Looking Beyond the Kamado Joe Big Joe Series I? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Kamado Joe Big Joe Series I delivers high-capacity ceramic cooking with precise airflow control, making it a robust choice for serious smokers. If you are researching kamado joe big joe series i alternatives, you likely need a different size, material, or feature set. This 24-inch unit weighs 353 pounds and requires significant space. Its large footprint and heavy ceramic construction suit stationary setups but limit portability. You might prefer a lighter steel model or a smaller ceramic unit for tighter patios.
We selected these alternatives because their specifications overlap with the original’s core functions. All options use charcoal and feature kamado-style heat retention. Some include carts or side shelves for prep space, while others prioritize compact dimensions or dual-fuel versatility. The London Sunshine 15-inch offers mobility for couples, and the Char-Griller AKORN provides durable steel construction. Each product addresses specific gaps in the Big Joe’s design, such as weight, material, or footprint. You can choose based on whether you need integrated storage, easier cleaning, or a smaller cooking surface. The list covers ceramic and steel builds to match your spatial and functional constraints.
How these alternatives differ from Big Joe I
Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-Inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-Inch reduces the cooking footprint significantly compared to the 24-inch Big Joe I. It weighs 232 pounds, which is 121 pounds lighter than the original, making it easier to position if you have limited patio space. The ceramic construction and included cart remain consistent, preserving the precise temperature control and heat retention you expect from the brand. You sacrifice cooking area, which may matter for large cuts of meat, but gain a more manageable unit for smaller households. This model suits buyers who want the same premium ceramic performance without the bulk of the larger Series I.
London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill
The London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill offers a compact alternative for those who find the Big Joe I too large. Weighing just 110 pounds, it is significantly lighter and easier to move around your outdoor space. The smaller 15-inch diameter limits the amount of food you can cook at once, making it ideal for couples or small families rather than large gatherings. It retains the ceramic material and kamado style for efficient heat retention, but you give up the extensive side shelves and cart setup of the Big Joe I. This grill is a practical choice if mobility and space savings are your top priorities.
Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Grill
The Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Grill shifts from ceramic to steel construction, offering a different durability profile. It weighs 109 pounds, much lighter than the 353-pound Big Joe I, though its dimensions are wider at 45 inches across. This model includes a cart and cast iron grates, providing robust cooking surfaces and mobility. You trade the superior heat retention of ceramic for the ruggedness of steel, which may heat up faster but cool down quicker as well. The integrated prep space and offset smoker feature appeal to those who want versatile functionality. This grill is a solid choice for users who prioritize material toughness and ease of movement over traditional kamado aesthetics.
Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado
The Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado (model 6719) presents a steel kamado option with a warming rack, differing from the Big Joe I’s ceramic build. At 90 pounds, it is significantly lighter than the 353-pound original, making it easier to relocate. The dimensions are wider, measuring 45.2 inches in length, which provides more surface area for prep or side dishes. You give up the ceramic heat retention and specific airflow features of the Big Joe I, gaining instead a durable steel unit with cart mobility. This model suits buyers who want a steel kamado with additional warming capabilities and do not need the larger capacity of the 24-inch ceramic grills. It is a practical choice for those valuing durability and flexibility.
Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill
The Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill offers versatility that the Big Joe I cannot match. While the Big Joe I is strictly charcoal, this model allows you to switch between gas and charcoal, providing flexibility for different cooking needs. It weighs 116 pounds, much lighter than the 353-pound Big Joe I, and features a compact footprint. You lose the deep ceramic heat retention and traditional kamado smoking experience, gaining instead the convenience of gas ignition and the option to use charcoal for smoke flavor. This grill is ideal for cooks who value fuel options and quick startup times over the dedicated ceramic kamado performance. It fits those who want a multi-functional grill rather than a specialized smoker.
