Get the most out of your Kamado charcoal grills – temperature control, multiple cooking options, versatility, durability, and size. Find out which grills made it to the top in 2023’s shopping guide!
Features To Look For In The Best Kamado Charcoal Grills
- Temperature Control – Look for grills with reliable temperature control settings, as this allows you to cook at different temperatures and easily adjust it as needed.
- Multiple Cooking Options – Kamado charcoal grills allow for multiple types of cooking such as smoking, baking, and even pizza-making! Make sure your grill has multiple options so that you can take advantage of all the culinary possibilities.
- Versatility – A good kamado charcoal grill should have versatility so that it can be used both indoors and outdoors. This way, you won’t be limited on when and where you can use your grill.
- Durability – Most Kamado grills are thick-walled, ceramic cookers designed to last a long time and withstand extreme temperatures without cracking or breaking down. Choose one made with durable materials that will stand up to the test of time.
- Size – Depending on how many people you plan to feed, consider whether a bigger or smaller size would work better for your needs. Bigger sizes can often accommodate multiple layers which allow for more efficient cooking over long periods of time if needed.
Top-list Best Kamado Charcoal Grills
✔ Durable steel construction built to last;
✔ Adjustable top and bottom dampers;
✔ Triple-walled insulation retains heat;
✔ Easy dump ash pan for quick and easy clean-ups;
✔ Removable Stainless Steel Grill warming rack;
✔ Stainless Steel BBQ heat gauge;
✔ Cast iron cooking grates;
✔ Air lift hinge;
✔ Slide-out ash drawer;
✔ 2-tier divide & conquer;
✔ Fiberglass mesh gasket;
✔ Kontrol tower top vent;
✔ Amp firebox;
✔ Cast Iron Grates;
✔ Easy Dump Ash Pan;
✔ Dual Dampers;
✔ Easy Lift Handles;
✔ Durable steel construction built to last;
✔ Adjustable top and bottom dampers;
✔ Triple-walled insulation retains heat;
✔ Easy dump ash pan for quick and easy clean-ups;
✔ Removable Stainless Steel Grill warming rack;
✔ Stainless Steel BBQ heat gauge;
✔ Cast iron cooking grates;
✔ Air lift hinge;
✔ Slide-out ash drawer;
✔ 2-tier divide & conquer;
✔ Fiberglass mesh gasket;
✔ Kontrol tower top vent;
✔ Amp firebox;
✔ Cast Iron Grates;
✔ Easy Dump Ash Pan;
✔ Dual Dampers;
✔ Easy Lift Handles;
Best Kamado charcoal grill for the money
Advantage
- Easy to assemble;
- Solid Steel Construction;
- Removable warming rack;
- Adjustable Top Damper;
- Large Locking Wheels;
- Easy to clean;
Disadvantage
- The lid is quite heavy;
- Big wheels are a little flimsy;
Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill FAQ
Problem: Smoking meat can be a difficult and unpredictable process.
It's hard to know what temperature to smoke your meat at, how long to smoke it for, and whether or not the wood you're using is going to give your meat the flavor you're looking for.
Solution: The Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill solves all of these problems. With its easy-to-use temperature controls, automatic auger system, and porcelain-coated cooking grate, this grill makes smoking meat easier than ever before. Plus, with the included smoke stone and pitmaster 101 guides, you'll be able to smoke your food like a pro.
Problem: Trying to grill or smoke meat can be difficult, especially if you're not sure how to add coals.
It's hard to get the perfect cook on your meat when you're not sure how to add coals, and sometimes the heat can be too intense or not intense enough.
Solution: The Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill is the perfect smoker for anyone who wants an easy grilling experience. This grill comes with a special access door that allows you to easily add more charcoal while your food is cooking, so you can always maintain the perfect temperature.
Problem: How do you put down the side tables?
Just follow these simple instructions and you'll be grilling up a storm in no time!
Solution: Push the side tables inward while they are horizontal. They will release from the holding pins when they are in the correct position. Then, pull them down and tilt them to the side.
