overall Kamado Grill

Blaze Cast Aluminum Kamado Grill

Blaze 20-inch Cast Aluminum Kamado Grill

Best High-End Kamado Grill

Kamado Joe Classic III Kamado Grill

Kamado Joe Classic III Ceramic Kamado Grill

Best Mid-Level Kamado Grill

Kamado Joe Classic II Kamado Grill

Kamado Joe Classic II Ceramic Grill

Best Buy Kamado Grill

Primo Large Round Kamado Grill

Primo All-In-One Large Round Ceramic Kamado Grill

Why Buy a Kamado Grill?

Kamado grills combine the ancient Chinese method of ceramic oven cooking with the Japanese venting systems that originated in the mushikamado. Those two fundamental features of kamado grills make them straightforward to use and highly versatile.

Whether you want to slow smoke, grill, or even bake, you can do it all on a kamado grill. That’s because the ceramic gives you strong heat retention and steady, even heat ideal for retaining moisture and absorbing more flavor.

Because of the thick, insulated walls, kamado grills consume less fuel than other charcoal grills and expose your food to less drying air.

A ceramic grill can last for generations and never rust when properly cared for. They’re easy to clean and last the longest without the use of liquid cleaners or lighter fluid.

If you’re looking for a long-lasting grill with plenty of versatility, you’ll get all that and much more from a kamado grill.

Why This Kamado Grill Review Guide Will Be Helpful for You

After reading this guide, consider yourself armed with all the information you’ll need to make an informed decision on your next purchase. Consider this guide as a checklist for all the categories you should take into consideration before buying.

As always, our goal is to save you time and money by doing all the research and testing for you, so you don’t have to.

 

Choosing the perfect kamado grill can be challenging. What should you look for in an excellent kamado grill? How much should you spend? Kamado grills are significant outdoor kitchen investments. But boy, do they excel at their cooking abilities. As you move through our buyer’s guide and read about our 10 best kamado grills for 2022, I’ll try to answer those questions, and several more, in the information below.

Because cooking outdoors on kamado is becoming more common, it helps to pay close attention to the details of each option and comparison shop before you make a final pick.

But with such a large number of kamado grills to choose from, it can still get confusing trying to decide which one best fits your needs, let alone your budget. It all comes down to being informed on the different choices to help you decide which kamado grill is best for you.

That’s where I come in.

There is a broad range in prices depending on features, sizes, and brands. You’ll read about kamado grills starting below $400 up to over $2,000. Using this buyer’s guide, I am confident that you will find everything you’re looking for in a kamado grill for your outdoor living space.

This product overview acts as a buyer’s guide to ten of the best kamado smokers on the market today.

I’ll show you what features to look for and give my choices, backed by many strong experts and user reviews.

Make sure to keep reading after the final review for a buyer’s guide & FAQ section to help you with your decision when it’s time to make your purchase.
 

The Rating Criteria – How We Rate These Kamado Grills

Value | Design & Style | Construction | Innovation | Cooking Versatility | Heat Control | Extra Features & Add-Ons | Customer Support | Warranty & Company Reputation | Real User Feedback & Reviews

We use the below expert rating criteria as we reviewed kamado grills from brands we trust, use, and love.

The main things to keep in mind during your search are the build materials, cooking surface size, heat control, cooking versatility, and wanted extras.

Your mileage may vary, however, so feel free to include any personal bells and whistles and deal-breakers, as well.

The main criteria we took into consideration when reviewing these kamados are:

Value

Value is what you’re looking for when purchasing a grill. You want the best deals but you’re looking for that sweet spot between the amount you spend and the quality you get. The value of a grill is dependent on customer feedback, design, warranty, and performance, versus price.

The bottom line is that grills that we rate as having excellent value offer the best bang for your buck.

Design & Style

Of course, you want your grill to fit in with the rest of your outdoor kitchen—aesthetics matter. Appearance is an important feature when looking for that perfect grill because they’re built to last for generations.

Make sure you’re happy with the overall design before purchasing your kamado grill.

Factors that should influence your decision are the grill’s finish, color options, venting design, and the hardware included.

You’ll learn some essential design elements about these features and more throughout our reviews.

Construction

The quality of construction is a good gauge of how long your grill will last and which parts will need to be replaced first.

Kamado grills last for as long as they are properly maintained. When looking for a grill, especially a Kamado, you should keep in mind the quality and thickness of the ceramic to avoid cracking and ensure heat retention.

When rating our grills, we also look at the hinge assembly, bands, and quality of the air vents.

Innovation & Features

Evaluating innovation is the fun part for me. We take into consideration the extra features of a kamado grill that are put in place to crank up the outdoor cooking and entertainment experience. Any brand that is continuously pushing the envelope with new and exciting features scores high marks.

A high-quality kamado grill is a technological work of craftsmanship, engineering, and design. Many talents and teams collaborate and take every grilling experience as seriously as you do.

To ensure your safety and improve your grilling and entertainment experience, a company that stands behind its grill products uses dedicated prototyping.

The concept of the kamado grill is continuously evaluated and upgraded. In-depth research backs up the grill’s performance, ensuring a lifetime of quality results.

After all, you want efficiency and expect quality. Your barbecue five years from now should taste as delicious as the first day you pulled steaks from that kamado grill.

You’ll experience the durability and performance of a quality kamado grill, knowing it’s been both heat tested for performance and chef tested to ensure excellent results for every type, cut, and size of meat.

