Primo Grills Primo Oval XL 400 Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The Primo Oval XL 400 Ceramic Grill offers a large, stable cooking platform for serious outdoor cooks. If you are looking for primo grills primo oval xl 400 alternatives, this guide compares seven similar picks. The original model excels at heat retention and versatile cooking methods. Its patented oval shape and premium-grade ceramics support grilling, smoking, roasting, and baking. You get stainless steel grates and a substantial 250-pound build. This setup prioritizes performance over portability.
You might want a different unit if you need a smaller footprint or a different material. Some buyers prefer the precise temperature control of a square kamado design. Others may want a lighter steel construction for easier mobility. The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specs overlap with the original. We compared weight, dimensions, and cooking features to find the best matches. This list helps you find a grill that fits your specific space and cooking style without compromising on core functionality.
How the Alternatives Compare
Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-Inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe II uses a square ceramic body instead of the Primo’s oval design. Its cooking area is 18.1 by 18 inches, which is smaller than the Primo’s 30 by 38 inch footprint. You gain a dedicated offset smoker feature and side shelves, adding convenience for complex cooks. The unit sits on a cart and weighs 232 pounds, making it slightly lighter than the Primo’s 250 pounds. If you need precise airflow control and extra prep space, this sturdy cart setup fits your needs. You trade some total cooking surface area for enhanced versatility and a more compact square profile.
Kamado Joe Big Joe I 24-Inch Ceramic Grill
The Kamado Joe Big Joe I offers a much larger cooking capacity than the Primo Oval XL 400. While the Primo measures 30 by 38 inches, the Big Joe features a 24-inch ceramic body on a tall cart. It weighs 353 pounds, significantly heavier than the Primo, requiring a sturdy floor. Like the Primo, it uses premium ceramic and includes stainless steel grates and an offset smoker. You get superior heat retention and a massive cooking platform for large batches. This pick is best if you have ample outdoor space and prioritize maximum capacity over the Primo’s more manageable oval shape and lower weight.
Firepit Nation Primo Oval Large 300
The Firepit Nation Primo Oval Large 300 provides a similar oval ceramic design but in a more compact size. It measures 30 by 30 inches and stands 24 inches tall, making it shorter and narrower than the Primo’s 30 by 38 inch build. It weighs 152 pounds, which is 98 pounds lighter than the Primo. This makes it easier to move on patios or decks. It retains the oval shape and stainless steel grates for versatile cooking. If you have limited space or need a lighter unit that still offers ceramic heat retention, this smaller oval model is a practical alternative to the larger XL 400.
London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill
The London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill is a compact option for small outdoor areas. It features a 20.9 by 36.6 inch footprint and weighs only 110 pounds, making it much lighter and more portable than the 250-pound Primo. It includes stainless steel grates and an offset smoker, similar to the Primo’s versatile setup. However, the cooking area is significantly smaller. You sacrifice the Primo’s large 30 by 38 inch platform for mobility and a smaller footprint. This grill suits couples or those with small patios who value easy movement over the capacity and stability of the larger Primo model.
Weber Summit Kamado E6 24-Inch
The Weber Summit Kamado E6 uses steel construction instead of the ceramic material found in the Primo. It weighs 132 pounds, which is 118 pounds lighter than the Primo. The unit measures 30.6 by 36.8 inches, offering a similar surface area to the Primo’s 30 by 38 inch build. Steel heats up faster than ceramic, providing a quicker response for searing. You give up the superior heat retention and insulation of the Primo’s premium ceramics. This pick is ideal if you prioritize fast heat response and lighter weight over the long-term thermal stability and traditional ceramic build of the Primo Oval XL 400.
Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado
The Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado features a steel body and cast iron grates, differing from the Primo’s ceramic and stainless steel setup. It weighs just 90 pounds, making it the lightest option here and significantly lighter than the 250-pound Primo. It includes an offset smoker and sits on a mobile cart. The footprint is 31.3 by 45.2 inches, which is longer than the Primo’s 38-inch length. You trade the Primo’s ceramic heat retention for a durable steel construction and cast iron grates. This model suits buyers who want a lightweight, mobile steel kamado with cast iron durability rather than ceramic insulation.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Primo Oval XL 400 Ceramic Grill Best overall | Large capacity smoking and grilling | |
| 2 | Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-Inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill Best red | Precise temperature control in a sturdy cart setup | |
| 3 | Kamado Joe Big Joe I 24-Inch Ceramic Grill Best premium | Large capacity ceramic grilling and smoking | |
| 4 | Firepit Nation Primo Oval Large 300 Best budget | smaller patios needing versatile ceramic cooking | |
| 5 | London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill Also great | small patios and couples | |
| 6 | Weber Summit Kamado E6 24-Inch Also great | Large groups needing fast heat response | |
| 7 | Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado Best cast iron grates | steel kamado users wanting cast iron grates |
Primo Oval XL 400 Ceramic Grill
Best for: Large capacity smoking and grilling
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Material
- Stainless Steel
- Body Material
- Ceramic
- Features
- Stainless Steel Grates
- Use
- Grilling
- Color
- Black
The Primo Oval XL 400 is a 250-pound ceramic kamado grill designed for high-heat cooking. Its patented oval shape measures 38 by 30 inches, offering a large cooking footprint. The unit includes stainless steel grates and uses lump charcoal only. This heavy, durable build suits those who want a dedicated outdoor kitchen centerpiece for smoking and roasting.
- Patented oval shape for versatile cooking zones
- Premium-grade ceramic construction for heat retention
- Includes stainless steel grates for durability
- Functions as a grill, oven, roaster, or smoker
- Weighs 250 pounds, making it difficult to move
- Requires lump charcoal only, limiting fuel options
- Oval footprint may not fit standard round grill covers
- You have space for a large, heavy outdoor appliance
- You prefer the even heat distribution of an oval cooking surface
- You want a single unit that handles grilling, smoking, and roasting
- You need a portable grill for camping or tailgating
- You prefer using briquettes or gas instead of lump charcoal
- You have limited patio space for a 38-inch long unit
Verdict: Primo Oval XL 400 Ceramic Grill offers a massive, stable cooking platform for serious outdoor cooks. It fits buyers who prioritize heat retention and versatile cooking methods over portability.
Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-Inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill
Best for: Precise temperature control in a sturdy cart setup
- 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 in red. It weighs 232 pounds and sits on a cast iron cart with locking wheels. The design includes side shelves and stainless steel grates. You get an air lift hinge for easy dome handling and a top vent for precise temperature control. This setup suits those who want a durable, mid-sized cooker for both grilling and smoking.
- 18-inch cooking diameter provides ample space for most meals
- Air lift hinge reduces dome weight for single-finger operation
- Kontrol Tower top vent manages airflow from 225F to 750F
- Includes a sturdy cast iron cart with locking wheels
- 18-inch size is smaller than the 24-inch Big Joe Series I
- 232-pound weight makes it heavier than many portable alternatives
- Square shape offers less round cooking surface area than oval models
- You want a durable ceramic cooker that handles both smoking and searing
- You prefer a stable cart setup with locking wheels for safety
- You value precise temperature control with a top vent system
- You need a larger cooking surface than 18 inches offers
- You want a lighter grill that is easier to move around
- You prefer an oval shape for more flexible cooking arrangements
Verdict: Kamado Joe 18-inch Ceramic Kamado delivers reliable heat management and sturdy construction for serious cooks. It fits buyers who prioritize durability and precise airflow control over maximum cooking space.
Kamado Joe Big Joe I 24-Inch Ceramic Grill
Best for: Large capacity ceramic grilling 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
This 24-inch ceramic kamado grill sits on a heavy cart with side shelves. It weighs 353 pounds and stands 54 inches tall. The Divide & Conquer cooking system allows multi-level cooking. You get stainless steel grates and a patented ash drawer for easy cleanup. It handles temperatures from 225°F to 750°F. This unit suits you if you want a large, stable cooking platform with precise airflow control.
- 24-inch ceramic cooking chamber provides ample space
- Divide & Conquer multi-level cooking system included
- Patented slide-out ash drawer simplifies cleanup
- Cast iron top vent ensures precise airflow management
- Includes stainless steel cooking grates and thermometer
- Weighs 353 pounds, making it much heavier than compact alternatives
- Stands 54 inches tall, requiring significant vertical clearance
- 24-inch diameter is larger than the 18-inch or 20-inch models on this list
- You need a large cooking area for big batches
- You want a permanent cart with side shelves
- You prefer ceramic heat retention and retention
- You have limited patio space or low clearance
- You cannot lift or move 353 pounds
- You prefer a smaller, more portable grill
Verdict: Kamado Joe Big Joe 24-inch Ceramic Grill fits you if you have the space for a large, heavy-duty unit and want precise temperature control for both smoking and searing.
