Best Kamado Charcoal Grills in 2026: 9 Picks Ranked by Specs
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Choosing the best kamado charcoal grills requires comparing rugged steel and ceramic builds. We ranked 9 models based strictly on published specifications. The Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado leads because its 90-pound steel construction offers durable heat retention without excessive weight. This guide helps you decide which size, material, and feature set fits your outdoor kitchen space and cooking style.
Compare weight and cooking capacity
You should match the grill’s weight and size to your space. The Char-Griller AKORN weighs 90 pounds and offers full-size steel durability. The Kamado Joe Big Joe weighs 353 pounds for massive ceramic capacity. Choose lighter steel for flexibility or heavy ceramic for precision. Check the listed dimensions to ensure the unit fits your patio or deck area.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Best overall | Durable steel kamado smokers | |
| 2 | Kamado Joe Classic Joe I 18-Inch Ceramic Grill Also great | Precise temperature control and flexible multi-zone cooking | |
| 3 | Kamado Joe Big Joe I 24-Inch Ceramic Grill Best premium | Large capacity cooking and precise temperature control | |
| 4 | London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill Best budget | Small patios and mobile cooking setups | |
| 5 | Weber Summit Kamado E6 24-Inch Also great | precise temperature control and large batches | |
| 6 | Primo Oval XL 400 Ceramic Grill Also great | Large family meals and oval-shaped heat zones | |
| 7 | GRILLA Kong 24-Inch Ceramic Kamado Also great | High-heat searing and large capacity smoking | |
| 8 | Firepit Nation Primo Oval Large 300 Also great | Oval ceramic kamado cooking | |
| 9 | Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Grill Cart Best large | large capacity steel kamado with prep station |
The best fit for you
- You need a durable steel kamado for rugged use – Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado – Its 90-pound steel build prioritizes durability and efficient heat retention.
- You want a portable setup for small patios – London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill – Locking casters and a foldable design make it ideal for flexible placement.
- You require massive cooking capacity for large gatherings – Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Grill Cart – This large steel kamado offers raw cooking space and an integrated prep station.
- You prefer precise control with a dedicated cart – Kamado Joe Classic Joe I 18-Inch Ceramic Grill – Its square ceramic design and ash drawer suit serious smokers who value control.
Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado
Best for: Durable steel kamado smokers
- Smoker Style
- Kamado
- Cooking Area
- 445 sq. in.
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Material
- Cast iron
- Body Material
- Triple-wall insulated steel
- Ash Management
- EasyDump ash pan
The Char-Griller AKORN is a 20-inch kamado charcoal grill and smoker. It features triple-wall insulated steel construction to retain heat efficiently. The cast iron grates offer 306 square inches of cooking space, plus a 165-square-inch warming rack. Weighing 90 pounds, it sits on a tubular steel cart with rubber wheels. This setup suits you if you want durable, all-weather steel construction rather than ceramic.
- Triple-wall insulated steel body for heat retention
- 306 square inches of cast iron cooking space
- Includes 165 square-inch warming rack
- Durable tubular steel cart with rubber wheels
- 90-pound weight makes it heavier than many ceramic alternatives
- 20-inch diameter is smaller than 24-inch or 400-series models
- Single heat gauge limits precise airflow monitoring
- You want durable steel construction that resists weather
- You need a reliable smoker for low-and-slow cooking
- You prefer a cart-based design for mobility
- You need ceramic insulation for superior temperature stability
- You require large capacity for big gatherings
- You want precise digital temperature control
Verdict: Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado fits users who prioritize rugged steel durability and efficient heat retention over ceramic aesthetics or massive cooking capacity.
Kamado Joe Classic Joe I 18-Inch Ceramic Grill
Best for: Precise temperature control and flexible multi-zone cooking
- Smoker Style
- Kamado
- Cooking Area
- 250 sq. in.
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Material
- Stainless steel
- Body Material
- Ceramic
- Ash Management
- Slide-out ash drawer
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I is an 18-inch ceramic kamado grill on a cart. It features stainless steel cooking grates and a built-in thermometer. The Control Tower Top Vent allows precise airflow management for temperatures between 225F and 750F. Its square shape and Divide and Conquer system support multi-level cooking. This unit weighs 188 pounds and includes side shelves for workspace.
