Finding the right ceramic grill can feel overwhelming when you’re staring at a wall of kamado options at your local store. I’ve spent countless hours researching and comparing these distinctive egg-shaped cookers, and the best Kamado Joe grills consistently stand out for their innovative features, exceptional temperature control, and overall cooking performance.
Kamado Joe has carved out a serious reputation in the outdoor cooking world by packing their grills with unique technologies you won’t find anywhere else. From the Divide and Conquer flexible cooking system to the revolutionary SloRoller smoke chamber, these grills offer versatility that goes far beyond basic charcoal cooking.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through all eight current Kamado Joe models so you can find the perfect fit for your backyard setup, cooking style, and budget. Whether you’re a weekend griller or a dedicated smoking enthusiast, there’s a Kamado Joe that’ll match your needs.
Top 3 Picks for the Best Kamado Joe Grills (September 2026)
Best Kamado Joe Grills in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
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 Kamado Joe Joe Jr 13.5-inch |
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| Kamado Joe Classic Joe I 18-inch |
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| Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-inch |
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 Kamado Joe Classic Joe III 18-inch |
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 Kamado Joe Big Joe I 24-inch |
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 Big Joe II 24-inch |
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 Joe Jr 3-Piece Bundle |
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1. Kamado Joe Joe Jr 13.5-inch Portable Ceramic Charcoal Grill – Best Budget Pick
Kamado Joe Joe Jr 13.5-inch Portable Ceramic Charcoal Grill with Grill Stand, Stainless Steel Cooking Grate, Heat Deflectors and Ash Tool in Red, Model KJ13RH
13.5-inch Ceramic Grill
150 sq in Cooking Area
75.6 lbs
Portable Design
Pros
- Excellent fuel efficiency
- Superior temperature control
- Compact and portable
- Easy ash cleanup
- Lifetime warranty on ceramics
Cons
- Limited cooking space for large groups
- Heavy for a portable
- Ceramic requires careful handling
I’ve recommended the Joe Jr countless times to people with small patios, apartment balconies, or anyone who wants authentic kamado cooking without committing to a full-size unit. This little powerhouse delivers genuine ceramic grill performance in a package you can actually move around.
The thick-walled ceramic construction locks in smoke and moisture like its bigger siblings. You get that same intense charcoal flavor and impressive temperature control, just on a smaller scale. I’ve seen owners use this thing two or three times a week because it’s so convenient to fire up for quick dinners.
Fuel efficiency stands out as a real advantage here. The ceramic walls hold heat so well that you’ll use two or three times less charcoal than a standard metal grill. One load of lump charcoal can handle multiple cooking sessions, which saves money over time despite the upfront investment.
Don’t let the “portable” label fool you though. At 75 pounds, this isn’t something you’ll toss in the trunk for a spontaneous tailgate. The handles make it manageable, but you’ll want to plan ahead for any real transport. The ceramic body also demands careful handling to avoid cracks.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Couples, small families of two or three people, and anyone with limited outdoor space will love the Joe Jr. It’s perfect for weeknight burgers, weekend smoking experiments, and anyone wanting to learn kamado cooking before upgrading to a larger model.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you regularly cook for crowds, have a large family, or want to smoke multiple items simultaneously, the 150-square-inch cooking surface will feel restrictive. Consider stepping up to the Classic series for more capacity.
2. Kamado Joe Classic Joe I 18-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill – Best Value
Kamado Joe® Classic Joe™ I Premium 18-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill and Smoker in Red with Cart, Side Shelves, Grill Gripper, and Ash Tool. 250 Cooking Square Inches, 2 Tier Cooking System, Model KJ23RH
18-inch Ceramic Grill
250 sq in Cooking Area
188 lbs
Divide & Conquer System
Pros
- Superior value vs Big Green Egg
- Excellent temperature control
- Innovative Divide & Conquer system
- Easy ash cleanup
- Versatile cooking options
Cons
- Heavy at 188 pounds
- Learning curve for vent control
- Requires lump charcoal
The Classic Joe I hits what I consider the sweet spot for most backyard cooks. You get the full Kamado Joe experience with all the essential features at a price that undercuts the competition by hundreds of dollars when you factor in included accessories.