Cooking Versatility

We’ve already mentioned the multifaceted cooking style that all Kamados share, but there is a clear difference between what you can cook and how much is possible.

Smaller Kamado grills, because of the minimal cooking area, can limit how much food (or how large the portion) you can cook at once. It would be difficult to cook a stack of ribs or a full roast on a 15-inch grill.

So if you’re looking to host an outdoor barbeque for the neighbors, I recommend a larger grill size. The bigger the grill, the more cooking flexibility you’ll have.

Heat Control

Ceramic is a poor conductor of heat, which is a good thing in this case. This makes it the perfect cooking material to get that nice, charcoal-flavored tenderloin. Of course, branding is important in this regard.

You want a grill with thick ceramic walls for maximum insulation and low amounts of airflow. The thicker the ceramic, the more heat control the grill will have, and ultimately, the higher quality food it will put out.

We take careful note of the quality of the gaskets around the lid and base, ensuring a tight seal. Air vents should also be fully operational and easy to adjust.

Extra Features & Add-Ons

The Kamado grills come with many perks, and when we’re reviewing these high-quality grills, we like to look at the extra features and add-ons each model offers. The more useful items included with the kamado the better.

Kamados are already easy to clean. All you need to do is turn up the heat and dispose of the ashes. Some brands offer an even simpler solution: an ashtray that slides out of the grill.

Customer Support

When you don’t know, where do you go? To the people that do know. Nothing beats fantastic customer support.

From the early stages when you’re shopping for kamado grills, when you’re planning the perfect spot for your new grill and having fun collecting all the accessories and other appliances and add-ons, a knowledgeable, helpful, and accessible customer support team is essential.

In each of our reviews, we spell out different ways to reach the grill company’s support network and how customers have responded to that support.

Warranty & Company Reputation

This brings us to the warranty. A reputable grill manufacturing company that stands behind the quality and durability should offer the best warranty available.

Warranties can range from 1-year to a lifetime. Know your warranty and register your grill with the manufacturer before the first barbecue.

Although it seems arbitrary, it is essential to read the fine print. Ask questions to make sure you know what parts of your grill are covered under warranty. These include the grill grid’s, body and chimneys, and what may be covered under a limited warranty, like the accessories or a rotisserie motor.

Warranty information is included in all of our reviews.

Real User Feedback & Reviews

Who better to tell you, besides us, how a kamado grill performs than the barbecue enthusiast that owns the grill!

While the warranty certainly stands behind the manufacturer’s promises, it’s the real user feedback that puts the proof in the pudding.

Grillers are transparent and tell it straight. If a review says, “best grill ever,” or “the attention to detail on this grill makes it the best value around,” best believe, it’s coming from a user excited to share their opinion. We pass along some nuggets of wisdom, so you are well informed about your kamado grill purchase.

We share the pros and cons of each grill in our reviews and include constructive and helpful user reviews and feedback.

The Top 10 Best Kamado Grills for 2023

Using the above criteria, I’ve compiled a list of the 10 best kamado grills to act as a guide.

The list includes a variety of prices, sizes, shapes, and features. You should always do your own due diligence, however. Don’t be swayed by salespeople and never buy a grill on sight.

On to my picks for 2023!

“Editor’s Choice – Best Overall Kamado Grill”

Editor's Choice

Blaze 20-inch Cast Aluminum Kamado Grill

Get ready for a lifetime of memories and ultimate grill performance with the Blaze Cast Aluminum Kamado Grill. 

The Blaze Cast Aluminum Kamado Grill is made from one-inch-thick solid cast aluminum, which makes it one of the most durable grills out there. 

The heavy-duty, 12-millimeter thick 304 stainless steel cooking grate retains heat and allows for superior temperature control. 

If you’re short on charcoal but have wood or the other way around, it’s not a problem with your Blaze Cast Aluminum Kamado Grill! Due to its non-porous grill body, you can use any type of charcoal, wood, or any ignition method without the worry of it being absorbed into the grill body. 

One grilling challenge has always been adding wood or charcoal mid cook and having to remove the cooking grate to do so, but not anymore! The 18 or optional 20-inch cooking grates are hinged on both sides to add burning material easily. 

Want to cook indirectly? Easy! Adding a drip pan or a heat deflector is also available.

The Blaze Cast Aluminum Kamado Grill comes complete with a large temperature gauge to monitor that heat. This will allow you to monitor smoking, roasting, and searing temperatures. The best part about it is that it’s mounted directly in the lid! 

A great grill needs to be beautifully displayed. The Blaze Cast Aluminum Kamado grill can be used as a stand-alone grill add to your outdoor kitchen, or you can choose between a variety of gorgeous yet functional carts. 

These carts make moving your grill a breeze with high-quality casters. Just unlock your casters, move and lock the casters again! 

The Blaze Cast Aluminum Kamado Grill Also Includes

  • Practically indestructible solid cast aluminum construction
  • Tongue and groove design provides a perfect seal with no heat loss
  • 12-millimeter-thick stainless steel cooking grate helps retain heat and enables you to achieve a delicious sear
  • Lifetime Warranty and customer support
  • Lid hinge with lift assist allows for easy opening

Unlike its competition, this grill does not use a felt gasket lid seal that eventually needs to be replaced. Instead, this innovative grill uses a tongue and groove seal. Bye-bye felt gasket and hello consistent heat!