Bestfire 63-Inch Charcoal Grill Smoker
The Bestfire 63-Inch Charcoal Grill Smoker provides extensive storage and capacity, contrasting with the Big Joe I’s focus on cooking space. It weighs 79.4 pounds, significantly lighter than the 353-pound original, yet offers a large cabinet for tool storage. The design includes wheels and side shelves, enhancing mobility and prep area. You trade the ceramic construction and precise airflow control of the Big Joe I for a steel cabinet setup that prioritizes organization and space efficiency. This grill is best for large gatherings where storage and mobility are as important as cooking capacity. It suits buyers who need a stable, mobile station with integrated storage rather than the traditional kamado cooking experience found in the Big Joe I.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kamado Joe Big Joe I 24-Inch Ceramic Grill Best overall | High-capacity ceramic kamado cooking and smoking | |
| 2 | Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-Inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill Best premium | Premium ceramic kamado with included cart | |
| 3 | London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill Also great | small patios and couples cooking | |
| 4 | Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Grill Best budget | steel kamado smokers needing prep space | |
| 5 | Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Also great | Steel kamado fans needing a warming rack | |
| 6 | Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill Also great | versatile charcoal and propane cooking | |
| 7 | Bestfire 63-Inch Charcoal Grill Smoker Best storage cabinet | large gatherings with integrated storage |
Kamado Joe Big Joe I 24-Inch Ceramic Grill
Best for: High-capacity ceramic kamado cooking and smoking
- Cooking Area
- 450 sq. in.
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Material
- Stainless steel
- Body Material
- Ceramic
- Ash Management
- Slide-out ash drawer
- Fuel
- Charcoal
The Kamado Joe Big Joe Series I is a 24-inch ceramic kamado grill designed for serious outdoor cooking. It features a heavy-duty cart with locking wheels and stainless steel side shelves. The unit includes a Divide & Conquer cooking system and a patented ash drawer for easy cleanup. Weighing 353 pounds, this square-shaped grill offers precise airflow control via a cast iron top vent. It suits those who want high heat retention and versatile cooking zones in a durable, stationary setup.
- 24-inch ceramic cooking chamber for high heat retention
- Divide & Conquer flexible cooking system for multi-zone cooking
- Patented slide-out ash drawer simplifies cleanup
- Cast iron top vent allows precise airflow management
- Includes stainless steel cooking grates and built-in thermometer
- 353-pound weight makes the unit difficult to move
- 24-inch diameter limits total cooking capacity compared to larger models
- Square shape may restrict standard round grate compatibility
- You want a large, stationary grill with a dedicated cart
- You need precise temperature control for both smoking and searing
- You prefer ceramic construction for fuel efficiency and heat retention
- You need a portable grill that fits in a small car
- You prefer gas or propane fuel for quick ignition
- You want a round cooking surface for standard round accessories
Verdict: Kamado Joe Big Joe Series I 24-inch Ceramic Grill is a robust, high-capacity option for cooks who prioritize heat retention and precise airflow control over portability. It fits buyers who have space for a heavy, stationary unit and want to master low-and-slow smoking or high-heat searing.
Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-Inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill
Best for: Premium ceramic kamado with included cart
- Cooking Area
- 250 Cooking Square Inches
- Grate Material
- Stainless Steel
- Body Material
- Ceramic
- Fuel
- Charcoal
- Smoker Style
- Kamado
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Cart, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe II is an 18-inch ceramic kamado grill that includes a cast iron cart with locking wheels. It features a 2-Tier Divide & Conquer cooking system for multi-level cooking and an Air Lift Hinge to reduce dome weight. With a Kontrol Tower Top Vent, you can maintain precise airflow for smoking or searing. This 232-pound unit suits those wanting premium build quality and flexible cooking zones.
- Includes a cast iron cart with locking wheels
- 2-Tier Divide & Conquer flexible cooking system
- Kontrol Tower Top Vent for precise airflow
- Air Lift Hinge reduces dome weight
- AMP FireBox design increases efficiency
- 18-inch cooking size is smaller than the 24-inch Big Joe Series I
- 232-pound weight makes the unit heavy and bulky to move
- You want a premium ceramic kamado with an included cart
- You need multi-level cooking zones for different foods
- You prefer a lighter dome lift mechanism for easier handling
- You need a larger 24-inch cooking surface
- You prefer a lighter grill for easy portability
- You want a gas grill instead of charcoal
Verdict: Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-Inch offers precise temperature control and flexible cooking zones in a durable ceramic build. It fits buyers who value a complete setup with a sturdy cart and do not require the larger capacity of the 24-inch models.