- 18-inch ceramic construction for heat retention
- Stainless steel cooking grates for durability
- Control Tower Top Vent for precise temperature control
- Patented ash drawer simplifies cleanup
- Square shape with multi-level cooking system
- 188-pound weight makes it heavier than many competitors
- 18-inch cooking size is smaller than the 20-inch and 24-inch options on this list
- You want a kamado grill with a dedicated cart and side shelves
- You prefer a square cooking chamber for flexible multi-zone cooking
- You need a grill that reaches searing temperatures up to 750F
- You need a larger cooking surface than 18 inches
- You prefer a round ceramic design over a square one
- You want a lighter grill that is easier to move
Verdict: Kamado Joe Classic Joe 18-Inch Ceramic Grill suits cooks who value precise temperature control and a dedicated cart setup over maximum cooking capacity. Its square design and ash drawer offer practical advantages for serious smokers who do not mind the 188-pound weight.
Kamado Joe Big Joe I 24-Inch Ceramic Grill
Best for: Large capacity cooking and precise temperature control
- Smoker Style
- Kamado
- Cooking Area
- 450 sq. in.
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Material
- Stainless steel
- Body Material
- Ceramic
- Ash Management
- Slide-out ash drawer
The Kamado Joe Big Joe is a 24-inch ceramic kamado grill and smoker. It features a 2-tier Divide & Conquer flexible cooking system for multi-level cooking. The unit includes a premium cart with locking wheels and finished folding side shelves. A patented slide-out ash drawer simplifies cleanup. Built-in thermometer and cast iron top vent allow precise temperature control from smoking to searing.
- 24-inch cooking diameter provides ample space
- 2-tier Divide & Conquer system enables simultaneous cooking at different temperatures
- Patented slide-out ash drawer simplifies cleaning
- Cast iron top vent ensures precise airflow management
- Includes premium cart with locking wheels and side shelves
- Weighs 353 pounds, making it significantly heavier than most competitors
- Height of 54 inches requires substantial vertical clearance
- Footprint of 18.1 by 18 inches limits portability
- You need a large 24-inch cooking surface for big gatherings
- You want the convenience of a dedicated cart with storage
- You value precise temperature control for both smoking and searing
- You have limited space for a bulky 353-pound unit
- You prefer a lighter grill that is easier to move
- You do not want a permanent outdoor kitchen setup
Verdict: Kamado Joe Big Joe 24-Inch Ceramic Grill suits those who prioritize massive cooking capacity and precise heat management. Its heavy, cart-based design is ideal for a dedicated outdoor kitchen rather than portable use.
London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill
Best for: Small patios and mobile cooking setups
- Smoker Style
- Kamado
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Diameter
- 13.2 in
- Grate Material
- Stainless Steel
- Body Material
- Ceramic
- Fuel
- Charcoal
The London Sunshine is a 15.4-inch ceramic kamado grill designed for mobility and versatility. It features a 1-inch thick ceramic wall for efficient heat retention and a temperature range from 180°F to 750°F. The unit includes locking casters for easy patio movement and foldable side shelves for prep space. At 110 pounds, it offers a compact footprint suitable for couples or smaller households seeking flexible outdoor cooking options.
- 1-inch thick ceramic wall maximizes airflow efficiency and fuel economy
- Locking casters allow secure and effortless movement across patio surfaces
- Temperature range spans 180°F to 750°F for smoking and searing
- Foldable stainless steel cooking grate enables mid-cook charcoal addition
- High-temperature glass fiber gasket is more durable than standard felt
- 15.4-inch cooking diameter is smaller than most competitors on this list
- 110-pound weight requires a dedicated stand for stability and mobility
- 13.2-inch effective cooking grate limits capacity for large meals
- You need a grill that moves easily across your patio with locking casters
- You have limited outdoor space and require foldable side shelves
- You cook for two to four people and prefer a compact footprint
- You need to cook for large groups requiring a 20-inch or larger grate
- You prefer a built-in stationary grill rather than a mobile unit on a stand
- You want a temperature range exceeding 750°F for extreme high-heat searing
Verdict: London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill fits buyers who prioritize portability and space-saving features over maximum cooking capacity. Its locking casters and foldable design make it ideal for patios where flexible placement is essential.
Weber Summit Kamado E6 24-Inch
Best for: precise temperature control and large batches
- Smoker Style
- Kamado
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Diameter
- 24 in
- Body Material
- Porcelain-enameled steel
- Ash Management
- One-Touch cleaning system
- Fuel
- Charcoal
The Weber Summit Kamado E6 is a 24-inch charcoal grill built with dual-walled insulated steel. It features a RapidFire lid damper for quick heat adjustments and an adjustable grate for versatile cooking. The unit weighs 132 pounds and measures 36.8 inches wide. This model suits those who want durable steel construction and precise temperature control for both smoking and searing.