Blaze Cast Aluminum Kamado Grill Accessories & Upgrades

  • Deluxe cart with cabinet, shelves, and hooks keep supplies conveniently located and tidy
  • Rotisserie accessory with a separate charcoal basket

Customize your cast aluminum grill with signature accessories and grill master upgrades.

Blaze Cast Aluminum Kamado Grill PROs & CONs

The pros far outweigh the cons, in our opinion. If you’re in the market for a new kamado grill, make sure you check this one out!

PROs

Heavy-duty, 12-millimeter thick 304 stainless steel cooking grate retains heat and allows for superior temperature control

20 and 18-inch cooking grate (included) is hinged on both sides to easily add burning material

Non-porous grill body allows you to use any type of charcoal, wood, or any ignition method without the worry of it being absorbed into the grill body

Built in tongue and groove gasket seal that never needs to be replaced

Excellent warranty

CONS

At 249 pounds, the Blaze Cast Aluminum Kamado Grill is a bit heavy if you choose not to purchase the accompanying cart

Blaze Cast Aluminum Kamado Grill Customer Support & Warranty Information

Customer Support – Customer support is available Monday through Friday or anytime via email.

Warranty – Blaze kamado grills have a lifetime warranty that warrants against any defects in the manufacturing and workmanship on the cast aluminum body, stainless steel cooking grids, hinge and all other parts. Register your product within 30 days of purchase to validate the warranty and maintain your original receipt to get parts for the appliance.

“Editor’s Choice – Best High-End Kamado Grill”

Kamado Joe Classic III Ceramic Kamado Grill

Model # KJ15040921 Classic 18-inch | Model # BJ24RHCI Big Joe 24-inch

Editor's Choice

Kamado Joe Classic III 18 Inch Ceramic Kamado Grill

Kamado Joe, the name you’ve come to know and respect, now introduces its third generation and its most advanced ceramic charcoal grill yet, the Classic III. 

Its 18-inches of cooking surface is constructed to the highest level, with thick walls and a heat-resistant ceramic shell. 

This premium construction delivers ultimate moisture while grilling and helps lock in smoke. With the Kamado Joe Classic III, your grilling will be limited to your imagination. 

Enjoy the patented “Divide & Conquer” flexible cooking system, which transforms your ordinary, plain grill grate into an absolute champion of a cooking tool. 

Its multi-level, half-rack design allows you to simultaneously cook different foods at different temperatures! This innovative design gives you up to 510 square inches of cooking surface. 

Giving your food the right amount of smoke and heat just got easier. Introducing the revolutionary SlōRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber. This Harvard-developed inset distributes smoke and heat evenly surrounding your food with precisely what it needs. 

Be ready for a flavor explosion! You’re in control with your Kamado Joe Classic III, and the Kontrol Tower Top Vent keeps you there. This powder-coated cast aluminum vent helps you to adjust temps with precision. 

As with any ceramic grill, the lid tends to be heavier. So to assist you with opening and closing your grill, the Air Lift Hinge dramatically reduces the lid’s weight. 

Want to move your Kamado Joe Classic III to catch that gorgeous sunset? Simply roll it! The galvanized steel premium cart grill cart allows you to do it with ease.

The Kamado Joe Classic III Ceramic Grill Also Includes

The Kamado Joe Classic III Ceramic Grill gives you complete control with these one-of-a-kind features.

  • Powder-coated aluminum side shelves
  • 304 stainless steel latch and firebox ring
  • Two half-moon cooking grids and two half-moon heat deflectors

The addition of 304 stainless steel latches and a firebox ring instead of a cheaper metal is a great touch. The half-moon cooking grids and heat deflectors make adding charcoal and two-zone cooking a cinch!

Kamado Joe Classic III Accessories & Upgrades

If you want to get the most out of your Kamado Joe grill, you’ll want to consider these upgrades and recommended accessories.

  • Cast aluminum JoeTisserie boosts your Kamado Joe Classic III into a self-basting rotisserie which makes any meat smokier and juicier
  • iKamand smart grill feature allows you to automatically control heat and smoke and target the temperature of your Classic III with the Kamado Joe app.
  • DōJoe transforms your Classic III into a great pizza oven. Perfect for beginners or pizza chefs alike, the DōJoe allows effortless heat management for that perfect, crispy crust pizza.

I’m a big fan of both the JoeTisserie and DōJoe pizza oven accessories for adding more versatility to an already versatile cooker.

Kamado Joe Classic III PROs & CONs

Kamado Joe’s classic designs combined with innovative features never disappoint. And while it is hard to find any legitimate Cons for the Kamado Joe III, we decided to nit pic with our choice below.

PROs

Excellent grill design holds in heat and moisture and simplifies temperature control

You can grill, smoke, bake and so much more with this versatile grill

Easily deliver smoke-infused flavor to your meal using natural lump charcoal

More useful accessories come standard than most all other grills

Excellent warranty

CONS

Kontrol Tower Vent has had a few instances of paint chipping after a few uses

Kamado Joe Classic III Customer Support & Warranty Information

Customer Support – You can reach out to Kamado Joe any time by filling out their online customer support request form or by Facebook Messenger.

Warranty – The Kamado Joe Classic III comes with a limited lifetime warranty on ceramic parts, a 5-year warranty on metal parts, a 3-year warranty on electronic components, and a 2-year warranty on miscellaneous components and standalone accessories.

“Editor’s Choice – Best Mid-Level Kamado Grill”

Editor's Choice

Kamado Joe Classic II Ceramic Grill

The Kamado Joe Classic II is an 18-inch all-in-one grill, oven, and smoker that can have your food ready in as little as fifteen minutes. 