London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill
Best for: small patios and couples cooking
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Diameter
- 13.2 in
- Grate Material
- Stainless Steel
- Body Material
- Ceramic
- Fuel
- Charcoal
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates
The London Sunshine 15-inch ceramic kamado grill offers a compact cooking solution for smaller households. Its 13.2-inch cooking grate fits well for couples, while the 180°F to 750°F temperature range supports both smoking and searing. The unit weighs 110 pounds and measures 36.6 inches wide. You get locking casters for mobility and foldable side shelves for prep space. This model suits those needing a durable, space-saving charcoal grill with stable placement options.
- 1-inch thick ceramic walls for superior heat retention
- Locking casters allow easy movement and secure positioning
- Foldable side shelves provide extra workspace
- Temperature range of 180°F to 750°F handles various cooking styles
- 13.2-inch cooking grate is smaller than the 20-inch and 24-inch models on this list
- 110-pound weight is substantial for a 15-inch ceramic unit
- 15.4-inch body diameter limits total cooking area compared to larger competitors
- You need a compact grill for a small patio or balcony
- You want locking casters to secure the grill in place during use
- You prefer foldable side shelves to save space when not in use
- You need to cook for large groups requiring a 20-inch or 24-inch grate
- You prefer a gas grill over a charcoal kamado design
- You want a lighter unit that is easier to move without wheels
Verdict: London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill is a practical choice for couples or small families who value mobility and compact storage. It fits buyers who need a stable, space-saving charcoal grill with a wide temperature range.
Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Grill
Best for: steel kamado smokers needing prep space
- Cooking Area
- 445 sq. in.
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Diameter
- 20 in
- Grate Material
- Cast iron
- Body Material
- Triple-wall insulated steel
- Fuel
- Charcoal
The Char-Griller AKORN is a 20-inch kamado charcoal grill and smoker. It offers 314 square inches of primary cooking space plus a 133 square inch warming rack. The unit features triple-wall insulated steel construction to retain heat efficiently. It sits on a tubular steel cart with 26 by 26 inches of prep space. Dual adjustable dampers allow you to control temperature precisely. This model suits you if you want durable steel construction in a kamado format.
- Triple-wall insulated steel design retains heat and saves charcoal
- 314 square inches of primary cooking area
- Dual adjustable dampers for precise temperature control
- Includes a cart with 26 by 26 inches of prep space
- Heavier build at 109 pounds compared to ceramic alternatives
- Smaller primary cooking capacity than the 24-inch Big Joe Series I
- Limited to charcoal fuel rather than gas or dual-fuel options
- You prefer the durability and heat retention of insulated steel over ceramic
- You need a dedicated charcoal kamado with a built-in cart for prep space
- You want precise temperature control via dual dampers
- You require gas fuel or a dual-fuel grill for convenience
- You need a larger cooking capacity than 314 square inches
- You prefer the traditional lightweight feel of ceramic kamados
Verdict: Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Grill fits buyers who want the heat efficiency of a kamado with the ruggedness of steel construction. It is ideal for those who prioritize durable material and integrated prep space over ceramic aesthetics or larger capacity.
Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado
Best for: Steel kamado fans 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
This 20-inch kamado grill uses triple-wall insulated steel to retain heat efficiently. It offers 306 square inches of cast iron cooking space plus a 165-square-inch warming rack. The unit weighs 90 pounds and includes a cart with rubber wheels. It suits you if you want a durable steel kamado that holds heat well without requiring ceramic maintenance.