The Divide and Conquer cooking system genuinely changes how you can cook on a kamado. This half-moon design lets you set up different heat zones simultaneously. You can sear steaks over direct heat on one side while slow-cooking vegetables on the other. That flexibility alone makes this grill stand out from traditional single-zone setups.
Temperature control feels almost magical once you get the hang of the vents. The Control Tower top vent gives you precise airflow management from 225 degrees for low-and-slow smoking all the way up to 750 degrees for high-heat searing. Many owners describe it as “set it and forget it” stable for hours on end.
The patented slide-out ash drawer solves one of the biggest complaints about kamado grills. Instead of digging out ash by hand through a tiny opening, you simply pull a drawer and dump it. Cleanup takes seconds instead of being a chore you dread.
Who Should Buy This Grill
First-time kamado buyers who want the full experience without the premium price tag will find their match here. It’s ideal for families of four to six people who want versatility for everything from weeknight grilling to weekend smoking projects.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you want the Air Lift hinge that makes opening the heavy dome effortless, consider upgrading to the Classic Joe II. The Classic I requires a bit more muscle to open, which matters if you have shoulder issues or limited strength.
3. Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series II 18-inch – Editor’s Choice
Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series II 18-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cart, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates and 250 Cooking Square Inches in Red, Model KJ-23RHC
18-inch Ceramic Grill
250 sq in Cooking Area
232 lbs
Air Lift Hinge
Pros
- Air Lift hinge makes dome easy to open
- Exceptional customer service
- Holds temperature perfectly
- Versatile cooking range
- Better value than Big Green Egg
Cons
- Higher price than Classic I
- Very heavy at 232 pounds
- Large footprint
The Classic Joe II earns our top recommendation because it solves the one real pain point of the Classic I: that heavy dome. The Air Lift hinge reduces the dome weight by 96 percent, meaning you can open it with a single finger. This might sound like a small thing until you’re cooking for six hours and opening that lid dozens of times.
I’ve talked to numerous owners who upgraded from the Classic I specifically for this feature, and every single one says it was worth it. The hinge transforms the cooking experience from something that requires physical effort into something genuinely effortless.
Beyond the hinge, you get the AMP FireBox design that eliminates the breakage issues some older kamados experienced. The six-piece design distributes heat more evenly and prevents the thermal stress cracks that could plague older single-piece fireboxes.
The Kontrol Tower top vent adds a rain-resistant design that keeps water out during unexpected showers. No more rushing to cover the grill when weather turns. The all-aluminum construction also means no rust issues down the road.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Serious outdoor cooks who want the best combination of features, build quality, and usability should choose the Classic II. The Air Lift hinge makes it accessible for anyone with physical limitations, and the overall package delivers professional-level versatility.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you’re primarily interested in smoking and want the most advanced smoke distribution technology, consider the Classic III with its SloRoller system. The II is excellent for everything, but the III specifically targets low-and-slow enthusiasts.
4. Kamado Joe Classic Joe Series III 18-inch – Premium Pick for Smoking
Kamado Joe® Classic Joe™ Series III 18-inch Charcoal Grill & Smoker, Red, with Cart, Side Shelves, Grill Gripper, and Ash Tool, 3 Tier Cooking System, Stainless Steel Cooking Grates, Model KJ23RHCI-A
18-inch Ceramic Grill
510 sq in Cooking Area
316 lbs
SloRoller Technology
Pros
- SloRoller for superior smoking
- 3-Tier Divide & Conquer
- Air Lift hinge included
- Excellent temperature stability
- Revolutionary smoke distribution
Cons
- Premium price point
- Very heavy at 316 pounds
- Longer shipping times
- Higher charcoal consumption
The Classic III represents Kamado Joe’s ultimate expression of smoking technology. The revolutionary SloRoller Hyperbolic Smoke Chamber transforms this grill into something that rivals dedicated offset smokers for flavor and consistency.