- Dual-walled insulation for stable temperatures
- 24-inch cooking area for large batches
- RapidFire lid damper for fast heat changes
- Adjustable grate for low and high heat
- 132-pound weight requires sturdy support
- Steel body may rust if not maintained
- You need precise temperature control for smoking
- You want durable steel construction
- You cook for larger groups
- You prefer lightweight ceramic models
- You want a smaller cooking surface
- You need porcelain-enameled steel grates
Verdict: Weber Summit Kamado E6 24-Inch delivers reliable heat management for serious smokers who value steel durability and a large cooking footprint. It fits users who prioritize adjustable grates and rapid temperature changes over ceramic aesthetics.
Primo Oval XL 400 Ceramic Grill
Best for: Large family meals and oval-shaped heat zones
- Smoker Style
- Kamado
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Material
- Stainless Steel
- Body Material
- Ceramic
- Features
- Stainless Steel Grates
- Use
- Grilling
The Primo Oval XL 400 is a large ceramic kamado grill with a patented oval shape. It measures 38 inches long and 30 inches wide, offering a substantial cooking footprint. The unit weighs 250 pounds and includes stainless steel grates. It is designed for serious cooks who need space for large roasts or multiple items. The oval design helps manage heat zones effectively for various cooking styles.
- Patented oval ceramic shape for efficient heat distribution
- Stainless steel grates for durability
- Large 38-inch length provides ample cooking space
- Premium-grade ceramics retain heat well
- Weighs 250 pounds, making it heavy and difficult to move
- Requires lump charcoal only, limiting fuel options
- 30-inch width may not fit smaller patios
- You need a large cooking surface for family gatherings
- You prefer the heat management benefits of an oval shape
- You have a sturdy deck or patio to support the weight
- You want to use briquettes or wood pellets
- You need a lightweight grill for easy transport
- You have limited space for a 38-inch long unit
Verdict: Primo Oval XL 400 Ceramic Grill suits those who prioritize capacity and specialized heat zones. It is ideal for cooks who can handle its significant weight and specific fuel requirements.
GRILLA Kong 24-Inch Ceramic Kamado
Best for: High-heat searing and large capacity smoking
- Smoker Style
- Kamado
- Cooking Area
- 600 sq. in.
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Body Material
- Ceramic
- Use
- Grilling
- Shape
- Square
The GRILLA Kong is a 24-inch square ceramic kamado grill offering 600 square inches of cook space. It reaches temperatures up to 700°F and features adjustable vents for precise heat control. The unit includes two levels of grill grates and is built with stainless steel hardware. Its dimensions are 56 by 30.3 by 49 inches. This grill suits those who need versatile high-heat performance in a durable ceramic shell.
- 24-inch diameter ceramic construction retains heat effectively
- 600 square inches of total cooking space across two grate levels
- Reaches temperatures up to 700°F for searing
- Adjustable vents allow for precise temperature management
- Square shape may not fit round grill covers or standard round accessories
- Large footprint at 56 inches wide requires significant outdoor space
- Heavier build due to thick ceramic walls limits easy portability
- You want high-temperature searing capabilities alongside low-and-slow smoking
- You have a patio or yard area large enough for a 56-inch wide unit
- You prefer ceramic construction for superior heat retention and fuel efficiency
- You have limited storage space and need a compact or portable grill
- You prefer round kamado designs for easier accessory compatibility
- You need a grill that can be easily moved by one person
Verdict: GRILLA Kong 24-Inch Ceramic Kamado delivers serious heat and ample space for serious cooks. It fits buyers who prioritize ceramic durability and high-temperature performance over compact portability.
Firepit Nation Primo Oval Large 300
Best for: Oval ceramic kamado cooking
- Smoker Style
- Kamado
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Material
- Stainless Steel
- Body Material
- Ceramic
- Features
- Stainless Steel Grates
- Use
- Grilling
The Firepit Nation Primo Oval Large 300 is a 30-inch ceramic kamado grill with an oval cooking surface. It weighs 152 pounds and stands 24 inches tall. The unit features stainless steel grates and uses lump charcoal only. Its patented oval shape offers a distinct cooking footprint compared to round competitors. This grill suits you if you want durable ceramic construction and a unique layout for indirect and direct heat cooking.
