Char-Griller vs Kamado Joe Charcoal Grills: Which Brand Fits You?
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The char griller vs kamado joe charcoal grill debate centers on material and design philosophy. Both brands offer kamado-style ceramic or insulated grills for smoking and grilling. The Char-Griller AKORN uses triple-wall steel insulation, while the Kamado Joe Classic Joe I relies on thick ceramic construction. You will find differences in cooking surface material, venting systems, and overall weight. This guide compares their specs to help you decide which build fits your outdoor kitchen needs.
Construction Material
Triple-wall insulated steel
Ceramic
Cooking Grates
Cast iron
Stainless steel
Venting System
Heat gauge and standard vents
Control Tower Top Vent
Ash Cleanup
Easy dump ash pan
Patented slide-out ash drawer
Cooking Flexibility
Standard grate with warm rack
Divide and Conquer flexible system
Weight
90 pounds
188 pounds
Choose the first if
- You prefer a lighter grill that is easier to move around your patio.
- You want cast iron grates that retain heat well for searing burgers.
- You are looking for a simpler ash disposal system with a dump pan.
Choose the second if
- You need precise temperature control for low-and-slow smoking using the top vent.
- You want to cook multiple items at different temperatures simultaneously with the flexible grate system.
- You prefer ceramic construction for superior heat retention and durability.
Verdict
Choose the Char-Griller AKORN if you prioritize portability and traditional cast iron cooking surfaces. Select the Kamado Joe Classic Joe I if you need advanced temperature precision and flexible cooking zones. Your choice depends on whether you value weight savings or specialized cooking features.
Char-Griller vs Kamado Joe Specs
Build Material
Edge: Tie
The Char-Griller AKORN uses triple-wall insulated steel for its body. This design aims to retain heat while using less charcoal. The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I is constructed from thick ceramic. Ceramic is known for excellent heat retention and durability. Steel is lighter but may lose heat faster than ceramic. Your choice depends on whether you prefer the traditional ceramic feel or the modern steel construction. Both materials suit outdoor cooking, but they offer different thermal properties and weights.
Cooking Capacity
Edge: Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado
The Char-Griller AKORN provides 306 square inches of main cooking space plus a 165-square-inch warming rack. This setup allows you to cook large batches, holding up to 23 burgers on the cast iron grates. The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I has an 18-inch diameter cooking surface. While it lacks the explicit square footage data, its diameter suggests a smaller total area than the Char-Griller. If you need to feed a large group at once, the Char-Griller offers more visible surface area and a dedicated warming rack.
Temperature Control
Edge: Kamado Joe Classic Joe I 18-Inch Ceramic Grill
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I features a Control Tower Top Vent. This vent allows precise airflow adjustment for temperatures ranging from 225 degrees Fahrenheit for smoking to 750 degrees Fahrenheit for searing. The Char-Griller AKORN includes a heat gauge to monitor internal temperatures. However, specific venting mechanisms are not detailed in the provided data. Precise airflow control is critical for low-and-slow smoking. The Kamado Joe system offers a clear advantage in stated temperature range and control precision.
Cleaning Ease
Edge: Kamado Joe Classic Joe I 18-Inch Ceramic Grill
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I includes a patented slide-out ash drawer. This feature lets you dump ashes without removing internal components, simplifying cleanup. The Char-Griller AKORN features an easy dump ash pan. While both aim to simplify maintenance, the Kamado Joe drawer system is explicitly highlighted for convenience. You do not need to disassemble the grill to access the ash. This can save time and effort after heavy use, making the Kamado Joe slightly more user-friendly for cleanup routines.
Grate Material
Edge: Tie
The Char-Griller AKORN uses cast iron grates. Cast iron retains heat well and provides excellent sear marks. It also holds up to 23 burgers according to the specs. The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I uses stainless steel cooking grates. Stainless steel is easier to clean and resists rust better than cast iron. Cast iron requires seasoning and maintenance. Your preference depends on whether you prioritize searing performance or low maintenance. Both materials are durable, but they require different care routines.
Portability and Weight
Edge: Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado
The Char-Griller AKORN weighs 90 pounds and sits on a cart with rubber wheels. This weight makes it manageable for relocation. The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I weighs 188 pounds. Ceramic grills are inherently heavier. The significant weight difference affects portability. If you plan to move the grill occasionally, the lighter Char-Griller is easier to handle. The heavier Kamado Joe is more stable but harder to shift. Consider your cart strength and mobility needs when choosing between these weights.
Which Kamado Grill Suits Your Cooking Style
You need high capacity for large gatherings
Our pick: Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado
The Char-Griller AKORN offers 306 square inches of main cooking space plus a 165-square-inch warming rack. Its cast iron grates hold up to 23 burgers. This larger footprint suits you if you frequently cook for crowds. The triple-wall steel design helps retain heat efficiently while you manage larger volumes of food.
You want precise temperature control for smoking
Our pick: Kamado Joe Classic Joe I 18-Inch Ceramic Grill
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I features a Control Tower Top Vent for precise airflow management. This allows you to maintain low temperatures for smoking or reach high heat for searing. The ceramic construction enhances heat retention. You get consistent results across a range of cooking styles with this adjustable vent system.
You prefer easy ash cleanup
Our pick: Kamado Joe Classic Joe I 18-Inch Ceramic Grill
The Kamado Joe includes a slide-out ash drawer. You can remove ashes without taking out internal components. This saves time between cooking sessions. The Char-Griller uses an easy dump pan, but the drawer system offers a different approach to maintenance. You appreciate quick cleanup when switching between grilling and smoking tasks.
Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado
Best for: steel kamado smokers needing a warming rack
- Cooking Area
- 445 sq. in.
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Material
- Cast iron
- Body Material
- Triple-wall insulated steel
- Ash Management
- EasyDump ash pan
- Fuel
- Charcoal
The Char-Griller AKORN is a 20-inch kamado charcoal grill built with triple-wall insulated steel. It offers 306 square inches of main cooking space and a 165-square-inch warming rack. The cast iron grates hold 23 burgers. Weighing 90 pounds, it sits on a tubular steel cart with rubber wheels. This design retains heat efficiently, using less charcoal for long cooks.
- Triple-wall insulated steel construction for heat retention
- 306-square-inch primary cast iron cooking surface
- 165-square-inch warming rack included
- Fits 23 burgers on the main grate
- Locking lid and double-wall insulation
- Heavier 90-pound build compared to ceramic alternatives
- Smaller 306-square-inch cooking area than 18-inch ceramic competitors
- Steel construction may retain less heat than thick ceramic walls
- You want a kamado shape with steel durability
- You need a warming rack for indirect cooking
- You prefer a grill that uses less charcoal due to insulation
- You prioritize ceramic heat retention over steel durability
- You need a larger cooking surface than 306 square inches
- You want a lighter grill for easy movement
Verdict: Char-Griller AKORN Kamado Grill suits those who value steel durability and charcoal efficiency. It fits users who need a warming rack and do not mind a heavier 90-pound unit.
Kamado Joe Classic Joe I 18-Inch Ceramic Grill
Best for: Precise smoking and flexible multi-level grilling
- Cooking Area
- 250 sq. in.
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Material
- Stainless steel
- Body Material
- Ceramic
- Ash Management
- Slide-out ash drawer
- Fuel
- Charcoal
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I is an 18-inch ceramic kamado grill in Blaze Red. It weighs 188 pounds and measures 11 by 18.3 inches. The unit includes a cart and side shelves. You get stainless steel cooking grates and a built-in thermometer. The Control Tower vent allows precise heat management. This model suits you if you want a durable ceramic smoker with flexible cooking zones.
- Divide and Conquer system allows multi-level cooking
- Control Tower Top Vent enables precise temperature control
- Patented slide-out ash drawer simplifies cleanup
- Stainless steel cooking grates resist rust
- 188-pound weight makes it heavy to move
- 18-inch cooking surface is smaller than larger models
- Square shape may limit grate flexibility compared to round designs
- You want precise temperature control for smoking
- You prefer ceramic construction for heat retention
- You need easy ash cleanup via a slide-out drawer
- You need a portable grill under 100 pounds
- You prefer a round cooking chamber for even heat
- You want a compact unit for small balconies
Verdict: Kamado Joe Classic Joe 18-Inch Ceramic Grill fits you if you prioritize precise heat control and easy maintenance over portability. Its heavy ceramic build and flexible cooking system make it ideal for dedicated backyard smokers.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado | Kamado Joe Classic Joe I 18-Inch Ceramic Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 445 sq. in. | 250 sq. in. |
| Grill Style | Kamado | Kamado |
| Grate Material | Cast iron | Stainless steel |
| Body Material | Triple-wall insulated steel | Ceramic |
| Ash Management | EasyDump ash pan | Slide-out ash drawer |
| Fuel | Charcoal | Charcoal |
| Smoker Style | Kamado | Kamado |
| Features | Offset Smoker, Cast Iron Grates | Offset Smoker, Cart, Side Shelves |
| Use | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker |
| Color | Black | Blaze Red |
| Material | – | Ceramic |
| Shape | – | Square |
| Dimensions | 45.2 × 31.3 × 47.4 inches | 18.3 × 11 × 18.9 inches |
| Weight | 90 pounds | 188 pounds |
| Size | Full Size | 18 inch |
| Model | 6719 | KJ23RH |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Char-Griller AKORN or Kamado Joe Classic Joe I better for portability?
The Char-Griller AKORN is the lighter option at 90 pounds. The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I weighs 188 pounds due to its thick ceramic construction. You should choose the Char-Griller if you need to move the grill frequently. The heavier Kamado Joe is designed for a permanent backyard spot.
Does the Char-Griller AKORN include a warming rack?
Yes, the Char-Griller AKORN features a 165-square-inch warming rack. This adds significant utility for keeping food warm or cooking multiple items. The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I focuses on its main 306-square-inch cooking area. You get extra space with the Char-Griller model for complex meals.
What is the difference in cooking surface between these two grills?
The Char-Griller AKORN provides 306 square inches of main cooking space plus a warming rack. The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I offers a 18-inch diameter ceramic cooking chamber. Both support grilling and smoking. You have more total surface area with the Char-Griller when including the warming rack.
Which grill is better for offset smoking?
Both models feature an offset smoker design. The Char-Griller AKORN uses cast iron grates for durability. The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I includes side shelves for convenience. You can use either for low-and-slow smoking. The choice depends on whether you prefer steel or ceramic construction for heat retention.
How do the dimensions compare for backyard placement?
The Char-Griller AKORN measures 31.3 inches wide and 47.4 inches high. The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I is 11 inches wide and 18.9 inches high. The Char-Griller has a larger footprint overall. You need more space for the AKORN. The Kamado Joe is more compact but much heavier.
Is the Kamado Joe Classic Joe I ceramic or steel?
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe I is made of thick ceramic. This material is known for excellent heat retention and durability. The Char-Griller AKORN uses triple-wall insulated steel instead. Ceramic offers a different thermal profile than steel. You get a traditional kamado feel with the Kamado Joe model.
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.