What makes the SloRoller special is how it circulates smoke and heat throughout the cooking chamber. Traditional kamados can have hot spots and uneven smoke distribution. The SloRoller’s hyperbolic design creates a rolling smoke pattern that eliminates those issues and infuses food with more consistent smoke flavor.
You also get the 3-Tier Divide and Conquer system that expands your cooking area to 510 square inches. That’s double the capacity of the Classic I and II. You can simultaneously smoke a brisket on the bottom rack, ribs on the middle, and chicken pieces on top.
The Air Lift hinge comes standard here, which matters because this thing weighs 316 pounds. You absolutely need that assistance opening the dome. The weight also means you’ll want to plan your placement carefully because moving this grill once it’s set up requires serious effort.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Smoking enthusiasts who want professional-level results without maintaining a separate offset smoker will find their dream machine here. If you regularly host large gatherings and need maximum cooking capacity, the 510 square inches gives you room to work.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Casual weekend grillers who mostly do quick burgers and steaks won’t utilize the SloRoller’s benefits enough to justify the price premium. The Classic II offers better value for general-purpose cooking.
5. Kamado Joe Big Joe Series I 24-inch – Best Value Large Kamado
Kamado Joe Big Joe Series I 24-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cart, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates and 450 Cooking Square Inches in Red, Model BJ24Rh
24-inch Ceramic Grill
450 sq in Cooking Area
353 lbs
2-Tier System
Pros
- Massive 450 sq in cooking surface
- Excellent temperature control
- Superior value vs Big Joe II/III
- Higher grilling height prevents scorching
- Perfect for large gatherings
Cons
- Extremely heavy at 353 pounds
- Higher charcoal consumption
- Large footprint
- Shorter warranty than Classic series
The Big Joe I answers the question I hear constantly: “What if I need more cooking space than the Classic but don’t want to pay for the Series II or III upgrades?” This 24-inch beast delivers genuine big-kamado performance at the best price point in the Big Joe lineup.
That 450-square-inch cooking surface gives you nearly double the capacity of the 18-inch Classic series. You can easily smoke two full briskets simultaneously or grill enough food for a legitimate party. The higher grilling height above the coals also prevents the scorching issues that plague some compact setups.
I’ve spoken with owners who own multiple grill types and consistently name the Big Joe I as their favorite. The combination of massive capacity, versatile temperature range from 220 to over 900 degrees, and included accessories makes it a true workhorse.
The main tradeoff beyond weight is charcoal consumption. A 24-inch chamber simply needs more fuel to maintain temperature. Budget for higher ongoing operating costs if you cook frequently. Some owners report going through charcoal noticeably faster than their smaller grills.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Anyone who regularly cooks for large groups, hosts frequent parties, or simply wants maximum cooking flexibility should consider the Big Joe I. It’s ideal for people who want the large capacity without paying for the Series II or III features they might not need.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you have limited patio space or rarely cook for more than six people, the Big Joe’s footprint and capacity will feel excessive. The Classic series offers plenty of cooking room for typical family use.
6. Big Joe Series II 24-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill – Heavy-Duty Upgrade
Kamado Joe Big Joe Series II 24-inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cart, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates and 450 Cooking Square Inches in Red, Model BJ24RHC
24-inch Ceramic Grill
450 sq in Cooking Area
394 lbs
Air Lift Hinge
Pros
- Air Lift hinge reduces dome weight
- Divide & Conquer doubles cooking space
- Excellent heat retention
- Superior gasket seal
- Advanced multi-panel firebox
Cons
- Very heavy at 394 pounds
- Higher price point
- Large footprint
- Delivery issues reported
The Big Joe II takes everything great about the Big Joe I and adds premium features that justify the higher price for serious enthusiasts. The Air Lift hinge becomes essential when you’re dealing with a dome this massive.
I cannot overstate how much the Air Lift hinge matters on a grill this size. At nearly 400 pounds total weight, that dome would be genuinely challenging to lift repeatedly without mechanical assistance. The hinge reduces the effective weight so dramatically that opening becomes effortless.
The advanced multi-panel firebox design eliminates the breakage concerns that plagued older single-piece fireboxes. The six-piece construction handles thermal stress better and distributes heat more evenly throughout the large chamber.