This ceramic grill allows you to cook at two different levels simultaneously using the Divide and Conquer flexible cooking system. You can also use two split heat deflectors for baking or cooking indirectly. 

The Kontrol Tower top vent and dome lid gives you precise control over temperature. The rust-resistant cast aluminum top vent stays in position even as the lid is opened and closed. 

The dome lid offers a double-walled, wire mesh fiberglass gasket for a tight seal for holding in all the heat, while the rest of the grill is made of 1 ¼ inch ceramic to further maintain temperature. 

Holding in temperature is only one advantage of a good seal on a grill. It also keeps moisture locked into your meat to avoid dried-out meals. 

There is plenty of cooking space with 254 square inches of 304 stainless steel cooking grates so that you can handle any size crowd. 

Cleanup is easy with a slide-out ash draw and powder-coated cast iron fire grates. 

The Kamado Joe Classic II comes on a cart but could be used as a stand-alone grill or built into a counter space.

The Kamado Joe Classic II Ceramic Grill Also Includes

There’s a reason the Kamado Joe Classic II is one of the most popular ceramic grills on the market. Its diverse cooking abilities and quality materials are only the beginning.

Other features include: 

  • Cast iron cart and locking wheels
  • Air-lift hinges that allow you to open the grill with a single finger
  • Mold and water-resistant Kontrol Tower Top Vent
  • Diverse temperature range from 225 to 750 degrees Farienheight
  • Advanced Multi-Panel FireBox (AMP) to increase efficiency and eliminate breakage.
  • Two-tier divided and conquer cooking system
  • Built-in rotisserie feature

More useful accessories come standard with the Kamado Joe than any other grill on this list.

Kamado Joe Classic II Accessories & Upgrades

Your kamado grill is only as good as your upgrades, and Kamado Joe knows how to accessorize best.

  • Kamado Joe grill cover to keep your grill in tip-top shape for years to come
  • Kamado Joe Pizza Stone to turn your grill into an outdoor pizza oven
  • Casket and smoke top

These are just a few awesome upgrades you can purchase for this grill.

Kamado Joe Classic II PROs & CONs

Kamado Joe’s classic, well-built designs combined with innovative features never disappoint.

PROs

Wide temperature range

You can grill, smoke, bake and so much more with this versatile grill

Built with long-lasting materials

More useful accessories come standard than most all other grills

Excellent warranty

CONS

Pizza oven feature requires a learning curve

Hood thermometer doesn’t reflect food temperature

Kamado Joe Classic II Customer Support & Warranty Information

Customer Support – You can contact Kamado Joe at any time via their online form. If you do not receive a confirmation email, they suggest reaching out any time on Facebook Messenger.

Warranty – Once your grill is registered, it is protected against any defects in material or workmanship for as long as you are the original owner. Metal and cast iron pieces are under warranty for five years, while electronic components come with a three-year warranty.

All other components such as the thermometer, gaskets, and iKamand controllers come with a two-year warranty. These warranties only cover personal use and not commercial use.

“Editor’s Choice – Best Buy Kamado Grill”

Primo All-In-One Large Round Ceramic Kamado Grill

Best Buy

Primo All In One Large Round Ceramic Kamado Grill

This grill stands out to us because it’s made in the United States and features a cast aluminum top vent, easy-to-clean porcelain-coated cooking greats, and is coated in lead-free, scratch-resistant porcelain glaze.  

The Primo All-In-One Large Round grill is excellent for all kinds of charcoal cooking. It has 280 square inches of cooking surface, making it one of the bigger options on our list. 

You can use this grill on its own or upgrade to a signature cart or table for further mobility and style.

The Primo All-In-One Ceramic Kamado Grill Also Includes

The Primo All-In-One Ceramic Kamado Grill includes several features that make it stand out from your typical kamado grill. Some of these include:

  • The highest sitting lid available for cooking whole chickens and turkeys
  • Six-position cast aluminum chimney cap
  • Five-position stainless steel lower vent door
  • Easy lift-and-lock hinge system

These standard add-ons make the Primo All-In-One a great value for your money.

Primo All-In-One Accessories & Upgrades

The Primo All-In-One is just as it sounds. Everything you need is there and ready when you need it. Some accessories included or available for upgrade are:

  • Cradle
  • Grid lifter
  • Side shelves
  • Four easy-roll wheels, two with locks.
  • Griddle
  • Grill cover
  • Pizza stone
  • Upgraded Cyprus grill table

Although adding any of these upgrade options will increase the overall price point, you don’t have to get them all at once.

Primo All-In-One PROs & CONs

Primo All-In-One is a great place to start your grilling journey because it comes with everything you need.

PROs

Stainless steel draft door

Accurate thermometer

Superior heat, moisture, and flavor retention thanks to premium-grade ceramic

High sitting lid

Temperature range of 180 to over 500 degrees Fahrenheit

CONS

Basic configurations compared to competitors

Upgrades available but add to cost

Primo All-In-One Customer Support & Warranty Information

Customer Support – Primo Ceramic Grills can be contacted by phone, email, or online form.

Warranty – Ceramic parts and burners come with a lifetime warranty as long as you register your grill. All mental parts have a five-year warranty, while cast iron, valves and knobs, and other accessories come with a one-year warranty. Felt gaskets and thermometers can be replaced up to 30 days after purchase.