- Patented oval shape for versatile cooking zones
- Premium-grade ceramic construction for heat retention
- Stainless steel grates for durability
- Functions as a grill, oven, roaster, or smoker
- Heavier build at 152 pounds compared to lighter models
- Lump charcoal only requirement limits fuel options
- 30-inch width is narrower than some 24-inch diameter round competitors
- You want a unique oval cooking surface
- You prefer premium-grade ceramic construction
- You cook with lump charcoal exclusively
- You need a round grill shape
- You prefer using briquettes or pellets
- You want a lighter, more portable unit
Verdict: Firepit Nation Primo Oval Large 300 is a solid choice for cooks who value the thermal efficiency of ceramic and the flexibility of an oval cooking area. It fits you if you prioritize durable materials and a distinct shape over maximum width.
Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Grill Cart
Best for: large capacity steel kamado with prep station
- Smoker Style
- Kamado
- Cooking Area
- 314 sq. in.
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Diameter
- 20 inches
- Grate Material
- Cast iron
- Body Material
- Triple-walled steel
The Char-Griller AKORN is a large kamado charcoal grill mounted on a dedicated steel cart. It features a 20-inch cooking diameter and 314 square inches of total cooking area, allowing you to cook up to 27 burgers at once. The triple-walled steel design provides insulation, while the included prep station offers a 26 by 26-inch workstation. This setup suits those who need substantial capacity and built-in storage.
- 20-inch cooking diameter provides 314 square inches of cooking space
- Triple-walled steel insulated design for heat retention
- Includes a 26 by 26-inch prep station worktable
- Heavy-duty steel construction with bottom storage shelf
- Steel construction makes it heavier at 110 pounds
- Larger footprint requires 31 by 45 by 47 inches of space
- Cooking area is smaller than 24-inch ceramic competitors
- You need a large cooking surface for big gatherings
- You want a built-in prep station and storage shelf
- You prefer a steel kamado over ceramic
- You have limited outdoor space for a large unit
- You prefer the heat retention of ceramic construction
- You want a lighter grill that is easier to move
Verdict: Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Grill Cart is a high-capacity steel kamado for cooks who prioritize raw cooking space and integrated prep areas over ceramic insulation.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado | Kamado Joe Classic Joe I 18-Inch Ceramic Grill | Kamado Joe Big Joe I 24-Inch Ceramic Grill | London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill | Weber Summit Kamado E6 24-Inch | Primo Oval XL 400 Ceramic Grill | GRILLA Kong 24-Inch Ceramic Kamado | Firepit Nation Primo Oval Large 300 | Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Grill Cart |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 445 sq. in. | 250 sq. in. | 450 sq. in. | – | – | – | 600 sq. in. | – | 314 sq. in. |
| Grill Style | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado |
| Grate Diameter | – | – | – | 13.2 in | 24 in | – | – | – | 20 inches |
| Grate Material | Cast iron | Stainless steel | Stainless steel | Stainless Steel | – | Stainless Steel | – | Stainless Steel | Cast iron |
| Body Material | Triple-wall insulated steel | Ceramic | Ceramic | Ceramic | Porcelain-enameled steel | Ceramic | Ceramic | Ceramic | Triple-walled steel |
| Ash Management | EasyDump ash pan | Slide-out ash drawer | Slide-out ash drawer | – | One-Touch cleaning system | – | – | – | Easy Dump ash pan |
| Fuel | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal | – | – | – | Charcoal |
| Smoker Style | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado |
| Features | Offset Smoker, Cast Iron Grates | Offset Smoker, Cart, Side Shelves | Offset Smoker, Cart, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates | Offset Smoker, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates | – | Stainless Steel Grates | – | Stainless Steel Grates | Cart |
| Use | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling | Grilling | Grilling | Grilling | Grilling |
| Color | Black | Blaze Red | Blaze Red | Green | Black | Black | – | Black | Ash |
| Size | Full Size | 18 inch | 24 inch | – | 24 inches x 24 inches x 24 inches | – | – | – | Large |
| Material | – | Ceramic | Ceramic | Ceramic | – | Ceramic | Ceramic | Ceramic | – |
| Shape | – | Square | Square | – | – | – | Square | – | – |
| Dimensions | 45.2 × 31.3 × 47.4 inches | 18.3 × 11 × 18.9 inches | 18 × 18.1 × 54 inches | 20.9 × 36.6 × 40.6 inches | 30.6 × 36.8 × 29.3 inches | 38 × 30 × 30 inches | 30.3 × 56 × 49 inches | 30 × 30 × 24 inches | 31 × 45 × 47 inches |
| Weight | 90 pounds | 188 pounds | 353 pounds | 110 pounds | 132 pounds | 250 pounds | – | 152 pounds | 110 pounds |
| Model | 6719 | KJ23RH | BJ24RH | LSKMD-0080GR | 18201001 | PGCXLH | 4000097B | PGCLGH | E6520 |
If you want specifications for alternative fuel options beyond charcoal, compare the best kamado grills.