Is the Akorn Kamado really worth getting? I’m going to tell you all about it in this video.
You know what they say about guys like us, right? We’re always looking for ways to take our barbecue up a notch. And that’s why I’m here today with the Akorn Kamado cooker – because it can help you do just that.
A three-year ownership test will show me whether or not this is someone who’ll be able to use my advice wisely and get serious results from their grill game in no time flat.
So, if you’re a recent follower of mine then this isn’t my only Akorn grill (and it’s not even close). My original one is still in the garage for convenience’s sake. This grill has been around for more than two years, while my old one in the garage is three.
So I have been cooking on these Akorn Kamado cookers for a little over three years now and it is my opinion that they are the best in their class. At that time, I had done some cooking on these cookers but nothing like what we’re capable of now.
The Akorn Kamado is an excellent choice for any grill lover
I’m confident that you’ll love using your new oven, and it will give all of the food on your barbeque such amazing flavor.
I hope this review has been helpful in finding out if the product suits what’s important to you.
The durability of these things is unparalleled. They’re built outta steel and the charcoal coating gives them Theil so they can easily retain heat, which makes for a more successful cooking experience. Once it comes up to temperature, usually sits there and stays at that high level for an extended period of time without any changes or fluctuations in heat levels – but what the Akorn did was had double-wall steel set up which gave us both insulations from colder elements outside as well has retained more warmth within.
If you don’t believe me, go to little broken Kamado grills and see pictures. That’ll make your heartbreak when it sinks in how much those cookers cost.
What do you think about the Akorn? I know that some people will come in here and say it’s one of their downfalls, but what are your thoughts on this product. The grill is well-insulated, so it doesn’t like running at a really low temperature. I can’t do a review of the Akorn without mentioning my experiences with it. The best way I’ve found for running this Akorn is by using a water pan on top of the spoken stone. They don’t like handling 225 degrees, but with some extra cooling, it can handle 235 comfortably.
I found that by adapting my cooking style to this new cooker, I could get better results with less work
As I owned a Char-Griller E16620, cooking at 275 degrees became a habit of mine. But why 275? Well, I find that it’s pretty easy to get this cooker up at 250 degrees being 25 degrees hotter than what we know will be the typical temperature for us. It gives me an extra margin of safety and also makes things just a little safer.
The number one question I get asked now is “how do these cookers hold up over time”. In my experience, they’re pretty sturdy and can take some abuse.
This grill has been through it all. I’ve taken my back porch to the front yard with this baby and even gone into competition cooking at one point. I would never know that this is what happened if you only saw the outside appearance of things.
The grill’s not brand new in my first review, but I might have said that you know to get the cost down it was obvious we weren’t using premium parts. And when I said this both then and now what exactly did mean? That is because instead of investing money into a stainless steel or other materials which would last longer over time – like clockwork-my initial belief turned out wrong! These grills have exceeded all expectations as far durability goes; they are also easy on your wallet considering how well built these things seem from every angle.
I’m not sure if I am the average person who uses their cookers, but it’s likely that my usage rate is greater than most. I love my cookers. I take care of them, and use them way more than the other person does – but that’s just me.
These cookers have been living in the garage or gray one for their first year, and they’re both having no problems with rust. With how this ends up being so honest. The grill’s neat, I don’t know if it’s enabled but the outside shines up brand new with just a little Windex.
I’ve seen people try to say that these will rust out and I’m sure if you leave anything out in the weather long enough, it’s possible for corrosion or rusting.
I’ve used three different types of cookers in the last three years and my experience with them has been very positive.
But what about accessories?
They’re not like other cookers! The Kamado cooker is a little different. You can’t just drill holes in it and modify as much of the surface area with accessory pieces, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider adding accessories to your collection anyway. The choices for a BBQ cooker are endless, which is why you have to find the perfect fit.