The double-thick wire mesh fiberglass gasket creates a superior air-tight seal compared to standard gaskets. This matters for temperature control, especially during long smoking sessions where you want consistent airflow without leaks.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Dedicated enthusiasts who want maximum capacity plus premium features like the Air Lift hinge will find the Big Joe II worth the investment. It’s perfect for people who cook frequently and want the convenience upgrades that make the experience more enjoyable.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you’re price-sensitive or unsure whether you’ll use a kamado regularly, start with the Big Joe I or Classic series. The II’s upgrades are significant but you need to cook often enough to appreciate them.
7. Joe Jr Portable Charcoal Grill 3-Piece Bundle – Best Portable Bundle
Joe Jr Portable Charcoal Grill 3-Piece Bundle by Kamado Joe with Grill Cover and Cart with Side Shelves
13.5-inch Bundle
150 sq in Cooking Area
102.7 lbs
Cover & Cart Included
Pros
- Includes cover and cart
- Excellent heat retention
- Fuel efficient
- Easy assembly
- Lifetime warranty on ceramics
Cons
- Small cooking surface
- Cover fits tightly
- No ash drawer
- Assembly instructions unclear
This Joe Jr bundle takes the excellent portable kamado and adds everything you need to start cooking immediately. You get the grill, a heavy-duty cart with side shelves, and a weather-resistant cover all in one package. For beginners who don’t already own kamado accessories, this removes guesswork from the buying process.
The cart raises the grill 31 inches off the ground, putting it at a comfortable working height. The four swivel casters let you roll it around your patio or storage area, which matters because even at 102 pounds this isn’t something you’ll lift easily.
Owners consistently praise the fuel efficiency and heat retention. You can get multiple cooking sessions from a single charcoal load, and the ceramic walls maintain temperature impressively well for such a compact unit. Several reviewers mention using it twice weekly for routine family meals.
The included cover provides all-weather protection, though several owners note it fits very tightly around the top vent. Take care when removing it to avoid accidentally damaging the ceramic. The heat deflector included transforms this into a proper smoker for low-and-slow cooking.
Who Should Buy This Grill
Beginners who want a complete package without shopping for separate accessories will find this bundle ideal. It’s perfect for people with limited space who still want full kamado performance and the convenience of included extras.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you already own kamado accessories or need more cooking capacity, consider the standalone Joe Jr or step up to the Classic series. The bundle premium only makes sense if you need everything included.
Kamado Joe Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Model
Choosing between eight different Kamado Joe models requires understanding how each feature affects real-world cooking. I’ll break down the key decisions you’ll face so you can match the right grill to your specific situation.
Size Selection: Classic vs Big Joe vs Joe Jr
The most important decision involves matching cooking capacity to your typical use. The Joe Jr’s 150 square inches works perfectly for couples and small families who cook for two or three people. You can fit about four burgers or a small chicken comfortably.
The Classic series with 250 square inches handles families of four to six people with room for entertaining. This size hits the sweet spot for most backyard cooks who want versatility without the footprint of a large unit.
The Big Joe series with 450 square inches targets serious entertainers and large families. You can smoke multiple briskets simultaneously or grill enough food for parties of 15 or more people. This size demands significant patio space and higher ongoing fuel costs.
Series Selection: I vs II vs III
Kamado Joe’s series designations indicate feature levels rather than just size differences. The Series I models offer essential features at the best value. You get the core Kamado Joe technologies without premium upgrades.
Series II models add the Air Lift hinge, improved gaskets, and the AMP multi-panel firebox. These upgrades matter most for people who cook frequently or have physical limitations. The Air Lift hinge alone justifies the price difference if you struggle with heavy lids.
The Series III brings the revolutionary SloRoller technology for superior smoking performance. This targets dedicated smoking enthusiasts who want professional-level smoke distribution without maintaining separate equipment.
Key Features to Consider
Divide and Conquer System: This half-moon cooking system lets you create different heat zones simultaneously. You can sear over direct heat while slow-cooking over indirect heat. This feature appears on all Classic and Big Joe models and fundamentally changes how you can cook.