How to choose the right one
Check material durability
You should decide between steel and ceramic based on your priority for ruggedness versus heat retention. Steel models like the Char-Griller AKORN offer durable construction at a manageable 90 pounds. Ceramic options such as the Kamado Joe Classic Joe provide precise temperature control but weigh significantly more. Choose steel for flexibility and ceramic for superior insulation during long smoking sessions.
Assess weight and portability
Weight determines how easily you can move the grill. The Char-Griller AKORN is light enough at 90 pounds for flexible placement. Heavier units like the Kamado Joe Big Joe weigh 353 pounds and require a permanent spot. If you need mobility, look for features like locking casters on the London Sunshine model. Heavy ceramic grills are best for dedicated outdoor kitchens rather than portable use.
Match cooking capacity
Your cooking volume dictates the required size. The Char-Griller AKORN Grill Cart provides large capacity with an integrated prep station. The Kamado Joe Big Joe offers massive ceramic capacity for large batches. Smaller units like the London Sunshine 15-inch are better for small patios. Check the dimensions to ensure the grill fits your available space while providing enough room for your typical meal sizes.
Evaluate shape and heat zones
The shape affects how you arrange food. Square grills like the Kamado Joe Classic Joe offer flexible multi-zone cooking. Oval models such as the Primo Oval XL 400 create specialized heat zones ideal for large family meals. Consider whether you need uniform heat or distinct zones for searing and indirect cooking. The shape also influences how much food fits on the grates simultaneously.
Review included features
Features like offset smokers, carts, and side shelves add functionality. The Char-Griller AKORN includes an offset smoker and cast iron grates. The Kamado Joe Classic Joe comes with a cart and side shelves for better organization. Stainless steel grates on the Weber Summit Kamado E6 offer easy cleaning. Choose features that support your specific cooking style and reduce the need for additional accessories.
Frequently asked questions
Which kamado grill is best for small patios?
The London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill fits buyers who prioritize portability and space-saving features. Its locking casters and foldable design make it ideal for patios where flexible placement is essential. At 110 pounds, it is lighter than most full-size ceramic options, allowing you to move it easily without sacrificing the thermal efficiency of ceramic construction.
What is the lightest steel kamado grill?
The Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado is the lightest steel option at 90 pounds. It offers full-size durability without the excessive weight of ceramic models. This makes it suitable for users who want rugged steel construction and efficient heat retention. Its compact footprint also helps it fit into tighter outdoor spaces compared to larger, heavier alternatives.
Which kamado has the largest cooking capacity?
The Kamado Joe Big Joe 24-Inch Ceramic Grill provides massive cooking capacity for serious cooks. Weighing 353 pounds, it is designed for a dedicated outdoor kitchen rather than portable use. Its large size allows you to cook large batches efficiently. The square design and cart setup support high-volume grilling and smoking tasks.
Do kamado grills come with carts?
Yes, several models include carts for stability and mobility. The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I and Big Joe I feature dedicated cart setups with side shelves. The Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Grill Cart offers an integrated prep area. These carts help manage the significant weight of ceramic or large steel units while providing convenient workspace.
Are there oval-shaped kamado grills available?
Yes, the Primo Oval XL 400 and Firepit Nation Primo Oval Large 300 offer oval-shaped cooking areas. These designs provide specialized heat zones ideal for large family meals. The Primo Oval XL 400 weighs 250 pounds, while the Firepit Nation version weighs 152 pounds. Both utilize ceramic material for consistent heat retention and flexible cooking arrangements.
Which kamado is best for high-heat searing?
The GRILLA Kong 24-Inch Ceramic Kamado delivers serious heat for high-temperature performance. It fits buyers who prioritize ceramic durability and searing capabilities over compact portability. Its large dimensions support ample space for serious cooks. This model is ideal if you need to achieve high heat levels for steaks or other seared dishes.
What material is better for kamado grills?
Steel offers rugged durability and manageable weight, while ceramic provides superior heat retention. The Char-Griller AKORN uses steel for a 90-pound build that balances durability and portability. Ceramic options like the Kamado Joe Big Joe weigh up to 353 pounds but offer precise temperature control. Choose steel for flexibility and ceramic for thermal efficiency.
See also
Prices and specifications on this page are read from the Amazon product listing and can change at any time. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback. Nobody at this site handled or measured these products.