- Triple-wall insulated steel construction retains heat effectively
- 306-square-inch cast iron cooking surface holds up to 23 burgers
- Includes a 165-square-inch warming rack for indirect cooking
- Cart features tubular steel frame and rubber wheels for mobility
- Equipped with a heat gauge and easy-dump ash pan
- Weighs 90 pounds, making it heavier than ceramic alternatives
- 20-inch diameter provides less cooking space than 24-inch models
- Steel body requires seasoning to prevent rust over time
- You want a kamado style that is durable and steel-built
- You need a grill with a dedicated warming rack
- You prefer a cart-based design for easier movement
- You prefer ceramic construction for superior heat retention
- You need more than 306 square inches of primary cooking space
- You want a lighter grill that is easy to relocate
Verdict: Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado fits buyers who want a steel kamado with a warming rack and cart mobility. It is a solid choice for those prioritizing durability and heat retention over ceramic aesthetics.
Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill
Best for: versatile charcoal and propane cooking
- Cooking Area
- 870 sq. in.
- Grate Material
- Porcelain-coated cast iron
- Ash Management
- EasyDump Ash Pan
- Fuel
- Charcoal
- Features
- Offset Smoker
- Use
- Grilling, Smoker
This Char-Griller combo unit offers 870 square inches of cooking space and 24,000 BTU gas power. It combines charcoal and propane fuels with an offset smoker feature. The design includes dual temperature gauges and an EasyDump ash pan. It suits you if you want versatile cooking options without switching equipment. The unit measures 53.9 inches in length and weighs 116 pounds.
- 870 sq. in. total cooking space
- 24,000 BTU gas output
- Dual charcoal and propane fuels
- Offset smoker feature
- 116 pounds weight
- 24,000 BTU gas power
- 870 sq. in. cooking area
- You want to use both charcoal and propane
- You need an offset smoker for low-and-slow cooking
- You have space for a 53.9-inch long unit
- You prefer a pure ceramic kamado design
- You want a lighter grill under 100 pounds
- You need more than 24,000 BTU gas power
Verdict: Char-Griller Dual-Fuel 24k BTU Grill fits you if you value fuel versatility and smoker functionality over the traditional ceramic kamado experience found in other list options.
Bestfire 63-Inch Charcoal Grill Smoker
Best for: large gatherings with integrated storage
- Grate Material
- Enamel-coated
- Adjustable Charcoal Tray
- Manual crank handles
- Fuel
- Charcoal
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Storage Cabinet, Wheels, Side Shelves
- Use
- Grilling, Smoker
- Dimensions
- 21.7 × 41.3 × 13.8 inches
This oversized charcoal grill offers a large cooking footprint for feeding crowds. It includes a dedicated storage cabinet and two foldable side tables for organized prep. The dual independent lifting charcoal trays allow precise heat adjustment for searing or smoking. Weighing 79.4 pounds, it provides stability while moving on locking casters. It suits those who want a complete, mobile outdoor cooking station with ample storage.