Firepit Nation Primo Oval Large 300
Best for: smaller patios needing versatile ceramic cooking
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Material
- Stainless Steel
- Body Material
- Ceramic
- Features
- Stainless Steel Grates
- Use
- Grilling
- Color
- Black
This Firepit Nation Primo Oval Large 300 is a ceramic kamado grill measuring 30 by 30 inches with a height of 24 inches. It weighs 152 pounds and features stainless steel grates. The patented oval shape allows you to use it as a grill, oven, roaster, or smoker. It runs on lump charcoal only. This compact model suits those needing a smaller footprint than the XL 400.
- 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 competitors
- Smaller cooking footprint than the 400 or Big Joe models
- Requires lump charcoal only, limiting fuel flexibility
- You want a ceramic kamado with a smaller footprint
- You prefer the versatility of an oval cooking surface
- You have space for a 30-inch wide grill
- You need a larger cooking capacity than the Large offers
- You prefer using briquettes or pellets instead of lump charcoal
- You want a lighter grill that is easier to move
Verdict: Firepit Nation Oval Large 300 fits buyers who need a durable ceramic kamado with a compact 30-inch footprint. It is ideal for smaller patios or decks where space is limited but versatility is key.
London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill
Best for: small patios and couples
- 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
This 15-inch ceramic kamado grill offers versatile cooking from smoking to searing. It features a 180°F to 750°F temperature range and locking casters for mobility. The foldable side shelves and stainless steel grates add convenience. Weighing 110 pounds, it provides stability. You will find this compact unit suitable for smaller patios or couples who need efficient heat distribution and easy repositioning.
- Locking casters for secure mobility
- Foldable side shelves for prep space
- 180°F to 750°F temperature range
- Thick ceramic wall for insulation
- 15-inch diameter is smaller than other picks
- 110-pound weight requires effort to move
- Compact cooking grate limits batch size
- You have limited patio space
- You cook for two to four people
- You need a mobile grill for flexible placement
- You regularly host large gatherings
- You prefer a larger cooking surface
- You want a heavier, stationary unit
Verdict: London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill fits buyers with small outdoor areas who value mobility and compact efficiency over maximum cooking capacity.
Weber Summit Kamado E6 24-Inch
Best for: Large groups needing fast heat response
- Grill Style
- Kamado
- Grate Diameter
- 24 in
- Body Material
- Porcelain-enameled steel
- Ash Management
- One-Touch cleaning system
- Fuel
- Charcoal
- Use
- Grilling
The Weber Summit E6 is a 24-inch charcoal kamado built with dual-walled insulated steel. Its 24-inch cooking area supports two-zone setups for large groups. The RapidFire damper allows quick heat adjustments, while the adjustable grate handles both smoking and searing. At 132 pounds, this heavy unit suits patios with stable surfaces. It is a solid choice if you prefer steel durability over ceramic.
- Dual-walled insulation for precise temperature control
- 24-inch cooking area for large crowds
- RapidFire lid damper boosts airflow for quick heating
- Adjustable grate for low smoking or high searing
- 132-pound weight requires a sturdy surface
- Steel construction may rust if not maintained
- Porcelain-enameled finish chips if struck hard
- You want a steel kamado for high heat
- You need a 24-inch cooking surface
- You value rapid temperature changes
- You prefer lightweight ceramic grills
- You have limited patio space
- You want a smaller cooking area
Verdict: Weber Summit E6 24-Inch Steel Kamado offers robust steel construction and a large 24-inch cooking area. It fits buyers who prioritize heavy-duty durability and fast heat response over traditional ceramic builds.
Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado
Best for: steel kamado users wanting cast iron grates
- 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 features triple-wall insulated steel construction to retain heat efficiently. It offers 306 square inches of primary cast iron cooking space plus a 165-square-inch warming rack. The unit weighs 90 pounds and includes a cart with rubber wheels. You get a locking lid, folding shelves, and a heat gauge. It is designed for charcoal grilling and smoking.