“Runner Up – Best High-End Kamado Grill”

Top Pick

Primo Oval Large 300 Ceramic Kamado Grill

The Primo Oval ceramic kamado grill is made of premium-grade ceramic that retains superior heat, moisture, and flavor.

The unique oval shape allows you to cook on direct and indirect heat simultaneously.

You get 300 square inches of cooking surface in the large size and 400 square inches in the extra-large model, so you’ll have plenty of space to grill up the goods no matter how hungry your crowd is.

As with all Primo grills, you can choose between cart, cradle, or table configurations. Additionally, Primo offers an all-in-one package that includes a cradle stand, side tables, grill head, handle, grate lifter, and ash tool.

The Primo Oval Ceramic Kamado Grill Also Includes

Grill, bake, roast, or smoke with the Primo Oval grill, thanks to its wide temperature range starting at 180 degrees for smoking all the way up to 500 degrees for that crispy, mouthwatering sear. Additional features include:

  • Lift-and-lock hinge system for effortless opening and closing
  • Soft-close felt gastric to protect the ceramic
  • Chimney cap with a hood so you can grill no matter the weather
  • Easy-to-read built-in thermometer

It’s accessories like these that make the Primo one of the top choices on my list.

Primo Oval Accessories & Upgrades

The Primo Oval has plenty of accessories and upgrades to choose from, so you can customize your grilling experience from the start. Some include:

  • Steel cart with side shelves and a wire basket for storage
  • Compact cypress grill table
  • Grill cover
  • Pizza stone
  • Cast iron griddle
  • Firebox divider
  • All-in-one starter kit

I especially recommend the firebox divider and all-in-one starter kit.

Primo Oval Grill PROs & CONs

Overall, the Primo Oval Grill gets the job done famously and is a great starting place for new grill enthusiasts.

PROs

Cooking grates are easy to clean and reversible

High sitting lid for extra-large cuts of meat or whole chickens

Ceramic protected with a lead-free, scratch-resistant porcelain glaze

Ergonomic, cool-touch handle

CONS

Upgrades and accessories are costly

This is a very heavy grill

Primo Oval Customer Support & Warranty Information

Customer Support – Customer support is available by filling out the online contact form. Primo’s website also has a phone number and email address listed if you prefer to contact them directly.

Warranty – All ceramic parts and burners have a lifetime warranty. Metal, cast iron, knobs and valves, and other accessories are under a limited warranty of three to five years. Thermometers and felt gaskets come with a 30-day limited warranty.

“2nd Runner Up – Best High-End Kamado Grill”

Big Green Egg Ceramic Kamado Grill

Top Pick

Large Big Green Egg

The Big Green Egg remains one of the most well-known and popular ceramic kamado grill options. It’s versatile, simple to use, and is one of the highest quality grills on the market.

This 18-inch grill is ideal for large cookouts as it can cook up to eight steaks at a time but is also versatile enough to roast, smoke, and bake as well.

You can purchase the Big Green Egg alone and add it to your own grill table or build it into your outdoor kitchen. There is also the option to purchase the EGG Nest. The Nest is a convenient grill cart that is designed specifically for your Big Green Egg making it portable and setting it at the perfect cooking height.

The Big Green Egg Ceramic Kamado Grill Also Includes

The Big Green Egg features a classic kamado grill design without complicated bells and whistles. What you see is what you get. Things we especially appreciate about the Big Green Egg include:

  • Quick prep time
  • Bottom to top airflow
  • Ample heat retention

No bells and whistles here, but what you do get is excellent performance.

Big Green Egg Accessories & Upgrades

While the design is basic, you can always upgrade your Egg with the following accessories:

  • ConvEGGtor®
  • Large intEGGrated Nest+Handler
  • Modular Nest System
  • 49-inch Custom Cooking Island
  • Large EGGspander
  • rEGGulator
  • Instant Read Thermometer

The BGE brand is well known and provides accessories galore. Keep in mind, you will pay a little extra for the Big Green Egg name on the products, but they are built from quality materials and made to last.

Big Green Egg PROs & CONs

You can’t go wrong with the classic Big Green Egg when it comes to kamado grills that are both simple to use yet versatile.

PROs

Long-lasting

Great for large cookouts

Straight-forward setup

Easy to adjust vents for temperature precision

CONS

Gasket needs replacing every few years

Slight learning curve is required for accurate temperature adjustment

Big Green Egg Customer Support & Warranty Information

Customer Support – Customer support is easy to reach with their online contact form. You can also call for any questions about their products, replacements, or warranty policies with the phone number listed on their website.

Warranty – Depending on the material, parts on the Big Green Egg are covered anywhere from one to three years. Keep in mind that the warranty changes if you use your grill for commercial use rather than residential.

“Runner Up – Best Mid-Level Kamado Grill”

Vision Elite Series Deluxe Kamado Grill

Model # XD-702WC Maxis 22-inch | Model # XR-402WC Deluxe 20-inch

Top Pick

Vision Elite Series- XR402 Deluxe 20 Inch Kamado Grill

The heavy-duty ceramic Vision Elite is one of the largest on the market, with 604 square inches of cooking space. 

The cast iron and stainless-steel cooking grates include easy-to-lift handles for quick clean-up and effortless adjustments. 

Vision Elite Series Deluxe comes with a heavy gauge storage cart with three-inch caster wheels, two of which are locking. The Cart also includes a holster for the electric starter and felt-lined storage racks for your cooking grates and lava stone.