Fortunately, the Char-Grill actually includes accessories for you and then also sells other things that would be needed. The Akorn boasts an expansion rack that allows you to cook more than just one course at a time. I actually created a video on my YouTube channel demonstrating how many dishes can fit in this cooker, and even served up a three-course meal from just one of these bad boys.
The best part about these grates?
They’re both bulletproof and cast iron. These buns are great. I ran so much sticky barbecue sauce over them. And when they get bad, all I need to do is recover them normally and their new. Or if I have to, the fire will bring them back and fully re-season these great cast-iron grates. Every time they come in with a burnt flavor from my old grill; it’s amazing what those pesky things can do.
The cooking stone is the key to success for any Kamado owner. Whether you’re going indirect or direct, this thing will take care of your food and make sure that it’s cooked perfectly every time. This porous surface provides even heat distribution and helps prevent food from drying out while it cooks, which means that you’ll be able to enjoy your meal without sacrificing taste.
The cooking stone is a great way to add more flavor and excitement to your kitchen. With these stones, you can achieve all of the benefits that come with using traditional cookware without having to spend too much money on it.
Third-party accessories are available for the Charle. For instance, you know I have a barbecue guru on my Akorn unit and that plate just replaces your lower vent cover with no problem. It’s so easy when all of this cooking equipment works together as one team.
We’ll give you an easy trick to get the most out of your Akorn grill, and I’m pretty sure this applies to any Kamado cooker. Let it come up naturally before turning on those fans. The insulated construction of these cookers makes them very good at holding temperature. If you put a power draft system on it and just walk away, then come back hours later to find your food is burnt because the unit has been overheating all this time.
Let’s talk about versatility
When I first reviewed this product, one of the things that impressed me most about it was how versatile and easy to use its features were. The few short cooks I did back in my review period still stand as some of my favorite aspects now.
What do you mean by “long cook“? Well, not only did we get into smoking with our Kamados – I even tried baking on occasion too (although nothing compares). I wanted to see how the Akorn performed under different cooking conditions so I tried doing every style of food that it was designed for in about a month or two.
It’s been three years since I first used the Akorn, but now not only do they grow better than ever before; my experience as a barbecue chef has allowed me to try out new cooking styles and test them on this rugged piece of equipment. This cooker is the best I’ve ever used. It can get hot and fast, just like you want for steak or wings but also low and slow with pork butt that will melt in your mouth. Over three years of testing every type there was out there – I know what works well when it comes down to longevity so trust me on this one.
There are probably some out there who want to say: well, a pillow cooker does absolutely everything and it’s so easy. I’ll tell you once you add power draft fan – if that’s what your cooking with then set them and forget full on.
The Akorn is a great smoker and will give you the quality smoking experience that many people prefer over pellet burners. This cooker is so for you guys, I pull it out all the time to do my cooks on just because any cook can be done in such an easy way and with great results.
There are so many times when I’m trying to shoot a video and work or family life gets in the way. But now with Akorn, it’s easier than ever because all you have to do is set up your cook session on one device and then let that run while doing something else. If versatility is what you’re after, there’s no better answer than the Akorn. It can handle anything from cooking your favorite procedural dish to making desserts and even warming up some leftover chicken for dinner.
Well, I’m more and more impressed by just what this thing does. Just how well it’s held up over time and the number of times that now want to go use it which is really brought us today in the end.
When you’re going to buy a new cooker, the two things that matter most are how much fun it will be and what types of experiences can I have with this. And two: is it worth spending more money now or can I get the same result with less cost later on down the track. The cool factor is the third value that I should consider when buying a grill. It’s important to find something with which you are mutually satisfied and enjoy doing. The Char-Griller is a great grill, but it’s not cheap. You can find several online deals right now that will save you some money.
The best deals for a good quality Kamado are at Lowe’s or Walmart. After that, you’ll have to go up in price and size before finding something comparable to Akorn – but it may not be as big of an investment either.