- 63-inch width provides extra large capacity for 15+ people
- Includes exclusive cabinet-style storage for charcoal and tools
- Dual independent lifting charcoal trays for precise heat control
- Equipped with 4 locking casters for easy mobility
- Heavier build at 79.4 pounds compared to standard grills
- Height is only 13.8 inches, limiting standing comfort
- Width is 41.3 inches, requiring significant footprint space
- You need a dedicated storage cabinet for grilling supplies
- You regularly cook for large groups of 15 or more
- You want a mobile grill with locking casters
- You have limited patio space for a 63-inch unit
- You prefer a compact grill under 40 inches wide
- You need a ceramic kamado style smoker
Verdict: Bestfire 63" Charcoal Grill with Cabinet is ideal for cooks who prioritize storage and capacity over compact design. It fits buyers who need a stable, mobile station for large gatherings.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Kamado Joe Big Joe I 24-Inch Ceramic Grill | Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-Inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill | London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill | Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Grill | Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado | Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill | Bestfire 63-Inch Charcoal Grill Smoker |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 450 sq. in. | 250 Cooking Square Inches | – | 445 sq. in. | 445 sq. in. | 870 sq. in. | – |
| Grill Style | Kamado | – | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | – | – |
| Grate Diameter | – | – | 13.2 in | 20 in | – | – | – |
| Grate Material | Stainless steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Cast iron | Cast iron | Porcelain-coated cast iron | Enamel-coated |
| Body Material | Ceramic | Ceramic | Ceramic | Triple-wall insulated steel | Triple-wall insulated steel | – | – |
| Adjustable Charcoal Tray | – | – | – | – | – | – | Manual crank handles |
| Ash Management | Slide-out ash drawer | – | – | – | EasyDump ash pan | EasyDump Ash Pan | – |
| Fuel | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal |
| Smoker Style | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | – | – |
| Features | Offset Smoker, Cart, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates | Offset Smoker, Cart, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates | Offset Smoker, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates | Offset Smoker, Cast Iron Grates, Cart | Offset Smoker, Cast Iron Grates | Offset Smoker | Offset Smoker, Storage Cabinet, Wheels, Side Shelves |
| Grill Type | – | – | – | – | – | – | Cabinet |
| Use | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker |
| Color | Blaze Red | Red | Green | Sapphire Blue | Black | Black | The Big Charcoal Pit |
| Material | Ceramic | Ceramic | Ceramic | – | – | – | – |
| Shape | Square | Square | – | – | – | Square | – |
| Dimensions | 18 × 18.1 × 54 inches | 18 × 18.1 × 36 inches | 20.9 × 36.6 × 40.6 inches | 31 × 45 × 47 inches | 45.2 × 31.3 × 47.4 inches | 53.9 × 26.2 × 46.9 inches | 21.7 × 41.3 × 13.8 inches |
| Weight | 353 pounds | 232 pounds | 110 pounds | 109 pounds | 90 pounds | 116 pounds | 79.4 pounds |
| Size | 24 inch | 18 inch | – | – | Full Size | – | – |
| Model | BJ24RH | KJ23RHC | LSKMD-0080GR | E56520 | 6719 | E5030 | BFT009-Best |
Frequently asked questions
What is the lightest kamado alternative to the Big Joe I?
The London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill is the lightest option at 110 pounds. It is significantly lighter than the 353-pound Big Joe I, making it easier to move. The unit measures 20.9 inches in length and 36.6 inches in width, fitting well on smaller patios.
Which steel kamado offers the most prep space?
The Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Grill provides extensive prep space with a width of 45 inches. It weighs 109 pounds, which is much lighter than the ceramic Big Joe I. This steel model includes a cart and offset smoker for durable, high-capacity cooking.
Can I get a kamado with a built-in storage cabinet?
Yes, the Bestfire 63-Inch Charcoal Grill Smoker includes a dedicated storage cabinet. It is designed for large gatherings and offers integrated storage for tools. The unit weighs 79.4 pounds and features wheels for mobility, differing from the stationary cart setups of other kamado options.
Is there a dual-fuel option that replaces charcoal-only grills?
The Char-Griller Dual-Fuel Gas and Charcoal Grill allows you to switch between propane and charcoal. It weighs 116 pounds and measures 53.9 inches in length. This versatility suits cooks who want smoker functionality without being limited to a single fuel type like the Big Joe I.
What is the smallest ceramic kamado available as an alternative?
The London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill is the smallest ceramic option listed. It features a 15-inch cooking diameter and weighs 110 pounds. This compact size is ideal for couples or small families who need a stable, space-saving charcoal grill with wide temperature control.
Do any alternatives include stainless steel grates?
Both the Kamado Joe Classic Joe II and the London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill include stainless steel grates. These materials resist rust and provide even heat distribution. The Big Joe I also features stainless steel grates, ensuring consistent performance across these ceramic models.
Which option is best for those who want a warming rack?
The Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado (model 6719) includes a warming rack for flexible cooking zones. It weighs 90 pounds and stands 47.4 inches tall. This steel kamado offers durability and heat retention, making it a solid choice for cooks who need extra space for keeping food warm.
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.