The Vision Elite Series Deluxe Also Includes

The Vision Elite kamado grill comes with plenty of extra features unique from other kamado grills, including:

  • Calibrated color-coded top vent with dedicated smoker knob
  • Two-tiered cooking grates
  • Optional gas insert
  • Easy-to-read thermometer that reads up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Flexible LED grill light
  • Electric starter
  • Removable ash drawer for easy cleanup

These unique included features are one of the things that make the Vision Elite Kamado stand out from the crowd.

Vision Elite Series Deluxe Accessories & Upgrades

The Vision Elite Series Deluxe has more accessories and upgrades available than most kamado grills. We’re most impressed with:

  • Color customization
  • 26,500 BTU QuickchangeTM gas insert
  • Thermoplastic drop-down side shelves with hooks
  • Cape style cover with velcro
  • Lava stone
  • Heat deflector

There are more useful accessories to choose from but this is a good starting point.

Vision Elite Series Deluxe PROs & CONs

With all the available accessories both included and available after purchase, Vision Elite Series Deluxe gives you complete control over how you cook.

With so many upgrades and accessories available, you can customize your cook and keep your guests coming back for more.

PROs

Many accessories, including the cart, are included

Easy to convert to propane fuel type if desired

Locking latch and high-temperature gasket for a tighter seal

Electric starter

CONS

Heavy

Ash drawer isn’t sealed, resulting in heat leaking

Vision Elite Series Deluxe Customer Support & Warranty Information

Customer Support – Vision Grills can be contacted through their online form, email, or phone. They promise to respond between 24 and 48 hours.

Warranty – Ceramic parts come with a limited lifetime warranty on Vision grills. Metal parts are under warranty for five years, and thermoplastic shelves and handles are covered for three years. Other components can be replaced up to 90 days after purchase.

“Runner Up – Best Buy Kamado Grill"

Coyote Asado Ceramic Kamado Grill

Model # C1CHCS-FS Freestanding | Model # C1CHCS Built-in

Best Buy

Coyote Asado Ceramic Kamado Grill

The Coyote Asado grill is perfect for any outdoor kitchen thanks to its luxury design, high durability, and simple construction for easy setup.

These grills are made from heat-resistant ceramic and solid concrete panels to ensure a long life.

You get 254 square inches of cooking area, adjustable vents for precision temperature control, and the ability to grill, bake, smoke, and sear.

The Coyote Asado grill also comes with a cart with built-in shelves, so you can spend less time shopping for the perfect setup and more time cooking!

The Coyote Asado Ceramic Kamado Grill Also Includes

There’s much more this grill has to offer, including:

  • Standard Coyote Signature Smoking Grate made of 304 stainless steel  for rust-free precision heat diffusion
  • A marinating tool for chicken and turkey
  • A heat deflector for even heat distribution across grids
  • Seamless grill edges thanks to continuous welds
  • 254 square inches of cooking space
  • Double-walled, stainless-steel hood

With included accessories like those above, it’s no wonder the Coyote Asado is on our list.

Coyote Asado Accessories & Upgrades

Having a wide variety of available upgrades and accessories means you can take your grill skills to the next level. Here are just a few that the Coyote Asado has to offer: 

  • Custom-made cover
  • Grate gripper for lifting pizza stones and cooking grids
  • Pizza stone for pizzas and bread
  • Beer can holder
  • Heat deflector

I always recommend a heat deflector but who wouldn’t want a pizza stone too?

Coyote Asado PROs & CONs

Coyote Asado grills are worth considering for any outdoor kitchen enthusiast.

PROs

Included ash tool

Integrated thermometer

Independent burner ignition system

Requires less fire tending than traditional smokers

Easy mobility and storage options with an included stainless-steel cart

CONS

Assembly required

Smaller than other many of our other kamado options

Coyote Asado Customer Support & Warranty Information

Customer Support – You can contact customer service using their online contact form, email, or telephone during their business hours Monday through Friday.

Warranty – The Coyote Asado is under warranty as long as you are the original owner and still have proof of purchase. It covers residential use but not normal wear and tear, such as corrosion, burn discoloration, or scratches.

Stainless steel burners and frames have a limited lifetime warranty. Cooking grids come with a five-year warranty, while the heat control grid and plastic or electric components are covered for two years. Ignition systems and valves have a one-year limited warranty.

Weber Summit 24 Inch Kamado S6 Charcoal Grill

If you’re looking to feed a crowd, the Weber Summit kamado grill is an excellent place to start. With over 452 square inches of cooking space on this 24-inch grill, you’re only limited by your imagination with what you can do with this grill. 

The double-walled bowl and lid are a signature feature trapping air and retaining heat for up to 12 hours on one load of charcoal. 

Move this heavy grill with ease thanks to the included heavy-duty steel cart with lockable wheels and plenty of storage space for your grill accessories.

The Weber Summit Kamado Grill Also Includes

There is no shortage of signature features offered by the Webber Summit kamado. Here are the ones that stand out the most: 

  • Air-insulated design
  • Stainless steel diffuser plate for indirect, low, and slow cooking
  • Two-position charcoal grate adjustable for searing and smoking 
  • High capacity aluminum ash catcher
  • Steel construction with porcelain enamel finish
  • Rapidfire lid damper

The Weber brand is one we all know and can trust so you can bank on the fact that you get quality with every purchase.