I am often asked whether this cooker is really worth it. People want to know if they should spend their money on the barbecue, and can you really smoke food using a smoker like this? Is that what it’s designed for – smoking meat or fish at home in your own backyard BBQ-becue restaurant? Yes, this thing is totally worth it!
I never finished under third place in the competition. If you take care of this cooker, running chicken on it and by KCBS I guarantee that no rust will occur.
What’s not to love about this amazing cooker?
It can produce smoking hot temps, and the flavor is wonderful. You’ll be able to smoke any type of meat or fish with ease thanks in part to its great flexibility.
The grill is my favorite tool in the kitchen. I’ve never mastered cooking pizzas, but when it comes to grilling steaks and other meats for dinner parties or just Sunday lunch on a lazy summer’s day with friends – well let’s just say they know where we live. The Akorn has a ton of features for such an affordable price, and it’s really fun to experiment with different cooking methods on this device. The only downfall is that you need to learn how to manage your fire if there are any mistakes made in the kitchen.
It’s time to get serious about your cooking. The Akorn Junior is an excellent choice for those who want more than just a small kitchen appliance because this thing can really cook. So you’re thinking about getting an Akorn? You should know that the bigger your cooker, the more versatile it becomes. With two expansion packs and a few other mods, I can easily cook a lot of wings at once! What are some of your favorite things to do with this bad boy?
Best overall charcoal grill on 2022
The 18-inch Kamado charcoal grill is perfect for cooking up a variety of meats, vegetables, and snacks, while the cast iron cart with locking wheels ensures stability and safety. The Kamado Joe Classic II also features the revolutionary 2-Tier Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System, which allows you to cook different foods at different temperatures at the same time. With its superior performance and remarkable versatility, the Kamado Joe KJ23RHC Classic Joe II overall charcoal grill is a must-have for any Grill Master! The Kontrol Tower Top Vent provides perfectly smoked food every time, while the air lift hinge makes it easy to open and close the grill dome. The six-piece design of the AMP (Advanced Multi-Panel) FireBox also makes this grill incredibly efficient, meaning you'll use less charcoal and get perfectly cooked food every time. So if you're looking for a high-quality, durable and easy-to-use charcoal grill, the Kamado Joe KJ23RHC Classic Joe II is the perfect choice.
This is especially true for people who like to grill but don't want the hassle of constantly having to add coal or wood. Solution: The Kamado Joe KJ23RHC Classic Joe II Grill solves this problem with its easy-to-use design. The grill comes with a tool to lift the grate without burning or getting your hands dirty, and the grates are half circles so you can put the food on one side of the grill while adding coal to the other side.
Not all charcoal is created equal! Some charcoals are designed for quick-lighting, while others produce a long-lasting, low-smoke fire. Solution: Kamado Joe KJ23RHC Classic Joe II is the perfect grill for any grilling enthusiast. This charcoal grill uses an exclusive airflow system that ensures even heat distribution and consistent temperature control. The included Heat Deflector Plates allow you to cook using indirect heat, so you can smoke your favorite meats and vegetables with ease. This smoker is easy to use, and it can be used to smoke with wood, lump charcoal, standard briquettes, and other charcoal.
Who has time for that? You're busy enough as it is. Solution: The Kamado Joe KJ23RHC Classic Joe II is the solution to your problems. This charcoal grill can cook anything from pizzas and steaks to vegetables and fish, all with that delicious wood-fired flavor you love. Plus, it comes with an easy-to-use pizza stone for making perfect pizzas every time.
This little powerhouse is perfect for tailgating, camping, or just grilling in your own backyard. You'll love the convenience of the compact frame and easy-to-carry handles, not to mention the best in class features like the insulated design and locking lid that trap smoke, heat, and moisture for flavorful barbecue every time. So what are you waiting for? Get started with your next outdoor cooking adventure today with the Char-Griller AKORN Jr. portable kamado charcoal grill! Looking for a charcoal grill that's easy to use and clean? Look no further than the Char-Griller E06614 AKORN Jr. Kamado grill. This unit is made from heavy-gauge powder coated steel and features thick cast iron cooking grates for maximum durability and heat retention. The indexed adjustable dual dampers and thermometer make it easy to control the heat levels, while the removable Easy Dump Ash Pan makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, with a 155 square inch cooking area and precise temperature controls, you'll be able to sear steaks, smoke wings, or grill up to 8 burgers at once. Dimensions: 20L x 20W x 26H; 33 lbs.