Air Lift Hinge: Available on Series II and III models, this hinge reduces dome weight by 96 percent. If you have shoulder issues, limited strength, or simply want easier operation, this feature alone makes the upgrade worthwhile.
SloRoller Technology: Exclusive to the Classic III, this hyperbolic smoke chamber creates rolling smoke circulation that eliminates hot spots and improves smoke flavor distribution. Essential for dedicated smoking enthusiasts, overkill for casual grillers.
Wi-Fi Control: The Konnected Joe offers app-based temperature monitoring and adjustment. Useful for overnight smoking sessions, but consider the potential for software obsolescence over time.
Kamado Joe vs Big Green Egg
This comparison comes up constantly in forums and buyer discussions. Both brands make excellent ceramic grills, but Kamado Joe consistently offers better value when you factor in included accessories.
Kamado Joe includes features like the Divide and Conquer system, ash drawer, and side shelves that would cost hundreds extra with Big Green Egg. You’re getting comparable cooking performance with more innovative features at a similar or lower total price.
Big Green Egg offers a larger dealer network and more widespread brand recognition, which matters for local service and community support. However, Kamado Joe’s warranty and customer service receive exceptional marks from owners.
Warranty and Long-Term Value
Kamado Joe backs ceramic components with a lifetime warranty, which reflects confidence in their durability. Metal parts carry five-year coverage, while accessories like heat deflectors and pizza stones have three-year warranties.
These grills represent significant upfront investments, but owners consistently report they’re “the last grill you’ll ever buy.” The ceramic construction lasts decades with proper care, and the fuel efficiency saves money on charcoal over time compared to traditional metal grills.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Kamado Joe to buy?
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe II offers the best combination of features, performance, and value for most buyers. Its Air Lift hinge makes the heavy dome effortless to open, while the Divide and Conquer system provides versatile cooking options. For budget-conscious buyers, the Classic Joe I delivers excellent value. For maximum capacity, the Big Joe series handles large gatherings easily.
Is Kamado Joe or Big Green Egg better?
Kamado Joe typically offers better value than Big Green Egg when you compare included features. Kamado Joe includes the Divide and Conquer system, ash drawer, and side shelves that cost extra with Big Green Egg. Both brands deliver excellent cooking performance, but Kamado Joe provides more innovative features at similar or lower total cost.
Are Kamado Joe grills worth it?
Yes, Kamado Joe grills are worth the investment for serious outdoor cooks who want versatility and durability. The ceramic construction lasts decades with proper care, and the fuel efficiency saves money on charcoal compared to traditional grills. Owners consistently report using their Kamado Joe several times weekly and considering it the last grill they’ll ever need to buy.
How much does a Kamado Joe grill cost?
Kamado Joe grill prices range from approximately $430 for the Joe Jr portable model to over $2,200 for the Classic Joe III with advanced features. The Classic Joe I offers the best value around $1,000, while the Classic Joe II costs roughly $1,500. Big Joe models start around $1,500 and reach $1,900 for Series II upgrades.
Which size Kamado Joe do I need?
Choose the Joe Jr for couples and small families of two or three people with limited patio space. Select the Classic series for typical families of four to six people who want versatile cooking options. Choose the Big Joe series for large families, frequent entertaining, or anyone who regularly cooks for groups of 10 or more people.
Final Verdict
After comparing all eight models, the Kamado Joe Classic Joe II stands out as the best overall choice for most backyard cooks. It combines the essential features like the Divide and Conquer system with premium upgrades like the Air Lift hinge at a price point that delivers genuine value.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Classic Joe I offers excellent performance without the premium features you might not need. Small households should consider the Joe Jr for its compact footprint and impressive fuel efficiency. Dedicated smoking enthusiasts will find the Classic III’s SloRoller technology worth the investment for superior smoke flavor.
Whichever model you choose, you’re investing in a grill that will deliver decades of cooking enjoyment. The best Kamado Joe grills earn their reputation through consistent performance, innovative features, and build quality that stands the test of time.