Weber Summit Accessories & Upgrades

Make your grilling experience easier and more convenient with these signature Weber Summit accessories:

  • Char-baskets
  • Premium grill cover
  • Weber Connect Smart Grilling Hub thermometer
  • Pizza stone attachment
  • Wok attachment

There so many useful accessories available for Weber grills that it is impossible to name them all. But we are intrigued by the Wok attachment. Do you have any favorites to share? Leave us a comment below.

Weber Summit PROs & CONs

The Weber Summit kamado grill is at par with other Weber grills and is the perfect addition if entertaining large groups is your forte.

PROs

Responds to temperature adjustments faster than ceramic grills

Extra-large cooking space

Versatile cooking options thanks to the replaceable, hinged cooking grate

One-Touch cleaning system for effortless cleanup

Easy-open lid hinge

CONS

Too large if cooking for one or two

Air vents clog easily and need to be cleaned often

Weber Summit Customer Support & Warranty Information

Customer Support – Weber offers a virtual chat option on their website for customer support. You can find their email and phone number with a quick search online, but you won’t find them listed on their website.

Warranty – Warranties vary depending on the model of the Weber grill. For the Webber Summit, you can expect ten years for the bowl, lid, and center ring, five years for the One-Touch cleaning system and plastic components, and two years for all remaining parts. Just be sure to register your grill upon purchase to ensure that it’s covered by the warranties.

“Best Value Kamado Grill for Beginners"

Best Buy

Char Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill

The Char-Griller Akorn is ideal for beginners. It gives you the chance to practice kamado-style grilling without the kamado price tag. It’s fuel-efficient, has a wide temperature range, and is built to last. 

The 20-inch cooking diameter gives you 314 square inches of primary cooking area and 447 inches of total cooking area, fitting up to 27 burgers at once.

The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill Also Includes

As if the price point wasn’t enough, the Char-Griller Akorn has several additional features ideal for jumping into kamado cooking for the first time, including: 

  • Large 8-inch locking caster wheels
  • Cast iron cooking grates
  • Removable warming rack
  • Triple wall steel insulation
  • Folding side shelves
  • Storage hooks
  • Bottom storage shelf
  • Locking lid

The included features give you a lot of value at this price point.

Char-Griller Akorn Accessories & Upgrades

The affordable price of the Akorn means more wiggle room for accessories and upgrades. Here are some of the top-selling Char-griller Akorn accessories:

  • Charcoal chimney
  • Smokin’ stone/heat deflector
  • Adjustable grate
  • Pizza stone
  • Turkey roaster
  • Wok

While there are many more to choose from, these are some of the most useful.

Char-Griller Akorn PROs & CONs

While the Char-Griller Akorn won’t be the longest-lasting kamado grill, it’s definitely the most affordable and easy to move to make it the ideal pick if you have a tight budget or are trying out kamado cooking for the first time.

PROs

Affordable price

Use to grill, smoke, bake, and sauté

Even temperature

Fuel efficient

Easy ash cleanup

Lightweight for easy mobility

CONS

Lower build quality

Steel is prone to rust over time

Char-Griller Akorn Customer Support & Warranty Information

Customer Support – You can chat with customer service on their website with instant messaging during work hours or email them directly at any time.

Warranty – The grill hood and bottom are under warranty for five years against rust or burn through as long as the damage is not caused by misuse or the environment. Under the same stipulations, the ash pan, and other parts are under warranty for the first year.

Kamado Grill Buyers Guide – What to Look For in a Kamado

Quality Build | Performance | Hood-Lift Assist for Kamados | Upgrades & Features | Price Considerations | Brand Recognition & Reputation

Any big purchase requires care and comparison. Because kamado grills tend to be more expensive and slightly more complex than their standard charcoal counterparts, you shouldn’t rush to buy the first grill you see.

Comparison shop, research different models and pay attention to the following checklist as you pick out the exact kamado cooker that you want to showcase on your patio or in your yard.

For a more in-depth kamado grill buyers guide that includes everything you need to know to help you purchase the right kamado for you, read my article: The Ultimate Kamado Grill Buyers Guide

If you don’t have time to read my complete buyers guide, below we provide enough advice to get you going.

Quality Build

Kamado grills are reliant on the quality of the ceramic. Since Kamados depend on the ceramic walls to provide strong insulation and restricted airflow, we grade these grills based on the quality and thickness of the material. These grills are built to last a lifetime, so avoid brands with a short warranty or weak cart constructions.

Performance

Kamados are the ultimate all-in-one grill, and therefore, they should produce and hold a wide range of temperatures. Kamados should produce the best foods with the least effort to adjust to the perfect temperature.

Hood-Lift Assist for Kamados

There’s no getting around it; kamado lids are heavy. Whether you get a stainless-steel cart, cast iron, or the classic ceramic grill, it could make grilling arduous for those of us not accustomed to the gym.

A hood-lift assist is the standard when looking for that new grill.

Upgrades & Features – Know Which Ones Are Most Important to You

Each brand of kamado grill comes with extra features or upgrades available. Unfortunately, you might not be able to have it all, so make a list of what is most important to you.

Carts, dividers, heat reflectors, and pizza stones are among the more popular accessories usually available with most brands.

Other features that might be important to you could include hood-lift assist, rust-resistant chimney, and vent hoods for built-in configurations.

Price Considerations

Kamado grills may be expensive, but they can easily make up for it with their multifaceted cooking and durability.

Imagine a grill that will cook any meal plan, giving classic charcoal flavoring to your food. One that you won’t need to replace every ten years but will last you a lifetime of delicious cooking.