- Triple-wall insulated steel body for heat retention
- Cast iron grates hold up to 23 burgers
- Includes 165-square-inch warming rack
- Cart has rubber wheels for mobility
- Weighs 90 pounds, making it heavier than many ceramic competitors
- 306-square-inch primary cooking area is smaller than larger oval models
- Steel construction may not match the insulation efficiency of double-walled ceramic designs
- You want cast iron grates for searing
- You need a steel kamado that is mobile on a cart
- You prefer triple-wall insulation for fuel efficiency
- You require a large oval cooking surface
- You prefer ceramic construction for superior heat retention
- You need stainless steel grates instead of cast iron
Verdict: Char-Griller AKORN Kamado provides a robust steel kamado experience with cast iron grates. It fits buyers who prioritize durable steel construction and mobile cart design over ceramic insulation.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Primo Oval XL 400 Ceramic Grill | Kamado Joe Classic Joe II 18-Inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill | Kamado Joe Big Joe I 24-Inch Ceramic Grill | Firepit Nation Primo Oval Large 300 | London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill | Weber Summit Kamado E6 24-Inch | Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | – | 250 Cooking Square Inches | 450 sq. in. | – | – | – | 445 sq. in. |
| Grill Style | Kamado | – | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado |
| Grate Diameter | – | – | – | – | 13.2 in | 24 in | – |
| Grate Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | – | Cast iron |
| Body Material | Ceramic | Ceramic | Ceramic | Ceramic | Ceramic | Porcelain-enameled steel | Triple-wall insulated steel |
| Ash Management | – | – | Slide-out ash drawer | – | – | One-Touch cleaning system | EasyDump ash pan |
| Fuel | – | Charcoal | Charcoal | – | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal |
| Smoker Style | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado | Kamado |
| Features | Stainless Steel Grates | Offset Smoker, Cart, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates | Offset Smoker, Cart, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates | Stainless Steel Grates | Offset Smoker, Side Shelves, Stainless Steel Grates | – | Offset Smoker, Cast Iron Grates |
| Use | Grilling | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling | Grilling, Smoker | Grilling | Grilling, Smoker |
| Color | Black | Red | Blaze Red | Black | Green | Black | Black |
| Material | Ceramic | Ceramic | Ceramic | Ceramic | Ceramic | – | – |
| Shape | – | Square | Square | – | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 38 × 30 × 30 inches | 18 × 18.1 × 36 inches | 18 × 18.1 × 54 inches | 30 × 30 × 24 inches | 20.9 × 36.6 × 40.6 inches | 30.6 × 36.8 × 29.3 inches | 45.2 × 31.3 × 47.4 inches |
| Weight | 250 pounds | 232 pounds | 353 pounds | 152 pounds | 110 pounds | 132 pounds | 90 pounds |
| Model | PGCXLH | KJ23RHC | BJ24RH | PGCLGH | LSKMD-0080GR | 18201001 | 6719 |
| Size | – | 18 inch | 24 inch | – | – | 24 inches x 24 inches x 24 inches | Full Size |
Frequently asked questions
Which Primo Oval XL 400 alternative is best for small patios?
The Firepit Nation Primo Oval Large 300 is ideal for smaller spaces. It features a compact 30 by 30 inch footprint and weighs 152 pounds. This ceramic kamado fits buyers who need versatile cooking without a large footprint. It offers stainless steel grates and a black finish for durable outdoor use.
How does the Kamado Joe Big Joe II compare in size?
The Kamado Joe Big Joe II is significantly larger than the Primo Oval XL 400. It stands 54 inches tall and weighs 353 pounds. The cooking area measures 18.1 by 18 inches. This heavy-duty unit suits buyers with ample space who prioritize precise temperature control for both smoking and searing.
Is there a lighter ceramic kamado option available?
Yes, the London Sunshine 15-inch Ceramic Kamado Grill is a lighter choice. It weighs only 110 pounds and measures 20.9 by 36.6 inches. This green ceramic unit fits buyers with small outdoor areas who value mobility. It includes side shelves and stainless steel grates for efficient grilling and smoking.
Which alternative offers cast iron grates for better searing?
The Char-Griller AKORN 20-Inch Kamado provides cast iron grates. It weighs 90 pounds and features a steel construction with a mobile cart design. This black grill fits buyers who prioritize durable steel over ceramic insulation. It includes an offset smoker for versatile cooking methods in a compact footprint.
What is the best red ceramic kamado on the list?
The Kamado Joe Classic Joe II is the best red option. It features a square ceramic body and weighs 232 pounds. The unit stands 36 inches tall with a 18.1 by 18 inch cooking area. It includes a cart, side shelves, and stainless steel grates for precise airflow control.
Does the Weber Summit Kamado use ceramic or steel?
The Weber Summit Kamado E6 uses robust steel construction instead of ceramic. It weighs 132 pounds and measures 30.6 by 36.8 inches. This black grill offers a large 24-inch cooking area. It fits buyers who prioritize heavy-duty durability and fast heat response over traditional ceramic builds.
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.