It can be tough to find the right smoker that's not too big or too small. You also don't want to spend a fortune on one. Solution: The Char-Griller AKORN Jr. is the perfect smoker for those who don't have a lot of space. This portable smoker is lightweight and easy to set up, and it's affordable without sacrificing quality.
Not only do you have to find a spot in your yard that's big enough, but you also have to worry about getting the grill clean before it starts raining. Solution: It's small enough to fit on any patio or balcony and the manufacturer recommends setting up the grill on metal or concrete tables.
Smoking food is a great way to add flavor and juiciness, but it can be tricky to get the temperature just right. If you don't have a smoker, you're probably using your oven or grill, which can be difficult to regulate the temperature for smoking properly. Solution: The three tabs below the grilling grate allow you to place a smoking stone directly onto them. This is perfect if want an indirect heat source for your food since coals will be beneath it and can provide enough warmth without burning anything! Charcoal grills come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most common type is the barrel grill. This type of grill has a cylindrical shape and is made of steel or charcoal. It typically has two compartments – one for the charcoal and one for the food. Kamado grills are made of charcoal and have a domed shape. They are great for cooking at high temperatures and can hold heat well. Charcoal grills offer many benefits over gas grills, including improved flavor, better temperature control, and low-cost fuel efficiency. When used properly, charcoal grills can provide delicious results. If you are considering purchasing a Charcoal grill, it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making your decision. Charcoal grills can be a great addition to your outdoor cooking repertoire, but they also have some disadvantages that you should be aware of.
The Kamado Joe KJ23RHC Classic Joe II overall charcoal grill is perfect for grilling enthusiasts who want precision airflow management and consistent temperature control.
Kamado Joe KJ23RHC Classic Joe II FAQ
Problem: Most grills are difficult to use and can be a hassle to add coal or wood during cooking.
Problem: Using a charcoal grill can be tricky, and it's hard to know what kind of charcoal to use.
Problem: You love the taste of wood-fired pizza, but don't want to hassle with building a fire each time you want to make one.
Best portable Kamado charcoal grill for steaks
Char-Griller AKORN Jr. portable FAQ
Problem: You want to be able to smoke meat, but you don't have a lot of space.
Problem: You love grilled food, so you want to set it up on a plastic table?
Problem: Where should the smoker's stone be placed?
The benefits of using a charcoal grill
Another popular type of charcoal grill is the kamado grill.
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your charcoal grill:
Editor’s Choice: Top-list grills
About Author
Char-Griller E16620: How hot does it get on the outside?
The fan on my grill is so cool! It gets up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit, but since I always keep it below that temperature by opening both vents wide open and using some mindful grilling techniques with the top vent also fully opened (so no need for worrying about burning), then there are absolutely zero problems. In fact – you can even touch those outer walls without any worries at 300°F because of how well controlled this thing has been from day 1 when we first turned it ON
Does Kamado Joe KJ23RHC come with nest?
Comes with a stand which is more sturdy for me than the nest accessories found with other grills.
Kamado Joe KJ23RHC: Is it difficult to add coal or wood during cooking?
It is if you have the heat deflectors in. However, kamados are very efficient with charcoal. I have done 14-hour cooks only using about 30-40% of the charcoal. I space my wood chunks out to ensure consistent smoke during the cook.
What accessories are included with the Kamado Joe KJ23RHC?
Start grilling with this all-inclusive kit that includes an airlift hinges, an exclusive divide & conquer flexible cooking system and a patented no-rust rainproof control tower top vent. All of the essential items you need for your first time but charcoal!