Pricing for Kamados can range anywhere from $200 to $2000, and the more you spend on a grill, the longer it will last. With that in mind, let us consider some key brands.

Brand Recognition & Reputation

When looking for the perfect grill, you’ll want to choose one from a brand you trust. Yes, they may be more expensive, but these reputable grills will make up for it with longer-lasting grills and quality materials.

Reputable brands we recommend:

  • Kamado Joe
  • Blaze
  • Big Green Egg
  • Primo
  • Vision
  • Coyote
  • Victory

These are all brands we love, use, and trust.

Kamado Grills Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Kamado Grills Last? | Can You Use Regular Charcoal in a Kamado Grill? | Do You Have to Season a Kamado Grill? | Can You Use a Kamado Grill in the Rain? | Can You Smoke on a Kamado Grill?

If you still have questions, we’re here to help. Our goal is to arm you with enough information to not only buy the best kamado grill but also to provide you with everything you need to know to be successful in using and maintaining your kamado for years to come.

If you don’t know much about kamado grills but are in the market for one to add to your outdoor kitchen, we’ve got you covered!

Below we provide answers to a few frequently asked kamado grill questions to get you started. For a much more comprehensive kamado grill frequently asked questions and answer guide, check out my article: The Ultimate Kamado Grill FAQ

Be sure to check back on this guide, as we often add questions and update the answers with new articles!

Let’s dive into a few kamado grill FAQs!

How Long Do Kamado Grills Last?

Kamado grills can last a lifetime when they’re maintained properly. That’s because they’re made with quality craftsmanship with sturdy materials making them nearly indestructible. As a result, you’ll save money in the long run. Cleaning them after each use and avoiding liquid cleaners or lighter fluid increases their longevity.

Can You Use Regular Charcoal in a Kamado Grill?

No, in most cases, you cannot use regular charcoal in a ceramic kamado grill. We recommend hardwood lump charcoal over briquette charcoal any day.

Briquette charcoal many times contains chemical additives that could damage your grills and make your food taste terrible.

On the other hand, Lump charcoal produces less ash and will heat your food to perfection.

Do You Have to Season a Kamado Grill?

You don’t have to season your new kamado grill. The first time you use it, we recommend taking it straight out of the box and testing out all the perks that come with every Kamado.

Can You Use a Kamado Grill in the Rain?

Yes, you can use your kamado grill in the rain. Kamado grills work just as well in the rain as they do on a nice, sunny day. However, you should cover your grill to protect it against sun and rain when not in use.

Can You Smoke on a Kamado Grill?

Yes, you can smoke on a kamado grill. In fact, you can smoke, roast, bake, and pretty much do anything you want on these versatile grills.

If you want to smoke some pork butts, cover the charcoal with a metal or ceramic plate or another type of heat deflector, then put the grates on top.

Final Thoughts on Our Best Kamado Grills For 2023 Reviews & Buyers Guide

Ceramic grills are a timeless tool that has been around for generations. Our fathers used them, their fathers used them, and so on for nearly 3000 years. Our ancestors knew how to make a great meal, and so can you.

Kamado grills have dominated the market regarding ceramic grilling. Kamados are capable of virtually every sort of outdoor cooking plan; they can bake, smoke, roast, barbecue, and, of course, grill.

Kamados are fuel-efficient and designed to cook for long hours on as little charcoal as possible. They are capable of extreme heat levels and will hold that temperature until you’ve achieved the perfect cooking level. These grills will ensure your food retains the maximum amount of moisture possible.

Your guests will be raving at your next barbeque or family dinner while they enjoy the perfect, charcoal-flavored food that you pull out of your nearly perfect grill.

These grills are an excellent investment, and by now, you should be well acquainted with all the nuances of buying your first Kamado.

Just remember to take into consideration your budget, add-ons available, and the reputation of the brand before you take that first step to a grill that will last you a lifetime!

Next Steps:

13 Awesome Benefits of Kamado Grills

13 Benefits of Kamado Grills

The Ultimate Kamado Grill FAQ

The Ultimate Kamado Grill FAQ

The Ultimate Kamado Grill Buyers Guide

The Kamado Grill Buyers Guide

Now It’s Your Turn

I want to hear from you:

Which brand of gas grill have you used before?

Have you used any of the gas grill brands listed above and have any feedback to share?

What features do you typically like to see in a built-in grill?

Are you going to be purchasing a new grill in the future? Do you plan on looking at a Pellet Grill, Smoker, Built-In Gas Grill, or Charcoal Model?

Let me know by leaving a quick comment below.

If you still have questions, please feel free to send me a message.

Cheers,

Patrick

Disclosure – At The Grilling Life, I am committed to researching and writing thoughtful, informative and editorially independent reviews of the best products for your outdoor cooking needs.  If you like what I do, you can support me through my chosen links, which earn me a commission.  This allows me to continue sharing with you my love for all things barbecue.  Your support is truly appreciated.

Patrick Ginise

A backyard warrior, certified carnivore, lover of good whiskey, self-proclaimed grill master and I’m Living The Grilling Life!

I have a passion for cooking with live fire and smoke, no matter the weather. I’m a real person just like you, who loves outdoor cooking and BBQ. Food, fun, and time spent with family and friends are what it’s all about! It is my mission to take my passion and knowledge for outdoor cooking and all things BBQ and share this expertise in techniques and grilling equipment with you. In other words, Living The Grilling Life!